U.S. patent application number 12/411373 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-12 for device for an automatic body fat reducing and muscle building.
Invention is credited to Leonard D. Amalaha.
Application Number | 20120010049 12/411373 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45438994 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120010049 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Amalaha; Leonard D. |
January 12, 2012 |
Device for an Automatic Body Fat Reducing and Muscle Building
Abstract
An apparatus for body fat reduction and muscle building includes
a bridge having a rectangular shape. A chassis is joined to the
bridge and extends away from a back side. A piston having a surface
for applying a load resistance to an abdomen is positioned
proximate the bridge with a stem extending through a central hole.
A swash plate is joined to a distal end of the stem. A return
spring is in communication with the swash plate. A drive shaft is
mounted to the chassis. A cam is joined to the drive shaft where
the cam contacts the swash plate. A motor rotates the drive shaft
and cam to move the piston in a first direction towards the abdomen
and the return spring moves the piston in a second direction away
from the abdomen. A belt secures the bridge to a user with the
piston adjacent to the abdomen.
Inventors: |
Amalaha; Leonard D.;
(Alexandria, VA) |
Family ID: |
45438994 |
Appl. No.: |
12/411373 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2201/1628 20130101;
A61H 2201/5097 20130101; A61H 2201/5007 20130101; A61H 2201/165
20130101; A61H 23/0254 20130101; A61H 1/00 20130101; A61H 2205/083
20130101; H01M 10/46 20130101; A61H 2201/1664 20130101; Y02E 60/10
20130101; A61H 2201/149 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/4 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for body fat reduction and muscle building, the
apparatus comprising: a bridge comprising a generally rectangular
shape comprising a front side, a back side and at least one central
hole extending from said front side to said back side; a chassis
joined to said back side and extending away from said back side; a
piston comprising a surface for applying a load resistance to an
abdomen of a user and a stem centrally located and extending back
from said surface, said piston being positioned proximate said
front side with said stem extending through said central hole; a
swash plate joined to a distal end of said stem; a return spring in
communication with said swash plate; a drive shaft mounted to said
chassis in proximity to said swash plate; a generally circular cam
joined to said drive shaft where said cam contacts said swash
plate; a motor mounted to said chassis for rotating said drive
shaft where a rotation of said drive shaft rotates said cam in
contact with said swash plate to move said piston in a first
direction towards said abdomen and said return spring moves said
piston in a second direction away from said abdomen; and a belt for
securing said bridge to the user with said piston adjacent to said
abdomen.
2. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, wherein said piston further
comprises a generally concave surface.
3. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a
plurality of guide pins joined to said piston for maintaining
alignment of said piston with said bridge.
4. The apparatus as recited in claim 3, further comprising a
plurality of return springs coupled to said plurality of guide pins
for assisting in moving said piston in said second direction.
5. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising control
circuitry for controlling said motor.
6. The apparatus as recited in claim 5, further comprising a remote
unit for controlling said control circuitry.
7. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising at least
one battery for operating the apparatus from a DC source.
8. The apparatus as recited in claim 1, further comprising a dust
boot joined to said piston and said bridge for enclosing said front
side and said surface.
9. The apparatus as recited in claim 8, further comprising an outer
cover joined to said chassis for enclosing said chassis.
10. An apparatus for body fat reduction and muscle building, the
apparatus comprising: means for supporting components of the
apparatus; means for applying a load resistance to an abdomen of a
user said means being positioned proximate a front side of said
supporting means; first means for moving said applying means in a
first direction towards said abdomen; second means for moving said
applying means in a second direction away from said abdomen; and
means for securing said supporting means to the user.
11. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising means
for maintaining alignment of said applying means.
12. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising means
for assisting in moving said applying means in said second
direction.
13. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising means
for controlling said first means.
14. The apparatus as recited in claim 13, further comprising means
for remotely controlling said means for controlling said first
means.
15. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising means
for operating the apparatus from a DC source.
16. The apparatus as recited in claim 10, further comprising means
for enclosing said front side and said applying means.
17. The apparatus as recited in claim 16, further comprising means
for enclosing a back side of said supporting means.
18. An apparatus for body fat reduction and muscle building, the
apparatus comprising: a bridge comprising a generally rectangular
shape comprising a front side, a back side, a central hole
extending from said front side to said back side and a plurality of
guide holes extending from said front side to said back side; a
chassis joined to said back side and extending away from said back
side; a piston comprising a surface for applying a load resistance
to an abdomen of a user and a stem centrally located and extending
back from said surface, said piston being positioned proximate said
front side with said stem extending through said central hole; a
plurality of guide pins joined to said piston for maintaining
alignment of said piston with said bridge; a plurality of guide
springs coupled to said plurality of guide pins; a swash plate
joined to a distal end of said stem; a return spring in
communication with said swash plate; a drive shaft rotatably
mounted to said chassis in proximity to said swash plate with an
axis of rotation of said drive shaft being substantially parallel
to a top surface of said swash plate; a generally circular cam
joined to said drive shaft at an off center position where said cam
contacts said swash plate; a motor mounted to said chassis for
rotating said drive shaft where a rotation of said drive shaft
rotates said cam in contact with said swash plate to move said
piston in a first direction towards said abdomen and said return
spring and said guide springs move said piston in a second
direction away from said abdomen; control circuitry for controlling
said motor; a dust boot joined to said piston and said bridge for
enclosing said front side and said surface; an outer cover joined
to said chassis for enclosing said chassis; and a belt for securing
said bridge to the user with said piston adjacent to said
abdomen.
19. The apparatus as recited in claim 18, wherein said piston
further comprises a generally concave surface.
20. The apparatus as recited in claim 18, further comprising a
remote unit for controlling said control circuitry.
Description
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0001] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING
APPENDIX
[0002] Not applicable.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0003] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates generally to exercise
equipment. More particularly, the invention relates to a personal,
automatic body fat reducing and muscle building machine.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Various machines and exercise regimens have been developed
to help reduce body fat, in the stomach area in particular. Many of
these machines have largely failed to achieve the necessary results
despite claims to the contrary. Some of the compact machines are
massage belts that can be worn around the waist while others are
large equipment placed in the gym that require lengthy and rigorous
exercise workouts. As evidenced by recent statistics that show that
a huge percentage of the population is either overweight or obese,
many of these prior art machines and regimens are ineffective.
[0006] One prior art weight control system provides an inflatable
waist encircling, relatively wide belt to be worn during exercising
for reducing weight. The continuous contact of the inflated belt
with the body of the wearer in conjunction with the exercise
routine is claimed to result in weight loss. Another prior art
weight control system provides a waist worn elastic band that is
claimed to produce a vacuum effect over the area of the body to be
treated, as well as providing resistance to muscle movements.
Another prior art weight control system provides a buckle that fits
over the abdomen and stomach; said buckle having one or more air
bladders with pressure sensors, an air pump, and a massager. The
air bladders are maintained at a constant pressure as signals from
the pressure sensors activate the air pump to fill or deflate the
air bladders. The effect on the abdomen is claimed to reduce hunger
and thus the craving for food, which results in weight loss. It is
also claimed that hunger between meals is controlled by the
activation of the massager. Another prior art weight control system
provides a belt with a toggle take up mechanism as well as an
adjusting dial mechanism, which permits tensioning of the belt with
various waist diametrical profiles, and a bulging pressure pad,
which presses against the stomach or abdomen. This invention is
claimed to help the wearer lose weight. It is further claimed that
another object of this invention is to provide an abdominal
restrainer that, when worn by a person while eating and a few
minutes thereafter, will allow said person to eat as much of any
kind of food he desires and at any and all times he desires,
therefore never feeling hungry, but still losing weight. In yet
another prior art weight control system, a special belt is claimed
for effecting weight loss in the wearer. It consists of a central
body having a convex side that presses into the wearer's abdomen
and above the navel in such a manner that a strap on belt holds it
in place.
[0007] The aforementioned prior art inventions are ineffective in
their attempts to effect true, sustained and duplicated weight loss
in any individual suffering from highly reduced quality of life
from excessive weight. One major flaw with these designs is that
they behave like blood pressure cuffs squeezing the abdomen by
employing air bladder inflation techniques. This could in fact
choke off blood supply to the midsection if sustained for very long
periods of time. During true and effective weight loss and/or
muscle mass building exercises, the flow of blood to the target
area should not be interrupted but rather enhanced. The burning of
fat and building of muscles require dynamic load mechanical
resistance presented to the muscle group and fat buildup in the
targeted area. In this case, the target area is the stomach. With
the exception of cardiac (heart) muscles, the stomach muscles are
indeed one of the strongest muscle groups in the human body,
contrary to their negative reputation for retaining fat. It is this
muscle group employed by a woman's womb to retain a baby for nine
months before delivery. Essentially, stomach muscles are capable of
sustaining high mechanical load resistance (i.e., force) applied to
them during rigorous weight loss exercises. Unfortunately, the
above-mentioned inventions and others like them do not present
substantial force gradients to the stomach or midsection of a
human, against which to resist.
[0008] Another prior art weight control system consists of an
adjustable gastric banding device driven by an air pump that is
used for contracting a patient's stomach in order to fight obesity.
The gastric band is implanted around the stomach, has a cavity
filled with liquid and connects to a control box via a tube. The
control box as well as a balancing reservoir is implanted
underneath the patient's skin. The box contains an electric pump
and an electronic control unit that communicates via radio
frequency with a monitor carried by the patient, as well as with a
controller carried by the physician. The pump can be remotely
controlled by the controller so as to transfer predetermined
volumes of liquid in a closed circuit from the gastric band to the
reservoir or vice versa, to adjust the diameter of a passage in the
stomach. The monitor receives signals (e.g., alarms or otherwise)
from the control box. This technique it is claimed is used to
control appetite and thus weight loss. However, the complexity and
cost of this invention may outweigh the benefit of weight loss.
There is also the risk of infection that comes with every surgery
performed on the skin during implantation.
[0009] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved
techniques for providing an effective and safe weight control
system that does not interrupt blood flow and provides a suitable
amount of force to the area being treated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and
not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying
drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar
elements and in which:
[0011] FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3 illustrate an exemplary stomach
fat burning and muscle toning device A, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional
view. FIG. 2 is an exploded view, and FIG. 3 is a perspective
view;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary nylon
sleeve bearing employed in a stomach fat burning and muscle toning
device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0013] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary commercially available flange
mount linear bearing of the sleeve or ball type employed in a
stomach fat burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an exemplary guide pin that aids
efficient axial pistonic movements in a stomach fat burning and
muscle toning device, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0015] FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C represent flange plates and threaded
bolt members that may be used to mount some drive components in a
stomach fat burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A is a front perspective
view of a two-bolt flange plate. FIG. 7B is a front perspective
view of a four-bolt flange plate, and FIG. 7C is a side perspective
view of a flange plate;
[0016] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flat piston
that may be employed in a stomach fat burning and muscle toning
device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 9 is a partially cutaway view of an exemplary dust boot
and a tubular fold for a securing pin for use in a stomach fat
burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an embodiment
of the present invention;
[0018] FIGS. 10A and 10B are partial cross-sectional views of an
exemplary return spring and a drive shaft of a stomach fat burning
and muscle toning device in operation, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A shows the return
spring fully extended in a rest position, and FIG. 10B shows the
return spring in a contracted position;
[0019] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary stomach fat burning and
muscle toning machine being worn and operated by a user while in a
standing position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention; and
[0020] FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram for an exemplary stomach fat
burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an embodiment
of the present invention.
[0021] Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are
not necessarily drawn to scale.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0022] To achieve the forgoing and other objects and in accordance
with the purpose of the invention, an apparatus for body fat
reduction and muscle building is presented.
[0023] In one embodiment, an apparatus for body fat reduction and
muscle building is presented. The apparatus includes a bridge
including a generally rectangular shape including a front side, a
back side and at least one central hole extending from the front
side to the back side. A chassis is joined to the back side and
extends away from the back side. A piston including a surface for
applying a load resistance to an abdomen of a user and a stem
centrally located and extending back from the surface is positioned
proximate the front side with the stem extending through the
central hole. A swash plate is joined to a distal end of the stem.
A return spring is in communication with the swash plate. A drive
shaft is mounted to the chassis in proximity to the swash plate. A
generally circular cam is joined to the drive shaft where the cam
contacts the swash plate. A motor is mounted to the chassis for
rotating the drive shaft where a rotation of the drive shaft
rotates the cam in contact with the swash plate to move the piston
in a first direction towards the abdomen and the return spring
moves the piston in a second direction away from the abdomen. A
belt secures the bridge to the user with the piston adjacent to the
abdomen. In another embodiment the piston further includes a
generally concave surface. Another embodiment further includes a
plurality of guide pins joined to the piston for maintaining
alignment of the piston with the bridge. Yet another embodiment
further includes a plurality of return springs coupled to the
plurality of guide pins for assisting in moving the piston in the
second direction. Still other embodiments further include control
circuitry for controlling the motor and a remote unit for
controlling the control circuitry. Another embodiment further
includes at least one battery for operating the apparatus from a DC
source. Still other embodiments include a dust boot joined to the
piston and the bridge for enclosing the front side and the surface
and an outer cover joined to the chassis for enclosing the
chassis.
[0024] In another embodiment an apparatus for body fat reduction
and muscle building is presented. The apparatus includes means for
supporting components of the apparatus, means for applying a load
resistance to an abdomen of a user the means being positioned
proximate a front side of the supporting means, first means for
moving the applying means in a first direction towards the abdomen,
second means for moving the applying means in a second direction
away from the abdomen and means for securing the supporting means
to the user. Another embodiment further includes means for
maintaining alignment of the applying means. Yet another embodiment
further includes means for assisting in moving the applying means
in the second direction. Still other embodiments further include
means for controlling the first means and means for remotely
controlling the means for controlling the first means. Another
embodiment further includes means for operating the apparatus from
a DC source. Yet another embodiment further includes means for
enclosing the front side and the applying means. Still another
embodiment further includes means for enclosing a back side of the
supporting means.
[0025] In another embodiment an apparatus for body fat reduction
and muscle building is presented. The apparatus includes a bridge
including a generally rectangular shape including a front side, a
back side, a central hole extending from the front side to the back
side and a plurality of guide holes extending from the front side
to the back side. A chassis is joined to the back side and extends
away from the back side. A piston including a surface for applying
a load resistance to an abdomen of a user and a stem centrally
located and extending back from the surface is positioned proximate
the front side with the stem extending through the central hole. A
plurality of guide pins is joined to the piston for maintaining
alignment of the piston with the bridge. A plurality of guide
springs is coupled to the plurality of guide pins. A swash plate is
joined to a distal end of the stem. A return spring is in
communication with the swash plate. A drive shaft is rotatably
mounted to the chassis in proximity to the swash plate with an axis
of rotation of the drive shaft being substantially parallel to a
top surface of the swash plate. A generally circular cam is joined
to the drive shaft at an off center position where the cam contacts
the swash plate. A motor is mounted to the chassis for rotating the
drive shaft where a rotation of the drive shaft rotates the cam in
contact with the swash plate to move the piston in a first
direction towards the abdomen and the return spring and the guide
springs move the piston in a second direction away from the
abdomen. Control circuitry is provided for controlling the motor. A
dust boot is joined to the piston and the bridge for enclosing the
front side and the surface. An outer cover is joined to the chassis
for enclosing the chassis. A belt secures the bridge to the user
with the piston adjacent to the abdomen. In another embodiment the
piston further includes a generally concave surface. Still another
embodiment further includes a remote unit for controlling the
control circuitry.
[0026] Other features, advantages, and object of the present
invention will become more apparent and be more readily understood
from the following detailed description, which should be read in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0027] The present invention is best understood by reference to the
detailed figures and description set forth herein.
[0028] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with
reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will
readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with
respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the
invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it
should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light
of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity
of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of
the particular application, to implement the functionality of any
given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation
choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is,
there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention
that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the
scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as
plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa,
where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily
imply that the two are mutually exclusive.
[0029] The present invention will now be described in detail with
reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying
drawings.
[0030] Preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a
stomach or midsection fat reducing and muscle toning device that
affects weight loss by burning fat in the targeted area by
presenting a high factor load mechanical resistance to said
targeted area. Stomach fat burning and muscle building machines
according to preferred embodiments also do not interfere with blood
circulation in the targeted area during the process of
accomplishing its objectives.
[0031] FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. 3 illustrate an exemplary stomach
fat burning and muscle toning device A, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional
view. FIG. 2 is an exploded view, and FIG. 3 is a perspective view.
In the present embodiment, device A comprises a piston 9 with a
concave front fascia integrally formed with a stem 10 having a
threaded upper edge 10A for accepting a matching tubular edge 11A
of a swash plate 11. The edges of the front face of piston 9 are
tapered outwards so as to prevent injury to the user. The back
surface of piston 9 is convex having flat areas 12 beside stem 10
and at the outer edges thereof. These flat areas 12 serve as seats
for dampers 3 that fit into matching slots 3A on a connecting beam
herein referred to as a bridge 1. Stem 10 of piston 9 passes
through a central hole 2 on bridge 1 such that stem 10 can move
back and forth without touching bridge 1. A high-tension return
spring 18 sits on a recess 2A on bridge 1 and next to central hole
2 such that return spring 18 applies tension on the inner radial
edge of swash plate 11. Nylon sleeve or axial roller bearings 5 are
located in matching snugly fitting holes on bridge 1 and are
prevented from lateral movements by radial securing washers 6 held
rigidly in place by screws 7. Efficient axial movements and
accurate trajectory of piston 9 is effected by alignment members
herein referred to as guide pins 8. In alternate embodiments, the
trajectory of the piston may be affected by alternate means such
as, but not limited to a track on which the piston slides, etc. In
the present embodiment, lower threaded edges of guide pins 8 screw
rigidly into matching threaded holes on the convex backside of
piston 9 such that guide pins 8 extend upwardly, well past the
upper flat surface of bridge 1. The concave lower surface of bridge
1 approximates the convex shape of the back surface of piston 9.
Guide pins 8, which are preferably made of steel, have an outer
nylon shell 13 whose outer diameter presents close tolerances with
the inner diameter of bearings 5 for smooth operation. In alternate
embodiments the guide pins may be made of various different
materials such as, but not limited to, other types of metal, and
also may have shells made of different materials such as, but not
limited to, other types of plastic. Other alternate embodiments may
not employ shells on the guide pins and may instead use a lubricant
to aid in smooth operation between the guide pins and the bearings
or may use different types of bearings that do not require a
sleeve. In the present embodiment, an edge flange 14 on the upper
end of guide pins 8 is provided with a hole for the purpose of
coupling return springs 15 to tension posts 16, which are also
provided with holes for springs 15 and are rigidly held in place to
the floor of a chassis 27 by means of screws or bolts 17.
[0032] In the present embodiment, slots 3A between the lower
surface of bridge 1 and the inner surface of piston 9 are filled
with dampers 3 made of a damping material such as, but not limited
to, foam or rubber; however, in some embodiments dampers may not be
included. Furthermore, in some embodiments all or part of the gap
between the lower surface of bridge 1 and the inner surface of
piston 9 may be filled with a damping material such as, but not
limited to, foam or rubber bonded to one of said surfaces rather
than or in addition to having dampers in slots. In the present
embodiment, a dust boot 19 is secured to piston 9 with a suitable
bonding agent such as, but not limited to, glue, epoxy, rubber
cement, etc., in such a manner that securing pins 20 inserted into
matching holes on boot 19 are placed slideably into matching holes
on piston 9, thereby enabling the ends of boot 19 to move freely
during excursions of piston 9. Holes 4 may be used to locate
chassis mounting screws 49. Mounting screws 49 attach the ends of
boot 19 and belt members 51 to bridge 1 in such a manner that the
combined thickness of boot 19 and belt members 51 aligns with the
side edges of bridge 1. In the present embodiment, interchangeable
belt members 53 and 54 are coupled to non-interchangeable belt
members 51 by means of buttons 52. However, the non-interchangeable
belt members may be coupled to the interchangeable belt members
using various different means in alternate embodiments including,
but not limited to, buckles, snaps, Velcro, etc. In the present
embodiment, interchangeable belt members 53 and 54 are provided
with a Velcro system 55 that enables a wide range of differently
sized individuals to use the system in a conventional manner.
[0033] In the present embodiment, a drive shaft 22 is connected to
roller bearings 24A at either end of said shaft 22. Roller bearings
24A are housed inside bearing housings 24 and mounted laterally on
chassis 27 by means of integral mounting flanges 25, threaded bolts
27A and nuts 26. Bolts 27A may be welded to chassis 27 or to
separate flanges, as shown by way of example in FIGS. 7, 7A and 7B.
Individual bolts may also be employed to hold bearing housings 24
in place. Shaft 22 terminates near the edge of the left bearing and
extends past the right bearing, inside their respective housings
24, such that the extending length of shaft 22 on the right side
provides spacing for a toothed wheel 28, which is rigidly held to
shaft 22 by means of a locking screw 29. In alternate embodiments,
different means may be used to attach the toothed wheel to the
drive shaft; for example, without limitation, in one embodiment the
wheel may be welded to the drive shaft. In the present embodiment,
additional rigidity of toothed wheel 28 is effected by means of
matching flat sides on both ends 22A of shaft 22 and a hole 28A in
wheel 28, as shown by way of example in FIG. 2.
[0034] A drive motor 31 is rigidly mounted on chassis 27 by means
of a hold down clamp 32 and screws or bolts 33. Integrally coupled
to the shaft of motor 31 is a drive gear 30, which meshes with
wheel 28 in such a manner as to smoothly drive shaft 22 in
operation. Coupled to shaft 22 is a circular cam 21, which is
rigidly coupled to shaft 22 by means of locking screws 23 at
tubular edge-ears of said cam 21. However, alternate means may be
used to attach cam 21 to shaft 22 such as, but not limited to,
welding or adhesive. Shaft 22 passes through cam 21 at an off
center position such that regardless of the distance of shaft 22
from swash plate 11, cam 21 remains in constant contact with swash
plate 11. This action allows for smooth operation and is made
possible by the counteracting action of return springs 15 and 18.
When cam 21 moves swash plate 11 to compress main return spring 18,
the excursion of piston 9 and guide pins 8 causes auxiliary return
springs 15 to extend fully when shaft 22 is farthest from swash
plate 11, as illustrated by way of example in FIG. 10B. When piston
9 and guide pins 8 have returned to their rest position, which
means that shaft 22 is now at its closest position to swash plate
11, main spring 18 is fully extended and auxiliary return springs
15 are fully compressed, as illustrated by way of example in FIG.
10A.
[0035] In the present embodiment, battery compartments 43 and a
power boosting circuit board 44 are mounted on one side and an
AC/motor control board and circuit 34 are mounted on the opposite
side next to motor 31. However, these components may be mounted in
various different locations in alternate embodiments. Motor 31
preferably may use AC and DC voltages; however, in alternate
embodiments the motor may use only AC or DC voltage. In the present
embodiment, an AC cord 40 and a plug 38 transmits power to circuit
34 via a socket 36, which in turn supplies power to motor 31. A
second socket 37 is also connected to circuit board 34 and accepts
a plug 39, which is linked by a cable 41 to a hand held remote
control 42, which may be provided with controls such as, but not
limited to, an on/off switch, and high, medium and low motor speed
switches. Alternate embodiments may be implemented without remote
controls. In these embodiments the device may be operated by
controls such as, but not limited to, buttons or dials on the
device itself In the present embodiment, a battery power
boosting/inverting circuit 44 as well as a voltage selector switch
46 with a housing 45 mounted on an outer cover 47 are connected to
circuit board 34 via wire cables (not shown). Alternate embodiments
may be implemented that are powered only by batteries or only by a
power cord plugged into an electrical outlet rather than both. In
the present embodiment, studs 50 are included in the present
embodiment for mounting a chassis reinforcing plate 50A to chassis
27 using screws 50B, as shown by way of example in FIG. 2. Heat
from motor 31 and electronic circuit board 34 is vented through
perforations 35.
[0036] Referring now to FIG. 2 this exploded view of the present
embodiment shows outer cover 47 having perforations 35 that align
with matching perforations 35 on chassis 27. Screws 48 on outer
cover 47 attach outer cover 47 to chassis 27. Gear 30 of motor 31
engages toothed wheel 28, which also serves as a reduction gear and
is provided with through hole 28A with one flat side to defeat
slippage on drive shaft 22. Wheel 28 is also provided with an end
stem having a threaded hole 29A for accepting locking screw 29,
which engages a flat end surface 22A and a threaded matching hole
29B on drive shaft 22. However, embodiments in which the toothed
wheel is attached to the drive shaft using means other than a
locking screw may not comprise these holes.
[0037] In the present embodiment, bearing housings 24 are provided
with integral mounting flanges 25 for mounting with threaded bolts
27A and nuts 26. Roller ball bearings 24A fit onto drive shaft 22
and are pressed into housings 24. In the present embodiment, cotter
pins 22C fit into holes 22B on shaft 22 and act as stops to
generally prevent bearings 24A from walking out of housings 24. In
alternate embodiments different means may be used to generally
prevent the bearings from walking out of the housings such as, but
not limited to, welded stops on the shaft, screws, bolts, etc. In
the present embodiment, tension posts 16 are mounted to the floor
of chassis 27 with threaded bolts 27A and nuts 17. Coupling holes
16A engage one end of the hooks of return springs 15, the opposite
hooks of which engage holes 8C of end flanges 8D of guide pins 8,
which are preferably provided with nylon outer shells 13 and
threaded lower edges 8B, which are rigidly screwed into threaded
holes 8A on piston 9. Nylon bearings 5 are pressed tightly into
matching holes 5A on bridge 1 and are generally prevented from
lateral movements by radial securing washers 6, which are held in
place by screws 7. In operation, cam 21 remains in continuous
contact with swash plate 11, which is provided with threaded lower
tubular edge 11A for coupling to the threaded upper edge of stem 10
of piston 9. Main return spring 18 sits in recess 2A and applies
tension to swash plate 11 such that piston stem 10 moves back and
forth within central hole 2 without touching bridge 1. In the
present embodiment, dampers 3 fit tightly into matching slots 3A on
bridge 1 and serve as the rest position of piston 9 during
excursions. Dust boot 19 is provided with mounting holes 4A that
align with holes 4 on bridge 1 and are held in place with screws
(not shown). Aligning pins 20 fit tightly into tubular holes 20A on
boot 19 and are in turn then forced into tight fitting holes 20B on
piston 9, such that the outer edge areas of boot 19 are left to
move freely while the inner arched area is bonded to the matching
arched area of piston 9. Boot 19 is also provided with mounting
holes 49A that align with holes 1A on the sides of bridge 1 as well
as holes MA on non-interchangeable belt members 51, which are
firmly held in place with screws 49.
[0038] In the present embodiment, belts 51, 53 and 54 are
preferably made of woven cloth fibers, plastics or leather;
however, belts in alternate embodiments may be made of different
materials. Boot 19 is preferably made of a stretch fabric material
such as, but not limited to, Lycra or a highly yieldable rubber
material; however, the boot in alternate embodiments may be made of
various different materials such as, but not limited to, woven
cloth or plastic. Piston 9 and bridge 1 are preferably made of high
strength aluminum or rigid plastics such as ABS; however, in
alternate embodiments these elements may be made of different
materials such as, but not limited to, other metals, other rigid
plastics, composites, etc. Swash plate 11, cam 21 and drive shaft
22 are preferably made of hardened and ground polished steel in the
manner conventionally employed in internal combustion engines;
however, alternate materials may be suitable. Bearing housings 24
are preferably made of cast aluminum or plastics; however, the
bearing housings in alternate embodiments may be made of various
other materials such as, but not limited to, different types of
metal. Tension posts 16 are preferably made of steel or high
strength aluminum, although other materials may be suitable in
alternate embodiments. Plastics or metals may be used for gear 30
and wheel 28 in the conventional manner known to those skilled in
the art. Chassis 27 may be made of a rigid material such as, but
not limited to, stamped steel or cast aluminum while outer cover 47
is preferably made of a plastic. However, in alternate embodiments,
the chassis may be made of different rigid materials such as, but
not limited to, other types of metal or rigid plastic and the outer
cover may be made of various different materials including, but not
limited to, various metals, heavy cloths, rubber, etc. Motor 31 is
preferably a high output, high torque type of motor to overcome
counter resistance from the stomach muscles of certain users.
However, various different types of motors may be used in alternate
embodiments.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, the perspective view of the present
embodiment shows outer cover 47, drive piston 9 covered by boot 19
and non-interchangeable belt members 51 connected to
interchangeable belt members 53 and 54 by buttons 52.
Interchangeable belt members 53 and 54 are provided with Velcro
system 55. Velcro system 55 enables belt members 53 and 54 to be
adjustably attached to a user. However, those skilled in the art,
in light of the present teachings, will readily recognize that a
multiplicity of suitable systems may be used to adjustably attach
the belt members to a user in alternate embodiments such as, but
not limited to, buckles, snaps, buttons, etc.
[0040] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary nylon
sleeve bearing 5 employed in a stomach fat burning and muscle
toning device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. In the present embodiment, nylon sleeve bearing 5
comprises burrs 5X at each end. In alternate embodiments, nylon
sleeve bearings may be employed that do not comprise burred edges.
And in yet other alternate embodiments, nylon sleeve bearings 5 may
be replaced with different types of bearings.
[0041] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary commercially available flange
mount linear bearing 5A of the sleeve or ball type employed in a
stomach fat burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. In the present example, a
flange 6A of bearing 5A is provided with mounting holes 7A.
Commercially available flange mount linear bearings are many and
varied; types include, without limitation, sleeve, ball, no lube
linear plain, replaceable insert, pillow block, ceramic coated,
closed or open, Frelon lined, Rulon lined, PTFE lined, fixed, and
self aligning types. Any of these flange mount linear bearings may
be employed in preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0042] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an exemplary guide pin 8 that
aids efficient axial pistonic movements in a stomach fat burning
and muscle toning device, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. FIG. 6A is an exploded cross-sectional view, and
FIG. 6B is an exploded perspective view of the members of guide pin
8. In the present embodiment, guide pin 8 comprises a threaded
lower edge 8B, an upper edge flange 8D having a coupling hole 8C
for attaching a return spring, and a threaded hole 8E for accepting
a securing screw 13C for an outer nylon shell 13. Outer shell 13 is
also provided with at least one hole 13D for inserting screw 13C.
There is also a racetrack type slot 18B for accepting edge flange
8D of guide pin 8. Guide pins in alternate embodiments may have
various different designs.
[0043] FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C represent flange plates 27C and threaded
bolt members 27A that may be used to mount some drive components in
a stomach fat burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A is a front
perspective view of a two-bolt flange plate 27C. FIG. 7B is a front
perspective view of a four-bolt flange plate 27C, and FIG. 7C is a
side perspective view of a flange plate 27C. Bolt members 27A may
be pre-threaded and then welded onto flange plates 27C or may be
integrally cast and then threaded. These configurations present
more rigid platforms for mounting bearing housings, such as, but
not limited to bearing housings 24 shown by way of example in FIGS.
1 and 2, than employing single bolts; however, in some embodiments
single bolts may be used. Flange plates 27C and threaded bolt
members 27A may be made of various materials including, but not
limited to, steel, aluminum or plastic.
[0044] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary flat piston
89 that may be employed in a stomach fat burning and muscle toning
device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Unlike arched piston 9 shown by way of example in FIGS. 1 and 2,
piston 89 in the present embodiment comprises a flat frontal
profile, which increases the overall thickness of piston 89 over a
curved piston. However, piston 89 is easier to manufacture than a
piston with a curvature. As with the piston design having a
curvature, a stem 10 is also integral to piston 89. In order to
reduce weight without sacrificing strength, high strength aluminum
is the material of choice, though other materials may be employed
such as, but not limited to, other metals or rigid plastics. Holes
89A are integrally cast or machined into piston 89 as a means to
further reduce weight without sacrificing strength.
[0045] FIG. 9 is a partially cutaway view of an exemplary dust boot
19 and a tubular fold 20A for a securing pin 20 for use in a
stomach fat burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment,
securing pin 20 is inserted into tubular fold 20A of dust boot 19
in order to secure dust boot 19 to a piston, for example, without
limitation, pistons 9 and 89 shown by way of example in FIGS. 1 and
8, respectively.
[0046] FIGS. 10A and 10B are partial cross-sectional views of an
exemplary return spring 18 and a drive shaft 22 of a stomach fat
burning and muscle toning device in operation, in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A shows return
spring 18 fully extended in a rest position, and FIG. 10B shows
return spring 18 contracted. In the present embodiment, a bridge 1
supports main return spring 18, which applies tension on a swash
plate 11. Drive shaft 22 is coupled to a cam 21, which is rotating
in a clockwise direction and in continuous contact with swash plate
11 for smoothness. Referring to FIG. 10A, when drive shaft 22 is in
a position closest to swash plate 11, cam 21 is exerting minimal
pressure on swash plate 11 and return spring 18 is fully extended,
and, referring to FIG. 10B, when drive shaft 22 is in a position
farthest from swash plate 11, cam 21 is exerting maximum pressure
on swash plate 11 and return spring 18 is contracted. In the
present embodiment, the excursion movements of swash plate 11 and
piston 9, as shown by way of example in FIGS. 1 and 2, are
sinusoidal.
[0047] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary stomach fat burning and
muscle toning device A being worn and operated by a user F while in
a standing position, in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. However, device A may be used in other positions
such as, but not limited to, lying down on one's back or seated on
a chair. In typical use of the present embodiment, user F wraps
interchangeable belt members 53 and 54 around his midsection with
the machine portion of device A on his stomach. A Velcro system on
interchangeable belt members 53 and 54 enables user F to adjust the
tightness of belt members 53 and 54. The user then plugs device A
into a wall power outlet using an AC cord 40. Alternate embodiments
may be implemented that are battery powered rather than plugged
into a power outlet. In the present embodiment, a cable 41 connects
a hand held remote control 42 to device A. Remote control 42 is
used to select motor speed and torque settings for example, without
limitation, high, medium and low, which affect the rate of toggle
of the drive piston in device A. In alternate embodiments, the
remote control may use wireless technology such as, but not limited
to, infrared rays, to transmit signals to the device rather than
being wired to device A, and other alternate embodiments may not
include a remote control. In the present embodiment, while device A
is on, the piston moves toward and then away from the stomach of
user F.
[0048] FIG. 12 is a circuit diagram for an exemplary stomach fat
burning and muscle toning device, in accordance with an embodiment
of the present invention. This simple control circuit can be
modified by someone skilled in the art of motor control
electrical/electronic circuitry without deviating from the spirit
and creative intensions employed here. In the present embodiment,
the circuit comprises an AC adapter 121, which supplies a desired
voltage to a battery charging circuit 123, which in turn charges a
battery 125. Battery power is supplied to a DC-AC converter 127,
which in turn outputs an AC voltage to a transformer 129. For
example, without limitation, two 9-volt batteries may be used to
supply an 18-volt input to transformer 129 to obtain a stepped up
25-volt output. When a switch SW1 is closed, an AC-DC converter 131
changes the AC voltage from transformer 129 back to DC voltage.
After smoothing with a filter 133, a variable voltage regulator 135
with a range of between 10V and 50V then supplies power
simultaneously to an 18-volt drive motor 31 via a standard
potentiometer 137 driven by a second motor 31A in a circuit 139, as
well as to a constant voltage regulator 141 operating at 12 volts.
Regulator 141 outputs to a learning control decoder 143, which is
connected to motor 31A via an output capacitor C3 and an overload
protection circuit 145. A second output capacitor C2 supplies power
to motor 31 via another overload protection circuit 147. In the
present embodiment, a light emitting diode (LED) indicates motor
operation. A remote control 149 coupled to decoder 143 permits easy
manipulation of the speed of motor 31, aided by potentiometer
circuit 139. Remote control 149 can be an infrared controller or
may be directly wired to decoder 143. Motor 31 may also be directly
driven by an AC or DC voltage in which case AC voltage is stepped
down to the exact desired value using an adapter, while employed
batteries may or may not be rechargeable.
[0049] Having fully described at least one embodiment of the
present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods of
providing a fat reducing and muscle building machine according to
the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
The invention has been described above by way of illustration, and
the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the
invention to the particular forms disclosed. For example, the
particular implementation of the device may vary depending upon the
particular use of the device. The devices described in the
foregoing were directed to implementations for use on users'
stomachs; however, similar techniques are to provide smaller
devices for use on other parts of the body such as, but not limited
to, arms and legs. Implementations of the present invention for use
on parts of the body other than the stomach are contemplated as
within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to
cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling
within the spirit and scope of the following claims.
* * * * *