U.S. patent application number 11/345480 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-02 for combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus.
Invention is credited to Michael D. Slawinski.
Application Number | 20070179030 11/345480 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38322822 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070179030 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Slawinski; Michael D. |
August 2, 2007 |
Combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus
Abstract
A combined free and stack-weight fitness apparatus utilizes a
combination of free-weights and stack-weight assemblies to provide
multi-mode fitness training. The total training resistance is a
combination of free-weights attached to a barbell and stack-weight
resistance transmitted to the barbell by cables. A pair of overhead
cables attached to the barbell provide vertical support until a
substantial portion of the weight on the barbell is borne by the
operator.
Inventors: |
Slawinski; Michael D.;
(Suwanee, GA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KENNETH S WATKINS JR
372 RIVER DR
DAHLONEGA
GA
30533
US
|
Family ID: |
38322822 |
Appl. No.: |
11/345480 |
Filed: |
February 1, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/98 ;
482/99 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/075 20130101;
A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 21/00181 20130101; A63B 21/0724
20130101; A63B 21/0628 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/098 ;
482/099 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/062 20060101
A63B021/062 |
Claims
1. A combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus for
providing resistance-training comprising: a frame: a free-weight
assembly comprising a free-weight attachment element releasably
attaching a selected quantity of free-weights to said free-weight
assembly; an overhead cable assembly connecting said free-weight
assembly to a support assembly attached to said frame; a
stack-weight assembly comprising a plurality of vertically stacked
weights disposed in said frame; and a stack-weight cable assembly
connecting a selected quantity of stack-weights from said plurality
of vertically stacked weights to said free-weight assembly; wherein
a total resistance force to a user of said apparatus results by a
combination of a first force provided by said selected quantity of
free-weights attached to said free-weight assembly and a second
force provided by said selected quantity of stack-weights connected
to said free-weight assembly.
2. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 1
wherein said support assembly is a support column attached to said
frame.
3. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 2
wherein said overhead cable assembly connects said free-weight
assembly to said support column by a weight-responsive engagement
assembly engageable with said support column.
4. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 3
wherein said weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises a pawl
engageable with said support column to provide hold support to said
free-weight assembly.
5. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 4
wherein said weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises a
disengagement bias element operably connected to said pawl, said
disengagement bias element actuated by a disengagement actuator
disposed on said free-weight assembly.
6. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 1
wherein said free-weight assembly comprises a free-weight bar
having a first end and a second end and said free-weight bar
comprises a first free-weight attachment element on said first end
releasably attaching a first selected quantity of free-weights to
said free-weight assembly and a second free-weight attachment
element on said second end releasably attaching a second selected
quantity of free-weights to said free-weight assembly wherein said
total resistance force to a user of said apparatus results by a
combination of a first force provided by said first selected
quantity of free-weights and said second selected quantity of
free-weights attached to said free-weight assembly and a second
force provided by said selected quantity of stack-weights connected
to said free-weight assembly.
7. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 6
wherein said support assembly comprises a first support column and
a second support column attached to said frame and wherein said
first end of said free-weight bar is operatively attached to said
first support column by a first overhead cable assembly and said
second end of said free-weight bar is operatively attached to said
second support column by a second overhead cable assembly.
8. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 7
wherein said stack-weight assembly comprises a first stack-weight
assembly comprising a first plurality of vertically stacked weights
disposed in said frame and a first stack-weight engagement element
connecting a first selected quantity of stack-weights to said first
end of said free-weight assembly by a first stack-weight cable
assembly, and a second stack-weight assembly comprising a second
plurality of vertically stacked weights disposed in said frame and
a second stack-weight engagement element connecting a second
selected quantity of stack-weights to said second end of said
free-weight assembly by a second stack-weight cable assembly so
that said total resistance force to a user of said apparatus
results by a combination of said first force provided by said first
selected quantity of free-weights and said second selected quantity
of free-weights attached to said free-weight assembly and a second
force provided by said first selected quantity of stack-weights and
said second selected quantity of stack-weights connected to said
free-weight assembly.
9. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 7
wherein said first overhead cable assembly connects said
free-weight assembly to said first support column by a first
weight-responsive engagement assembly engageable with said first
support column and said second overhead cable assembly connects
said free-weight assembly to said second support column by a second
weight-responsive engagement assembly engageable with said second
support column.
10. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 9
wherein said first weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises
a first pawl engageable with said first support column and said
second weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises a second
pawl engageable with said second support column to provide hold
support to said free-weight assembly.
11. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 10
wherein said first weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises
a first disengagement bias element operably connected to said first
pawl, said first disengagement bias element actuated by a first
disengagement actuator disposed on said free-weight assembly and
said second weight-responsive engagement assembly comprises a
second disengagement bias element operably connected to said second
pawl, said second disengagement bias element actuated by a second
disengagement actuator disposed on said free-weight assembly.
12. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 11
wherein said first disengagement actuator and said second
disengagement actuator are connected in series whereby actuation of
both first and second disengagement actuators are required to
release support of said free-weight assembly from said first
support column and said second support column.
13. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 1
comprising a pulley disposed below said free-weight assembly
routing said stack-weight cable assembly to provide a downward
force on said free-weight assembly.
14. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 1
comprising an adjustable pulley assembly engageable with said frame
routing said stack-weight cable assembly above or below said
free-weight assembly to provide either a downward force on said
free-weight assembly or an upward force on said free-weight
assembly.
15. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 1
wherein said stack-weight cable assembly comprises a quick-release
fastener for attaching a D-ring to said first stack-weight
cable.
16. A combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus for
providing resistance-training comprising: a frame: a free-weight
assembly operatively connected to a support assembly of said frame
by an overhead cable, said free-weight assembly comprising a
free-weight attachment element releasably attaching a selected
quantity of free-weights to said free-weight assembly; a
stack-weight portion comprising a plurality of vertically stacked
weights disposed in said frame and comprising a stack-weight
engagement element releasably engaging a selected quantity of
stack-weights to said free-weight assembly by a stack-weight cable;
wherein a total resistance force to a user of said apparatus is a
combination of a first force provided by said selected quantity of
free-weights attached to said free-weight assembly and a second
force provided by a said selected quantity of stack-weights engaged
to said free-weight assembly.
17. The combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus of
claim 16 wherein said support assembly comprises a first support
column and a second support column and said free-weight assembly
comprises a free-weight bar having a first end portion connected to
said first support column by a first overhead cable and a second
end portion of said free-weight bar connected to said second
support column by a second overhead cable.
18. The combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus of
claim 17 wherein said stack-weight portion comprises a first
stack-weight assembly comprising a first plurality of stack-weights
and a second stack-weight assembly comprising a second plurality of
stack-weights and said first end portion of said free-weight
assembly is connected to said first stack-weight assembly by a
first stack-weight cable and said second end portion of said
free-weight assembly is connected to said second stack-weight
assembly by a second stack-weight cable.
19. The combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus of
claim 18 wherein said first stack-weight assembly comprises a first
stack-weight engagement element releasably engaging a first
selected quantity of stack-weights to said free-weight assembly by
said first stack-weight cable and said second stack-weight assembly
comprises a second stack-weight engagement element releasably
engaging a second selected quantity of stack-weights to said
free-weight assembly by said second stack-weight cable so that said
total resistance force to a user of said apparatus is a combination
of a first force provided by said selected quantity of free-weights
attached to said free-weight assembly and a second force provided
by said first selected quantity of stack-weights and said second
selected quantity of stack-weights engaged to said free-weight
assembly.
20. The combination free and stack-weight fitness apparatus of
claim 16 comprising a pulley assembly positionable on said frame
and defining a first position routing said stack-weight cable to
said free-weight assembly from below said free-weight assembly and
a second position routing said stack-weight cable to said
free-weight assembly from above said free-weight assembly.
21. The combination free and stack-weight apparatus of claim 16
wherein said stack-weight cable comprises a quick-release fastener
for attaching a D-ring to said stack-weight cable.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefits of US Provisional
Application No. 60/492,925 filed Aug. 06, 2003 and PCT application
No. PCT/US2004/025063 filed 04 Aug. 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to the field of fitness
equipment and, more particularly, to a fitness equipment utilizing
both free-weights and stack-weights.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Despite the variety of exercise and muscle-building
equipment and activities available, free-weight lifting continues
to be the workout method of choice for many athletes. Free-weight
lifting allows unrestrained motion during lifting, closely
approximating application of human strength in many recreation and
sporting activities. Selection of weights utilized in free-weight
lifting is highly repeatable as compared to machines employing
levers, cams, and resistance elements such as springs and hydraulic
or pneumatic cylinders. Also, free-weights provide uniform
resistance unaffected by wear of mechanical parts and other
components.
[0006] One disadvantage limiting use of free-weights is the need
for one or more spotters, especially in strength regimens that push
the strength and endurance limits of the user. These regimens are
most effective when the user continues repetitions until he or she
is unable to lift the weight. This is a safety concern if spotters
are not immediately available since the user may be unable to
safely lift the weight to a support device. Even when spotters are
available, they may not recognize an unsafe condition, or, their
response may not be quick enough to prevent injury.
[0007] Another limitation of free-weight equipment is the time
required to add or remove free-weights to the free-weight assembly.
The free-weight retainers such as clips or clamps must be
physically removed from each side in the case of a conventional
free-weight bar in order to add or remove weights, followed by
re-installation of the clips or clamps.
[0008] Stack-weight fitness apparatus, on the other hand, provides
a quick method to change the amount of desired weight by withdrawal
or insertion of a pin in the bottom weight of a desired stack. The
freedom of motion of stack-weight apparatus is limited unless
cables are used, and even then no overhead support is provided.
[0009] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,293,892, 6,379,287, and 6,537,182, hereby
incorporated as references, make a significant step forward in
disclosing free-weight apparatus incorporating weight-responsive
engagement assemblies which engage or disengage free-weight support
from a frame. This apparatus also provides self-spotting of
dumbbells and allows motion of free-weight ends independent of each
other.
[0010] Despite the improvements offered in the aforementioned
patents, there remains a need for improved self-spotting
free-weight apparatus that further expand the fitness training
variations provided by the apparatus.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] Therefore an object of the present invention is to provide
fitness equipment combining free-weights and stack-weights to
expand the types of fitness training available.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to reduce time
required to change the weights associated with free-weight
training.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide
automatic support of a combined free-weight and stack-weight
apparatus upon loss of control of the free-weight.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an
apparatus providing a realistic pushing or "jamming"
resistance-training mode.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
wide range of individual fitness training not available with
barbell training.
[0016] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
backup support for free-weight operation.
[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide
flexible fitness equipment that is reliable and reasonable in
cost.
[0018] The fitness equipment of the present invention utilizes a
combination of free-weights and stack-weights to increase the
flexibility and capability of the apparatus. In the preferred
embodiments the free-weight assembly, which may be a barbell-type
component, is supported overhead by cable assemblies on either side
of the barbell when not in use, or if the user is unable to
maintain grip on the barbell. Two additional cables, connected to a
pair of stack-weight assemblies, provide additional resistance from
a direction determined by the position of an adjustable pulley
assembly attached to the frame of the apparatus.
[0019] Normally the adjustable pulley assembly will be positioned
so that the stack-weight cables connect to the free-weight assembly
from below. The total resistance of the barbell is a combination of
the resistance of the free-weight assembly and the resistance of
the stack-weights. The resistance of the free-weight assembly is
normally the weight of the barbell and any free-weights attached to
it. In another mode, the combination of fixed overhead cable
support and downward cable load from the stack-weight cables also
allows pushing or "jamming" type training where the operator exerts
a significant horizontal or near-horizontal training force.
[0020] In other types of weight training, the adjustable pulley
assembly is positioned so that the stack-weight cables are
positioned and attached from above the barbell, subtracting the
force from the stack-weight assembly from that of the free-weight
assembly. In this mode, the stack-weights can be adjusted to
completely compensate the downward force of the free-weights,
resulting in a nearly "zero" net weight on the barbell. Such a mode
is useful in specialized training such as rehabilitation training.
It is also possible to increase the stack-weight force
sufficiently, or reduce the free-weight sufficiently so that the
upward force from the weight stack is greater than the downward
force from the free-weights. This arrangement results in "negative"
training where the barbell must be "pulled" down against the normal
direction of gravity.
[0021] In still other uses, the stack-weight cables are removed
from the free-weight assembly allowing them to be used for
independent arm or leg training using D-rings or dumbbells. The
apparatus allows realistic free-weight training with improved
safety and ease of weight changing.
[0022] The overhead support cables connect the barbell to a
weight-responsive engagement assembly on each of two support
columns. The weight-responsive engagement assemblies utilize a pawl
biased toward engagement with one of a plurality of holes or
openings in the support columns. A solenoid, energized when the
user grips both of the grip actuators or sensors on the barbell,
provide a disengagement bias on the engagement pawls. The
disengagement bias is insufficient to withdrawal the pawls from the
holes of the support columns until a significant (preferably most)
of the weight of the barbell (and downward force from the
stack-weights) is relieved by lifting of the free-weight assembly
by the operator. An optional mode selector switch on the frame
ensures that the barbell remains supported from above regardless of
lift support during pushing or jamming modes or independent
operation.
[0023] Retainer clamps on the barbell allow addition or removal of
free-weights. Engagement of a pin between a selected weight and an
engagement rod determines the number of stack-weights connected to
the stack-weight cable. Optional adjustable stack-weight support
brackets, positioned by a motor and lead screw drive, provide a
convenient method to support all of the stack-weights and allow for
quick and easy disengagement and re-engagement of stack-weights by
pin removal and insertion. Manual or foot-switch operated stops on
the support columns limit the motion of the weight-responsive
engagement assemblies to define the lower most position attainable
by the barbell.
[0024] Quick-disconnect fasteners connecting the lower cables to
the barbell are removable and attachable to D-rings or barbells for
individual arm or leg stack-weight training. Adjustable pulley
assemblies, located below the barbell and adjustable in height,
provide a means to adjust the stack-weight cable geometry.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings
where:
[0026] FIG. 1 is a front elevation drawing of the combination free
and stack-weight fitness apparatus of the present invention showing
a free-weight such as a barbell supported by overhead cables and
two stack-weight assemblies connected to the barbell;
[0027] FIG. 2 is a side elevation drawing of the apparatus showing
the overhead support cable assembly and its attachment to a
weight-responsive engagement assembly on a support column, an
adjustable pulley assembly for adjusting the geometry of the
stack-weight cable assembly and the drive apparatus for the
stack-weight height adjustment assembly;
[0028] FIG. 3 is a top view of the apparatus showing the drive
components of the stack-weight adjustment assembly and the grip
actuators mounted on the free-weight assembly.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a detail side elevation drawing of the apparatus
showing the stack-weights in the lowered position and stack-weight
adjustment assembly;
[0030] FIG. 5 is a detail side elevation of the weight-responsive
engagement assembly slideably engaged to a support column showing
pawl engagement with holes of the support column;
[0031] FIG. 6A is cross section drawing of a stop block of the
apparatus disengaged from the support column to allow vertical
adjustment of the stop block along the support column;
[0032] FIG. 6B is a cross section drawing of the spring-biased pin
of the stop block of FIG. 6A engaged to a hole in the support
column to lock the stop block on the support column and act as a
stop for the weight-responsive engagement assembly;
[0033] FIG. 7 is a detail side elevation drawing of the adjustable
pulley assembly showing engagement of a pin of the assembly to lock
the pulley assembly in position on a support column;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a detail schematic drawing of a cable support
collar providing mechanical connection between the overhead support
cable assembly and the free-weight bar, and electrical connection
between the grip actuators of the free-weight bar and the cable
assembly, and the stack-weight cable attached to a bracket on the
free-weight by a quick-release fastener;
[0035] FIG. 9A is a side elevation drawing of an operator exerting
vertical lifts of the free-weight assembly with the stack-weight
assemblies connected to the free-weight, the weight-engagement
assemblies disengaged to allow unrestrained free-weight motion and
the stop block defining the lowest position attainable by the
free-weight assembly;
[0036] FIG. 9B is a side elevation drawing of an operator exerting
pushing or "jamming" motion of the free-weight assembly with the
weight-responsive engagement assembly providing locked-cable
overhead support of the free-weight assembly by locking the support
cable to the frame and the stack-weight assembly providing a
pulling or restoring force on the free-weight assembly;
[0037] FIG. 9C is a side elevation drawing of an operator exerting
independent withdrawal of D-rings attached to the stack-weight
assemblies by their respective cables and quick-disconnect
fasteners; and
[0038] FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic diagram of the control
system of the combined free-weight and stack-weight assembly
showing the series connection of the grip actuators requiring
activation of both actuators to energize the solenoids of the
weight-responsive engagement assembly solenoids, the mode selector
switch, and the stack-weight adjustment toggle switch providing
power to the respective up or down winding of the motor through
respective limit switches.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0039] The following is a description of the preferred embodiments
of fitness apparatus combining free-weight and stack-weights to
provide improved functionality and performance for weight-training
equipment.
[0040] FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 show the front elevation, side elevation
and top views respectively of embodiment 101 of the fitness
apparatus. The apparatus provides at least two means of providing
lift resistance; free-weight assembly or barbell 102 comprising
free-weights 103A, 103B mountable on free-weight bar 105 and
adjustable resistance means 107 comprising stack-weight cables
109A, 109B connected between bar 105 and stack-weight assemblies
111A, 111B. The apparatus also provides an overhead conditional
support means 113 such as support cable assemblies 115A, 115B
connected between bar 105 and weight-responsive engagement
assemblies 117A, 117B engageable to support stands 119A, 119B of
the frame 145.
[0041] Bar 105 of free-weight assembly 102 provides a means for an
operator (not shown) to grasp and exert repetitive exercise motions
to improve strength and conditioning. Bar 105 may be moved
vertically as shown by arrows 106 or horizontally as shown by
arrows 108. Bar 105 provides a means for conventional fitting,
securing, and removing free-weights 103A, 103B by use of a
releasable attachment means such as removable spring clamps 121A,
121B and collars 123A, 123B. Other means of attaching free-weights
to bar 105 such as lock screw and threaded-bore collars may also be
used.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 2, adjustable resistance means 107
provides resistance for bar 105 by routing stack-weight cable 109B
connected to bar 105 through pulleys 125B of adjustable pulley
assembly 127B and bottom resistance pulley 129B so that force on
cable 109B from stack-weight assembly 111B provides a downward
force in the direction of gravity in the supported condition shown.
Stack-weight cable 109B is operatively engaged with pulley 137B of
stack-weight assembly 111B through pulleys 125B, 129B, 131B, 133B
and 135B. Pulleys 139B and 141B rout cable 109B to front column
143B of frame 145 via bracket 144B of adjustable pulley assembly
127B. Although right side components facing the apparatus are shown
and described in this section, left side components, except where
noted, are similar with similar functions.
[0043] Referring in addition to FIG. 4 (shown with stack weight
assembly 111B in the lowered position), pulley 137B, vertical guide
147B, guide rods 149B1, 149B2 and stack-weights 151B are
conventional in that pulley 137B is engageable to a selected bottom
stack-weight such as stack-weight 151B1 by an engagement rod 159B
fixed to guide 147B. Pin 153B, inserted through a hole 155B of the
selected weight engages a corresponding hole 157B of engagement rod
159B. Guide 147B provides a sliding fit with guide rods 149B1 and
149B2 and forms a mechanical connection between pulley 137B and
engagement rod 159B. Holes 161B1 and 161B2 in stack-weights 151B
provide a sliding fit with guide rods 149B1 and 149B2 and maintain
alignment of stack-weights 151B. Holes 163B of weights 151B provide
a sliding fit with engagement rod 159B.
[0044] Stack adjustment assembly 165B provides a means of raising
and lowering the stack-weights to facilitate adjustment of the
number of stack-weights 151B engaged to engagement rod 159B. Weight
adjustment assembly 165B comprises motor 167 operably driving lead
screws 169A, 169B via dual right-angle drive 171, drive shafts
173A, 173B, single right-angle drives 175A, 175B, and couplings
177A, 177B. Upper bearings 179A, 179B and lower bearings 181A, 181B
rotateably support lead screws 169A, 169B. As best seen in FIGS. 1
and 4, lead screw follower 183A, 183B, mounted on stack-weight
support brackets 185A, 185B engage respective lead screws 169A,
169B to position the support brackets 185A, 185B and stack-weights
supported on the bracket to the desired height. Lead screw 169B is
shown in fragmentary in FIG. 4 for clarity.
[0045] Positioning stack-weight support brackets 185A, 185B to the
existing height of the engaged stack-weight permits removal of the
respective engagement pin 153A, 153B without dropping the engaged
weigh. Engagement pins 153A, and 153B may then be re-inserted in
the new desired bottom stack-weight and the support brackets 185A,
185B lowered. Alternatively, the ends of stack-weight cables 109A,
109B attached to brackets 144A, 144B can be re-positioned by
adjustment of adjustable pulley assemblies 127A, 127B height to
temporarily lower the selected stack-weight assemblies for
adjustment and then re-positioning.
[0046] Conditional support means 113 of the apparatus comprises a
weight-responsive engagement assembly 117A, 117B that conditionally
supports the weight of free-weight assembly 102 (and any downward
force provided from adjustable resistance means 107) against
gravity or external downward forces via cable assemblies 115A,
115B, and overhead pulleys 187A, 187B, and 189A, 189B.
Weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 117B engage one of a
plurality of holes (505 of FIG. 5) in back of respective support
columns 119A, 119B. Only column 119B is shown in FIG. 2, the other
side is similar.
[0047] FIG. 5 is a side elevation detail drawing showing pawl 501
of pawl assembly 503 of weight engagement assembly 117B engaging
hole 505A of column 119B. Armature 507 of solenoid 509B pulls
downward on lever 511 of pawl assembly 503 to bias pawl 501 in a
disengaged direction 513A. Solenoids 509A, 509B from each of the
respective weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 117B are
energized from grip actuators or grip sensors 191A, 191B attached
to weight bar 105 as shown in FIG. 8. Pawl assembly 503 pivots
about pivot pin 515 to engage and disengage pawl 501 from the holes
of column 119B as shown in the phantom lines. Helical spring 519,
acting on lever 511, provides bias on pawl assembly 503 in the
engaging direction 513B.
[0048] The disengagement bias of solenoid 509B is greater than the
engagement bias provided by helical spring 519, but is selected to
be insufficient to withdraw pawl 501 from hole 505A when the full
weight of free-weight assembly 102 is acting in the direction of
gravity, represented by force arrow 502. This is due to the shape
of pawl 501 and friction with the upper portion of hole 505A when a
significant upward force is provided to assembly 117B.
Disengagement of pawl 501 from hole 505A requires lift support of a
substantial (and preferably most or all) of the combined downward
forces on free-weight assembly 102 resulting in reduction of force
502.
[0049] The shape and geometry of pawl assembly 503 and the strength
characteristics of solenoid 509 require at least part, and
preferably all, of the weight supported by the weight-responsive
engagement assemblies 117A, 117B is borne by an operator before
pawl 503 is able to disengage from hole 505A. The effective weight
acting on the weight-responsive engagement assemblies will normally
be the weight of free-weight assembly 102 (bar 105 and free-weights
103A, 103B) and downward force 193 resulting from stack-weight
assembly 111A, 111B acting through cables 109A, 109B.
[0050] Weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 111B improve
safety of the apparatus by ensuring that all, or a substantial
amount of the total downward forces acting on bar 105 of
free-weight assembly 102 are supported by the operator before
weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 117B are disengaged
from respective columns 119A, 119B. The weight of weight-responsive
engagement assembly 117B is sufficient to allow downward movement
of the assembly on column 119B when disengaged from support column
119B and the operator raises weight 102. Additional weight may be
added to the assembly to prevent cable slackening during operation
of the apparatus.
[0051] Holes 521B1, 521B2 retain tabs 523B1, 523B2 of guide
bushings 525 and 527. Pin 529 of attachment block 531 attaches
cable assembly 115B to weight-responsive engagement assembly 117B.
Construction and operation of weight-responsive engagement assembly
117A is similar.
[0052] Stop block 193B of FIG. 2 provides a back up means to
provide support of free-weight assembly 102. Stop block 193B
engages holes 505 of support column 119B to prevent upward movement
of weight-responsive engagement assembly 117B beyond the set
position of block 193B. This engagement to column 119B prevents
downward motion of free-weight assembly 102 beyond the position set
by stop block 193B.
[0053] FIG. 6A is an elevation cross sectional drawing of stop 193B
and support column 119B. In this figure, adjustment bar 601 is
depressed, for example by finger or hand pressure in direction 603,
withdrawing pin 605 against spring 607 bias. In the withdrawn
position, pin 605 does not engage holes such as holes 505 of column
119B, and stop 193B is free to move up and down along column 119B
in vertical directions 609. In the preferred embodiments, stop 193B
forms a sliding clearance with column 119B. Handgrip 611 provides
surfaces for raising and lowering stop 193B and a reaction surface
for insertion of bar 601 by a hand. A similar stop 193A on column
119A is not shown but is similar in construction and operation.
[0054] FIG. 6B is an elevation cross sectional drawing of stop 193B
and column 119B with adjustment bar 601 released. Helical spring
607 biases cross bar 613, pin 605, and adjustment bar 601 in the
direction of arrow 615. Upon alignment of a hole such as hole 505B
in column 119B with pin 605, helical spring 607 biases pin 605 into
hole 505B and fixes stop block 193B to support column 119B.
[0055] FIG. 7 is an elevation cross section drawing of adjustable
pulley assembly 127B of FIG. 2. Pulley engagement block 701
slideably engages column 119B to allow vertical movement 702 of
block 701 when pin 703 is disengaged from column 143B. In the
normal position shown, helical spring 705 biases disengagement
lever 707 towards the pin-engaged direction shown. When an operator
moves disengagement lever 707 in the direction of arrow 709, lever
portion 711 withdraws pin 703 from hole 713, releasing pulley
assembly 127B for vertical adjustment. Pulley bracket 715 supports
pulleys 125B from engagement block 701. Bracket 144B provides a
means for adjusting the bottom position of stack-weight 111B via
cable 109B, by changing the effective length of cable 109B. In
other embodiments, bracket 144B is a separate adjustable bracket
assembly positionable along one of the structural members of frame
145 such as column 143B.
[0056] FIG. 8 is a detail schematic diagram of cable attachment
assembly 801B and bracket 803B on weight bar 105. Support cable
attachment assembly 801B provides mechanical connection for cable
assembly 115B to weight bar 105 and electrical connection for grip
sensor 191B to cable 115B1. Stack-weight cable attachment bracket
803B provides mechanical connection between quick-release fastener
805B of stack-weight cable 109B and weight bar 105. In the
preferred embodiments, cable assembly 115B is a dual cable assembly
comprising two cables 115B1, 115B2. Two cables provide back-up
reliability should a cable or connector fail. In the preferred
embodiment, stack-weight cable assembly 109B, connected to
quick-release fastener 805B comprises a single cable.
[0057] Support collar portion 802B comprises two crimp connectors
807B1, 807B2 for crimping the ends of the respective cables 115B1,
115B2 to form loops 809B1, 809B2 encircling weight bar 105. Inner
collar 811B, fixed to bar 105 by setscrew 813, provides a means for
electrical contact of a grip sensor such as a pressure sensitive
switch or touch sensor 191B on bar 105. A brush 815 on inside
collar 811B contacts slip ring 817 of support collar portion 802B
to transfer an electrical signal from sensor 191B to cable
115B1.
[0058] Inner collar 811B utilizes a drilled passage 819 for routing
lead 821 of grip actuator or touch sensor 191B between inner
setscrew 823 and outer setscrew 825. Helical spring 827 provides
bias on brush 815 to make sliding electrical contact with slip ring
817 and provides electrical contact between inner setscrew 823 and
brush 815. Spring clip 829 provides electrical contact between slip
ring 817 of support collar 802B and cable 115B1 at crimp connector
807B1. Inner collar 811B and support collar 802B are made of a
high-strength insulative material such as a high-strength plastic
to ensure non-shorting contact between the electrical components of
the assemblies.
[0059] Outer collar 831B is clamped to bar 105 by setscrew 833.
Alternatively, the collars may be split collars and clamped to bar
105 by clamp screws and nuts such as clamp screw 835 and clamp nut
837 of inner collar 811B. The clamping arrangement retains support
collar 802B and stack-weight cable attachment bracket 803B in the
desired axial location on bar 105 while allowing partial rotation
of bar 105 with respect to support collar 802B. Stop 835 of bar
105, engageable with a radial slot (not shown) in collar 802B,
provides a means to limit rotation of bar 105 to positions
retaining contact of touch sensor 191B with the hand of an
user.
[0060] FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C are side elevation drawings showing
methods of use of free and stack-weight fitness apparatus 101. FIG.
9A shows use of the apparatus for lifting exercises against the
combined downward force of free-weight assembly 102 and the
downward force provided by stack-weight assemblies 111A, 111B
transmitted by cables 109A, 109B (only right side components are
shown in this view, left side components are similar). Support
cables 115A, 115B, connected to weight-responsive engagement
assemblies 117A, 117B provide overhead support of the combined
downward force until released by the operator gripping grip sensors
191A, 191B and at least part of the downward force on free-weight
assembly 102 counteracted by a lift force applied by the operator
as previously described.
[0061] The desired lift point where stack-weights 111A, 111B
provide lift resistance (or positioning for stack-weight
adjustment) are determined by stack-weight assembly support bracket
185A, 185B positions adjusted by foot or toggle switch 1005 (FIGS.
3 and 10). Alternatively, adjustment of pulley assembly 127A, 127B
along the respective support columns 119A, 119B adjust the position
of stack-weight assemblies 111A, 111B. Activation of disengagement
lever 707 and vertical adjustment of the respective pulley
assemblies 127A, 127B retracts or withdraws the end of cables 109A,
109B at brackets 144A, 144B to position pulleys 137A, 137B and the
respective stack-weight assemblies.
[0062] Pulley assemblies 127A, 127B may also be positioned above
free-weight assembly 102 so that the force exerted by stack-weight
cables 109A, 109B act upward and therefore counteract free-weights
on free-weight assembly 102. It is possible to add stack-weights or
reduce free-weights until little or no net weight remains on
free-weight assembly 102. This position is useful, for example in
rehabilitation therapy, when it is desirable to reduce the
effective weight of free-weight assembly 102 while still retaining
inertia in the system. In still other training, stack-weight force
acting upward may exceed free-weights acting downward, resulting in
"negative" weight training.
[0063] Stop blocks 193A, 193B define the lowest position of
free-weight assembly 102. Both adjustment of free weights 103A,
103B on free-weight assembly 102 and engagement of the desired
number of stack-weights 151A, 151B of stack-weight assemblies 111A,
111B as described earlier determine the total lift force required
to lift free-weight assembly 102. For any static position of
free-weight assembly 102, stack-weights 151A, 151B may be changed
by raising stack-weight assembly support brackets 185A, 185B with
toggle switch 1005 until brackets 185A, 185B support weights
currently engaged to engagement rod 159A, 159B of FIG. 4. At that
point, pins 153A, 153B may be removed and re-set for the desired
stack-weight, and stack-weight assembly support brackets 185A, 185B
lowered to the desired position by toggle switch 1005. Mode switch
1004 (FIGS. 3 and 10) is in its "normal" mode position, allowing
disengagement of weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 117B
upon operator support of free-weight assembly 102.
[0064] FIG. 9B shows another method of use of apparatus 101 in a
push or "jamming" mode. In this mode, vertical support of
free-weight assembly is maintained either automatically (since
little or no lift force is applied to free-weight assembly 102), or
by placing the mode switch 1004 of FIG. 10 in the "jamming" (open)
position. In this position, weight-responsive engagement assemblies
117A, 117B remain engaged to support columns 119A, 119B regardless
of the operator gripping actuators of weight bar 105, or supporting
the full weight of free-weight assembly 102. Stop blocks 193A, 193B
provide additional protection from loss of vertical support by
defining the lowest position allowed by free-weight assembly 102
(highest positions of weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A,
117B). This method allows the operator to exert primarily
horizontal forces on free-weight assembly 102 as shown by arrows
902 and a restoring force is provided by locked support of cable
assemblies 115A, 115B and stack-weight pulling from cables 109A,
109B.
[0065] FIG. 9C shows yet another mode for use of apparatus 101 by
connection of D-rings 901A, 901B to quick-release fasteners 805A,
805B of cables 109A, 109B. In this mode, stack-weight assemblies
111A, 111B operate independently to provide resistance to extension
of cables 109A, 109B. Pulley assemblies 127A, 127B provides a means
to adjust cable 109A, 109B extension/withdrawal geometry. Toggle
switch 1005 provides a means to adjust the fully-retracted position
of cables 109A, 109B. Mode switch 104 is placed in the
independent/jamming mode to ensure engagement of weight-responsive
engagement assemblies 117A, 117B.
[0066] FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic diagram of the control
system 1001 of a preferred embodiment the apparatus for use with a
free-weight assembly 102 or individual hand fitness components such
as barbells or D-rings 901A, 901B of FIG. 9C. Contacts 191A, 191B
represent engagement (closed) or disengagement (open) of the
respective grip switches or grip sensors of free-weight bar 105.
Contacts 191A, 191B may be discrete switches such as
pressure-sensitive switches or push-button switches connected in
series on bar 105, or they may be mechanical or electronic relays
associated with touch sensors such as capacitance sensors as
further disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,749,538, hereby incorporated
by reference.
[0067] The series connection of contacts 191A, 191B require both
grip sensors 191A, 191B to be actuated simultaneously to energize
solenoids 509A, 509B on respective weight-responsive engagement
assemblies 117A, 117B. Mode switch 1004, located on a convenient
location such as column 143B, provides power to solenoids 509A,
509B only if in the "normal" mode as shown. In the
"independent/jamming" modes, solenoids 509A, 509B of respective
weight-responsive engagement assemblies 117A, 117B are inoperative
even if grip sensors 191A, 191B are activated. Low voltage power
supply 1001, connected to an AC power receptacle 1003, provides low
voltage power for operation of the solenoids.
[0068] Toggle switch 1005 provides power to the respective "up
direction" motor winding 1007 through top limit switch 1008 to
raise stack-weight support brackets 185A, 185B or "down direction"
motor winding 1009 through bottom limit switch 1010 to lower
stack-weight support brackets 185A, 185B. In the preferred
embodiments, toggle switch 1005 is a momentary SPDT switch and is
located on a convenient location of frame 145 such as column
143B.
[0069] Electrical connection of grip sensors 191A, 191B on weight
bar 105 is made through cable attachment assembly 801A, 801B, and
cables 111A1, 111B1 to respective attachment block 531A, 531B
connectors 510A, 510B. In the case where grip actuators 191A, 191B
are touch sensors, an input from each connector 510A, 510B is made
to a touch sensor controller providing relay outputs to solenoids
509A, 509B shown in FIG. 10. Connections to solenoids 509A, 509B is
made by coiled cables 512A, 512B. In the case where switch contacts
such as pressure sensitive switches are used as grip actuators,
both switches are connected in series on bar 105 and one connector
510A is connected to power supply 1001 and the other connector 510B
is connected to both solenoids 509A, 509B of weight-responsive
engagement assemblies 117A, 117B by coiled cables (not shown).
[0070] Accordingly the reader will see that the Combination Free
and Stack-Weight Fitness Apparatus provides a self-spotting
free-weight exercise machine that utilizes both free-weights and
stack-weights to provide the desired fitness training. The device
provides the following additional advantages: [0071] The apparatus
requires that the user lift the substantial weight of the
free-weight before the support cables are disengaged from the
support assemblies; [0072] Once the free-weight is disengaged from
the support assemblies, the user may exercise the free-weight in an
independent manner, allowing unrestricted vertical movement of one
end with respect to the other end; [0073] Loosening of the grip by
either hand of the user immediately engages the engagement blocks
and locks the free-weight support cables to reduce the likelihood
of dropping or injury; [0074] The operator can quickly and easily
change the total weight resistance provided by the apparatus;
[0075] The apparatus is useful for pushing or "jamming" mode
training; [0076] Auxiliary stops provide a lower limit for
free-weight travel; and [0077] The design allows independent
training using D-rings or dumbbells.
[0078] Although the description above contains many specifications,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the
presently preferred embodiments of this invention. For example, the
columns of the weight support assembly may be inclined to the
vertical. Or, a single support column and support cable may be
used. Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the
appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the
examples given.
* * * * *