U.S. patent application number 12/979108 was filed with the patent office on 2011-04-21 for single apparatus converging/diverging exercise machine.
Invention is credited to Douglas J. Habing.
Application Number | 20110092343 12/979108 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43879745 |
Filed Date | 2011-04-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110092343 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Habing; Douglas J. |
April 21, 2011 |
Single Apparatus Converging/Diverging Exercise Machine
Abstract
Principles of exercise machine construction, an exercise
machine, components of an exercise machine, and methods related to
exercising on or constructing an exercise machine that allows for
the performance of multiple different exercises, where the user
utilizes related arcs of an arm with a fixed path of motion for the
different exercises. Generally the arcs will be utilized for both
pull-type exercises and push-type exercises and/or for diverging
and converging exercises.
Inventors: |
Habing; Douglas J.; (Long
Beach, CA) |
Family ID: |
43879745 |
Appl. No.: |
12/979108 |
Filed: |
December 27, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12901622 |
Oct 11, 2010 |
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12979108 |
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10632129 |
Jul 31, 2003 |
7811211 |
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12901622 |
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60447666 |
Feb 14, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/94 ; 482/111;
482/114; 482/121; 482/133 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/1254 20130101;
A63B 21/0628 20151001; A63B 21/4047 20151001; A63B 23/1263
20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001; A63B
23/03525 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/94 ; 482/133;
482/111; 482/121; 482/114 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise machine comprising: a frame; a resistance object; a
first arm attached to a first positioning system and moveable
between a plurality of fixed positions on said first positioning
system, said first positioning system being moveably attached to
said frame to rotate about a first axis and being connected to said
resistance object; a second arm attached to a second positioning
system and moveable between a plurality of fixed positions on said
second positioning system, said second positioning system being
moveably attached to said frame to rotate about a second axis and
being connected to said resistance object; a first handle attached
to said first arm; and a second handle attached to said second arm;
wherein, when said first arm and said second arm are rigidly
connected to said positioning system at a first position in said
plurality of positions, said first handle and said second handle,
when engaging resistance provided by said resistance object,
converge together; and wherein, when said first arm and said second
arm are rigidly connected to said positioning system at a second
position different from said first position in said plurality of
positions, said first handle and said second handle, when engaging
resistance provided by said resistance object, diverge apart.
2. The machine of claim 1 wherein each of said positioning systems
comprises a pin plate.
3. The machine of claim 2 wherein said first arm and said second
arm are attached to said pin plate via a second and third axis of
rotation respectively.
4. The machine of claim 3 wherein none of said first axis, said
second axis, said third axis, and said fourth axis are
parallel.
5. The machine of claim 2 wherein said pin plates are
non-parallel.
6. The machine of claim 5 wherein said pin plates are arranged to
converge toward a midpoint of said machine when moving from front
to back.
7. The machine of claim 1 wherein said first axis and said second
axis are non parallel.
8. The machine of claim 7 wherein said first axis and said second
axis intersect at an angle of between about 90 and about 110
degrees.
9. The machine of claim 8 wherein said first axis and said second
axis interest at an angle of about 100 degrees.
10. The machine of claim 1 wherein said first axis and said second
axis lie in the same plane.
11. The machine of claim 10 wherein said plane of said axes is
positioned less than 7 degrees from the vertical.
12. The machine of claim 11 wherein said plane is positioned about
2 degrees from the vertical.
13. The machine of claim 1 wherein said resistance object comprises
at least one of: a weight stack, a spring, a piston, an elastomeric
member, a compression box or panel, a gravity resistance, or a
frictional resistance.
14. The machine of claim 1 wherein said frame includes an overhead
portion where said first and said second positioning systems are
moveably attached.
15. The machine of claim 1 wherein said handles trace a fixed
path.
16. The machine of claim 1 wherein said handles trace a guided
path.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part (CIP) of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/901,622 filed Oct. 11, 2010 and
currently pending, which is in turn a Continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/632,129, filed Jul. 31, 2003 and now U.S.
Pat. No. 7,811,211, which in turn claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application 60/447,666 filed Feb. 14, 2003. The
entire disclosure of all these documents is herein incorporated by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of exercise machines.
In particular, to exercise machines designed to perform different
exercises (such as converging and diverging or push and pull
strength exercises) with arms which follow a fixed or guided
path.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Over recent years, as physical fitness has become an ever
more popular pursuit, there have evolved a plurality of exercise
machines upon which exercises can be performed by a user. One type
of exercise machine is the strength machine which is designed to
improve muscle strength and tone by having the user utilize certain
muscle groups to pull, push or otherwise perform work on some type
of resistance mechanism built into the machine.
[0006] As the nature of exercise has become more fully understood,
different types of exercise machines have been developed to provide
for more effective training. Originally, strength training was
performed by the lifting of free-weights. While simple to
understand and operate, free-weights had inherent dangers in their
use, and, although conceptually simple, were often hard to use
correctly without trained instruction. In order to get the best
toning or shaping results out of particular exercises, it is
desirable that muscle groups be isolated so that the intended
muscle group is exercised by the exercise, as opposed to exercising
an unintended muscle group. With free-weights it was often not
possible to perform exercises that isolated the desired muscle
groups, and even if it was possible, it was often difficult to know
how to perform the exercises correctly without specific
instruction. As strength machines have evolved, they have tried to
improve both the safety of performing different exercises, and the
effectiveness of the exercise to isolate different muscle
groups.
[0007] To most effectively isolate and exercise particular muscle
groups, it is desirable that the exercise machine be arranged so
that the user is limited in their motion to that which effectively
performs the desired exercise on the desired muscle groups. This is
generally performed by the selection and arrangement of two
components of the machine. Firstly, there is a bench, seat or other
structure which supports the user's body. For some exercises, this
may be as simple as the floor upon which the machine rests, while
for others adjustable benches may be provided to position portions
of the user's body relative to appropriate pieces of the exercise
machine. This component helps to get the user in a comfortable
position where they can operate the moving portions of the machine,
and place them in a position relative to the moving parts of the
machine so that they manipulate those parts to perform the
exercise.
[0008] The other component is the moving portion of the machine and
is generally in the form of "arms" or other objects which are
arranged in a manner to be engaged by the user at a certain point
(such as a grip or handle), and then be moved by the user along a
predetermined path or a guided path resisted by the machine. When
the two components of the machine are used together correctly, the
user is therefore positioned in such a manner that when the grip is
moved by the user on the bench, the predetermined or guided path
dictates the motion of the handle and, if the machine is
well-designed, exercises the intended muscle group. This results in
the user both isolating a muscle group and performing a safer
exercise motion.
[0009] The difficulty with the design of strength machines,
however, is that they generally need to be both flexible to perform
multiple exercises, and limited to guide a user to perform an
exercise correctly. As more has become known about the motion of
particular exercises, this has led to a difficulty in finding
exercise motions which can be incorporated into the same machine.
Specifically, different types of exercise generally have different
motions of the grips or handles and therefore the arms need to have
different paths. With free-weights, the user can freely position
the weights relative to their body, allowing them to perform
numerous exercises, but at the same time, the user is not guided to
perform any of the exercises correctly because the weights can be
freely maneuvered. Strength machines, on the other hand, can often
be designed to guide the particular motion of the user, but this
limits the number of exercises which can be performed on the
machine. This is particularly problematic when space for exercise
machines is limited, such as for most individuals in their homes,
and even for the majority of gyms or workout facilities.
[0010] One significant problem which has existed with strength
machines is to incorporate both push-type and pull-type exercises
in the same machine, without the inclusion of multiple sets of arms
for the user to interact with significantly increasing the
complexity of the machine. For instance, when exercising the upper
torso it is desirable to perform push-type exercises where the arms
are pushed away from the body against resistance and pull-type
exercises where the arms are pulled toward the body against
resistance.
[0011] The duality of exercise discussed above exists because
muscle groups generally operate in pairs. In particular,
individuals generally have two sets of muscles which operate in
conjunction with each other. One set acts to move in one direction,
while the other acts to move in the opposing direction. Since
muscle generally performs work by contracting, the two muscle
groups act in concert with one group contracting (performing work)
while the other group expands (essentially resting).
[0012] To increase strength and/or tone in any particular muscle
region (set of two or more muscle groups such as the torso) it is
therefore desirable to be able to perform different types of
exercise motions. This, however, requires a machine capable of
providing resistance to both a push and pull motion (or to motion
in different directions) to related or different muscle groups. A
difficulty arises because many resistance mechanisms generally only
provide resistance to motion in one direction (e.g. the resistance
is opposing the lifting of a weight from its resting position, as
compared to returning it to its resting position). The commonality
of this type of resistance has generally required exercise machines
that provide a user with both push and pull motion to either have
additional arms for each exercise so that the arms can follow
different paths--which necessarily increase their size, expense and
complexity--or to have complex mechanisms for the arm motion
allowing users to connect and disconnect components to accomplish
different exercises. This leads to increased difficulty of
construction and use, increased expense, and often an increased
risk of failure.
[0013] Further, the range of motion utilized when a user is
performing a pull motion is often different from the range of
motion of a user performing a push motion with a related muscle
group. For example, a user performing a chest press will generally
begin the exercise with their hands near their chest, however in
the corresponding rowing movement, the user will often end the
exercise with their arms lower, near their upper mid-section. This
difference exists even though the general motion of both exercises
is basically perpendicular to the plane of the body and may exist
due to differing rotation in the arms or hands when performing the
different exercises comfortably.
[0014] Still further, exercises are generally not performed using
static patterns where the hands maintain a constant position
relative to each other, but are preferably carried out with the
hands either converging on each other or diverging from each
other.
SUMMARY
[0015] Because of these and other previously unknown problems in
the art, disclosed herein are principles of exercise machine
construction, exercise machines, components of an exercise
machines, and methods related to exercising on and constructing an
exercise machine that allows for the performance of multiple
different exercises, particularly upper torso strength exercises,
where the user utilizes related arcs of motion of an arm in a fixed
or guided path for the different exercises. Generally the arcs will
be utilized for both pull-type exercises and push-type exercises
and/or for diverging and converging exercises.
[0016] There is described herein, among other things, an exercise
machine comprising: a frame; a resistance object; a first arm
attached to a first positioning system and moveable between a
plurality of fixed positions on the first positioning system, the
first positioning system being moveably attached to the frame to
rotate about a first axis and being connected to the resistance
object; a second arm attached to a second positioning system and
moveable between a plurality of fixed positions on the second
positioning system, the second positioning system being moveably
attached to the frame to rotate about a second axis and being
connected to the resistance object; a first handle attached to the
first arm; and a second handle attached to the second arm; wherein,
when the first arm and the second arm are rigidly connected to the
positioning system at a first position in the plurality of
positions, the first handle and the second handle, when engaging
resistance provided by the resistance object, converge together;
and wherein, when the first arm and the second arm are rigidly
connected to the positioning system at a second position different
from the first position in the plurality of positions, the first
handle and the second handle, when engaging resistance provided by
the resistance object, diverge apart.
[0017] In an embodiment of the machine each of the positioning
systems comprises a pin plate, and the first arm and the second arm
may be attached to the pin plate via a second and third axis of
rotation respectively. The first axis, the second axis, the third
axis, and the fourth axis may be non-parallel and the pin plates
may be non-parallel and arranged to converge toward a midpoint of
the machine when moving from front to back.
[0018] In an embodiment, the first axis and the second axis are non
parallel and may intersect at an angle of between about 90 and
about 110 degrees, more preferably about 100 degrees.\
[0019] In an embodiment, the first axis and the second axis lie in
the same plane which may be positioned less than 7 degrees from the
vertical, more preferably about 2 degrees from the vertical.
[0020] In an embodiment, the resistance object may comprise one or
more of: a weight stack, a spring, a piston, an elastomeric member,
a compression box or panel, a gravity resistance, a frictional
resistance or any other device or means for generating resistance
known now or later discovered.
[0021] In an embodiment, the frame includes an overhead portion
where the first and the second positioning systems are moveably
attached.
[0022] In an embodiment, the device may provide for a fixed path of
the handles, or may provide for the handles to follow a guided
path
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0023] FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a perspective view of an
exercise machine incorporating an embodiment of arms allowing for
multiple types of exercises.
[0024] FIG. 2 depicts a detail view of an embodiment of an arm from
the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 3 depicts a user positioned on the embodiment of FIG. 1
at the start point for a push-type exercise, specifically a
converging chest press.
[0026] FIG. 4 depicts a user positioned on the embodiment of FIG. 1
at the apex point of a push-type exercise, specifically a
converging chest press.
[0027] FIG. 5 depicts a user positioned on the embodiment of FIG. 1
at the start point for a pull-type exercise, specifically a
diverging rowing exercise.
[0028] FIG. 6 depicts a user positioned on the embodiment of FIG. 1
at the apex point of a pull-type exercise, specifically a diverging
rowing exercise.
[0029] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E depict various general
representations of motion for different type exercises.
[0030] FIG. 8 depicts a representational drawing of an arm capable
of moving in related arcs while following a fixed path.
[0031] FIG. 9 depicts a user at the apex point of a converging
push-type exercise using a single arm on the embodiment of FIG.
1.
[0032] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of
an exercise machine incorporating another embodiment of arms
allowing for multiple types of exercises.
[0033] FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of another embodiment of
an exercise machine which utilizes multi-position arms to allow for
the multiple-types of exercises.
[0034] FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C show side views of the embodiment of
FIG. 11 with the arms configured for a shoulder press, incline
press, and rowing exercise respectively.
[0035] FIGS. 13A and 13B show a front view of the embodiment of
FIG. 11 with the arms configured for a chest press with the arms in
their start and end position respectively.
[0036] FIG. 14 shows a detail lower front perspective view of the
arm adjustment and rotation mechanism of the embodiment of FIG.
11.
[0037] FIG. 15 shows a detail side view of the arm adjustment and
rotation mechanism of the embodiment of FIG. 11.
[0038] FIG. 16 shows a detail rear perspective view of the arm
adjustment and rotation mechanism of the embodiment of FIG. 11.
[0039] FIG. 17 shows a detail rear view of the arm adjustment and
rotation mechanism of the embodiment of FIG. 11.
[0040] FIG. 18 shows a detail front view of the arm adjustment and
rotation mechanism of the embodiment of FIG. 11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0041] Although the exercise machines, arms, principles and methods
described below are discussed primarily in terms of their
application to a particular layout of exercise machine(s), one of
ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the principles
described herein can be used in a plurality of different exercise
machines of different layouts designed to have certain desired
footprints and space considerations. These can include, but are not
limited to, home and commercial exercise machines of all price
ranges.
[0042] Also, while the exercise machines are primarily discussed as
performing torso and arm exercises, they could be readily adapted
for use with other types of exercises and/or exercises involving
other portions of the body (such as, but not limited to, the legs).
Further, the embodiments disclosed herein generally discuss a user
performing an exercise with both of their arms simultaneously. It
would be understood that a user is not mandated to move both their
arms simultaneously, therefore when an exercise is described as
"converging" based on the different relationships of the hands to
each other during the exercise, one of ordinary skill in the art
would understand that the motion of a single hand, performing an
identical motion, is also "converging."
[0043] Generally, a machine's motion will be used to refer to the
available motion that can be traversed by the portion of the
machine the user is intended to grasp or otherwise manipulate to
perform the exercise (these will generally be "handles"). The
machine's motion therefore is interrelated to the motions the hands
(in the case of a torso exercise) or other portions of the body
make when using the machine. In most strength machines, the machine
is designed so that the mechanisms can only move such that the user
is guided to move the portion of the machine they interact with in
a prescribed way (a particular "arc" of motion) to move the
mechanisms at all. In this way, the available motion of the machine
attempts to dictate that the user perform the exercise
correctly.
[0044] The principles disclosed herein can generally be described
as follows; the exercise machine allows for the performance of at
least two different exercises which each utilize a portion of
either the same arc of motion, or related arcs of motion where
related arcs refer to arcs created by different locations on or
positions of an arm which follows a fixed path. This fixed motion
will often be, but is not limited to, rotational motion about a
particular pivot axis. To put this another way, a part with a
limited available range of motion can provide a wide variety of
ranges of motion. Generally, the exercises performed herein utilize
two arms (one for each side of the user's body) and herein each arm
is a rigid or otherwise solid arm with a singular rotational, or
similar, connection. This connection allows for the arm to follow a
fixed path. The shape of the arm then provides different points
where handles may be placed or otherwise arranged so the handles
arranged at these points traverse appropriate related arcs at the
appropriate position as the arm traces the fixed path.
[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the exercises may be performed
in a fashion where the arms and/or handles may traverse a guided
path. As opposed to a system where a fixed path is used and the
system effectively only allows for a very limited motion in order
to force the user to perform that motion, when using a guided path,
the motion is effectively constrained within certain parameters,
but within those parameters is subject to flexibility. This type of
exercise motion can be desirable for a more advanced user, when
slight variation in motion can be used to enhance the exercise, or
where the motion does not need to be as rigidly controlled. In a
guided path embodiment, the general path of motion (such as that
shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) can be provided by the machine, but the
rotational components can be designed to purposefully include
additional ranges of motion. Thus, instead of their being a single
smooth curve available, there can be provided two curves which
serve as "borders" of the available motion, and any path which is
constrained within those borders is allowed. In this type of
system, the user can, therefore, alter the specific exercise motion
in order to provide slight customization, while the machine still
provides for constraints on the general exercise motion to provide
for the benefits specifically associated with the selected type of
exercise.
[0046] This general principle is most clearly illustrated through
the FIGS. Looking at FIG. 8, one can see an axis of rotation (801)
shown. This axis of rotation (801) then defines a universe of
circles which can be transcribed therearound. A small subselection
of these circles are shown in FIG. 8 as circles (803), (805) and
(807). As would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art,
a circle can be centered anywhere upon the axis of rotation (801),
and may have any radius. Therefore, the illustrated circles are
merely representative of circles which could be selected. Each of
these circles can also be subdivided in any manner to form arcs
(where an arc is a portion of a circle). Generally, these arcs will
have proportional arc lengths, but in certain designs of an arm,
may not. Three representative arcs are also shown in FIG. 8 as
(823), (825), and (827). For purposes of this disclosure, each of
these arcs are defined to be "related" because they can be traced
by an arm following a fixed path. In this embodiment, the path
would be rotational in a particular direction (as indicated by the
arrows) about the axis of rotation (801), although in other
embodiments other directions could be used.
[0047] FIG. 8 also shows a rigid arm (809) which can connect the
related arcs (823), (825) and (827), such that points (which are
positions of handles) on the arm (833), (835), and (837) will trace
each of the arcs when the arm is rotated about the axis (801) in a
designated direction (follows the fixed path of motion). From FIG.
8, it is clear that the trace of the arcs includes two positional
references. In particular, each arc has a "starting point" (893),
(895) or (897) which is where the handle begins before rotation,
and that the rotation is in a defined singular direction about the
axis. For ease of discussion, this direction is either "clockwise"
or "counter clockwise." As should be apparent in FIG. 8, the
related arcs can have different arc lengths simply because of the
mathematical relationship of the radius to that arc and the angle
that all the relative radiuses are moved through. Each related arc
may or may not have the same angular relationship (although in most
embodiments they will); it just simply means that an arm moving
through a fixed path may transcribe a first arc and either a second
arc, portion of a second arc, or the second arc plus some
additional distance.
[0048] The representation of different arcs in FIG. 8 is a
simplification of a more general relationship. In particular, two
parts of a rigid body traversing a fixed path can actually be
moving along differing related arcs relative to a fixed reference
point. This can be further generalized in that so long as a
non-rigid body (arm) can follow any fixed path, regardless of
whether each point on the arm is moving in a similar relation to
other points (such as in the case of FIG. 8) or if the points are
moving relative to each other, points on that body can traverse
related arcs. The "arc" generated by a handle can actually be of
any shape and the "arc" is in no way limited to circular or
smoothly curving shapes. For the purposes of this disclosure, the
term "path" will refer to the path of motion that the arm can take
and the term "arc" refers to the path taken by any point attached
to or on that arm as the arm moves through its path regardless of
the shape of the arc or path.
[0049] While FIG. 8 best illustrates a fixed path, one of ordinary
skill would understand how slight play can be provided within each
rotation, or how additional rotation, slide, or other translation
can be introduced so as to allow for the arm and/or handle to be
constrained by the path, but not be fixed to it. In this type of
situation, the machine would provide for guided motion as
contemplated above. In an embodiment, the guiding can be provided,
for example, by allowing each of the radii of the circles (803),
(805), or (807) to be freely adjustable by a small amount (for
example, 5%, 3%, or 1%). Thus, each of the circles (803), (805), or
(807) effectively comprises two circles (an outer and an inner
circle) which serve to border the available motion, the arcs (823),
(825), and (827) can then be any arc that exists entirely within
(or on) the borders formed by those circles. In a still further
embodiment, the inner circle is provided to be very small (or even
non-existent) so that there is an outer border path but no real
inner border path. This can allow for a large variety of different
motions for an advanced user, while still allowing a user who is
less sophisticated, or who may be tired, to simply operate the
device at the outer border by simply pushing the arms into stops
which constrain the outer circle.
[0050] In an embodiment, this guided motion could be provided by
having an additional hinge or rotational point within each of the
arms (205) or (1205) which allows for the arms (205) or (1205) to
curl inward (shorten the radii) but inhibit the arms from going
outward beyond the prescribed motion (e.g. the motions of FIGS. 7
and 8). In order to preserve that the exercise is either converging
or diverging based on the proscribed motion, stops can be provided
on this additional point of rotation or other movement which
actually prohibit the motion from passing through a parallel motion
of the handles. Specifically, inner stops may be provided that
prohibit the handles (1405) or (403) from becoming closer at the
start of the exercise than is allowed at the terminus (on a
converging exercise), and prohibit the handles (1405) or (403) from
spreading farther at the start of the exercise than is allowed at
the terminus (on a diverging exercise).
[0051] As should be apparent, directly modifying the radii of the
circles (803), (805), and (807) may be technically difficult,
however, by allowing some additional relative movement between
various parts of the machine (such as by positioning an additional
hinge or point of relative movement in the arm or handle), the same
effect can be achieved.
[0052] Exercise research has shown that exercise of the torso (and
many other areas of the body) is generally desirable to not be
static. That is, the motion of the hands is generally converging
for some exercises (often those where the user pushes something
away from their body) and diverging for other exercises (often
those where the user pulls something toward their body) as this
motion is much more natural to the user. Pull-type exercises and/or
push-type exercises may either be converging or diverging
exercises.
[0053] It is important to note what is meant by converging and
diverging in the context of this disclosure. A converging exercise
is performed when two symmetric parts of a user's body begin an
exercise at a first distance apart and end that exercise at a
second distance apart where the second distance is less than the
first distance. A diverging exercise is performed when two parts of
a user's body begin an exercise at a first distance apart and end
that exercise at a second distance apart where the second distance
is more than the first distance. In both cases, the change of
distance is caused as part of the exercise by both body parts
moving. Generally, the hands (the two parts of the user's body) in
the push-type exercise begin separated and are moved closer
together at the apex of the exercise (when the hands are extended
from the body). Generally, in the pull-type exercise the hands
begin close together (extended from the body) and are separated as
the hands are pulled towards the body.
[0054] The definition of a converging and diverging exercise also
holds true if it is being performed by a single body part so long
as that body part is carrying out the same motion as it does in the
above converging and diverging situation, even if the other body
part does not move. To put this in another way, a converging
exercise will generally have an arc converging toward the reference
plane vertically dividing the human body into two generally
symmetric halves (a plane of symmetry), a diverging exercise will
have an arc diverging from the same plane. This plane will
generally be through the midpoint of a user's body as shown in FIG.
7D by plane of symmetry (960). A converging exercise, therefore,
generally represents a portion of the user's body converging
towards the generally similar portion of the user's body across the
plane of symmetry of the user's body. A diverging exercise is the
opposite.
[0055] To get smooth motion in these types of exercises, the arc
traversed by the hands is preferably arcuate or of a smooth linear
translation in both exercise types which then leads to the
desirable range of motion of an exercise machine (when properly
used by a user) being guided to an arc the hands preferably take.
For purposes of this disclosure, this smooth motion will be
referred to as arcuate, although such motion may be linear. Because
of the left/right symmetry generally present in the human body, the
arcs are generally mirrored for the right and left hands about the
midpoint of the user's body. One of ordinary skill in the art would
recognize, however, that the path need not be arcuate in the plane
of FIG. 7D. In FIG. 7D the arc is in the plane of the page so the
motion appears curved. In another embodiment of the invention, the
arc could be in a different plane so the motion of FIG. 7D could
appear linear or any other shape. Essentially, the curved triangle
shown in FIG. 7D would become two linear lines if the arc portion
was perpendicular to the page. Further, an arc need not be a
circular arc as shown, but could be and is not limited to, an
elliptical arc, a parabolic arc, a hyperbolic arc, or a linear arc.
Therefore, the arcuate motion simply describes a smooth path
through 3-dimensional space.
[0056] The relationship of the motion of the hands in a simplified
push-type exercise and related pull-type exercise is shown in a
simplified form in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In FIG. 7A there is shown the
desired motion of a user (990), viewed from above (looking down at
the top of their head), performing a push-type exercise
(specifically a converging chest press), in FIG. 7B there is shown
the desired motion of a user (990) performing a pull-type exercise
(specifically a diverging rowing exercise).
[0057] Please note from the FIGS that the arcs shown here also
include direction. In this case the direction refers to the
direction the handle moves against resistance. Generally, when
performing an exercise, a user will move in an arc against
resistance, and then the handle will traverse over the same path to
return to the starting point. Therefore, for clarity, the exercise
arc or the path of the arm in this disclosure will always refer to
a motion against a resistance. That is, the motion indicates a
weight is lifted, not returned.
[0058] It is apparent from these FIGS, that the arcs (901), (911),
(903), and (913) traced by the hands in each exercise are similar,
in FIGS. 7A and 7B the motions are actually simplified to be the
same, only the directions are different. A more general case will
be discussed later in FIG. 7D. As shown, the left and right hands
of the user traverse mirrored arcs in either exercise (for instance
(901) and (903) in FIG. 7A). The hands do not necessarily, however,
each track a part of the same circle. The arcs traversed by the
hands may be on the same circle or separate circles, but it is
generally preferable that the arcs be on intersecting circles that
are not related; that is, there is an arc for each hand which is
independent of the arc for the other hand. This is shown by the
dashed circle outlines in FIGS. 7A and 7B. As the circles for each
hand are not related, each circle has its own independent axis
((991A) and (993A) for FIG. 7A and (991B) and (993B) for FIG. 7B).
These axes may or may not cross depending on the embodiment.
[0059] Also between exercises, the directions that the user (990)
needs to provide the exercise force to get the intended exercise
(represented by the arrows (931), (933), (951), and (953)) are
reversed although the traces are the same. This shows that these
are actually two different arcs. In particular, in the push-type
exercise the user (990) is providing the exercise force (arrows
(931) and (933)) along the arc in the direction away from the
user's (990) body. While in the pull-type exercise, the exercising
force (arrows (951) and (953)) is along a similar arc in a
direction toward the user's (990) body.
[0060] FIG. 7C now provides an embodiment of how related arcs can
be used to combine the different exercises to utilize the same arm
or mechanism moving on a fixed path. In particular, FIG. 7C shows
how this can be performed by reversing FIG. 7B and then placing it
in conjunction with FIG. 7A such that the two axes (991B) and
(993B) of 7B align with the two axes (991A) and (993A) of 7A as
shown by the overlapped axes (991) and (993). One of skill in the
art would understand that the reversal of the arcs of 7B is not
necessary and that the arcs can be placed to be related by leaving
the relation the same (which would essentially have the two FIGS
perfectly overlapping).
[0061] The reason for the rotation of FIG. 7B relates to motion
about the axis of rotation. As was shown in FIG. 8, a rigid arm can
generally only rotate about a single axis in only one direction at
a time, it either rotates clockwise or counter-clockwise relative
to the axis (and a fixed point of reference). As shown in FIG. 7C,
the motions (931) and (953) now have a similar rotation, that is
they are all rotating counter-clockwise about axis (993) while
motions (933) and (951) are rotating clockwise about axis
(991).
[0062] Utilizing a single rotational direction provides for
numerous benefits in the exercise machine context. In particular,
most exercise machines have a singular resting state where they
exist when not in use. It takes force provided by the user to move
the machine arms from this resting state, and generally also
requires force by the user to resist the machine returning to its
resting state, this is because many of the resistance objects used
in exercise machines only provide force in a given direction and
the direction opposing that given direction is generally what is
provided by the user (through mechanical process) as the exercise.
To explain simply, in the above FIG. 7C situation, generally the
user will only obtain exercise by supplying a force in either the
clockwise or counter-clockwise direction about any singular axis,
but not both directions. Therefore, by reversing FIG. 7B, the
rotational direction (clockwise for the axis (991) and
counter-clockwise for axis (993)) is maintained between
exercises.
[0063] One of skill in the art would recognize that in an
alternative embodiment, the resistance of the resistance object can
be bi-directional, allowing for force to be present in both the
clockwise and counterclockwise direction, but such an arrangement
generally requires a more complicated resistance object.
[0064] In FIG. 7C it is clear that by linking the starting points
(generally the point of the arc that the user would begin the
exercise, or the location of the point where the user interacts
with the machine when the machine is in its resting state) of each
of the two arcs on the same side of the FIG. together, it is
possible to have each arc traversed simultaneously by points on a
single rigid arm (971) or (973) which connects them and rotates
about the axis (991) or (993) along a fixed path. Therefore the two
"same side" arc motions can be combined into a single arm motion
with two separate and distinct starting points thereon. These
points would be the handle manipulation points as they generally
define the motion made by the user's (990) hands performing the
exercise. As is then apparent from FIG. 7C, depending on which
handles the user uses (and which way they face) determines which
exercise is performed.
[0065] From the simple case of FIG. 7C, by altering the shape of
arm (971) or arm (973), the two points on the same side could be
made to traverse different (but still related) arcs about the same
axis (e.g. by altering the radius of the arcs relative to each
other). This is shown in FIG. 7D. One of ordinary skill in the art
would also recognize that the user's (990) hands actually use the
opposing arms when the exercises are switched. This however, does
not alter the motion performed as the motion of one hand for any
given exercise is preferably the mirror motion of the other hand
(as most humans are generally symmetrical). Therefore as the motion
is generally mirrored across the plane through the user (from front
to back) as illustrated in FIG. 7D as plane of symmetry (960), so
long as the user maintains his/her positioning (symmetry) relative
to plane of symmetry (960) when changing between exercises, the
motion of each hand is the same regardless of which hand uses which
arm. In another embodiment, however, non-symmetrical motion can be
used where each arc is actually different from every other arc, or
at least one subset of arcs is different from at least one further
subset of arcs. It is preferred, however, that the user's torso
maintain its symmetry relative to the plane of symmetry (960)
through all movements.
[0066] The principles of FIG. 7D can be further generalized, and
what becomes apparent is that a user can be placed into a multitude
of positions relative to two arms on an exercise machine which each
have a fixed path (one for either side of their body), where each
of the arms has a plurality of places where the user can interact
therewith. These can either be separate handles, or places where a
single handle can be placed. The user can then grasp a set of
handles at a particular location and perform a particular exercise
utilizing the arms. The user could then change position and/or
change the handles they are grasping to perform another exercise on
a related arc while maintaining the symmetry of their torso
relative to the plane of symmetry (960). For instance, the user
could rotate 180 degrees, could lean at different angles forward or
back, or could change using a combination of the two. In a still
further embodiment, the handles could move on the arm so that they
can be positioned at different points as if there was more than one
handle on each arm.
[0067] This interrelated motion provides for multiple resultant
exercises. In an embodiment, it is possible that an exercise
machine can be built which has a single one-directional resistance
object, with a single rotational attachment to a single arm and a
user of the machine can perform any exercise utilizing rotational
motion through an appropriate arrangement of arms, handle
manipulation points, and user positions. Such exercises are
generally push or pull-type exercises that either converge or
diverge. Generally, this case will involve two arms, each with the
singular rotational point, so as to provide for movement of two
body parts (e.g. the two hands) simultaneously. In particular, this
motion can allow for subsets of related exercises to be performed
on the same arms, following the same or similar paths. This saves
space and allows for multiple exercises to be performed. These
exercises can include, but are not limited to, chest presses,
lateral pulls, rowing exercises, and shoulder presses.
[0068] FIGS. 1-6 now provide for an embodiment of an exercise
machine (10) which utilizes the above principles to provide the
user with at least two different exercises performed using two sets
of related arcs on an arm which follows a single fixed path for
both exercises. One of ordinary skill in the art would understand
that other exercises could also be provided on the same machine, in
particular, additional handles could be attached to either or both
arms to provide additional exercises on related arcs, or additional
arms or mechanisms could be added to allow a user to use the
resistance object (s) to perform an unrelated exercise such as leg
extension (leg curl) arm (47). One of ordinary skill in the art
would also recognize that exercise machine (10) provides at least
four exercises as the arms can be exercised separately (which could
be considered a separate exercise). The machine in FIG. 1 is
designed to perform both a converging chest press exercise and a
diverging rowing exercise but one of ordinary skill in the art
would understand that other exercises (such as a lateral pull) can
use similar arms with changes of the orientation relative to the
arms, or other related arcs provided by other handle manipulation
points on those arms.
[0069] In the broadest sense, a strength machine, such as exercise
machine (10), includes four components. There is some form of
resistance object which provides the resistance the user works
against, there is a bench which is the place where the user is
placed to interact with the machine, there is a mechanism which, in
conjunction with related structures, transfers the work of the user
to the resistance, and there is a frame to support the
structure.
[0070] FIG. 1 shows the primary components of an embodiment of an
exercise machine (10). The exercise machine (10) is primarily for
use in performing exercises to strengthen and/or tone the muscles
of the torso and/or arms and will often be similar in design to
those types of machines referred to as chest presses. The exercise
machine (10) allows a user to perform both push-type, pull-type,
converging, and diverging exercises for muscles primarily in the
upper torso and arms by allowing a user to have two different
"seating" positions to access two rigid arms, each with at least
two handles or a single handle movable between two positions. Each
arm is individually attached to the frame so each arm traverses an
independent fixed path in conformity with the above principles.
[0071] Exercise machine (10) comprises a frame (50) which is
generally manufactured of steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, or other
strong and rigid construction materials. In particular, the frame
(50) is generally made of hollow tubes composed of these materials.
For the purposes of this disclosure, it should be recognized that a
tube can have any shape as a cross-section and can be either hollow
or solid. Therefore the term "tubes" as used herein should be
considered to include any solid or hollow structure having any
cross-sectional shape. In an embodiment, at least some of the tubes
are hollow and have a cross-sectional shape which is generally in
the shape of a race track.
[0072] The frame (50) comprises a base member (101) which serves as
the primary support for the remaining components and rests upon a
surface where the exercise machine (10) is to be placed. In the
depicted embodiment, base member (101) is generally T-shaped to
provide for a stable base, however other shapes of the base member
(101) could be used as would be understood by one of ordinary skill
in the art. The rest of frame (50) extends generally vertically
from the base member (101) and is supported by the base member
(101) to define the general shape of the machine.
[0073] Associated with frame (50) there are weights (151) or other
resistance object(s) for providing resistance to the user's
movement so that the movement requires work and results in
exercise. In the depicted embodiment, weights (151) are in a weight
enclosure (159) when at rest. Resistance is created by weights
(151) being lifted in an upward direction forcing the movement of
the mass of the weights (151) against the force of a gravitational
field (e.g. as shown in FIG. 4). As would be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art, the lifting of weights (151) is not the
only way to create work and other resistance object(s) could be
used instead of or in addition to weights (151). These include, but
are not limited to, fluid devices (such as pneumatic or hydraulic
pistons) where work may be used to extend or contract, elastic
materials where work alters the shape or alignment of the material
(such as elastics, rubber bands, springs, or bendable tubes),
friction devices, electromagnetic devices, or any combination of
different resistance objects.
[0074] In an embodiment, the resistance object(s) will only provide
resistance in a single direction. Specifically, the resistance
object will have a singular resting state where it will exist
unless a force is applied to it. Using weights (151), the weights
(151) will rest on the base member (101) or a shelf (not shown)
attached to base member (101) under the force of earth's
gravitational field (the resting state). Weights (151) can be
lifted to raise them from the base member (101), but this lifting
requires the imposition of another force on weights (151). Weights
(151) will also return to the resting state if the other force is
removed. To put this another way, a one-way resistance object is
affected by a returning force to return it to a resting state. To
move the resistance object from the resting state, therefore, the
user must generate an "exercise force" to oppose the returning
force of the resistance object. Some of these returning forces can
include, but are not limited to, gravity, pressure differential, or
the return force of a spring.
[0075] In another embodiment, the resistance object can be a
two-way or bi-directional resistance object. This type of a
resistance object allows for a resistance force to be generated in
both directions. A method of achieving this is if the object has no
defined resting state, but instead always requires the imposition
of an exercise force to move the object from any state to any other
state. Examples of this type of two-way resistance objects can
include pressure cylinders (such as pneumatic or hydraulic
cylinders) where the material in the cylinder is allowed to flow to
either side of the piston head through a restrictive opening. There
is, therefore, always resistance to motion as the piston head will
displace the material regardless of the direction it is moved.
Generally two-way resistance objects will utilize friction,
pressure, surface tension, or similar resistances. Another method
is where the object has a defined resting state, but is moved from
this state by moving a mechanism in different directions, such as
through the use of gearing, clutches, levers, or other
mechanisms.
[0076] Weight support bars (153) are provided which run through
holes in the weights (151) and secure them to frame (50) and
position them relative to base member (101). As weight support bars
(153) are generally perpendicular to the base member (101), when
the weights (151) are lifted they are forced to be lifted in a
generally linear manner, and are not allowed to swing which could
render the exercise machine (10) unstable. In an alternative
embodiment, however, weight support bars (153) may be angled,
curved, bent, arcuate or of any other relationship which is not
perpendicular to allow for a more dynamic feel to the exercise.
Weight support bars may also be flexible instead of rigid, may
allow different degrees of freedom or may be completely
non-existent in alternative embodiments.
[0077] Weights (151) are generally lifted through an application of
force onto the arms (205R) and/or (205L) which are what transfers
the work performed by the user to the resistance object upon which
the work is performed. The arms (205R) and/or (205L) are
mechanically connected to frame (50) in a manner allowing them to
move relative to the frame along a fixed path. While the path may
change between exercises, the path remains fixed during any
singular exercise. A fixed path need not be identical in every
pass. Instead, in a fixed path the motion of the arc is within a
fixed subset of predetermined paths or is a singular path.
Preferably, each of the arms (205R) and/or (205L) is connected
rotatably at a rotation surface (306R) and/or (306L) so that each
independently rotates through a unique fixed path and are both
connected to the weights (151) in a manner where the predetermined
rotation of the arms (205R) and/or (205L) is translated into motion
for raising the weights (151).
[0078] In another embodiment, the arms (205R) and/or (205L) need
not be attached about a rotational axis, but may be otherwise
attached so as to provide for a fixed path of motion corresponding
to predetermined arcs being traced by handles (403R), (413R),
(403L), and (413L). This may be, but is not limited to, having the
arms (205R) and/or (205L) traverse along a track or similar object
of a predetermined shape (regardless of shape) so as to direct the
motion of the arms. For instance, a point on the arm could follow
the path of a hyperbolic or linear arc. In another embodiment, the
arm could traverse multiple tracks so that the resultant motion of
a point on the arm where the handle is located follows the desired
arc. For instance, the arm could be supported at each end within a
linear track so that translation of one end necessarily results in
a translation of the other end (possibly in opposing directions)
and a handle on the arm moves on a predetermined arc (whether
curved, bent or linear). In still a further embodiment, a single
arm could be connected by other components to rotate about multiple
axes, such as by having the arm rotate utilizing two connector arms
rotatably connected thereto and rotatably connected to the frame (a
4-bar mechanism) in a manner that would be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0079] The direction of the applied exercise force can be
translated from the direction that the user directs it (which is
generally arcuate), to a direction opposing the returning force
(which is generally vertically upward in the case of weights (151)
being the resistance). In the depicted embodiment, this connection
comprises pulling a cable or cables (155) attached to the arms
(205R) and (205L) at cable attachments (255R) and (255L). In
another embodiment, cable (155) could actually comprise the arms
(205R) and/or (205L). The cables' (155) motion is translated by
pulleys (157) until it is transferred to weights (151) in a lifting
motion. One of ordinary skill in the art would, however, understand
that cables (155) and/or pulleys (157) are not necessary and other
processes could be used so that moving arms (205R) and/or (205L)
requires the performing of work by the user. This translation of
force merely allows for an exercise force applied by the user to be
directed in a desired direction, it does not change the one-way or
two-way nature of the resistance object.
[0080] In particular, for the device of FIG. 1, the returning force
of the weights (which are a one-way resistance object) will pull
the arms (205L) and (205R) in a generally backward direction,
therefore the user would provide a force in a generally forward
direction to perform the exercise. The terms backward and forward
are arbitrarily assigned in this case with backward representing
generally the direction left and into the page of FIG. 1 and
forward being the opposite relative to the exercise machine (10).
For simplicity's sake, the direction of the exercise force will be
defined as the direction of force provided by the user, not the
direction after it is translated by the connector associated with
the arms (205L) and (205R). However, neither these definitions, nor
any other, are intended to limit the scope of the terms as would be
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0081] In order to effectively manipulate arms (205L) and (205R),
each arm is provided with at least two handles. However, in another
embodiment, only a single handle on each arm is used which can be
moved between at least two positions. The handles comprise handles
(403L) and (413L) for left arm (205L) and handles (403R) and (413R)
for right arm (205R). The handles (403L), (413L), (403R), and
(413R) provide the points that the user will grip when performing
the exercise, therefore the range of motion of the various handles
relative to the user will define the path that the user's hands
take when performing the exercise. Also attached to frame (50) is a
bench (171) which is generally positioned so as to place the user
relative to the arms (205R) and/or (205L) for performing the
exercise. In an alternative embodiment, bench (171) need not be
attached to frame (50) but may be positionable relative to frame
(50) or not present at all.
[0082] FIGS. 3 through 6 show how exercise machine (10) allows the
user to rotate to perform two different exercises (as previously
shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D in a general overview) and utilizing two
pairs of handles (4 total), one pair reachable for each position
and two on each of two arms. To accomplish this rotation, the bench
(171) may allow for two different positionings of the body. In the
depicted embodiment, in one position, the user faces forward on the
machine. In this position, they will be performing push-type
converging exercises. A user in this position is shown in FIGS. 3
and 4. In the alternative position, the user is reversed and would
be sitting facing backward, this position will generally be used
for pull-type diverging exercises. A user in this second position
is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 (from a reverse angle). The user may be
rotated a full 180 degrees as shown in this embodiment, or may
simply be facing the opposite direction, but placed at a different
angle to be reversed. In effect, by changing the position of the
user the user can access a different set of handles and can perform
exercises where their motion is in a different direction to them
while the exercise force is always generated in the same direction.
This generally corresponds to the motion depicted in FIG. 7D.
[0083] Although the bench in the depicted embodiment of FIGS. 1
through 6 is fixed in position and the user rotates (reverses)
thereon that is by no means required. In another embodiment, the
bench (171) may be adjustable relative to the frame (50) to allow
for comfortable manipulation of the arms (205L) or (205R) at the
different sets of handles (403L) (403R) and (413L) (413R). In the
depicted embodiment, the bench (171) has two portions, a back
portion (173) and a seat portion (175). Either of these portions
may be adjustable on the frame moving in any or all directions
(horizontal, vertical, lateral axes or combination thereof) or
rotations to allow the user to position themselves for comfortable
exercising. In an embodiment, the bench (171) is designed to have a
singular predetermined position for a user which is used for both
exercises. To put it another way, the user does not move the bench
(171) when going from a pull-type to the corresponding push-type
exercise. In another embodiment, the back portion (173) may remain
in a predetermined position relative to the seat portion even if
the seat portion (175) moves or vice versa. In still another
embodiment, the bench (171) can be reversed like the user, or can
be placed in a complementary position (such as by reversing the
back portion (173)). Generally, the position of the bench (171)
will be lockable so that when the bench (171) is placed in a
particular position, it can be held there rigidly until the user
wishes it to move. This type of locking may be performed through a
plurality of methods, as would be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0084] The user need not sit upright in the bench (171) (as
depicted in FIGS. 3-6). In an alternative embodiment, the back
portion (173) could be capable of rotation. Particularly, the back
portion could rotate to an angle relative to the vertical. In this
position, the user could also perform an incline or shoulder
push-type exercise by rotating the bench forward (changing the
alignment of their torso to the path of the handles). An associated
pull-type exercise may be performed using the same arrangement but
with a transition to deal with a complementary angle issue if the
exercise occurs at an angle. In this embodiment generally the bench
will rotate with the user between the exercises. It would be
recognized that the "rotation" discussed above need not be a
rotation at all but simply could be any reconfiguring of the
components of the bench (171) or the use of an additional
bench.
[0085] As the user rotates between the two positions, the handles
they will use are preferably in front of them which is part of why
this embodiment uses both a rotation of the user and different sets
of handles to provide for the different exercises. One of skill in
the art would recognize, however, that depending on the exercise
being performed (the desired arc and arc direction) and the type of
resistance object used, either the user, the handles, or both could
be repositioned between exercises depending on the embodiment. It
should be clear that the user's torso maintains its symmetry
relative to a fixed plane through the various movements.
[0086] In simplification, each handle (403L), (403R), (413L), and
(413R) is generally positioned so as to traverse one of the arcs
(901), (911), (903) and (913) as shown in FIG. 7D starting at the
appropriate points (the actual arcs are slightly more complicated,
but this shows some general concepts). In particular, handle (403R)
generally traverses arc (901), handle (403L) generally traverses
arc (903), handle (413R) generally traverses arc (913), and handle
(413L) generally traverses arc (911) all in the indicated
directions.
[0087] Further, while FIGS. 3 through 6 show the performance of the
above two exercises, it should be appreciated that by moving the
user relative to the handles, with arm motion along a singular
fixed path, the user can perform virtually any exercise. In
particular, in FIG. 7D the user could be moved to the forward-most
part of the circles and then face rearward to perform a converging
pull-type exercise using the same handle he used for the converging
push-type exercise, as shown in FIG. 7E.
[0088] When performing the exercise, the user would generally
operate the machine as shown in FIGS. 3 through 6. To perform a
push-type exercise the user would arrange the bench (171) to a
position for the type of exercise they wish to perform to a
comfortable location. They would then take a first position on the
bench (171) facing forward of the machine (10) and grasp push
handles (403R) and (403L). They would then push away from their
body, moving arms (205R) and (205L) forward against resistance.
This is depicted as the transition of FIG. 3 to FIG. 4. To perform
a pull-type exercise, the user would again arrange bench (171).
However, they would take a second position facing backward to the
machine (10) (rotated 180 degrees) where they would grasp pull
handles (413R) and (413L) and pull them toward their body. Grasping
and pulling pull handles (413R) and (413L) from this second
position would move arms (205L) and (205R) forward against
resistance in a similar motion as the push-type exercise. This
motion is depicted as the transition of FIG. 5 to FIG. 6. FIGS. 5
and 6 are from a reverse angle to FIGS. 3 and 4 to better show the
motion of the user and machine.
[0089] It should be further apparent from FIGS. 3 through 6 that
the handle sets (403R)/(413R) and (403L)/(413L) will traverse the
same arc regardless of which handle on the particular arm is being
moved, presuming that the handles are not moved relative to each
other (such as in the case to avoid impact as discussed later) when
switching which handle is being moved. Further, the user can select
other positions relative to the arms to perform different exercises
by moving the bench and/or their body to other locations relative
to the arms (or by adjusting the frame to have the same net
result).
[0090] The design of the arm (205R) is discussed in more depth to
explain an embodiment of structure which allows for the handles to
each traverse the desired arcs. While this discussion will
primarily discuss the design of right arm (205R), the left arm
(205L) is essentially a mirror image of the right arm (205R). It
would therefore be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art
how to adapt the discussion below concerning the structure of right
arm (205R) to making the left arm (205L). To provide for reference
to the components of the arms, the same reference numbers will be
used on the right arm (205R) as the left arm (205L) while letters
will denote the particular arm being discussed. E.g., (403R)
indicates the push handle specifically on the right arm (205R)
while (403L) indicates the push handle specifically on the left arm
(205L).
[0091] As shown in FIG. 2, the right arm (205R) is composed of
three primary subparts. The lever tube (307R), the adjustment arm
(401R), and the extension tube (451R). The first two portions are
generally rigidly attached to one another to form part of the
structure of right arm (205R) with extension tube (451R) slideably
attached thereto. Right arm (205R) is preferably of a rigid or
semi-rigid construction or one with otherwise limited variance to
its shape. Right arm (205R) rotates about a pivot point relative to
frame (50). The pivot point is created by having a pivot tube
(303R) which is allowed to rotate about (or to rotate with) a
smaller inner core (not visible) or other rotational object. The
rotation is relative to a portion of the frame (50) so that there
is a singular fixed axis of rotation (305R) of right arm (205R). In
another embodiment, alternative forms of mechanisms may be used to
provide rotation, or other movement on a fixed path.
[0092] Attached to pivot tube (303R) is lever tube (307R). Lever
tube (307R) is arranged to be generally radially extended from the
axis of rotation (305R) to provide for a lever motion along a
radial of the axis of rotation (305R). The lever tube (307R) may be
bent into an angle to provide for a point of attachment (309R)
appropriately positioned for attachment of the adjustment arm
(401R). Because attachment point (309R) is resultantly radially
extended (by R.sub.1) relative to the axis of rotation (305R) (e.g.
it is not on the axis of rotation (305R)), the point of attachment
(309R) transcribes an arc around the axis of rotation when
moved.
[0093] Attached to lever tube (307R) at attachment point (309R) is
adjustment tube (401R). Adjustment tube (401R) will generally be
attached to the lever tube (307R) at an approximately 90 degree
angle forming a "T" shape, but any arrangement may be used. In this
way, the approximate center of adjustment tube (401R) will be
generally tangential to the arc transcribed by the connection point
(309R). The adjustment tube (401R) may be bent, however, as shown
in FIG. 2. This bending can be utilized to adjust the particular
shape and/or size of the arc traversed by the handle (403R)
attached to extension tube (451R) and handle (413R) attached to
adjustment tube (401R). This is as shown in FIG. 7D, for instance,
with adjustment tube (401R) essentially being arm (971) and is
indicated by the handles being R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 distances from
the axis of rotation (305R). Adjustment tube's (401R) bent shape
allows for the placement of handles thereon which have different
radiuses of rotation at different positions in space around axis of
rotation (305R) by moving the points where a handle is connected
closer to or further from the axis of rotation (305R) changing the
radius of the resultant arc (as shown by radiuses R.sub.2 and
R.sub.3) and placing the handle connection points so the resultant
arcs are in the proper position for performing the desired
exercise. Further, the adjustment tube (401R) may allow for
alteration of the arc being used (by changing R.sub.2 and/or
R.sub.3) and/or translation of the starting points on a resultant
arc.
[0094] Attached to the extension tube (451R) is a push handle
(403R) while attached to the adjustment tube (401R) is a pull
handle (413R) (which may be adjustable thereon). The push handle
(403R) is mounted on the forward of the lever tube (307R), while
the pull handle is mounted backward of the lever tube (307R). This
arrangement allows for a prescribed range of motion such as that
shown in FIGS. 3-6. In particular, each handle will transcribe an
arc, these arcs may be slightly larger or smaller than the arc
transcribed by connection point (309R) depending on the orientation
(bending) of the adjustment tube (401R). By bending the adjustment
tube (401R) as shown, the handles can also be placed on the arc
which is or would be transcribed by the attachment point (309R) or
on any other arc. In an embodiment, the handles could transcribe
portions of the same arc, but that arc could be different from the
arc transcribed by the connection point. In another embodiment,
each handle could transcribe its own arc. These alternative
embodiments can allow for adjustment of the relative motions of the
handles (403R) and (413R) to accommodate changes in the motion for
push-type versus pull-type exercises and to allow for the lever arm
(307R) to be positioned so as to be clear of the user throughout
its motion.
[0095] Associated with the adjustment tube (401R) is cable
connection (255R) which is located toward the backward end of the
adjustment tube (401R). Cable connection (255R), as discussed
previously, provides for the connection between the cable (155), to
which the weights (151) are ultimately attached, and the adjustment
tube (401R). The cable connection's (255R) location provides for
the returning force provided by the weights (151) to be directed
backward of the machine (10) providing that the exercise force
provided by the user should be generally horizontal and in the
forward arcuate direction of the machine (10) as discussed
earlier.
[0096] In the depicted embodiment, the push handle (403R) is
mounted on an adjustable extension tube (451R) which can slide
relative to adjustment tube (401R) (such as into and out of
adjustment tube (401R)). This allows for users of different body
sizes to adjust the position of the push handle (403R) to better
accommodate the size of their body. In another embodiment, the
adjustment can allow for the inclusion of additional exercises on
the arm. Further, the adjustment of the push handle (403R) and
(403L) allows for the arms (205R) and (205L) to miss each other
when the pull-type exercise is being performed. Generally, when the
pull-type exercise is being performed, it will be preferable for
the push handles (403L) and (403R) to be able to "swing through" a
larger arc than when the push handles (403L) and (403R) are being
actively used. In particular, it is desirable for the push handles
(403L) and (403R), if arranged for use in a push-type exercise, to
cross when the arms (205L) and (205R) are used for a pull-type
exercise. As the handles (403L) and (403R) are usually rigid, this
is not generally possible. If the push handles (403L) and (403R)
are located on extension tubes, the handles (403L) and (403R) can
be extended to different distances or the handles (403R) and (403L)
can be rotated outward. For example, push handle (403L) can be
extended further than push handle (403R). In this way, when the
arms (205R) and (205L) are rotated during a pull exercise, the
handles (403L) and (403R) will miss interacting with each other
allowing for a slightly larger motion for the pull-type exercise,
than in the push-type exercise. Further, it prevents the user from
receiving an unwelcome shock when, during a pull-type exercise, the
push handles (403R) or (403L) hit.
[0097] FIG. 6 shows how arranging the arms (205L) and (205R) to
different lengths allows handles (403L) and (403R) to miss each
other. This motion is basically the same as that of FIG. 7D,
however, the arcs traced are all slightly larger when the handles
are offset and the position of the arc (903) for the handle which
is extended in FIG. 6, corresponds to the position that handle
would have been in if not moved, not the position it is in.
[0098] The extension tube (451R) may be connected with the
adjustment tube (401R) through a locking mechanism using a spring
pin, a cotter pin or another type of object (491R) which can fit
through a hole in the extension tube (451R) and a corresponding
hole in the adjustment tube (401R). In another embodiment, an
alternative locking mechanism other than a hole and pin can be used
as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0099] The two handles (403R) and (413R) are generally of the same
shape. In the depicted embodiment, the handles are generally
U-shaped. This is only one of many embodiments of handle (403R)
and/or handle (413R) as they can assume virtually any shape as well
as shapes different from each other. Further, the handles may be of
the same shape but differently oriented relative to the rest of the
arm (205R). Handle (403R) or (413R) is generally gripped by the
user in their hand and is the contact point for the transference of
the force generated by the user to the exercise machine (10) to
perform the work to lift the weights (151). The depicted design of
the handles (403R) and (413R) are preferred because they allow for
a more natural grip for performing the desired exercises. In
particular, the user can grip either vertical portion of the handle
(403R) or (413R). A user could alternatively grasp the horizontal
portion of the handle (403R) or (413R).
[0100] Generally, the two arms (205L) and (205R) will move
independent of each other as they each rotate about a different
axis of rotation (305L) or (305R). This can allow the user to more
easily isolate a muscle group on either the left or right side of
their body. Further, independent motion will help to insure that
each arm is performing work involved in the exercise to improve the
overall results and prevent one stronger arm from overly
compensating for the other. In still another embodiment, the
individual motion can allow for the total weight being lifted to be
split evenly between the arms. This independent operation is
demonstrated in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 shows an
embodiment of an exercise machine (10) with one arm raised and the
other arm lowered with a user at the apex of a single arm push-type
converging exercise. As discussed above, this exercise is still a
converging exercise as the motion of the single arm is identical to
that when the hands converge. A singular arm pull-type exercise
could also be performed. In still another embodiment, the arms
could be connected to make their motion dependent.
[0101] FIGS. 11-18 provide depictions of an additional embodiment
of an exercise machine (20) which can also provide for similar
exercises and motions. While, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6, the
different exercises were performed by having handles (403L),
(403R), (413L) and (413R) which either moved between different
points on the exercise arm (205R) or (205L) or were positioned at
different points on the exercise arm (205R) or (205L) (as
depicted), the embodiment of FIGS. 11-18 provide for an alternative
arrangement whereby the arms (1205R) and (1205L), and the handles
(1405R) and (1405L) thereon, to be adjusted between the different
exercise positions. In the specific depicted embodiment, this is
through the use of a locking pin system and a secondary set of axes
of rotation about which the arms can be positioned.
[0102] In this embodiment, the machine (20) is similarly comprised
of a frame (50), base member (101), and weights (151) (not shown in
FIGS. 11-18) or other resistance object. The machine (20) also
includes a bench (171) comprised of a back portion (173) and seat
portion (175) and other related structures as discussed in the
other embodiments above. This machine (20) again has the axes of
rotation (305R) and (305L) positioned above the user for defining
the exercise motion. For purposes of this embodiment, these are
referred to as primary set or exercise set of axes (305). Again,
those axes (305R) and (305L) are arranged at an angle relative to
the horizontal and vertical planes associated with the machine
(20). Specifically the axes (305R) and (305L) are arranged to be
about 45 to about 55 degrees from the vertical plane which would
run through the center of the machine separating the left and right
sides. This means that angle (A) between them will generally be
about 90 to about 110 degrees, being preferably about 100
degrees.
[0103] The arrangement of the primary axes (305) is thus generally
in an upright "V" shape. This provides that when the handles, when
positioned forward of the plane including the axes, are moved from
the back toward the front of the machine, will generally move
upward and together. If the handles are positioned behind that same
plane, the handles will generally move downward and apart when
moved from the back forward toward the front of the machine. The
first part of this motion is usually desired for performing press
or push type exercises, while the latter is generally desired for
performing arm pull type exercises.
[0104] It should be noted that the "V" formed of the axes, while
generally upright, does not need to be vertical, and the plane
including the primary axes (305) may tilt forward or backward from
the vertical which will simply alter the point of convergence and
the specific shape of arc made relative to a user that is on the
bench (171). It is generally preferred that the plane of the
primary axes (305) be slightly tilted from vertical, generally no
more than 7 degrees forward or back. It is generally more preferred
that the axes be arranged 2 degrees back from vertical (that is
that the open portion of the "V" is behind the point as is shown in
FIG. 12A among others).
[0105] In the depicted embodiment, the arms (1205R) and (1205L) are
held in place by rotation tubes (1136R) and (1136L) which rotate
about the points (306R) and (306L) attached to the top of the
overhanging support beam (1138). In an alternative embodiment,
however, plates or other mechanisms can be provided which allow for
the tubes (1136R) and (1136L) to be positioned above, below, to the
side, behind, or in front of the support beam (1138), depending on
the desired aesthetics and size of the machine (20). This can also
serve to mount the rotation at two points (one on either end of the
tube (1136R) or (1136L)) and can provide for improved aesthetics
and protect the rotating components from interaction with outside
objects. Further, while the tubes (1136R) or (1136L) are shown
above the overhead support in the embodiment of FIGS. 11-18, this
is not required and they may be held above, below, behind, in
front, or to the side of the support (1138). Generally, the tubes
(1136R) and (1136L), however, will be positioned so as to place
them generally above the user's head when they are seated on the
bench (171).
[0106] Attached to each of the rotation tubes (1136R) or (1136L),
so that it can rotate about the axis (305L) or (305R) is a
positioning system (1110L) and (1110R). The positioning system
(1110L) and (1110R) serves to provide a secondary point of
adjustment. Effectively, rotation about the primary axes (305)
provides for the exercise motion while adjustment of arms (1205R)
and (1205L) and handles (1405R) or (1405L) within the positioning
system (1110R) and (1110L) serves to select the exercise to be
performed by providing for initial and final relative handle
position and an appropriate relative range of motion within that
available from the rotations about the axes (305). Thus, the
positioning system (1110R) and (1110L), in the depicted embodiment,
allows for the arms (1205R) and (1205L) to be positioned in a
plurality of positions relative to the associated positioning
system (1110R) or (1110L), and, once locked into position, for the
positioning system (1110R) and (1110L) and arms (1205R) and (1205L)
to move, in combination, relative to the frame (50) about the
primary axes (305). Each positioning system (1110R) and (1110L) is
comprised of three functional, but rigidly interconnected
components, in the depicted embodiment, these are the resistance
plate (1111R) or (1111L), the selector guide or pin plate (1115R)
and (1115L), and the offset plate (1113R) or (1113L) which
interconnects them. Each positioning system (1110R) or (1110L) also
defines a secondary axis (1305R) or (1305L). These axes are
together the secondary axes (1305).
[0107] The resistance plate (1111R) or (1111L) will generally be
arranged in the plane of rotation (that is perpendicular to the
appropriate axis of rotation (305R) or (305L)) and will generally
serve to provide a lever with the associated axis of rotation
(305R) and (305L) located toward one end of the resistance plate
(1111R) or (1111L). The connection cable (155) for connection to
the weight stack (or other forms of resistance) (151) will then
generally be attached to the opposing end of the resistance plate
(1111R) and (1111L). For direct gravity resistance, the resistance
plates (1111R) and (1111L) will generally extend away from the
primary axes (305) in a fashion to provide that they rotate from
the resting position to an engaged position (where the resistance
is being lifted), the opposing end where the attachment occurs
generally is provided with a more upward movement to provide a
smoother motion. Thus, the movement distance of the weight or
resistance object (151) is determined by the resistance plates
(1111R) and (1111L) fixed rotation about the appropriate axis.
Further, as the plate (1111L) and (1111R) is generally in the plane
of rotation, the cable (155) is generally pulled in a more linear
fashion which can keep motion smooth and inhibit the cable (155)
from jumping off of the various pulleys (157) in the frame
(20).
[0108] Attached to each of the resistance plates (1111R) and
(1111L) is an offset plate (1113R) and (1113L). In the depicted
embodiment, this offset plate (1113R) and (1113L) is generally
triangular in shape and can be arranged so that it sits generally
parallel to the overhead support beam (1138) when the arms (1205R)
and (1205L) are in the start or resting position (as shown in FIG.
16). The offset plates (1113R) and (1113L) will generally serve to
interconnect the pin plate (1115R) and (1115L) to the associated
resistance plates (1111R) and (1111L) and that interconnection will
generally place the pin plate (1115R) and (1115L) at a position
non-parallel (and generally non-perpendicular) to the associated
resistance plate (1111R) or (1111L). Specifically, while the
resistance plate (1111R) and (1111L) will be positioned at a fairly
large angle to the overhead support (1138) (and thus the center
line vertical plane of the machine (20)), the pin plate (1115R) and
(1115L) will generally be positioned so as to be closer to the
vertical plane of the machine (20). However, the pin plate will
generally still not be perpendicular to the ground or parallel to
the central plane of the machine (20). Instead, each pin plate
(1115R) or (1115L) will angle inward toward the central plane of
the machine (20) when moving from the machine's front to its back
(right to left in FIG. 12A). This is as opposed to the resistance
plate (1111R) or (1111L) which tilts away from the central plane of
the machine (20). Thus, as is visible in FIG. 16, the planes of the
resistance plate (1111R) and (1111L) and associated pin plate
(1115R) and (1115L) intersect.
[0109] The pin plate (1115R) and (1115L) interacts via a prong or
other structure with a second rotational tube (1212R) or (1212L)
which is generally a portion of the associated arm (1205R) or
(1205L) positioned to rotate around a second axis of (1305R) or
(1305L) rotation. The second axes of rotation (1305R) and (1305L)
will generally be perpendicular to the associated pin plate (1115R)
and (1115L), but this is not required although it generally
simplifies operation. The second axes of rotation (1305R) and
(1305L) are generally non-parallel and non-perpendicular to the
associated primary axis of rotation (305R) and (305L) in all
dimensions. Further, the actual point of rotation (1306R) and
(1306L) for the secondary axes (1305R) and (1305L) are generally
dimensionally offset from the point of rotation (306R) or (306L) of
the primary axes (305R) and (305L). Thus, the two sets of axes
(1305) and (305) are effectively independent of each other. It
should be recognized that rotation of the arms (1205R) and (1205L)
about the secondary set of axes (1305) causes no rotation about the
primary set (305), however, rotation of the positioning systems
(1110R) and (1110L) about the primary set of axes (305) results in
the secondary set of axis (1305) being spatially translated as the
points of rotation (1306R) and (1306L) are attached to the
associated positioning system (1110R) and (1110L), which rotate
about the first set of axes (305).
[0110] Examining solely about the right side of the machine (the
left side being a similar minor image), connected to the second
rotational tube (1212R) is the arm (1205R). The arm (1205R)
includes an upper orifice (1251R) which would include a locking pin
(not shown). The locking pin will generally be biased toward an
inward position and will be biased so that, in its resting
position, the pin will extend through the orifice (1251R) and into
one of the plurality of holes (1253R) in the pin plate (1111R).
This serves to position the arm (1205R), relative to the second
axis of rotation (1305R) at a fixed (or locked) position. However,
by withdrawing the pin from the hole (1253R), the arm (1205R) can
be rotated about the second axis of rotation (1305R) to a new
position. The pin can again be released, and the pin can enter a
second hole (1253R) in the plurality. This fixedly positions the
arm (1205R) in a different position.
[0111] Generally, there will be at least two, and more preferably
three or more holes (1253R) on the pin plate (1115R). These
positions will correspond to different exercises and may correspond
to the positions used for a shoulder press, an incline press, a
chest press, and a row exercise in an embodiment. In a still
further embodiment, additional holes (1253R) may be included to
provide for variations of exercise between those of the above
exercises, or to allow for user adjustment to compensate for
different sized users or body exercise requirements. In a still
further, embodiment, the plurality of holes (1253R) may be replaced
by a single elongated opening or eliminated entirely and the pin
can be replaced by a device which can provide for frictional or
other rigid engagement at any position of the arm (1205R) over the
plate (1115R).
[0112] The arm (1205R) will generally extend downward and terminate
in a grasping portion (1415R). In the depicted embodiment, the
grasping portion (1415R) includes a plurality of handles (1405R),
but may alternatively include only a single handle (1405R). The
grasping portion (1415R) may also be adjustable relative to the arm
(1205R) to provide for specific positioning for individual users
and comfort in the machine's (20) operation. Inclusion of the
plurality of handles (1405R) is generally preferred as it allows
for a user to alter the radius of the exercise motion, without
having to adjust the machine (20). Specifically, with current
understanding of desired range of motion for chest press, incline
press, shoulder press, and row exercises, the inclusion of the
plurality of handles (1405R) (or other structure to allow the user
to alter the radius of rotation about the primary axes (305)),
allows the machine (20) to have the secondary axes (1305)
positioned more forward on the machine (20), which allows for
simpler construction and can provide an improved exercise path.
[0113] In operation, the machine (20) can provide for a plurality
of different exercises through the positioning of the arms (1205R)
and (1205L) relative to the secondary axes (1305R) and (1305L).
Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12C, the arm (1305R) can be
positioned more in front of the bench (171) (FIG. 12A), more over
the bench (171) (FIG. 12B), or behind the bench (171) (FIG. 12C).
The position of the handle (1405R) in FIG. 12A can correspond to
the position of the first handle (403R) in FIG. 1 and the position
of FIG. 12C can correspond to the position of the second handle
(413R) in the same FIG. 1. This, again, provides for positioning
for performing different exercises.
[0114] As should be apparent, the use of two different sets of axes
(1305) and (305) of rotation (and specifically an adjustment or
secondary set (1305) and the primary or exercise set (305))
provides for a number of benefits. As discussed above, rotation
about the primary axes (305) serves to provide a converging or
diverging exercise motion depending on where the handles (1405R) or
(1405L) are when the exercise begins. Therefore, the motion is
provided as discussed above in conjunction with other embodiments.
Rotation about the secondary axes (1305), allows for the handles
(1405R) or (1405L) to be moved so as to provide a different
starting position to select the type of exercise to be performed
and adjust the relative range of motion used by the handles (1405R)
and (1405L) as that exercise is performed.
[0115] As the pin plates (1111R) and (1115L), angle inward toward
the centerline of the machine (20) as one moves backward along
them, the handles (1405R) and 1405L) will move closer together (at
their relative starting positions) as the handles (1405R) and
(1405L) are moved from the position of FIG. 12A, to that of 12B to
that of 12C. Thus, FIG. 12A provides a layout which is an effective
shoulder press where the hands begin more at head level and spread
beyond the shoulders. In FIG. 12B, an incline press is provided
where the hands begin above the chest and are slightly closer
together. In FIG. 12C, the user would reverse their position on the
bench (171), so that their chest was against the back portion (173)
of the bench (171), and reach forward. In FIG. 12C the handles
(1405R) and (1405L), thus, begin relatively close together and
would now be moved further apart in a rowing exercise.
[0116] The relative positioning of the two sets of axes (1305) and
(305) and their positioning relative to the bench (171) allows for
the motion provided within each of the above positions to be as
desired. For example, in a shoulder press, the convergence point is
generally further from the body (and more upward) to take into
account the exercise involving some movement of the shoulders in
this general direction, while the chest press provides for a
slightly shorter convergence distance more straight out from the
body.
[0117] It should be recognized that the embodiment of FIGS. 11-18
provides for certain arrangements of components due to the
interaction of the two sets of axes of rotation (1305) and (305).
In particular, because the axes (305R) and (305L) are at an angle
(specifically being non-parallel) and intersect, there is a point
at which the arms (1205R) or (1205L) will change from having a
motion whereby the handles (1405R) and (1405L) move apart, to one
where they move together. Generally, the handles (1405R) and
(1405L) will be positioned rearward of this point or rearward of
the plane including the primary axes (305) for a diverging exercise
and forward of the plane for a converging exercise. Rotation about
the secondary axes (1305R) and (1305L) allows for a user to select
the start and end positions of the handles (1405), and also to
select the handles (1405) relative position and path (whether fixed
or guided) relative to their body.
[0118] While it should be recognized that the embodiment of FIGS.
11-18 provides an embodiment of a machine (20) which allows for
each arm (1205R) and (1205L) to be adjusted between the different
exercise positions via rotation of the arms (1205R) and (1205L),
the use of a pin plate (1115R) and (1115L) in the positioning
system (1110R) and (1110L) is not required to perform this
adjustment. In alternative embodiments, the positioning systems
(1110R) and (1110L) can utilize any of a multitude of different
positions via a frictional or other connection. Further, in another
embodiment, the arms (1205R) and (1205L) need not rotate about the
secondary axes, but may be disconnected from an attachment plate
and moved to an alternative position or can be alternatively
adjustable between different positions using different systems or
means for performing the different exercises.
[0119] FIG. 10 provides for yet another embodiment of an exercise
machine utilizing arms of a different design, a different type of
resistance mechanism, and two benches. This embodiment, however,
utilizes the same principles of motion allowing for a single arm to
have multiple points of interaction with a user to perform multiple
exercises as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-6. This machine
provides two arms (1205R) and (1205L). However, in this embodiment
there are two benches (171) and each arm (1205R) and (1205L)
includes three sets of handles (403R) and (403L), (413R) and
(413L), and (433R) and (433L) to provide for three different
exercises including a converging chest press, a diverging row, and
a diverging lateral pull. Further, in the embodiment of FIG. 10,
the weights (151) are placed directly on the arms (1205R) and
(1205L) eliminating the need for the pulley system shown in the
embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0120] While the invention has been disclosed in connection with
certain preferred embodiments, this should not be taken as a
limitation to all of the provided details. Modifications and
variations of the described embodiments may be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and other
embodiments should be understood to be encompassed in the present
disclosure as would be understood by those of ordinary skill in the
art.
* * * * *