U.S. patent application number 15/360093 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-16 for multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine.
This patent application is currently assigned to Lagree Technologies, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Lagree Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree.
Application Number | 20170072252 15/360093 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56850123 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170072252 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony
Louis |
March 16, 2017 |
Multiple Position Locking Handle For An Exercise Machine
Abstract
A multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine for
that is movable into a plurality of different positions when
unlocked and that is retained in a single secure position when
locked. The multiple position locking handle for an exercise
machine generally includes a tubular base having a lower end and an
upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of the
upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through at
least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly
from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking device. The
elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the
locking device is in the unlocked state and is substantially not
movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the
locked state.
Inventors: |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony
Louis; (West Hollywood, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lagree Technologies, Inc. |
Burbank |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Lagree Technologies, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
56850123 |
Appl. No.: |
15/360093 |
Filed: |
November 23, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15146622 |
May 4, 2016 |
9522299 |
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15360093 |
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14841210 |
Aug 31, 2015 |
9474924 |
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15146622 |
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13924088 |
Jun 21, 2013 |
9119989 |
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14841210 |
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61719757 |
Oct 29, 2012 |
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62156614 |
May 4, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/0211 20130101;
A63B 2225/09 20130101; A63B 21/0428 20130101; A63B 22/0087
20130101; A63B 2023/003 20130101; A63B 21/0125 20130101; A63B
21/00061 20130101; A63B 21/4029 20151001; A63B 21/4001 20151001;
A63B 21/023 20130101; A63B 21/0407 20130101; A63B 2208/0214
20130101; A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B 71/0054 20130101; A63B
23/1236 20130101; A63B 21/4045 20151001; A63B 21/4035 20151001;
A63B 22/0046 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00; A63B 21/04 20060101 A63B021/04; A63B 21/02 20060101
A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a track, a first
end and a second end, wherein the track has a longitudinal axis; a
carriage movably connected to the track, the carriage including a
first end and a second end opposite of the first end; wherein the
carriage is adapted to be movable along a portion of the
longitudinal axis of the track; a bias member connected to the
carriage, wherein the bias member provides a biasing force to the
carriage; a first platform connected to or near the first end of
the frame; a second platform connected to or near the second end of
the frame; and a first adjustable handle and a second adjustable
handle connected to the frame directly or indirectly, wherein the
first adjustable handle is on or near a first side of the frame and
the second adjustable handle is on or near a second side of the
frame; wherein the first adjustable handle and the second
adjustable handle are each comprised of: a base having a lower end
and an upper end, wherein the base is attached to the exercise
machine; an elongated member rotatably connected to the base; a
first handle extending outwardly from the elongated member, wherein
the first handle is adapted for grasping by an exerciser; and an
index plunger having a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein
the index plunger includes a plunger pin and a spring connected to
the plunger pin and a second handle attached to the plunger pin,
wherein the second handle is adapted to be grasped and pulled
outwardly by a user to position the index plunger into the unlocked
state, wherein the spring applies a biasing force to the plunger
pin forcing the plunger pin inwardly, wherein the elongated member
is rotatable within the base when the index plunger is in the
unlocked state and wherein the elongated member is substantially
not rotatable within the base when the index plunger is in the
locked state.
2. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first handle
extends outwardly from the elongated member in a radial manner.
3. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first handle is
substantially transverse with respect to the elongated member.
4. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the index plunger is
connected to the first handle.
5. The exercise machine of claim 4, wherein the index plunger
engages the base when in the locked state thereby preventing the
elongated member from rotating substantially with respect to the
base.
6. The exercise machine of claim 5, wherein the index plunger
engages the base when in the locked state thereby preventing the
elongated member from moving upwardly substantially with respect to
the base.
7. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the second handle is
comprised of a circular shaped structure.
8. The exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the second handle is
comprised of a ring that is pivotally connected to the plunger
pin.
9. The exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the index plunger is
comprised of a pull-ring index plunger.
10. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the second handle is
movably connected to the plunger pin.
11. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the index plunger is
attached to the base.
12. The exercise machine of claim 11, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent rotation of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
13. The exercise machine of claim 12, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent lifting of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
14. The exercise machine of claim 11, wherein the plunger pin of
the index plunger engages the elongated member to prevent rotation
of the elongated member with respect to the base when the index
plunger is in the locked state.
15. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the base is comprised
of a tubular structure with an opening within the upper end,
wherein at least a portion of the elongated member extends through
the opening into the base.
16. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first handle is
positionable into a first lockable handle position and a second
lockable handle position.
17. The exercise machine of claim 16, wherein the first lockable
handle position is approximately 90 degrees with respect to the
second lockable handle position.
18. The exercise machine of claim 16, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the first lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially parallel with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
19. The exercise machine of claim 18, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially transverse with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
20. The exercise machine of claim 18, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle extends inwardly with respect to the exercise machine.
21. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein when the index plunger
is in the locked state, the plunger pin is retracted inwardly.
22. The exercise machine of claim 21, wherein when the index
plunger is in the unlocked state, the plunger pin is extended
outwardly.
23. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a track, a
first end and a second end, wherein the track has a longitudinal
axis; a carriage movably connected to the track, the carriage
including a first end and a second end opposite of the first end;
wherein the carriage is adapted to be movable along a portion of
the longitudinal axis of the track; a bias member connected to the
carriage, wherein the bias member provides a biasing force to the
carriage; a first platform connected to or near the first end of
the frame; a second platform connected to or near the second end of
the frame; and a first adjustable handle and a second adjustable
handle connected to the frame directly or indirectly, wherein the
first adjustable handle is on or near a first side of the frame and
the second adjustable handle is on or near a second side of the
frame; wherein the first adjustable handle and the second
adjustable handle are each comprised of: a base having a lower end
and an upper end, wherein the base is attached to the exercise
machine, and wherein the base is comprised of a tubular structure
with an opening within the upper end; an elongated member rotatably
connected to the base, wherein at least a portion of the elongated
member extends through the opening into the base; a first handle
extending outwardly from the elongated member, wherein the first
handle is adapted for grasping by an exerciser; and an index
plunger attached to the base, wherein the index plunger has a
locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the index plunger
includes a plunger pin and a spring connected to the plunger pin
and a second handle attached to the plunger pin, wherein the second
handle is adapted to be grasped and pulled outwardly by a user to
position the index plunger into the unlocked state, wherein the
spring applies a biasing force to the plunger pin forcing the
plunger pin inwardly, wherein the elongated member is rotatable
within the base when the index plunger is in the unlocked state and
wherein the elongated member is substantially not rotatable within
the base when the index plunger is in the locked state.
24. The exercise machine of claim 23, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent rotation of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
25. The exercise machine of claim 24, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent lifting of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
26. The exercise machine of claim 23, wherein the plunger pin of
the index plunger engages the elongated member to prevent rotation
of the elongated member with respect to the base when the index
plunger is in the locked state.
27. The exercise machine of claim 23, wherein the first handle is
positionable into a first lockable handle position and a second
lockable handle position.
28. The exercise machine of claim 27, wherein the first lockable
handle position is approximately 90 degrees with respect to the
second lockable handle position.
29. The exercise machine of claim 27, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the first lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially parallel with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
30. The exercise machine of claim 29, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially transverse with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
31. The exercise machine of claim 29, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle extends inwardly with respect to the exercise machine.
32. The exercise machine of claim 23, wherein when the index
plunger is in the locked state, the plunger pin is retracted
inwardly.
33. The exercise machine of claim 32, wherein when the index
plunger is in the unlocked state, the plunger pin is extended
outwardly.
34. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a track, a
first end and a second end, wherein the track has a longitudinal
axis; a carriage movably connected to the track, the carriage
including a first end and a second end opposite of the first end;
wherein the carriage is adapted to be movable along a portion of
the longitudinal axis of the track; a bias member connected to the
carriage, wherein the bias member provides a biasing force to the
carriage; a first platform connected to or near the first end of
the frame; a second platform connected to or near the second end of
the frame; and a first adjustable handle and a second adjustable
handle connected to the frame directly or indirectly, wherein the
first adjustable handle is on or near a first side of the frame and
the second adjustable handle is on or near a second side of the
frame; wherein the first adjustable handle and the second
adjustable handle are each comprised of: a base having a lower end
and an upper end, wherein the base is attached to the exercise
machine, and wherein the base is comprised of a tubular structure
with an opening within the upper end; an elongated member rotatably
connected to the base, wherein at least a portion of the elongated
member extends through the opening into the base; a first handle
extending outwardly from the elongated member, wherein the first
handle is adapted for grasping by an exerciser, and wherein the
first handle is positionable into a first lockable handle position
and a second lockable handle position; and an index plunger
attached to the base, wherein the index plunger has a locked state
and an unlocked state, wherein the index plunger includes a plunger
pin and a spring connected to the plunger pin and a second handle
attached to the plunger pin, wherein the second handle is adapted
to be grasped and pulled outwardly by a user to position the index
plunger into the unlocked state, wherein the spring applies a
biasing force to the plunger pin forcing the plunger pin inwardly,
wherein the elongated member is rotatable within the base when the
index plunger is in the unlocked state and wherein the elongated
member is substantially not rotatable within the base when the
index plunger is in the locked state, wherein the plunger pin is
retracted inwardly when the index plunger is in the locked state
and wherein the plunger pin is extended outwardly when the index
plunger is in the unlocked state.
35. The exercise machine of claim 34, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent rotation of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
36. The exercise machine of claim 35, wherein the index plunger
selectively engages the elongated member to prevent lifting of the
elongated member with respect to the base when the index plunger is
in the locked state.
37. The exercise machine of claim 34, wherein the plunger pin of
the index plunger engages the elongated member to prevent rotation
of the elongated member with respect to the base when the index
plunger is in the locked state.
38. The exercise machine of claim 34, wherein the first lockable
handle position is approximately 90 degrees with respect to the
second lockable handle position.
39. The exercise machine of claim 34, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the first lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially parallel with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
40. The exercise machine of claim 39, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle is substantially transverse with respect to the longitudinal
axis of the track.
41. The exercise machine of claim 39, wherein when the first handle
is positioned within the second lockable handle position, the first
handle extends inwardly with respect to the exercise machine.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/146,622 filed on May 4, 2016 (Docket No.
LAGR-067), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/841,210 filed on Aug. 31, 2015 now issued as U.S. Pat. No.
9,474,924 (Docket No. LAGR-052), which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/924,088 filed on Jun. 21, 2013 now issued
as U.S. Pat. No. 9,119,989 (Docket No. LAGR-003), which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/719,757 filed Oct.
29, 2012 (Docket No. LAGR-001). U.S. application Ser. No.
15/146,622 filed on May 4, 2016 (Docket No. LAGR-067) also claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/156,614 filed May
4, 2015 (Docket No. LAGR-047). Each of the aforementioned patent
applications, and any applications related thereto, is herein
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable to this application.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Field
[0004] Example embodiments in general relate to a multiple position
locking handle for an exercise machine that is movable into a
plurality of different positions when unlocked and that is retained
in a single secure position when locked.
[0005] Related Art
[0006] Any discussion of the related art throughout the
specification should in no way be considered as an admission that
such related art is widely known or forms part of common general
knowledge in the field.
[0007] Pilates apparatuses are well known the fitness industry
worldwide. As one of the fastest growing segments of the fitness
industry, millions of exercisers are visiting Pilates studios where
they perform a complex routine of exercises upon a Pilates
apparatus. A Pilates apparatus has many functional accessories that
are used at various times during a workout, such accessories
including adjustable handles, foot bars, and a plurality of
resistance springs. It is important that all support features, such
as grab handles of an apparatus, are solidly affixed to the
apparatus structure in such a manner so as to provide reliable and
predictable support any time that an exerciser requires support. On
the other hand, grab handles are often rotated or otherwise
repositioned during an exercise routine, so they must be easily
manipulated by the exerciser.
[0008] One potential problem with some adjustable grab handle
mechanisms is that the grab handles may not affirmatively lock into
a new position after adjustment. In the event an exerciser
inadvertently pulls up on the handle during an exercise, the lifted
handle may accidentally disengage the handle thereby allowing the
handle to rotate or otherwise move unexpectedly.
[0009] Those skilled in the art will understand and immediately
appreciate the need for a new and novel exerciser support handle
system that provides for easy disengagement from a locked position
to allow for handle repositioning, and that immediately locks into
position once determined by the exerciser.
SUMMARY
[0010] An example embodiment of the present invention is directed
to a multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine. The
multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine includes a
tubular base having a lower end and an upper end, an elongated
member extending through the opening of the upper end of the
tubular base and extending downwardly through at least a portion of
the tubular base, a handle extending outwardly from the elongated
member at an angle, and a locking device. The elongated member is
movable within the tubular base when the locking device is in the
unlocked state and is substantially not movable within the tubular
base when the locking device is in the locked state.
[0011] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the
features of the multiple position locking handle for an exercise
machine in order that the detailed description thereof may be
better understood, and in order that the present contribution to
the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of
the multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine that
will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter
of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining
at least one embodiment of the multiple position locking handle for
an exercise machine in detail, it is to be understood that the
multiple position locking handle for an exercise machine is not
limited in its application to the details of construction or to the
arrangements of the components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The multiple position
locking handle for an exercise machine is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.
Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology
employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should
not be regarded as limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Example embodiments will become more fully understood from
the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying
drawings, wherein like elements are represented by like reference
characters, which are given by way of illustration only and thus
are not limitative of the example embodiments herein.
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a plurality of multiple
position locking handles attached to an exercise machine in
accordance with one example embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 2a is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle.
[0015] FIG. 2b is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the locking device in an
unlocked position and with the handles being lifted and rotated
thereafter.
[0016] FIG. 3a is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of
the multiple position locking handle.
[0017] FIG. 3b is a cutaway view taken along line 3b-3b of FIG. 2b
showing the locking device and related rotational locking
assembly.
[0018] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the locking device in the
locked position.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the locking device in the
unlocked position with the handles still in a rotational locked
state.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the locking device in the
unlocked position and the handles being lifted upwardly to enter a
rotational released state.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the locking device in the
unlocked position and the handles being lifted upwardly into the
rotational released state and with the handles being freely
rotated.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
multiple position locking handle with the handles lowered back into
the rotational locked state and the locking device in the locked
position to prevent the handles from being lifted upwardly.
[0023] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of
the multiple position locking handle.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a front view of an embodiment of the multiple
position locking handle.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view taken along line 11-11 of
FIG. 10.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view taken along line 12-12 of
FIG. 10.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view taken along line 13-13 of
FIG. 10.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a side cutaway view showing the locking device
within the collar of the handle structure in the locked position to
prevent upwardly movement of the collar and handle structure.
[0029] FIG. 15 is a side cutaway view showing the locking device in
the unlocked position.
[0030] FIG. 16 is a side cutaway view showing the collar and
handles lifted upwardly.
[0031] FIG. 17 is a side cutaway view showing the collar and
handles connected to the collar being lowered downwardly with the
plunger pin of the locking device sliding along the angled surface
of the latch.
[0032] FIG. 18 is a side cutaway view showing the plunger pin of
the locking device being biased inwardly to engage the latch in the
locked position.
[0033] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the collar that supports the
handles.
[0034] FIG. 20 is an upper perspective view of a lower locking
structure that is attached to the tubular base.
[0035] FIG. 21 is a top view of the lower locking structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] An example multiple position locking handle for an exercise
machine generally comprises a tubular base having a lower end and
an upper end, an elongated member extending through the opening of
the upper end of the tubular base and extending downwardly through
at least a portion of the tubular base, a handle extending
outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, and a locking
device. The elongated member is movable within the tubular base
when the locking device is in the unlocked state and is
substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking
device is in the locked state.
[0037] "Pilates apparatus" as used herein may also include
"machine", "exercise apparatus", or "exercise machine" with no
difference in meaning or intention as the descriptions are
interchangeable. U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,803,095 and 8,641,585 illustrate
exemplary exercise machines comprised of a "Pilates apparatus" and
are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
[0038] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing an exercise machine
(e.g. a Pilates apparatus) 100 comprising a structural support
frame with a first end 101 and a distal second end 102, a pair of
parallel sliding rails 103 affixed to a plurality of laterally
extending structural supports 108, and an exercise carriage 104
slidable along substantially the length of the parallel rails. A
plurality of resistance springs 105 are removably attached between
the first end of the apparatus and the slidable carriage, the
thereby providing for a resistance force against which an exerciser
will work in order to slide the carriage in a direction opposite to
the resistance means.
[0039] A pair of support handles 106 are shown at the second end of
the apparatus, and a pair of multiple handle support structures 107
are shown affixed to the apparatus proximal to the first end. The
handles of the multiple support handle structures are rotatable
about the axis of the supporting stanchions 109.
[0040] When changing from one exercise to a second exercise during
a workout session, exercisers will preferably reposition one or
more of the handles of the multiple handle support system to
provide for improved grabbing or pushing support.
[0041] FIG. 2a is an exemplary diagram showing a first position of
handles of a multiple support handle system 107 of an exercise
apparatus. A support base 200 is affixed to the structure of an
exercise apparatus, thereby supporting a vertically extending
stanchion 201 there above. The assembly further supports a lower
set of handles 202 and an upper handle 203. The handles are shown
in one of many possible locked positions, and are independently
rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the stanchion 201.
[0042] FIG. 2b is an exemplary diagram showing a second position of
handles of a multiple handle system 107 of an exercise apparatus.
In FIG. 2b, the locking device 205 is shown installed into an
internally slotted hub 204 in one embodiment of the invention. The
locking device 205 may alternatively be attached to the tubular
base 201 and selectively engages the elongated member 430 to
prevent rotation and/or lifting of the elongated member 430 with
respect to the tubular base 201. The locking device 205 includes a
body 208 that may be threaded on the exterior portion to be
threadably attached within a threaded aperture within the hub 204
or the tubular base 201. The plunger pin 206 slidably extended
within the body 208 with the spring 209 providing a biasing force
to the plunger pin 206 with respect to the body 208 thereby forcing
the distal end portion of the plunger pin 206 to extend inwardly
out of the body 208 and out of the hub 204 (or the tubular base
201) to extend inwardly to catchably engage the latch 400 to
prevent the elongated member 430 from being lifted upwardly or
rotated.
[0043] A handle 207 is attached to the outer distal end of the
plunger pin 206 for a user to easily grasp and pull upon the
plunger pin 206. The handle 207 may be comprised of a ring or other
structure that is easily grasped with the fingers. The handle 207
may be pivotally or other otherwise movably connected to the
plunger pin 206.
[0044] The locking device 205 may be comprised of any spring-loaded
plunger device that uses a biasing device 209 (e.g. spring,
compression spring) to apply a biasing force to a plunger pin 206
such as, but not limited to, a spring plunger, an index plunger or
a pull-ring index plunger. The biasing force applied to the plunger
pin forces the plunger pin to retract from an outwardly pulled
extended position. An upper handle 203 is shown extending down
through the top surface of the hub 204.
[0045] Referencing the positions of the handles of FIG. 2a, it can
be readily seen that the lower handles 202 have been rotated about
the longitudinal axis of the stanchion. The repositioning of the
lower handles 202 includes the user first pulling outwardly on the
spring plunger 205 in direction A thereby releasing the plunger
from one of a plurality of latches 400 internal to the hub 204.
Releasing the plunger from the latch allows for the upward lifting
of the hub 204, and correspondingly the lower handles 202 affixed
to the hub in direction B. Lifting the internally slotted hub
provides for raising the internal slots of the hub from radially
projecting gear teeth of a lower gear ring affixed proximal to the
upper end of the stanchion, thereby allowing the handle and hub
assembly to be rotated about the longitudinal axis of the stanchion
in rotational direction C (or a counter rotational direction). Upon
finding a preferred axial position of the handle and hub assembly,
the position corresponding to one of a plurality of possible
positions as determined by the number of internal slots and mating
gear teeth projections radially from the central axis of the
stanchion, the exerciser drops the hub and handle bar assembly
downward, thereby allowing the spring plunger to engage another
latch in the new position.
[0046] FIG. 3a is an exemplary diagram showing an exploded view of
a multiple support handle system of an exercise apparatus. A
support base 200 is affixed to the structure of an exercise
apparatus not shown, thereby supporting a vertically extending
stanchion 201 there above. The assembly further supports a lower
set of handles 202 and an upper handle 203. The handles are shown
in one of many possible locked positions, and are independently
rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the stanchion 201. When
rotated to a preferred position, the position is maintained by
means of a spring plunger 205 engaging with a mating latch not
shown, but internal to the assembly.
[0047] A lower gear ring 301 is directly or indirectly affixed
proximal to the uppermost end of the stanchion. Radially projecting
gear teeth of the lower gear ring engage with corresponding slots
internal to the handle hub 204. An elongated spacer 420 is attached
to the lower portion of the lower locking member 301 to provide a
spacer for the compression spring that is attached to the lower end
of the elongated member 430 by an end member (the compression
spring is compressed between the lower end of the elongated spacer
420 and the end member which is wider than the elongated member
430.
[0048] Further, upwardly projecting teeth of the lower gear tooth
may engage corresponding teeth of an upper gear ring 300 which is
affixed proximal to the lower vertical end of the upper handle
203.
[0049] FIG. 3b is an exemplary diagram showing a sectional view
3B-3B of a locking mechanism of a multiple support handle system of
FIG. 2b. The lower end of a substantially tubular upper handle 203
is shown projecting through the top surface of a handle hub 204. An
upper gear ring 300 is affixed proximal to the lower end of the
handle tube, with gear teeth projecting in a downward direction so
as to engage with corresponding gear teeth of the lower gear ring
301. The lower gear ring is affixed proximal to the upper end of
the stanchion tube 201.
[0050] Further to the upwardly extending gear teeth of the lower
gear ring 301, the lower gear ring has a plurality of vertical
projections 403 positioned radially about the vertical axis, the
projections engageable with internal slots 402 of the internally
slotted hub 204. Aligning the mating vertical projections and slots
positions the hub at one of a plurality of radial positions.
Lifting the internally slotted hub de-engages the radial
projections of the lower gear ring from the internal slots of the
hub, thereby allowing the hub, and correspondingly the handles
about the longitudinal axis of the stanchion.
[0051] A plurality of latches 400 are provided axially about the
lower locking member or lower gear ring, the latches being
interstitial to the vertical projections. Before the internally
slotted hub may be lifted relative to the stanchion, the plunger of
a spring plunger 205 must be manually pulled by the exerciser in a
direction that retracts the plunger from the latch 400. Only after
retracting the plunger can an exerciser lift the hub and handles
for the purpose of rotating to a new position.
[0052] The latches 400 may be comprised of various structures that
may be catchably connected to the plunger pin 206 of the locking
device 205. FIGS. 3a, 3b, 9, 12-18, 20 and 21 illustrate one
embodiment of the lower locking member 301 having a plurality of
the latches 400. Each of the latches shown in this embodiment
includes an angled surface 410 that tapers outwardly from top to
bottom as best illustrated in FIG. 3b of the drawings. The angled
surface 410 may be a straight angled surface as illustrated in FIG.
3b or a non-straight angled surface. The upper portion of the
angled surface 410 is positioned inwardly sufficiently that when
the plunger pin 206 of the locking device 205 is fully extended
inwardly that the plunger pin 206 does not catch on an upper edge
of the lower locking member 301 and instead slidably engages the
angled surface 410 to force the plunger pin 206 outwardly as the
collar and handle connected to the collar are pushed downwardly
upon the tubular base 201 as shown in FIG. 17 of the drawings.
After the handle is pushed downwardly sufficiently, the plunger pin
206 is able to extend inwardly in a catchable manner (locked
position) to extend below a lower edge of the corresponding latch
400 to prevent the collar (and handle) from being lifted upwardly
as shown in FIG. 18. The lower edge 412 may be a substantially
horizontally aligned surface as shown in FIGS. 3b and 18 of the
drawings. However, the lower edge 412 may be comprised of various
other structures not shown in the drawings capable of catchably
engaging the plunger pin 206 when the plunger pin is extended
inwardly into the locked position (e.g. an aperture within the
elongated member 430.
[0053] Further, lifting the hub after retracting the spring plunger
raises the annular ring retainer 401 on the interior of the hum, in
turn, raising the ring vertically upwards from the upper gear ring
300. This provides for the upper handle 203 to be raised as well,
so that the bottom of the upper gear teeth disengage from the
upwardly projecting teeth of the lower gear ring. The upper handle
gear ring being disengages provides for an exerciser to rotate the
upper handle independent of the hub to the desired position.
[0054] A one or more gear teeth of each of the upper and lower gear
rings, create a plurality of lockable handle positions. In one
embodiment, four gear teeth of each of the upper and lower gear
rings, creating a plurality of lockable handle positions at 0, 90,
180, and 270 degrees of rotation are created. Various other degrees
of rotation may be created. Correspondingly, four latch 400
positions are interstitially positioned between the gear teeth,
thereby providing for four locking positions. Alternatively, a
single tooth may be used for the collar and handle that is
selectively received in one of a plurality of apertures or cutouts
within the lower locking member 301 or the tubular base 201.
Various other structures may be utilized to provided for a
plurality of locked rotation positions for the handle so that when
the handle is lifted upwardly the handle is rotatable to a
different rotation position and when the handle is lowered the
handle is locked in a non-rotatable manner.
[0055] The 90 degree offsets for the gear teeth, and providing for
four gear teeth and four positions for lockable rotation is not
meant to be limiting, and any reasonable number of positions
preferably symmetrically positioned radially about the longitudinal
axis of the stanchion may be used.
[0056] One embodiment of the present invention includes a tubular
base having a lower end and an upper end, wherein the tubular base
is adapted to be attached to an exercise machine and wherein the
upper end includes an opening. In addition, an elongated member
extends through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base
and extends downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular
base. Alternatively, the base may extend through a lower opening in
the elongated member with the elongated member having a tubular
structure and slidably (and rotatably) surrounding the base (the
base may be tubular or non-tubular). In addition, the base may be
slidably and rotatably connected with the elongated member in
various other manners not illustrated in the draiwngs. The
elongated member is rotatable and slidable in a longitudinal manner
with respect to the lumen of the tubular base to allow for
rotational adjustment of the handle. The handle extends outwardly
from the elongated member at an angle (e.g. horizontally, radially
and various angles between horizontal and vertical), however, the
handle may be concentric with the elongated member and extend
substantially along a common axis of the elongated member. The
locking device has a locked state and an unlocked state. The
elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the
locking device is in the unlocked state and the elongated member is
substantially not movable within the tubular base when the locking
device is in the locked state. When the elongated member is in the
unlocked state, the elongated member is preferably movable within
the tubular base.
[0057] The locking device (e.g. index plunger) is connected to the
handle or the collar connected to the handle. The locking device
includes a plunger pin and a spring connected to the plunger pin,
wherein the spring applies a biasing force to the plunger pin
forcing the plunger pin inwardly as illustrated in FIG. 14 through
28 of the drawings. Alternatively, the locking device is connected
to the tubular base and extends inwardly to selectively engage the
elongated member. The locking device engages the tubular base (e.g.
latches of the lower locking member) when in the locked state
thereby preventing the elongated member from moving substantially
with respect to the tubular base. When in the locked state, the
locking device prevents the elongated member from moving upwardly
and may also prevent substantial rotation of the elongated member
with respect to the tubular base. It is preferable that the
arrangement of the locking device and locking members are such that
there is no movement (rotational or longitudinal) of the elongated
member with respect to the tubular base.
[0058] In one embodiment, a collar having a lower opening is
provided that is connected to the elongated member (directly or
indirectly). One or more handles are attached to the collar. The
lower opening of the collar is adapted to removably receive the
upper end of the tubular base as illustrated in FIGS. 2b, 3b and 13
of the drawings.
[0059] One or more of the adjustable handles are attached to an
exercise machine, such as, but not limited to, a Pilates apparatus
as illustrated in FIG. 1 of the drawings. The adjustable handles
are preferably attached on opposing sides of the exercise machine
in one or more pairs so the user may grasp a first adjustable
handle with their left hand and a second adjustable handle with
their right hand. More than two adjustable handles may be used
depending upon the exercise machine and the desired usages of the
exercise machine. The adjustable handles are illustrates as being
attached to the exercise machine at or near the ends of the
exercise machine, but the adjustable handles may be attached to the
exercise machine between the respective ends.
[0060] The exercise machine (e.g. Pilates apparatus) preferably has
a frame having a track with a longitudinal axis, a first end and a
second end. A carriage movably connected to the track so as to be
reciprocated back and forth along a portion of the track. The
carriage includes a first end and a second end opposite of the
first end. The carriage is adapted to be movable along a portion of
the longitudinal axis of the track. One or more bias members (e.g.
springs, elastic members) are connected between the frame and the
carriage to provide a biasing force to the carriage thereby
providing resistance to the exerciser when moving the carriage in a
first direction. The exercise machine further includes a first
platform connected to or near the first end of the frame and a
second platform connected to or near the second end of the frame
for the exerciser to position a portion of their body upon during
an exercise.
[0061] The first adjustable handle and a second adjustable handle
are connected to the frame directly or indirectly. The first
adjustable handle is on a first side of the frame and the second
adjustable handle is on a second side of the frame as illustrated
in FIG. 1 of the drawings. The first adjustable handle and the
second adjustable handle are each comprised of a base (e.g. tubular
base, non-tubular base) and an elongated member that is slidably
and rotatably connected to the base. The tubular base has a lower
end and an upper end and the tubular base is adapted to be attached
to an exercise machine (permanently or removably). The upper end of
the tubular base preferably includes an opening though not required
if the elongated member slides over the base. The elongated member
extends through the opening of the upper end of the tubular base
and extends downwardly through at least a portion of the tubular
base as illustrated in FIG. 13 of the drawings. A handle extends
outwardly from the elongated member at an angle, wherein the handle
is directly or indirectly connected to the elongated member. The
locking device has a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein
the elongated member is movable within the tubular base when the
locking device is in the unlocked state and wherein the elongated
member is substantially not movable within the tubular base when
the locking device is in the locked state.
[0062] In another embodiment, a rotational locking assembly is
connected between the tubular base and the elongated member. The
rotational locking assembly allows for free rotation of the
elongated member and/or handle (and corresponding collar) with
respect to the tubular base when the elongated member is pulled
upwardly from the tubular base. The rotational locking assembly
locks the elongated member in one of a plurality of rotational
positions with respect to the tubular base when the elongated
member is pushed downwardly into the tubular base. In this
embodiment, the elongated member is movable in an upward manner
within the tubular base when the locking device is in the unlocked
state and the elongated member is substantially not movable in an
upward manner within the tubular base when the locking device is in
the locked state. The rotational locking assembly may be comprised
of a lower gear member and an upper gear member that each have
teeth that interconnect with corresponding slots within the
opposing gear member as illustrated in FIGS. 3a, 3b, 9 and 13 of
the drawings. Various other structures may be utilized to construct
the rotational locking assembly.
[0063] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described
herein can be used in the practice or testing of the multiple
position locking handle for an exercise machine, suitable methods
and materials are described above. All publications, patent
applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are
incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed
by applicable law and regulations. The multiple position locking
handle for an exercise machine may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes
thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be
considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Any
headings utilized within the description are for convenience only
and have no legal or limiting effect.
* * * * *