U.S. patent application number 10/812677 was filed with the patent office on 2005-10-13 for frictional resistance exercise apparatus.
Invention is credited to Liester, Arvin Floyd.
Application Number | 20050227827 10/812677 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35055104 |
Filed Date | 2005-10-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050227827 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Liester, Arvin Floyd |
October 13, 2005 |
Frictional resistance exercise apparatus
Abstract
An exercise device adaptable for exercising that utilizes both a
weight and rope friction to provide load resistance is described.
Preferred embodiments of the exercise device are adapted for use in
conjunction with a doorway and an associated door. By selectively
wrapping a rope, which is connected to the weight on one end and a
grip on the other, around a cylindrical member, the effective load
experienced by a user pulling on the handle is multiplied many
times in excess of the weight's mass. By removably attaching the
exercise device to the door and the doorway, no additional
framework is required thereby making the device relatively
lightweight and compact.
Inventors: |
Liester, Arvin Floyd;
(Monument, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LEYENDECKER LEMIRE & DALEY, LLC
C/O PORTFOLIO IP P.O BOX 52057
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402
US
|
Family ID: |
35055104 |
Appl. No.: |
10/812677 |
Filed: |
March 30, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/93 ;
482/904 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/00069 20130101;
A63B 23/03508 20130101; A63B 21/018 20130101; A63B 21/4043
20151001; A63B 21/1654 20130101; A63B 23/03541 20130101; A63B 23/12
20130101; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B
21/1645 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/093 ;
482/904 |
International
Class: |
A63B 021/06; A63B
021/062; A63B 021/012 |
Claims
1. A frictional resistance exercise device comprising: a first
weight; a first rope having first and second ends, the first end
including a first hand grip and the second end having the weight
attached thereto; a first T-shaped cylindrical member with an
exterior surface around which the first rope is wrapped; and a
structural support to which the first T-shaped cylindrical member
is coupled.
2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first T-shaped
cylindrical member is rotatably coupled to the structural support,
and the exercise device further comprises a directional braking
mechanism adapted to (i) permit rotation of the first T-shaped
cylindrical member in a first rotational direction, and (ii) hinder
rotation of the first T-shaped cylindrical member in a second
rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.
3. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the directional braking
mechanism comprises a second rope wrapped around the first T-shaped
cylindrical member with a first end being coupled to the structural
member and a second end being coupled to the structural member by
way of an intervening elastic band.
4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first T-shaped
cylindrical member comprises copper.
5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the structural support
is adapted to be placed on a ground surface and further includes a
top surface adapted for a user to stand or lay thereon, and wherein
the exercise device further comprises (a) a second T-shaped
cylindrical member, the second T-shaped cylindrical member being
coupled with the structural member, (b) a second weight, and (c) a
second rope with first and second ends, the second rope being
wrapped around the second T-shaped cylindrical member, the first
end of the second rope including a second grip and the second end
of the second rope having the second weight attached thereto.
6. The exercise device of claim 5, further comprising one or more
door-mountable rope guides, each rope guide including (i) a slot
adapted to fit over a top edge of a door and (ii) and one of a rope
guide slot and pulley adapted to guide one of the first and second
ropes over the top edge of the door.
7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the structural support
comprises: (a) corresponding first and second doorway mounting
pieces, each doorway mounting piece including (i) a generally
planer portion having a cylindrical opening extending therethrough,
the cylindrical opening being adapted to receive an end of the
first T-shaped cylindrical member therein, (ii) a lipped portion
extending generally perpendicularly from at least one edge of the
planer portion and being adapted to rest upon a top edge of molding
surrounding a typical residential doorway; and (b) a connector
adapted to secure the corresponding first and second doorway
mounting pieces together.
8. The exercise device of claim 7, wherein the first T-shaped
cylindrical member is rotatably coupled to the structural support,
and further comprises a directional braking mechanism adapted to
(i) permit rotation of the first T-shaped cylindrical member in a
first rotational direction, and (ii) hinder rotation of the first
T-shaped cylindrical member in a second rotational direction
opposite the first rotational direction.
9. An exercise device comprising: a weight; a rope having first and
second ends, the first end including a first hand grip and the
second end having the weight attached thereto; a cylindrical member
with an exterior surface around which the rope is wrapped; and a
structural support, the structural support being coupled with the
cylindrical member and including one or more lips, the lips being
adapted to brace against molding surrounding a doorway to hold the
structural support in place generally at the top of a doorway.
10. The exercise device of claim 9, wherein the structural support
comprises first and second doorway mounting pieces, the first
doorway mounting piece being adapted to couple with doorway molding
along the top edge of one side of a doorway, and the second doorway
mounting piece being adapted to couple with doorway molding along
the top edge of another side of the doorway, each mounting piece
further adapted to couple with the cylindrical member with the
cylindrical member generally extending between the first and second
doorway mounting pieces.
11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the structural support
further comprises a connecting member, the connecting member
adapted to removably couple the first doorway mounting piece with
the second doorway mounting piece.
12. The exercise device of claim 11, where in the connecting member
comprises a threaded bolt and an associated nut.
13. The exercise device claim 9, wherein the weight comprises a
container filled with a weighty substance.
14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the weighty substance
comprises at least one of water, sand, stones, metal particles or
bars, and chain.
15. The exercise device claim 9, wherein the cylindrical member
comprises a T-shaped cylindrical member.
16. An exercise device comprising: first and second weights; first
and second ropes, each rope having first and second ends, the first
end including a first hand grip and the second end having one of
the first and second weights attached thereto; at least one
door-mountable rope guide including (i) a slot adapted to fit over
a top edge of a door and (ii) one of a rope guide slot and pulley
adapted to guide one of the first and second ropes over the top
edge of the door; first and second cylindrical members, each having
an exterior surface around which one of the first and second ropes
is wrapped; and a first structural support comprising a planer
section upon which the first and second cylindrical members are
coupled wherein the cylindrical members are (i) generally axially
aligned with each other, and (ii) spaced from each other a
sufficient distance to permit a person to lie on the planer section
therebetween.
17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the first and second
cylindrical members each comprise a T-shaped-cylindrical
member.
18. The exercise device of claim 16, further comprising second
structural support, the second structural support being coupled
with a third cylindrical member and including one or more lips, the
lips being adapted to brace against molding surrounding a doorway
to hold the second structural support in place generally at the top
of a doorway.
19. The exercise device of claim 16, further comprising first and
second directional braking mechanisms, each mechanism adapted to
(i) permit rotation of one of the first and second cylindrical
members in a first rotational direction, and (ii) hinder rotation
of one of the first and second cylindrical members in a second
rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction.
20. The exercise device of claim 19, wherein at least one of the
first and second directional braking mechanisms comprises, (a) a
third rope having first and second ends, the third rope being
wrapped multiple times around one of the first and second
cylindrical members with the first end secured to the structural
member and the second end coupled to the structural member by way
of an intervening elastic band.
21. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first T-shaped
cylindrical member is substantially hollow.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention generally relates to exercise equipment. More
particularly, this invention pertains to a portable exercise
apparatus for use in a doorway and/or in conjunction with a door
that utilizes sliding friction in conjunction with a weight to
provide resistance.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the past 15 to 30 years, exercise and weight training has
become very popular.
[0003] Traditional weight training typically uses free weights to
maximize the amount of work done by a targeted group of muscles.
Typically, the weights are attached the barbells, which a user
moves in a desired manner to exercise the targeted muscles. Because
the weights are not restrained but merely held by the user, there
is a significant risk of injury to the user or someone else nearby
if the user accidentally let's go of the weights. Furthermore,
dropped weights can cause damage to floors and other surrounding
surfaces. Another disadvantage of free weights is that a user can
strain or otherwise injure his or her muscles if his or her
technique of using the weights is improper.
[0004] For reasons of safety and convenience, weights have been
incorporated into mechanical gyms wherein the user pulls or pushes
on handles to raise or lower a set of weights connected to the
handles by way of pulleys and cables. These gyms often require
substantial support structures to contain the weights and direct
the cables and pulleys. Accordingly, these gyms are usually bulky
and heavy and are not particularly suited for use in residences,
especially smaller residences, such as apartments, where space is
at a premium. Additionally, these gyms are relatively expensive and
tend to provide resistance in a single plane only versus the
multi-plane resistance to movement permitted when a device having a
rope pull is utilized.
[0005] In the recent past, a number of exercise gyms and apparatus
that do not use weights have found their way into the marketplace.
To provide the necessary resistance to work muscles these gyms and
apparatus rely upon various types of load inducing mechanisms. Some
typical mechanisms include springs, elastomeric bands, resilient
rods, pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, wind resistance and
magnetic and electronic load resistance mechanisms. In general, the
devices relying on alternative load inducing mechanisms also
require a framework or support structure although the framework is
often much more compact and lighter than the framework of a gym
utilizing weights making it more suitable for use in a residence.
Nevertheless, such devices still typically require a substantial
amount of space.
[0006] The most compact of home exercise devices are those that
utilize gravity in combination with a user's own weight to provide
the necessary load to work the user's muscles. These devices,
however, are limited in the amount of load or resistance that can
be applied to particular muscle group.
[0007] A number of devices have been proposed that utilize
frictional resistance to provide an exercise load, such as the
devices described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,343,466, 4,560,160,
5,352,172, 3,510,132. Generally, each of these devices includes one
or more handles or grips that are attached to a rope which is
wrapped around a friction inducing member. Unfortunately, none of
these devices provide a means for automatically returning the
handles or grips to their pre-actuated positions. In other words,
once the user pulls or pushes a first handle or grip, he or she
must typically pull a corresponding second handle or grip to return
the first handle or grip into its pre-actuated position. Because of
this, a user of one of these frictional resistance exercise devices
can not simultaneously exercise both arms. For example, a user can
only perform a curl exercise on one arm at a time. Further, a user
cannot simulate a bench press exercise.
[0008] Another major disadvantage of several of these prior art
frictional resistance devices is that they or associated bracketry
must be permanently or fixedly attached to a wall or other surface,
such as with bolts or screws. This is especially disadvantageous to
apartment dwellers or others who cannot or do not want to
permanently fix something to the walls or floor of their residence.
None of these devices provide a convenient means for easily and
removably securing the devices to a potion of a residential
structure, such as a door or doorway.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, a
frictional resistance exercise device is described. The exercise
device includes a weight, a rope, a T-shaped cylindrical member and
a structural support. The rope has first and second ends wherein
the first end includes a hand grip and the second end has the
weight attached thereto. The T-shaped cylindrical member has an
exterior surface around which the first rope is wrapped. The
T-shaped cylindrical member is coupled to the structural
support.
[0010] In another preferred embodiment, another exercise device is
described. This exercise device comprises a weight, a rope, a
cylindrical member and a structural support. The rope has first and
second ends wherein the first end includes a first hand grip and
the second end has the weight attached thereto. The rope is wrapped
around an exterior surface of the cylindrical member. The
structural support is coupled with the cylindrical member and
includes one or more lips. The lips are adapted to brace against
molding surrounding a doorway to hold the structural support in
place generally at the top of a doorway.
[0011] In yet another preferred embodiment, yet another exercise
device is described. This exercise device comprises first and
second weights, first and second ropes, at least one door-mountable
rope guide, first and second cylindrical members and a structural
support. Each rope has first and second ends. The first end
includes a first hand grip and the second end has one of the first
and second weights attached thereto. The at least one
door-mountable rope guide includes (i) a slot adapted to fit over a
top edge of a door and (ii) one of a rope guide slot and pulley
adapted to guide one of the first and second ropes over the top
edge of the door. Each of the first and second cylindrical members
has an exterior surface around which one of the first and second
ropes is wrapped. The structural support comprises a planer section
upon which the first and second cylindrical members are coupled
wherein the cylindrical members are (i) generally axially aligned
with each other, and (ii) spaced from each other a sufficient
distance to permit a person to lie on the planer section
therebetween.
SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is an isometric front view of the first resistance
apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is an isometric side view of the first resistance
apparatus illustrating the associated braking mechanism.
[0014] FIG. 3 is an isometric view showing a person exercising
using the first resistance apparatus.
[0015] FIG. 4 is a flow chart concerning the set up and use of the
first resistance apparatus.
[0016] FIG. 5 is an isometric front view of the second resistance
apparatus in conjunction with its corresponding rope
assemblies.
[0017] FIG. 6 is an isometric side view of the second resistance
apparatus taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 5 illustrating the
associated braking mechanism.
[0018] FIG. 7 is an isometric view showing a person exercising
using the second resistance apparatus.
[0019] FIG. 8 is a flow chart concerning the set up and use of the
second resistance apparatus.
[0020] FIG. 9 is an isometric side view of an alternative braking
mechanism.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] Embodiments of a compact, portable, relatively low cost and
relatively lightweight exercise device are described. Embodiments
of the invention utilize one or more weights in combination with
rope friction to provide resistance load far greater than would be
provided by the weight alone. Further, embodiments of invention
make use of a doorway and an associated door to provide the
structural framework for the exercise device without being
permanently attached to either the doorway or the associated door.
By changing the configuration of the various components of the
embodiments of the exercise device, a user can use the device to
perform a multitude of different exercises. Additionally, a user of
the device can easily adjust the load resistance be either changing
the magnitude of the frictional rope resistance or by changing the
mass of the weight utilized.
[0022] The various embodiments of the present invention offer
significant advantages over prior art exercise devices. For
example, embodiments of the present invention are safe compared to
many other home gyms and exercise devices. The mass of the weights
utilized are relatively small (typically under 10 lbs) compared to
up to hundreds of pounds with free weights and weight-based
home-gyms. Accordingly, the potential to get injured by the weights
are much less than if they weighed more and no spotter is required
to assist a person during exercise as would be required to safely
utilize free weights. Further, because of the use of rope friction,
embodiments of the present invention exhibits little reverse
action. In other words, if a user releases the handle(s) (or
grip(s)) of the device while exercising, the weight does not
rapidly and forcefully return to its resting position in contrast
to weight-based home gyms. Rather, the weight is slowly returned to
its resting place due to braking provided by the rope
resistance.
[0023] Additionally, unlike other exercise devices utilizing
fictional resistance, embodiments of the present invention can be
utilized to perform exercises using both arms simultaneously such
as a bench press exercise, a two arm curl exercise, and chest press
exercise. Further, because the weight(s) is utilized in addition to
fictional resistance, the weight and the handles are returned to
their pre-actuation position automatically albeit in a controlled
manner without the user having to pull on the other end of an
associated rope.
[0024] The advantages of the present invention and its various
embodiments and the specific embodiments illustrated in described
herein are not intended to be construed as limiting. Rather,
numerous variations have been contemplated that read upon the
appended claims and are intended to be within the scope of the
invention.
[0025] Terminology
[0026] The term "or" as used in this specification and the appended
claims is not meant to be exclusive rather the term is inclusive
meaning "either or both".
[0027] References in the specification to "one embodiment", "an
embodiment", "a preferred embodiment", "an alternative embodiment"
and similar phrases means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The
appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in
the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same
embodiment.
[0028] The term "coupled" refers to two or more elements that are
connected together but not necessarily directly connected together.
For example, a rope is coupled to a support member even if the rope
is not in direct contact with the support member if there is an
intervening element or set of elements that are connected to both
the rope and the support member.
[0029] The term "weight" as used herein refers to any element
utilized to provide mass to the exercise device. For example, the
weight could include a metallic plate commonly used in exercise
devices, a container containing a desired amount of solid
particulate or liquid, or any other element of suitable mass.
[0030] The term "rope" as used herein refers to any flexible
elongated material or combination of materials that has a length
that is typically at least in order of magnitude greater than the
material's width. Accordingly, "rope" includes, but is not limited
to, cord, cable, wire and twine.
[0031] The term "T-shaped cylindrical member" as used herein refers
to any cylindrical element that has a protrusion extending
generally perpendicularly therefrom. The protrusion may be
cylindrical in shape as well. Typically, the protrusion extends
from proximate a center location along the length of the
cylindrical member. In one preferred embodiment, the T-shaped
cylindrical member comprises a copper tee and associated copper
piping, such as is typically used in plumbing applications. The
copper pipe permits the rapid dissipation of heat generated as the
rope frictionally slides along the surface of the cylindrical
portion and the protruding portion of the T-shaped cylindrical
member.
One Preferred Embodiment of the Exercise Device
[0032] One preferred embodiment of the exercise device comprises a
system including several distinct components. A first resistance
apparatus 105 (see FIGS. 1-3) that is attachable the molding 110
surrounding a doorway includes a first T-shaped cylindrical member
115 to provide resistance to the free movement of a rope 120 that
is selectively wrapped therearound. A second resistance apparatus
125 (see FIGS. 4-6) that rests upon a floor or ground surface
includes second and third T-shaped cylindrical members 130 &
135 that also provides finely adjustable resistance to the free
movement of other ropes 140 & 145 there are selectively wrapped
therearound. Other components include: weights, such as weight
bottles 150 they can be filled with water or sand; the
aforementioned ropes; over the doorway rope guides 155; and
exercise handles (or grips) 160. The first and second resistance
apparatus can be used in concert with each other or separately
depending on the particular type of exercise a user desires.
Furthermore, in certain configurations, two weights connected with
two ropes terminating in two exercise handles can be utilized to
allow simultaneous exercise of both arms, or in other
configurations, a single weight, rope and exercise handle can be
utilized.
[0033] The First Resistance Apparatus
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, the first resistance apparatus 105
is illustrated. The first resistance apparatus comprises
corresponding left and right mounting pieces 165 & 170 that
provide the structural support for the first T-shaped cylindrical
member 115 that is received into a circular openings 175 (or bores)
in each of the mounting pieces. The first resistance apparatus
further includes an elongated bolt 180 and corresponding wingnut
185 that is used to join the first and second mounting pieces
together. Also, a directional braking mechanism 190 is provided on
the right mounting piece to inhibit the first T-shaped cylindrical
member 115 from rotating in a first direction (clockwise in FIG. 2)
but permitting the first T-shaped cylindrical member to rotate in a
second opposite direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 2).
[0035] Each mounting piece comprises a typically planar member 195,
which in one preferred embodiment is comprised of wood. The planar
member includes the first circular opening 175 that is sized to
receive the first T-shaped cylindrical member 115 therethrough. A
second circular opening 200 is also provided in each planar member
through which the elongated bolt 180 is received to join the first
and second mounting pieces together. The top edge of each mounting
piece includes a lipped portion 205 that extends perpendicularly
from the planar member creating a downwardly facing surface adapted
to rest upon a top edge of the molding 110 that surrounds a typical
interior doorway. In one preferred embodiment, the lipped portion
also comprises a piece of wood, although in alternative embodiments
the lipped portion can comprise any suitable material including
plastic and metal. Furthermore, the lip portion and the planar
member may be integrated as a unitary piece.
[0036] A second lipped portion 210 is also provided in each
mounting piece 165 & 170 that is generally vertically oriented
and is located along the vertical edge of the planar member 195.
Similarly to the first lip portion 205, the second lip portion
extends perpendicularly from the planar member. The second lipped
portion creates a generally vertically oriented surface adapted to
be butted up against the outside edge of the vertically extending
side molding 115 of a typical doorway. In one preferred embodiment,
the second lip portion is also constructed from wood; however, it
can be comprised of any suitable material and like the first lipped
portion, the second lip portion can be integrally fabricated with
the corresponding planar member.
[0037] As best illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the left mounting
piece 165 is placed against the molding 115 on one side of a
doorway in an upper corner thereof while the corresponding right
mounting piece 170 is placed against the molding on the other side
of the doorway in the same corner. Each piece is joined together by
passing the elongated bolt 180 through the corresponding openings
200 and tightening the bolt in place with the wingnut 185. It is to
be appreciated that the first T-shaped cylindrical member 115 is
slid through its corresponding openings as the first resistance
apparatus is secured to the doorway.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 1, the first T-shaped cylindrical member
115 typically comprises an elongated copper tube 220 approximately
1 in. in diameter that extends through the corresponding openings
in the right and left mounting pieces when the first resistance
apparatus is attached to a doorway. In one variation, the T-shaped
cylindrical member comprises a commonly available 1" copper tee
with a 3/4" copper tube extending through it. Proximate the
longitudinal middle of the cylindrical member to a protrusion 215
extends perpendicularly. Typically, the protrusion is also
cylindrical and has a diameter of about 1 in. Ideally, the surfaces
of the first T-shaped member, including the surface of the
protrusion, are smooth to minimize heat buildup and abrasion of the
associated rope 120. Further, the intersecting transition between
the elongated cylindrical portion and a perpendicular protrusion is
gradual rather than abrupt such that the rope can slide freely
thereon. In one preferred embodiment, the first T-shaped
cylindrical member comprises a copper pipe tee. As shown, caps 225
can be provided on either end of the first T-shaped cylindrical
member and on the protrusion to enclose the ends of the copper tee.
Caps may also be omitted to facilitate faster cooling of the member
during exercise. In alternative embodiments and variations of the
preferred embodiments, the T-shaped cylindrical member can comprise
materials other than copper such as, but not limited to, plastics
and metals, although copper is generally preferred because of its
ability to dissipate heat generated as the rope slides against the
cylindrical member.
[0039] In one preferred embodiment, a gauge mechanism 230 is
provided whereby the user can determine the amount of resistance
load that is being overcome during exercise. The gauge mechanism
typically comprises a short cylindrical piece 235 having a center
bore that is slid over and fixedly secured to the first T-shaped
cylindrical member 115 such that it rotates unitarily with the
T-shaped cylindrical member. The outside surface of the short
cylindrical piece has a width sufficient to receive a gauge ribbon
240 wrapped thereupon. One end of the ribbon is fixedly secured to
outside surface while the other end of the ribbon has a weighted
position indicator 245 attached thereto. The position indicator,
which typically comprises a nail or other elongated metallic bar in
one preferred embodiment, extends generally horizontally. As shown
in FIG. 3, the pointed indicator corresponds to a graduated scale
250 that is affixed to an inside surface of the doorway. Typically,
the graduated scale is comprised of either paper or a flexible
plastic material with graduations printed on at least one surface.
The scale is typically taped or adhesively attached to the inside
surface of the doorway. Operationally, as discussed in greater
detail below, the user can determine the relative amount of
resistance load by noting the position of the weighted position
indicator relative to the gradations on the scale.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, one preferred version of the
directional braking mechanism 190 is illustrated. The braking
mechanism includes two terminus blocks 255, each having an eyelet
260 extending therefrom. A braking mechanism rope 265 is secured at
one end to one of the eyelets, wraps around a portion of the first
T-shaped cylindrical member 115 that extends through the right
mounting piece 170 and is secured at its other end to an
elastomeric band 270. The elastomeric band is secured to the other
eyelet. The braking mechanism rope is preferably taught such that
the elastomeric band is held in tension. Operationally, attempting
to rotate the first T-shaped cylindrical member clockwise applies
tension to the braking mechanism rope as it is pulled relative to
its connection to the first eyelet, thereby tightening the rope's
grip to the surface of the T-shaped cylindrical member around which
it is wrapped. Accordingly, the T-shaped cylindrical member is
prevented from rotating in a clockwise direction. Conversely, as
the T-shaped cylindrical member is rotated counterclockwise, the
rope pulls upon the elastomeric band which is secured to the second
eyelet. The amount of tension applied to the rope is thereby
limited as the elastomeric band stretches. Accordingly, the
T-shaped cylindrical member rotates with minimal resistance in the
counterclockwise direction. In alternative embodiments and
variations of the preferred embodiments, different types of braking
mechanisms can be utilized such as, but not limited to, a ratchet
and pawl mechanism or the alternative braking mechanism described
below with reference to FIG. 9.
[0041] As will be discussed below, rotating the T-shaped
cylindrical member 115 is desirable in order to quickly increase
and adjust the amount of frictional load to be applied during
exercise. To facilitate easy rotation of the T-shaped cylindrical
member in the counterclockwise direction, an adjustment tool 275 is
provided as shown in FIG. 2. The adjustment tool includes a handle
on one end and an elongated bar that extends from the handle. The
bar is received into a pair of holes 280 that extend through the
T-shaped cylindrical member proximate one end thereof. In one
preferred embodiment, the adjustment tool is removable so that it
can also be used on the second resistance apparatus described
below.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 3, the first resistance apparatus is
utilized in conjunction with a rope 120 that is looped around the
T-shaped cylindrical member 115 terminating at a hand grip 160 on
one end and a weight, typically a water bottle 150, at the other
end. The total resistance load experienced by a user pushing or
pulling on the hand grip is a factor of the weight of the water
bottle multiplied by the magnitude of the resistance to movement of
the rope against the T-shaped cylindrical member. The resistance of
the rope to movement is relative to the total contact angle of the
rope in radian around the T-shaped cylindrical member. For instance
if the rope is wrapped around the T-shaped cylindrical member less
than one complete rotation the resistance to movement will be less
than if the rope is wrapped around the T-shaped cylindrical member
multiple times. Accordingly, by varying the number of degrees the
rope is wrapped around the T-shaped cylindrical member, a user can
selectively modify the resistance load experienced at the grip.
[0043] Referring to the FIG. 4 block diagram, the setup, use and
operation of one preferred embodiment of the first resistance
device is described. First, the user takes the right mounting piece
170, which typically includes the braking mechanism and places it
against and on the molding 110 of a doorway at an upper corner
thereof as indicated in block 405. If the T-shaped cylindrical
member 115 is not already in place, the user slides the cylindrical
member in place as indicated in block 410. Next as shown in block
415, the user places the left mounting piece 165 on the opposing
molding on the other side of the doorway while simultaneously
sliding an end of the T-shaped cylindrical member through the
corresponding opening in the planar member 195 of the left mounting
piece. At this point, the first resistance apparatus should be
resting upon the molding at the corner and on either side of the
doorway. The user then places the elongated bolt through the
aligned openings in each mounting piece and secures the bolt in
place by threading and tightening a wingnut 185 to secure the bolt
and the first resistance apparatus in place as indicated in block
420.
[0044] Once the first resistance apparatus is attached to the
doorway, the user configures the device to perform a desired
exercise. As indicated in block 425, he/she fills the weight bottle
150 with water, sand or another substance until a desired weight is
achieved if it is not already filled, and he/she attaches the
weight bottle and grip 160 to either end of the rope 120 if they
are not already so attached. The user then loops the rope proximate
its longitudinal center around the protrusion 215 of the T-shaped
cylindrical member 115 as indicated in block 430. To increase the
resistance load encountered at the grip 160 as indicated in block
435, the user then takes the adjustment tool 275, places it into
the corresponding holes 280 proximate the end of the T-shaped
cylindrical member and rotates the T-shaped cylindrical member in a
counterclockwise direction to wrap the rope around the T-shaped
cylindrical member increasing the total angle of contact between
the rope and the T-shaped cylindrical member.
[0045] If the user desires to know the amount of resistance
required to operate the apparatus, he/she can hook a scale, such as
a common fish weight scale, to the end of the grip and pull the
scale to determine the effective load as indicated in block 440. If
the user has a plastic or paper graduated scale 250 as described
above, he/she can place the graduated scale 250 on the inside of
the doorway by aligning the metal indicator 245 described above
with the indicia corresponding to the weight indicated when the
weight scale was pulled. Accordingly, the user can then utilize the
gauge mechanism 230 when making adjustments to the relative
resistance load.
[0046] After the device is completely setup and optionally
calibrated, the user can perform any suitable exercise by pulling
or and/or pushing the grip 160 as indicated in block 445.
Subsequent to the pulling or pushing of the grip, the user relaxes
his/her application of force against the grip and lifts up lightly
on the grip to permit the grip and associated portion of the rope
120 to retract towards the first resistance apparatus as the weight
bottle 150 is pulled downwardly by the force of gravity. Unlike
substantially weight based exercise equipment, the grip retracts in
a controlled manner as the frictional resistance of the rope
sliding against the T-shaped cylindrical member 115 slows the rate
of recoil. Advantageously, unlike many prior art exercise apparatus
utilizing frictional resistance, the first resistance apparatus
does not require the user to manually reset the grip and the rope
by pulling on the other end of the rope opposite the grip. Further
advantageously, there is no spring back of the weight that could
cause injury or damage to items, persons and household animals
located near the weight.
[0047] The Second Resistance Apparatus
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 5-8, the second resistance apparatus 125
is illustrated in conjunction with two ropes, their associated
weights and grips and two rope guides for directing each rope over
and around the top of a door. The second resistance apparatus
comprises: a planar base member 285 adapted to be placed on a
ground surface; first and second T-shaped to cylindrical members
130 & 135; and a pair of flanges 290 for each T-shaped
cylindrical member to couple with the planar base member. Further,
a braking mechanism 300 that is generally similar to the braking
mechanism 190 of the first resistance apparatus 105 is associated
with each T-shaped cylindrical member.
[0049] The planar base member 285 can be comprised of any suitable
material including wood, plastic and metal. The base member is
adapted to rest on a ground surface such as a floor and may include
feet (not shown) mounted to the bottom side thereof. Generally, the
base member is substantially rigid such that it flexes only
minimally when utilized in the performance of exercise. The base
member is typically configured as a rectangle with a pair of
flanges 290 extending perpendicularly from its top surface
proximate each widthwise end of the base member. The length of the
base member is typically long enough such that a user can either
stand between the pairs of flanges and their associated T-shaped
cylindrical members 130 & 135 (see FIG. 7) or lay down upon the
base member with his/her shoulders resting on the top surface.
[0050] The pairs of flanges 290 can also be comprised of any
suitable material including wood, plastic and metal. The flanges
extend generally perpendicularly from the top surface of the base
member 285 and are fixed to the base member. Each pair of flanges
includes an outside flange 305 located proximate the edge of the
base member and an inside flange 310 spaced longitudinally relative
to the base member from the outside flange. Each flange includes an
opening 315 through which a portion of the cylindrical T-shaped
member 130 & 135 is received and can rotate or pivot therein.
As can be seen in FIG. 5, the openings in each pair of flanges for
the T-shaped cylindrical members are substantially axially aligned
with each other. Similar to the first resistance device, the
braking mechanism 300 illustrated in FIG. 6 prevents the T-shaped
cylindrical member from rotating in a clockwise direction while
permitting it to turn in a counterclockwise direction.
[0051] The T-shaped cylindrical members 130 & 135 are
substantially similar to the T-shaped cylindrical member 115
discussed above concerning the first resistance apparatus 105, and
need not be described in any additional detail. As illustrated,
caps 225 can be provided to close the ends of the cylindrical
members as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 6, the braking mechanism 300 is generally
similar to the braking mechanism 190 described above with reference
to the first resistance apparatus and is provided on the outside
surface of each outside flange 305. The illustrated braking
mechanism differs from the one discussed above concerning the first
resistance mechanism in that the eyelets 260 to which the brake
rope 265 and the elastic band 270 are attached are affixed directly
into the outside surface of the corresponding flange; whereas, the
eyelets 260 of the braking mechanism 190 described above have the
eyelets attached to terminus blocks 255 which are in turn attached
to the sides of the first resistance apparatus 105. It is to be
appreciated that the manner in which the braking mechanism is
configured can vary while still accomplishing the desired
functionality.
[0053] Because the second resistance apparatus includes two
T-shaped cylindrical members 130 & 135, it can be utilized to
perform exercises on both arms simultaneously as illustrated in
FIG. 7. Of course, a user can also use the apparatus to perform
isolated exercises on a single arm as well. The ropes 140 & 145
utilized with the second resistance apparatus 125 and the
corresponding weight bottles 150 and hand grips 160 are
substantially similar to the ropes, grips and weight bottles
utilized with the first resistance apparatus 105 except the length
of the ropes are typically greater than the rope 120 of the first
resistance apparatus. In one variation; however, the two single
hand grips can be replaced with a single hand bar (not shown) that
extends between the corresponding ends of both ropes to which its
end are attached to simulate a barbell such as when performing
curls. As can be appreciated the ropes are wrapped around a
corresponding T-shaped cylindrical member in much the same fashion
as described above for the first resistance device.
[0054] Further, to facilitate the use of the apparatus 125 in
conjunction with a door, two guides 155 are provided that route the
associated ropes 140 & 145 over the top of the door. The guides
can be made of any suitable material such as wood, plastic or metal
and typically include a groove in which the rope slides. The groove
can be lined with a low friction material such as Teflon. In
variations, the guides can include roller bearings located in the
grooves to lower friction, or in other designs that may bear little
resemblance to the specific guides illustrated in FIG. 5, the
guides could comprise freely rotating pulleys.
[0055] Referring to the FIG. 8 block diagram, the setup, use and
operation of one preferred embodiment of the second resistance
device 125 is described. First as indicated in block 805, a user
places the second resistance apparatus in front of a door that has
been opened. Next as indicated in block 810, the user slides the
rope over the door guides 155 over the top edge of the door.
Assuming the user has already filled the weight bottles 150 with
the desired amount of water and/or sand, he/she then places the
weight bottles of the opposite side of the door as the second
resistance apparatus and places the ropes 140 & 145 in their
associated guides as indicated in block 815. After that, the ropes
are threaded around the protrusions of the T-shaped cylindrical
members 130 & 135 as indicated in block 820. Finally to
complete the setup process as indicated in block 825, the user
rotates the T-shaped cylindrical members within their associated
pair of flanges 290 using the adjustment tool 275 to wrap or wind
the ropes on to the T-shaped cylindrical members to necessary
amount to give the desired resistance.
[0056] After the setup is complete, the user situates himself on
the base member 285. For instance, if the user desires to perform
curls, he/she would stand upon the base member facing away from the
door as shown in FIG. 7. On the other hand, if the user desires to
perform a bench press type exercise, he/she would lie on the base
member with his/her shoulders generally in alignment with the
cylindrical members 130 & 135. As desired, the user may put a
pad or pillow down over the base member for cushioning. The user
then takes the grips into his/her hands and performs the exercise
as indicated in block 830. Similarly to the first resistance
apparatus, the weight bottles 150 act to gently return the hand
grips 160 to their pre-actuated positions in a safe and controlled
manner.
[0057] In another set up of the exercise device that is not
illustrated herein, both the first and second resistance apparatus
105 & 125 can be used together. First, the second resistance
apparatus 125 is placed generally in a doorway such that its
longitudinal direction corresponds with the width of the doorway. A
single door guide 155 is placed over and associated open door. The
first resistance apparatus 105 is attached to the doorway at the
upper corner opposite the door. A first rope assembly comprising a
weight bottle 150, a rope 145 and a hand grip 160 is threaded into
the doorway guide and around one of the T-shaped cylindrical
members 135 of the second resistance apparatus. A second rope
assembly is then threaded around the T-shaped cylindrical member of
the first resistance apparatus only for purposes of directional
change. In other words, the rope 120 of this rope assembly is not
wound around the T-shaped member 115 but rather is simply looped
over it, such that the first resistance apparatus serves as a
directional change device similar to that over the door guide. The
rope of the second rope assembly is then wrapped around the second
T-shaped cylindrical member 130 of the second resistance apparatus.
Using this configuration, the user can both curl and bench press in
a manner similar to that of the second resistance apparatus as
previously described. This configuration, however, may be desirable
in certain circumstances such as when the space behind an open door
is illustrated in FIG. 7 is not sufficient to permit the weight
bottles to move freely upwardly and downwardly. Further, this
configuration permits a user to move his arms behind his head as
desired; whereas, when using the second resistance apparatus alone,
the ability of the user to extend his arms above his head is
limited by the door.
[0058] An Alternative Braking Mechanism
[0059] An alternative braking mechanism that can be used to do
either the first or second resistance apparatus is illustrated in
FIG. 9. In general, the alternative braking apparatus operates in
much the same manner as the braking apparatus described above.
Specifically, the braking apparatus prevents the rotation of the
T-shaped cylindrical member in one rotational direction while
permitting rotation in the opposite direction.
[0060] The alternative braking mechanism comprises a rope 330 that
has been folded in half over onto itself. The rope is wrapped
around one end of the T-shaped cylindrical member 130 for several
rotations and is coupled to one or more elastic bands 270 at its
folded end. The elastic bands are looped over a dowel 335 that
extends perpendicularly from the side flange 305 of the illustrated
portion of the second resistance apparatus. The free ends 340 of
the rope are wrapped, generally in a figure eight form, around two
parallel dowels 345 that extend upwardly from a terminus block 350
that is fixedly secured to the side flange. Additionally, each free
end of the rope is secured to the terminus block by way of cleat
screws 355.
[0061] When the rope 330 is tightly secured and wrapped around the
T-shaped cylindrical member 130 as illustrated, a user can rotate
the T-shaped cylindrical member in a counterclockwise direction but
cannot rotate the cylindrical member in a clockwise direction.
Accordingly, when exercising and applying a clockwise bias to the
cylindrical member when pulling the hand grip, the cylindrical
member will not to rotate. However, a user can increase the
resistance level of the exercise by rotating the cylindrical member
counterclockwise and wrapping more of the rope 155 associated with
a grip 160 and the weight 150 around the T-shaped cylindrical
member perhaps using the adjustment tool 275 received in the
corresponding holes 280 of the cylindrical T-shaped member.
Alternative Embodiments and Other Variations
[0062] The embodiments of the exercise device as illustrated in the
accompanying figures and described above are merely exemplary and
are not meant to limit the scope of the invention. It is to be
appreciated that numerous variations to the invention have been
contemplated as would be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the
art with the benefit of this disclosure. All variations of the
invention that read upon the appended claims are intended and
contemplated to be within the scope of the invention.
[0063] For instance, the braking mechanisms as described herein are
configured to prevent the T-shaped cylindrical member from rotating
clockwise and permitting rotation in the counterclockwise
direction, but braking mechanisms in variations and alternative
embodiments can be configured to prevent counterclockwise rotation
and permit clockwise rotation. In other embodiments, the specific
configuration of the device may differ substantially from the
exemplary devices illustrated but still fall within the scope of
the claims.
* * * * *