U.S. patent application number 13/388437 was filed with the patent office on 2012-05-31 for translatory motion strength training system and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to LAUNCHPOINT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.. Invention is credited to Josiah Edelen Verkaik.
Application Number | 20120135842 13/388437 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43544890 |
Filed Date | 2012-05-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120135842 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Verkaik; Josiah Edelen |
May 31, 2012 |
TRANSLATORY MOTION STRENGTH TRAINING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A strength training apparatus adapted for conducting translatory
motion against a counteracting resistance. The apparatus includes
strength training devices wherein a carriage and corresponding
guide means are provided for translating mass under the effect of
gravity along a rectilinear or curvilinear path. Certain
embodiments are configured for utilizing a selectable weight stack,
loaded free weights or the user's body weight as a primary
resistance that is independent of velocity. The apparatus enhances
the results of strength training and exercise equipment for
providing velocity-dependent resistance in addition to "static"
resistance provided by the apparatus at constant velocity. The
apparatus includes velocity-dependent resistance provided by eddy
current resistance caused by the interaction of an electrically
conductive structure encountering relative motion with a magnetic
field. The electrically conductive structure is secured to a frame
and magnetic field is provided by one or more permanent magnets
secured to the carriage.
Inventors: |
Verkaik; Josiah Edelen;
(Lompoc, CA) |
Assignee: |
LAUNCHPOINT TECHNOLOGIES,
INC.
Goleta
CA
|
Family ID: |
43544890 |
Appl. No.: |
13/388437 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2010 |
PCT Filed: |
August 2, 2010 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2010/044080 |
371 Date: |
February 1, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61230897 |
Aug 3, 2009 |
|
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61234030 |
Aug 14, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/5 ;
482/92 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/09 20130101;
A63B 21/0051 20130101; A63B 23/0405 20130101; A63B 21/068 20130101;
A63B 2220/13 20130101; A63B 21/072 20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101;
A63B 21/0628 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/5 ;
482/92 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/005 20060101
A63B021/005; A63B 21/00 20060101 A63B021/00 |
Claims
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39. A translatory motion strength training device for providing
resistance over a range of motion comprising: a support frame; a
carriage guide means supported on said support frame for directing
a load-bearing carriage over a range of translatory motion; a
carriage means supported within said support frame and directed by
said carriage guide means for bearing a resistive load over a range
of motion; a velocity-dependent resistance means coupled between
said carriage means and said support frame for providing a
substantially velocity-dependent resistance over at least a portion
of the range of motion provided by said carriage guide means; and
wherein said velocity-dependent resistance means utilizes the
interaction of a magnetic field encountering relative translatory
motion with respect to an electrically conductive structure.
40. A translatory motion strength training device for providing
resistance over a range of motion comprising: a support frame; a
carriage guide means supported on said support frame for directing
a load-bearing carriage over a range of translatory motion; a
carriage means supported within said support frame and directed by
said carriage guide means for bearing a resistive load over a range
of motion; a velocity-dependent resistance means coupled between
said carriage means and said support frame for providing a
substantially velocity-dependent resistance over at least a portion
of the range of motion provided by said carriage guide means, said
velocity-dependent resistance means utilizing the interaction of a
magnetic field encountering relative translatory motion with
respect to an electrically conductive structure; and wherein said
electrically conductive structure is secured to said frame and said
magnetic field is provided by one or more permanent magnets secured
to said carriage means.
41. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 40, wherein permanent magnets are arranged in an array to
provide a magnetic field of alternating polarity for
electro-magnetic interaction with said electrically conductive
structure.
42. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 40, wherein ferromagnetic material is provided near said one
or more permanent magnets of said carriage means, and said
ferromagnetic material at least partially conducts the magnetic
flux of said permanent magnets.
43. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 40, wherein said velocity-dependent resistance means is
adapted to provide variable resistance with respect to position of
said carriage means along the range of motion in addition to the
velocity of said carriage means.
44. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 43, wherein said conductive structure is configured to vary
in proximity to said one or more permanent magnets over the range
of motion of said carriage means.
45. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 43, wherein said electrically conductive structure includes a
variable cross section and said velocity-dependent resistance is
varied by eddy-current interaction of said variable cross-section
of said electrically conductive structure in proximity of said
permanent magnets over part of the range of motion of said carriage
means.
46. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 40, further including an adjustable velocity-independent
resistance means coupled to said carriage means for providing a
resistance that is substantially independent of velocity.
47. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 46, wherein said adjustable velocity-independent resistance
means is provided by a mass coupled to said carriage means acting
against gravitational forces.
48. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 47 wherein said carriage guide means consists of inclined
bars secured to said frame, wherein said carriage means is guided
by said inclined bars and is adapted for mechanical coupling to a
selectable weight stack and said velocity-independent resistance is
provided by mechanical coupling of said carriage means to a
selectable weight stack.
49. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 48, wherein said inclined bars are electrically conductive
and wherein said velocity dependent resistance is generated by the
relative motion of one or more permanent magnets arranged to wrap
at least partially around said inclined bars of said carriage guide
means.
50. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 49, wherein one or more additional permanent magnets are
provided in one or more modular resistance blocks directed by said
inclined bars, said modular resistance blocks are removably
connectable to said carriage means, and each of said modular
resistance blocks include an array of magnetic segments producing a
variable magnetic field for generating eddy-currents within said
inclined bars when encountering relative motion.
51. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 46, wherein said carriage means further includes a loading
bar where said adjustable velocity-independent resistance means is
embodied as free weights carried on said loading bar of said
carriage means.
52. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 46, wherein said frame includes two or more spaced apart
linear shafts supported along an incline, and said carriage means
further includes linear bearing means adapted for interfacing with
said linear shafts and being guided along said incline by said
linear shafts.
53. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 52, wherein said carriage means is structurally coupled to
parallel spaced-apart counter-opposing magnetic block assemblies,
said carriage means includes an array of block magnets arranged
with alternating polarity with respect to direction of travel, said
magnetic block assemblies being spaced apart for providing a slot
associated with a high strength alternating magnetic field, and
said electrically conductive structure supported by said frame is a
plate supported along an incline within at least a portion of said
slot between said magnetic block assemblies for facilitating eddy
current resistance when said carriage means encounters relative
motion with respect to said conductive plate.
54. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 53, wherein said frame further includes a pivoting structure
for supporting said electrically conductive plate, said pivoting
structure includes a pivoting end and a locking end where said
locking means can be disengaged so as to allow said conductive
plate to be pivoted away from said magnetic blocks of said carriage
means for the purposes of adjusting the velocity-dependent
resistance acting against said carriage means over at least part of
the range of motion.
55. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 46, wherein said frame includes a vertical support section
and one or more linear guide rails, said vertical support section
adapted for supporting said one or more linear guide rails on an
adjustable incline.
56. The translatory motion strength training device according to
claim 46, wherein said carriage means is a user support platform
supported on said frame along an adjustable incline and said
velocity-independent resistance means is a user's weight supported
on said user support platform acting against gravity.
57. A method of providing resistance for conducting a strength
training exercise over a range of translatory motion wherein
substantially velocity-dependent resistance is generated by eddy
current interaction of a magnetic field subjected to translatory
motion with respect to an electrically conductive structure.
58. The method of providing resistance for conducting a strength
training exercise according to claim 57, wherein resistance that is
substantially independent of velocity is combined with the
resistance that is substantially independent of velocity.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates, generally, to strength
training apparatus adapted for conducting translatory motion
against a counteracting resistance, and in particular, embodiments
to strength training devices wherein a carriage and corresponding
guide means are provided for translating mass under the effect of
gravity along a rectilinear or curvilinear path. Certain
embodiments are configured for utilizing a selectable weight stack,
loaded free weights or the user's body weight as a primary
resistance that is independent of velocity. The invention is
directed to enhancing the results of strength training and exercise
equipment for providing velocity-dependent resistance in addition
to the primary "static" resistance provided by the apparatus by
creating a paced resistance in addition to the primary "static"
resistance provided by the apparatus at constant velocity.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0002] A translatory motion strength training machine refers to a
strength training machine that includes a guide or pivoting means
for the translatory displacement of a carriage under counter-acting
resistance. Although translatory motion provided by strength
training devices is generally rectilinear motion along a straight
path, translatory motion may also be curvilinear motion along a
curved path as well rectilinear motion along a straight path.
Examples of how translatory motion may be affected include, but are
not limited to, a carriage directed by a guide rail or by a linkage
assembly adapted pivot along a curved path.
[0003] Translatory Strength training systems incorporating
rectilinear or curvilinear displacement of a structure providing a
resistance typically fit into four categories: [0004] (I)
Selectable weight stack machines wherein a cable and pulleys are
utilized to displace a stack of weights; [0005] (II) Manual--plate
loading machines wherein free weights (i.e., plates) are loaded
onto bars and wherein a rail is utilized to guide linear movements
(i.e., leg press, smith machine, and home gyms configured for plate
loading); [0006] (III) Gravity resist training machines utilizing a
user support platform wherein the incline is adapted to provide
adjustable resistance (i.e., "total gym"); and [0007] (IV)
Translatory motion strength training machines that provide a
primary resistance other than by a mass counteracting the effect of
gravity. This includes machines utilizing elastic bands, bows,
springs, and torsion elements.
[0008] Conventional translatory motion strength training machines
do not provide a means of governing the speed of repetition for
encouraging a repetition to be conducted slowly and without relying
on inertia or momentum (often associated with cheating through the
exercise movements). The present invention seeks to enhance the
capability of translatory strength training systems to provide a
velocity-dependent resistance in addition to the nominal resistance
selected from a weight stack or by other means.
[0009] Such velocity-dependent resistance is preferably provided by
a linear eddy current breaking mechanism whereby an element
providing a magnetic field encounters relative motion with respect
to a closely spaced, electrically conductive structure. Preferably,
the eddy current resistance is adjustable wherein the
velocity-dependent resistance could be adapted for an optimized
strength training regime as directed by the users' preference.
While the adjustable velocity-dependent resistance can be provided
for high-performance fitness equipment, it is also a goal of the
present invention to provide an economical means for implementation
of such an apparatus adapted for home use.
[0010] Some prior art aerobic fitness equipment utilizes magnetic
eddy current resistance such as stationary bikes, rowing machines,
or machines that simulate swimming strokes. There are several
patent disclosures in this regard. In these cases the eddy current
brake resistance is provided on a member encountering rotational
motion and is apparatus' sole resistance means for providing
continued resistance when the machine is in motion. It is not the
case with these systems that the magnetic eddy current resistance
is augmented with a velocity-independent resistance means such as
in the case of displacing a stack of weights. The aim of present
invention is the novel adaptation of magnetic resistance technology
to strength training machines undergoing translatory motion.
[0011] As with all conventional strength training machines the
weight stack or user support platform moves along a rectilinear
path and is supported by a rail or poles. Over time, it will become
apparent that it is more advantageous to provide eddy current
resistance that works over a rectilinear or curvilinear path for
this particular type of machine.
[0012] Most existing translatory motion strength training machines
provide a single resistance curve that cannot be altered. Some,
however, enable the resistance curve to be varied; however the
choice of resistance curves is significantly limited. As a result,
the muscular growth of the users of such devices is limited. It
would be desirable therefore, to develop an exercise device which
addresses and overcomes the problems of the present devices, and
provides not only a variable resistance but also a plurality of
resistance curves which may be selectively chosen and easily
adjusted by the user to meet his specific needs. It is further an
object of the present invention to also provide an alternative
means of achieving an adjustable variable resistance curve.
[0013] Correspondingly, the invention is directed toward providing
a means to attain either a fixed variable resistance or an
adjustable variable resistance curve over the range of movement by
the user according to preferred embodiments of a velocity-dependent
resistance means of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] While numerous embodiments and configurations are disclosed,
the present invention relates generally, to translatory motion
strength training machines wherein an exercise is conducted over a
range of motion against a pre-selected resistance that is
substantially independent of velocity. In numerous embodiments, a
carriage is provided for translating the primary resistance along a
translator path wherein the carriage assembly also encounters a
secondary resistance that is substantially dependent on
velocity.
[0015] In the most general terms the invention is a translatory
motion strength training device for providing resistance over a
range of motion includes; a support frame; a carriage guide means
supported on said support frame for directing a load-bearing
carriage over a range of motion; a carriage means supported within
said support frame and directed by said carriage guide means for
bearing a load over a translatory range of motion; an adjustable
velocity-independent resistance means coupled to said carriage
means for providing a resistance that is substantially independent
of velocity; and an velocity-dependent resistance means also
coupled to said carriage means for providing a substantially
velocity-dependent resistance over at least a portion of the range
of motion provided by said carriage guide means, wherein said
selectable position-dependent resistance means and
velocity-dependent resistance means can be exhibited in
combination.
[0016] According to the invention, the preferred method of
providing a velocity-dependent resistance is to utilize eddy
current reaction of a magnetic structure and a conductive
structure. An eddy current is an electrical phenomenon that is
caused when a conductor is exposed to a changing magnetic field due
to relative motion of the field source and conductor; or due to
variations of the field with time. This can cause a circulating
flow of electrons, or a current, within the body of the conductor.
These circulating eddies of current create induced magnetic fields
that oppose the change of the original magnetic field due to Lenz's
law, which states, "An induced current is always in such a
direction as to oppose the motion or change causing it". This
results in a repulsive or drag forces between the conductor and the
magnet. The stronger the applied magnetic field, or the greater the
electrical conductivity of the conductor, or the faster the field
that the conductor is exposed to changes, the greater the currents
that are developed and the greater the opposing field.
[0017] Beyond the most general principals, the invention includes
many novel features pertaining to specific embodiments. Perceived
features and benefits of the present invention are that the novel
translatory motion strength training system: [0018] Incorporates a
proprietary technology and will be marketed as such; [0019]
Facilitates a method of training which is supported by prior
research (i.e. super-slow strength training); [0020] Promotes a
more intense and dynamic workout; [0021] Prevent cheating--using
momentum rather than focusing on the targeted muscle group in a
controlled repetition; [0022] Facilitates weight stacks of reduced
size and mass due to the fact that lesser weight can be repeatedly
lifted without utilizing momentum; [0023] Provides for a variable
virtual load as the user is fatigued and the velocity of their
recitations slows down; [0024] Allows a variable resistance curve
over the range of motion; [0025] Permits an adjustable variable
resistance curve where the user can select from more than one
variable resistance curve; [0026] Allows the velocity-dependent
resistance to be easily switched on or off if desired by the user;
and [0027] Provides added benefit for athletes training for
explosiveness wherein the use of momentum would be limited when
conducting repetitions of the exercise only at high velocity.
[0028] Other advantages and benefits may be possible, and it is not
necessary to achieve all or any of these benefits or advantages in
order to practice the invention as claimed. Therefore, nothing in
the aforementioned description of the possible or exemplary
advantages and benefits can or should be regarded as limiting
factors.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The novel features of the present invention, which are
considered as characteristic for the invention, are set forth with
particularity in the appended claims. The invention itself,
however, both as to organization and methods of operation, together
with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood
by reference to the following description, taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings in which:
[0030] FIG. 1 is perspective view of the translatory motion
strength training system according to a first preferred embodiment
of the present invention wherein position dependent resistance is
provided by displacing a selectable weight stack.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the first preferred
embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a sectional front elevation view of the first
preferred embodiment along the section line of FIG. 2.
[0033] FIG. 4 is a sectional elevation view of the first preferred
embodiment along the section line of FIG. 3.
[0034] FIG. 5 is sectional front elevation view of an alternative
configured resistance of reduced velocity-dependent resistance as
compared to the configuration of the first preferred embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1-4.
[0035] FIG. 6 is sectional front elevation view of an alternative
configuration of reduced velocity-dependent resistance as compared
to the configurations of the first preferred embodiment shown in
FIGS. 1-5.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a perspective view translatory motion strength
machine according to a second preferred embodiment of the present
invention wherein position-dependent resistance is provided by
displacing free weights loaded onto a carriage.
[0037] FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the second preferred
embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 9 is a back elevation view of the second preferred
embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 10 is a sectional side elevation view of the second
preferred embodiment along the section line of FIG. 9.
[0040] FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view of the magnetic block
assembly and conductor structure according to the second preferred
embodiment taken along the section line of FIG. 10.
[0041] FIGS. 12A-D include perspective, top, front and side views,
respectively, of the conductive structure according to the second
preferred embodiment.
[0042] FIGS. 13A-B are front and perspective views respectively of
an alternative conductive structure according to the second
preferred embodiment of a translatory motion strength training
apparatus wherein position-dependent resistance is provided by
displacing free weights loaded onto a carriage directed on an
incline.
[0043] FIGS. 14A-D are side, front, side sectional, and front
sectional views of a magnetic block assembly according to the
second preferred embodiment.
[0044] FIGS. 15A-C are side sectional view of showing the carriage
assembly and magnetic block at various positions with respect to
conductor structure along the range of motion according to the
second preferred embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the second preferred
embodiment wherein the conductor structure is disengaged with
respect to the magnetic blocks of the carriage assembly and is in a
pivoted position for selection of a preferred conductive plate
associated with a pre-determined, velocity-dependent resistance
that also varies with position.
[0046] FIG. 17 is a side elevation view of the configuration shown
in FIG. 16 wherein the conductor structure is shown in a pivoted
disengaged position.
[0047] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the collapsed configuration
of a third preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein
the translatory motion strength training machine is foldable and
relies on the users' body weight as directed along an adjustable
incline for providing a resistance.
[0048] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the third preferred
embodiment in a deployed configuration.
[0049] FIG. 20 is a side elevation view of the third preferred
embodiment in the deployed configuration.
[0050] FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the user support carriage
according to the third preferred embodiment taken along the section
line of FIG. 20.
[0051] FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of the third preferred
embodiment in the deployed configuration.
[0052] FIG. 23 is a sectional side elevation view of the third
preferred embodiment taken along the section line of FIG. 22.
[0053] FIG. 24 is an exploded detail view showing the magnetic
block as inscribed by the detail circle presented in FIG. 23.
[0054] FIGS. 25A-C are sectional side elevation views of the lower
portion of the third embodiment of the translatory motion strength
training apparatus with the user support carriage at various
positions along its predetermined range of motion.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0055] As utilized herein, terms such as "about," "approximately,"
"substantially," and "near" are intended to allow an element of
flexibility in mathematical exactness to account for tolerances
that are acceptable in the trade as should be understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art.
[0056] Before explaining the present invention in detail, it should
be noted that the invention is not limited in its application or
use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts
illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The
illustrative embodiments of the invention may be implemented or
incorporated in other embodiment, variations and modifications, and
may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Furthermore,
unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed
herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the
illustrative embodiments of the present invention and are not for
the purpose of limiting the invention. Further it is understood
that any one or more of the following-described embodiments,
expressions of embodiments, examples, methods, etc. can be combined
with any one or more of the other following--described embodiments,
expressions or embodiments, examples, methods, etc.
[0057] Velocity-independent resistance is the resistance provided
by the translatory motion strength training machine at a particular
position when velocity is constant or zero. Examples of
position-dependent resistance might include, but are not limited
to, displacement of a mass under the attraction of gravity or the
displacement of one end of a spring element such as a coil spring,
bow, or elastic band.
[0058] Velocity-dependent resistance is the added resistance
provided by the translatory motion strength training machine that
is essentially zero when velocity is zero and that increases with
increasing velocity.
[0059] Within this description, numerals are utilized to designate
referenced features of particular embodiment of the invention.
Letters are also sometimes used such as A, B, C to designate
multiple occurrences of the same, R and L to designate right side
and left side of symmetrical structures, and T or B to designate
top and bottom occurrences of a component or feature.
[0060] A first preferred embodiment of the present invention is
shown in FIGS. 1-6 of a translatory motion strength training
machine 30 includes frame 31 and seated row extension assembly 90
adapted for performing seated row type exercises. In this case,
multiple occurrences of weight plate 52A-H are guided by guide pole
51R and guide pole 51L and are utilized as the primary resistance
according to what is commonly known as a selectable weight stack
machine or pin selector machine. The primary position-dependent
resistance can be easily selected by placing selector pin 59 in one
of several pin selector holes 56K-0 for engaging the desired
occurrences of weight plate 52A-N to be coupled to carriage
assembly 54.
[0061] In FIGS. 1-2 illustrates a selectable weight stack strength
training machine 30. Frame 31 is supported by frame base 32 and
footer beam 35 which reside in a cross formation against the floor.
Rear column 28 and front column 37, which are interconnected to
frame base 32, form the basis for seated row extension assembly 90.
Seated row extension assembly 90 is provided with bench 40, foot
plate 39R and foot plate 39L for supporting the user during the
exercise. Although the particular embodiment shows a machine
configured for a seated row, an alternative configuration providing
most any exercise movement can be practiced within the context of
the present invention.
[0062] Frame 31 further includes column 33R and column 33L
extending upward from footer beam 35 for supporting header beam 36.
Rear column 34 extends upward from the end of frame base 32 and is
utilized in conjunction with header beam 36 for supporting
extension arm 58. While providing fixed attachment to extension arm
58, header beam 36 is also utilized for securing the top ends of
guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L in the intended fixed positions.
The bottom ends of guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L are secured to
footer beam 35 in the corresponding fixed positions for vertical
alignment in a fixed spatially parted relationship. Bumper 60R and
bumper 60L are provided around guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L
underneath weight plate 52. Numerous occurrences of weight plate 52
are provided that can be engaged according to the desired
resistance.
[0063] For the purpose of translating the exercise motion to the
displacement of one or more weight plate 52, a cable is provided to
facilitate translatory motion of carriage assembly 54 when handle
49 is displaced by user in conducting the exercise. Selectable
weight stack strength training machine 30 utilizes pulleys 44, 46,
48 to direct the cable 42 from the vertical projection of cable 42
as connected to weight selector rod 66 to a substantially
horizontal projection when pulled against pulley 48 with attached
handle 49. Pulley 48 is supported with a pin interconnected by
pulley mounting plate 47R and 47L that are affixed to front column
37. Resting plate 50 is provided near pulley 48, also affixed to
front column 37 to provide a resting place for handle 49 when not
in use. Pulley 46 is fixed in position by a pin through pulley
mounting plate 45R and pulley mounting plate 45L that are affixed
to extension arm 58. Pulley 46 is fixed in position by a pin
through pulley mounting plate 43R and pulley mounting plate 43L
also affixed to extension arm 58.
[0064] Carriage assembly 54 is adapted to be directed vertically by
guide pole 51R and weight plate 52L when handle 49 is pulled and
cable 42 is extended. According to this embodiment of the present
invention, carriage assembly 54 provides the primary resistance in
performing the exercises wherein header plate 61 affixed to weight
selector rod 66 with bolt 65 and weight selector rod 66 provides
the additional attachment of one or more occurrences of weight
plate 52A-N with selector pin 59 placed into desired pin slot 53.
Weight selector rod includes plunger end 68 that has tapered
leading-end geometry capable of facilitating repeated passage
through occurrences of weight plate 52A-N that are not coupled to
carriage assembly 54.
[0065] The resistance provided by coupled occurrences of weight
plate 52A-N is a resistance that is substantially constant with
constant velocity. According to this first preferred embodiment,
the resistance provided by one or more weight plate 52A-N will also
be substantially constant over the range of motion as no cam or
lever arm is currently known to be used in the field to provide a
variable resistance curve over the range of motion.
[0066] With regard to the novel aspect of the first preferred
embodiment selectable weight stack strength training machine 30,
magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are coupled to carriage
assembly 54 and directed along guide poles 51R and 51L to provide a
substantially velocity-dependent resistance of escalating
resistance with increasing velocity when carriage assembly 54 is
displaced by user.
[0067] FIGS. 2-4 illustrate locking bracket 82 affixed to header
plate 61 with bolt 86, wherein locking bracket 82 is utilized to
couple lock pin 73B of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B to locking
bracket 82 which, in turn, is coupled to weight selector rod 66 and
one or more weight plate 52A-N in forming carriage assembly 54. As
shown, magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T are adapted to be
coupled to header plate 61 whereby they are included as part of
carriage assembly 54. Magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T are
both provided along each of guide poles 51R and 51L.
[0068] FIGS. 3-4 present the attachment and composition of magnetic
resistance cylinders 70B and 70T. In this embodiment, magnetic
resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are identical in configuration.
They each include housing 71 that are characterized with bore 75
and housing bore 76 for accommodating multiple occurrences of ring
magnet 81D and ring magnet 81U in a configuration of alternating
magnetic polarity with occurrences of spacing ring 80 disposed in
between. The alternating configuration of ring magnets 81D and 81U
provides an alternating magnetic field which passes through
corresponding guide pole 51R or guide pole 51L. Preferably ring
magnets 81D and 81U are Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) magnets that
have a high magnetic energy product that exceeds 30 MGOe. Multiple
occurrences of spacing ring 80A-H are ferromagnetic and are
preferably Iron or a high permeability magnetic alloy such as many
Nickel alloys. As a low impedance conductor of magnetic flux,
spacing ring 80A-H serves to widen the magnetic flux path through
guide poles 51R and 51L and allows ease of assembly of ring magnets
81U and 81D in an alternating configuration without the need of
overcoming significant repulsive forces during assembly.
[0069] According to the first preferred embodiment of the
invention, guide poles 51R and 51L are an electrically conductive
material such as structural aluminum alloy. Preferably an aluminum
shaft would have a precisely defined outside diameter with hard
ceramic coating and be characterized with a surface roughness of
8-12 RMS as are readily available. The shaft size is preferably 1
inch or greater diameter wherein the eddy-current resistance per
unit length will increase with increasing shaft size.
Alternatively, guide poles 51R and 51L could preferably be anodized
at surface or be a composite of two materials wherein a rod is
fitted within a tube wherein an outer tube is a hard structural
element and the other electrically conductive material such as
copper. As magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are guided
along guide poles 51R and 51L during the displacement of carriage
assembly 54 in performing the exercise, eddy currents will be
produced within the proximal electrically conductive regions of
corresponding guide poles 51R and 51L. These eddy currents will
produce a field opposing the magnetic field produced by magnetic
resistance cylinders 70T and 70B, and will cause additional
resistance to be exhibited in the displacement of carriage assembly
54 against the user performing the exercise. This additional
resistance provided by the eddy currents generated by the
alternating magnetic field will be substantially velocity-dependent
wherein the added "drag" is substantially zero at zero velocity and
increases with increasing velocity.
[0070] According to this first preferred embodiment, magnetic
resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are configured to be separable
from each other and to be separable from header plate 61 by bayonet
type fittings wherein a number of hook projections engage pins by
the twisting-locking action of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T
and 70B. Corresponding handles 72B and 72A are provided to the user
to twist for engagement and disengagement of magnetic resistance
cylinders and for lifting and hanging of the same.
[0071] If it is desired not to reduce the velocity-dependent
resistance provided by the invention, one or both of magnetic
resistance cylinders 70T and 70B can be de-coupled from header
plate 61 of carriage assembly 54 and attached to hanging brackets
84R and 84L as shown in FIG. 5 wherein magnetic resistance cylinder
70T of guide poles 51R and 51L are removed from carriage assembly
54. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of both magnetic resistance
cylinders 70T and 70B are removed from carriage assembly 54 and
vertically supported near header beam 36.
[0072] Corresponding to the configuration of FIG. 5 the
velocity-dependent resistance exhibited by the machine will be
approximately one half that associated with both magnetic
resistance cylinders 70T and 70B coupled to carriage assembly 54.
Corresponding to the configuration shown FIG. 6, carriage assembly
54 will not exhibit any significant velocity-dependent resistance
as is the case with prior art strength training machines.
[0073] Enabling features that provide the coupling and decoupling
of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are best seen in FIGS.
3-4. Locking brackets 82R and 82L are secured to header plate 61
with multiple occurrences bolt 86 secured in corresponding
occurrences of threaded hole 83. Locking bracket 82 includes four
occurrences of locking hook 78 for removable-attachment of magnetic
resistance cylinder 70B thereto. Header plate 61 includes guide
hole 62 provided by affixed bushing 57 for providing a low friction
guiding support of carriage assembly 54 along guide poles (guide
poles 51R and 51L).
[0074] 70B and magnetic resistance cylinder 70T each include four
occurrences of lock pin 73 near the bottom end for engagement with
corresponding locking hooks. Magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and
70T each include locking header bracket 77 bolted to the top
portion of housing 71. Locking header bracket 77 includes four
occurrences of locking hook 78 for interfacing with interlocking
pins. Lock pin 73 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B is adapted
for interlocking with locking hook 78 of locking bracket 82. Lock
pin 73 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70T is adapted for
interlocking with locking hook 78 of magnetic resistance cylinder
70B. Lock pin 85 of hanging brackets 84R and 84L are adapted for
interlocking with locking hook 78 of magnetic resistance cylinder
70T. Compression gasket 79 is provided on locking bracket 82 to
provide some compression for the bayonet type attachment of
magnetic resistance cylinder 70B to locking bracket 82. Compression
gasket 79 is provided on locking header bracket 77 of magnetic
resistance cylinder 70B to provide some compression for the bayonet
type attachment of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T to 70B.
[0075] FIGS. 7-15 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein strength training apparatus is a plate
loaded type of translatory strength training machine adapted for
the exercise movement know as the leg press wherein a plate loaded
carriage assembly is displaced upward against the force of gravity
at an incline along linear guide rails.
[0076] Leg press strength training apparatus 100 is supported on
the floor by base frame 102 includes cross beam 103, side beam
104R, side beam 104L, and back rest support beam 105. Vertical
frame 107 extends upward near the rear of the machine and includes
column 108R extending from side beam 104R and column 108L extending
from side beam 104L. Cross beam 109 bridges across column 108L and
column 108R to provide structural reinforcement. Inclined frame 111
intersects base frame 102 along cross beam 103 and includes 112R
suspended by column 108R and 112L suspended by column 108L.
Inclined frame 111 includes cross beam 113 near the top of vertical
frame 107 spanning across inclined frame 111. These elements are
the primary structural elements of the machine frame which are
preferably welded together or alternatively bolted together.
[0077] The user is supported by seat 101 which is secured to
inclined frame 111 and by height adjustment mechanism 127 linked to
back rest support beam 105. Back rest assembly 125 can be pivoted
at hinge joint 126 interconnected at cross beam 103 and is
adjustable as shown by alternating the length of height adjustment
mechanism 127 as are used in the art.
[0078] Carriage assembly 150 is directed in a rectilinear path
along inclined frame 111 wherein linear shaft 115R and linear shaft
115L are provided for supporting linear bearing assembly 152R and
linear bearing assembly 152L of carriage assembly 150. Linear shaft
115R is secured by extension shoulder 114R extending from 112R on
the bottom end and is secured to cross beam 113 at the top of
inclined frame 111. Likewise linear shaft 115L is secured by
extension shoulder extending from 112L near the bottom end and is
secured to cross beam 113 at the top of inclined frame 111. As
shown linear shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L are secured in a
spaced apart parallel relationship. Preferably linear shaft 115R
and linear shaft 115L are precision hardened steel shafts and are
sized sufficiently to support the weight of carriage assembly 150
supporting the incline associated with inclined frame 111. Linear
shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L further include top bumper 116R,
bottom bumper 117R, top bumper 116L, and bottom bumper 117L near
the respective ends.
[0079] Carriage assembly 150 is adapted for carrying a load
associated with several occurrences of free weight 164 loaded on to
receiving end 163R and receiving end 163L. This load is translated
to cross bar 160 which is structurally coupled to other elements of
carriage assembly 150 including foot plate 155 and top spanner
plate 153. Linear bearing assemblies 152R and 152L are structurally
coupled to and sandwiched between top spanner plate 153 and bottom
spanner plate 154. Compression beams 156R and 156L are provided to
structurally support foot plate 155 in a fixed orientation. Thus
when a user is seated in leg press strength training apparatus 100
and applies sufficient force against foot plate 155, carriage
assembly 150 will be guided as a single unit along linear shafts
115R and 115L.
[0080] For the purposes of locking carriage assembly 150 in a
position that is not completely at the end of the range of motion
and as a safety mechanism, lock bars 120R and 120L are provided
coupled to 112R and 112L of inclined frame 111 respectively. Lock
bar 120L is coupled to 112L at front pivot support bracket 118L at
the proximal end and rear pivot support bracket 119L at the distal
end, front pivot support bracket 118L and rear pivot support
bracket 119L allow pivoting shaft 121L to pivot along its axis with
the turn of handle 124L by the users' hands. Primary lock tab 122L
and secondary lock tab 123L are welded to pivoting shaft 121L for
abutting against landing pad 162L supported on cross bar 160 of
carriage assembly 150. Likewise lock bar 120R includes the same
features for providing the functionality of locking carriage
assembly 150 in various positions along its range of motion. That
is, lock bar 120R is coupled to 112R at front pivot support bracket
118R at the proximal end and rear pivot support bracket 119R at the
distal end. Front pivot support bracket 118R and rear pivot support
bracket 119R allow pivoting shaft 121R to pivot along its axis with
the turn of handle 124R by the user. Primary lock tab 122R and
secondary lock tab 123R are welded to pivoting shaft 121R for
abutting against stop pad 129R supported on cross bar 160 of
carriage assembly 150.
[0081] As described up to now, leg press strength training
apparatus 100 provides the user with a resistance that is
substantially independent of velocity which is determined by the
total weight of carriage assembly 150 including the occurrences of
free weight 164 and the incline of inclined frame 111. The unique
aspects of the invention according to the second preferred
embodiment will be described which also provides a substantially
velocity-dependent resistance to the user in addition to the
"static" resistance provided by the combined mass of carriage
assembly 150 and occurrences of free weight 164. According to this
second preferred embodiment, eddy-current resistance is also
employed but in a different scheme as indicated in the first
preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-6.
[0082] To achieve velocity-dependent resistance, leg press strength
training apparatus 100 includes pivoting structure 136 supported by
side beam 104, vertical frame 107 and inclined frame 111 which is
adapted to interface with magnetic block assemblies 171R and 171L
secured to the underside of carriage assembly 150 as seen in FIGS.
8 and 10. Mounting base 170 is provided affixed to bottom spanner
plate 154 for the mounting of magnetic block assemblies 171R and
171L in a symmetrical spaced apart relationship to the underside of
carriage assembly 150.
[0083] As best seen in FIGS. 14A-14D, each occurrence of magnetic
block assembly 171 (R or L) include magnetic block assembly 171
adapted for securing to mounting base 170 and for supporting
multiple occurrences of block magnet 173A and block magnet 173B in
the indicated positions. Block magnets 173A and 173B are provided
in an alternating configuration wherein the magnetic poles of
adjacent magnets are opposing. This configuration results in an
alternating magnetic field within a region of space proximal to
magnetic block assembly 171 and especially cover box 174. The
occurrences of block magnets 173A and 173B are secured within a
central pocket of cover box 174. Cover box 174 is in turn secured
to mounting bracket 172 with multiple occurrences of bolt 175.
[0084] Mounting bracket 172 is preferably a ferromagnetic material
with a high permeability for conducting magnet flux in the backside
of magnetic block assembly 171 for eliminating stray field and for
focusing the field toward the region of front side of magnetic
block assembly 171 for interfacing with conductive turret 137 of
pivoting structure 136. According to this embodiment cover box 174
is a non-magnetic material and has a minimal wall thickness
adjacent to encased occurrences of block magnets 173A and 173B.
Block magnets 173A and 173B are preferably strong thick and wide
magnets for providing an intense magnetic field which alternates
along the outside face of cover box 174. Thus, when encountering
relative motion when in close proximity to an electrically
conductive plate 139C such as shown in configuration of FIG. 11,
substantial eddy currents will be generated in the conductive plate
139C that would produce a force in opposition to the direction of
movement.
[0085] According to this second preferred embodiment, pivoting
structure 136 provides a means to engage a conductive plate in
close proximity to magnetic block assemblies 171R and 171L of
carriage assembly 150. Pivoting structure 136 is adapted to pivot
away from carriage assembly 150 when disengaged as shown in FIGS.
16-17 or locked in a substantially parallel relationship with
inclined frame 111 when engaged in relationship with carriage
assembly 150. Base frame 102 further includes cross beam 106
spanning between side beams 104R and 104L. Cross beam 106 includes
hinge 128 at center for providing a pivoting interface with hinge
bracket 147 of pivoting structure 136. Support rod 144 extends
between hinge bracket 147 at lower pivoting end to lock bracket 148
at locking end. Conductive turret 137 is located at an intended
position between tubular elements front tube segment 145 and rear
tube segment 146. For locking pivoting structure 136 in the engaged
position shown in FIGS. 7-11, cross beam 113 of inclined frame 111
further includes bracket 131 for pivoting attachment of attachment
arm 130 for holding pivoting structure 136 in a fixed pivoted
position when locking pin 149 is inserted for coupling lock bracket
148 to attachment arm 130.
[0086] When locking pin 149 is removed or temporally pulled to
release pivoting structure 136 from attachment arm 130, pivoting
structure 136 can be pivoted downward into a de-coupled
relationship with respect to mounting bracket 172R and mounting
bracket 172L as shown in FIGS. 16-17. When released, stop pad 129
secured to base frame 102 will provide a stop against front tube
segment 145 in limiting the angular rotation of pivoting structure
136. In the released position, pivoting structure 136 is suspended
in a position wherein conductive turret 137 can be rotated without
contact against cross beam 109, shoulder structure 110R or shoulder
structure 110L.
[0087] As best seen in FIG. 10 and FIG. 16, shoulder structure 110R
and shoulder structure 110L are closely spaced structures suspended
from cross beam 113 which provide a gap there in between. This gap
serves to engage conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B,
conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D of conductive
turret 137 in a fixed radial orientation when pivoting structure
136 is connected to attachment arm 130 with locking pin 149 of lock
bracket 148. When pivoting structure 136 is engaged shoulder
structure 110R and shoulder structure 110L will prohibit the
rotation of conductive turret 137 and fix conductive plate 139A,
conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate
139D in a substantially parallel relationship such as shown in FIG.
11 with conductive plate 139C centrally located between magnetic
block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L. It can
further be appreciated from FIG. 11 that conductive plate 139C is
in close proximity with block magnet 173A and block magnet 173B of
magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L
although not touching the two occurrences of cover box 174.
[0088] This second preferred embodiment provides a substantially
large interface of a thick section of conductive plate fully
interfaced to a substantially strong alternating magnetic field
provided over a substantially large surface area by substantially
thick magnets. Correspondingly, substantially large eddy-currents
will be generated corresponding to the velocity of relative
translation of carriage assembly 150 with respective conductive
turret 137. Accordingly, this embodiment of plate and slot
configuration providing eddy current can produce substantially
greater velocity-dependent resistance as would be appropriate for a
leg press exercise with higher loads as opposed to a the seated row
strength training apparatus described in the first preferred
embodiment of FIGS. 1-6.
[0089] Now describing pivoting structure 136 of the second
preferred embodiment, conductive turret 137 of pivoting structure
136 is a structure with multiple outward projecting plates
extending from a tubular section. As indicated in FIGS. 12A-12D a
preferred configuration of conductive turret 137 includes four
plates, conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive
plate 139C and conductive plate 139D extending from tubular portion
138 at 90 degrees apart. Each plate initiates at front shoulder 140
and terminates at rear shoulder 141 and correspondingly includes
leading taper 142A, leading taper 142B, leading taper 142C, and
leading taper 142D. The leading taper provides a transition for
magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L to
have minimum engagement with respect to one of conductive plate
139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive
plate 139D during the beginning of the leg press movement as shown
in the position of carriage assembly 150 of FIG. 15A. Thus the
added velocity-dependent eddy current resistance generated by the
plate and slot interaction of pivoting structure 136 with magnetic
block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L will be less
at the beginning of the range of movement than at the end when the
full width of conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B,
conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D is interfaced with
magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L.
[0090] In addition to the tapered leading end, numerous occurrences
of perforations 143B, perforations 143C and perforations 143D will
provide a diminished velocity-dependent resistance than what would
be associated with a non-perforated conductive plate of equal
thickness such as conductive plate 139A. Perforations or holes
within the conductive plate will reduce the extent of eddy current
formation and thus the opposing force as carriage assembly 150 is
displaced along its range of motion.
[0091] Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15C. The extent of
velocity-dependent resistance will vary as magnetic block assembly
171L and magnetic block assembly 171R (not shown) are translated
with respect to conductive plate 139C of conductive turret 137. At
the starting position of FIG. 15A, velocity-dependent resistance
due to the creation of eddy currents in conductive plate 139C will
be minimal as only a portion of conductive plate 139C is in
proximal relationship with the alternating magnetic field of
magnetic block assembly 171L and magnetic block assembly 171R. Eddy
currents will also be minimal because the portion of conductive
plate 139C that is in proximal relationship with the alternating
magnetic field of magnetic block assembly 171L and magnetic block
assembly 171R exhibits a high density of perforations 143C. At a
position in the mid range of motion as shown in FIG. 15B
velocity-dependent resistance caused by induced eddy currents in
conductive plate 139C will be greater than at the position of FIG.
15A since at this position leading taper 142C has been bypassed.
Velocity-dependent resistance will be highest near the end of the
range of motion as shown in FIG. 15C since in this position both
leading taper 142C and perforations 143C will be substantially
bypassed. Thus the velocity dependence exhibited by the electrical
magnetic interaction of carriage assembly 150 with pivoting
structure 136 will vary depending on the relative position of
magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L with
respect to conductive plate 139C over the range of motion.
[0092] Correspondingly this second preferred embodiment of the
device provides a variable velocity-dependent resistance curve
which can be adjusted based on which of conductive plate 139A,
conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate
139D is engaged in a proximal relationship with respect to magnetic
block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L of carriage
assembly 150 shown in FIG. 11. Now referring back to FIGS. 12A-12D,
as opposed to conductive plate 139A which includes no perforations,
conductive plate 139B includes perforations 143B which extends from
front shoulder 140 over a portion of conductive plate 139B.
Perforations 143C of conductive plate 139C extend over a greater
distance from front shoulder 140 than perforations 143B.
Perforations 143D of conductive plate 1390 extend over a greater
distance from front shoulder 140 than perforations 143C. Thus
conductive plate 139A, tubular portion 138B, conductive plate 139C,
and conductive plate 139D will each be characterized by a differing
velocity-dependent resistance curve as carriage assembly 150 is
directed through its range of motion.
[0093] If according to the users preference it is desired to
conduct the exercise without the augmentation of a
velocity-dependent resistance, the user can simply disengage
pivoting structure 136 and leave in the pivoted position as shown
in FIGS. 16-17 wherein conductive turret 137 is not in a proximal
relationship with respect to magnetic block assembly 171R and
magnetic block assembly 171R of carriage assembly 150. Thus
according to this embodiment of the invention there are essentially
five settings pertaining to the selectable velocity-dependent
resistance that varies with respect to position. This includes from
least velocity-dependent resistance to greatest velocity-dependent
resistance:
(1) The state of total disengagement of conductive turret (2) The
state of engagement of conductive plate 139D of conductive turret
137 (3) The state of engagement of conductive plate 139C of
conductive turret 137 (4) The state of engagement of conductive
plate 139B of conductive turret 137 (5) The state of engagement of
conductive plate 139A of conductive turret 137 providing the
greatest extent of velocity-dependent resistance over most of the
range of motion.
[0094] Shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, is conductive turret 190 of an
alternative configuration as compared to conductive turret 137 of
FIGS. 12A-12D. This configuration differs in that increased
occurrences of conductive plate 192A-H are provided for providing
velocity-dependent resistance over a differing range of motion. In
this case eight plates are provided at forty-five degrees rather
than four at ninety degrees. Conductive plates 192A-H extending
outward from axis of tubular portion, 191 each have a corresponding
leading taper 194A-H that initiates at a position incrementally
more closer from front shoulder 193. Thus conductive plate 192A
will provide the smallest range of motion in which a
velocity-dependent resistance will be realized (at the end of the
exercise motion) while conductive plate 192H will facilitate a
velocity-dependent resistance over essentially the full range of
motion.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 18-25C a third preferred embodiment of a
translatory motion strength training device is shown. From an above
view user support platform strength training machine 200 is nearly
identical to what is commonly known as the popular "total gym"
relies on the users' body weight supported in an incline as the
primary position dependent resistance. As indicated in the
configuration shown in FIG. 18, this embodiment of the invention is
compact and foldable. On account that it doesn't rely on a weight
stack or loaded free weights, user support platform strength
training machine 200 is also light, portable. User support platform
strength training machine 200 is also comparatively low cost to
manufacture especially considering the number of exercises
movements that user support platform strength training machine 200
can potentially facilitate.
[0096] Unlike prior art systems such as the "Total Gym," this
embodiment of the present invention includes means for a
velocity-dependent in conjunction with the velocity-independent
resistance provided substantially by the users' body weight.
[0097] Now describing the third preferred embodiment in detail,
user support platform strength training machine 200 includes
vertical frame 201, top rail frame 202, bottom rail frame 203 and
user support platform 204 and foot rest 205 as the primary
structural assemblies. As indicated in FIG. 18 these structures can
be folded in such a configuration to occupy a small foot print or
volume for storage.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 19-23, user support platform strength
training machine 200 is shown in the deployed configuration as
ready for conducting an exercise movement such as a chest press
where as a user would sit on user support platform 204 and grab
handle 207R and handle 207L connected to ends of cable 206. As user
would displace handle 207R and handle 207L either unilaterally or
bilaterally causing user support platform 204 to roll upward along
bottom rail frame 203 and top rail frame 202.
[0099] Vertical frame 201 includes base tube 212 on which rubber
sleeve 213R and rubber sleeve 213L are connected for residing on
the floor. U-frame 216 is a U-shaped structural member adapted for
residing in a substantially vertical position. U-frame 216 of
vertical frame 201 includes numerous occurrences of vertical hook
217R and corresponding occurrences of vertical hook 217L for
providing support positions in adjusting incline of bottom rail
frame 203, top rail frame 202 and user support platform 204 and
thus the relative resistance provided by the users' body weight.
Base tube 212 of vertical frame 201 further includes pivot plate
214R and pivot plate 214L for supporting bolt 215 for providing a
pivot interface with compression strut 210. Compression strut 210
extends for base tube 212 to end pivot 224 which defines the pivot
of the three structures top rail frame 202, bottom rail frame 203
and compression strut 210. Compression strut 210 ensures that when
incline of vertical frame 201, top rail frame 202, and user support
platform 204 is changed with respect to the several occurrences of
vertical hook 217R and corresponding occurrences of vertical hook
217L to various inclines that vertical frame 201 remains in a
vertical orientation.
[0100] When user support platform strength training machine 200 is
deployed, top rail frame 202 and bottom rail frame 203 pivot about
end pivot 224 to lock in a substantially parallel relationship to
form a rail guide bridging across top rail frame 202 and bottom
rail frame 203. Top rail frame 202 includes top rail segment 220R
and top rail segment 220L for directing user support platform 204.
Cross bar 223 spans across between top rail segment 220R and top
rail segment 220L for providing lateral structural support.
Structural elements are also provided at end pivot 224 in the form
of a shaft and dispersed spacers (not shown) for providing lateral
support and spacing for the lower ends of top rail segment 220R and
top rail segment 220L. At the top ends of top rail segment 220R and
top rail segment 220L corresponding curved end 227R and curved end
227L are provided as advantageous for hanging top rail frame 202 at
various elevations wherein lateral hook 225R and lateral hook 225L
extend from curved end 227R and curved end 227L for engaging with
one of the several occurrences of vertical hook 217R and the
corresponding occurrence of vertical hook 217L at equal
elevation.
[0101] Eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L are further provided on curved
end 227R and curved end 227L respectively to provide an attachment
point for pulley block 208R and pulley block 208L respectively with
carabineer 209R and carabineer 209L. Thus pulley block 208R and
pulley block 208L are allowed to essentially hinge and pivot about
eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L respectively.
[0102] Bottom rail frame 203 is coupled to top rail frame 202 at
end pivot 224 with pivot tab 237R and conductive plate 238R
interconnected to bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment
230L. Bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L of
bottom rail frame 203 are of the same width and are in the same
spaced-apart-parallel relationship as top rail segment 220R and top
rail segment 220L of top rail frame 202. Base tube 232 is provided
at bottom of bottom rail frame 203 and includes rubber sleeve 233R
and rubber sleeve 233L for residing on the floor. Bottom rail
segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L are structurally coupled
to top rail frame 202 in a fixed spaced apart relationship with
fasteners or are alternatively welded in place. Foot rest 205
includes platform 229 supported by frame 228 which is removably
attachable (fasteners not shown) to the bottom ends of bottom rail
segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L in the position and
orientation shown.
[0103] Top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L of top rail
frame 202 are of a substantially rectangular cross-section and, in
the deployed configuration, co-linear with bottom rail segment 230R
and bottom rail segment 230L of bottom rail frame 203 for providing
a lengthy rail for supporting the translatory motion of user
support platform 204 during the performance of an exercise
movement. When not displaced, user support platform 204 is
supported entirely on bottom rail frame 203 and resides against
bumper 234R and bumper 234L affixed to bottom rail segment 230R and
bottom rail segment 230L respectively. When displaced, as shown in
FIGS. 25B and 25C, user support platform 204 is directed upward
away from bottom of bottom rail frame 203 and passing end pivot 224
to roll along top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L.
[0104] Now referring back to FIGS. 19-24, user support platform 204
includes base plate 240 with pad 241 secured to the outside thereon
and roller bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L secured to the
underside thereon by numerous occurrences of bolt 244. As best seen
in FIG. 21, two occurrences of roller bracket 242 are each
supported within roller bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L and
the leading and trailing ends of user support platform 204. Roller
bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L provide that the occurrences
of track roller assembly 243 in roller bracket 242R are at a
symmetrical spaced apart relationship consistent with the spacing
of top rail segment 220R and bottom rail segment 230R with respect
to top rail segment 220L and bottom rail segment 230L. Thus when
user support platform 204 is placed on bottom rail frame 203 it can
role upward along the rail provided by top rail segment 220R and
bottom rail segment 230R on the right side and top rail segment
220L and bottom rail segment 230L on the left side.
[0105] User support platform 204 further includes pulley bracket
245 mounted to underside of base plate 240 by several occurrences
of bolt 247. Pulley bracket 245 provides an eyelet means to attach
pulley block 208C with carabineer 209C in the indicated position.
It can now be understood that with pulley block 208C connected to
user support platform 204 and with pulley block 208R and pulley
block 208L connected to eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L respectively of
top rail frame 202, that with cable 206 routed as shown that
downward displacement of handle 207R and handle 207L will cause
upward displacement of platform providing the means for a user to
act against body weight when performing an exercise movement.
[0106] It also unique to this particular embodiment that the
resistance encountered by the user at a fixed velocity will vary
according to the position of user support platform 204 through the
range of translatory motion. This is on account of the change in
included angle of cable 206 as it is rapped around pulley of pulley
block 208C and supported by pulley block 208R and pulley block
208L. Due to the changing angle of applying a tension to cable 206
for displacing user support platform 204 the velocity-independent
resistance will increase as the user support platform 204 is
displaced upward. Thus the primary resistance provided by the
users' body weight supported on user support platform 204 will be
significantly position dependent especially near the end of the
range of motion.
[0107] Now the features of user support platform strength training
machine 200 that provide for an additional velocity-dependent
resistance will be described in detail. Eddy current resistive
interaction is provided by conductive plate 238 structurally
coupled to bottom rail frame 203 and magnetic block assembly 250
attached to base plate 240 on the underside of user support
platform 204.
[0108] As best understood from FIG. 21, FIG. 23 and FIG. 24
magnetic block assembly 250 is displaced on the underside of user
support platform 204 in a central region near the trailing end.
Magnetic block assembly 250 in attached to bracket 251A and bracket
251B by several occurrences of bolt 255 wherein bracket 251A and
bracket 251B are attached to base plate 240 with bolts (shown but
not referenced). Magnetic block assembly 250 includes housing 253
that houses several occurrences of block magnet 254 in a
configuration of alternating magnetic polarity as shown in FIG. 24.
Housing 253 is preferably a ferromagnetic material of high magnetic
permeability such as iron for conducting the magnetic flux
associated with the occurrences of block magnet 254 away from the
top side of user support platform 204 and toward adjacent
conductive plate 238 secured to bottom rail frame 203. Thus
conductive plate 238 is subject to an intense alternating magnetic
field that will cause eddy currents to be generated within
conductive plate 238 when encountering relative motion with respect
to magnetic block assembly 250.
[0109] It can be appreciated from the relative width, depth and
thickness, and number of occurrences of block magnet 254 within
magnetic block assembly 250 that a substantial alternating magnetic
field will be exhibited especially if the magnets used are
Neodymium Boron Iron magnets of a high energy product.
[0110] Now referring to the mounting of conductive plate 238, this
is best seen FIG. 20, FIG. 23, and FIGS. 25A-25C. Conductive plate
238 is a substantially wide plate spanning the width associated
with magnetic block assembly 250 and extending from near the bottom
rail frame 203 to the top of bottom rail frame 203 near end pivot
224. Conductive plate 238 includes several spaced apart occurrences
of rib 239 on the underside which provide structural rigidity to
conductive plate 238 when encountering forces associated with
eddy-current generated resistances. Occurrences of rib 239 also
includes holes for fixation on one end at end pivot 224 and
fixation at the bottom end by mounting rod 235 which is attached to
tab 236R and tab 236L that are in turn welded to the insides of
bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L
respectively.
[0111] Tab 236R and tab 236L provide that the displacement of
conductive plate 238 with respect to magnetic block assembly 250 is
further at the bottom of bottom rail frame 203 than at the top of
bottom rail frame 203 near end pivot 224. FIGS. 25A-C show the
relative position of magnetic block assembly 250 with respect to
conductive plate 238 of bottom rail frame 203 as user support
platform 204 is guided through its range of motion. At the start
position, shown in FIG. 25A, the gap between magnetic block
assembly 250 and conductive plate 238 is at a maximum. At the
middle position shown in FIG. 25B the gap narrows. And at the top
position as shown in FIG. 25C the gap between magnetic block
assembly 250 and conductive plate 238 is at a minimum. This aspect
of the third preferred embodiment provides the user with a
velocity-dependent resistance that increases as the user support
platform 204 encounters translatory motion during the performance
of an exercise in conjunction with the primary resistance
associated with the users' weight at an incline.
[0112] The previous embodiments are specific examples of the
invention that in general provide the augmentation of a
velocity-resistance in addition the resistance that is
substantially independent of velocity. The extra functionality
provided by the present invention has the benefit of giving users
more control as to how they design their workout and how they
perform the exercise movement in optimizing their routine for
producing improved results wherein the translatory motion strength
training apparatus limits the ability of the user to use inertia in
cheating through their strength training routine.
[0113] It is understood from the above description of second and
third preferred embodiments that there are numerous ways to provide
a velocity-dependent resistance that is also dependent on position.
For example, it is possible to utilize plate(s) as the electrically
conductive element includes variable cross sections wherein the
eddy-current resistance would vary during the range of motion.
Using conductive plates with various hole patterns would provide
damping that would change during the range of motion. An
alternative way to achieve adjustable variable resistance is to
provide a means to vary the interface of one or more conductive
element(s) with respect to the magnetic component(s). For example,
if a deep slot is provided wherein an electrically conductive plate
is positioned between two magnetic blocks, the depth of the
conductive plate within that slot can be adjusted at an incline so
that eddy-current resistance will vary over the range of
translatory motion. Changes in thickness of a conductive plate as
the resistance carrying carriage transverses will also provide
variable resistance in addition to speed-dependent damping.
Correspondingly, the variable resistance means can be provided
according to an embodiment of the present invention that achieves a
similar advantage to prior art systems that facilitate adjustable
variable resistance curves.
[0114] It is also understood that embodiments of the present
invention can provide an added benefit for explosive strength
training such as for athletes training for specific sports, wherein
a user would attempt to conduct the exercise movement within a
limited period of time despite the additional velocity-dependent
resistance provided. Such training would be productive since the
athlete would be limited to the extent that momentum could be used
to assist with the exercise movement. If the velocity-dependent
resistance means is adapted to be variable over the range of motion
and the user is attempting to conduct repetitions at high
frequency, the virtual resistance of the translatory motion
strength training apparatus will vary over the range of motion even
if the resistance provided by a mass or other resistance means
(independent of velocity) is not variable. Therefore an added
benefit of the present invention is that resistance curves
generated can be both dependent on velocity and position as is not
the case with prior art systems.
[0115] Although the present invention has been described herein
with reference to a particular embodiment, it will be understood
that this description is exemplary in nature and is not considered
as a limitation on the scope of the invention. The scope and spirit
of the present invention is therefore only limited by the appended
claims and the reasonable interpretation thereof:
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