U.S. patent application number 11/733271 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-08 for vibrationary exercise equipment.
This patent application is currently assigned to South Bank University Enterprises Ltd.. Invention is credited to Roger Leslie Brown, David Paul Sumners.
Application Number | 20070259759 11/733271 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39432832 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070259759 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sumners; David Paul ; et
al. |
November 8, 2007 |
VIBRATIONARY EXERCISE EQUIPMENT
Abstract
An exercise apparatus including a fluid pump means operated by
movement of the user and control means arranged for intermittently
varying fluid flow in the pump means thereby forming a vibration
facility to impart vibration to the user.
Inventors: |
Sumners; David Paul;
(Middlesbrough, GB) ; Brown; Roger Leslie;
(London, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ANTHONY R. BARKUME
20 GATEWAY LANE
MANORVILLE
NY
11949
US
|
Assignee: |
South Bank University Enterprises
Ltd.
London
GB
|
Family ID: |
39432832 |
Appl. No.: |
11/733271 |
Filed: |
April 10, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10507150 |
Apr 6, 2005 |
7214170 |
|
|
11733271 |
Apr 10, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/92 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2201/0153 20130101;
A63B 21/0087 20130101; A61H 2201/1676 20130101; A61H 1/024
20130101; F16F 9/3228 20130101; A63B 2225/15 20130101; A63B
21/00196 20130101; A63B 2225/30 20130101; A63B 21/00069 20130101;
A63B 21/4017 20151001; A61H 2201/164 20130101; A61H 23/0263
20130101; A63B 21/06 20130101; A63B 21/00058 20130101; A61H
2201/1607 20130101; A63B 24/00 20130101; F16F 2232/06 20130101;
A63B 21/0628 20151001; A63B 21/0083 20130101; A63B 24/0075
20130101; A63B 23/0494 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/092 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise apparatus comprising a fluid pump means operated by
movement of the user and control means arranged for intermittently
varying fluid flow in said pump means thereby forming a vibration
facility to impart vibration to the user.
2. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the vibration
frequency is from 1 Hz to 100 Hz.
3. Apparatus as claimed in claim 2 and wherein the vibration
frequency is from 10 Hz to 35 Hz.
4. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and comprising a piston cylinder
arrangement whereby tension and compression are effected as between
said piston, via a connecting rod, and said cylinder.
5. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4 and wherein a fluid circuit is
connected between both sides of said piston and arranged to carry
the vibration facility.
6. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4 and having a bleed through said
piston.
7. Apparatus a claimed in claim 4 and having a non-return valve
enabling a different resistance to be obtained as between tensile
and compression movement.
8. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4, and having a pressure relief
valve enabling a different resistance to be obtained as between
tensile and compression movement.
9. Apparatus as claimed in claim 7 and wherein said non-return
valve is located in said piston.
10. Apparatus as claimed in claim 8 and wherein said pressure
relief valve is located in said piston.
11. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein said fluid pump
means also incorporates static resistance means whereby said fluid
pump imposes the load as well as the vibration on the user.
12. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 and arranged to load the user
in both directions, push and pull, compression and tension.
13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and which is portable for use
in one hand or between a user's two hands for arm strengthening and
"chest expanding".
14. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 and having a restrictor or
pressure relief valve means for providing the static load.
15. Apparatus as claimed in claim 14 and wherein said restrictor or
pressure relief valve means are adjustable to provide different
loads.
16. Apparatus as claimed in claim 15 and equipped with an indicator
of the load being applied.
17. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 and having a non-return valve
arranged to enable the load to differ as between the two
directions.
18. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 and having a control cock
arranged to block or open said non-return valve and convert the
apparatus between uni-directional and bi-directional strength
training.
19. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 and wherein the vibration is
arranged to differ as between push and pull.
20. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the fluid is a
gas.
21. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the fluid is a
liquid.
22. Apparatus as claimed in claim 20 and wherein the gas is at a
pressure between 2.5 bar and 4.5 bar.
23. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and comprising an operating bar
arranged to be pushed and/or pulled by a user, and a base and
wherein said fluid pump means is interposed between said bar and
said base.
24. Apparatus as claimed in claim 23 and wherein said fluid pump
means is constructed as a retrofit to an existing weight training
equipment.
25. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and having at least one
motorised valve arranged for generating the vibration.
26. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25 and wherein said at least one
motorised valve is a solenoid valve.
27. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25 and wherein said at least one
valve is a rotary valve.
28. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 and wherein a plurality of
solenoid valves are employed in a bridge configuration.
29. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 and wherein a plurality of
solenoid valves have independent regulators enabling the provision
of random vibration.
30. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 and wherein said at least one
solenoid valve is arranged to be OPEN when unpowered.
31. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 and wherein said at least one
solenoid valve is a Festo.TM. low latency solenoid valve type
MHE2-S with a 2 ms latency.
32. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25 and having an electric motor
arranged for driving said rotary valve.
33. Apparatus as claimed in claim 32 and wherein said motor is a
stepper motor employing electronic commutation and having multiple
poles.
34. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the vibration is
arranged for at least one of random or pseudo random amplitude and
frequency.
35. Apparatus as claimed in claim 27 and wherein said valve
comprises (i) a housing containing a fluid flow path with a central
axis, (ii) a plug having a sealing face cooperating with said
housing in the closed position to block the fluid path, and (iii) a
support shaft arranged to carry said plug means and being rotatable
on an axis which is normal to and spaced from the axis of said
valve seat and located outside of the flow path so that rotation of
the said shaft moves said plug means relative to said housing.
36. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25 and wherein said valve is
arranged to permit a small throughput of fluid therethrough when
the valve is ostensibly closed.
37. Apparatus as claimed in claim 27 and wherein the rotary valve
obturator has a groove therearound to permit a small throughput of
fluid therethrough when the valve is in a closed configuration.
38. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and having a damping structure
to provide user comfort.
39. Apparatus as claimed in claim 38 and which is a muscle
strengthening apparatus having a bar arranged for bearing upon the
lower part of a user's shins whereby the user moves said bar
against an adjustable weight.
40. Apparatus as claimed in claim 38 and wherein the damping
structure comprises a plastics foam.
41. Apparatus as claimed in claim 40 and wherein said foam is one
which under the influence of body warmth and pressure distorts to
mould itself to the profile of that part of the body applying the
force.
42. Apparatus as claimed in claim 41 and wherein said foam
comprises Conforfoam.TM. type "CF-47 green" produced by E.A.R.
Speciality Composites.
43. Strength training apparatus comprising a member movable by a
user against a resistance, the member having a layer of foam with
minimum vibration damping characteristics, and a vibration
generator.
44. Apparatus as claimed in claim 43 and wherein said vibration
generator is embedded in said foam.
45. Apparatus as claimed in claim 43 and wherein said foam
comprises Conforfoam.TM. type "CF-47 green" produced by E.A.R.
Specialty Composites.
46. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein said vibration is
arranged to be aligned with the direction of loading.
47. Apparatus as claimed in claim 43 and wherein said vibration is
arranged to be aligned with the direction of loading.
48. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and wherein the direction of
vibration is adjustable.
49. Apparatus as claimed in claim 47 and having a motor arranged to
drive a crank coupled through a connecting rod to a crosshead to
which is attached a relatively large mass, the crosshead being
constrained by guide bars to shuttle linearly.
50. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and having a data entry device
arranged for programming the operation thereof.
51. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 and having a readout device
arranged for indicating the weight and/or vibration applied and the
amplitude of apparatus expansion or compression.
52. Apparatus as claimed in claim 4 and wherein said vibration
facility comprises a rod carrying a helix and a disc held to said
piston and mounted on said rod so that movement of said piston
along said cylinder causes said disc to rotate, there being
channels through said piston and said disc which are thereby
intermittently aligned.
53. An exercise apparatus comprising (i) a resistance means
arranged to provide resistance to a movement by a user and (ii) a
vibration means arranged to impart a vibration to the user,
wherein: said vibration means acts on a muscle or muscle group
being exercised; said vibration means comprises a piston,
connecting rod and cylinder arrangement and a fluid flow connection
between both sides of the piston and at least one valve interposed
in said fluid flow and arranged for intermittent opening and
closing at a frequency between 1 Hz and 100 Hz; and said resistance
means is selected from free weights, a weight machine, a spring
resistance, an hydraulic resistance and a pneumatic resistance.
54. An exercise apparatus comprising: resistance means arranged to
provide adjustable resistance to a movement by a user; vibration
means arranged to impart a vibration to the user's muscle or muscle
group being exercised; an input device arranged for converting an
input signal into controls for said resistance means and said
vibration means; an output device arranged to provide an indication
of the programme completed; and wherein said vibration means
comprises a piston, connecting rod and cylinder arrangement and a
fluid flow connection between both sides of the piston and at least
one valve interposed in said fluid flow and arranged for
intermittent opening and closing at a frequency between 1 Hz and
100 Hz; and said resistance means is selected from free weights, a
weight machine, a spring resistance, an hydraulic resistance and a
pneumatic resistance.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.
10/507,150 filed 12 Mar. 2003, which is incorporated in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to exercise equipment and is
particularly concerned with such sports, exercise, wellbeing and
medical training and therapeutic equipment having the facility to
combine vibration with mechanical loading on the muscles and bone
structure of users.
[0003] The use of vibration in the context of strength training
(where the expression strength training is being used herein to
describe any exercise facility in which a load is applied to
muscles of a user) induces a non-voluntary muscular contraction
called the "tonic vibration reflex". Weight training with
additional vibration has been shown to augment strength and power
over and above that achieved with strength training alone. This
effect is achieved through the recruitment of additional muscle
fibres above the normal recruitment level. Vibration has also
become a common tool used in the retardation of muscle and bone
atrophy on earth and in space.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
[0004] Currently commercially available weight training devices
rely either on un-modulated loads or full body vibration. These
devices apply no vibrational loading at all, or fail to apply
directly specific frequencies to targeted muscle groups. Some such
full-body vibration systems can also quickly lead to discomfort and
other negative physical side effects.
[0005] A publication in Journal of Sport Sciences 1999, 17, 177-182
discloses the effect of vibrationary stimulation on bilateral
biceps curl exercises. According to this publication the
superimposed vibration during the exercise was transmitted to the
muscles by a specially designed vibratory stimulation device. This
consisted of an electric motor with a speed reduction facility and
eccentric wheel. The load was held by a cable passed through the
eccentric wheel via pulleys. The eccentric rotation elicited
peak-to-peak oscillations of 3 mm with a frequency of 44 Hz. After
vibration damping caused by cable transmission, the acceleration on
the handle was about 30 m/s.sup.-2 (RMS). Vibration from the
two-arms handle was transmitted through the contacting muscles
involved in the pulling action.
[0006] A particular disadvantage associated with the use of
vibration which is directly electrically generated is the
difficulty of applying the vibration directly to the user
throughout the various configurations of the equipment. There is a
mismatch between the mechanical and electrical operation which
impedes obtaining maximum benefit from the application of
vibration. Moreover non-smooth contraction of muscle has been
observed in weight training equipment utilizing electric motor
driven vibration devices.
[0007] We have now devised an improved apparatus for enabling
vibration to be transmitted to a person exercising.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0008] According to the present invention an exercise apparatus
comprises a fluid pump means operated by movement of the user and
control means arranged for intermittently varying fluid flow in the
pump means thereby to impart vibration to the user.
[0009] A vibration frequency to provide benefit may be from 1 Hz to
100 Hz, preferably from 10 Hz to 35 Hz. Where this is obtained in a
rotary or oscillating, eg solenoid, valve, closure of the valve
every 0.1 to 0.3 seconds for a period which may be 50%, but could
be more or less of the time, ie 0.05 to 0.015 seconds the user will
experience for a very short period an increase in resistance
superimposed on that of the real or simulated weight.
[0010] According to a feature of the invention the fluid pump means
may also incorporate static resistance means whereby the fluid pump
imposes the load as well as the vibration on the user.
[0011] Advantageously the exercise apparatus may comprise a piston
cylinder arrangement whereby tension and compression are effected
as between the piston, via a connecting rod, and the cylinder. Then
a fluid circuit connected to the interior of the cylinder on both
sides of the piston can be arranged to carry the vibration
facility.
[0012] By this means the exercise apparatus can readily be arranged
to load the user in both directions, push and pull, compression and
tension. It can be made relatively compact so as to be portable for
use in one hand or between a user's two hands for arm strengthening
and "chest expanding", although arrangements for such operation
between other parts of the anatomy are also readily possible.
[0013] The static load can be realized in a restrictor or pressure
relief valve means, which are advantageously adjustable to provide
different loads and equipped with an indicator of the load being
applied. By use of a non-return valve for example the load can be
arranged to differ as between the two directions, while a control
cock arranged to block or open the non-return valve can be employed
to convert the apparatus between uni-directional and bi-directional
strength training.
[0014] A perhaps non-adjustable part (or whole) of the resistance
to motion can be obtained in a bleed through the piston, with
differential load being obtained via a non-return valve and or a
pressure relief valve also if necessary located in the piston The
vibration can readily be arranged to differ as between push and
pull as well.
[0015] The fluid may be a gas such as air or nitrogen or a liquid
such as an hydraulic liquid. If, in the case of a liquid, damping
of the vibration is desired and is not achievable by padding with,
for example, foam, or by employing a viscous liquid as the medium,
a gas cushion or valve device may be incorporated to achieve
this.
[0016] Where gas is employed, it has been found that compressing
the gas to a pressure of 4.5 bar creates an effective transmission
of reactive force without excessive damping. Pressures from 2.5 bar
up to 4.5 bar provide progressively less damping action and thus
the absolute pressure to which the system is primed can be used to
effect the maximum reactive force generated and the damping
characteristic of the vibration effect felt by the user.
[0017] According to another feature of the invention the fluid pump
means may be interposed between an operating bar arranged to be
pushed and/or pulled by a user, and a base, which may be a static
part of the apparatus. It is preferable for the fluid pump means to
be linked to the operating bar substantially directly to avoid
losses and unwanted damping of the vibration. Such a fluid pump
vibration means can readily be constructed as a retrofit to an
existing weight training equipment.
[0018] The vibration may be generated in the fluid pump means by a
motorised valve incorporated therein. The valve may be a solenoid
valve, diaphragm valve or a rotary valve inter alia.
[0019] In the case of a solenoid valve of the type constructed to
operate with fluid flow in only one direction a bridge
configuration may be employed. Often also solenoid valves have
limited flow rate capacity for a given reasonable power or a high
flow resistance. The employment of an array of such valves in
parallel to overcome this can confer a particularly significant
advantage, discussed below, that of applying random vibration.
[0020] It is often desirable to employ vibration only when lifting
a weight or in a single direction of motion of the equipment and
this apparatus in accordance with the invention can readily be
arranged for this to occur. Where solenoid valves are used the
preferred unpowered valve status is OPEN such that until powered
the solenoid valve will allow free passage of fluid.
[0021] A preferred solenoid valve is the Festo.TM. low latency
solenoid valve type MHE2-S with a 2 ms (two microsecond) latency
and employing internal electronics to permit fast switching.
[0022] If one or more rotary valves are used instead of solenoid
valves, these can be readily be driven by one or more electric
motors, which may be AC or DC and brush, induction or homopolar
motors. Ideally the motor operation is so controlled that speed or
speeds can be set selected and controlled to an accuracy of 10%,
preferably 1%.
[0023] A yet alternative motor is a stepper motor employing
electronic commutation and multiple poles such as 2 pole, 4 pole,
or 5 pole fixed coil arrangements and multiple poles on the rotor.
This enables half- or micro stepping, allowing for example 200
micro steps per revolution of 1.8.degree. per step. The rate of
revolution can be set by a hardware or software clock signal
applied to selected coils by a dedicated integrated circuit or
discrete electronic hardware control circuits. This makes a stepper
motor particularly suitable in contexts where a variety of valve
speeds is desired. When operating a stepper motor the rate of coil
or coil-pair energisation and thus rotary speed is controlled by
the rate of application of electronic signals. As the rate of
energisation may be varied to produce a range of speeds, and the
specific poles selected with respect to their disposition around
the rotor is also selectable, there is a measure of control
available that allows the angular speed to vary within less than
one revolution per second. Thus random or pseudo random variability
in valve opening and closing times may be effected through control
of the stepper motor coil energisation order and speed.
[0024] As has been indicated above, it is particularly advantageous
for the applied vibration to be arranged for random or even pseudo
random amplitude and frequency. The effect on muscle development of
such an arrangement is particularly marked. By pseudo random is
meant a cycle of variation long enough to be substantially
unpredictable to the user. Pseudo random variation can be obtained
using two motorised valves, solenoid or rotary inter alia, in
parallel in the fluid flow circuit, and arranged to operate at
different speeds. Thus the combined resistance created varies over
time as valve open and closed times move into and out of
synchronicity.
[0025] The rotary motor driven valve itself may be an offset valve
of the type disclosed in PCT Patent Application PCT/GB2006/050314
and UK Patent Application 0520195.9. This valve comprises (i) a
housing containing a fluid flow path with a central axis, (ii) a
plug having a sealing face cooperating with said housing in the
closed position to block the fluid path, and (iii) a support shaft
arranged to carry said plug means and being rotatable on an axis
which is normal to and spaced from the axis of said valve seat and
located outside of the flow path so that rotation of the said shaft
moves said plug means relative to said housing. The shape of the
vibration pulse obtained with such a rotary valve will depend upon
the nature of the valve core offset and the shape and size of the
core recess.
[0026] Advantages of a valve of this kind are that (1) when fully
open there is no occlusion of the opening, and (2) the valve opens
and closes only once per revolution. This latter reduces or
obviates the gearing which might otherwise be required when
employing a motor the normal speed of which would otherwise impose
too high a vibration frequency.
[0027] Whatever the type of valve employed, when a liquid rather
than a gas is employed as the fluid, it may be advantageous to
permit a small throughput of fluid even when the valve is
ostensibly closed. With a rotary valve this may be achieved with an
appropriate passage through the obturator or a groove
therearound.
[0028] Many weight training equipments carry some form of dampening
structure to provide user comfort, particularly those equipments
which bear upon the user's shins for example. Normally this might
comprise a plastics foam, particularly one which under the
influence of body warmth and pressure distorts to mould itself to
the profile of that part of the body applying the force. It would
be expected that the use of such foams would largely attenuate the
transmission of vibrations. However Conforfoam.TM. type "CF-47
green" produced by E.A.R. Speciality Composites has been found to
have good vibration transmission characteristics without
compromising comfort.
[0029] It may in fact be advantageous, not least from the point of
view of simplicity of retrofit or upgrade assembly, when employing
a foam having good vibration transmission characteristics, to
locate a vibration generating device within the operating arm of an
exercise machine, including within the foam itself.
[0030] There is some evidence to suggest that random direction
vibration may be counter-productive to the efficacy of vibrated
training and that applying the vibration in the direction of muscle
stress yields the better results with reduced fatigue and reduced
potential nausea. A linear vibration mechanism can be achieved
using a fluid circuit as herein described though retrofit in the
arm or foam can be simpler if an electric motor is used to generate
the vibration. The motor may be arranged to drive a crank coupled
through a connecting rod to a crosshead to which is attached a
relatively large mass, the crosshead being constrained by guide
bars to shuttle linearly. Other mechanisms for translating rotary
motion to linear may of course be used.
[0031] A typical application of this embodiment of the invention is
in a leg-extension training apparatus. An arm pivoted at a point
coinciding with the user's knee joints is, in this application,
associated with training weights and carries a padded bar arranged
for bearing low on the legs of the user, a linear vibration device
being located within or inside the padding and arranged so that in
operation the vibration is in the same direction as the force
applied to lift the weight.
[0032] By employing motorised variable flow resistance control
valves in conjunction with microprocessor based controllers the
equipment may be arranged to read smart cards, swipe cards or other
data entry means including keypads, touch screens, voice control or
wirelessly linked data transfer using RFID or other technologies.
In this way the apparatus may be adjusted to suit an individual
user's training and physiological characteristics and specified
programme, according to real time software algorithms, look up
tables or other rules or pre-programmed sequences.
[0033] It may be desired to incorporate readout devices for
indicating the weight and/or vibration applied and the amplitude of
apparatus expansion or compression. To those skilled in the art
there are many ways of detecting the position and direction of
motion of parts of strength training apparatus in accordance with
the invention, including microswitches, electrically resistive
means, capacitive and inductive sensors, opto-electronic devices,
Hall Effect magnetic devices, reed switches or other similar
components which may be read sequentially or incrementally by
interaction with moving parts of the equipment. Electronic means
including simple circuit arrangements creating sequential state
machines or more sophisticated arrangements including stored memory
devices such as RAM or other temporary storage means may be used,
preferably with a microprocessor to control the recording or
processing of information about the order of events such that this
information may be used to switch the vibration inducing solenoid
OPEN for a particular part of the cycle of operation or control
other features of the performance, such as mark-space ratio or if
the weight simulating valves are motorised the balance between
vibrated and background resistance generated by the apparatus or
other parameter thereof. In this case the electronic means of
control can be arranged to apply selectively the vibration
resistance to the user and control the level and timing of all
resistive elements of the load application.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] Various embodiments of the invention will now be described
by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, of
which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of the invention
attached to an exercise machine;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a front view of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 3 is one disc used in a different embodiment of the
invention;
[0038] FIG. 4 is a second disc;
[0039] FIG. 5 shows the discs of FIGS. 2 and 3 in position;
[0040] FIG. 6 shows a breathing apparatus using the invention;
[0041] FIG. 7 shows a hydraulic damping system applied to a weight
machine;
[0042] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a simple "stand alone" two-way
vibrationary muscle training device;
[0043] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a simple "stand alone" one-way
vibrationary muscle training device;
[0044] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a closed circuit vibration
device for fitment in a weight training apparatus and pneumatic
solenoid valve operated;
[0045] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a closed circuit vibration
device for fitment in a weight training apparatus and having
hydraulic and by-pass valves;
[0046] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a closed circuit vibration
device operated by a motorised rotary valve;
[0047] FIG. 13 depicts a cutaway valve core used in an offset
rotary valve arranged for one closure per revolution;
[0048] FIG. 14 is a schematic section of a rotary valve having a
core as shown in FIG. 6;
[0049] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of the fitment of a closed
circuit vibration device to a weight training apparatus;
[0050] FIG. 16 is a schematic view of a closed circuit vibration
device having two rotary motorised valves in parallel, for inducing
pseudo-random vibration;
[0051] FIG. 17 shows a parallel valve Magnitude vs Frequency
spectrum;
[0052] FIG. 18 shows a parallel valve configuration waveform;
[0053] FIG. 19 shows a full bridge fluid circuit for permitting
uni-directional flow of fluid regardless of piston direction;
[0054] FIG. 20 is a power amplifier circuit for driving a 24v
solenoid valve from a 5v control signal;
[0055] FIG. 21 is a graph of a simple control signal employed in
switching a solenoid valve and the latency of valve operation;
[0056] FIG. 22 is a schematic cross section of a padded vibration
arm with a rotary eccentric bob-weight;
[0057] FIG. 23 is a schematic view of a linear vibration device
showing a crank, a connecting rod, a crosshead and guide bars;
[0058] FIG. 24 is a diagram of a linear vibration device added to a
leg extension machine;
[0059] FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a swipe card
information entry system;
[0060] FIG. 26 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the
invention with piston located valves and mounted in weight training
apparatus; and
[0061] FIG. 27 is a schematic view of a stand alone embodiment of
the invention with piston located valves.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 a belt (1) is connected at one
end to the weights lifted by the user and the other end is attached
to the hand grips moved by the user. A roller (2) has rubber pads
(3) positioned around its circumference. Roller (4) is positioned
so that the band (1) is gripped between rollers (2) and (4). In
use, as the user pulls on the weights, the band moves and causes
the rollers (2) and (4) to rotate. As the band passes over the pads
(3) a vibration is given to the band which vibration is passed onto
the user via the hand grips. This vibration acts on the muscles
being exercised and the frequency of vibration can be controlled by
the number of pads (3).
[0063] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 a first disc (5) has two holes
(6) in it and a second disc (7) has holes (8) of varying size in
it. The two discs are located on a common axis and the disc (5) is
connected to a motor. As the disc (5) is rotated by the motor, the
holes (8) are periodically coincident with the holes (6).
[0064] Referring to FIG. 6, the discs are mounted in a chamber (II)
with an air conduit (10) passing through it with one end connected
to mouthpiece (9). The air conduit is positioned so that it
connects to a hole (8) and so, as one of the holes (6) is
coincident with the hole (8) a continuous air passage is formed
and, as the hole (6) moves out of coincidence, there is an
interruption to the air supply and this periodic interruption
causes a vibration effect in the breathing muscles of the user. The
rate of flow of the air to the user can be controlled by the size
of the hole (8) used and the frequency of vibration controlled by
the speed of rotation of the disc (5).
[0065] Referring to FIG. 7 a weight lifting machine comprises a
fixed framework (21), a sliding member (22) and attached adjustable
weight (23) which may slide up and down guide rails (24) when a
person pulls on cable (25) which is guided over pulley (26), being
connected to the sliding member (22) and weight (23). The sliding
member (22) is attached to a piston (27) which is located in a
cylinder (28).
[0066] When cable (25) is pulled, the sliding member (22) with
attached weight (23) is moved upwards against gravity providing a
working load to the user's muscles, the piston (27) displacing air
in cylinder (28) out through port (29). The air displacement is
checked by a control valve (30) which is driven on and off at the
desired frequency by a controller (32), causing the air flow to be
intermittently interrupted before release to atmosphere via port
(31). The switched air-flow checking action of control valve (30)
provides a time variant damping load over and above that provided
by the lifted weight (33), translating vibration into the
operator's muscles employed in the lifting action.
[0067] The embodiments depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9 are stand alone
vibrationary muscle training devices which may be used for example
between the two hands or, with suitable means for attachment to the
limbs, between any two limbs or even between a limb and another
part of the body, or between one part and another of a jointed
limb.
[0068] Thus, FIGS. 8 and 9 show a piston 100, connecting rod 101
and cylinder 102 arrangement wherein the left hand end of the
cylinder 102 is arranged for association with one limb of a user,
for example, and the connecting rod 101 is arranged for association
with another of the user's limbs. A bypass conduit 103 from the
cylinder at both sides of the piston has, in the case of the FIG. 8
embodiment, two parallel sections, the first incorporating a
controllable valve 104 and the second a controllable valve 105 and
a solenoid valve 106. The solenoid valve 106 is arranged for being
pulsed open and closed at one or more desired frequencies while the
valve 105 is arranged to control the amount of fluid passing
through the solenoid valve 106. The section with the valve 104 has
the function of applying the main resistive force in the apparatus
and the valve 104 is adjustable to vary this force. By adjusting
both valves 104, 105 a ratio of main resistance to pulsed
resistance can be varied.
[0069] The FIG. 9 embodiment has a uni-directional, or non-return
valve 107, in parallel with the other two parallel sections. This
permits free movement of the piston 100 in one direction for
situations where strength training is only required in the one
direction.
[0070] FIGS. 10 to 14 relate particularly, but not necessarily
exclusively, to a vibration device adapted for fitment to a
strength training apparatus, in particular a weight training
apparatus, perhaps by retrofit.
[0071] In FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 there is a piston 200, connecting rod
201, and cylinder 202 arrangement. A bypass conduit 203 from the
cylinder 202 at both sides of the piston 200 has, in the case of
the FIG. 3 embodiment, a solenoid valve 204. The function of the
solenoid valve 204 is, by rapid cyclic opening and closing, to
impart vibration to the fluid in the cylinder. The solenoid valve
204 is accordingly arranged for being pulsed open and closed at one
or more desired frequencies.
[0072] The FIG. 11 embodiment has, as well as the solenoid valve
204 for imparting vibration, a variable opening valve 205 for
effecting control over the resistance experienced.
[0073] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 is particularly suited
for use with a gas such as air or nitrogen, where no additional
damping might be required. The gas is pressurized to 4.5 bar. This
is sufficient to prevent excessive damping.
[0074] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 is particularly suited
for use with an hydraulic liquid. As damping is apt to be required
when a liquid is used, the variable opening valve 205 caters for
this.
[0075] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 has a rotary valve 210
in place of the solenoid valve 204. An electric motor and any
necessary gearbox 211 drives a valve core with a cut-away
permitting selective passage of fluid depending on the relative
angle of the core with respect to the fluid flow ports. The
rotational speed of the valve core sets the derived frequency of
the vibration. The electric motor is of the variable speed
variety.
[0076] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a particular form of a valve 210
for which the rotational speed equates to the vibration frequency.
The valve has a cylindrical core 212 which has a recess 212a and is
offset to a bore 213 of the valve so that when the recess 212a is
presented to the fluid flow bore 213, fluid passes freely through
the bore 213. This valve is of the type disclosed in PCT Patent
Application PCT/GB2006/050314 and UK Patent Application
0520195.9.
[0077] In a variation to the valve 210 particularly useful where
the fluid is a liquid, the core 212 shown in FIG. 6 has a
circumferential groove, illustrated by dotted lines 214. This has
the function of dampening the vibration and rendering it less harsh
to the user.
[0078] The devices shown in FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 are adapted for
fitment between the static frame 300 and the user operated part 301
of a typical strength training apparatus as shown in FIG. 8. The
actual device shown is a weight training device where the user
operated lever arm 301 is pivotally attached to the frame 300. A
wire 302 attached at one end to the arm 301 distal from the pivot
point passes over a frame mounted pulley 303 and is attached at its
other end to a variable weight block 304.
[0079] FIG. 16 depicts a pseudo random vibration apparatus. A fluid
conduit 220 connected into the cylinder 202 at both ends thereof
has two parallel circuit arms 221, 222 in each of which is a rotary
valve 223, 224 driven by a variable motor 225, 226. The speeds of
the motors 225, 226 are controlled by a controller 227 adopted to
control the base speeds of the two motors in accordance with a
desired vibration variation.
[0080] FIG. 17 is a graph of a typical pseudo random vibration
variation achieved with the apparatus described with reference to
FIG. 16 when the two valves 223, 224 are run at different
rotational speeds. The graph represents the Magnitude vs Frequency
spectrum experienced when these two rotational speeds are quite
close and as shown is typical of the situation which arises
whenever the ratio of frequencies is low.
[0081] FIG. 18 translates the graph of FIG. 10 into a waveform of
flow amplitudes vs time.
[0082] The fluid circuitry illustrated in FIG. 19 has a plurality
of solenoid valves 250 in parallel in a one-way valve 251 bridge
circuit associated with a fluid conduit 203. Primarily this
circuitry ensures that vibration is only applied in one direction,
the direction of pressure, and is absent during the relaxation
movement. The employment of a plurality of solenoid valves 250 in
this way enables amplitude and randomness of vibration to be
controlled. The circuit includes a fluid charging/pressurising
valve 252.
[0083] FIG. 20 shows a typical solenoid valve drive circuit
permitting a TTL 0 to 5v DC signal to drive a 24v DC solenoid valve
with catch or flywheel diode to prevent a back emf from the
inductive solenoid coil from damaging the transistor.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 21, as a solenoid valve takes time to
operate, due to the mass of the valve plug and the inductive nature
of the drive coil there is a delay, often called latency, which
limits the maximum speed at which the valve can operate. In many
fast solenoid valves the latency is in the range 2 mS (two
microseconds) to 4 mS. In such cases to turn ON and OFF and
complete one cycle the fastest theoretical on-off cycle or period
will be in the range 4 mS to 8 mS, giving a maximum frequency of
250 Hz to 125 Hz respectively. In practice there are other delays
in reversing the field in a solenoid coil, and damping constraints,
that limit the maximum frequency of operation to 50 Hz. Under load
this may drop to 25 Hz. If higher speeds are required without
resort to specialised solenoid valves, then the motorised rotary
valves also discussed above may be employed.
[0085] FIG. 22 shows a cross section of a bar or lever 400 in a
strength training device subject to vibration in accordance with
the invention. The bar or lever 400 is surrounded by a closed cell
foam 401 supporting an outer tube 402 which is in turn covered by a
foam pad 403. The foam pad 403 is formed of Conforfoam.TM. type
CF-47 green. This foam, whilst conforming to the local shape of,
say, the user's lower shins, is particularly capable of
transmitting vibration without significantly damping it.
[0086] In the particular case shown in FIG. 22, a vibration device
is attached to the interior of the outer tube 402 in a recess in
the foam 401. The vibration device comprises a bob-weight 410
associated with an electric motor 411.
[0087] The linearity of this vibration, constrained for alignment
with the direction of the user's muscle strengthening procedure, is
obtained with a device as depicted in FIG. 22. An electric motor
driven crank 420 in turn drives a connecting rod 421 linked to a
crosshead 422 constrained for reciprocal linear motion by guide
bars 423.
[0088] The tube 402 may be formed of a metal such as an aluminium
alloy and the foam 401 may be a sponge rubber or a "sorbo
rubber".
[0089] In a modification of the device illustrated in FIG. 22 the
configuration of the vibration device is adjustable so that the
vibration direction can be regulated.
[0090] Application of the devices illustrated with reference to
FIGS. 22 and 23 to a leg muscle strengthening apparatus is
illustrated in FIG. 24. This shows a lever 430 associated with an
adjustable weight block 431 and arranged to pivot around a point
432 adjacent a user's knees. The lever 430 carries an arm disposed
for contact with a lower region of a user's shins, the arm being as
described with reference to FIG. 22. The vibration device
illustrated in FIGS. 22, 23 is arranged to vibrate linearly along
the arrowed line 433 in FIG. 24. It is also adjustable so that the
vibration direction can be regulated.
[0091] FIG. 25 is a block diagram illustrating a microprocessor
based control system for the entry of a user's programme and
accordingly the control of loading and vibration. Alternative or
complementary inputs, in the form of a swipe card entry unit and a
keypad entry unit enable the user to input his individual programme
and to vary it if desired. A USB entry/save to external device unit
provides to the user both an indication of his progress with the
apparatus and any required modification to the swipe card or user
programme store.
[0092] The microprocessor is configured to control the valves and
read any sensors on the apparatus, which responds using stored
programme control configured or modified by keyboard, USB etc
inputs or swipe card. The swipe card can store any personal custom
configuration for the adjustment and regulation of frequency, load
and other parameters such as sensor sensitivity, number of repeat
cycles to be done at each setting etc and store any results
generated on the card as required if swiped before quitting,
perhaps even setting an adjusted programme for a future visit.
[0093] The ROM memory contains the operating system and standard
settings and process control information.
[0094] The RAM memory is used for storing operational parameters
and other data associated with the micro operation during use as
well as usually temporarily storing configuration and personal data
uploaded from the swipe card during use including possibly billing
information for equipment use sent out either via the networking
port/wireless port etc to a central gym management data system.
[0095] The Flash/EEPROM memory is used to store patches uploaded
from the repro port to correct or upgrade the operating
system/process control code in the event of errors or other need
for modifications to the electronic control systems.
[0096] The network port may be used to transfer realtime data to a
central PC or other data store for tracking, billing or performance
mapping of either the machine or individual users. This may be
interactive such that changes to the behaviour of the machine may
be directly effected or a new training configuration be downloaded
to the swipe card for the next usage session by that user.
[0097] It may also be arranged to provide random variation of the
vibration.
[0098] It will be appreciated that any of the devices described
with reference to the accompanying FIGS. 8 to 25 may be employed in
both stand alone strength training devices and in equipment, such
as gymnasium or physiotherapy weight training equipment in which
the weight or other load is applied separately to the vibration
facility.
[0099] In that respect, FIGS. 26 and 27 show similar embodiments of
the invention, one mounted in a weight training apparatus (FIG. 26)
and the other (FIG. 27) as a stand alone device.
[0100] Thus the device illustrated in FIG. 26 is a weight training
apparatus in which a frame 500 carries an adjustable weight block
501 and a pulley 502 over which runs a metal rope 503 attached at
one end to the weight block 501 and at the other to a lever device
(not shown) for operation by a user. Between the weight block 501
and the frame 500 is a vibration generator in the form of a piston
504, hollow connecting rod 505, cylinder 506 and connecting rod
base 507.
[0101] A pair of channels 508 communicate between both faces of the
piston 504 and there is a pair of solenoid valves 509 arranged for
controlling the flow in the channels 508. Electric leads 510 pass
between the valves 509 and a junction 511 in the base 507.
Electricity supply is derived at 512 and controlled at the control
panel 513, which also provides a display of operating
conditions.
[0102] The fluid in the cylinder being gas a cock 514 is provided
by which the gas can be pressurized to 4.5 bar.
[0103] When the weights 501 are lifted and the solenoid valves 509
powered flow from one face of the piston 504 to the other is
interrupted continuously and a vibration imparted to the rope 503.
There being the two solenoid valves 509, the piston cylinder
arrangement can be switched to either simple vibration mode or
pseudo random mode.
[0104] The device illustrated in FIG. 27 comprises a closed
cylinder 600 having a base 600a and in which slides a piston 601.
The piston is mounted rigidly on a hollow connecting rod 602 which
emerges from the cylinder 600 and to which is rigidly mounted a
handle 603. A rod 604 is rigidly attached to the cylinder base 600a
enter and run in the hollow of the connecting rod 602. The rod 604
has a helix formed thereon. A disc 605 is held to the piston 601 so
as to be free to rotate with respect thereto. The disc 605 is
mounted on the rod 604 in such a manner that longitudinal movement
of the piston 601 with respect to the rod 604 will cause the disc
605 to rotate. The disc 605 is of smaller diameter than the piston
601. Channels 606 provided with non-return valves 606a pass through
the piston 601 outboard of the disc 605 to permit a continuous but
restricted fluid flow therethrough in a compression direction and
free flow therethrough in a tensile direction.
[0105] Channels 607 through the piston 601 inboard of the
circumference of the disc 605 are arranged to align intermittently
with channels 608 through the disc 605. A plug 609 in the handle
603 enables charging the cylinder 600 with fluid and pressurizing
same.
[0106] The rod 604 and the disc 605 are made or coated with a low
friction material such as PTFE or nylon. Typically the angle of the
helix to the axis of the rod 604 is 8.degree..
[0107] In operation of the device illustrated in FIG. 27, when
fully charged with fluid, a compressive force between the handle
603 and the base 600a of the cylinder 600 moves the piston/disc
601/605 assembly toward the base 600a, the resistive load depending
upon the size of the channels 606. This movement causes rotation of
the disc 605 with respect to the piston 601, intermittently
aligning the channels 607 and 608 and thereby creating an
intermittent resistance to the compressive movement. When returning
the apparatus to fully extended the non-return valves 606a open to
permit relatively unrestricted fluid flow through the channels
606.
[0108] If adjustability were to be required of a device such as
that illustrated in FIG. 27, this may the most simply be obtained
via an adjustable valve in a channel connecting both ends of the
cylinder 600 and exterior thereto, unless remote controlled valves
were installed in the piston 601 somewhat as illustrated in FIG.
26.
* * * * *