U.S. patent application number 12/272519 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-14 for multi-configurable exercise device.
Invention is credited to Edward P. Kastelic.
Application Number | 20090124464 12/272519 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40624310 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090124464 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kastelic; Edward P. |
May 14, 2009 |
Multi-Configurable Exercise Device
Abstract
The invention is incorporated in an exercise device comprising a
plurality of step units and at least one connector. The step units
can be stacked on each other to create multi-tier step units of
different heights. The connectors pin the step units to each other
to create a variety of configurations for stepping. In addition,
structural elements can be connected to the step units to enable a
variety of non-stepping exercise like dipping, push-ups, and chin
ups.
Inventors: |
Kastelic; Edward P.;
(Phoenix, AZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VENABLE, CAMPILLO, LOGAN & MEANEY, P.C.
1938 E. OSBORN RD
PHOENIX
AZ
85016-7234
US
|
Family ID: |
40624310 |
Appl. No.: |
12/272519 |
Filed: |
November 17, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11566220 |
Dec 3, 2006 |
|
|
|
12272519 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 ; 108/92;
482/142; 482/148 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/1236 20130101;
A63B 23/1227 20130101; A63B 23/0458 20130101; A63B 23/1218
20130101; A63B 17/04 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/52 ; 482/142;
482/148; 108/92 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/04 20060101
A63B022/04 |
Claims
1. A multi-configurable step-exercise device comprising, a
plurality of step units and a connector, wherein each step unit is
capable of stacking on another step unit to form a multi-tier step
unit, and wherein the connector pins one step unit to another in a
manner that permits rotation about a vertical axis.
2. The multi-configurable step-exercise device of claim 1, further
comprising a structural element for connecting to a step unit for
the purpose of performing exercises other than step-exercises.
3. A kit of parts for a step-exercise device comprising: a. a step
unit that can be stacked on another step unit; and b. a hinge for
connecting one step unit to another step unit.
4. The kit of claim 3 further comprising a structural element for
connecting to a step unit for the purpose of performing exercises
other than step-exercises.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 11/566,220, filed Dec. 3, 2006, which claims the benefit
of application Ser. No. 10/690,682, filed Oct. 22, 2003, which
claims the benefit of provisional Application No. 60/420,184, filed
Oct. 23, 2002, all of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to an exercise
device and, more specifically, to an exercise device that can be
arranged into varying configurations allowing the user to perform a
variety of exercises and activities.
[0004] 2. Background of the Invention
[0005] There are many exercise devices on the market today. The
exercise community is continuously searching for an exercise device
that provides maximum health and weight loss results while still
being functional and easy to store away. Prior exercise apparatus
have been disclosed in the following United States patents: U.S.
Pat. No. 6,402,664 (T J Marston), U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,805 (K J
Helton, et al), U.S. Pat. No. 6,063,007 (D Sithole), U.S. Pat. No.
5,899,838 (L J Jacobs), U.S. Pat. No. 5,855,536 (W T Wilkinson),
U.S. Pat. No. 5,512,026 (W T Wilkinson), U.S. Pat. No. 5,474,509 (D
W Hodgdon), U.S. Pat. No. 5,354,247 (W T Wilkinson), U.S. Pat. No.
5,066,001 (W T Wilkinson), U.S. Pat. No. 4,478,413 (J T Siwula),
U.S. Pat. No. 4,223,945 (E Nikitits), U.S. Pat. No. 3,229,430 (W
Berg), U.S. Pat. No. 4,026,016 (L Heftel), U.S. Pat. No. 2,575,593
(J C Perry), U.S. Pat. No. 2,097,273 (S E Feist), U.S. Pat. No.
1,818,428 (M Paysen), U.S. Pat. No. 310,226 (D B Rice et al.). None
of the above patents, however, discloses the aspects of the current
invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The invention is summarized below only for purposes of
introducing embodiments of the invention. The ultimate scope of the
invention is to be limited only to the claims that follow the
specification.
[0007] Generally, the invention is incorporated in an exercise
device comprising one or more blocks (or "step units"); that is a
"first block", a "second block", etc. Each block has a horizontal
platform (herein, "first horizontal platform", a "second horizontal
platform") upon which the user can stand on and perform all types
of exercise activity. It is preferred that blocks are connected
together by hinges. The blocks can be of graduating heights or they
can be the same height.
[0008] The exercise device of the present invention allows the user
to perform a variety of exercises and activities. Connecting blocks
by swivel means at the corners allows for unlimited possibilities
of configurations, exercises, stabilization of apparatus,
direction, and range of motion. Each block can be easily
disassembled, unlocked, disconnected or unhinged and neatly stacked
for purpose of portability. The multi-tiered system has "ready to
go" inherent progressive resistance. The range of motion
possibilities allows arcs of upper or lower torso limb movement in
all planes of motion with increased vertical depth and spheres. The
exercise device can be used in unison with other types of exercise
tools such as dumbbells, weighted pipes, sticks, and medicine
balls.
[0009] The exercise device can also have insertion points on the
platforms to further increase the range of activities. Insertion
points allow for the attachment of one or more stabilizer bars,
pipes with handle for additional individual balance support, and
other exercise enhancing attachments. An additional height level
cap can be placed on each level to build a wider and level base.
The wider base can be used for plyometric type exercises,
single/dual foot step-ups when unit is in "tri-fold" configuration
and when configured inline (I formation) it makes a sturdy weight
bench.
[0010] The apparatus is a strength and bodybuilding tool for the
upper body as well, useful for bi-level push-ups, dips, and
abdominal balance and bridge movements and holds at
multiple-levels. Along with resistance from range of motion and
varying heights and planes of movement, the exercise device works
synergistically and is intended to work in unison with resistances
such as dumbbells, weighted pipes, sticks, medicine balls or other
implements. It can be used for individual home or fitness gym use.
The exercise device also serves as a flexibility stretching
apparatus.
[0011] Light strong materials, such as aluminum or plastic or any
other durable, light material are the desired construction
material. A comfort pad or resistance grip can be added to block
platform for increased functionality. Each exercise device can be
assembled and built to varying heights, the top level ideally set
to fit to a users' knee level for 90 degree maximum knee bend with
single foot placement. Each subsequent lower level can be
positioned to a proportional height. The exercise device can be
built for different sizes of people and leg heights for maximum
benefit. Although primarily invented for health and fitness
training, the device can also be used as stepladder, bench, or
other structural support.
[0012] The description of the invention that follows, together with
the accompanying drawings, should not be construed as limiting the
invention to the example shown and described, because those skilled
in the art to which this invention appertains will be able to
devise other forms thereof within the ambit of the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the exercise device
5.
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates the opposite side of the first embodiment
of the exercise device 5 shown in FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of the exercise
device 5.
[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates the opposite side of the second
embodiment of the exercise device 5 shown in FIG. 4.
[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of the exercise device
5 with insertion points, a removable bar, and a height level
cap.
[0018] FIG. 6 illustrates a second embodiment of the exercise
device 5 with insertion points and removable bars.
[0019] FIG. 7 illustrates the exercise device 5 having optional
stabilizer bars.
[0020] FIG. 8 illustrates a user on a second embodiment of the
exercise device 5.
[0021] FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the exercise
device 5.
[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates the alternative embodiment of FIG. 9,
having the first block 10 stacked on top of the second block 20,
and having both the first block 10 and second block 20 stored
underneath the third block 30.
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative hinge for use with the
alternative embodiment of FIG. 9.
[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the exercise
device 5.
[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 with the
first block 10 rotated about the first hinge 40 relative to the
second block 20 as compared to the illustration shows in FIG.
12.
[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 with the
addition of a third block 30 removably connected to the top of the
first block 10.
[0027] FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view of the embodiment shown
in FIG. 14.
[0028] FIG. 16 illustrates the optional use of dipping bars 150
removably connected to the first block 10.
[0029] FIG. 17 illustrates the optional use of chin up bar 152
removably connected to a first block 10 and second block 20.
[0030] FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate an embodiment of a kit of parts
for an exercise device.
[0031] FIGS. 20-21 illustrate the preferred block 10 or step unit
the optional use of dipping bars 150 removably connected to the
first block 10.
[0032] FIGS. 22-23 illustrate an embodiment of a dipping bar
attachment 150.
[0033] FIGS. 24-26 illustrate an embodiment of plates 160 connected
dipping bars 150 that fit into cap slots to buttress the insertion
point connection.
[0034] FIG. 27 illustrates a cap 170.
[0035] FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of a connector 140.
[0036] FIGS. 29-32 illustrate top, side, and bottom perspective
views of the preferred embodiment of a step unit 110.
[0037] FIG. 32 in particular, illustrates that the bottom of a
tubular column 142 and the side walls 144 can extend lower than the
interior support to permit the bottom of the tubular column 142 to
fit into the top of the column below and for the side walls 144 to
extend below the top of the unit below (if stacked) to assist in
lateral stabilization.
[0038] FIGS. 33-35 illustrate and embodiment of the interior of a
step unit 110 and insertion point 80.
[0039] FIG. 36 illustrates a cap 170.
[0040] FIG. 37 illustrates an embodiment of a stabilization ring
180 for the cap 170.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0041] It is to be understood that the descriptions below are
merely illustrative of various embodiments of the invention and
that no limitations are intended to the detail of construction or
design herein shown other than as defined in the appended claims.
In this specification, the term "slip hinge" refers to any hinge
manufactured for a "take-apart" application. In this specification,
the term "latch hinge" refers to a slip hinge that can be locked
into place if desired. In this specification the term "flag hinge"
refers to a hinge having total swivel capability (i.e., that allows
the hinge to travel a full 360 around the pin). Examples of slip
hinges, latch hinges and flag hinges can be found on the website
published by H.A. Guden Co., Inc. at www.guden.com.
[0042] In a first embodiment, the exercise device 5 generally
comprises three blocks or step units (hereinafter "blocks") a first
block 10 a second block 20, a third block 30, a first hinge 40 and
a second hinge 50. The first block 10 further comprises a first
height 12 and a first horizontal platform 14. The second block 20
further comprises a second height 22, a second horizontal platform
24, a first vertical corner 26 and a second vertical corner 28,
wherein the first vertical corner 26 is diagonally opposite from
the second vertical corner 28. The third block 30 further comprises
a third height 32 and a third horizontal platform 34.
[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first hinge 40 is connected to
the first block 10 and the first vertical corner 26 of the second
block 20. As such, the first hinge 40 rotates about a first axis 42
that that is perpendicular to the plane formed by the first
horizontal platform 14. The second hinge 50 is connected to the
third block 30 and the second vertical corner 28 of the second
block 20. As such the second hinge 50 rotates about a second axis
52 that that is perpendicular to the plane formed by the second
horizontal platform 24.
[0044] It is preferred that the step units be rectangular in shape,
but most any shape can be used. In a rectangular configuration, it
is preferred that a step unit be 8 to 12 inches wide and 14 to 16
inches long.
[0045] In the first embodiment, the exercise device 5 further
comprises a first position 60 and a second position 70, wherein the
spatial orientation of the first block 10, the second block 20 and
the third block 30 of the first position 60 is different from the
spatial orientation of the first block 10, the second block 20 and
the third block 30 of the second position 70. For example, FIGS. 1
and 2 illustrate an exercise device 5 in the first position 60. By
rotating the first block 10 counterclockwise in relation to the
second block 20 and by rotating the third block 30 counterclockwise
in relation to the second block 20 the exercise device can be
converted from the first position 60 to the second position 70. An
embodiment of the second position 70 is illustrated in FIGS. 3 and
4.
[0046] Turning again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first hinge 40 and
second hinge 50 are each in a closed position when the exercise
device 5 is configured in the first position 60. In this
embodiment, when the first hinge 40 and the second hinge 50 are
closed, the first block 10, the second block 20, and the third
block 30 are arranged according to their width. As shown in FIGS. 3
and 4, the first hinge 40 and the second hinge 50 are in an open
position when the exercise device 5 is configured in the second
position 70. As such, the first block 10, the second block 20, and
the third block 30 are arranged according to their length. The two
different configurations allow the user of the exercise device 5 to
perform different types of exercises and activities depending on
whether the first hinge 40 and the second hinge 50 are open or
closed, and the configuration of the first block 10, the second
block 20, and the third block 30.
[0047] FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the exercise device 5 with a
user performing an exercise or activity when the first hinge 40 and
the second hinge 50 are in the open position, and the first block
10, the second block 20, and the third block 30 are arranged
according to their length. The exercise device can also be
configured and utilized in any position between the first position
60 and the second position 70. The exercise device 5 is not limited
to a three block and two hinge configuration. For example, slip
hinges can be placed on some or all of the corners of the first
block 10, second block, 20, and third block 30 to enable the
creation of a variety of different shapes and configurations.
Likewise, two blocks can be used or more than three blocks can be
used.
[0048] The placement of the first hinge 40 and the second hinge 50
on opposite sides of the exercise device 5 allows the first block
10, the second block 20, and third block 30 to move in an
"accordion-like" manner. The first hinge 40 and the second hinge 50
can be any type of hinge known in the art (latch hinges, slip
hinges, flat hinges, etc.) but the connector 149 shown in FIG. 15
is preferred. By using connector 140, the exercise device can be
locked together during use, disassembled for easy storage and
reassembled use as desired.
[0049] As pictured in FIGS. 1-8, the exercise device 5 is
constructed from wood. In particular, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate an
exercise device 5 constructed using 2'' by 4'' and 2''.times.2''
construction grade pine for each box and 1/2'' plywood to form the
platforms. Wood construction is suitable. Many other materials can
be used. It is preferred to use a plastic or similar material for
its strength and relatively lighter weight. Aluminum, composites
and other known structural materials could, of course, be used.
[0050] In one alternative embodiment, the first block 10 can be
constructed so that it fits inside of the second block 20, and the
second block 20 can be constructed so that it fits into the third
block 30. By constructing the blocks in this fashion and using a
slip or latch hinge, the first block 10, the second block 20, and
third block 30 can be detached from each other and stored inside
one another for compact storage.
[0051] FIGS. 9-11 illustrate an alternative embodiment of an
exercise device 5 where the first block 10 fits on top of the
second block 20, and the first block 10 and second block 20 fit
underneath the third block 30. The alternative embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 9-11 is preferably constructed from metal such
as aluminum. Each of the three blocks (the first block 10, the
second block 20, and the third block 30) comprises a horizontal
platform (the first horizontal platform 14 the second horizontal
platform 24, and the third horizontal platform 34) supported by
four tubular columns 90. The top of each tubular column 90 can be
capped or the top of each tubular column can be used as an
insertion point 80 (as discussed more fully in a later section of
the specification).
[0052] Using an embodiment where the blocks could fit inside each
other is helpful to store the exercise device 5 inside a bag with
drawstring or for the addition of a handle device directly onto the
exercise device 5 for portability. In addition, the tubular columns
90 could be detachable from the horizontal platforms using a
releasable connection such as a hook and slip lock connection for
even more compact storage. Also, the tubular columns 90 could be
manufactured in various lengths using a releasable connection such
as a hook and slip lock connection to promote compact storage and
greater adaptability of configuration.
[0053] For the alternate embodiment of FIGS. 9-11, the first hinge
40 and the second hinge 50 are preferably two hollow sleeves 92
connected to each other. The inside diameter of the two hollow
sleeves 92 should be marginally bigger than the outside diameter of
the tubular column 90 to permit the tubular column to rotate in
relation to the two hollow sleeves 92. In addition, having the
inside diameter of the two hollow sleeves 92 be marginally bigger
than the outside diameter of the tubular column 90 allows the user
to lift one of the blocks out and detach it from the block it was
connected to. One or more pins 94 can be inserted into a tubular
column 90 to prevent undesired vertical movement of the two hollow
sleeves 92.
[0054] For example, from the configuration shown in FIG. 9, a user
could lift out the first block 10 and separate it from the second
block 20. In addition, the user could also lift out the second
block 20 and separate it from the third block 30. Then, the user
could stack the first block 10 on top of the second block 20 and
store the first block 10 and the second block 20 underneath the
third block 30 as shown in FIG. 10. In this alternate
configuration, it is preferred that the first horizontal platform
14 and the second horizontal platform 24 be approximately 9 inches
wide and 14 inches long. In this alternate configuration, it is
preferred that the third horizontal platform 34 be approximately 11
inches wide and 16 inches long.
[0055] The heights of the blocks can vary or they can be all the
same height depending on the desire of the user. It can be
advantageous for at least one step unit permit a user to have a
90.degree. knee bend with single foot placement.
[0056] As shown in the drawings, the first block 10, the second
block 20, and the third block 30 each have a horizontal platform.
The first horizontal platform 14, second horizontal platform 24,
and third horizontal platform 34 allow the user to easily step onto
the exercise device 5 when engaged in an exercise or activity. As
an option, the first horizontal platform 14, second horizontal
platform 24, and third horizontal platform 34 can have a comfort
pad, a resistance grip or both. A comfort pad can be constructed
from 1/8 inch rubber, such as is commonly found on exercise
equipment. Similarly, a resistance grip can be constructed by
adding ribs or other gripping elements to an 1/8'' rubber pad, such
as is commonly found on exercise equipment in use today.
Preferably, the comfort pad and the resistance grip are the same
dimensions of the horizontal platforms 14, 24, and 34 so that they
easily fit onto the exercise device 5.
[0057] Further, in another alternate embodiment of the invention,
the horizontal platforms 14, 24, 34 can have a plurality of
insertion points 80. Examples of insertion points 80 locations are
shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 9, and 10. The insertion points 80 allow the
user to add equipment to the exercise device 5 by inserting the
additional equipment into the insertion points 80. The insertion
points 80 are a diameter and a distance apart from each other to
allow the additional equipment to be easily inserted and removed
from the exercise device 5 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.
[0058] The additional equipment can include removable bars 82 and
height level caps 84. A removable bar 82 can be of any shape and/or
size to facilitate a desired activity. In the preferred embodiment,
there can be several removable bars 82. Preferably, the removable
bar 82, such as the ones shown in FIG. 6, is configured to allow
the user to do exercises such as push-ups, dips, and pull-ups,
Additionally, a user of the exercise device 5 can use the removable
bar 82 for balance or stabilization.
[0059] In addition, one or more height level caps 84 can be placed
into the insertion points 80 to build a wider and level base on the
exercise device 5. Preferably, a height level cap 84 for the first
block 10 is of a dimension that effectively modifies the first
height 12 to be equivalent to the second height 22 or the third
height 32 as desired. Likewise, a height level cap 84 for the
second block 20 is of a dimension that effectively modifies the
second height 22 to be equivalent to the third height 32. As a
result, adding height level caps 84 will result in the top of the
modified first block 10, the second block 20, and the third block
30 will be flush to provide a flat-surfaced exercise device 5 for
the user. Adding height level caps 84 when the exercise device is
in the first position 60, creates a wide and flat exercise device 5
that can be used for plyometric type exercises, single/dual foot
step-ups. Adding height level caps 84 when the exercise device is
in the second position 70 makes a sturdy weight bench for
weightlifting and other exercises.
[0060] Moreover, as shown in FIG. 7, exercise device 5 can be
equipped with optional stabilization bars 86. The stabilization
bars 86 are attached to the exercise devise 5 with locking hinges
88. Further, the stabilization bars 86 provide support to the
exercise device 5 to keep it from falling over while in use.
[0061] The exercise device 5 is a strength and bodybuilding tool
for the upper body as well, useful for bi-level push-ups, dips, and
abdominal balance and bridge movements and holds at
multiple-levels. Along with resistance from range of motion and
varying heights and planes of movement, the exercise device works
synergistically and is intended to work in unison with resistances
such as dumbbells, weighted pipes, sticks, medicine balls or other
implements. It can be used for individual home or fitness gym use.
The exercise device also serves as a flexibility stretching
apparatus. The range of motion possibilities allows arcs of upper
or lower torso limb movement in all planes of motion with increased
vertical depth and spheres. The exercise device can be used in
unison with other types of exercise tools such as dumbbells,
weighted pipes, sticks, and medicine balls. Although primarily
invented for health and fitness training, the device can also be
used as stepladder, bench, or other structural support.
Preferred Embodiment
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 14-37, the preferred embodiment comprises
a plurality of blocks or step units 110 and a connector 140. Each
step unit 110 can be stacked on top of another step unit 110 as
shown in FIGS. 14-15, 18-19. In this way, varying step heights (or
the same step heights) can be achieved.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 15, the preferred embodiment of a step unit
140 uses a tubular column 142 in the corner of each step unit 110
to facilitate stacking. The bottom of a tubular column 142 fits
into the top of the column below. To accomplish this, the bottom of
the tubular column 142 extends below the bottom of the interior of
the step unit 110. See e.g., FIG. 32. In addition, side walls 144
can extend below the bottom of the of the interior of the step unit
110 so that when step units 110 are stacked, the side walls, 144
extend below the top of the unit below to assist in lateral
stabilization. See e.g., FIGS. 14 and 19.
[0064] FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of a connector 140. In the
preferred operation, the connector 140 can be slipped onto the
bottom of a tubular column 142 to permit rotation about a vertical
axis. The connectors effectively "pin" the step units to each other
and can be connected to create a variety of configurations for
stepping. For stability, it is sometimes preferable to put
connectors 140 on both sides of adjacent step units 110.
[0065] It has been found that the step units 110 shown can be
stacked least 4 units high, which permits all combinations and
permutations of 4, 3, 2, and 1. In addition, rectangular step units
110 can also allow differing designs depending on how each step
unit is rotated relative to another using the connector 140.
Combining a plurality of stackable step units 110 with at least one
connector 140 can lead to a variety of stepping device designs
including those shown in the attached drawings as well as many
others. While only three step units are connected together in FIG.
14, that is only one example of the many ways the step units can be
connected together.
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 16-17, structural elements like
dipping/push up bars 150 and chin-up, pull up bars 152 can be
connected to a step unit for the purpose of performing exercises
other than step-exercises. It is preferred to attach structural
elements to insertion points 80.
[0067] Although the invention has been described in detail with
reference to one or more particular preferred embodiments, persons
possessing ordinary skill in the art to which this invention
pertains will appreciate that various modifications and
enhancements may be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the claims that follow.
* * * * *
References