U.S. patent application number 10/931230 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-02 for ergonomic total body developer.
Invention is credited to Lawrence Nicholas Squittieri.
Application Number | 20060046913 10/931230 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35944189 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060046913 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Squittieri; Lawrence
Nicholas |
March 2, 2006 |
Ergonomic total body developer
Abstract
Utilizing the principles of physics (mass and leverage) and body
mechanics, the intent and design of the Ergonomic Body Developer
(EBD) is to harness the effects of torque at a given distance from
a fixed pivotal point. Other systems require a force (mass) to be
applied at the most distal point of the levering appendage
(typically the extremities). The EBD is designed to distribute said
force equally over the entire levering appendages concurrently with
the variability of the masses to gradually condition the body to
greater exertion and stamina, reducing or eliminating collateral
damage due to overzealous miscalculations. It is designed to target
specific muscles or muscle groups and to eliminate the necessity of
specialized equipment. The EBD utilizes natural, body motions in
such a manner that each activity becomes an exercise. The key is
the vast variability of the masses and their interchangable
positionings on the body.
Inventors: |
Squittieri; Lawrence Nicholas;
(Washingtonville, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Lawrence N. Squittieri
Box 61
Washingtonville
NY
10992
US
|
Family ID: |
35944189 |
Appl. No.: |
10/931230 |
Filed: |
August 31, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/124 ;
482/105 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/065 20130101;
A63B 21/4001 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/124 ;
482/105 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/065 20060101
A63B021/065; A63B 21/02 20060101 A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. I, Lawrence N. Squittieri, the sole inventor of the Ergonomic
Total Body Developer, aver and incorporate by reference, paragraphs
one (1) through fifty-two (52) as if fully stated herein and claim
as my invention the novelty and system of variable, site specific,
interchangeable, replaceable solid form masses of lead and/or dense
alloys and their systematic application to physical development,
muscle toning, medical rehabilitation, sports training and
development, and general exercise and fitness. It is the
interchangeability of the masses in both position and total mass
per unit volume and the ability to apply a specific force to target
areas of the body; and the placement of said masses that creates
the novelity of this approach to muscular toning, body development,
and medical rehabilitation. It is the system of application that
creates another basis of novelty to muscular toning, body
development, and medical rehabilitation. Either prior to, or after,
donning the ebd suit, the seperate masses are attached in the
specific positions as desired or required. Since the center of
gravity for the body is located in the pelvic area, and any
application of mass to the body is supported by the lower
appendages, the legs; this is where the process of development
begins. The lightest weights are applied to the EBD suit at the
position of the waist. After a period of acclaimation of the
muscles, the light masses are applied to the next available row of
spaces superiorly located to the first row. These two rows are left
in position as the body acclaimates to the additional mass. This
process continues to each successive row continuing out, over the
arms, to the most distal points, the hands, until all available
points of attachment are occupied by a mass. Once this is
accomplished, the legs, now supporting all the additional mass of
the upper body, are now targeted with additional mass beginning at
the upperportion of the leg or thigh and eventually extending
distally toward the ankle. Once all positions to the ankle are
occupied, the process recommences at the waist with more dense
masses replacing those already in position. Once all the lighter
masses have been replaced by intermediate masses, the process
recommences with more dense masses until the most dense mass is in
position. This process proceeds alone or in conjunction with other
training activities, but it has been conceived to be utilized alone
during the course of normal daily activities, utilizing natural
body motions and movements as an exercise. As such, each body
movement becomes an exercise and the body itself is transformed
into the training and/or exercise machine, reducing the necessity
for constructed, mechanical contrivances. In this scheme, utility,
design, and function are inherently dependent upon each other in
order to transform natural body motions into an exercise that
enhances, tones, and develops musculature without the use of
specialized, and often stationary, area specific, mechanical
constructs or contrivances. The design minimizes the necessity for
specialized mechanical devices and utilizes natural body motions to
exercise specfic muscles and/or muscle groups without the necesstiy
for predetermined, repetitive motions inherent in mechanical
equipment. It is the natural motion of the body, in the exact
vectors necessary to effect the motion, during any daily activity
or sport; with the variable mass evenly distributed over the entire
body surface that distinguishes the Ergonomic Total Body Developer
from any other system or equipment. The EBD suit exercises the
exact muscles and/or muscle groups in the exact proportions
necessary and in the exact vectors of motion necessary to effect
the chosen activity. The EBD suit is form fitting and constructed
of durable, breathable, and semi-elastic material, which forms the
foundation to which masses of various compositions, shapes and
densities are attached to the surface area of the body. The purpose
of such attachment is to apply a given force evenly over a specific
area of the body to achieve the desired effect of muscle tone and
strengthening utilizing the principle of torque and body mechanics.
This application of physics, torque, body mechanics in a gradual
manner as opposed to a sudden application of a fixed, invariable
mass in a predetermined position, is necessary to avoid undesirable
stresses which can result in bodily injury. As a consequence, the
EBD suit and system was designed to minimize this possible event.
Even distribution of mass and gradual acclaimation to the applied
mass of the EBD suit permits acclaimation over time. The EBD suit
was designed to be worn for a period of exertion of up to
twenty-four (24) hours or any part thereof, utilizing the lightest
weights; or for lesser designated durations of time, while
utilizing the heavier masses. Even distribution and gradual
acclaimation to the masses of the EBD suit permits a reduction of
stress and tension on the tendons, ligaments, and joints, thereby
reducing collateral damage due to excessive stresses and/or
overexertion combined with a lack of acclaimation. This is
accomplished by initially affixing the masses to the proximal point
of origin of the muscles reducing the torque on the levering
appendage and permitting the gradual acclaimation to the additional
resistance of the added mass of the affixed masses at a more
distally located position. The EBD suit is designed to replace the
older wrist and/or ankle weights that have a fixed mass which
locates at a particular position on the body and are not conducive
to extended wear, especially under everyday clothing designed for
work or leisure. The EBD suit is designed to increase the
effectiveness of various exercises and/or training regimen. As a
consequence, it is designed to minimize the necessity of exercise
programs requiring a specified exercise area, time and/or routine,
since exercise is incorporated into daily routine activities
because of the EBD design. This is a result of the design of the
EBD suit allowing it to be worn as under or outerwear garment.
Therefore, the exercises are not limited to the physical structure
of mechanical exercisers or machines; nor are they limited to a
stationary device; nor are they hindered by portability of
equipment. The body is transformed into the exercise machine with
the addition of masses of various densities. The configuration,
versatility, and design of form and function of the EBD suit allows
for the targeting of specific muscles and/or muscle groups as may
be needed in the rehabilatative efforts following traumatic
physical injuries or extended convalescence. Therefore, it is
designed as a key element for physical therapeutic applications,
especially in the restoration, control, and function of muscular
strength, and dexterity, and stamina. The EBD suit is designed to
serve as a sports training accessory to enhance the development of
musculature and/or endurance. The EBD suit is designed to maintain
and/or enhance general fitness by design and/or function. Increased
muscle tone and mass consumes a greater quantity of calories. The
added increased mass affixed to the EBD suit increases the
resistance to the motion of the muscles in effecting normal daily
activities and as a consequence increases muscle endurance and
consumes a greater total of calories. The increased caloric
utilization, with a concurrent stabilization and/or decrease of
caloric intake will have a cumulative affect of an overall decrease
in adipose tissue. The results are best attained and described by a
planned diet and exercise program, which would enhance the optimum
efficiency of the EBD suit and system. This is best determined by a
complete physical and the recommendations of a competent medical
professional. As a result, the EBD suit and program will
simultaneously affect other associated body systems and contribute
to general physical health and general well being as an inherent
by-product. The advantages of the EBD suit and system are the
flexability of use and application; the variability of the masses
in density and/or positioning; the absence of the necessity for a
specific exercise area, or time, or equipment; the ability to
target specific muscles and/or muscle groups; portability; ease of
utilization by most age groups; a reduction in weight training
injuries, if used properly; application on an extended daily
routine regime or use; application in daily aactivities of normal
routine, or sports activities and/or training, or rehabilitative
therapy; physical benefits to any age group; collateral reduction
of body fat; increase in muscular tone and stamina; collateral
improvement to related body systems; minimal storage space; extreme
portability; and use as a daily under or outerwear garment.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX
[0003] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The Ergonomic Total Body Developer (heretofore EBD)
addresses the state of overall body development and fitness. Since
the dawn of the Industrial Age, machines have replaced the physical
exertion which contributed to body strength and weight control in
an effort to make life simpler and easier. Gone are the days of
walking, splitting logs, and scrubbing laundry. The lack of this
type of exercise has contributed to the statistical increase of
excess body weight.
[0005] In an effort to combat this problem there has been an
increase in fitness gyms, spas, exercise equipment, and diet fads,
clubs, programs, and pills. Each catagory requires time and/or
exercise as a supplement to their specific therapy.
[0006] In today's society, time is at a premium. Gyms, spas, and
exercise equipment need an allotment of time. Diets, to be
effective need an exercise program as a supplement. Allowing for
time, exercise machines have a full range of motion in a given
vector dictated by the design of the machine and the specified
exercise. The same applies to heavy free weights.
[0007] In an effort to make exercise more effective by increasing
the resistence the muscles must overcome to effect a motion,
sandbag type wrist and ankle weights were developed. These
bracelets are bulky, can be situated in only one place at the
extremities, do not vary in weight, and are uncomfortable when the
sand or beaded filling shifts and collects in the bottom of their
respective pockets.
[0008] Considering the body physics of such weighted attachments,
these have the effect of turning the arm into the physical
equivalent of a Midieval mace. Considering body physics, this
places an excessive strain on the supporting ligaments and tendons
because of the phenomena of torque. In addition to the phenomena of
torque, there is the effect of inertia; accelleration, and
deceleration of the added mass on the tendons and ligaments of the
unaccustomed appendages during the initial phases of training which
causes pain at the points of origin and insertion of the
muscles.
[0009] In many instances, storage of specialized equipment is a
burden on available space. This prohibits its purchase and mandates
frequenting a spa, gym, or club. It also mandates the expenditure
of time which is at a premium or is utilized as an excuse for
procrastination and/or inaction.
[0010] Free weights and specilized equipment are not readily
portable. The bracelet type weights are not conducive to normal
daily wear and must therefore be worn during free or allotted
exercise time.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The EBD suit addresses the state of overall body development
and fitness concerning body strength and weight control. It is not
meant to replace gyms or spas. Nor is it a substitute for diets.
Instead, it is complimentary to gyms and spas. It is also meant to
supplement diets by changing normal daily activities into
exercise.
[0012] The EBD suit is constructed as a form fitting body suit to
which are attached solid removable weights. These weights extend
over the entire body surface area. Their purpose is to increase
resistance to body motions and to increase the mass to be
effectively moved by the muscles. As a consequence, each movement
actuated during the course of normal daily activities becomes an
exercise. This eliminates time as a premium.
[0013] The weights are solid lead masses and/or alloys of different
masses which allow a greater variation in the weight applied to the
body. The solid construction of the weights eliminates the
uncomfortable bulking of sand or beaded type weights. It also
permits the EBD suit to be worn comfortably under normal daily
wear.
[0014] The variation of metal and/or alloys of different densities
and masses permits the variation of the amount of mass applied at
different positions on the body; over the entire body surface. In
this way, the applied weight is more evenly distributed on the
body.
[0015] This eliminates the Midieval mace effect. The ability to
attach and remove the individual weights permits the targeting of
various muscles and/or muscle groups. It also allows the gradual
acclaimation of the ligaments and tendons to the added resistance,
thus eliminating the pains associated with the heavier fixed
bracelet type weights, since it is hard to avoid overexertion
without being able to vary the applied mass.
[0016] The individual weights, being composed of lead and/or alloys
of high density can be stored in a small space consisting of less
than one cubic foot, virtually eliminating the necessity of storage
space.
[0017] This system, by utilizing small weights; and having the
capacity to vary the total weight by ounces instead of pounds; and
by being able to be comfortably worn under normal daily wear; is
extremely portable, and eliminates the excuse of procrastination
and/or inaction as an excuse to not increase daily exercise. It
also eliminates the necessity of allotting a given amount of time
for exercise.
[0018] This system, with the ability to vary the position of the
weights in relation to the muscles can be applied to the field of
medical rehabilitation which would require the recovery of muscular
strength after a traumatic incident or extended convalesence.
[0019] This system, with the variability of total weight applied,
can be applied to the field of sports, either in training or
maintaining muscle tone. Muscle tone also applies to non-sporting
activities as well.
[0020] Since these weights are not connected to any specialized
equipment, such as a weight machine, the body itself is converted
into the machine. As such, the body does not exercise in the
vectors dictated by the construction of the machine. The body will
exercise in the natural motions associated with the activity in
which one engages. The body is not forced to exercise in vertical
and horizontal vectors. It will now exercise in the vectors which
are natural to daily activities, or particular sports, or to the
required medical rehabilitation.
[0021] The numerous variations afforded by the design and
construction of the EBD suit allows it to be worn with light
weights for the duration of a day; or to be worn with the full
compliment of weights for a part of a day.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1: This is the approximate placing of the various
weights (FIG. 1[I]) over the surface of the EBD suit (rear
view).
[0023] FIG. 2: This is the frontal view describing the approximate
placement of the various weights (FIG. 2[I]) over the surface of
the EBD suit.
[0024] FIG. 3: This represents the approximate placing of the
weights over the portions of the arm (FIG. 3[I])(upper &
lower).
[0025] FIG. 4: Representation of the placement of the weights (FIG.
4[I]) on the upper and lower leg.
[0026] FIG. 5: Representation (not to scale) of the construction of
the weights (FIG. 5[IV]) sealed in protective, environmentally safe
coating (FIG. 5[II]) and attached to a Velcro strip (FIG.
5[III])(as seen in cross section example).
[0027] FIG. 6: Representation of the environmentall safely coated
(FIG. 5[II]; FIG. 6 [II]) weight (FIG. 5[IV]; FIG. 6[IV]) attached
to the velcro and/or fastener (FIG. 5[III]; FIG. 6[III]) and
situated above the complimentary Velcro attachment site (FIG.
6[V]), which is affixed to the material (FIG. 6[VI]) of the EBD
suit.
[0028] FIG. 7: Depcition of the EBD suit (sans weights)
demonstrating the method of supporting the two parts of the EBD
suit (upper & lower) forming an intergral unit by affixing the
upper body suit (FIG. 7[Ix]; FIG. 8[IX]) to the lower portion (FIG.
7[X]; FIG. 8[X]).
[0029] FIG. 8: Attached Velcro on the interior portion of the shirt
(FIG. 8[XV]), while the externally attached Velcro strips (FIG.
8[XX]) on the pants interact to form an intergral unit (FIG.
7[XI]).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0030] The EBD suit is a body fitting outfit composed of a
breathable, semi-elastic material which permits the uninhibited
free motion of the body in much the same way a "Danskin" or "Body
Armor" suit maintains its proximity to the body while allowing
freedom of motion and mobility.
[0031] Attached to this suit are small individual masses (or
weights) composed of lead and/or various alloys to vary the mass of
the individual units, which may be configured in various sizes
and/or shapes. These masses attach to the suit by one of several
various methods depending on the style and/or desired utilization
of the suit.
[0032] The purpose of these attached masses is to increase muscle
tone, and to increase the opportunity for exercise utilizing normal
daily activities without the necessity for specialzed exercise.
[0033] The first method of attachment is by using Velcro or
velcro-type strips. One part of the Velcro or velcro-type strip,
the receptor site (FIG. 1[I]; FIG. 2[I]), is attached to the suit
(FIG. 6[VI]) by stiching and/or rivets (not shown). The
complimentary piece of Velcro or velcro-type material (FIG. 5[III];
FIG. 6[III]) is attached to the individual mass (FIG. 5[IV]; FIG.
6[IV]) by means of adhesive and/or rivets passing through the
material into the body of the mass.
[0034] When the two (2) units are pressed together (FIG. 3[I]; FIG.
4[I]), the mass is attached to the suit (FIG. 1[I]; FIG. 2[I]; FIG.
3[I]; FIG. 4[I]), and is functional. These masses can be removed
later for cleaning the material of which the suit is composed; or
to vary the total mass (weight) and/or configuration of the masses
over the surface area of the body. In such a way affecting the
muscles of the body in a different manner.
[0035] The sites chosen to not support a mass are covered with a
material patch which attaches to the receptor site (FIG. 1[I]; FIG.
2[I]) to avoid undesirable clinging to normal daily wear.
[0036] The masses (weights) (FIG. 5[IV]; FIG. 6[IV]) are extruded
or molded into their respective forms or shapes. Once the desired
shape and mass is attained, it is then coated in a protective,
flexible, durable substance; preferably a plastic material (FIG.
5[II]; FIG. 6[II]), for environmental and health safety purposes.
It is to this protective surface and/or through this protective
surface that the adhesive is attached or the rivets pass from the
formed masses to maintain adherence to the EBD suit.
[0037] These masses are then attached to the receptor sites
positioned over the entire surface of the body (FIG. 1[I]; FIG.
2[I]).
[0038] However, instead of Velcro or velcro-type strips and/or
rivets to attach the masses to the EBD suit, individual pockets
(not shown) to contain the masses and also allow their removal, may
be sewn and/or riveted to the EBD suit (FIG. 7[IX,X]; FIG.
8[IX,X]).
[0039] Sewing is the preferred method of attachment of the receptor
sites (FIG. 1[I]; FIG. 2[I]), but as previously mentioned, it is
not the only means of attachment. Any strong/durable, permanent
method of attaching the receptor sites (FIG. 1[I]; FIG. 2[I]; FIG.
6[V]) to the EBD suit (FIG. 7 [IX,X]; FIG. 8[IX,X]) may be
utilized.
[0040] Slide and lock receptor sites may be utilized. This method
requires that the masses be configured to slide into a preformed,
rigid receptor and lock into position by virtue of the shape of the
mass designed to fit and lock into the receptor.
[0041] Once the masses (FIG. 5[II,III,IV]; FIG. 6[II,III,IV]; FIG.
4[I]) are attached to the EBD suit, the suit is functional.
[0042] This system is different from the large bulky masses that
are attached to the wrists or the ankles. These masses create undo
inertia, like a swinging mace, and inhibits rapid recoil of the
muscles during daily activities or sports activities. These bulky
masses do not fit under normal daily wear, nor are they comfortable
to wear over an extended period of time. This is because of the
amorphous mass; usually composed of sand or pellets of a dense
material; and its tendency to accumulate and bulk at the base of
the pockets or bags in which they are contained by design. This
limits the availability of the bulky wrist and ankle weights to be
worn during an extended period of a day's normal activities.
[0043] The EBD system is designed to be worn comfortably under
normal daily wear as an undergarment. It is also designed to be
worn as primary outerwear, making it sufficiently versitile to be
worn during any occasion and while performing daily activities from
housekeeping to sports activities.
[0044] The fact that the masses are solid forms (FIG. 5[II,III,IV];
FIG. 6 [II,III,IV]) in the EBD system, is a departure from the
current wrist and ankle bracelets constructed as bags containing an
amorphous material. These bags permit the shifting and realignment
of the amorphous mass which creates an uncomfortable fit and
prohibits its use under pants and shirts, slacks and blouses, or
other daily wear.
[0045] The EBD solid masses are designed to fit comfortably under
clothing. The solid mass also allows the total mass of the applied
weight to be evenly distributed over the surface of the body,
instead of being focused at one point. This allows for a more
uniform conditioning of the muscles. These solid masses of the EBD
system will not shift once placed into position, nor will they
alter shape or change form. It is designed as a thin wafer allowing
it to be worn comfortably under pants and shirts, slacks and
blouses, or other daily wear. It is also designed to be worn as
outerwear, if so desired.
[0046] Considering the amount of mass attached to the lower
portion/pants section (FIG. 7[x]; FIG. 8[X]) of the EBD suit, a
method of support attachments has been designed into it. On the
exterior facade of the pants (FIG. 7[X]; FIG. 8[X]), along the
waistband and extending vertically are a series of Velcro or
velcro-type strips (FIG. 8[XX]). To the interior face of the upper
portion of the EBD suit or shirt is the complimentary portion of
the Velcro or velcro-type receptors which extend horizontially
around the lower circumference (FIG. 8[XV]). Utilizing this method
of attachment (FIG. 7[XI]), this overlap serves to unite the two
portions as a single unit (FIG. 7[IX,X,XI]). The shoulders, in
effect, become the ultimate support of the mass supported by the
lower portion of the suit (FIG. 7[X]; FIG. 8[X]) or pants.
[0047] The improvement is the stability of the solid mass held in
position by individual receptor sites (FIG. 1[I]; FIG. 2[I]).
Further improvement is the solid form of the individual units (FIG.
5[II,III,IV]; FIG. 6[II, III,IV]) eliminating amorphous shifting
and alterations.
[0048] A further improvement is the ability to evenly distribute
the total mass of the individual units evenly over the entire
surface area of the body. This allows for a more gradual
acclaimation of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons to the weight
of the masses.
[0049] Another improvement is the ability to place the individual
masses in specific positions, and consequently targeting certain
muscles and/or muscle groups for toning and/or development.
[0050] This system demonstrates versitility in the fields of sports
training, medical rehabilitation, and domestic physical
fitness.
[0051] An inherent benefit is the abililty to increase or decrease
the total amount of mass, and therefore weight, by increments of
ounces instead of pounds.
* * * * *