U.S. patent application number 14/876290 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-14 for resistance selector for exercise apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ryan Workman.
Application Number | 20160101311 14/876290 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55654743 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160101311 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Workman; Ryan |
April 14, 2016 |
Resistance Selector for Exercise Apparatus
Abstract
An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a guide member coupled
with a portion of the frame, a weight stack including a plurality
of weight plates associated with the guide member and a lifting
mechanism. The lifting mechanism has a first end attached to a pull
handle and a second end being attached to a weight attachment
mechanism. Further, a resistance selector has a pin coupled to the
weight attachment mechanism and is displaceable between a first
position and a second position relative to the weight attachment
mechanism. When the pin is in the first position the weight
attachment mechanism is interlocked with a plate of the weight
stack and when the pin is in the second position the weight
attachment mechanism is freed from the weight plate and the pin has
an engagement structure that is shaped to interlock with a profile
of an edge of the plate.
Inventors: |
Workman; Ryan; (Logan,
UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
ICON Health & Fitness, Inc. |
Logan |
UT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55654743 |
Appl. No.: |
14/876290 |
Filed: |
October 6, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62063284 |
Oct 13, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/98 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/156 20130101;
A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B 2071/0683 20130101; A63B 21/4043
20151001; A63B 21/063 20151001; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B
21/4035 20151001; A63B 2220/17 20130101; A63B 24/0087 20130101;
A63B 2220/51 20130101; A63B 21/0058 20130101; A63B 2225/50
20130101; A63B 2220/31 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/062 20060101
A63B021/062; A63B 23/12 20060101 A63B023/12; A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame; at least one guide
member coupled with a portion of the frame; a weight stack
including a plurality of weight plates associated with the at least
one guide member; a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having
a first end attached to a pull handle and a second end being
attached to an weight attachment mechanism; and a resistance
selector having a pin coupled to the weight attachment mechanism
and configured to be displaced between at least a first position
and a second position relative to the weight attachment mechanism,
wherein when the pin is in the first position the weight attachment
mechanism is interlocked with at least one plate of the weight
stack and when the pin is in the second position the weight
attachment mechanism is freed from the weight plates and wherein
the pin comprises an engagement structure that is shaped to
interlock with a profile of an edge of the at least one plate.
2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the profile of the
edge has a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement
structure.
3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the engagement
structure is shaped to connect with an angled face of the edge.
4. The exercise apparatus of claim 1, wherein the engagement
structure is shaped to connect with an overhang of the edge.
5. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame; at least one guide
member coupled with a portion of the frame; a weight stack
including a plurality of weight plates associated with the at least
one guide member; a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having
a first end attached to a pull handle and a second end being
attached to an weight attachment mechanism; and a resistance
selector having a pin coupled to the weight attachment mechanism
and configured to be displaced between at least a first position
and a second position relative to the weight attachment mechanism,
wherein when the pin is in the first position the weight attachment
mechanism is interlocked with at least one plate of the weight
stack and when the pin is in the second position the weight
attachment mechanism is freed from the weight plates and wherein an
engagement structure connected to the pin is configured to be
rotated within the opening of the at least one plate to interlock
with the at least one plate.
6. The exercise apparatus of claim 5, wherein the engagement
structure is positioned to be lowered and raised through the
opening formed through the weight stack.
7. The exercise apparatus of claim 5, wherein the engagement
structure is configured to be rotated about an axis that is aligned
with a length of the pin.
8. The exercise apparatus of claim 5, wherein the engagement
structure is configured to be rotated about an axis that is
transverse with a length of the pin.
9. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame; at least one guide
member coupled with the frame; a weight stack including a plurality
of weight plates associated with the at least one guide member; a
lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having a first end
attached to a pull handle and a second end being attached to an
weight attachment mechanism; and a resistance selector having a pin
coupled to the weight attachment mechanism and configured to be
displaced between at least a first position and a second position
relative to the weight attachment mechanism; the pin being rigidly
secured to at least a portion of a rail; wherein when the pin and
the rail move collectively into the first position the weight
attachment mechanism is interlocked with at least one plate of the
weight stack and when the pin and the rail collectively move into
the second position the weight attachment mechanism is freed from
the weight plates.
10. The exercise apparatus of claim 9, wherein the rail is shaped
to interlock with a second plate of the weight stack when the pin
is interlocked with the at least one plate.
11. The exercise apparatus of claim 10, wherein the second plate is
a top plate of the weight stack.
12. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the at least the
portion of the rail is configured to telescopically extend and
retract.
13. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least one
feature of the rail and the pin are positioned to interlock with
plates of the weight stack simultaneously.
14. The exercise apparatus of claim 11, wherein the pin comprises
an engagement structure that is shaped to interlock with a profile
of an edge of the at least one plate.
15. The exercise apparatus of claim 14, wherein the profile of the
edge has a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement
structure.
16. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame; at least one guide
member coupled with a portion of the frame; a weight stack
including a plurality of weight plates associated with the at least
one guide member; a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having
a first end attached to a pull handle and a second end being
attached to an weight attachment mechanism; a resistance selector
having a pin coupled to the weight attachment mechanism and
configured to be displaced between at least a first position and a
second position relative to the weight attachment mechanism; and a
handle connected to the pin, the handle comprising a hinge joint
and cam surface; wherein when the pin is in the first position the
weight attachment mechanism is interlocked with at least one plate
of the weight stack and when the pin is in the second position the
weight attachment mechanism is freed from the weight plates.
17. The exercise apparatus of claim 16, wherein when the pin is in
the first position the handle is in a substantially vertical
position and when the pin is in the second position the handle is
in a substantially horizontal position.
18. The exercise apparatus of claim 16, wherein the pin comprises
an engagement structure that is shaped to interlock with a profile
of an edge of the at least one plate.
19. The exercise apparatus of claim 18, wherein the profile of the
edge has a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement
structure.
20. The exercise apparatus of claim 18, wherein the engagement
structure is shaped to connect with an angled face of the edge.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application
Ser. No. 62/063,284 titled "Resistance Selector for Exercise
Apparatus" and filed on 13 Oct. 2014, which application is herein
incorporated by reference for all that it discloses.
BACKGROUND
[0002] There are numerous types of apparatuses and devices that are
configured to help individuals exercise and maintain a desired
level of health and fitness. Some of such apparatuses and devices
are more specifically used for strength training. Many strength
training apparatuses are configured to provide selective resistance
so that a user of the apparatus may appropriately alter and tailor
their exercise regimen. For example, when the apparatus is used by
multiple users, each individual using the apparatus may be at a
different strength level and need to adjust the resistance
according to their specific capabilities. Also, as an individual
gets stronger, they often desire to increase the resistance
provided by the apparatus so as to maintain or increase the
intensity of their workout.
[0003] Additionally, many strength training apparatuses are
configured to accommodate different types of exercises so that a
user can target different muscle groups based on the selection of
exercises the user participates in. For example, a strength
training apparatus may enable an individual to alternate between
presses, curls, pull-downs or a variety of other exercises while
using the same basic resistance mechanism. In order to accommodate
such a variety of exercises, the resistance mechanism is typically
configured to provide selective resistance because most users do
not perform, for example, presses, curls and pull downs using the
same amount of resistance for each exercise.
[0004] A relatively popular type of apparatus used for strength
training includes those which employ a plurality of stacked weight
plates. Each weight plate conventionally weighs a specified
denomination (e.g., 5 pounds or 10 pounds). Thus, for example,
assuming that each weight plate is 10 pounds, selection of a single
weight plate results in a resistance of 10 pounds, while selection
of 4 weight plates results in a resistance of 40 pounds.
[0005] In these exercise devices, a cable is led through a pulley,
or often a series of pulleys, and is attached to one or more of the
weight plates. Conventionally, the free end of the cable is coupled
to a handle or other apparatus for engagement by a user during
exercise. The pulley and cable assembly is also coupled with a
structure, such as a selector rod associated with the weight stack,
that enables the user to define the level of desired resistance.
The selector rod conventionally passes through a channel that is
collectively defined by aligned apertures formed in each of the
plurality of stacked weight plates. The selector rod also
conventionally has a plurality of longitudinally spaced apertures
extending transversely through the rod that are configured to align
with corresponding channels or openings formed in each weight
plate. A selector pin is placed through a selected weight plate and
engages the corresponding aperture of the selector rod such that,
when the selector rod is displaced by the attached cable and pulley
system, the selector pin causes the engaged weight plate, as well
as any weight plates disposed thereabove, to be displaced along
with the selector rod. Thus, by inserting the selector pin in the
aperture of a specific weight plate, the desired level of
resistance is selected.
[0006] The use of selector pins with weight stacks of an exercise
apparatus has been relatively efficient and effective in terms of
enabling multiple users to use the same machine as well as enabling
individual users to use a single machine for a variety of different
exercises. In certain situations, however, the use of a selector
pin such as described above may pose a hazard to the user of the
exercise apparatus. For example, sometimes a user of the apparatus
may only partially engage the selector pin with the selector rod.
In such instances, the selector pin may become disengaged during an
exercise routine causing the weight plates to fall and essentially
eliminating all resistance instantaneously. Such a situation may
potentially result in injury to the user of the equipment, damage
to the equipment itself or both. In other instances, when the
selector pin is only partially engaged, it may unduly protrude from
the weight stack such that it impacts a portion of the exercise
equipment (e.g., a structural support member) and bends or
otherwise damages the selector pin.
[0007] Additionally, strength training apparatuses using weight
stacks and selector pin arrangements are popular in gyms and
fitness centers where multiple types and multiple brands of such
strength training apparatuses are used. Oftentimes, the selector
pins used in these various apparatuses get lost, essentially
rendering the exercise equipment useless. When a selector pin for
one piece of equipment is missing, a user may "borrow" a selector
pin from another apparatus. However, not every exercise apparatus
utilizes a common selector pin. Thus, selector pins may vary in
size, shape and strength from one apparatus to another. While, to a
user of the exercise equipment, it may seem logical to "borrow" a
selector pin from one apparatus for use with another, the use of a
selector pin that is an improper size or shape, or which may be
designed to withstand a lesser exertion of force than will be
imposed on it when employed with an unmatched apparatus, poses
potential hazards including those described above.
[0008] The present invention, as described below, provides an
exercise apparatus having a resistance selector mechanism that
reduces or eliminates the ability of users to interchange
components of one machine with another. Additionally, components
are provided that reduce or eliminate the likelihood of
interchanging components of one exercise apparatus with another in
an undesirable manner. Further, a selector mechanism is provided
that helps to ensure that a selector pin or structure is more fully
engaged with the desired components prior to a user operating the
associated exercise apparatus.
SUMMARY
[0009] In one aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus
includes a frame.
[0010] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes at least one guide member coupled with a portion of the
frame.
[0011] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a weight stack including a plurality of weight plates
associated with at least one guide member.
[0012] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having a first
end attached to a pull handle and a second end being attached to an
weight attachment mechanism.
[0013] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a resistance selector having a pin coupled to the weight
attachment mechanism and configured to be displaced between at
least a first position and a second position relative to the weight
attachment mechanism.
[0014] In one aspect of the invention, when the pin is in the first
position the weight attachment mechanism is interlocked with at
least one plate of the weight stack and when the pin is in the
second position the weight attachment mechanism is freed from the
weight plate and wherein the pin comprises an engagement structure
that is shaped to interlock with a profile of an edge of at least
one plate.
[0015] In one aspect of the invention, the profile of the edge has
a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement structure.
[0016] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
shaped to connect with an angled face of the edge.
[0017] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
shaped to connect with an overhang of the edge.
[0018] In one aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus
includes a frame.
[0019] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes at least one guide member coupled with a portion of the
frame.
[0020] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a weight stack including a plurality of weight plates
associated with at least one guide member.
[0021] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having a first
end attached to a pull handle and a second end being attached to an
weight attachment mechanism.
[0022] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a resistance selector having a pin coupled to the weight
attachment mechanism and configured to be displaced between at
least a first position and a second position relative to the weight
attachment mechanism.
[0023] In one aspect of the invention, when the pin is in the first
position the weight attachment mechanism is interlocked with at
least one plate of the weight stack and when the pin is in the
second position the weight attachment mechanism is freed from the
weight plate and wherein the engagement structure is configured to
be rotated within the opening to interlock with at least one
plate.
[0024] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
positioned to be lowered and raised through an opening formed
through the weight stack.
[0025] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
configured to be rotated about an axis that is aligned with a
length of the pin.
[0026] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
configured to be rotated about an axis that is transverse with a
length of the pin.
[0027] In one aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus
include a frame.
[0028] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes at least one guide member coupled with a portion of the
frame.
[0029] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a weight stack including a plurality of weight plates
associated with at least one guide member.
[0030] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having a first
end attached to a pull handle and a second end being attached to an
weight attachment mechanism.
[0031] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a resistance selector having a pin coupled to the weight
attachment mechanism and configured to be displaced between at
least a first position and a second position relative to the weight
attachment mechanism.
[0032] In one aspect of the invention, the pin is rigidly secured
to at least a portion of the rail.
[0033] In one aspect of the invention, when the pin and the rail
move collectively into a first position the weight attachment
mechanism is interlocked with at least one plate of the weight
stack and when the pin and the rail collective move into a second
position the weight attachment mechanism is freed from the weight
plate.
[0034] In one aspect of the invention, the rail is shaped to
interlock with a second plate of the weight stack when the pin is
interlocked with at least one plate.
[0035] In one aspect of the invention, the second plate is a top
plate of the weight stack.
[0036] In one aspect of the invention, at least a portion of the
rail is configured to telescopically extend and retract.
[0037] In one aspect of the invention, at least one feature of the
rail and the pin are positioned to interlock with plates of the
weight stack simultaneously.
[0038] In one aspect of the invention, the pin comprises an
engagement structure that is shaped to interlock with a profile of
an edge of at least one plate.
[0039] In one aspect of the invention, the profile of the edge has
a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement structure.
[0040] In one aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus
includes at least one guide member coupled with a portion of the
frame.
[0041] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a weight stack including a plurality of weight plates
associated with at least one guide member.
[0042] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a lifting mechanism, the lifting mechanism having a first
end attached to a pull handle and a second end being attached to an
weight attachment mechanism.
[0043] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a resistance selector having a pin coupled to the weight
attachment mechanism and configured to be displaced between at
least a first position and a second position relative to the weight
attachment mechanism.
[0044] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus
includes a handle connected to the pin, the handle comprising a
hinge joint and cam surface.
[0045] In one aspect of the invention, when the pin is in the first
position the weight attachment mechanism is interlocked with at
least one plate of the weight stack and when the pin is in the
second position the weight attachment mechanism is freed from the
weight plate.
[0046] In one aspect of the invention, when the pin is in the first
position the handle is in a substantially vertical position and
when the pin is in the second position the handle is in a
substantially horizontal position.
[0047] In one aspect of the invention, the pin comprises an
engagement structure that is shaped to interlock with a profile of
an edge of at least one plate.
[0048] In one aspect of the invention, the profile of the edge has
a cutout complementary to a shape of the engagement structure.
[0049] In one aspect of the invention, the engagement structure is
shaped to connect with an angled face of the edge.
[0050] Any of the aspects of the invention detailed above may be
combined with any other aspect of the invention detailed
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of
the present apparatus and are a part of the specification. The
illustrated embodiments are merely examples of the present
apparatus and do not limit the scope thereof.
[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of an exercise apparatus
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a weight stack and
resistance selector according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0054] FIG. 3A illustrates an elevational side view of a portion of
a resistance selector in accordance with various embodiments of the
present invention with resistance selector in engaged.
[0055] FIG. 3B illustrates an elevational side view of a portion of
a resistance selector in accordance with various embodiments of the
present invention with resistance selector in disengaged.
[0056] FIG. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a
resistance selector in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention wherein the selector is in an engaged state.
[0057] FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a
resistance selector in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention wherein the selector is in an disengaged state.
[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a weight plate used
with a resistance selector in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0059] FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a resistance
selector and weight stack, from beneath, in an engaged state in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0060] FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a resistance
selector and weight stack, from beneath, in an engaged state in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0061] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an exercise apparatus
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0062] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial side view of an engagement
member interlocking with an edge of a plate according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0063] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial side view of an engagement
member interlocking with an edge of a plate according to one
embodiment of the present invention.
[0064] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a pin and a rail
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a
resistance selector in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention wherein the selector is in an engaged state.
[0066] FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of a pin and a
weight stack in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0067] FIG. 12B illustrates a top view of a pin and a weight stack
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0068] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of a pin and a weight stack
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an exercise apparatus
according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers
designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0071] Referring to FIG. 1, an exercise apparatus 100 is shown that
includes a frame 102 having a base configured to support the
apparatus 100 on an underlying surface. A cable and pulley system
106 is coupled with the frame. In one embodiment, the cable and
pulley system 106 may be operably associated with a resistance
selector 110. The resistance selector 110 is configured to be
selectively coupled with one or more components of a variable,
selective resistance system which may include a weight stack 112 as
shall be discussed in further detail herein below. The weight stack
112 may include a plurality of individual weight members, such as
plates 114, having a desired mass. For example, in one embodiment,
each of the plates 114 may weigh approximately 10 pounds (lbs.). In
another example, each of the plates 114 may weigh approximately 5
lbs. In another embodiment, some of the plates 114 may be one
weight (e.g., 5 lbs.) while others have a different weight (e.g.,
10 lbs.).
[0072] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the cable and pulley
system 106 includes a first cable 116 having a handle 118 or other
structure attached to one end thereof. The first cable 116 extends
through a first pulley 120A and is coupled with a fixed structure
122 associated with the frame 102. The first pulley 120A is coupled
with a linear bearing structure 124 positioned on a guide member
126 that is coupled to the frame 102. A second cable has a first
end that is coupled with the linear bearing structure 124, extends
through additional pulleys 120B and 120C, and has a second end
coupled with the resistance selector 110. In the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1, the resistance selector 110 is disposed, at
least partially, within an open channel formed by the alignment of
individual apertures of each weight plate 114 as shall be described
in further detail below.
[0073] The weight plates 114 are each slidably coupled with one or
more guide members 130, such as guide rods, that are coupled with
the frame 104. As will be apparent upon further reading of the
description of the operation of the resistance selector 110, when
the resistance selector 110 is engaged with one or more weight
plates 114 of the weight stack 112, the resistance selector 110 and
the engaged weight plates 114 can be displaced along the path
defined by the guide members 130 concurrently with the displacement
of any engaged weight plates 114 along the path defined by their
associated guide members 130.
[0074] It is noted that, in the various example embodiments, two
guide members 130 are shown and described as being associated with
the weight stack 112. However, a single guide member 130, or a
plurality of guide members 130 greater than two, may be associated
with the weight stack 112 in other embodiments of the present
invention.
[0075] During use of the apparatus 100, a user pulls on the handle
118 to actuate the cable and pulley system 106. When the handle 118
is displaced sufficiently downwardly or laterally away from the
frame 104 (or both downwardly and laterally away from the frame
104), the first cable 116 causes the linear bearing structure 124
to be downwardly displaced along its associated guide member 130.
This in turn causes the second cable 128 to be displaced causing
the resistance selector 110, with which it is coupled, and any
weight plates 114 of the weight stack 112 that are engaged by the
resistance selector 110, to be displaced upwardly along their
associated guide members 130.
[0076] It is noted that the apparatus 100 described with respect to
FIG. 1 is merely an example and that the present invention may be
used in conjunction with a variety of configurations, regardless of
the number of pulleys and cables or the specific arrangement of the
various components. Additionally, rather than a handle 118, a
connecting structure may be coupled to the first cable 116 such
that the first cable may be coupled with an actuation device. As
such, and as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, the
apparatus 100 described with respect to FIG. 1 should not be
considered limiting to the practice of the presently disclosed
invention.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B, a resistance
selector 110 is shown in greater detail. FIG. 2 shows a perspective
view the of the resistance selector 110 in relationship to a weight
stack 112. FIGS. 3A and 3B show a side view of the resistance
selector in two different states of operation. FIGS. 4A and 4B are
enlarged perspective views of certain components of the resistance
selector 110 in different states. As previously noted, the weight
stack 112 may include a plurality of discrete plates 114 that are
slidably coupled to guide members 130. For example, two guide
members 130 (FIG. 1) may each extend through corresponding openings
132 in the weight plates 114. In this manner, the guide members 130
act as linear bearings for the displacement of the weight plates
114.
[0078] The resistance selector 110 may include a body portion 134
configured to slide or be displaced relative to one or more rails
136. In one particular embodiment, a pair of rails 136 may be
configured to fit within a longitudinal extending channel formed in
the rail or between multiple rails. The body portion 134 may be
positioned between the rails 136 and configured to slide within the
longitudinal extending channel. The body portion 134 of the
resistance selector 110 may be moved along the longitudinal
extending channel to a desired location that corresponds with a
desired amount of resistance. At such a location the resistance
selector 110 may have components that interlock with the weight
plate 114 at the desired location. In some examples, the components
of the resistance selector 110 may interlock with both the rail 136
and the corresponding weight plate 114 simultaneously. Thus, as the
user applies a force to the cable and pulley system 106, the rail
136 and the interlocked weight plate, and the other plates
superjacent the interlocked plate move together.
[0079] A bracket 138, bracket assembly or other structure may be
coupled to the rails 136 and may also be coupled to the uppermost
weight plate 114 of the stack of weight plates 114. In one
embodiment, a pulley 140 may be rotationally coupled to the bracket
138 and configured to engage a cable of the cable and pulley system
106 such that, when the cable and pulley system 106 is actuated,
the resistance selector 110 (and any weight plate engaged thereby)
is displaced by such actuation.
[0080] A pin 142 or other structure may be slidably coupled with
the body portion 134. For example, in one embodiment, the pin 142
may slide relative to the body 134 in a direction that is
substantially transverse to the direction which the body 134 slides
relative to the rail or rails 136. In other embodiments the pin 142
may slide relative to the body 134 at other angles relative to the
sliding direction of the body 134.
[0081] A handle 144 may be coupled with the pin 142 to accommodate
selective displacement of the pin 142 by a user of the exercise
apparatus 100. For example, a user may apply a force to the handle
144 to effect displacement of the pin 142 from a first position,
which may be referred to as an engaged position or state (see FIGS.
3A and 4A), to a second position, which may be referred to as an
retracted or disengaged position or state (see FIGS. 3B and
4B).
[0082] The rails 136 of the resistance selector 110 may each
include a plurality of teeth 146 which define or otherwise help to
provide a plurality of notches 148 therebetween. When more than one
rail 136 is used, the rails 136 are positioned to align
corresponding notches 148 with one another. When the pin 142 is in
the engaged position, an engagement structure 150, which extends
laterally from the pin 142, is positioned within, and generally
cooperatively engages, a pair of aligned notches 148. Further, the
engagement structure 150 is also interlocked with the weight plate
114 simultaneously with the notches 148 of the rail when the
engagement structure 150 is in the engaged state. When a user
applies a force to the handle 144 to displace the pin 142 to the
retracted or disengaged state, the engagement structure 150 is
withdrawn from the notches 148 and is positioned in a slot 152 that
extends generally along the length of the rail 136. Also, the
engagement structure 150 is also disengaged from the weight plate
114 when the engagement structure 150 is in the disengaged
state.
[0083] Thus, when the resistance selector 110 is in an engaged
position or state, the engagement structure 150 is positioned
within a notch of a rail 136 (or a corresponding pair of notches of
the rails 136 when multiple rails 136 are utilized) such that the
engagement structure 150 abuts a surface of one or both of the
teeth 146 helping to define the notch 148. Thus, the abutment of
the engagement structure 150 with the teeth 146 prevent the body
134 from being displaced in a direction "Y" generally along the
length of the slots 152. However, when the resistance selector 110
is in a disengaged position or state, the engagement structure 150
no longer abuts any of the teeth 146 and is position within the
slot 152 (or corresponding slots) such that the body 134 is free to
be displaced in the Y direction.
[0084] The resistance selector 110 may also include a biasing
structure or mechanism to maintain the pin 142 (and, thus, the
engagement structure 150) in a desired position relative to the
body 134. For example, in one embodiment, one or more magnets 154
may be formed in, or otherwise associated with, the handle 144. A
face structure 156 or surface may be coupled to, or integrally
formed with, the rails 136, wherein the face structure 156 is
formed of a ferrous material such that the magnets 154 are
attracted to the face structure 156. Thus, the handle 144 may be
continually biased toward the face structure 156, maintaining the
pin 142 and engagement structure 150 in an engaged state unless a
sufficient force is applied (such as by a user) to overcome the
magnetic attraction between the magnets and the face structure. In
such an embodiment, the resistance selector 110 will be biased to
an engaged state requiring user action to disengage the resistance
selector 110 from the weight stack 112. As will be appreciated by
those of ordinary skill in the art, in another embodiment the face
structure 156 may be formed of one or more magnets and the handle
144 may include a ferrous material.
[0085] In another embodiment, a different biasing member or
mechanism may be utilized. For example, a spring mechanism (not
shown) may be used to bias the pin 142 and engagement structure 150
to desired position requiring application of a specified force to
the pin 142 (such as by way of the handle 144) to displace the pin
142 relative to the body 134.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 5, a weight plate 114 is shown
according to one embodiment of the present invention. The weight
plates 114 are configured to be selectively engaged and disengaged
by the resistance selector 110 and, more particularly, by the
engagement structure 150. The weight plates 114 may include a first
surface 160, a second opposing surface 162 and a peripheral surface
164 or edge. The peripheral surface 164 includes a portion that is
generally concave, defining an opening 166, and which may exhibit a
peripheral geometry that substantially mates with a cross sectional
geometry of the resistance selector 110 taken in a direction
substantially transverse to the Y direction and including the body
portion 134, rails 136, pin 142 and engagement structure 150. Thus,
in the presently described embodiment, a peripheral geometry of the
opening 166 is substantially T-shaped.
[0087] When a plurality of weight plates 114 are stacked upon one
another to form a stack 112 (see, e.g., FIG. 2), the T-shaped
openings 166 are aligned such that they define a channel that
exhibits a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional geometry. The
T-shaped channel is configured to receive the resistance selector
110 and to enable sliding or displacement of the body 134 (and
associated pin 142 and engagement structure 150) relative to the
rails 136 and weight stack 112 when the resistance selector is in a
disengaged state.
[0088] Still referring to FIG. 5, the weight plate also includes an
abutment shoulder 168 formed in the lateral portions 170 of the
T-shaped opening 166. In other words, the abutment shoulder 168 of
weight plate 114 includes a surface disposed within the T-shaped
peripheral opening that is not coplanar with the first and second
surfaces 160 and 162 but, rather, lies between such surfaces. The
abutment shoulders 168 provide a surface with which the engagement
structure 150 (FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B) may abut when in the
engaged state or position. Such a structure may be made, for
example by casting the weight plate 114 with a recessed abutment
shoulder 168, by machining the abutment shoulder 168 from a mass of
material, or by coupling together two separate bodies or weight
plates with the two bodies having slightly different geometries for
the T-shaped opening 166.
[0089] Thus, referring specifically to FIGS. 6A and 6B while
maintaining general reference to all the drawing figures, when the
resistance selector 110 is in an engaged position (i.e., FIGS. 3A,
4A and 6A), the engagement structure 150 is positioned within a
notch 148 such that, if displaced upwards in the Y direction, it
will contact an adjacent tooth 146, as has been described above.
Additionally, the engagement structure 150 will contact the
abutment shoulders 168 of the weight plate 114 adjacent the notch
148 while in the engaged state. Thus, the engagement structure 150
interlocks with both the weight plate 114 though engagement
shoulder 168 and the rail 136 through the notch 148 in the engaged
state. As a result, the weight plate 114 and the rail 136 are
locked together such that the rail 136 moves with the interlocked
weight plate 114 as the cable and pulley system is actuated.
[0090] With the engagement structure 150 in the engaged state with
the teeth 146 of the rails 136 and the abutment shoulders 168 of a
selected weight plate 114, when the cable and pulley system is
actuated, the resistance selector 110 will be displaced upwards
(based on the orientation shown in FIG. 1) causing the weight plate
114 that is abutted by the engagement structure 150, and any
superjacent weight plates 114 to be displaced in a like manner.
[0091] When the resistance selector 110 is in a disengaged position
or state, the engagement structure 150 is withdrawn from the
abutment shoulders 168 and the notches 148 such that the body 134
(and associated pin 142, handle 144 and engagement structure 150)
may slide within the slots 152 and be displaced in the Y direction
and so that a newly selected weight plate 114 may be engaged by the
engagement structure 150 of the resistance selector 110. It is
noted that the open sections of the lateral portions 170 of the
T-shaped opening 166 (i.e., the sections in the lateral portions
170 adjacent the abutment shoulders 168) align with the slots 152
formed in the rails 136 so as to define channels through which the
engagement structure 150 may be selectively displaced such as has
been described above.
[0092] Thus, the described embodiments of the invention provide an
efficient means of selecting a desired amount of resistance in an
exercise apparatus. Additionally, the described embodiments provide
a resistance selection mechanism that does not allow a selector key
or pin to be removed from the exercise apparatus (and, thus, become
lost or used with an incompatible apparatus) or become damaged or
the potential for injury to a user due to misuse or partial
engagement.
[0093] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of an exercise apparatus
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this
example, the body portion 134 of the resistance selector 110 is
arranged to travel in the Y direction along the length of the rail
136. In the illustrated example, the rail 136 provides a structure
to guide the body 134, but does not include the teeth 146 and
notches 148 described in the examples above.
[0094] The edges 180 of the weight plates 114 are shaped with a
profile into which the engagement structure 150 can interlock. For
example, when the pin 142 is moved forward into the first position,
the engagement structure 150 is likewise moved forward to abut
against the weight plates' profile. In the example of FIG. 7, the
profile includes an angled underside surface 184. When the pin 142
is in the first position, the engagement structure 150 abuts
against the angled underside surface 184. A sufficient surface area
of the engagement structure 150 contacts with the angled underside
surface 184 of the weight plate 114 such that when the rail 136 and
thereby the resistance selector 110 are moved in an upward
direction, the weight of the interlocked weight plate and the other
plates superjacent the interlocked weight plate are loaded to the
resistance selector 110. Thus, as the resistance selector 110 moves
upward, the interlocked weight plate and the superjacent weight
plates also move upward with the resistance selector 110.
[0095] The angled underside surface 184 allows for a degree of
misalignment between the engagement structure 150 and the weight
plate 114. For example, when the engagement structure 150 abuts the
weight plate's edge 180, the engagement structure 150 can slide
along the slope of the angled underside surface 184 until the
engagement structure 150 is properly aligned. Likewise, if the
engagement structure is misaligned to such a degree that the
engagement structure contacts an angled top surface 186 of the
weight plate's edge 180, the slope of the angled top surface 186
can also realign the engagement structure 150 to the proper
position.
[0096] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial side view of an engagement
structure 150 interlocking with an edge 180 of a plate 114
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this
example, the engagement structure 150 is shaped to contact both the
angled underside surface 184 and the angled top surface 186
simultaneously. The engagement structure 150 comprises a first
flank 188 that has a complementary angle to the angled underside
surface 184 of the plates 114 and a second flank 190 that has a
complementary angle to the angled top surface 186 of the plates
114.
[0097] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial side view of an engagement
structure 150 interlocking with an edge 180 of a plate 114
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this
example, the plate's edge 180 includes a cutout 192 for
interlocking with the engagement structure 150. The cutout 192
includes an overhang surface 194 and an angled top surface 186. The
angled top surface 186 is positioned to direct the engagement
structure 150 towards the overhang surface 194 of the weight plate
situated above the angled top surface 186. The weight of the
interlocking plate and the plates superjacent to the interlocking
plate can be loaded to the overhang surface and the engagement
structure 150 such that as the resistance selector 110 moves
upwards, the interlocking plate and the plates superjacent to the
interlocking plate move upward with the resistance selector 110.
One advantage to having the angled top surface 186 formed on the
plate below the overhang surface 194 is that the overhang surface
194 can be supported by additional material of the weight plate
114.
[0098] In some examples, the cutout 192 also includes a vertical
surface 196 positioned between the overhang surface 194 and the
angled top surface 186. The vertical surface 196 acts as a stop
that prevents the engagement structure 150 from advancing farther.
The engagement structure 150 includes a profile that is
complementary to the overhang surface 194, the vertical surface
196, and the angled top surface 186.
[0099] While interlocking edges of the plates in the examples above
have been described with reference to specific shapes and features,
any appropriate shape or feature may be integrated into the
interlocking edges of the plates. In some examples, the shape of
the engagement structure 150 and the shape of the weight plate's
edges are complementary, while in other examples, the shape of the
engagement structure 150 and the shape of the weight plate's edges
are not complementary.
[0100] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a pin 142 and a rail 136
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this
example, the pin 142 is rigidly connected to the rail 136. When the
rail 136 moves, the pin 142 moves with the rail 136. Thus, a user
or another type of mechanism for moving the pin 142 will also move
the rail 136. Thus, the rail is configured to move in both vertical
and horizontal directions.
[0101] The pin 142 is positioned to extend beyond an engagement
face 198 of the rail 136. In some examples, as the pin 142 and the
rail 136 are moved towards the weight stack, the pin 142 can
interlock with the desired weight plate before the engagement face
198 comes into contact with the weight stack. In some cases, the
engagement face 198 does not come into contact with the weight
stack. In the illustrated example, the engagement face 198 of the
rail 136 includes teeth 146 and notches 148. The teeth 146 and
notches 148 can be positioned and shaped such that they can
interlock with at least one of the weight plates when the pin 142
interlocks with the desired weight plate. Thus, more than one
weight plate can be interlocked with the rail 136 and the
resistance selector 110 at a time. By interlocking multiple plates
simultaneously, additional stability can be achieved during the
lift. Also, by interlocking multiple plates simultaneously, the
load weighted to the components of the resistance selector 110 can
be reduced and distributed along multiple points throughout the
weight stack. Such a more even weight distribution may increase the
life of individual parts of the exercise apparatus.
[0102] In the illustrated example, the top weight plate 200
interlocks with the rail 136 when the pin 142 interlocks with the
desired weight plate. However, in other examples, one or more
different plates may interlock with the rail 136.
[0103] While the example in FIG. 10 depicts a specific shape of the
top weight plate's edge 180, any appropriate type of edge shape may
be used in accordance with the principles described herein.
Further, while the teeth and notches have been depicted with a
specific geometry, the teeth and notches may include any
appropriate type of geometry. In some examples, the profiles of the
top plate's edge (or other plates) may or may not be complementary
with the profiles of the teeth and rails.
[0104] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a
resistance selector 110 in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention wherein the resistance selector 110 is in an
engaged state. In this example, the resistance selector's handle
144 can be used to cause the pin 142 to extend into an engaged
state or retract into a disengaged state. The handle 144 is
connected to the pin 142 through a pivot rod 202, and a cam surface
204 is located adjacent to the connection to the pivot rod 202. The
handle 144 can rotate about the pivot rod 202 between a first
position and a second position. In the first position, the handle
144 is in a generally horizontal orientation. As the handle 144 is
rotated about the pivot rod 202, the cam surface 204 pushes against
the body portion 134 of the resistance selector 110. As a result of
the load imposed by the cam surface 204, the pin 142 is pulled
outward causing the engagement structure 150 to move into a
disengaged state.
[0105] A biasing mechanism may be used to cause the pin 142 and the
engagement structure 150 to move back into the engaged state when
the handle is returned to the first, substantially horizontal
position. Such a biasing mechanism may include magnets, compression
springs, tension springs, wave springs, torodial springs, other
types of springs, compressed gas, other types of mechanisms, or
combinations thereof. In other examples, a retention mechanism may
be incorporated into the resistance selector 110 to retain the pin
142 and therefore the engagement structure 150 in the desired
position. For example, a snap feature, a pin feature, a screw
feature, another type of locking feature or combinations thereof
may be used to lock the pin 142 and engagement structure 150 in the
desired position.
[0106] FIGS. 12A, 12B & 13 illustrate examples of a pin and a
weight stack in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. In this example, an opening is formed in each of the
plates in the weigh stack to collective form a through hole 206 in
which the engagement structure 150 can move up and down in the Y
directions. An open neck 208 connects the through hole 206 to the
perimeter 210 of the weight plates. The open neck 208 accommodates
movement of the pin 142 in the Y directions to move the engagement
structure 150 in the through hole 206.
[0107] With the engagement structure 150 positioned within the
weight stack, the engagement structure 150 can be aligned with the
desired weight plate and then moved to interlock with the desired
weight plate. In some embodiments, the pin 142 is rotated about an
axis that is transverse to the length of the engagement structure
150 such that the engagement structure is tilted to one side. As a
result, the ends of the engagement structure 150 can be brought
into contact with the plate 114. An overhang, cavity, lip, notch,
or some other kind of interlocking feature may be formed in the
inside of the plate that the ends of the engagement structure 150
can hook. In the example of FIG. 12B, the ends of the engagement
structure 150 move into cavities formed in the weight plate as the
engagement structure 150 is tilted.
[0108] In the example of FIG. 13, the engagement structure 150 is
moved into cavities formed in a wall of the through hole 206. To
interlock with the cavities, due to the cavities' shape and
orientation, the pin 142 can be moved forward and also rotated
about an axis that is aligned with a length of the pin 142.
[0109] While the examples above have been depicted with reference
to the engagement structure 150 interlocking with the through hole
through a tilt or a forward movement combined with a rotation, any
appropriate manner of interlocking the engagement structure with
the through hole 206 of the weight plates 114 may be used. For
example, the pin 142 may be moved forward to engage a front side of
the through hole 206. In other examples, the pin 142 may be moved
backward to engage a back side of the through hole 206. In yet
another example, the pin 142 may be slide to the right or the left
to engage a right or left side of the through hole 206. Further,
the pin 142 may be tilted in any direction to engage any
appropriate side of the through hole 206.
[0110] FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an exercise apparatus
according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this
example, a first portion 212 of the rail 136 is rigidly attached to
the resistance selector 110. The first portion 212 of the rail 136
can telescopically move within a second portion 214 of the rail
136. In such an example, the resistance selector 110 can be
positioned manually or through an actuator to a height of the
desired weight plate 114 by telescopically moving the first portion
212 of the rail. The pin 142 of the resistance selector 110 can be
moved into the engaged state to interlock with the weight
plate.
[0111] In some examples, a user can manually position the height of
the resistance selector 110. In other examples, an actuator can be
used to position the resistance selector 110 to the appropriate
height. For example, a motor may be used to position the resistance
selector 110 to the appropriate height.
[0112] While the above example has been described with a specific
mechanism for moving a first portion of the rail with respect to a
second portion of the rail, any appropriate mechanism for moving
portions of the rails with respect to each other may be used. For
example, the first portion of the rail may be moved with a rack and
pinion arrangement, a thread form, a hydraulic mechanism, a
pneumatic mechanism, a swinging arm mechanism, a sliding mechanism,
a linear actuator, a solenoid, a motor, another type of mechanism
or combinations thereof.
[0113] Further, in examples where automation is used to move the
resistance selector 110, an actuator an actuator may be used to
move the pin 142. Such an actuator may receive commands in response
to instructions from the user based on input from a user input
mechanism incorporated into the exercise apparatus. In other
examples, such user inputs may be incorporated into a remote
device, and such features are controlled wirelessly. Any
appropriate wireless protocol may be used. Also, the amount of
weight selected may be recorded and sent to a remote device. In
other examples, the recorded information may be processed locally
at the exercise apparatus. Further, the number of lifts executed by
the user and/or the speed of the lifts may also be recorded. Such
records can be used to determine calories burned, force exerted
during the lift, other characteristics about the lift or
physiological parameters about the user, or combinations
thereof.
[0114] While the invention may be susceptible to various
modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been
shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in
detail herein. However, it should be understood that the invention
is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed.
Rather, the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention
as defined by the following appended claims.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0115] In general, the invention disclosed herein may provide the
user with an exercise apparatus that has a resistance selector that
is connected to the apparatus. Such a resistance selector may be
kept with the exercise apparatus such that the resistance selector
is not borrowed for another machine or lost. Further, such features
as described above may prevent an unsuitable resistance selector
from being used in the exercise apparatus.
[0116] The exercise apparatus may include a rail along which a
resistance selector can be moved. The resistance selector can be
moved to the desired to weight plate of the weight stack and be
interlocked with that weight plate by moving a pin of the
resistance selector to a different position. Such movement may
include linear movement, rotational movement, tilting movements,
multiple movements or combinations thereof. Further, in some
examples, the pin carries an engagement structure that is shaped to
interlock with the weight plate. Such an engagement structure may
interlock with the edge of the plate, an opening formed in the
plate, a through hole formed in the plate, an underside of the
plate, a geometry of the plate, another feature of the plate or
combinations thereof.
[0117] In some examples, the engagement structure is shaped to be
complementary to the shape of at least one feature of the weight
plate to be interlocked. In other examples, the interlocking
features of the engagement structure and the weight plate do not
have complementary shapes.
[0118] In some situations, the resistance selector moves
independently of the rail that is used to lock the weight plate to
the resistance selector. In other examples, the resistance selector
is rigidly attached to the resistance structure such that movement
of the resistance selector involves movement of at least a portion
of the rail.
* * * * *