U.S. patent application number 13/404987 was filed with the patent office on 2012-12-20 for multi-axis resistance exercise devices and systems.
Invention is credited to Kenneth Bryan Gautier.
Application Number | 20120322628 13/404987 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42354626 |
Filed Date | 2012-12-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120322628 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gautier; Kenneth Bryan |
December 20, 2012 |
Multi-axis Resistance Exercise Devices and Systems
Abstract
This is an exercise apparatus and system characterized generally
by the presence of a user interface member having a point of
attachment to the apparatus that is positionable at different
locations along an arcuate path determined, dictated and/or
supported/braced by an arcuate guide. The central axis of the
arcuate path may intersect the ball joint of a user. The arcuate
path and the arcuate guide may lie in spaced substantially parallel
planes and the user interface member be one of a rigid arm with a
handle or forearm interface, or a flexible member with a free
handle at its end forming the user interface. A flexible linkage
forms part of the operative connection between the user interface
and a weight stack or other apparatus providing adjustable
resistance, with the flexible linkage being reeved through a
centering pulley proximate the central axis of the arcuate
member.
Inventors: |
Gautier; Kenneth Bryan;
(Senatobia, MS) |
Family ID: |
42354626 |
Appl. No.: |
13/404987 |
Filed: |
February 24, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12584197 |
Sep 1, 2009 |
8157710 |
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13404987 |
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11899463 |
Sep 6, 2007 |
7601106 |
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12584197 |
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10758870 |
Jan 16, 2004 |
7341546 |
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11899463 |
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60441708 |
Jan 21, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/97 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/4049 20151001;
A63B 21/4035 20151001; A63B 23/1245 20130101; A63B 21/005 20130101;
A63B 23/03541 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B 23/03533
20130101; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B 21/0628 20151001; A63B
23/0405 20130101; A63B 23/03508 20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101;
A63B 21/152 20130101; A63B 21/4047 20151001; A63B 23/1272 20130101;
A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B 23/1254 20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101;
A63B 2208/0233 20130101; A63B 23/1263 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/97 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/062 20060101
A63B021/062 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. (canceled)
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. (canceled)
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. (canceled)
11. (canceled)
12. (canceled)
13. (canceled)
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. An apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body, comprising: an arcuate
guide having a central axis; an other arcuate guide having an other
central axis, which other arcuate guide depends from said arcuate
guide, and which other arcuate guide is positionable at a plurality
of points along an arcuate path sharing said central axis; a user
interface member depending from said other arcuate guide, which
user interface member has a first end which is positionable at a
plurality of points along an other arcuate path sharing said other
central axis, and a second end with a user interface; and apparatus
providing adjustable resistance to movement of said user interface
by a user.
17. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 16, wherein at
least one of: the central axis of said arcuate path intersects said
ball joint, the other central axis of said other arcuate path
intersects said ball joint, said other arcuate guide depends from a
revolving arc mounted to said arcuate guide, said user interface
member depends from a revolving arc mounted to said other arcuate
guide, and the apparatus providing adjustable resistance to
movement of said user interface by a user includes an
electromechanical resistance mechanism.
18. An apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body, comprising: a peripherally
pivotably mounted arcuate guide; a user interface member depending
from said arcuate guide; apparatus providing adjustable resistance
to movement of said user interface by a user.
19. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 18, wherein at
least one of the arcuate guide pivots around an axis intersecting
said ball joint, said interface member is a rigid arm, which rigid
arm is pivotably mounted to said apparatus for exercising muscles
associated with a ball joint via its first end so as to define an
axis of rotation for said interface member, which axis of rotation
for said interface member intersects said ball joint, the apparatus
for exercising muscles associated with a ball joint of the human
body further comprises a lateral stabilizer connected to said
arcuate guide, the arcuate guide pivots around an axis that is
collinear with a radius of the arcuate guide, and the apparatus
providing adjustable resistance to movement of said user interface
by a user includes an electromechanical resistance mechanism.
20. (canceled)
21. An apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of a human body, comprising: a user interface
member for exercising a ball joint of a human body, which user
interface member has a first end which is positionable at a
plurality of points along an arcuate path, and a second end with a
user interface; apparatus providing adjustable resistance to
movement of said user interface by a user; wherein said arcuate
path has and defines a central axis transverse to said arcuate path
such that said arcuate path is substantially radially symmetrically
arranged around said central axis; and wherein the central axis of
said arcuate path intersects said ball joint.
22. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or bail joints of the human body of claim 21, further
comprising a guide member with said user interface member depending
from said guide member wherein said guide member is an arcuate
guide, said arcuate path and said guide member are substantially
coplanar, and said user interface member comprises a rigid arm.
23. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, further
comprising a guide member with said user interface member depending
from said guide member wherein said guide member is an arcuate
guide, said arcuate path and said guide member lie in spaced
substantially parallel planes, and said user interface member
comprises one of a rigid arm, and a flexible member with a free
handle at its second end forming the user interface.
24. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, further
comprising a guide member with said user interface member depending
from said guide member wherein said user interface member depends
from a revolving arc mounted to said guide member.
25. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein a
linkage is intermediate and forms part of an operative connection
between said user interface and said apparatus providing adjustable
resistance, said linkage being routed through a centering member
proximate said central axis.
26. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein a
linkage is intermediate and forms part of an operative connection
between said user interface and said apparatus providing adjustable
resistance, and said linkage is arranged and routed so as to
maintain the same length when said user interface is repositioned
along said arcuate path.
27. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, further
comprising a guide member with said user interface member depending
from said guide member, and an other guide member with an other
user interface member for exercising an other ball joint of the
human body depending from said other guide member, said other user
interface member having an other first end which is positionable at
a plurality of other points along an other arcuate path having an
other central axis, and an other second end with an other user
interface.
28. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, further
comprising a guide member with said user interface member depending
from said guide member wherein said guide member is an arcuate
guide and one of: said arcuate guide comprises a complete circle,
said arcuate guide comprises an arc segment of a circle, said
arcuate guide comprises a plurality of rotating support members
adapted to rotatably support a revolving arc, and said arcuate
guide comprises an arcuate tubular member adapted to slidingly
support the revolving arc.
29. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball joint of
the human body further comprises a drive shaft intermediate and
forming part of the linkage between said user interface and said
apparatus providing adjustable resistance.
30. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball joint of
the human body further comprises concentric drive shafts with each
of said drive shafts linked to a separate user interface member
intermediate and forming part of the linkage between the said user
interfaces and said apparatus providing adjustable resistance.
31. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball joint of
the human body further comprises a differential drive intermediate
and forming part of the linkage between said user interface and
said apparatus providing adjustable resistance.
32. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
apparatus providing adjustable resistance to movement of said user
interface by a user includes one of a weight stack and an
electromechanical resistance mechanism.
33. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 28, further
comprising a drive assembly intermediate said apparatus providing
adjustable resistance and said user interface member, said drive
assembly including a boom member, with at least one of: a portion
of said boom member extending transversely of said arcuate path,
and portions of said boom member extend transversely of said
arcuate path and each other.
34. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 33, further
comprising a lateral stabilizer connected to one of said boom, and
said arcuate guide.
35. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 34, wherein said
lateral stabilizer is connected to said boom and at least one of:
said lateral stabilizer includes a parallel arcuate stabilizer
guide centered on said central axis, which parallel arcuate
stabilizer guide can be one of rotatable about said central axis
and fixed, said lateral stabilizer includes a radial stabilizer
member having an end connected to said boom and another end
pivotably supported at and rotatable around said central axis, and
said lateral stabilizer is formed as a radial extension of said
boom.
36. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 34, wherein said
lateral stabilizer is connected to said revolving arc and includes
one of: a parallel arcuate stabilizer guide centered on said
central axis, which parallel arcuate stabilizer guide can be one of
rotatable about said central axis and fixed, and a radial
stabilizer member having an end connected to said revolving arc and
another end pivotably supported at and rotatable around said
central axis.
37. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 25, wherein said
linkage is a flexible linkage, said centering member is a pulley
through which said flexible linkage is reeved, and said pulley at
least one of: lies in a plane that contains said central axis and
has an axis of rotation perpendicular to said plane, has an axis of
rotation parallel to the central axis, is a tangent pivot tension
pulley, and is a fixed plane tension pulley.
38. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 26, wherein said
linkage is a flexible linkage, said centering member is a pulley
through which said flexible linkage is reeved, and said pulley at
least one of: lies in a plane that contains said central axis and
has an axis of rotation perpendicular to said plane, has an axis of
rotation parallel to the central axis, is a tangent pivot tension
pulley, and is a fixed plane tension pulley.
39. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 37, further
comprising at least one other pulley through which said flexible
linkage is reeved intermediate said pulley and said apparatus
providing adjustable resistance, where said other pulley is one of
a redirectioning pulley and a reserve pulley.
40. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 38, further
comprising at least one other pulley through which said flexible
linkage is reeved intermediate said pulley and said apparatus
providing adjustable resistance, where said other pulley is one of
a redirectioning pulley and a reserve pulley.
41. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 27, wherein at
least one of: adjustable resistance to movement of said other user
interface by a user is provided by the same apparatus providing
adjustable resistance to movement of the user interface by a user,
adjustable resistance to movement of said other user interface by a
user is provided by an other apparatus providing adjustable
resistance to movement of the other user interface by a user, said
other guide member is an other arcuate guide, said other arcuate
path and said other guide member are substantially coplanar, and
said other user interface member comprises an other rigid arm, an
other central axis of said other arcuate path intersects said other
ball joint, said other guide member is an other arcuate guide, said
other arcuate path and said other guide member lie in spaced
substantially parallel planes, and said other user interface member
comprises one of an other rigid arm, and an other flexible member
with an other free handle at its second end forming the other user
interface, said other user interface member depends from an other
revolving arc mounted to said other guide member, an other linkage
is intermediate and forms part of an other operative connection
between said other user interface and apparatus providing
adjustable resistance, said other linkage being routed through an
other centering member proximate said other central axis, and an
other linkage is intermediate and forms part of an operative
connection between said other user interface and apparatus
providing adjustable resistance, and said other linkage is arranged
and routed so as to maintain the same length when said other user
interface is repositioned along said other arcuate path.
42. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
user interface is one of a handle, and a forearm interface
member.
43. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 42, wherein the
user interface is a handle, and at least one of: the handle is
adapted for rotation around at least one of a first pivot axis, a
second pivot axis transverse to the first pivot axis, and a third
pivot axis transverse to the first and second pivot axes, and the
handle is offset and arranged to avoid user contact with structural
elements of the user interface and rotating handle.
44. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein said
interface member is a rigid arm, which rigid arm is pivotably
mounted to said apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a
ball joint via its first end so as to define an axis of rotation
for said interface member, which axis of rotation for said
interface member one of: intersects the ball joint, and is
transverse to an axis intersecting the ball joint, and is parallel
to the central axis.
45. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 28, wherein said
revolving arc is formed as part of a continuous loop, and wherein
at least one of: a portion of said continuous loop extends from
said revolving arc to form a portion of said boom, and a portion of
said continuous loop extends from said revolving arc to form a
portion of said boom, with a central region of said boom being
defined by the two sides of said loop forming said boom, and said
linkage is routed through said central region.
46. The apparatus for exercising muscles associated with a ball
joint or ball joints of the human body of claim 21, wherein the
central axis of said arcuate path intersects said ball joint and is
coaxial with one of: the x-axis of the shoulder joint, the y-axis
of the shoulder joint, or the z-axis of the shoulder joint.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This continuing application including divisional claims is
based on and claims priority through my non-provisional
continuation-in-part application titled "Multi-Axis Resistance
Exercise Devices and Systems" (Ser. No. 12/584,197), filed Sep. 1,
2009, which said continuation-in-part application is based on and
claims priority through my non-provisional continuing application
titled "Multi-Axis Resistance Exercise Device" (Ser. No.
11/899,463), now U.S. Pat. No. 7,601,106, filed Sep. 6, 2007, which
said continuing application was based on and claims priority
through my non-provisional application titled "Multi-Axis
Resistance Exercise Device" (Ser. No. 10/758,870), now U.S. Pat.
No. 7,341,546, filed Jan. 16, 2004, which said non-provisional
application and patent was based on and claimed priority to my
provisional application titled "Multi-Axis Resistance Exercise
Device" (Ser. No. 60/441,708), filed Jan. 21, 2003, the full
disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY
[0002] This invention is generally related to exercise devices for
muscles surrounding the ball-and-socket joints (or ball joints) of
a user, and more particularly, to weight resistance exercise
machines for the muscles surrounding the shoulder joints of a
user.
[0003] The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body,
with 360 degrees of motion in circumduction, and 180 degrees of
motion in all simple radial planes of movement of the joint. The
three dimensional range of movement of the shoulder can be mapped
as a virtual hemisphere, centered at the glenohumeral joint.
[0004] The remarkable range of motion of the shoulder is made
possible by minimal static stabilization of the joint. The static
stabilizers include bone and non-elastic capsuloligamentous
structures. Since the joint capsule and ligaments surrounding the
joint are redundant in length, they provide restraint and stability
only at wide ranges of motion. The bone structure of the shoulder
joint consists of the head of the humerus which glides or rolls in
the narrow and shallow glenoid fossa of the scapula. The stability
of the glenohumeral or shoulder joint is comparable to the
stability of a golf ball (i.e. the humeral head) resting on a golf
tee (i.e. the glenoid process).
[0005] The biomechanical tradeoff for the tremendous range of
motion of the shoulder is minimal static stability. So the shoulder
is the most mobile joint, and mutually, it is the least stable
joint in the human body as well.
[0006] Enhanced dynamic stability, provided by the surrounding
musculature (i.e. the dynamic stabilizers), compensates for minimal
static stability in the shoulder. From the side view, with the
humerus at 90 degrees of abduction, we see a 360 degree radial
array of muscles and muscle fibers originating on the trunk,
scapula, and clavicle, spanning the shoulder complex, converging
and inserting circumferentially into the proximal humerus. Each
radial plane of muscle fibers can be recruited to move the shoulder
in the coplanar plane of motion. This radial array of muscle fibers
about the shoulder also provides coordinated stabilizing radial
traction forces throughout the range of motion, in any or all
directions simultaneously, for maintaining optimal dynamic
alignment of the joint. Therefore, the 360 degree radial array of
muscle fibers surrounding the shoulder is the basis for both
movement in all radial planes of motion, and for stabilization of
the joint in any direction, position, plane, or part of its range
of motion. The unique and extensive reliance on radial musculature
for 360-degree-motion and stability means that strength training
has the potential to provide more effective performance enhancement
to the shoulder than any other joint.
[0007] The musculature and nervous system respond to training with
specific adaptation to specific imposed demand. Training in any
specific plane of motion stimulates an increase in strength,
stability, and therefore performance in that specific plane of
training, with little enhancement of performance in other planes of
musculature and motion.
[0008] Therefore, in order to optimize strength and stability in
multiple planes of motion, the shoulder must be strength trained in
multiple planes of movement. For ideal performance gains, for
optimal restoration of function after injury, and for maximum
protection from instability, the shoulder should be trained in an
exponential number of planes of motion throughout its 360 degree
radial array of planes of motion about multiple axes.
[0009] Six out of ten strength training machines target the
shoulder because of the many planes of resisted motion that must be
implemented for adequate shoulder training and injury
rehabilitation. Theoretically, one should be able to exercise the
muscle fibers in every conceivable plane of shoulder motion.
However, exercise machines of the past, including the most
sophisticated rehabilitation and strength testing devices, have
never been capable of practically reproducing the remarkable number
of planes of motion of the shoulder. In fact, most shoulder
exercise machines are manufactured to build strength in only one or
a few standard planes of motion.
[0010] Since most prior art strength training machines (and lines
of machines) permit exercise in only one or a few planes of motion,
specific adaptation (i.e. enhanced strength and stability) occurs
only in the same limited number of planes. On past shoulder
strength training equipment, the angular distances are large
between the conventional, standard radial planes of training. This
means performance carryover between these planes of training is
minimal. When training is limited to these few conventional planes
of exercise, over-training of the musculature occurs in the
conventional planes of resistance exercise, and under-training
occurs in planes oblique to the conventional planes of exercise. In
this way, repetitive training in a limited number of fixed planes
of resistance by the prior art paradigm, builds asymmetric strength
in the musculature surrounding the shoulder. Asymmetric strength
predisposes the joint to instability and injury.
[0011] Consequently, training with past equipment leaves the
shoulder with less than optimal strength and stability gains, and
vulnerable to injury. The limited number of planes of resistance
provided by the prior art is a reflection of the unwritten (and
erroneous) prior art paradigm that resistance exercise performed
through a few standard planes of motion is adequate for building
optimal multi-planar strength and stability in the shoulder.
[0012] Past exercise machines and equipment, though prolific,
employ similar past methods of strength training and assessment.
For the purpose of this discussion, the four most important
strength training and assessment modalities in use today are: (1)
free weights; (2) electromechanical strength training and
assessment devices; (3) fulcrum-flexible-linkage strength training
machines; and (4) cable functional strength training machines.
[0013] Free weights are one of the oldest and simplest tools for
strength training and assessment. Free weights are most effective
when lifted vertically in a straight line or plane, particularly in
compound joint movement. As with all modes of exercise, free
weights have limitations. A misconception in the industry is that
free weights provide a more functional form of resistance than
machines. For example, studies have noted kinetic and kinematic
similarities between certain ballistic free weight lifting
techniques and sprinting jumping activities. But utilizing these
strength training techniques has not been shown to directly improve
functional performance of similar and dissimilar athletic movements
in controlled longitudinal studies any more effectively than
conventional techniques. The reason for this is that training has
very specific effects. Strength training builds strength only in
the specific plane and speed of motion of training. And because
strength training does not precisely replicate functional, complex
multi-planar movement (e.g. skilled athletic movements), it cannot
directly enhance performance of functional, complex multi-planar
movement.
[0014] Shoulder press exercises with free weights, as another
example, do not closely simulate any true functional movement,
skill, or ballistic motion; nor do free weights closely simulate
dynamically varying forces encountered in the real world, any more
so than when performing press exercises with other modes of
resistance training. So there is little or no greater direct effect
on performance when shoulder resistance exercise is performed with
free weights as opposed to machines.
[0015] In critical comparison to training with presently available
machines, training an individual in the skills of lifting free
weights has only marginal (if any) added effect on functional
performance enhancement for the vast majority of real-world
skilled, precision, ballistic, impact, and/or high-performance
movements.
[0016] Further, in terms of strength assessment, past standard
methods do not provide comprehensive physiologic, multi-plane
strength data. For example, the standard measure of upper body
strength, especially in power sports, has long been the standard
horizontal chest or bench press utilizing free weights. (In
practice, this frequently results in a misplaced emphasis on
building strength in a single plane of motion as the primary goal
of shoulder strength training.) Although it is an expedient way of
measuring overall strength in a single plane of movement, the bench
press does not accurately measure functional strength or stability.
A more accurate way to measure overall functional strength and
functional stability of the shoulder is to assess strength in
multiple planes of radial motion. But there are few strength
assessment devices specifically designed for assessing radial
strength of the shoulder in multiple planes.
[0017] Strength testing devices manufactured today are designed by
the model originally established by Cybex, Biodex, and Chattecx
active dynamometers, brand names well-known in the strength
training and injury rehabilitation industry. These are
electromechanical strength training and assessment devices with
microcomputer-based feedback and strength evaluation systems. These
machines were originally designed to assess knee strength and
angular motion in a single plane of movement. Although these
machines can be adapted to assess shoulder strength, like free
weights, they are not practical tools for assessing strength in
multiple planes of motion.
[0018] Machines that employ fulcrum-flexible-linkage resistance
mechanisms (such as Nautilus and Cybex International machines)
provide full and equal tangential resistance through the full arc
and range of motion in the plane of exercise. This makes these
machines significantly more effective than free weights for
isolated resistance training (such as biceps curls), or for any
exercise involving an arc of movement. This type of machine can
provide isotonic or dynamic variable resistance exercise (e.g. with
variable cammed pulleys). These are proven-effective strength
building resistance mechanisms and are advantages that free weights
cannot provide in an arc of exercise. The major disadvantage of
past conventional fulcrum-flexible-linkage machines is that they
cannot provide resistance exercise in more than one or a few planes
of motion, as discussed previously.
[0019] A well-known exercise method called functional training is
intended to enhance strength in functional and athletic movements.
Cable linkage functional training is performed with machines
utilizing an unconstrained user interface (i.e. handhold) directly
attached to the end of a weighted flexible linkage or cable. These
devices are also called free cable devices, and are descendents of
the well-known cable-cross or cable-column type apparatus. Cable
functional training equipment (such as that manufactured by Free
Motion Fitness and others) operates in a similar manner to past
cable strength training equipment, and therefore, is subject to the
same limitations. Because of the mechanics of the
handhold-cable-pulley mechanism utilized in these machines,
cable-cross and free cable functional training cannot provide full
and equal tangential resistance through a full arc of motion of
exercise, as can fulcrum-flexible-linkage machines. Additionally,
past cable machines cannot provide precise alignment and
stabilization of the trunk and shoulder in an exponential number of
planes of exercise (for precise, reliable targeting and isolation
of the exponential planes of muscle action across the joint).
[0020] There is disagreement about the influence that any and all
forms of strength training may have on injury prevention, specific
skills, and sports performance. Most in the industry agree that
strength training indirectly improves performance by enhancing
joint strength and stability. The idea that strength training can
directly enhance actual functional performance is controversial at
best.
[0021] Generally, strength and stability gains from resistance
training do not directly enhance performance. The strength and
stability gains resulting from resistance training must be
transferred indirectly to functional movement through the process
of integration. Integration can be conceptualized as the process of
transferring strength, proprioception, muscular coordination, and
stability gains from simple, less functional movements, to more
complex movements. Pattern integration can also be described as the
transfer of enhanced simple pattern neuromuscular function (e.g. as
a result of resistance training) into more complex purposeful
movement patterns resulting in true functional performance
enhancement.
[0022] Training in multiple, simple, radial neuromuscular patterns
and planes of motion about a joint increases strength and stability
more effectively than training in a few fixed planes provided by
the prior art. The advantage of resistance training in simple
patterns and planes of motion is that the resulting neuromuscular
gains are easily integrated indirectly into functional movement,
with little or no adverse effect on performance.
[0023] It is unlikely that one can directly improve athletic
performance by replicating a complex athletic movement using free
weights or cable functional training machines. Because the plane of
resistance provided by these modes of exercise cannot coincide
precisely with that of any real-world skill or sport movement, and
because the resistance vector cannot replicate the full and equal
tangential resistance or velocity throughout the full functional
arc and range of motion, this equipment has limited positive direct
effect on performance. Functional and athletic motion is largely
too variable, complex, and/or unpredictable for machines or any
resistance training method to duplicate, including free weights and
cable machines. If the combined dynamic training variables of a
complex strength training movement do not exactly replicate the
actual movement, the training may even be counter-productive in
terms of performance enhancement. This may be secondary to
interference with established complex neural patterns of movement.
Attempting to replicate a particular complex functional motion with
strength training does not result in a direct improvement in
performance because of the specificity and complexity of the
neuromuscular mechanism of movement and the mechanical limitations
of strength training equipment. Thus, there is a clear need for
strength training and strength testing equipment that provides
resisted motion in the 360 degree radial array of simple planes of
motion of the shoulder and other joints about multiple axes, as
provided by the present invention.
[0024] The present invention provides important advantages over the
prior art. First, this invention provides radial, exponential
multiplane resistance exercise for both compound and isolated
resisted motion of the shoulders or other joints of a user.
Resistance exercise can be performed in all planes of the 360
degree radial array of planes of motion of a joint about multiple
axes. Second, it can provide full and equal tangential resistance
through the full arc and range of motion of exercise. Third, the
present invention provides independent user interfaces for
simulating functional movement. Fourth, the invention provides
industry standard selectorized, electromechanical, and/or other
resistance mechanisms or combinations of mechanisms. Fifth, it
provides multiple-point or polygonal stabilization and restraint
(e.g. triangular, rectangular, decagonal, and/or circular base of
stabilization) of the boom and drive assembly, thereby providing
multiple-point stabilization for the axis of rotation of the user
interface(s) which pivot on the drive assembly. This provides a
very stable platform through which symmetric and asymmetric forces
generated by the user are transferred. Sixth, the present invention
provides a new evidence-based paradigm for the use of this line of
devices that includes a method for performing exercise in an
exponential number of planes of motion, as well as a method for the
transfer or integration of nonspecific strength training gains into
functional movement.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the x, y and z axes in relation to the bones of a human shoulder
joint.
[0026] FIG. 1b provides schematic perspective view illustrating a
previously patented embodiment of the invention.
[0027] FIG. 1c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in relation to a
seated person positioned for use of the z-axis embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 1d provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) a schematic side view (from the weight stack
side), a schematic overhead view, and a schematic front view of the
preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in relation to a
seated person positioned for use of the z-axis embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 1e provides a second schematic perspective view
illustrating the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in
relation to a seated person positioned for use of the z-axis
embodiment, and provides further insight into flexible linkage
routing.
[0030] FIG. 1f provides a third schematic perspective view
illustrating the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in
relation to a seated person positioned for use of the z-axis
embodiment, and provides further insight into flexible linkage
routing.
[0031] FIG. 1g provides a fourth schematic perspective view
illustrating the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in
relation to a seated person positioned for use of the z-axis
embodiment, and provides further insight into the wide diameter
revolving arc roller system with decagon roller pattern and the
range of positions of the revolving assembly.
[0032] FIG. 1h provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
an alternative fixed sagittal plane tensioning pulley system
mounted on a generic boom.
[0033] FIG. 1i1 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a revolving user interface handle for z-axis, compound, and other
embodiments of the invention.
[0034] FIG. 1i2 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the revolving user interface handle for z-axis and compound
embodiments of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 1i3 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the revolving user interface handle for z-axis and compound
embodiments of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 1i4 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the revolving user interface handle for z-axis and compound
embodiments of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 1j provides a pair of schematic perspective views
illustrating the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in
use for multiple plane pushing exercises, with said views each
illustrating a seated person positioned for use of the z-axis
embodiment, with said views having their respective user interface
assemblies in different positions, and further illustrating start
(S) and finish (F) exercise positions for said user interface
assemblies.
[0038] FIG. 1k provides a pair of schematic perspective views
illustrating the preferred z-axis embodiment of the invention in
use for multiple plane pulling exercises, with said views each
illustrating a seated person positioned for use of the z-axis
embodiment, with said views having their respective user interface
assemblies in different positions, and further illustrating start
(S) and finish (F) exercise positions for said user interface
assemblies.
[0039] FIG. 2 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating a
z-axis/multi-axis embodiment of the invention employing a
differential drive instead of the flexible linkage differential
pulley system used in the preferred embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 3a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating a
concentric drive compound selectorized multi-axis embodiment where
the z-axis of the shoulder motion of a user is collinear with the
revolving axis of the revolving assembly of the device.
[0041] FIG. 3b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) a schematic side view (from the weight stack
side), a schematic overhead view, and a schematic front view of the
compound selectorized multi-axis embodiment illustrated in FIG.
3a.
[0042] FIG. 3c provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) a schematic perspective view and a schematic
overhead view of the z-axis embodiment of the present invention
employing the concentric drive mechanism in FIG. 3a.
[0043] FIG. 4 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating a
compound selectorized multi-axis embodiment employing a
differential drive instead of the flexible linkage differential
pulley system employed by the compound concentric drive
embodiment.
[0044] FIG. 5 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating a
compound selectorized multi-axis embodiment employing a free
flexible linkage such that there is no rigid user interface that is
moved as a lever for actuating the resistance mechanism.
[0045] FIG. 6a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the use of a horizontal outrigger boom stabilizer with an
embodiment of the invention.
[0046] FIG. 6b provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the use of a radial stabilizer mechanism with an embodiment of the
invention.
[0047] FIG. 6c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the use of a short radial stabilizer mechanism with an embodiment
of the invention.
[0048] FIG. 7A1a provides (beginning on the left and proceeding to
the right) a schematic perspective view and a schematic side view
of an embodiment characterized by a single revolving arc with an
equilateral triangular support roller pattern.
[0049] FIG. 7A1b provides (beginning on the left and proceeding to
the right) a schematic perspective view and a schematic side view
of an embodiment characterized by a single revolving arc as
illustrated in FIG. 7A1a, and also featuring support spokes and an
offset center pivot mechanism.
[0050] FIG. 7A2 provides (beginning on the left and proceeding to
the right) a schematic perspective view and a schematic side view
of an embodiment characterized by a single revolving arc with an
equilateral triangular support roller pattern as illustrated in
FIG. 7A1b, and also featuring a bearing post. (Center pivot
Mechanism).
[0051] FIG. 7A3 provides a schematic perspective view and a
schematic side view of an embodiment characterized by a single
revolving arc with an equilateral triangular support roller pattern
similar to those previously illustrated, but featuring an arcuate
guide that is not a full circle.
[0052] FIG. 7A4 provides a schematic perspective view of an
embodiment characterized by bilateral wide diameter revolving arcs
flanking the user station.
[0053] FIG. 7B1 provides a schematic perspective view of an
embodiment characterized by double revolving arc and roller
mechanism employing a radial stabilizer.
[0054] FIG. 7B2 provides a schematic perspective view of an
embodiment characterized by double revolving arc employing a free
flexible linkage mechanism, an outrigger boom stabilizer and an
offset concentric parallel arcuate guide.
[0055] FIG. 7B3 provides a schematic perspective view of an
embodiment having a double revolving arc mechanism with user
interfaces mounted on either side of the revolving arcs.
[0056] FIG. 7B4 provides a schematic perspective view of an
embodiment having a pair of double revolving arc mechanisms with
one being used for lateral stabilization.
[0057] FIG. 8a provides a schematic side view of the preferred
embodiment illustrating a decagonal array of conveying/structural
support elements.
[0058] FIG. 8b provides a schematic side view of an embodiment
illustrating an equilateral rectangular array of
conveying/structural support elements.
[0059] FIG. 8c provides a schematic side view of an embodiment
having a double revolving arc mechanism with a linear array of
conveying/structural support elements.
[0060] FIG. 9 provides (beginning on the left and proceeding to the
right) schematic perspective and side views of a compound lower
body exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 10a provides a schematic perspective illustration of a
y-axis embodiment of the present invention.
[0062] FIG. 10b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views of the
y-axis embodiment the present invention.
[0063] FIG. 10c provides a schematic top view of the y-axis
embodiment of the present invention illustrates some of the
potential number of planes of exercise that are possible on this
device (in edge-on orientation).
[0064] FIG. 10d provides a schematic bottom perspective view of the
left revolving assembly structure of the y-axis embodiment of the
present invention, providing a detailed view of the narrow diameter
revolving arc roller system with decagonal roller pattern and a
range of positions of the revolving assembly.
[0065] FIG. 10e provides a schematic perspective view of the left
revolving assembly structure of the y-axis embodiment of the
present invention, providing a detailed view of the flexible
linkage tensioning/routing mechanism and the range of the user
interface.
[0066] FIG. 11a provides a schematic perspective view of the
diagonal motion shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0067] FIG. 11b provides a schematic perspective view of the
diagonal motion shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention, providing further
detail with respect thereto.
[0068] FIG. 11c provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views of the
diagonal motion shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 12a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the X-axis isolated shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] FIG. 12b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views of the
X-axis isolated shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0071] FIG. 12c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the right side decagonal roller pattern of the revolving
assembly/roller assembly of the X-axis isolated shoulder resistance
selectorized multi-axis exercise embodiment of the present
invention.
[0072] FIG. 12d provides a schematic front view of the X-axis
isolated shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis exercise
embodiment of the present invention, providing further detail with
regard to planes of motion.
[0073] FIG. 12e provides a second schematic front view of the
X-axis isolated shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis
exercise embodiment of the present invention, providing further
detail with regard to planes of motion.
[0074] FIG. 12f provides a third schematic front view of the X-axis
isolated shoulder resistance selectorized multi-axis exercise
embodiment of the present invention, providing further detail with
regard to planes of motion.
[0075] FIG. 13a provides a schematic perspective view of a narrow
diameter revolving arc shoulder rotation multi-axis resistance
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0076] FIG. 13b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views of the
shoulder rotation multi-axis resistance exercise embodiment of FIG.
13a.
[0077] FIG. 13c provides (beginning in the upper left corner and
proceeding clockwise) a schematic perspective view, top view, back
view, and side view providing further detail with regard to user
interface range in the shoulder rotation multi-axis resistance
exercise embodiment of FIG. 13a.
[0078] FIG. 13d provides a schematic perspective view showing a
start (S) and finish (F) position for the shoulder rotation
multi-axis resistance exercise embodiment of FIG. 13a.
[0079] FIG. 14A1 provides a schematic perspective view of a center
pivot boom design for a shoulder rotation multi-axis resistance
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0080] FIG. 14A2 provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) a schematic perspective view, top view, and
frontal view providing further detail with regard to user interface
range in the shoulder rotation multi-axis resistance exercise
embodiment of FIG. 14A1.
[0081] FIG. 14B1 provides a schematic perspective view of a center
pivot boom design for a shoulder rotation y-axis/multi-axis
resistance exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0082] FIG. 14B2 provides (beginning in the upper right corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic perspective, side, frontal, and top
views of the center pivot boom design for a shoulder rotation
y-axis/multi-axis resistance exercise embodiment of FIG. 14B1.
[0083] FIG. 15a provides a schematic perspective view of a center
pivot design for a bicep/tricep selectorized multi-axis resistance
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0084] FIG. 15b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views of the
center pivot design for a bicep/tricep selectorized multi-axis
resistance exercise embodiment of FIG. 15a.
[0085] FIG. 15c provides a schematic perspective view of the center
pivot design for a bicep/tricep selectorized multi-axis resistance
exercise embodiment of FIG. 15a, with further detail related to
user interface range, including possible start (S) and finish (F)
positions.
[0086] FIG. 16a provides a schematic perspective view of a
multi-axis narrow diameter revolving arc compound shoulder
resistance exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0087] FIG. 16b provides (beginning in the upper left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic perspective, top, frontal and side
views of the multi-axis narrow diameter revolving arc compound
shoulder resistance exercise embodiment of FIG. 16a.
[0088] FIG. 17a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a center pivot design for a multi-axis compound shoulder resistance
exercise embodiment of the present invention.
[0089] FIG. 17b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top, and frontal views
illustrating the center pivot design for a multi-axis compound
shoulder resistance exercise embodiment of FIG. 17a.
[0090] FIG. 18a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller assembly for
use in embodiments of the invention.
[0091] FIG. 18b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top, and frontal views
illustrating the continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller
assembly of FIG. 18a.
[0092] FIG. 18c provides schematic perspective views illustrating
the continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller assembly of
FIG. 18a without braces and spokes (1) and with braces and spokes
(2).
[0093] FIG. 18d provides schematic perspective views illustrating
possible variations (1) and (2) of the continuous loop revolving
arc and boom with roller assembly of FIG. 18a.
[0094] FIG. 18e provides schematic perspective views illustrating
further possible variations (1), (2), and (3) of the continuous
loop revolving arc and boom with roller assembly of FIG. 18a.
[0095] FIG. 18f provides schematic perspective views illustrating
further possible distal configurations (1) and (2) for the
continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller assembly of FIG.
18a.
[0096] FIG. 18g provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller assembly of
FIG. 18a applied with an X-axis boom.
[0097] FIG. 18h provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views
illustrating the continuous loop revolving arc and boom with roller
assembly of FIG. 18a applied with an X-axis boom.
[0098] FIG. 19a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a compact free flexible linkage multi-axis exercise embodiment of
the present invention having twin unilateral narrow diameter
revolving arcs.
[0099] FIG. 19b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top and frontal views further
illustrating the compact free flexible linkage multi-axis exercise
embodiment of FIG. 19a.
[0100] FIG. 19c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a compact Z-axis/multi-axis exercise embodiment of the present
invention having polygonal bases of support at right angles to each
other.
[0101] FIG. 19d provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top, and frontal views
further illustrating the compact Z-axis/multi-axis exercise
embodiment of FIG. 19c.
[0102] FIG. 20a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
an embodiment of the invention where a revolving arc structure is
captured, supported and held in position (circular arc within
circular tube) by a supporting arcuate tubular supporting element
or guide.
[0103] FIG. 20b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top, and frontal views
further illustrating the telescoping revolving arc exercise
embodiment of FIG. 20a.
[0104] FIG. 21a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a Z-axis/multi-axis exercise embodiment of the present invention
utilizing independent electromechanical resistance.
[0105] FIG. 21b provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a Z-axis/multi-axis exercise embodiment of the present invention
utilizing electromechanical resistance with differential drive.
[0106] FIG. 21c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
a shoulder diagonal multi-axis exercise embodiment of the present
invention utilizing electromechanical resistance.
[0107] FIG. 21d provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic side, top, and frontal views
further illustrating the shoulder diagonal multi-axis exercise
embodiment of FIG. 21c.
[0108] FIG. 22 provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
an infinite revolving axis exercise embodiment of the present
invention utilizing electromechanical resistance.
[0109] FIG. 23a provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
another infinite revolving axis/multi-axis exercise embodiment of
the present invention having a revolving arc that revolves on a
line radial to the geometric arc of the revolving arc.
[0110] FIG. 23b provides (beginning in the lower left corner and
proceeding clockwise) schematic frontal, top, and side views
illustrating the infinite revolving axis/multi-axis exercise
embodiment of FIG. 23a.
[0111] FIG. 23c provides a schematic perspective view illustrating
the infinite revolving axis/multi-axis exercise embodiment of FIG.
23a, with further detail regarding the range of drive assembly
crawler positions.
DESCRIPTION
[0112] The present invention is a multiple axis (multi-axis)
exercise device providing a user interface (or user interfaces)
with a trans-locatable axis (or axes) of rotation for exercise, but
especially a trans-locatable axis of rotation that intersects and
or is coaxial with (i.e. in collinear or parallel alignment with)
the active axis of rotation of the joint trained, regardless of the
plane or axis of rotation of exercise (e.g. collinear with the axis
of rotation of the elbow in the bicep/tricep embodiment or parallel
to the z-axis as in the compound embodiment). Alternatively, the
trans-locatable axis of rotation of exercise may be adjustable or
dynamically variable.
[0113] The multi-axis exercise device concept may be incorporated
into a series of exercise units. Each unit can provide isolated
and/or compound exercise about a unique axis of potentially
infinite radial planes of joint motion. (Alternatively, some units
may provide a potentially infinite number of planes or axes of
rotation of exercise to the shoulder or other joints in a parallel
or other non-radial array.)
[0114] The primary axes of infinite radial planes of motion of the
shoulder are the conventional Cartesian axes, illustrated in FIG.
1a. In the preferred embodiment, resistance exercise is provided in
all planes of motion radial to or passing through the z-axis of the
shoulder. (FIG. 1b. shows a previous embodiment of a z-axis device
as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,341,546, and in continuing
application Ser. No. 11/899,463 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,601,106)).
Most planes of motion provided by embodiments described in this
disclosure are radial to or pass through one of the conventional
Cartesian axes, but the present invention may provide resistance
exercise in planes radial to any axis passing through the shoulder
joint. The concepts applied to shoulder motion in this
specification can be applied to other joints and parts of the body
as well.
[0115] The multi-axis exercise device concept is a sub-concept of
the multiple, exponential, or infinite plane concept of resistance
training discussed in the background above, and is an integral part
of this disclosure. Comprehensive multiple plane resistance
training is provided exclusively by the present invention, and is
based on two training principles. The first principle is to perform
one set of resistance exercise per plane of exercise, and to
perform resistance exercise in an exponential or infinite number of
planes over time. The second principle is to transfer or integrate
neuromuscular gains into functional movement through training in a
sequential progression of exercises from simple patterns or planes,
advancing to more complex movements, and finally to exercises
utilizing true functional movements.
1. Z-Axis/Multi-Axis Shoulder Exercise Device
[0116] FIGS. 1c-k illustrate the preferred z-axis embodiment of the
present invention. This embodiment is named for the shoulder z-axis
of a user positioned in the user station 30 of the machine, which
said z-axis is aligned in (or approximately in) a collinear
relationship with the revolving axis 205 of the machine. In this
embodiment, the user interface axes of rotation 200, 201 intersect
the corresponding shoulders of the user (as in most embodiments
disclosed herein), and intersect and/or are perpendicular to the
revolving axis 205. This embodiment provides isolated shoulder
resistance exercise in any of the infinite radial planes of motion
passing through the z-axis of shoulder movement. In the art,
isolated shoulder resistance exercise is defined as training in
which shoulder joint movement is isolated, with no concurrent
angular movement of the distal elbow joint. Examples of isolated
shoulder resistance exercise devices are butterfly machines and
rear deltoid machines.
[0117] Turning to FIGS. 1c-f in detail, the exercise machine of the
present invention (designated generally as apparatus 10) comprises
a base 12 adapted to rest on a supporting surface. A vertical
support which also serves the function of a stationary arcuate
guide 14 is secured to the base. A resistance mechanism, such as a
selectorized weight stack 16, is also secured to the base or frame.
Weight stack 16 is operationally connected via a flexible linkage
67 (routed through pulleys) to user interface assemblies 20a and
20b, providing resistance to motion thereof.
[0118] Substantially and/or repositionably mounted on the base 12
and/or on the arcuate guide 14 is a user station/seat 30. The user
station/seat 30 has a horizontal component 34, and a vertical back
36 adapted to support a user in a sitting position facing towards
or away from the back 36 for use of the apparatus of the present
invention. Said user station/seat 30 may have vertical, lateral,
and forward-aft adjustment capability. User station/seat 30 may
also have vertical axis rotational adjustment capability,
permitting user station/seat 30 to swivel to face either forward or
backward direction on the preferred embodiment. Vertical axis
swiveling may be used to advantage for positioning user
station/seat 30 and the user at any angle in relation to the user
interface 20a, 20b in certain other embodiments of the present
invention as well.
[0119] Turning to the active or working portions of the present
invention, the exercise machine 10 comprises a stationary arcuate
guide 14 which is generally formed from metal such as steel
rectangular tubing. The centerline of the circular arc of the
arcuate guide 14 is collinear with the revolving axis 205 of the
revolving assembly 15, and is collinear or coincident with the
z-axis of motion of the shoulder(s) of a user seated in the user
station in the preferred embodiment.
[0120] The stationary arcuate guide 14 is the structural support of
the revolving functional components of the machine. In the
preferred embodiment, revolving arcs 63 are dependent and
co-revolving (i.e. substantially fixed to one another by way of
boom 64), are parallel and apposed, and designated right and left
63a, 63b. Revolving arcs 63a, 63b are concentric with, and are
mounted on corresponding right and left sides of arcuate guide 14,
by way of rollers 62, as illustrated in FIG. 1g. Therefore,
revolving arcs 63a, 63b are concentric with (and revolve about) the
revolving axis 205 and the z-axis of the shoulder(s) of a user
positioned in the user station/seat 30. The functional components
of the machine are fixed to the revolving arcs 63a, 63b.
[0121] In the preferred embodiment, revolving arcs 63a, 63b are
made from metal tubing or channel having cross-sectional or inner
dimensions and shape congruent with the cross-sectional, surface,
and/or outer dimensions and shape of rollers 62. Rollers 62 are
mounted on both planar sides of the arcuate guide 14 in a mirrored
polygonal and/or circular pattern, with decagonal pattern
illustrated in FIGS. 1g and 8a. Said polygonal and/or circular
pattern has a diameter corresponding to the diameter of revolving
arcs 63a, 63b in the preferred embodiment. Centerlines of rotation
of rollers 62 are oriented parallel to the revolving axis 205 in
the preferred embodiment. Rollers 62 may have axes of rotation that
are radially oriented in relation to revolving axis 205 or
otherwise aligned, depending on the roller system employed and the
requirements of the specific embodiment of the invention. Rollers
62 roll within the confines of congruent inner surfaces of channel
of revolving arcs 63a, 63b. Thus, when revolving arcs 63a, 63b are
in functional position as shown, rollers 62 provide a "gliding
path" along or over which revolving arcs 63a, 63b glide, roll, or
revolve about the revolving axis 205. Because of the width of the
diameter of the revolving arcs 63a, 63b in this embodiment, this is
referred to as a wide diameter revolving assembly. (Although a
conventional roller/channel system is described, others that may be
employed include a follower/roller, roller/bearing, roller/rail,
mini-rail, glider/slider or other roller or conveying systems).
[0122] Substantially fixed to revolving arcs 63a, 63b is an
overhead or drive assembly 11, along with an adjustably mounted
revolving counterweight 13, which revolving counterweight 13 is
diametrically opposed to overhead or drive assembly 11 on revolving
arcs 63a, 63b. Revolving arcs 63a, 63b, overhead or drive assembly
11, and revolving counterweight 13 all revolve as a unit about
revolving axis 205, and together are termed the revolving assembly
15. Revolving counterweight 13 has similar mass to overhead or
drive assembly 11, and is (or can be) fixed in a diametrically
opposed position on revolving arcs 63a, 63b in relation to overhead
or drive assembly 11. This results in a buoyancy-neutral revolving
assembly 15.
[0123] Overhead or drive assembly 11 is comprised in its basic form
by: a boom 64 (with supporting elements), and right and left user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b. User interface assemblies 20 provide
isolated shoulder resistance in all planes radial to the z-axis,
and are designated right and left 20a and 20b. Right and left user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b are comprised by right and left:
lifting pulleys 65a, 65b, user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b,
user interface levers 23a, 23b, user interface handles 28a, 28b,
and a user interface spring pin and index plate assembly (not
shown). (Said user interface spring pin and index plate assembly is
employed for adjusting starting angle of user interfaces and for
limiting range of motion of exercise, as on many strength training
and rehabilitation devices of, and well known in, the prior
art).
[0124] Mounted by way of bearings on boom 64 are right and left
user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b. User interface drive shafts
21a, 21b have fixed axes of rotation 200 and 201 in relation to
boom 64 in the preferred embodiment (although user interface drive
shafts 21a, 21b and their axes 200 and 201 can be adjustable
angularly and spatially in relation to each other and in relation
to boom 64 in this and other embodiments). Axes of rotation 200 and
201 of user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b are: (1) separated by a
distance (which can be adjustable) that is equal to or
approximately shoulder width; (2) approximately parallel to one
another; and (3) axis of rotation 200 and 201 of each user
interface drive shaft 21a, 21b intersects the corresponding
shoulder joint, and is perpendicular to the z-axis of motion of the
shoulders of a user positioned in the user station/seat 30,
regardless of the angle of the plane of exercise.
[0125] User interface levers 23a, 23b are concentrically mounted on
corresponding user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b and can revolve
freely about user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b. User interface
levers 23a, 23b are disengageably attached to and drive
corresponding user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b by way of
engagement of user interface spring pins into holes in user
interface index plates, as is taught in the prior art. This type of
spring pin and index plate mechanism can be employed to adjust the
starting angle for all user interfaces on drive shafts in these
embodiments. When user interface spring pins are engaged in user
interface index plates, a user exercises by moving or rotating
right and left user interface assemblies 20a, 20b about
corresponding right and left user interface axis of rotation 200
and 201. This rotates right and left user interface drive shafts
21a, 21b. Right and left user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b are
concentrically attached to and drive corresponding right and left
lifting or drive pulleys 65a, 65b. Lifting or drive pulleys 65a,
65b each wind a flexible linkage 67.
[0126] Referring to FIGS. 1c-f, flexible linkage 67 is routed from
right and left lifting or drive pulleys 65a, 65b through
corresponding right and left boom redirectioning pulleys 2a, 2b to
right and left tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b. Tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b
revolve in two planes. First, as do all passive pulleys on these
embodiments, tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b revolve independently about
their conventional circular centerline or axis when flexible
linkage 67 is wound or unwound from above by lifting or drive
pulleys 65a, 65b. Second, tensioning pulleys revolve (in a
perpendicular plane) about a tangent line to the arc of the
tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b, said tangent line is collinear with the
revolving axis 205. Further, tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b freely
revolve about revolving axis 205 in an equal-angular relationship
simultaneously with revolving assembly 15. This relationship is
seen when comparing the side views of this embodiment in FIG. 1d
(in which the overhead or drive assembly 11 is in a vertical
position in relation to the user) and FIG. 1f. (in which the
overhead or drive assembly 11 is rolled backward in relation to the
user). Notice that the tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b always maintain a
fixed geometric relationship with revolving assembly 15. This
relationship is maintained by the tension of the flexible linkage
67 stretched between the fixed, boom redirectioning pulleys 2a, 2b
and the tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b. This tangent pivot tensioning
pulley mechanism 71 maintains equal tension in the flexible linkage
at all times, regardless of the angle of the overhead or drive
assembly 11 in relation to the horizontal surface or floor. This
permits movement of overhead or drive assembly 11 from one angle or
plane of exercise to another, without the need to make an
adjustment for slack in the flexible linkage 67.
[0127] After exiting the tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b, the flexible
linkage 67 is then reeved through the fixed, revolving axis
redirectioning pulleys 4a, 4b to the fixed, weight stack
redirectioning pulleys 5a, 5b. From weight stack redirectioning
pulleys 5a, 5b, flexible linkage 67 is reeved around the
differential pulley 6, which is substantially mounted on top of the
weight stack 16. In this way, a single flexible linkage 67 is
routed from the right lifting or drive pulley 65a down to the
weight stack 16, then back up to left lifting or drive pulley 65b
by way of redirectioning, tensioning, and differential pulleys.
This configuration of pulleys results in a flexible linkage
differential selectorized resistance mechanism 70 providing full
and equal independent resistance to each of two separate user
interfaces 20a, 20b simultaneously when actuated by a user, in any
plane of exercise, and employing only one weight stack. This type
of flexible linkage differential selectorized resistance mechanism
70 can be employed on all embodiments of this invention utilizing
independent user interfaces.
[0128] The flexible linkage differential selectorized resistance
mechanism 70 just described employs a flexible linkage tangent
pivot tensioning pulley system 71 for maintaining equal tension in
the flexible linkage 67 when revolving assembly 15 is moved. FIG.
1h shows an alternative fixed plane tensioning pulley system 72
which provides mechanical results that are identical to and
interchangeable with the tangent pivot tensioning pulley system 71.
That is, the fixed plane tensioning pulley system 72 maintains
equal tension in the flexible linkage 67 at any angle of the
overhead or drive assembly 11 in relation to the horizontal
surface. In detail, FIG. 1h. shows the basic pulley arrangement for
the fixed plane tensioning pulley system 72. The fixed plane
tension pulley 303 is mounted on boom 64 of the given multi-axis
device and in a plane perpendicular to the revolving axis 205 of
the device, with center of rotation of fixed plane tension pulley
offset from revolving axis 205. The fixed plane tension pulley
system 72 may include one or more reserve pulleys 304. In the
drawing, one reserve pulley 304 is employed mounted in concentric
alignment with revolving axis 205 of the device. This arrangement
provides constant tension in the flexible linkage 67 during
operation.
[0129] The flexible linkage tensioning mechanisms described
maintain equal tension and prevent slack in the flexible linkage
system, and can be used on all flexible linkage embodiments. FIGS.
17a. and 17b. show a compound embodiment of the present invention
employing the tangent pivot tension pulley system 71 on the left
side of the machine, and the fixed plane tension pulley system 72
on the right side of the machine. Note that the revolving arc 63 on
the left side of the machine can accommodate a flexible linkage 67
(from the drive pulley 65b) routed in either direction along
revolving axis 205, that is, away from the user station 30 (as
illustrated), or said flexible linkage can be routed toward the
user station 30, and through the boom 64 and bearing 22.
[0130] Any machine employing the flexible linkage differential
mechanism 70 could be equipped with a dual weight stack system.
When two weight stacks are employed, drive pulleys 65a, 65b are
each operationally linked to one of the two corresponding
independent resistance mechanisms (weight stacks), and a
differential mechanism is obviated.
[0131] There are two phases of operation of this line of strength
training equipment: static adjustment, and exercise. During the
static adjustment phase of operation of the preferred embodiment, a
user sits in the user station/seat 30, adjusts seat to correct
position, and chooses appropriate resistance by placing a pin (not
shown) in the selectorized weight stack 16. Then the user adjusts
the rotational starting angle of the user interface assemblies 20a,
20b. To do this, the user interface assemblies 20a, 20b are
rotationally detached from user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b by
releasing or disengaging said spring pin and index plate mechanism.
The user interface assembly 20a, 20b is then rotated about the user
interface drive shaft 21a, 21b and finally, reattached or
re-engaged at desired angle by reengaging spring pin-index plate
mechanism. Adjustment of the angle of the user interface assemblies
20a, 20b permits extending or limiting range of motion of exercise
in any given plane. It also permits the approximate 90 to 180
degree rotational change in angle of the user interface assemblies
20a, 20b required for changing from pushing isolated shoulder
resistance exercise to pulling isolated shoulder resistance
exercise. This rotational adjustment method for user interfaces can
be used on all embodiments.
[0132] The last part of static adjustment phase is selection of the
plane of exercise. To accomplish this, a revolving arc locking
mechanism 40 is provided on most embodiments as illustrated in,
e.g., FIG. 14.A.1. Said revolving arc locking mechanism 40 may be
comprised by a radially aligned spring loaded pin that can be
engaged in radially aligned, corresponding holes, or it may
comprise a frictional brake or clamp, or equivalent, capable of
maintaining a substantially fixed position of the revolving
assembly 15 in relation to the stationary arcuate guide 14 when
locking mechanism 40 is actuated or locked; but permits free
revolution of revolving assembly 15 in relation to arcuate guide 14
when locking mechanism 40 is unlocked or disengaged. Said revolving
arc locking mechanism 40 may be hand- or foot-actuated by the user,
and may be mounted on arcuate guide 14 and/or base 12, and/or it
can be mounted on any part of revolving assembly 15.
[0133] Revolving arc locking mechanism 40 is actuated in order to
lock (or disengeagably fix) the angular position of the revolving
assembly 15 (and therefore, impart stationary support to axes of
rotation 200 and 201 of user interface assemblies 20a, 20b),
thereby "locking-in" a unique and specific plane of motion for
exercise. When revolving arc locking mechanism 40 is released,
revolving arcs 63a, 63b (and the revolving assembly 15)
glide/roll/revolve on rollers 62 about revolving axis 205, and can
be freely moved or revolved to any point along the arcuate guide
14. Subsequently, revolving assembly 15 can be locked in any new
position along arcuate guide 14 by once again actuating revolving
arc locking mechanism 40 in new position of revolving assembly 15,
so that axes of rotation 200, 201 of user interface assemblies 20a,
20b are oriented at a different angle in relation to the horizontal
surface or floor, providing a different unique angular plane of
exercise for the user. In this way, the user can quickly select
(and exercise in) any and all of the infinite radial planes of
resisted motion provided by the specific embodiment of the present
invention. This type of revolving arc locking mechanism 40 can be
employed on all embodiments.
[0134] Fixed adjustments made to working components prior to
exercise are called static adjustments, whereas dynamic changes
made during exercise are called dynamic adjustments. Dynamic
adjustments include dynamic changes in dimension, position, or
functional properties of any part of the device during operation.
For instance, user interface levers 23a, 23b and/or user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b can be adjustable in length by the use of
telescoping elements in order to accommodate variable length of the
arms of different users, as well as to dynamically accommodate the
changes in length of a user's extremity during a repetition of
exercise on any embodiment. Another dynamic adjustment mechanism is
the revolving user interface handle 28a, 28b illustrated in FIGS.
1i.1-4. This mechanism can provide static or dynamic angular
adjustment of the handhold of a user in any embodiment.
[0135] The circular portion of the handles 28a, 28b, may contain a
bearing, rollers, sliding telescoping components, or equivalent,
providing rotational motion about a first pivot axis 210 that is
generally collinear with the circular axis of the handle 28a, 28b.
A second pivot axis 211 is provided at a right angle to first pivot
axis 210, in the preferred embodiment. Second pivot axis 211
provides axial motion to the circular handles 28a, 28b like a
doorknob on compound and z-axis user interfaces FIG. 1i.1., but
provides rotational motion like a hinge in x-axis and y-axis
embodiments, FIGS. 1i.2-4. Said second pivot axis 211 may be
positioned anywhere along the breadth of the circular portion of
handles 28a, 28b. The axis 211 may or may not intersect said first
pivot axis 210, and thereby can provide symmetric or asymmetric
rotational motion of the circular handles 28a, 28b.
[0136] A third pivot axis 212 may be provided which is transverse
or parallel to said second pivot axis 211. A fourth pivot axis 213
may be provided at right angle to third pivot axis 212. The
alignment of said third 212 and fourth 213 pivot axes may be as
shown in FIG. 1i.3., with third pivot axis 212 aligned as a door
handle, and fourth pivot axis 213 aligned as a hinge, or vice
versa. A minimum of one or two pivot axes must be provided to give
adequate static and/or dynamic, natural biomechanical adjustment of
handle position while exercising in all planes on any given
embodiment, depending on the embodiment on which the handle is
employed.
[0137] Said third 212 and/or fourth 213 pivot axes may be excluded
if pivoting is provided about said first pivot axis 210 and said
second pivot axis 211. Said first pivot axis 210 may be excluded if
pivoting is provided about said second 211 and third 212 pivot
axes. That is, the combination of pivot axis one 210 and two 211,
or the combination of pivot axis two 211 and three 212 are the
preferred configurations, but three or even all four of said pivot
axes may be employed together. When two, three, or all four are
employed, said pivot axis two 211, and/or pivot axis three 212,
and/or pivot axis four 213 can be an axis about which a static
adjustment can be made. This enables the handle to be statically or
dynamically positioned in any direction (e.g. the handle may be
rotated and/or locked in a forward-facing or backward-facing
position), or it may be positioned in any static or dynamic
incremental angle that is advantageous or comfortable for the user.
Generally, the revolving handles 28a, 28b are always free to move
dynamically during exercise about pivot axis one 210 no matter how
few or how many other handle pivot axes are employed.
[0138] These pivoting mechanisms provide a constant angle of the
handhold if the user maintains constant position of the hand,
wrist, arm, and shoulder; or they can provide user-defined, dynamic
variable angular positioning of the handholds. It should also be
noted that the handles 28a, 28b are offset toward the user out of
the plane of the circular portion of the revolving handle apparatus
28a, 28b. This gives clearance to the hands, arms, and body of the
user from the user interface assemblies during exercise in all
embodiments.
[0139] Offset configuration of the handles is most advantageous in
embodiments in which the forearm of the user is not perpendicular
but approximately parallel to the user interface lever 23a, 23b
and/or user interface assembly 20a, 20b, especially in y-axis and
x-axis embodiments. In these embodiments, the forearm would collide
with the circular portion of the handles 28a, 28b during exercise
if the handhold was not offset. The revolving handles and their
design enhance the biomechanical function of all of these machines
and are integral to the inventive concept represented by this line
of devices.
[0140] During the exercise phase of operation, referring to FIG.
1j., for "pushing" isolated shoulder resistance exercise, the user
sits in the user station/seat 30 in the conventional way with his
back against the vertical back 36 of seat 30, and the user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in start position (S)
lateral to the user (as in a butterfly exercise). To perform
pushing exercise (in any plane), the user pushes the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b through the arc and plane of motion to the
finish position (F) in the front of the user. In the case of
vertical upward pushing exercise, the user interface assemblies
20a, 20b are locked in start position at the sides of the user and
pushed upward through the arc and plane of motion to the finish
position over user's head.
[0141] Referring to FIG. 1k., for "pulling" isolated shoulder
resistance exercise, the user sits in the user station/seat 30 with
chest against the vertical back 36 of seat 30 (i.e. facing the
opposite direction with respect to pushing exercise), and the user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in start position (S) in
front of the user (as in a rear deltoid exercise). To perform
pulling exercise (in any plane), the user pulls the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b through the arc and plane of motion to the
finish position (F) at the corresponding sides of the user. In the
case of vertical downward pulling exercise, the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in start position over user's head
and pulled down through the arc and plane of motion to the finish
position at the corresponding sides of the user. These general
instructions for pushing and pulling exercises can be implemented
for all isolated and compound resistance embodiments.
2. Z-Axis/Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Employing Differential
Drive
[0142] FIG. 2. shows a z-axis/multi-axis exercise device employing
a differential drive 66 instead of a flexible linkage differential
pulley system as is used in the preferred embodiment. In this
embodiment, independent, differential movement and resistance of
right and left user interfaces is provided by direct drive
differential gearing or equivalent. This mechanism is in the model
of gearing and differential assemblies described for the proximal
pivoting assembly in U.S. Pat. No. 7,341,546, Gautier 2008.
[0143] This embodiment employs arcuate guide 14, revolving assembly
15, and revolving arc locking mechanism 40 similar to those in the
preferred embodiment. The user moves similar user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b as those in the preferred embodiment. Right and
left user interface assemblies 20a, 20b drive right and left
angle-gearing components 99a, 99b which comprise a right-angle
gearbox as illustrated, and/or open gearing (such as bevel or miter
gears), and/or variable-moment-direction drive components (such as
a flexible shaft, universal joint, or equivalent). Right and left
angle-gearing components 99a, 99b drive input shafts on
corresponding right and left sides of differential drive 66.
Through the internal mechanics of differential gearing, the right
and left user-generated moments of exercise are combined to drive
the differential gear drive 66, and its housing. Ring gear 68 is
substantially, concentrically mounted (in this embodiment) on
housing of differential 66, and therefore, user-generated moment of
exercise drives differential gear drive housing and ring gear 68.
Said ring gear 68 in turn meshes with and drives a take-off gear 69
(or pinion). Said take-off gear 69 is substantially, concentrically
mounted on an offset shaft 23. Offset shaft 23 is mounted on
overhead or drive assembly 11 by way of bearings 22. Offset shaft
23 conveys the combined right and left user-generated moments of
exercise to lifting or drive pulley 65 which is substantially and
concentrically mounted on the opposite end of offset shaft 23 in
relation to take-off gear 69. Lifting or drive pulley 65 winds a
flexible linkage which may be routed through a tangent pivot
tensioning system 71 as in the preferred embodiment, or a fixed
plane pulley tensioning system 72 (as illustrated in FIGS. 1h.,
17a., and 17b.), or other tensioning system, and ultimately to a
weight stack 16 or other resistance mechanism.
[0144] The axis of rotation of user interface drive shafts 200, 201
on either side of differential drive 66 can be adjustable to a
different angle of exercise, especially within (but not limited to
being within) a parallel or coplanar plane in relation to the plane
of exercise, through the use of a gearbox, and/or open gearing,
and/or a variable-moment-direction drive component, such as a
flexible shaft, universal joint, or equivalent.
General Description of Multi-Axis Exercise Device Concept
[0145] The design of the preferred embodiment can be used as a
model for related, equally innovative strength training devices for
providing exercise through many other axes of infinite radial
planes of motion. Certain structural and functional elements
described are common among the different possible exercise units,
mechanical designs, and functional embodiments of this multiple
axis resistance exercise device concept. The generalized
description of the present invention (i.e. the multiple axis
resistance exercise device concept) is: An exercise machine
comprised by a substantial arcuate guide centered on an axis of
shoulder motion, which arcuate guide supports the revolving
functional components of the device (in the preferred embodiment,
said arcuate guide is centered on the circumduction axis of
shoulder rotation of the seated user, but said arcuate guide may be
centered on other relevant axes, depending on the particular
multiple axis exercise embodiment); a revolving circular carrier or
carrier (revolving arc) which is concentrically mounted on, and
freely revolvable and positionable along arcuate guide; said
carrier carries a user interface drive assembly from which extends
rigid user interface arm(s); said rigid user interface arms are
coupled to a resistance mechanism via direct drive and/or flexible
linkage(s); therefore, said rigid interface arms are positionable
along arcuate guide by way of carrier, and said rigid interface
arms are pivotally moveable against resistance.
[0146] The fundamental differences between this line of equipment
and others are: (1) the axis(es) of rotation of the user
interface(s) employed by each machine in this series of exercise
devices is trans-locatable, or the axis of rotation of exercise on
each single-plane resistance exercise machine is one of a unique
group of axes of motion (providing a unique group of radial,
parallel, or coplanar planes of motion/exercise); (2) the axis(es)
of rotation of the user interface(s) employed by each machine in
this series of exercise devices intersect(s) and or is (are)
coaxial with the active axis of rotation of the corresponding joint
trained during exercise, as described in Gautier 2008; (3) the
revolving axis of the revolving assembly in each embodiment may be
coaxial with any axis of shoulder motion, but preferentially
coaxial with one of the primary Cartesian axes of shoulder motion
in most of these embodiments; and (4) each machine in this line
provides an exponential or infinite number of planes of resisted
motion; or each single-plane resistance machine in a given
single-plane device line provides one of a multitude of unique
radial or parallel/coplanar planes of exercise about a unique axis
of joint motion.
[0147] The most important exceptions to the rule that the
rotational axis of exercise (i.e. the rotational axis of the user
interface) always intersects the corresponding shoulder joint of
the user, are the cases of devices that provide axes of exercise
that are parallel and/or collinear to the active axis of joint
motion and of exercise. The first exception is when the axis of
rotation of the user interface is parallel to the revolving axis of
the revolving assembly in the case of the compound embodiment. The
second exception to the rule that the rotational axis of the user
interface intersects the shoulder joint of the user is when the
axis of rotation of the user interface passes through some other
joint, such as the elbow joint in the biceps/triceps multi-axis
exercise device embodiment.
Specifications for Other Multi-Axis Exercise Concept Devices
3. Compound Shoulder Multi-Axis Exercise Machine--Employing
Concentric Drive Shafts, Flexible Linkage Differential, and
Selectorized Resistance
[0148] Compound shoulder exercise is characterized by simultaneous
movement of both the shoulder and the elbow joint. In conventional
compound shoulder movement, either the shoulder is flexed while the
elbow is extended (i.e. pressing or pushing movement), or
conversely, the shoulder is extended while the elbow is flexed
(i.e. rowing or pulling movement). Typical examples of compound
shoulder resistance exercise devices are shoulder press and rowing
machines. In the compound embodiment of the present invention
illustrated in FIGS. 3a-b., the z-axis of shoulder motion of a user
positioned in the user station is collinear with the revolving axis
205 of the revolving assembly 15 of the device. The axes of
rotation of the right and left user interfaces 200, 201 in this
embodiment are parallel to the z-axis of shoulder movement, to the
revolving axis 205, and approximately parallel to the active axis
of rotation of the shoulder during exercise, by the model of
exercise machine design exemplified in Gautier 2008. Gautier 2008
describes a multiplane exercise machine employing a user interface
functionally connected to a drive (linked to resistance mechanism);
said drive slides along an arcuate guide; and said drive can be
detachably attached at any point along said arcuate guide in order
to provide exercise at any point along said arcuate guide's
length.
[0149] This compound shoulder resistance device employs the
following common components from the preferred embodiment: (1) wide
diameter arcuate guide 14, (2) wide diameter revolving assembly 15,
(3) revolving arc locking mechanism 40, (4) tangent pivot tension
pulley, (5) selectorized resistance (weight stack 16), and (6)
flexible linkage differential pulley mechanism 70. The difference
in this compound embodiment and the preferred embodiment is
apparent in the overhead assembly 11. In this embodiment, right and
left user interface assemblies 20a, 20b provide compound
resistance, with independent, concentric user interface drive
shafts. User interface assemblies 20a, 20b are comprised by right
and left: lifting or drive pulleys 65a, 65b, user interface levers
23a, 23b, user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b, user interface
handles 28a, 28b, and user interface spring pins and index plates
for adjusting starting angle and range of motion of user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b--as described in the preferred embodiment.
[0150] In this embodiment, the user pushes or pulls user interface
handles 28a, 28b of user interface assemblies 20a, 20b toward or
away from the shoulders of the user in a compound shoulder motion.
The user thereby generates force on the right and left user
interface handles 28a, 28b which drive corresponding user interface
levers 23a, 23b. User interface levers 23a, 23b are attached to and
drive corresponding user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b. User
interface drive shafts 21a, 21b are mounted parallel to revolving
axis 205 by way of bearings 22 mounted on boom 64 of overhead
assembly 11. Right user interface drive shaft 21a is made of steel
tubing or the like, with inner diameter greater than outer diameter
of left user interface drive shaft 21b. Left user interface drive
shaft 21b passes concentrically through right user interface drive
shaft 21a. User interface drive shafts 21a, 21b are mounted
independently (by way of bearings 22 on boom 64), are driven
independently, and revolve independently. The axis of rotation of
user interface drive shafts 200, 201 can be adjustable to a
different angle of exercise, especially within (but not limited to
being within) a parallel or coplanar plane in relation to the plane
of exercise, through the use of a gearbox, and/or open gearing,
and/or a variable-moment-direction drive component, such as a
flexible shaft, universal joint, or equivalent.
[0151] When actuated by a user, each right and/or left user
interface assembly 20a, 20b conveys a corresponding right and/or
left user-generated moment to the opposite side of the machine by
way of corresponding right and/or left concentric user interface
drive shafts 21a, 21b, which independently drive the concentrically
mounted corresponding overhead or drive pulley 65a, 65b. Said
corresponding drive pulleys 65a, 65b wind flexible linkage 67,
which is routed through similar flexible linkage differential
mechanism 70 described in the preferred embodiment. Adjustments on
the machine are made in a similar way to adjustments made on the
preferred embodiment. The user may make embodiment-specific
adjustments as well (e.g. in rotational angle of revolving
handles).
[0152] During the exercise phase of operation, for "pushing or
pressing" compound shoulder resistance exercise, the user sits in
the user station/seat 30 in the conventional way with his back
against the vertical back 36 of seat 30, and the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in starting position (by way of a
similar mechanism for locking the user interface at a given
starting angle described in the preferred embodiment) at the
shoulders of the user, as in a press exercise. To perform pushing
exercise (in any plane), the user pushes the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b through the arc and plane of motion to the
front of the user. In the case of vertical upward pushing exercise,
the user interface assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in starting
position at the shoulders of the user and pushed upward through the
arc and plane of motion over user's head.
[0153] For "pulling or rowing" compound shoulder resistance
exercise, the user sits in the user station/seat 30 with chest
against the vertical back 36 of seat 30 (i.e. facing the opposite
direction with respect to pushing exercise), and the user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in starting position in front of the
user at some user-selected distance (as in a rowing exercise). To
perform pulling exercise (in any plane), the user pulls the user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b through the arc and plane of motion
back to the corresponding shoulders of the user. In the case of
vertical downward pulling exercise, the user interface assemblies
20a, 20b are locked in starting position over user's head and
pulled down through the arc and plane of motion to the
corresponding shoulders of the user. These general instructions for
pushing and pulling exercises can be implemented for all isolated
and compound resistance embodiments.
[0154] FIG. 3c. illustrates the concentric shaft drive mechanism
implemented with a z-axis isolated multi-axis resistance device.
This device employs similar and analogous components previously
described, including arcuate guide 14, revolving assembly 15,
angle-gearing components 99a, 99b, z-axis user interface assemblies
20a, 20b, and flexible linkage or other resistance mechanism. This
device employs concentric drive shafts 21a, 21b, similar to those
described for the compound concentric drive mechanism.
4. Compound Shoulder Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Employing
Differential Drive
[0155] FIG. 4. shows a compound multi-axis exercise device
employing a differential gear drive 66 instead of a flexible
linkage differential pulley system as is employed in the compound
concentric drive embodiment. In the present embodiment,
independent, differential movement and resistance of right and left
user interfaces is provided by direct drive differential gearing or
equivalent.
[0156] This embodiment employs similar arcuate guide 14, revolving
assembly 15, and revolving arc locking mechanism 40 as in the
preferred embodiment. User interface levers 23a, 23b are similar to
those in the compound concentric drive embodiment. Said right and
left user interface levers 23a, 23b drive input shafts on opposing
right and left sides of differential drive 66. Through the internal
mechanics of differential gearing, the right and left
user-generated moments of exercise are combined to drive the
differential gear drive 66, and its housing. Ring gear 68 is
substantially, concentrically mounted on housing of differential
drive 66 (in this embodiment), and therefore, the combined
user-generated moment of exercise drives differential gear drive
housing and ring gear 68. Said ring gear 68 in turn meshes with and
drives a take-off gear 69 (or pinion). Said take-off gear 69 is
substantially, concentrically mounted on an offset shaft 23. Offset
shaft 23 is mounted on overhead assembly 11 by way of bearings 22.
Offset shaft 23 conveys the combined right and left user-generated
moments of exercise to lifting pulley 65 which is mounted on the
opposite end of offset shaft 23 in relation to take-off gear 69.
Lifting pulley 65 winds a flexible linkage which may be routed
through a tangent pivot tensioning pulley system 71 as in the
preferred embodiment, or a fixed sagittal plane pulley tensioning
system 72, or other tensioning system, to a weight stack 16 or
other resistance mechanism. The axis of rotation of user interface
drive shafts 200, 201 on either side of differential drive 66 can
be adjustable to a different angle of exercise, especially within
(but not limited to being within) a parallel or coplanar plane in
relation to the plane of exercise, through the use of a gearbox,
and/or open gearing, and/or a variable-moment-direction drive
component, such as a flexible shaft, universal joint, or
equivalent.
5. Free Flexible Linkage/Free Cable Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0157] FIG. 5. shows a free flexible linkage embodiment of the
present invention employing similar: (1) arcuate guide 14, (2)
revolving assembly 15, (3) revolving arc locking mechanism 40, (4)
selectorized resistance mechanism (weight stack 16), and (5)
flexible linkage differential pulley mechanism 70 utilized in the
preferred embodiment.
[0158] The difference between this and the preferred embodiment is
apparent in the overhead assembly 11. In the free flexible linkage
embodiment, right and left user interface assembly each comprise a
user interface free handle 28a, 28b attached to the free end of a
weighted flexible linkage 67. Flexible linkage 67 is routed from
right and left free handles 28a, 28b through right and left
centering pulley assembly 7a, 7b, through or around right and left
overhead pivoting arm 85a, 85b and to right and left overhead pivot
pulley 8a, 8b. From overhead pivot pulley 8a, 8b, flexible linkage
67 is routed through first right and left boom redirectioning
pulleys 1a, 1b to second right and left boom redirectioning pulleys
2a, 2b and then through flexible linkage differential selectorized
resistance mechanism 70 described previously in preferred
embodiment. The free flexible linkage embodiment employs a free
flexible linkage mechanism which differs from other embodiments in
that there is no pivoting rigid arm (user interface) that is moved
as a lever for actuating the resistance mechanism.
[0159] Turning to the function of the device, the user holds,
pushes, and/or pulls the right and/or left free handles 28a, 28b in
the opposite direction from the overhead assembly 11, regardless of
the position of overhead assembly 11 on arcuate guide 14. The angle
of the flexible linkage 67 (and therefore the angle of resistance
force) in relation to the user can be manually adjusted in any
given plane by changing the angle of the overhead pivoting arm 85a,
85b. To change angle of resistance for narrow or wide angle grip in
both pushing and pulling exercise, the user disengages spring pin
and index plate mechanism, moves overhead pivoting arm 85a, 85b to
new angle, and then reengages spring pin and index plate mechanism
(as described for selecting starting angle of user interfaces in
preferred embodiment). (FIG. 7.B.3. shows a free flexible linkage
embodiment with user interface handles and flexible linkages routed
on either side of revolving arc. (All embodiments employing a wide
diameter revolving arc (including compound and z-axis multi-axis
devices) may utilize this design).
6. Radial and/or Lateral Stabilizer Mechanisms
[0160] FIGS. 6a-c. show three stabilizing mechanisms for providing
radial and lateral stability to the wide diameter revolving arc
structure. FIG. 6a. illustrates a horizontal outrigger boom
stabilizer 101. Outrigger stabilizer 101 substantially supports on
its lateral end, a roller assembly 102. Outrigger stabilizer 101
extends to a stationary, concentric and parallel arcuate guide 100.
Said parallel arcuate guide 100 is substantially mounted on base 12
or on fixed structural element(s) of the device. Roller assembly
102 rolls on parallel arcuate guide 100. Roller assembly 102 acts
as a mobile, radial and lateral attachment for outrigger stabilizer
101. FIG. 6b. shows a radial stabilizer mechanism 120 which pivots
on the revolving axis 205 of the revolving assembly 15 of the
device. Radial stabilizer 120 is substantially fixed, or can be
pivotally fixed, to outrigger boom 101, or to revolving arc. FIG.
6c. illustrates a short radial stabilizer mechanism 103. The short
radial stabilizer 103 is substantially fixed to and extends
radially from the outrigger boom 101. Substantially fixed to the
distal end of short radial stabilizer 103 is a roller assembly 102,
which rolls on a stationary, concentric and parallel arcuate guide
100. Roller assembly 102 thereby represents a mobile, radial and
lateral attachment for outrigger stabilizer 101.
7. Rail/Channel and Roller Embodiments
[0161] A. Single Circular Arc/Rail/Channel/Roller System;
[0162] B. Double Circular Arc/Rail/Channel/Roller System.
[0163] A. A roller channel system is employed as the conveying
system for the revolving assembly in the previous embodiments, but
various roller systems can be employed for a revolving arc
mechanism. For example, FIG. 7. A. 1a. shows a single revolving arc
63 that rolls concentrically on the inner surface of the stationary
circular arcuate guide 14 by way of rollers 62. Rollers 62 are
mounted on inner surface of arcuate guide 14 with axis of rotation
parallel to the revolving axis 205 of revolving arc 63. Rolling
surfaces of rollers 62 are congruent with the outer surface of the
revolving arc 63. Three or more rollers 62 capture the revolving
arc 63 within the circular arcuate guide 14 in this embodiment.
Alternatively, rollers 62 may be mounted on outer surface of
revolving arc 63, and roll in a track mounted on or formed by inner
surface of arcuate guide 14. Notice the triangular pattern 150 of
the rollers in the side view. Boom 64 is substantially mounted on
revolving arc 63 and/or boom mounting plate 81. Revolving arc
counterweight 13 counterbalances the weight of overhead assembly
11. Revolving arc 63 may incorporate spokes 82 in order to increase
rigidity of the structure, as in FIG. 7. A. 1b.
[0164] FIGS. 7. A. 2.-7. A. 4. show other possibilities. FIG. 7. A.
2. shows a similar single revolving arc mechanism incorporating an
offset center pivot mechanism. A bearing post substantially mounted
at intersection of spokes 82, having cylindrical axis collinear
with the revolving axis 205, and projecting laterally from spokes
82, revolves in a stationary center pivot component such as a
bushing or bearing 22. Said bushing/bearing 22 is substantially
mounted on a fixed structural element of the device, which provides
a stationary point of rotation that is concentric but offset from
the plane of the revolving arc 63 of revolving assembly 15. This
offset configuration of the center pivot point triangulates forces
generated during operation and provides added stability. FIG. 7. A.
3. shows a single revolving arc mechanism with offset center pivot
mechanism, but employs an arcuate guide 14 that is not a full
circle. In this embodiment, rollers substantially mounted on
arcuate guide 14 capture revolving arc 63 in the plane of revolving
arc 63 and the plane of arcuate guide 14, on both inner and outer
sides of the arc. Notice in this embodiment as well, there is a
triangular base of support 150 for the revolving arc. Finally, FIG.
7. A. 4. illustrates an embodiment utilizing single revolving arc
mechanisms, one on each side of user station 30, termed bilateral
revolving arcs 63a, 63b.
[0165] B. FIG. 7. B. 1. illustrates a double revolving arc and
roller mechanism. As in other embodiments, the revolving arc 63 is
captured by rollers 62. Rollers 62 are substantially mounted within
roller assembly 83(1), 83(2) on arcuate guide 14. The illustration
shows this embodiment employing a radial stabilizer 120. Radial
stabilizer 120 is also illustrated in FIG. 6b. FIG. 7. B. 2. shows
a double revolving arc and roller mechanism employing a free
flexible linkage mechanism with an outrigger boom stabilizer 101
and offset concentric parallel arcuate guide 100, as illustrated in
FIG. 6a. FIG. 7. B. 3. shows a free flexible linkage embodiment
with double revolving arc mechanism, with user interfaces mounted
on either side of revolving arc. FIG. 7.B.4. shows twin double
revolving arc and roller mechanisms. These revolving arcs are
mounted by way of rollers on arcuate guides as in previous
embodiments, but further, they are mounted concentric to each other
in parallel planes on one side of the user station (unilateral
revolving arc configuration). This configuration of revolving arcs
provides added lateral stabilization of revolving and drive
components.
8. Polygonal Structural Support
[0166] Revolving assembly embodiments have been described as being
mounted on and supported by an arcuate guide that is physically
arc-shaped. But the arcuate guide may be virtually arc-shaped in
the present invention since roller/conveying/structural support
elements may be positioned in a polygonal or linear pattern or
array.
[0167] The actual shape or pattern of the arcuate guide is a
polygonal construct of conveying (e.g. roller-bearing) components
with the number of sides equal to the number of components in the
array. FIG. 8a. shows the preferred embodiment from a side view
with a decagonal array 155 of conveying/structural support
elements--rollers 62 in this case. FIG. 8b. shows a revolving
structure with a rectangular array 151 of conveying/structural
support elements. FIGS. 7.A.1a. and 7.A.3. show revolving
structures with triangular arrays 150 of conveying/structural
support elements. If only two roller-bearing components or
assemblies are employed, the pattern forms a line segment. FIG. 8c.
shows a double revolving arc mechanism with a linear array of
conveying/structural support elements composed of rollers 62
comprising roller assemblies 83(1), 83(2).
[0168] Polygonal structural support may also be provided by
pivoting components such as bushings, and by locking mechanisms.
FIGS. 16a. and 17a. illustrate triangular polygonal support 150
provided by pivoting components (e.g. bearings/bushings 22) in
combination with locking mechanisms 40. FIGS. 19a-d. show polygonal
structural supporting elements (triangular 150 and decagonal 155)
at right angles to one another. Polygonal support for functional
components provides maximal structural strength, particularly when
triangulated structures are implemented.
9. Compound Lower Body Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0169] FIG. 9. shows a compound lower body exercise embodiment of
the present invention. The revolving axis 205 of the revolving
assembly 15 is parallel to the z-axis of hip joint motion
(analogous and parallel to the z-axis of shoulder motion) of a user
positioned in the user station 30. The axis of rotation of the user
interface 200 in this embodiment is approximately parallel to the
z-axis of hip joints of the user as well. Referring to FIG. 9. in
detail, the compound lower body machine employs similar arcuate
guides 14a, 14b, and revolving assembly 15 utilized in the
preferred embodiment. The difference in this device and the
preferred embodiment is apparent in the overhead assembly 11 and
revolving arcs 63, which are dependent, co-revolving and fixed to
one another by boom 64, concentric/parallel/bilateral, and
designated right and left 63a, 63b. Each right and left revolving
arc 63a, 63b is mounted on each corresponding right and left
arcuate guide 14a, 14b on either side of user station 30 (i.e.
bilaterally) by way of rollers, as in previous embodiments.
Overhead assembly 11 is substantially fixed to bilateral revolving
arcs 63a, 63b by way of boom 64. Bilateral revolving arcs 63a, 63b,
revolving arc counter weights 13a, 13b, boom 64, and overhead
assembly 11 together revolve as a unit about revolving axis 205 and
are termed revolving assembly 15. The overhead assembly 11 on this
embodiment includes a user interface assembly 20 for compound lower
body exercise, and consists of a lever capable of accommodating the
upper body/shoulders of the user. User interface assembly 20
includes a single user interface drive shaft 21.
[0170] FIG. 9. also shows a user actuating the user interface
assembly 20 by extending hips and knees. User interface assembly 20
drives ring gear 68, which is concentrically fixed on user
interface drive shaft 21. Said ring gear 68 meshes with and drives
offset gear 69 and offset shaft 23. Offset shaft drives drive
pulley 65, which is concentrically mounted on opposite end of
offset shaft 23 in relation to offset gear 69. Drive pulley 65
winds flexible linkage which is routed through tension pulley
system previously described and ultimately to resistance
mechanism/weight stack 16. The compound lower body embodiment can
be implemented utilizing bilateral revolving arcs as illustrated,
or with similar unilateral revolving arc/assembly described in
preferred embodiment.
10. Y-Axis/Multi-Axis Exercise Machine
[0171] FIGS. 10a-e. are illustrations of the y-axis embodiment of
the present invention. The embodiment is named for the right and
left shoulder y-axis of a user positioned in the user station 30 of
the device, which said right and left y-axis of the user are
aligned in (or approximately in) a collinear relationship with the
corresponding right and left revolving axis 205, 206 of the device.
The right and left axes of rotation of the user interfaces 200, 201
intersect the corresponding shoulder joints of the user during
operation, and are perpendicular to the corresponding right and
left revolving axes 205, 206. This embodiment provides isolated
shoulder resistance exercise in any of the infinite radial planes
of motion passing through the y-axis of shoulder movement. FIG.
10c. illustrates some of the potential planes of exercise that are
possible on this device (in edge-on orientation).
[0172] Unlike those previously described, this is a nonconcentric,
bilateral, independent revolving arc mechanism (but can be
implemented with revolving arcs/assemblies that revolve dependently
in relation to one another). The y-axis embodiment employs two
mirror image nonconcentric revolving assembly structures 15a, 15b
mounted on base 12 and/or fixed structural elements of the frame.
Left revolving assembly structure 15b is illustrated in FIGS.
10d-e. By employing two independent mirror image revolving
assemblies 15a, 15b, independent adjustment of the plane of
exercise is made possible for right and left user interfaces.
Because of the narrow width of the diameter of the revolving arcs
63a, 63b in this embodiment, this is referred to as a narrow
diameter revolving arc assembly.
[0173] Turning to FIG. 10a-b. in detail, number 10 designates the
exercise machine in accordance with the present invention. The
apparatus 10 comprises a base adapted to rest on a supporting
surface, as in previously embodiments. A pair of horizontal
supports which also serve the function of stationary right and left
arcuate guides 14a, 14b are secured to the base, and/or to fixed
structural element(s), and/or to the floor at fixed points 18.
Fixed points 18 are represented in the drawings as square pads or
plates and represent structural points that are one of
substantially grounded or substantially fixed to the base or a
stationary structural element of the frame of the device. Fixed
points 18 in the drawings are fixed in space and in relation to
each other. A resistance mechanism, such as a weight stack 16, is
also secured to the base. Weight stack 16 is operationally
connected via a flexible linkage 67 (routed through pulleys) to a
pair of user interface assemblies 20a, 20b, providing resistance to
motion thereof. Mounted on the base and/or on the arcuate guide
14a, 14b is a user station/seat 30, as described in previous
embodiments.
[0174] Turning to the active or working portions of the y-axis
embodiment, the exercise machine 10 comprises a right and left
stationary arcuate guide 14a, 14b, the centerlines of which are
collinear with the y-axis of motion of the corresponding right and
left shoulder(s) of a user seated in the user station 30, and said
centerlines are termed the right and left revolving axes 205, 206
of revolving assemblies 15a, 15b. The stationary arcuate guides
14a, 14b are the structural supports for the revolving functional
components of the device (i.e. the revolving assemblies 15a, 15b).
The y-axis right and left revolving assemblies 15a, 15b are
comprised by right and left: (1) revolving arcs 63a, 63b, (2) booms
64a, 64b, (3) user interface assemblies 20a, 20b, and (4) flexible
linkage differential system 70. Revolving arcs 63, are independent,
coplanar (or virtually coplanar), and designated right and left
63a, 63b. Revolving arcs 63a, 63b are mounted concentrically on
corresponding right and left arcuate guides 14a, 14b. Therefore,
revolving arcs 63a, 63b are concentric with (and revolve about) the
corresponding right and left revolving axes 205 and 206, and are
therefore concentric with the y-axis of the positioned user's
corresponding right and left shoulder(s).
[0175] Arcuate guides 14a, 14b are made from metal tubing or
channel having cross-sectional or inner dimensions and shape
congruent with the cross-sectional, surface, and/or outer
dimensions and shape of rollers 62. Rollers 62 are mounted on the
planar side(s) of the revolving arcs 63a, 63b in a polygonal and/or
circular pattern, as illustrated in FIG. 10d. Said polygonal and/or
circular pattern has diameter similar to the diameter of arcuate
guides 14a, 14b.
[0176] Centerlines of rotation of rollers 62 are oriented parallel
to the revolving axes 205 and 206 as illustrated in FIG. 10d., but
centerlines of rollers 62 may be oriented radially (or otherwise)
in relation to revolving axes 205, 206. Rollers 62 roll within the
confines of congruent inner surfaces of channel of arcuate guides
14a, 14b. Thereby, when revolving arcs 63a, 63b are in functional
position as illustrated, arcuate guides 14a, 14b provide a "gliding
path" along or over which revolving arcs 63a, 63b and entire
revolving assembly 15a, 15b glide, roll, or revolve about the
corresponding revolving axes 205, 206.
[0177] User interface assemblies 20 provide isolated shoulder
resistance, in planes radial to the y-axis, and are designated
right and left 20a, 20b. Right and left user interface assemblies
20a, 20b are comprised by corresponding right and left: (1) lifting
or drive pulleys 65a, 65b, (2) user interface drive shafts 21a,
21b, (3) handles 28a, 28b, and (5) user interface spring pin and
index plates as described.
[0178] Boom 64a, 64b is substantially fixed to revolving arc 63a,
63b. User interface assembly 20a, 20b is mounted on distal end of
boom 64a, 64b. Boom 64a, 64b holds bearings 22 that provide
rotational freedom to user interface assembly 20a, 20b about axes
200 and 201, but otherwise fix user interface assemblies 20a, 20b
and axis of rotation 200 and 201: (1) in relation to boom 64a, 64b
(but user interface assemblies 20a, 20b and their axes of rotation
200 and 201 can be adjustable (as with a flexible shaft, universal
joint or equivalent) in relation to boom 64a, 64b in this and other
embodiments), and (2) at right angle to y-axis of shoulder of a
user (regardless of the angle of rotation of revolving assembly
15a, 15b about revolving axis 205, 206 (i.e. regardless of plane of
exercise)). Because revolving assemblies 15a, 15b move
independently in the y-axis embodiment, user interface axes of
rotation 200, 201 may not be, and usually are not symmetrically
aligned when the machine is in use.
[0179] As described, revolving assemblies 15a, 15b may revolve
independently, but also may be statically fixed (i.e. by a locking
mechanism 40 as illustrated in FIG. 13a.) or dynamically fixed
(i.e. fixed during exercise by the user) in mirror image or
asymmetric planes of exercise. The well-known spring pin and index
plate assembly mechanism is employed to lock user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b to user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b (in
order to extend or limit range of motion) in the same way as the
preferred and other embodiments.
[0180] Referring to FIGS. 10a and e., when a user moves or rotates
right and left user interface assemblies 20a, 20b about right and
left user interface axis of rotation 200 and 201, this rotates
right and left user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b. Right and left
user interface drive shafts 21a, 21b are attached to and drive
corresponding right and left lifting or drive pulleys 65a, 65b.
Lifting or drive pulleys 65a, 65b each wind a flexible linkage 67.
Flexible linkage 67 is routed from right and left lifting or drive
pulleys 65a, 65b through corresponding right and left centering
pulley assemblies 7a, 7b to right and left boom redirectioning
pulleys 2a, 2b, and then to tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b. Tensioning
pulleys 3a, 3b revolve in two planes, as described in previous
embodiments. First, as do all passive pulleys on these embodiments,
tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b revolve independently about their
conventional circular centerline or axis when flexible linkage 67
is wound or unwound from above by lifting pulleys 65a, 65b. Second,
right and left tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b revolve (in a
perpendicular plane) about a tangent line to the arc of said right
and left tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b, said tangent lines are
collinear with the corresponding right and left revolving axis 205,
206. Further, tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b freely revolve about
revolving axis 205, 206 in an equal-angular relationship
simultaneously with the corresponding right and left revolving
assembly 15a, 15b. Therefore, right and left tensioning pulleys 3a,
3b always maintain a fixed geometric relationship with the
corresponding right and left revolving assembly 15a, 15b. This
relationship is maintained by the tension of the flexible linkage
67 stretched between the fixed, boom redirectioning pulleys 2a, 2b
and the tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b. This tangent pivot tensioning
pulley mechanism 71 maintains equal tension in the flexible linkage
at all times, regardless of the angle of the revolving assembly
15a, 15b in relation to the user. This permits movement of
revolving assembly 15a, 15b from one angle or plane of exercise to
another, without the need to make an adjustment for slack in the
flexible linkage 67.
[0181] After exiting the tensioning pulleys 3a, 3b, the flexible
linkage 67 is then reeved through the fixed, revolving axis
redirectioning pulleys 4a, 4b. The same flexible linkage
differential mechanism described in previous embodiments may be
employed on the y-axis device. The configuration of pulleys
described in previous embodiments can provide full and equal,
independent resistance to each of the user interfaces 20a, 20b when
actuated by a user, in any plane of exercise, in this y-axis
embodiment. This type of flexible linkage differential mechanism
can be employed on all embodiments providing independent bilateral
user interfaces and flexible linkage resistance. (Any machine
employing the flexible linkage differential mechanism, including
this y-axis embodiment, could be equipped with a dual weight stack
system as described previously).
[0182] There are two phases of operation of this line of strength
training equipment: adjustment, and exercise. During adjustment
phase of operation of the y-axis embodiment, a user sits in the
user station 30, adjusts seat 30 to correct position, and chooses
appropriate resistance by placing a pin (not shown) in the
selectorized weight stack 16. Then the user adjusts the rotational
angle of the user interface assemblies 20a, 20b in the same way as
previous embodiments.
[0183] The last part of adjustment phase is selection of the plane
of exercise. To accomplish this, a revolving arc locking mechanism
40 may be provided as illustrated in FIG. 13a. Said revolving arc
locking mechanism 40 may be comprised by a radially aligned spring
loaded pin that can be engaged in radially aligned, corresponding
holes, or it may comprise a frictional brake or clamp, or
equivalent, as in FIG. 13a., capable of maintaining a substantially
fixed position of the revolving assembly 15 in relation to the
stationary arcuate guide 14 when locking mechanism 40 is actuated
or locked; but permits free revolution of revolving assembly 15 in
relation to arcuate guide 14 when locking mechanism 40 is unlocked.
Said revolving arc locking mechanism 40 may be hand- or
foot-actuated by the user, and may be mounted on base, and/or
arcuate guide 14, and/or it can be mounted on any part of revolving
assembly 15. Revolving arc locking mechanism 40 is actuated in
order to lock (or disengagably fix) the angular position of the
revolving assembly 15a, 15b (and therefore, impart stationary
support to axes of rotation 200 and 201 of user interface
assemblies 20a, 20b), thereby "locking-in" a unique and specific
plane of motion for exercise. When revolving arc locking mechanism
40 is released, revolving arcs 63a, 63b (and the revolving assembly
15a, 15b) glide/roll/revolve on rollers 62 about revolving axis
205, 206 and can be freely moved or revolved to any point along the
arcuate guide 14a, 14b.
[0184] Subsequently, revolving assembly 15a, 15b can be locked in
any new position along arcuate guide 14a, 14b by once again
actuating revolving arc locking mechanism 40 in new position of
revolving assembly 15a, 15b, so that axes of rotation 200, 201 of
user interface assemblies 20a, 20b, are oriented at a different
angle in relation to the user, providing a different unique angular
plane of exercise for the user. In this way, the user can quickly
select (and exercise in) any and all of the infinite radial planes
of resisted motion provided by the specific embodiment of the
present invention. This type of revolving arc locking mechanism 40
can be employed on all embodiments. Revolving arc locking mechanism
40 may not be employed, or employed and not engaged during exercise
in order to provide dynamically variable planes of exercise.
[0185] During the exercise phase of operation, for upward "pushing"
y-axis isolated shoulder resistance exercise, the user sits in user
station/seat 30, with the user interface assemblies 20a, 20b locked
in starting position to the side of the user (as in a forward
shoulder raise exercise). To perform pushing exercise (in any
plane), the user pushes the user interface assemblies 20a, 20b
through the arc and plane of motion to position above the user.
[0186] For downward "pulling" y-axis isolated shoulder resistance
exercise, the user sits in the user station/seat 30, and the user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b are locked in starting position above
the user (as in a lat pull exercise). To perform pulling exercise
(in any plane), the user pulls the user interface assemblies 20a,
20b through the arc and plane of motion to the corresponding sides
of the user.
11. Diagonal Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0187] FIG. 11a-c. shows the diagonal shoulder resistance
multi-axis exercise device. This embodiment incorporates a
revolving assembly 15 similar to the y-axis device. When a user
sits in the user station 30, the y-axis of the user's shoulder is
aligned in (or approximately in) a collinear relationship with the
revolving axis 205 of the device. The axis of rotation of the user
interface 200 intersects the shoulder joint of the user during
operation, and is perpendicular to the revolving axis 206. This
embodiment provides isolated shoulder resistance exercise in any of
the infinite radial planes of motion passing through the y-axis of
shoulder movement, but can provide full and equal resistance
through a horizontal plane of motion, or any diagonal pattern of
shoulder motion as well.
[0188] This is a unilateral revolving structure machine, including
the following y-axis device components: (1) arcuate guide 14b, (2)
revolving assembly 15b, (3) revolving arc locking mechanism 40, and
(4) flexible linkage differential pulley mechanism 70 utilized in
the y-axis and preferred embodiments. User interface assembly 20,
provides isolated vertical plane shoulder resistance, in planes
radial to y-axis of shoulder motion. The primary difference between
the diagonal multi-axis device and the y-axis device (or other
embodiments) is that, in addition to providing conventional
resistance to movement of the user interface assembly 20 in its
vertical plane of movement, this diagonal machine provides
resistance to motion in the plane of motion of the revolving arc 63
as well, by employing a second drive pulley--the revolving assembly
drive pulley 75--mounted on revolving arc 63, and or any part of
revolving assembly 15. Revolving assembly drive pulley 75 is
concentrically fixed on revolving axis 205--fixed to revolving arc
63 and/or other component(s) of revolving assembly 15. Revolving
assembly drive pulley 75 may be circular or cammed in shape. Drive
pulleys 65 and 75 are linked by the flexible linkage 67 routed
through redirectioning, tensioning, and differential pulleys, and
move resistance by way of the flexible linkage differential, as in
other embodiments. By providing resistance to revolution of
revolving assembly 15 about revolving axis 205, in addition to
resistance to revolution of user interface assembly 20 about its
axis of revolution 200 (thereby providing resistance about or
between two orthogonal axes of revolution), the diagonal machine
can provide full and equal resultant resistance to diagonal
movement of the extremity of a user in any plane (from vertical to
horizontal) of diagonal motion in relation to the user's body, in
both forward or backward directions.
[0189] Any of these multi-axis devices (including those employing
two independent revolving assemblies--or particularly those
employing a single unilateral revolving assembly) may employ a user
interface drive pulley 65 combined with an orthogonal revolving
assembly drive pulley 75 linked by a differential mechanism, by the
model of this diagonal embodiment. This model of orthogonal pulleys
linked by a flexible linkage differential or other mechanism,
provides full resultant resistance in any angular (i.e. diagonal)
plane between the orthogonal planes of the drive pulleys. This
mechanism can also be provided with dual weight stacks, one linked
to each drive pulley 65, 75.
12. X-Axis/Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0190] FIGS. 12a-e. illustrate the x-axis embodiment of the present
invention. The embodiment is named for the right and left shoulder
x-axis of a user seated in the user station 30 of the device, which
said right and left x-axis is aligned in (or approximately in) a
collinear relationship with the corresponding right and left
revolving axis 205, 206 of the device. The right and left axes of
rotation of the user interfaces 200, 201 intersect the
corresponding shoulder joints of the user during operation, and are
perpendicular to the corresponding right and left revolving axes
205, 206. This embodiment provides isolated shoulder resistance
exercise in any of the infinite radial planes of motion passing
through the x-axis of shoulder movement.
[0191] Like the y-axis embodiment previously described, this is a
non-concentric, bilateral, independent revolving arc mechanism (but
can be implemented with revolving arcs/assemblies that revolve
dependently). FIGS. 12d-f. illustrate the potential number of
angular planes of exercise (in edge-on orientation) that are
possible on this device. The x-axis embodiment employs two mirror
image non-concentric, revolving assembly structures 15a, 15b
mounted on the base of the device and/or mounted on fixed
structural elements of the frame at fixed points 18. Revolving
assembly structures 15a, 15b employ similar linkages to those
detailed in the y-axis embodiment. By employing two independent
mirror image revolving assemblies 15a, 15b, independent adjustment
of the plane of exercise is made possible for right and left user
interfaces.
[0192] Turning to FIG. 12a-b. in detail, number 10 designates the
exercise machine in accordance with the present invention. The
apparatus 10 comprises similar or identical: (1) user station/seat
30, (2) user interface assemblies 20a, 20b, arcuate guides 14a,
14b, (3) revolving arcs 63a, 63b, (4) booms 64a, 64b, (5) rollers
62, (6) revolving assemblies 15a, 15b, (7) flexible linkage
differential system, (8) flexible linkage tension mechanism, (9)
resistance mechanism/weight stack 16, and (10) fixed points 18, as
described previously for y-axis embodiment.
[0193] The difference between the x-axis and y-axis embodiments is
seen in the configuration of the revolving assemblies. The exercise
machine 10 comprises a right and left stationary arcuate guide 14a,
14b (in a vertical plane orientation instead of horizontal plane
orientation of arcuate guides in y-axis embodiment), the right and
left centerlines of which are horizontal (instead of vertical
orientation of y-axis device) and collinear with the x-axis of
motion of the corresponding right and left shoulder(s) of a user
positioned in the user station 30, and said centerlines are termed
the right and left revolving axes 205, 206 of revolving assemblies
15a, 15b.
[0194] As described for the y-axis embodiment, x-axis revolving
assemblies 15a, 15b may revolve independently, but also may be
statically fixed (i.e. by a locking mechanism) or dynamically fixed
(i.e. fixed during exercise by the user) in symmetric (mirror
image) or asymmetric planes of exercise. Adjustments are made for,
and exercise is performed on the x-axis embodiment in the same or
analogous way as for the y-axis embodiment.
13. Shoulder Rotation Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Employing
Revolving Arc Mechanism
[0195] FIGS. 13a-d. show the shoulder rotation multi-axis
resistance exercise embodiment. This machine provides
internal/external rotational resistance at any angle of
flexion-extension and/or abduction-adduction of the shoulder or
upper arm of a user in relation to the horizontal surface. The
x-axis of shoulder motion of a user positioned in the user
station/seat 30 is collinear with the revolving axis 205 of the
device. This is a unilateral revolving structure machine built on a
platform similar to that utilized in the x-axis embodiment,
including similar or identical: (1) arcuate guide 14, (2) revolving
arc 63, (3) boom 64, (4) user interface assembly 20, (5) revolving
assembly 15, (6) revolving arc locking mechanism 40, (7) flexible
linkage differential pulley mechanism, (8) fixed points 18, and (9)
user station/seat 30. Like other devices in this series, the axis
of rotation of the user interface 200 intersects the shoulder joint
of the user, and is perpendicular to the revolving axis 205.
[0196] The primary difference between the present embodiment and
the x-axis embodiment is the use of a novel user interface assembly
(or forearm interface member) 20, providing isolated resistance to
internal/external rotation of the shoulder joint. The
internal/external rotation user interface assembly 20 accommodates
the elbow and forearm proximally (by way of elbow pad 98), and the
hand distally (by way of user interface handle 28). The elbow pad
98 supports the elbow in approximately 90 degrees of flexion, and
aligns the axis of internal/external rotation of the shoulder joint
in collinear relationship with the user interface axis of rotation
200, at any angle of flexion-extension and or abduction-adduction
of the shoulder joint. (This embodiment can provide compound
resistance by incorporation of the revolving axis drive pulley 75,
as described for the diagonal shoulder resistance embodiment).
14. Center-Pivot Boom Design
[0197] A. Shoulder Rotation Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0198] B. Y-Axis/Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0199] A. An alternative method of providing revolving motion on
any of these devices is through the use of a center-pivot design.
FIGS. 14. A. 1-2. show a version of the shoulder rotation
multi-axis embodiment as in FIG. 13a., with the exception that a
length of standard tubing--a crossmember of t-junction 80--is the
tubular revolving arc 63. Revolving arc 63, like other revolving
arcs described, is concentric with the axis of revolution 205 of
the revolving assembly 15, and is mounted by way of bearings on
fixed structural element(s) of the device. As in all embodiments,
this revolving arc 63 meets the criteria that a drive component may
be embedded within said revolving arc 63. That is, the opening
within the revolving arc 63 can accommodate either drive
component(s) that may be fixed within, or drive component(s) that
may pass through said revolving arc 63, effectively providing
support, and or shielding, and or space for, and or permitting
passage of drive element(s). In this case, the drive components are
a flexible linkage/cable 67 (which passes through) and tangent
pivot tension pulley 3 (which is embedded or fixed within revolving
arc 63).
[0200] A fixed structural arc that is concentric with the revolving
axis 205 of the machine is employed as arcuate guide 14, providing
a continuous structural connection point to position revolving
assembly 15 by way of locking mechanism 40, in any of an infinite
number of selectable positions, thereby providing an infinite
number of planes of exercise. This design depends on at least one
pivot component, race bearings 22, centered on the revolving axis
205 to carry revolving arc 63 of the t-junction 80. Boom 64
depends/extends radially from revolving arc 63 at t-junction 80.
(Stationary races of race bearings 22 could be considered arcuate
guides for revolving arc 63 of t-junction 80 in this
embodiment).
[0201] The t-junction 80 design lends itself to embedding of drive
components (such as the tangent pivot tension pulley 3 and flexible
linkage 67) within stationary and revolving tubular structural
elements, streamlining exposed drive components and enhancing
safety of the embodiment. Note that the triangular polygonal array
150, composed of pivoting (i.e. race bearings 22) and locking
components (locking mechanism 40), provides multipoint structural
support in this embodiment.
[0202] B. FIG. 14. B. 1-2. shows the y-axis/multi-axis exercise
device concept implemented utilizing the center-pivot boom design.
The t-junction center pivot mechanism 80 is shown along with
polygonal array 150 providing triangular multipoint
conveying/structural support. This embodiment employs a right and
left arcuate guide 14a, 14b to which revolving assembly may be
repositionably attached by way of locking mechanism 40 as in FIG.
14. A. 1-2. As in previous embodiments, functional components in
drawings are substantially attached to base or fixed structural
elements of the device at fixed points 18.
15. Biceps/Triceps Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Center Pivot
Design
[0203] FIG. 15a-b. is the biceps/triceps multi-axis resistance
exercise device. This embodiment provides flexion or extension
resistance exercise for the elbow joint at any angle of
flexion-extension and/or abduction-adduction of the shoulder or
humerus. This embodiment employs bilateral, independent or
dependent revolving assemblies that are unique in the line.
Independent user interfaces can provide asymmetric, non-mirror
image axes of rotation 200, 201 of user interfaces during
operation, whereas dependent user interfaces generally provide
fixed or dynamic symmetric, mirror-image axes of rotation of user
interfaces during exercise. This device is unique in the series in
that the right and left revolving axes 205, 206 of the right and
left revolving assemblies 15a, 15b are approximately collinear with
the corresponding right and left z-axis of the shoulder joints of
the user, and the user interface axes of rotation 200, 201 pass
through the elbow joints of the user and are approximately parallel
to revolving axis 205.
[0204] By the model of previous embodiments, this device employs:
(1) arcuate guides 14a, 14b, (2) tubular revolving arcs 63a, 63b,
(3) booms 64a, 64b, (4) user interface assemblies 20a, 20b, (5)
revolving assemblies 15a, 15b, (6) revolving arc locking mechanisms
40a, 40b, and (7) flexible linkage differential mechanism.
Substantial connection of arcuate guides 14a, 14b and other parts
of the device to fixed structural elements are illustrated by fixed
points 18 as in previous embodiments. User station/seat 30 is
similar to that described previously as well.
[0205] Turning to FIG. 15a-b. in detail, number 10 designates the
exercise machine in accordance with the present invention. The
apparatus 10 comprises a base adapted to rest on a supporting
surface. Arcuate guides 14a, 14b are secured to the base or to
fixed structural element(s) at fixed points 18. In this
center-pivot design, right and left booms 64a, 64b depend/extend
radially from corresponding t-junctions 80a, 80b. The machine
illustrated is a center-pivot revolving design, although this
machine can interchangeably employ a revolving carrier/revolving
arc mechanism.
[0206] Right and left elbow support pads 91a, 91b are adjustably
fixed to corresponding right and left boom 64a, 64b by structural
elements (not shown) extending from said booms 64a, 64b. Elbow
support pads 91a, 91b are therefore automatically positioned to
support the elbows of the user during operation, at any possible
angle of the boom 64a, 64b and at any angle of forward flexion of
the positioned user's shoulder joint. Note that two different
positions of revolving assembly 15a, 15b are illustrated in the
side view in FIG. 15b. The first position (solid lines) is the
conventional bicep curl position illustrated in all other views of
the embodiment, with the shoulders of the user supported by elbow
support pads 91a, 91b forward-flexed to 45 degrees, and elbows
therefore substantially supported below the horizontal plane by
elbow support pads 91a, 91b during exercise. The second position
(dashed lines) brings the shoulder into relatively greater forward
flexion at an angle above 135 degrees supported in that position by
elbow support pads 91a, 91b, with the elbows of the user
substantially supported above the horizontal plane during exercise.
Elbow support pads 91a, 91b provide fixed full-range-of-motion
support to the elbows of the user at any angular position of the
shoulders of the user. Elbow support pads 91a, 91b provide fixed
full-range-of-motion support from an elbow-extended starting
position for bicep curl exercise, or conversely, from an
elbow-flexed starting position for tricep extensions as well.
[0207] As on other embodiments, boom 64a, 64b and corresponding
revolving assembly 15a, 15b can be revolved and locked in any
position along arcuate guide 14a, 14b by way of locking mechanism
40a, 40b. In order to exercise on this device, the user: (1) is
positioned in the user station 30 with z-axes of right and left
shoulders approximately collinear with corresponding revolving axes
205, 206, (2) adjusts right and left revolving assembly 15a, 15b to
the desired angle of shoulder flexion-extension for exercise by way
of corresponding right and left locking mechanism 40a, 40b, (3)
places right and left elbows on corresponding right and left elbow
support pads 91a, 91b, (4) grasps user interface handles 28a, 28b,
and (5) pushes or pulls the user interface assembly 20a, 20b
through a range of elbow motion.
[0208] By this model of machine design and of exercise, an
analogous lower body exercise machine may be implemented in which:
(1) the revolving axis of the machine is parallel to the axis of
rotation of the user interfaces; (2) the revolving axis of the
machine is concentric with the flexion/extension axis of the hip
joint; and (3) the axis of rotation of the user interfaces
intersect the knee joints and are collinear with the axis of
flexion/extension of the knee. Further, this bicep/tricep
multi-axis device (or analogous lower body device) may employ a
revolving axis drive pulley 75 which can be linked to the user
interface drive pulley 65 by a differential mechanism, by the model
of the shoulder diagonal multi-axis device. In this unique
embodiment, drive pulleys have parallel planes of rotation, as
opposed to orthogonal planes of rotation as described in the
shoulder diagonal multi-axis embodiment.
16. Compound Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Bilateral Narrow Diameter
Revolving Arcs and Midline Arcuate Guide
[0209] FIGS. 16a-b. show a multi-axis compound device constructed
by the narrow diameter revolving arc model of the y-axis and x-axis
devices. The revolving arcs in this embodiment are concentric with
one another, with the revolving axis 205, and with the z-axis of
shoulder movement of the user positioned in the user station 30.
Although this embodiment is illustrated employing compound shoulder
resistance, the design can be implemented with an isolated shoulder
resistance mechanism as well.
[0210] This narrow diameter revolving arc embodiment provides the
identical infinite planes of exercise and independent user
interfaces as the compound concentric shaft drive mechanism
described previously, and can accommodate a concentric shaft user
interface drive mechanism as well. The u-shaped boom design 64 is
positioned and disengageably fixed along the midline arcuate guide
14 by way of locking mechanism 40, by the model of Gautier 2008,
and both straddles user station 30, and pivots on either side of
user station 30. This provides multipoint structural stability
through triangular polygonal support 150 to the overhead or drive
assembly 11 and to the axis of rotation of the user interfaces 200,
201 when the overhead or drive assembly is locked in position along
the arcuate guide 14. Adjustments and operation of the device are
the same as for the compound concentric shaft device described
previously.
[0211] The bilateral lifting pulley (65a, 65b) design illustrated
in FIG. 16a-b.--showing right and left lifting pulley 65a, 65b on
corresponding right and left sides of the boom 64 (i.e. bilateral
lifting pulleys)--is optimal for a dual weight stack system,
although a differential system may be implemented that provides
full and equal, independent movement and resistance to user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b, employing a single weight stack. The
open revolving arc design permits/facilitates routing of flexible
linkage in any direction, through the narrow diameter revolving arc
63a, 63b and through arcuate guide 14a, 14b toward the user station
30, and routed to opposite side of machine for single weight stack
embodiment; or routed through revolving arc and away from the user
station 30 on both sides of the machine, for a dual weight stack
system. Therefore, by virtue of this revolving arc system, single
or dual weight stacks can be employed. This embodiment can also be
implemented with a z-axis isolated multi-axis resistance mechanism,
a free flexible linkage mechanism, and other exercise
mechanisms.
17. Compound Multi-Axis Exercise Device--Bilateral Center Pivot
Design and Midline Arcuate Guide
[0212] FIG. 17a-b. shows a multi-axis compound device constructed
by the center pivot boom model. The revolving axis 205 of revolving
assembly 15 is concentric with the z-axis of shoulder movement of
the user positioned in the user station 30. Although this
embodiment is illustrated employing compound shoulder resistance,
the design can be implemented with isolated shoulder resistance as
well. This center pivot compound exercise embodiment provides the
identical infinite planes of exercise and independent user
interfaces, and can accommodate a concentric shaft drive mechanism
as in the compound device described previously.
[0213] In this design, a u-shaped boom 64, is positioned and
disengageably fixed along a midline arcuate guide 14 by way of
locking mechanism 40, in a manner similar to that of Gautier 2008.
U-shaped boom 64 straddles user station 30, and is rotatable around
user station 30 via its connection on either side of user station
30 to tubular revolving arcs 63. This provides multipoint stability
through triangular polygonal support 150 to the overhead or drive
assembly 11 and to the axis of rotation of the user interfaces 200,
201. Adjustments and operation of the device are the same as for
the compound concentric shaft device described previously.
[0214] The bilateral lifting pulley (65a, 65b) design illustrated
in FIG. 17a-b.--showing right and left lifting pulley 65a, 65b on
corresponding right and left sides of the boom 64 (i.e. bilateral
lifting pulleys)--is optimal for a dual weight stack system,
although a differential system may be implemented that provides
full and equal, independent movement and resistance to user
interface assemblies 20a, 20b, employing a single weight stack. The
open revolving arc design permits/facilitates routing of flexible
linkage in any direction, through the tubular revolving arc 63 and
through bearing 22 toward the user station 30, and routed to
opposite side of machine for a flexible linkage differential/single
weight stack embodiment; or routed through tubular revolving arc 63
and away from the user station 30 (as illustrated) on both sides of
the machine, for a dual or bilateral weight stack system.
Therefore, by virtue of this tubular revolving arc system, single
or dual weight stacks can be employed. This embodiment can also be
implemented with a z-axis isolated multi-axis resistance mechanism,
a free flexible linkage mechanism, and other exercise
mechanisms.
[0215] FIG. 17a-b illustrate fixed plane tension pulley 72 and
tangent pivot tension pulley 71 routing mechanisms on right and
left sides of the machine respectively. Note that no revolving arc
is implemented in the fixed plane tension pulley mechanism 72 on
right side of machine. Note also that the flexible linkage 67 on
the left side of the machine may be routed in the opposite
direction along the revolving axis 205 in the illustration, that
is, flexible linkage 67 may be routed toward the user station 30
and through the boom 64 and race bearing 22.
18. Continuous-Loop Revolving Arc and Boom Structure
[0216] Booms of most previous embodiments can be described as being
radially fixed to a circular revolving arc. In order to optimize
structural strength and stability, and to minimize materials and
cost, the revolving arc and boom may be formed as a continuous,
closed-loop structure. FIG. 18a. shows a continuous-loop revolving
arc/boom structure 160 comprised by an open revolving arc 163, and
a projected loop of structural material 164 from the arc, which
projected loop 164 constitutes the entirety of the boom in this
illustration. This structure may be strengthened by bridge braces
106 spanning the parallel structural elements of the boom, and/or
with spokes 82 spanning the revolving arc, as in FIG. 18b-c.
[0217] FIGS. 18d-f. show other possible continuous-loop revolving
arc/boom structures 160 in which the projected loop of structural
material/tubing from the open revolving arc 163 may constitute any
portion of the length of the boom, and/or said projected loop of
structural material may take any of a multitude of different
shapes. The proportion of the boom that comprises the loop of
structural material from the revolving arc 163 may be varied based
on the structural demands of the specific embodiment. For example,
in embodiments requiring greater structural strength, the loop may
constitute the entire boom, whereas, in embodiments with lighter
structural demands, it is advantageous to employ a lighter boom
structure and smaller projected loop. As is illustrated, a single
structural element 64 is employed to complete the length of the
boom 164/64 in these embodiments.
[0218] The continuous-loop revolving arc/boom is an acentric
structural element design, that is, the structural elements are
offset from the radial 300 passing from the axis of revolution 205
to the overhead or drive assembly 11. This two-structural-element
boom design provides significantly more stability to the overhead
or drive assembly 11 than a single-element design. From an
engineering perspective, this design increases structural strength
and enables the use of much lighter structural materials. In
addition, this acentric structural element design also provides
space for drive components (i.e. pulleys, flexible linkages,
gearing, shaft drives, etc.) which must be routed in the midline of
conventional structural elements. Drilling, cutting, and/or
punching material from structural elements (in order to position
and mount drive components) weakens structural support. An acentric
structural element boom design eliminates the need for material
removal when routing midline drive components.
[0219] The continuous-loop revolving arc/boom concept can be
applied to enhance both wide and narrow revolving arc and boom
structures. FIG. 18g-h. shows the continuous revolving arc/boom
concept applied to a generic x-axis boom, and this concept may be
applied to any embodiment of this invention.
19. Compact Revolving Arc Design--With Twin Unilateral Narrow
Diameter Revolving Arcs
[0220] FIG. 19a-b. shows a free flexible linkage device designed by
a compact model. Notice that the narrow diameter revolving arcs
63a, 63b in this embodiment are parallel and concentric, and are
supported by generally symmetric structural elements about the
weight stack, resulting in a very compact and sturdy structural
design. This is a narrow diameter revolving arc and radial boom
structure built by the model of the x-axis and y-axis narrow
revolving arc devices. Notice as well that this structure has
polygonal bases of support at right angle to each other (i.e. a
triangular base 150, and a decagonal base 155), providing maximal
structural stability.
[0221] The compact structural design can be strengthened by
constructing the boom by the continuous-loop revolving arc/boom
model, as in FIG. 19c-d. This is the acentric structural element
design described previously. When compared to FIG. 19a-b, this
four-structural-element radial boom design provides significantly
more stability to the overhead or drive assembly 11 than single
elements and it provides space for drive components (i.e. pulleys,
flexible linkages, gearing, shaft drives, etc.) which must be
routed in the midline of conventional structural elements, as
discussed previously. Notice as well in FIG. 19c-d that this
structure has polygonal bases of support at right angle to each
other (i.e. a triangular base 150, and a decagonal base 155),
providing maximal structural stability.
20. Telescoping Revolving Arc
[0222] FIG. 20a-b. shows a revolving arc structure 63 that is
captured by a substantial supporting element or arcuate guide 14,
through which the revolving arc telescopes. This is a
gliding/sliding type revolving mechanism which provides a true
arcuate sliding surface for revolving motion of the revolving
assembly 15, as described in Gautier 2008. A combination of sliding
and previously described rolling mechanisms may also be employed
for conveying the revolving arc 63.
21. Electromechanical Resistance Mechanism
[0223] On devices previously described, an electromechanical
mechanism can be employed anywhere a drive pulley is employed in
the drive system. (All embodiments of the present invention can be
built to utilize this resistance mechanism). This resistance
mechanism lends itself to computerization and instrumentation. FIG.
21a. shows an example of an electromechanical resistance mechanism
165 employed on a z-axis device. This embodiment utilizes 2
independent electromechanical drives 165, as well as angle-gearing
mechanisms 99a, 99b as described previously. FIG. 21b. Shows a
z-axis device employing a differential drive 66, angle-gearing
mechanisms 99a, 99b, and a single electromechanical drive 165.
Compound, free cable, and other embodiments can also be built by
this model. FIG. 21c-d. shows an example of an electromechanical
resistance mechanism 165 employed on a shoulder diagonal multi-axis
exercise device. Note that an electromechanical drive is employed
on the revolving axis 205 of the device for resistance in a plane
of motion perpendicular to the plane of motion and resistance
provided by the user interface assembly 20. Y-axis, x-axis, and
other embodiments can also be built, by this model. Utilizing this
design, complex planes and complex combinations of planes of motion
can be produced, and/or replicated, and/or programmed for a given
user for the purpose of fitness, performance enhancement, and/or
injury prevention or injury rehabilitation.
22. Infinite Revolving Axes/Multi-Axis Exercise Device
[0224] Whereas exercise devices previously described provide
resisted motion in an infinite number of planes of exercise radial
to only a single axis of shoulder motion, FIG. 22. shows an
embodiment of the present invention that provides an infinite
number of planes of exercise about any of an infinite number of
axes of shoulder motion.
[0225] This infinite revolving axis functionality is provided by
integration of the functionality of the narrow diameter revolving
arc design and the wide diameter revolving arc design, each
described in detail previously. Each revolving arc in this
embodiment may operate independently of the others. This embodiment
is illustrated employing an electromechanical resistance mechanism
165 (although other resistance mechanisms can be used, including a
flexible linkage selectorized mechanism as in the preferred and
other embodiments).
23. Radial Axis Revolving Arc--Infinite Revolving Axes/Multi-Axis
Exercise Device
[0226] A second infinite revolving axes/multi-axis exercise device
embodiment is one that employs a revolving arc that revolves not on
the center axis of the geometric arc of said revolving arc, but on
a line radial to the geometric arc of said revolving arc. This
revolving arc mechanism provides identical infinite radial axes of
infinite radial planes of exercise to the embodiment above. FIG.
23a-c. shows a radial axis revolving arc embodiment. Note that the
revolving arc pivots on a line that is collinear with a radial
(i.e. the radius) of the geometric arc of said revolving arc.
24. Single Fixed Axis and Plane of Motion Devices
[0227] Each multi-axis machine described here can be used as a
model for a group of strength training devices, each unit in each
group providing a single fixed axis and plane of compound, x-axis,
y-axis, z-axis, bicep/tricep, diagonal, rotational, or other
infinite array of axes (radial, parallel, etc.) of joint motion.
Each of these groups of devices is patentable separately from the
multi-axis devices because: [0228] 1. each of these groups of
devices specifically provides a novel group of planes of exercise
(radial or parallel), that have not been available before; [0229]
2. these planes of exercise have not been available on devices
employing the fulcrum-flexible-linkage, free-flexible-linkage,
direct differential drive, or concentric shaft mechanisms; [0230]
3. these single fixed plane radial or parallel plane shoulder
motion devices are designed by the same principles and constructed
utilizing similar functional mechanisms as the multi-axis devices;
[0231] 4. and the multiple planes of exercise provided by each
group of single fixed plane devices (just as provided by each
single multi-axis embodiment) are required to implement this novel
multiple plane strength training method (i.e. multiple or infinite
plane resistance exercise).
[0232] Thus, as the foregoing makes clear, my invention generally
comprehends all exercise apparatus and systems where a user
interface member has a point of attachment to the apparatus that is
positionable at different locations along an arcuate path
determined, dictated and/or supported/braced by an arcuate guide,
as well as numerous additional and subsidiary exercise device
concepts. In addition, and as the foregoing should also make clear,
numerous additional variations can be made without exceeding the
inventive concept. Moreover, various of the above-disclosed and
other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be
desirably combined into many other different systems or
applications. Also, various presently unforeseen or unanticipated
alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may
be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also
intended to be encompassed by the claims.
* * * * *