U.S. patent application number 15/389545 was filed with the patent office on 2017-04-13 for exercise machine cable adjustment system.
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 | 20170100629 15/389545 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52626135 |
Filed Date | 2017-04-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170100629 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony
Louis |
April 13, 2017 |
Exercise Machine Cable Adjustment System
Abstract
An exercise machine cable adjustment system for providing
efficient adjustment of the effective length of one or more cables.
The exercise machine cable adjustment system generally includes a
frame, a carriage movably positioned upon the frame and a pair of
cables adjustably connected to the carriage to allow for adjustment
of the effective length for each of the cables.
Inventors: |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony
Louis; (Burbank, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lagree Technologies, Inc. |
Burbank |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Lagree Technologies, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
52626135 |
Appl. No.: |
15/389545 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15277298 |
Sep 27, 2016 |
9533185 |
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15389545 |
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14543407 |
Nov 17, 2014 |
9457225 |
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15277298 |
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13924088 |
Jun 21, 2013 |
9119989 |
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14543407 |
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61905503 |
Nov 18, 2013 |
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61719757 |
Oct 29, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/30 20130101;
A63B 22/0089 20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 23/1209
20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 2225/09 20130101; A63B 21/152
20130101; A63B 23/03533 20130101; A63B 21/023 20130101; A63B
21/0428 20130101; A63B 21/0552 20130101; A63B 21/4045 20151001;
A63B 21/4035 20151001 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/00 20060101
A63B022/00; A63B 21/04 20060101 A63B021/04; A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00; A63B 21/02 20060101 A63B021/02 |
Claims
1. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a first end, a
second end opposite of the first end, and a longitudinal axis
extending therebetween; a first platform connected to the frame
near the first end of the frame; a carriage movably positioned upon
the frame, wherein the carriage is adapted to be movable along a
portion of the longitudinal axis, wherein the carriage includes an
upper surface, a first end facing towards the first end of the
frame, a first side, and a second side opposite of the first side;
a biasing member connected to the carriage; a first pulley
connected to the frame; a first cable movably positioned upon the
first pulley, wherein the first cable includes a first engaging end
adapted for engagement by an exerciser, a second engaging end
opposite of the first engaging end connected to the carriage, a
first length between the first engaging end and the second engaging
end, a first run between the first pulley and the carriage, and a
second run between the first pulley and the first engaging end; a
first connector attached directly to or formed within the carriage
comprising a first set of holes configured for selective adjustable
attachment of the second engaging end, wherein the first set of
holes is positioned such that, when the second engaging end is
connected to a first hole of the first set of holes, the first run
is shorter than when the second engaging end is connected to a
second hole of the first set of holes; a second pulley connected to
the frame between the first end of the frame and the first end of
the carriage; a second cable movably positioned upon the second
pulley, wherein the second cable includes a first engaging end
adapted for engagement by an exerciser, a second engaging end
opposite of the first engaging end connected to the carriage, a
first length between the first engaging end and the second engaging
end of the second cable, a first run between the second pulley and
the carriage, and a second run between the second pulley and the
first engaging end of the second cable; and a second connector
attached directly to or formed within the carriage comprising a
second set of holes configured for selectively adjustable
attachment of the second engaging end of the second cable, wherein
the second set of holes is positioned such that, when the second
engaging end of the second cable is connected to a first hole of
the second set of holes, the first run is shorter than when the
second engaging end of the second cable is connected to a second
hole of the second set of holes.
2. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector and
the second connector are each comprised of a bracket.
3. The exercise machine of claim 2, wherein the bracket is
comprised of a plate structure.
4. The exercise machine of claim 2, wherein the first connector and
the second connector outwardly from the first end of the
carriage.
5. The exercise machine of claim 4, wherein the first connector
extends outwardly from the first side of the carriage and the
second connector extends outwardly from the second side of the
carriage.
6. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector
extends outwardly from the first side of the carriage and the
second connector extends outwardly from the second side of the
carriage.
7. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector is
comprised of a curved structure that extends outwardly from a first
corner of the carriage and wherein the second connector is
comprised of a curved structure that extends outwardly from a
second corner of the carriage.
8. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector and
the second connector are each attached directly to the
carriage.
9. The exercise machine of claim 8, wherein the first connector and
the second connector each extend outwardly from the carriage.
10. The exercise machine of claim 9, wherein the first connector
extends outwardly from a first side of the carriage and the second
connector extends outwardly from the second side of the
carriage.
11. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector
and the second connector each extend outwardly from a first end of
the carriage.
12. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector is
comprised of a bracket and wherein the second connector is
comprised of a bracket, wherein the brackets are substantially
parallel with respect to the upper surface of the carriage.
13. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector is
positioned near a first corner of the carriage and the second
connector is positioned near a second corner of the carriage.
14. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first connector
and the second connector are formed within the carriage.
15. The exercise machine of claim 14, wherein the first set of
holes extend through a portion of the carriage and wherein the
second set of holes extend through a portion of the carriage.
16. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the upper surface of
the carriage, the upper surface of the first stationary platform
and the upper surface of the second stationary platform are on or
near a common plane.
17. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a first end, a
second end opposite of the first end, and a longitudinal axis
extending therebetween; a first platform connected to the frame
near the first end of the frame; a second platform connected to the
frame near the first end of the frame; a carriage movably
positioned upon the frame, wherein the carriage is adapted to be
movable along a portion of the longitudinal axis, wherein the
carriage includes an upper surface, a first end facing towards the
first end of the frame, a first side, and a second side opposite of
the first side; a biasing member connected to the carriage; a first
pulley connected to the frame; a first cable movably positioned
upon the first pulley, wherein the first cable includes a first
engaging end adapted for engagement by an exerciser, a second
engaging end opposite of the first engaging end connected to the
carriage, a first length between the first engaging end and the
second engaging end, a first run between the first pulley and the
carriage, and a second run between the first pulley and the first
engaging end; a first connector attached directly to or formed
within the carriage comprising a first set of holes configured for
selective adjustable attachment of the second engaging end, wherein
the first set of holes is positioned such that, when the second
engaging end is connected to a first hole of the first set of
holes, the first run is shorter than when the second engaging end
is connected to a second hole of the first set of holes; a second
pulley connected to the frame between the first end of the frame
and the first end of the carriage; a second cable movably
positioned upon the second pulley, wherein the second cable
includes a first engaging end adapted for engagement by an
exerciser, a second engaging end opposite of the first engaging end
connected to the carriage, a first length between the first
engaging end and the second engaging end of the second cable, a
first run between the second pulley and the carriage, and a second
run between the second pulley and the first engaging end of the
second cable; and a second connector attached directly to or formed
within the carriage comprising a second set of holes configured for
selectively adjustable attachment of the second engaging end of the
second cable, wherein the second set of holes is positioned such
that, when the second engaging end of the second cable is connected
to a first hole of the second set of holes, the first run is
shorter than when the second engaging end of the second cable is
connected to a second hole of the second set of holes; wherein the
first connector and the second connector are each comprised of a
bracket structure; wherein the first connector and the second
connector outwardly from the first end of the carriage.
18. The exercise machine of claim 17, wherein the bracket is
comprised of a plate structure.
19. The exercise machine of claim 17, wherein the upper surface of
the carriage, the upper surface of the first stationary platform
and the upper surface of the second stationary platform are on or
near a common plane.
20. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a first end, a
second end opposite of the first end, and a longitudinal axis
extending therebetween; a first platform connected to the frame
near the first end of the frame; a second platform connected to the
frame near the first end of the frame; a carriage movably
positioned upon the frame, wherein the carriage is adapted to be
movable along a portion of the longitudinal axis, wherein the
carriage includes an upper surface, a first end facing towards the
first end of the frame, a first side, and a second side opposite of
the first side; a biasing member connected to the carriage; a first
pulley connected to the frame; a first cable movably positioned
upon the first pulley, wherein the first cable includes a first
engaging end adapted for engagement by an exerciser, a second
engaging end opposite of the first engaging end connected to the
carriage, a first length between the first engaging end and the
second engaging end, a first run between the first pulley and the
carriage, and a second run between the first pulley and the first
engaging end; a first connector attached directly to or formed
within the carriage comprising a first set of holes configured for
selective adjustable attachment of the second engaging end, wherein
the first set of holes is positioned such that, when the second
engaging end is connected to a first hole of the first set of
holes, the first run is shorter than when the second engaging end
is connected to a second hole of the first set of holes; a second
pulley connected to the frame between the first end of the frame
and the first end of the carriage; a second cable movably
positioned upon the second pulley, wherein the second cable
includes a first engaging end adapted for engagement by an
exerciser, a second engaging end opposite of the first engaging end
connected to the carriage, a first length between the first
engaging end and the second engaging end of the second cable, a
first run between the second pulley and the carriage, and a second
run between the second pulley and the first engaging end of the
second cable; and a second connector attached directly to or formed
within the carriage comprising a second set of holes configured for
selectively adjustable attachment of the second engaging end of the
second cable, wherein the second set of holes is positioned such
that, when the second engaging end of the second cable is connected
to a first hole of the second set of holes, the first run is
shorter than when the second engaging end of the second cable is
connected to a second hole of the second set of holes; wherein the
first connector and the second connector are each comprised of a
bracket structure; wherein the first connector and the second
connector outwardly from the first end of the carriage; wherein the
first connector extends outwardly from the first side of the
carriage and the second connector extends outwardly from the second
side of the carriage; wherein the upper surface of the carriage,
the upper surface of the first stationary platform and the upper
surface of the second stationary platform are on or near a common
plane; wherein the first connector is positioned near a first
corner of the carriage and the second connector is positioned near
a second corner of the carriage.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/277,298 filed on Sep. 27, 2016 which issues
as U.S. Pat. No. 9,533,185 on Jan. 3, 2017 (LAGR-081), which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/543,407 filed on Nov.
17, 2014 now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,457,225 (Docket No.
LAGR-015), which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application
No. 61/905,503 filed Nov. 18, 2013 (Docket No. LAGR-014) and is a
continuation-in-part 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). 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 OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention relates generally to an exercise
machine and more specifically it relates to an exercise machine
cable adjustment system for providing efficient adjustment of the
effective length of one or more cables.
[0005] Description of the 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] Exercise machines have been in use for many years. One
common exercise machine that has enjoyed increasing popularity is
the Pilates machine. A conventional Pilates machine generally
includes a frame, a track extending across the frame, one or more
platforms at the end of the frame, one or more handles extending
from the frame, a carriage movably connected to the track, one or
more biasing members (e.g. springs, elastic bands) connected
between the frame and the carriage to apply a resistance biasing
force to the carriage, and a pair of cables with handles connected
to the carriage via pulleys. An individual positions their body
upon the carriage and then grasps the handles of the cables to pull
themselves along with the carriage towards an end of the exercise
machine. Moving the carriage away from the end of the frame towards
the opposite end of the frame results in the biasing members
applying the resistance biasing force which therapeutic or fitness
exercises can be effectively performed. U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,803,095
and 8,641,585 to Sebastien Lagree both disclose exemplary exercise
machines suitable for Pilates exercises and additional exercises.
One of the core principles for Pilates is control. "Contrology" was
Joseph Pilates' preferred name for his method. All Pilates
exercises should be performed with authoritative control of the
muscles working to lift against gravity as well as the resistance
of the springs, thereby controlling the movement of the body and
the apparatus.
[0008] Another core principle in Pilates is centering. For
exercisers to fully control their bodies, they must have a starting
place: the center. The center is the focal point of the Pilates
Method, and incorporates the major centering muscle groups, such as
abdominal and back muscles, gluteal and lower back muscles, hips,
and inner thighs. Centering also requires central placement on the
apparatus.
[0009] Yet another founding principle in Pilates is precision.
Precision is essential to correctly practicing the Pilates methods.
Without concentration on performing movements with precision each
time, and with each exercise repetition on a Pilates apparatus, all
the vital benefits of their Pilates routine will be lost.
[0010] One key advantage of the Pilates method over other forms of
exercise is that throughout an entire session, and more
importantly, throughout the lifelong practicing of Pilates,
exercisers perform smooth, flowing exercise forms, and do not
experience the damaging effects of exercises such as running that
subjects the exerciser to continual spinal and joint impact, or
weight power lifting that often strains and injures joints, muscles
and connective tissue. In some instances, contemporary Pilates
apparatuses incorporate various accessories that allow for the
performance of exercises that cannot be reasonably performed on
traditional apparatuses, for instance foot bars, handles, and cable
and pulley systems. Although many contemporary accessories were not
components of Joseph Pilates original apparatuses nearly 100 years
ago, the addition of such accessories must remain true to the
design principles that allow the Pilates method to be performed
with control, centering, and precision.
[0011] Therefore, contemporary accessories that are incorporated
into a Pilates apparatus must not only support the tenets of the
Pilates method, but must also maximize user safety by minimizing
injury to joints, muscles and connective tissue. In some instances,
cables and pulleys are arranged on a Pilates apparatus to allow for
the performance of pulling exercises. Handles attached to cables
allow exercisers to use their arms to overcome the spring
resistance force, thereby exercising shoulders, upper back, chest
muscles, and arm muscles. Foot straps attached to cables allow
exercisers to overcome the spring resistance through leg movements,
for instance, leg adductor and abductor exercises that exercise the
inner and outer thigh muscles.
[0012] Cables and pulleys are nearly always arranged in pairs such
that an exerciser can grasp one handle in each hand, and work the
arms simultaneously. By pulling on the handles, the exerciser can
start, perform, and finish the exercises of the left and right arms
in mirror fashion.
[0013] There are many factors unforeseen and unpredictable that
cause a pair of pull cables on a Pilates apparatus to be unequal
lengths. More specifically, a pull cable of a Pilates apparatus is
preferably described as a pull cable assembly, comprising a first
connector affixed to a first end of the cable allowing the cable to
be attached to the Pilates apparatus, a length of cable, a second
connector affixed to a second end of the cable, and a gripping
handle or foot strap attached to the second connector.
[0014] In some cases, connectors simply break, and the Pilates
instructor will find other connectors within the facility, and
conduct a fast repair. For instance, a large oblong carabineer
connector may be replaced with a short hook in order to return the
apparatus to operational status.
[0015] In other cases, prolonged use of the pull cables will cause
the cables to stretch in length, or fray where the cables pass
through pulleys. Cables in disrepair are replaced with new cables,
and often, only the most badly damaged cable of a pair of cables is
replaced. After replacement, the new cable is not stretched to the
same length as the older cable, causing the cables to be different
lengths.
[0016] In yet other practical circumstances, a handle attached to
one cable may break or come into disrepair. Over time, Pilates
studios amass an inventory of spare parts scavenged from other
apparatuses, and will find an acceptable replacement handle,
although not of original equipment design. There is no dimensional
standard for pull cable handles, therefore there is high likelihood
that the replacement handle has a pull length different from the
original equipment handle.
[0017] Still further, even if purchased from the original equipment
manufacturer at a later date, subcontracted manufacturers'
tolerances, engineering changes for cost reduction or reliability
improvements, or material changes typically mean that replacement
parts are not exact replicas of the original equipment, usually
resulting in a total pull cable assembly length that is different
from the pull cables installed on the Pilates apparatus.
[0018] Each and every one of these disadvantages to pull cable
assemblies of a Pilates apparatus are well known in the industry,
and each can result in different functional lengths of the two pull
cables on one Pilates apparatus.
[0019] In each of these cases where exercisers are performing
Pilates exercises on an apparatus with different length cables,
exercisers are forced into positions that violate each of the
foundational Pilates principles of control, centering and
precision. Even a slightly modified position that the body
naturally assumes to adjust to the different length cables subjects
the muscles, joints and connective tissue on one side of the body
to more force than the opposite side of the body. The additional
and unbalanced force can cause injury to the exerciser.
[0020] Unequal length pull cable assemblies creates forces against
the spring resistance that are biased towards one side of the body
rather than balancing the forces equally, or cause the left and
right hands, or left and fight feet to be positioned at different
locations when the left and right sides are exerting equal forces
against the resistance.
[0021] Further, use of pull cables of unequal lengths that bias
forces unequally on the body can result injury. Still further,
applying unequal forces on the outside corners of the slidable
carriage of a Pilates apparatus can cause skewing of the carriage
on the parallel rails, thereby causing accelerated or excessive
wear on rollers and rails.
[0022] Those skilled in the art will immediately appreciate the
need for, and the significant commercial value of a novel an
improved cable and pulley system of a Pilates apparatuses that
incorporate a fast, precise method of evening cable lengths such
that the user can remain centered and in precise control throughout
an exercise on the apparatus, and further ensures that the
resistance force is balanced evenly between the first and left
sides of the body.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The invention generally relates to an exercise machine cable
adjustment system which includes a frame, a carriage movably
positioned upon the frame and a pair of cables adjustably connected
to the carriage to allow for adjustment of the effective length for
each of the cables.
[0024] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the
features of the invention 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 invention 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 invention in detail, it is to be understood that
the invention 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
invention 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
[0025] Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of
the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same
becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the
accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate
the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0026] FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 2 is an upper perspective view of the present invention
with the cables extended pulling the carriage towards one end of
the exercise machine.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a top view of the carriage with the connectors for
adjusting the effective length of the cables.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a top view of the carriage with both cables
connected to the shortest length position on the connectors.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a top view of the carriage with the first cable
connected to a middle length position on the first connector and
with the second cable connected to the shortest length
position.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a top view of the present invention with the
carriage in the initial position near a first end of the exercise
machine with the cables connected in the same positions as
illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0032] FIG. 7 is a top view of the present invention with the
carriage in the initial position near a first end of the exercise
machine with the cables connected in the same positions as
illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a side view of the present invention.
[0034] FIG. 9 is a top view of the carriage with the connectors
comprised of holes within the carriage.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
A. Overview
[0035] Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar
reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several
views, FIGS. 1 through 9 illustrate an exercise machine cable
adjustment system 10, which comprises a frame 22, a carriage 30
movably positioned upon the frame 22 and a pair of cables
adjustably connected to the carriage 30 to allow for adjustment of
the effective length for each of the cables.
B. Exercise Machine
[0036] FIGS. 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 best illustrate the exercise machine
20. As illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8, the exercise machine
20 includes a frame 22 having a first distal end and a second
distal end opposite of the first distal end. The frame 22 is
comprised of an elongated structure having a longitudinal axis
extending between the first distal end and the second distal end.
The frame 22 may include one or more stationary platforms at the
distal ends thereof as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8.
[0037] The frame 22 includes one or more support rails 24a-b that
extend along the length of the frame 22 to movably support the
carriage 30. The support rails 24a-b are preferably parallel with
respect to the longitudinal axis of the frame 22 and spaced apart
from one another. The carriage 30 may include roller that slidably
support the carriage 30 upon the support rails 24a-b thereby
allowing the individual exercising to move the carriage 30 back and
forth between the distal ends of the frame 22. One or more biasing
members 21 (e.g. springs, elastic bands, actuators) extend between
one end of the frame 22 and the carriage 30 to provide a biasing
force to the carriage 30 during an exercise movement. U.S. Pat.
Nos. 7,803,095 and 8,641,585 to Sebastien Lagree both disclose
exemplary exercise machines 20 suitable for Pilates exercises and
are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
C. Carriage
[0038] The carriage 30 movably positioned upon the frame 22 to move
between the first distal end and the second distal end of the frame
22 along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis. The carriage
30 includes an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end 32
facing towards the first distal end of the frame 22, a second end
34 facing the second distal end of the frame 22, a first side 36, a
second side 38 opposite of the first side 36 as best illustrated in
FIGS. 3 through 5 of the drawings. The carriage 30 is generally a
relatively flat structure with the lower surface parallel with
respect to the support rails 24a-b. During an exercise, the
exerciser positions their body upon the upper surface of the
carriage 30 and then by pulling upon the cables causes the carriage
30 to move towards the first distal end of the frame 22 with the
biasing members 21 applying a counterforce to the movement towards
the first distal end of the frame 22.
[0039] The carriage 30 may have various shapes, sizes and
configurations. FIGS. 3 through 5 illustrate an exemplary shape for
the upper surface of the carriage 30 having a generally rectangular
structure with rounded corners along with a slightly convex first
end 32 and second end 34. The upper portion of the carriage 30 is
preferably comprised of a resilient gripping material such as a
padded rubber covering. The carriage 30 is further preferably
centrally aligned with a center longitudinal axis of the frame 22.
The carriage 30 is also preferably centrally aligned with the
pulleys 28a-b to that an individual centrally sitting upon the
carriage 30 will be centered with respect to the pulleys 28a-b
during an exercise as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 of the
drawings.
D. Cable and Pulley System
[0040] The present invention utilizes a cable and pulley system to
allow an individual to cause movement of the carriage 30 along the
longitudinal axis of the frame 22. The cable and pulley system of
the present invention may be comprised of a single cable 60 but it
is preferable to have two cables that are connected on opposing
portions of the carriage 30 and movably supported on opposing sides
of the frame 22. The discussion herein will discuss the usage of
two cables but this should not limit the number of cables used on
the present invention.
[0041] The cable and pulley system includes a first pulley 28a and
a second pulley 28b 28a-b connected to the frame 22 between the
first distal end and the first end 32 of the carriage 30. The
pulleys 28a-b are directly connected to the frame 22 or indirectly
connected to the frame 22 via stanchions 26a-b as illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings. The pulleys 28a-b are preferably
equidistantly positioned on opposing sides of a center longitudinal
axis of the frame 22 to maintain the proper centering and
positioning of the exerciser with respect to the pulleys 28a-b. The
pulleys 28a-b may pivot inwardly or outwardly to accommodate the
varying angles of the cables during an exercise. The pulleys 28a-b
are preferably positioned at or near the first distal end of the
frame 22 as illustrated in FIGS. 6 through 8 of the drawings. The
cables are movably positioned upon the pulleys 28a-b.
[0042] The first cable 60 includes a first engaging end 62 adapted
for engagement by an exerciser and a first engaging member 64
opposite of the first engaging end 62 that is connected to the
carriage 30. The first engaging end 62 may be comprised of a
handle, a strap, a looped strap, a first foot strap or other device
capable of being engaged by the hands, arms, feet and/or legs of
the exerciser to cause movement of the first cable 60.
[0043] The first cable 60 may be comprised of any elongated
flexible structure that has a length and capable of being used upon
the first pulley 28a. The first cable 60 may be constructed of
various material types. For example, the first cable 60 may be
comprised of a length of rope, wire rope (coated or uncoated),
straps, or belting (e.g. KEVLAR belting). The first cable 60 may
have various thicknesses and flexibility commonly utilized with
Pilates machines. The first cable 60 is preferably not stretchable
or elastic.
[0044] The first cable 60 has a first length between the first
engaging end 62 and the first engaging member 64. The first length
may vary based upon the size of the exercise machine 20, age of the
first cable 60, wearing of the first cable 60 and/or the amount of
usage of the first cable 60. Over time during usage, the first
cable 60 may extend or contract in length. The present invention
allows for adjustment of the effective length of the first cable 60
to ensure that the exerciser is always centered and symmetrical
with respect to the cables during an exercise.
[0045] The first cable 60 includes a first run between the first
pulley 28a and the carriage 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 of
the drawings. The first cable 60 continues to wrap around the first
pulley 28a wherein the first cable 60 includes a second run between
the first pulley 28a and the first engaging end 62 of the first
cable 60. The first length of the first cable 60 is equal to the
first run plus the second run added together. For example, if the
first run has a length of 3 feet and the second run has a length of
4 feet, the first length of the first cable 60 is 7 feet. As the
user exercises and pulls upon the second run of the first cable 60,
the second run increases in length and the first run
correspondingly decreases in length as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7
of the drawings.
[0046] The first engaging member 64 is adapted to be adjustably
connected to the carriage 30 in one of a plurality of positions.
Each of the positions the first engaging member 64 is connectable
to preferably provides a different length for the first run of the
first cable 60. The plurality of positions include at least a first
position (e.g. shortest length position) and a last position (e.g.
a longest length position). When the first engaging member 64 is
connected to the shortest length position the first run is shorter
than when the first engaging member 64 is connected to the longest
length position. There may be any number of middle positions
between the first position and the last position (e.g. 0, 1, 2, 3,
4) which provide a length for the first run of the first cable 60
that is between the lengths created by the first position and the
last position. FIGS. 3 through 5 illustrate the usage of 5
different positions for the first engaging member 64 to connect to
with each of the positions providing a different length for the
first run of the first cable 60. The longest length position on the
carriage 30 is positioned a first distance from the first pulley
28a and the shortest length position is positioned a second
distance from the first pulley 28a, wherein the first distance is
longer than the second distance thereby providing a corresponding
difference for the first run of the first cable 60.
[0047] The second cable 70 preferably is identical or similar to
the first cable 60 (e.g. length, width, flexibility, material type,
etc.). It is preferable that the first cable 60 and the second
cable 70 have the same length. However, the present invention is
designed to accommodate the usage of a first cable 60 that has a
different length (e.g. shorter or longer) than the second cable 70
via the adjustment system thereby maintaining a centered position
for the exerciser during the exercise movement.
[0048] The second cable 70 includes a second engaging end 72
adapted for engagement by an exerciser and a second engaging member
74 opposite of the second engaging end 72 that is connected to the
carriage 30. The second engaging end 72 may be comprised of a
handle, a strap, a looped strap, a second foot strap or other
device capable of being engaged by the hands, arms, feet and/or
legs of the exerciser to cause movement of the second cable 70.
[0049] The second cable 70 may be comprised of any elongated
flexible structure that has a length and capable of being used upon
the second pulley 28b. The second cable 70 may be constructed of
various material types. For example, the second cable 70 may be
comprised of a length of rope, wire rope (coated or uncoated),
straps, or belting (e.g. KEVLAR belting). The second cable 70 may
have various thicknesses and flexibility commonly utilized with
Pilates machines. The second cable 70 is preferably not stretchable
or elastic.
[0050] The second cable 70 has a second length between the second
engaging end 72 and the second engaging member 74. The second
length may vary based upon the size of the exercise machine 20, age
of the second cable 70, wearing of the second cable 70 and/or the
amount of usage of the second cable 70. Over time during usage, the
second cable 70 may extend or contract in length. The present
invention allows for adjustment of the effective length of the
second cable 70 to ensure that the exerciser is always centered and
symmetrical with respect to the cables during an exercise.
[0051] The second cable 70 includes a first run between the second
pulley 28b and the carriage 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 of
the drawings. The first run of the first cable 60 may be different
than the first run of the second cable 70.
[0052] The second cable 70 continues to wrap around the second
pulley 28b wherein the second cable 70 includes a second run
between the second pulley 28b and the second engaging end 72 of the
second cable 70. The second run of the first cable 60 is preferably
equal in length to the second run of the second cable 70 thereby
ensuring that the portions of the cables engaged by the user have
the same length from the pulleys 28a-b to the user.
[0053] The second length of the second cable 70 is equal to the
first run plus the second run added together. For example, if the
first run has a length of 3 feet and the second run has a length of
4 feet, the second length of the second cable 70 is 7 feet. As the
user exercises and pulls upon the second run of the second cable
70, the second run increases in length and the first run
correspondingly decreases in length as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7
of the drawings.
[0054] The second engaging member 74 is adapted to be adjustably
connected to the carriage 30 in one of a plurality of positions.
The plurality of positions for the second engaging member 74
preferably mirror the plurality of positions for the first engaging
member 64. Each of the positions the second engaging member 74 is
connectable to preferably provides a different length for the
second run of the second cable 70. The plurality of positions
include at least a first position (e.g. shortest length position)
and a last position (e.g. a longest length position). When the
second engaging member 74 is connected to the shortest length
position the first run is shorter than when the second engaging
member 74 is connected to the longest length position. There may be
any number of middle positions between the second position and the
last position (e.g. 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) which provide a length for the
first run of the second cable 70 that is between the lengths
created by the second position and the last position. FIGS. 3
through 5 illustrate the usage of 5 different positions for the
second engaging member 74 to connect to with each of the positions
providing a different length for the first run of the second cable
70. The longest length position on the carriage 30 is positioned a
second distance from the second pulley 28b and the shortest length
position is positioned a second distance from the second pulley
28b, wherein the second distance is longer than the second distance
thereby providing a corresponding difference for the first run of
the second cable 70. The second run of the first cable 60 is
preferably equal in length to the second run of the second cable
70.
[0055] The plurality of positions for the first engaging member 64
and the second engaging member 74 are preferably comprised of first
eyelets 42 and second eyelets 52 respectively within the carriage
30. The first engaging member 64 and the second engaging member 74
selectively each engage one of the first eyelets 42 and second
eyelets 52. The first eyelets 42 are preferably positioned on a
side of the carriage 30 opposite of the second eyelets 52
equidistantly spaced from the center longitudinal axis of the frame
22.
[0056] The number of first eyelets 42 is preferably the same as the
number of second eyelets 52, but the number may differ. The
positions of the first eyelets 42 preferably mirrors the positions
of the second eyelets 52 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 5 of the
drawings. The first eyelets 42 and the second eyelets 52 are
further preferably not positioned inwardly with respect to the
corresponding pulleys 28a-b and instead are preferably positioned
outwardly with respect to the corresponding pulleys 28a-b as
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 of the drawings.
[0057] The increase or decrease in distance from the pulleys 28a-b
for the eyelets 42, 52 may increase various amounts (e.g. 0.1
inches, 0.2 inches, 0.3 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches) thereby
allowing the user to accurately adjust the length of the second run
of the cables. The distance gained or lost to the pulleys 28a-b for
each of the cables may be the same or vary. The distance gained or
lost to the pulleys 28a-b from the carriage 30 for the first run of
the cables varies based on the position with the distance
increasing more as the eyelets 42, 52 on the sides 36, 38 of the
carriage 30 are used.
[0058] The first eyelets 42 and the second eyelets 52 preferably
are positioned near the first end 32 and/or the sides 36, 38 of the
carriage 30. The eyelets 42, 52 may extend through the portions of
the carriage 30 the user positions their body upon or through an
extended structure such as the connectors 40, 50.
[0059] The first engaging member 64 and the second engaging member
74 may be comprised of any structure capable of catchably engaging
the carriage 30. The first engaging member 64 and the second
engaging member 74 are illustrated as having a hook structure to
allow for convenient removal and attachment to the various eyelets
42, 52. The first engaging member 64 and the second engaging member
74 are inserted in a catchable manner into the eyelets 42, 52 which
allows for removal and adjustment thereof based on the current
length of the second run of the corresponding cable 60, 70.
E. Connectors
[0060] The carriage 30 includes a first connector 40 near the first
side 36 and a second connector 50 near the second side 38. The
first engaging member 64 is adjustably connected to the first
connector 40 and the second engaging member 74 is adjustably
connected to the second connector 50 as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and
5 of the drawings. The connectors 40, 50 may be comprised of a
single structure or two separate structures. The connectors 40, 50
preferably mirror one another to provide for a consistent
adjustment structure that provides the same increase or decrease in
the length of the second run of the cable 60, 70.
[0061] The first connector 40 includes a plurality of first eyelets
42 that the first engaging member 64 selectively engages and the
second connector 50 includes a plurality of second eyelets 52 that
the second engaging member 74 selectively engages. The first
connector 40 and the second connector 50 may be comprised of a
bracket extending outwardly from the carriage 30. FIGS. 3 through 5
illustrate an L-shaped bracket structure for the connectors 40, 50.
The bracket may be comprised of a plate structure or other type of
structure with the eyelets 42, 52 extending vertically,
horizontally or at an angle through.
[0062] The connectors 40, 50 extend preferably outwardly from the
first end 32 and/or the sides 36, 38 of the carriage 30 as
illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 5 of the drawings. The connectors
40, 50 preferably extend about the opposing corners of the first
end 32 of the carriage 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 through 5 of
the drawings. The connectors 40, 50 are preferably comprised of an
outwardly curved structure that extends outwardly from the corners
of the carriage 30.
F. Operation of Preferred Embodiment
[0063] In use, the user connects the first run for each of the
cables to the same position on the respective connector 40, 50
assuming that the cables each have the same length as illustrated
in FIG. 4 of the drawings. The user then pulls the cables taught so
that the second runs aligned to determine if one of the cables are
longer/shorter than the other and then adjust the same accordingly
so the second runs of the cables are the same length.
[0064] For example, if the second run of the first cable 60 is
longer than the second run of the second cable 70, the user would
move the first engaging member 64 to the next position that
increases the length of the first run and decreases the length of
the second run of the first cable 60. The user then compares the
respective lengths of the second runs of the cables again. If the
second runs are now equal, the user does not make any further
adjustments. However, if the second run of the first cable 60 is
still longer, the user then moves the first engaging member 64 to
the next position that increases the length of the first run and
decreases the length of the second run of the first cable 60. This
process continues until the lengths of the second runs of the
cables are equal to one another. Because the initial inward
positions of the eyelets 42, 52 provide a smaller incremental
change in length than the outer eyelets, if the second run of the
first cable 60 becomes slightly shorter than the second run of the
second cable 70 during adjustment, the user may move the second
engaging member 74 by a position to slightly shorten the second run
of the second cable 70. After the second runs of the cables are
equal, the individual is able to use the exercise machine 20 in an
effective manner without one side of their body encountering more
stress than the other side of their body when centered.
[0065] 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 present
invention, 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 present
invention 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.
* * * * *