U.S. patent application number 15/453002 was filed with the patent office on 2017-06-22 for exercise device.
The applicant listed for this patent is James Christopher Bach. Invention is credited to James Christopher Bach, Jonathan M. LaVieri.
Application Number | 20170173380 15/453002 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54477326 |
Filed Date | 2017-06-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170173380 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bach; James Christopher ; et
al. |
June 22, 2017 |
EXERCISE DEVICE
Abstract
An exercise device that includes a frame, a user interface; a
connection cable and a plurality of components that provide
resistance to the cable and user interface. These components
include a programmable, driven carriage capable of vertical
movement between first and second positions and including one or
more pulleys mounted thereon, wherein the cable extending away from
the first end and user interface passes around the one or more
pulleys on the carriage, a slider mechanism moveable between first
and second positions and including one or more pulleys mounted
thereon, and a pneumatic resistance device that is secured to the
frame and that is operatively associated with the slider mechanism
to provide resistance to slider mechanism movement between the
first and second positions.
Inventors: |
Bach; James Christopher;
(Chicago, IL) ; LaVieri; Jonathan M.; (Chicago,
IL) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bach; James Christopher |
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|
US |
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|
Family ID: |
54477326 |
Appl. No.: |
15/453002 |
Filed: |
March 8, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14922839 |
Oct 26, 2015 |
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15453002 |
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62073483 |
Oct 31, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 71/0619 20130101;
A63B 21/00069 20130101; A63B 21/4043 20151001; A63B 23/0355
20130101; A63B 21/4017 20151001; A63B 2022/002 20130101; A63B
21/4035 20151001; A63B 23/0405 20130101; A63B 23/03508 20130101;
A63B 21/0087 20130101; A63B 2022/0041 20130101; A63B 21/4011
20151001; A63B 21/4009 20151001; A63B 21/4033 20151001; A63B
2225/093 20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101; A63B 21/4013 20151001;
A63B 24/0087 20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 21/156 20130101;
A63B 22/0017 20151001 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/00 20060101
A63B022/00; A63B 71/06 20060101 A63B071/06; A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00; A63B 21/008 20060101 A63B021/008; A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A method of exercising for a user comprising: (a) gripping a
user interface of an exercise device having a cable having a first
end associated with the user interface and an axis point along a
length of the cable, the axis point continuously moving back and
forth between first and second positions; (b) applying a tension to
the cable by maintaining the user interface at an extended position
relative to the axis point during the continuous back and forth
movement of the axis point.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein the exercise device further
includes a frame and a carriage engaged with the frame and the
cable and capable of movement and wherein during (a) the carriage
continuously moves back and forth between first and second
positions of the carriage to cause the axis point to continuously
move back and forth between the first and second positions of the
axis point.
13. The method of claim 12 wherein the exercise device further
includes a motor and wherein (a) includes starting the motor to
cause the carriage to continuously move back and forth between the
first and second positions of the carriage.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein starting the motor includes
pressing a button.
15. The method of claim 13 further including applying a tension to
the cable by moving the user interface to an extended position
relative to the axis point before starting the motor.
16. The method of claim 12 wherein the exercise device further
includes a computer controller and the method includes setting
parameters for the exercise including at least setting the distance
between the first and second positions of the carriage.
17. The method of claim 12 wherein the exercise device further
includes a computer controller and the method includes setting
parameters for the exercise including at least a speed of the
carriage during its movement between the first and second positions
of the carriage.
18. The method of claim 11 wherein the exercise device further
includes a slider mechanism that is moveable between first and
second positions and a pneumatic resistance device secured to the
frame and operatively associated with the slider mechanism and
wherein during (a) the pneumatic resistance device provides
resistance to the slider mechanism during movement between the
first and second positions of the slider mechanism.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein the exercise device further
includes a computer controller and the method includes setting
parameters for the exercise including setting at least an amount of
resistance provided by the pneumatic device.
20. The method of claim 11 wherein the exercise device further
includes a motor and the method further includes starting the motor
to cause the axis point to continuously move between the first and
second positions of the axis point.
21. The method of claim 11 wherein the exercise device further
includes a frame, a carriage operationally associated with the
frame and a motor and wherein during (a) the motor continuously
drives the carriage back and forth relative to the frame between
first and second positions to cause the axis point to continuously
move between the first and second positions of the axis point.
22. The method of claim 11 wherein the user interface comprises a
handle and (a) includes gripping the handle.
23. A method of exercising for a user comprising: (a) gripping a
user interface of an exercise device having a cable having a first
end associated with the user interface, the exercise device further
having a frame, a carriage engaged with the frame and including one
or more pulleys mounted thereon, the cable operatively associated
with the pulleys to define an axis point along a length of the
cable and a motor driving the carriage between first and second
positions of the carriage to move the axis point between first and
second positions of the axis point; (b) applying a tension to the
cable by maintaining the user interface at an extended position
relative to the axis point during the continuous back and forth
movement of the axis point.
24. The method of claim 23 where the exercise device further
includes a motor and wherein (a) includes starting the motor to
continuously move the carriage back and forth between the first and
second positions of the carriage.
25. The method of claim 23 further including applying a tension to
the cable by moving the user interface to an extended position
relative to the axis point before starting the motor.
26. The method of claim 23 wherein the exercise device further
includes a slider mechanism that is moveable between first and
second positions and a pneumatic resistance device secured to the
frame and operatively associated with the slider mechanism and
wherein during (a) the pneumatic resistance device provides
resistance to the slider mechanism movement between the first and
second positions of the slider movement.
27. A method of exercising for a user comprising: (a) gripping a
user interface of an exercise device having a cable having a first
end associated with the user interface, the exercise device
including a frame, a carriage engaged with the frame and including
one or more pulleys mounted thereon, the cable operatively
associated with the pulleys to define an axis point along a length
of the cable, and a motor for driving the carriage between first
and second positions of the carriage to move the axis point between
first and second positions of the axis point; (b) applying a
tension to the cable by moving the user interface to an extended
position relative to the axis point; (c) causing the motor to start
to drive the carriage back and forth between the first and second
positions of the carriage to move the axis point between the first
and second positions of the axis point; (d) applying a tension to
the cable by maintaining the user interface at an extended position
relative to the axis point during the continuous back and forth
movement of the axis point.
28. The method of claim 27 wherein the exercise device further
includes a computer controller and the method includes setting
parameters for the exercise.
29. The method of claim 27 wherein (c) includes pressing a button.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application No.
62/073,483 filed Oct. 31, 2014, the entire content of which is
expressly incorporated herein by reference thereto.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus and,
more particularly, to an adjustable exercise apparatus that can be
used for a various exercise routines. The present invention
particularly pertains to an exercise apparatus for stimulating
different muscles and muscle fibers by continuously changing the
axis point of the user interface of the device, thus providing
differing trajectories that require different responses by the
different muscle or muscle groups. The exercise becomes more
challenging due to the repeated change of the axis point throughout
the exercise program.
[0003] Staying physically active and exercising is an essential
part of life, as maintaining an active life-style not only
replenishes a person's state of mind by releasing chronic tension
and increasing self-awareness, but also ensures that chronic
diseases and various other ailments are effectively kept in check.
It is clear, that as the incidence of debilitating medical
conditions such as but not limited to heart and cardiovascular
diseases diminish due to an improved public awareness regarding
maintaining a healthy life-style and regular physical activity,
there is still an unmet need for improved fitness exercise
apparatuses from the perspective of actively exercising
individuals, that greatly aide in working out multiple muscle
groups at the same time and improvement of their physical form.
[0004] Many exercise devices in the prior art have been developed
that use weights to provide resistance to the exertion of muscular
force. Such machines commonly employ weight stacks that allow a
user to vary the weight lifted during the exercise.
[0005] Pneumatic exercise equipment has also been developed to
simulate the desired characteristics of a weight stack exercise
machine by easily permitting the weight lifter to increase or
decrease the resistance. These pneumatic exercise machines are
advantageous because they permit the weight lifter to increase
speed without the resistance changing because such machines do not
have a significant inertia of motion. Consequently, pneumatic
exercise equipment ensures full muscular effort throughout the
stroke. There exists a number of United States patents are examples
of such machines and devices.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 7,887,468 discloses a resistance system for
fitness equipment, which includes a carriage 26, which includes a
series of pulleys 116 mounted at the lower end. A weight cable 118
connects the individual weight blocks 114 to the carriage 26 by way
of the respective pulley 116. This system is disclosed with
resistance cords only, but the same system can be used with a
number of resistance sources including weights, springs, pneumatic
and hydraulic cylinders, or any spring material and configuration
which allows for the storage of mechanical energy stretching,
bending, twisting or other physical deformation.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 7,762,934 discloses exercise apparatus based
on a variable mode hydraulic cylinder which delivers a controllable
fast acting force. The invention uses a hydraulic cylinder with
features that allow high acceleration rates, rapid changes of force
level and direction, and positive fierce limitation. In the
preferred embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder is composed of a
rod-less, hydraulic cylinder coupled to a cable and pulley system.
A water source delivers water to generate a force against an inner
bi-directionally moving piston to generate a regulated
movement.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 7,335,141 discloses an exercise apparatus (10)
has two cables (12a-b) having a proximate end and a distal end. The
proximate end of each cable is connected to a handle (14a-b),
respectively, designed to be pulled by a user. The distal end of
each cable (12a-b) is coupled to a resistance source (16a-b) which
may be a weight stack, a spring, an elastic band, a hydraulic or
pneumatic damper; e.g., a piston in a cylinder, or a combination of
one or more weights, springs and dampers. Cables (12a-b) pass
through at least three pulleys: a first pulley (18a-b) carried on
trolleys (20a-b); a central second pulley (22a-b), and an upper
third pulley (24a-b) mounted on a frame above the respective
resistance source (16a-b). The central pulleys (22a-b) are fixedly
mounted adjacent each other in the vicinity of a substantially
horizontal, imaginary axis 30 and trolleys (20a-b) can be moved
without adjusting the lengths of respective cables (12a-b). As the
trolleys (20a-b) are moved, the lengths of the cables between their
proximate ends at handles 14a-b) and the portions which pass around
the pulleys (18a-b) remain substantially constant.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 7,722,509 discloses a handicapped accessible
exercise apparatus having a central housing with two pivoting
extension arms. Cables extend from weight stacks within the housing
to movable cable guides on the arms for engagement by a user. By
adjusting the positions of the arms and the cable guides, the
apparatus can be configured to facilitate various exercises and to
accommodate users of various sizes. The apparatus is provided with
button-operated locks for allowing users with limited manual
dexterity to easily lock and unlock the positions of the extension
arms and the cable guides.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 7,682,295 discloses an exercise apparatus
provides multiple resistance patterns by a cable attached to a
pulley, including a linear axis, which is referred to as path of
travel. Changing resistance patterns in an exercise apparatus is
accomplished by moving a cable pivot point within a channel. The
channel may take the form of numerous shapes. Multiple shapes may
comprise one continuous channel. The placement of the pivot point
and surrounding channel shape dictate the resistance pattern along
the range of exercise motion. The pivot point is attached to two
cables, one leading to a weight, the other leading to the user of
the exercise apparatus.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 7,291,100 teaches a sports apparatus, which
can provide a variable resistance to a user. A resilient panel can
be adjusted for custom resistance. The resilient panel is provided
with pulleys and cables arranged to deflect the panel when a user
provides a force on the cable. The user can transmit force to the
resilient panel by attaching a suitable exercise implement to the
cable. The resilient can also be arranged as required by the type
of exercise and for convenience.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 7,201,712 discloses an exercise device with
variable resistive force may include a variety of means such as
pneumatic or hydraulic pumps and programmable controllers
therefore, as well as specially designed lead pulleys as described
herein above can be employed to cause the resistive force to
oscillate in magnitude and/or direction during a repetition. With
the use of programmable computer means, the waveform and/or the
frequency of oscillations in the resistive force can also be made
to fluctuate.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 6,770,015 is directed to an exercise apparatus
that includes a frame housing a weight stack. A sliding assembly is
coupled to the frame and weight stack. The sliding assembly
includes, but is not limited to, a guide column, a sliding element
disposed on the guide column, a pulley attached to the sliding
element, a first mount disposed at one end of the guide column, a
second mount coupled to the sliding element, and a first cable
disposed in the pulley. The first cable has a first end attached to
one end of the guide column, an intermediate portion disposed in
the pulley, and a second end terminating in a handle. A second
cable may have a first end attached to the sliding element or the
first mount and a second end attached to the weight stack. In one
embodiment, the guide column, first mount, and second mount are
rotatable independently of each other.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 6,482,134 discloses a total body exercise
apparatus including a body support sled, hand rings and hydraulic
and weighted resistance. A line trolley, suspended from a header by
an assembly of pulleys and lines, tracks on a pair of rails, to
pivotally support the upper end of the sled frame. At its lower end
the sled is pivotally joined to a frame mounted radial indexing
apparatus. That apparatus operatively positions a set of front and
rear foot platforms, linked to the sled, to transmit leg force and
assist in its elevation.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 6,447,430 relates to an exercise apparatus
having a frame with a pair of upstanding sections disposed
substantially at right angles to each other, a weight stack mounted
on each of the frame sections, a cable coupled to each of the
weight stacks for transferring a pull on the cable to the weights
in the stack, a pulley block through which the cable is pulled, a
leg connected to each of the frame sections for movement between a
supporting position and a storage position, interlock means between
the legs and respective ones of the weight stacks for preventing
the weights from being raised when the legs are in the storage
position, a bench, which is connected to the frame and can be
folded up between the two frame sections for storage, a carriage
mounted on each of the frame sections and adapted to be positioned
at different heights, and means mounting one of the pulley blocks
on each of the carriages such that each of the pulley blocks is
free to pivot about two axes of rotation so that the pulley block
can follow the cable and remain aligned with the cable regardless
of the direction in which the cable is pulled.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 6,267,735 discloses a therapeutic continuous
passive motion device moves a patient's leg through a plurality of
cycles of motion. A "Comfort Zone" range of motion feature allows
an operator to temporarily increase the flexion angle (or decrease
the extension angle), and the device will automatically decrease
the flexion angle (or automatically increase the extension angle)
at a predetermined rate over a period of treatment time, so that
the device may return to operation between the preset operational
limits of the range of motion. In one embodiment not shown in the
figures, the drive means may include a pulley and a cord mounted
thereon, which cord is adapted to be moved along the axis of the
frame by operation of the motor. In such embodiment, the driver is
attached to the cord and is adapted to move along the axis of the
frame as the cord is moved by operation of the motor. In another
embodiment, the drive means may be a piston mounted in the frame
and disposed along the axis thereof, having a piston rod adapted to
be moved along the axis of the frame by operation of a pump, and
the driver is attached to the piston rod and is adapted to move
along the axis of the frame as the piston is operated by the
pump.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,776,040 teaches an exercise apparatus has an
auxiliary weight system which can be used with virtually any
exercise apparatus irrespective of its stroke length and which is
relatively free of resistance due to friction caused by the
interaction of the weights and their guide rods. The exercise
apparatus of the present invention includes: a frame; an exercise
arm attached to and movable relative to the frame; a set of first
weights, each of which is of a first magnitude; a first moving unit
for moving at least one of the set of first weights along a first
path; a set of second weights, each of which is of a second
magnitude that differs from the first magnitude; a second moving
unit for moving at least one of the set of second weights along a
second path that is non-coincident with the first path; and an
interconnecting assembly for interconnecting the first and second
moving units with the exercise arm such that movement of the
exercise arm draws at least one of the first set of weights and at
least one of the second set of weights along, respectively, the
first and second paths.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 5,529,552 discloses an exercise apparatus,
which comprises a support platform comprising an exercise and/or
support surface formed by a plurality of modular members which may
be interconnected to increase or decrease the size of the exercise
surface, first and second utility arms extending from opposite
sides of the support platform. Each of the utility arms comprises
an upper segment pivotally connected to a lower segment. The upper
segment may comprise one or more pulleys and corresponding ropes
which may be pulled by a person against a selectable resistance
provided by an accommodating resistance system embedded within the
support platform. The resistance system includes a hydraulic
chamber filled with an incompressible fluid medium, a piston, a
channel, and a relief valve, whereby one can selectively change the
resistance in infinitely small increments. A computer system
provides information regarding resistance exercises.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 5,076,574 discloses a portable, stable
motor-less rope-climbing exercise apparatus comprises a stable
support frame, a plurality of rope pulleys and rope guides mounted
on the frame, an endless rope extending around the pulleys and
guides to form a path which includes a vertically extending rope
climbing portion, and hydraulic braking assembly coupled to the
pulley system for controlling the rate of movement of the rope
based upon the weight of the user when the user is climbing the
rope.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 4,500,089 teaches a saddle-type seat for
supporting the user in substantially an upright position with the
legs being maintained in position during use of the apparatus. A
user-actuated lever is provided with a padded roller on one end
thereof. The padded roller is adapted to engage the back of the
user at a position substantially in alignment with the shoulder
blades and the other end of the lever is pivotally supported at a
position in substantial alignment with the waist of the user. The
other end of the user-actuated lever is operatively connected to
weights. The connection between the user-actuated lever and the
weights includes a variable radius cam for providing a variable
resistance force to lifting and lowering the weights with
corresponding movement of the user between a first position with
the spine in a forwardly bent position and a second position with
the spine in a substantially straight position to provide a full
range exercising of the muscles associated with the lower back of
the user.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 4,257,593 relates to an exercising device
having a frame, a member borne by the frame for movement relative
to the frame, a source of compressed gas, a reservoir having an
internal chamber of adjustable capacity connecting in receiving
relation to gas from the source, and an assembly interconnecting
the member and the frame and connected to the reservoir for
compression of a selected volume of gas in the internal chamber
upon movement of the member relative to the frame.
[0022] US Patent Application Publication US 2014/0121071 A1 is
concerned with an exercise machine comprising a frame and a weight
stack. The weight stack may be positioned within a portion of the
frame. The exercise machine may further comprise a weighted cable
having a first end configured for selective attachment to weight
plates of the weight stack, a guide track defining a path, and a
movable pulley assembly coupled to the guide track. A positioning
mechanism may be coupled to the movable pulley assembly and
configured to move and position the movable pulley assembly along
the path defined by the guide track. Additionally, the weighted
cable may be routed through the movable pulley assembly.
[0023] A specific pneumatic exercise device that offers a range of
adjustability and resistances so that a single piece of exercise
equipment can be used to perform a number of different exercises
and that produces generally constant resistance throughout the
entire exercise stroke is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,955,235,
7,686,749 and 7,172,538, which disclose a compact pneumatic
cylinder exercise apparatus that can be mounted to or supported by
the floor, wall or other support structure, wherein a pulley wheel
is rotatably connected to the piston rod and a cable is wrapped
about at least a portion of the pulley wheel. While this machine is
useful, it has been found to have certain deficiencies, one of
which is that the user must initially set or fix the axis point,
i.e., the point at which the cable's pulley height is determined.
This limits the challenge to the user in the plane of motion. As
such, improvements in these type devices are desired. Accordingly,
the present invention has been made to overcome this deficiency and
provide an improved exercise device that can provide more complete
routines without requiring manual changes to the axis point or
pneumatic resistance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0024] The present invention relates to an exercise device
comprising a frame; a cable having first and second ends, with the
first end provided with a user interface which may be a handle, an
arm or leg band, a bar, or a seat; and a plurality of components
that provide resistance to the cable and user interface. These
components further include a carriage capable of movement between
first and second positions and including one or more pulleys
mounted thereon, wherein the cable extending away from the first
end and user interface passes around the one or more pulleys on the
carriage. The device includes means for driving the carriage back
and forth between the first and second positions during an
exercise.
[0025] The means for driving the carriage preferably comprises a
motor and an elongated member with the carriage operatively
associated with the elongated member for reciprocal movement
thereon. Advantageously, the elongated member is cylindrical, the
motor rotates the elongated member on its axis, the elongated
member extends vertically in the frame and includes a spiral track
thereon, and the carriage includes means for engaging the track.
Thus, rotation of the elongated member in one direction raises the
carriage while rotation of the elongated member in the opposite
direction lowers the carriage, with the carriage and elongated
member configured for vertical movement over a distance of 2 to 5
feet.
[0026] Another useful improved component of the invention is a
slider mechanism that is moveable between first and second
positions and including one or more pulleys mounted thereon. The
slider mechanism is operatively associated with a pneumatic
resistance device that is secured to the frame and that provides
resistance to the movement of the slider mechanism between the
first and second positions.
[0027] The pneumatic device comprises a piston and cylinder and the
exercise device further comprises an accumulator affixed to the
frame and operatively associated with the cylinder of the pneumatic
device to reduce pressure increases therein as the piston is moved.
The slider mechanism preferably moves vertically along a
cylindrical rod that is affixed to the housing frame and the
exercise device further comprises a linkage between the piston of
the pneumatic device and the slider mechanism so that upward
movement of the slider mechanism is inhibited by the pneumatic
device.
[0028] To facilitate operation of the device, a pulley block
arrangement is provided that includes one or more fixed and one or
more vertically movable pulleys for increasing the tension on the
cable, with the vertically movable pulley(s) of the pulley block
arrangement connected to the slider mechanism by connection means.
The connection means preferably comprises a separate cable or rod
member such that the slider mechanism is configured for vertical
movement over a distance of 1/4 to 2 feet along the cylindrical
rod. Preferably, the pulley block arrangement includes two fixed
pulleys and two vertically movable pulleys and is also configured
for vertical movement over a distance of 1/4 to 2 feet. The device
includes a plurality of pulleys fixed to the frame for guiding the
cable extending away from the carriage pulley(s) to the pulley
block arrangement and back to the carriage wherein the second end
of the cable is affixed to the carriage.
[0029] The exercise device also preferably includes a computer
controller for programming of an exercise routine, wherein the user
is able to set parameters including at least an amount of
resistance provided by the pneumatic device, and the speed of
travel of the carriage.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The foregoing and other features, aspects and advantages of
the present invention will now be described with reference to the
drawings of preferred embodiments, which are intended to illustrate
and not to limit the present invention, and wherein:
[0031] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the exercise device of the
present invention to illustrate the interaction and operation of
the various components therein.
[0032] FIG. 2 is a side view of the exercise device of the present
invention.
[0033] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the exercise device of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0034] The following definitions set forth the parameters of the
present invention.
[0035] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the
running lengthwise rather than across the width of a material,
whereas "vertical" refers to the running in the direction of the
force of gravity.
[0036] As used herein, the term "tension" refers to a pulling force
exerted by each end of a string, cable, chain, or a similar
one-dimensional continuous object.
[0037] As used herein, the term "pulley" refers to a wheel system
on an axis that is designed to support movement and change of
direction of a cable along its circumference.
[0038] As used herein, the term "pneumatic cylinder" refers to
mechanical devices, which use the power of compressed gas such as
but not limited to air to produce a force in a reciprocating linear
motion.
[0039] As used herein, the term "accumulator" refers to a
container, which stores pressurized air for release into the
pneumatic cylinder via an air equalization line.
[0040] As used herein, the term "actuator" refers to a type of
motor that is responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or
system. It is operated by pneumatic pressure.
[0041] As used herein, the term "motor" refers to a device that is
able to create motion.
[0042] As used herein, the term "cable" collectively refers to
steel or fiber, rope, cord, or the like.
[0043] As used herein, the term "radial motion" refers to movement
of an object along the circumference of a circle or rotation along
a circular path.
[0044] As used herein, the term "screw" refers to a vertical pole,
which comprises a 20 mm.times.20 mm pitch such that the "screw"
starts rotating, as the motion from the motor is directly
transferred to the "screw". As the "screw" rotates, the radial
motion is transferred to linear motion along a linear track.
[0045] As used herein, the term "user interface" refers to a handle
that is movable between a retracted position and extended
position.
[0046] As used herein, the term "reciprocation" is a repetitive
up-and-down or back-and-forth linear motion. The two opposite
motions that comprise a single reciprocation cycle are called
strokes.
[0047] As used herein, the term "piston" refers to a component
capable of performing a reciprocating movement. It is the moving
component that is contained by a cylinder.
[0048] As used herein, the term "resistance" refers to a force with
an opposing direction and motion.
[0049] As used herein, the term "retracted" refers to the
shrinking, whereas the term "extended" refers to the
enlargement.
[0050] As used herein, the term "axis point" is used
interchangeably with a "movable pulley system".
[0051] As used herein, the terms "movable pulley assembly" mounted
on the "linear track block" is also known to interchangeably
reflect the term "screw housing adapter assembly", which includes
the "movable pulley assembly" mounted on the "linear track block"
in direct horizontal operative extension and communication with a
ball-nut top and a ball-nut lower housing.
[0052] The present invention is an exercise device that is improved
over the device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,955,235 (the '235
patent) but shares some common features, such that the entire
content of that patent is expressly incorporated herein by
reference thereto.
[0053] The present exercise apparatus includes a pneumatic
resistance unit that allows for constant or variable resistance and
variable degrees and extensions of motion by the user. In addition,
the resistance unit is operatively associated with a carriage
engaged with the user interface. The movement of the carriage is
programmable and can vary depending upon the desired exercise
routine. The combination is designed to permit the user to perform
a wide variety of exercises to work various muscles or muscle
groups without having to modify the equipment or user's working
position. As will be apparent from the following description of the
preferred embodiments, the carriage is movable but the pneumatic
resistance unit can be stationary or movable. The device can
include movable pulleys that allow the user to change the direction
in which the user pushes or pulls during a set of the exercise
repetitions. The resistance unit is preferably provided in the
device for use as a stationary exercise apparatus.
[0054] One of the major goals and obvious advantages of the
exercise apparatus over all other pulley pieces and exercise
apparatus that are currently available is the incorporation of
programmed motion-profiles affording continuous motion and movement
of the movable pulley system during the duration of the
exercise.
[0055] The pulley system moves during the actual pull or press of
the handle, while the cable is under the programmed tension of
resistance. During the range of motion, there must be appropriate
changes in the allowed length of the cable to off-set the changing
axis point.
[0056] This programmed change of the pulley system, which takes
place virtually in a vertical direction on the vertical track of
the exercise apparatus, advantageously forces the exercising user
to incorporate, challenge and train all stabilizing muscle groups
throughout the whole body, while at the same time, training
multiple muscle groups for more than just a strength training
exercise.
[0057] Another benefit of the exercise apparatus is to constantly
force the central nervous system to adapt and change how it
stabilizes the body during the exercise.
[0058] The illustrated embodiments include a pneumatic resistance
unit that allows for constant or variable resistance and variable
degrees and extensions of motion by the user. Similarly, the
exercise apparatus of the present invention easily allows the user
to perform a wide variety of exercises that provide the exerciser
to work various muscles or muscle groups with the same piece of
equipment.
[0059] As in the '235 patent, the resistance unit (i.e., power
module) forms an exercise apparatus that can be mounted to a
support structure, such as a wall, a frame or a post. The
resistance unit is operatively associated with the user interface,
which the user grips, the movable carriage, and a pulley block and
tackle arrangement (pulley block) that helps provides a range of
movement to the user interface. A frame supports all components and
a cover is provided to prevent inadvertent contact with the moving
components by the user.
[0060] The user interface takes the form of a handle, but it can
instead be a band (preferably of an adjustable size) that is sized
to fit around a portion of the user's body, e.g., a waistband or an
ankle band. The user interface additionally can be a bar, a foot
pedal, movable seat or other movable or lifting equipment. The user
interface thus can be any article or mechanism that a user acts
against or interacts with and that is attached, either directly or
indirectly, to the cable.
[0061] As in the '235 patent, the user interface preferably moves
between two positions during an exercise and is engaged with a
carriage that can be programmed to move from one extreme position
to another extreme position. The handle normally resides in a
retracted position with the cable end to which the handle is
attached being fully retracted up to the unit. A user can move the
handle from the retracted position to an extended position in which
the cable end is pulled to its farthest position from the
surrounding housing. The exercise movement can involve movement
between any two positions between (and possibly including) the
retracted and extended positions in order to accommodate different
exercises and different size weight lifters.
[0062] The present invention incorporates many of the features of
the '235 patent. One significant modification that has been made is
the provision of the programmable, movable carriage that includes
one or more pulleys for engaging a cable that is connected to the
user interface. Yet another modification is the use of a slider
mechanism that is engaged with the piston of the pneumatic device
and the pulley block to provide resistance to the cable and user
interface.
[0063] As used herein, "cable," means collectively, steel or fiber
rope, cord, or the like. For example, the user cable can be a
formed of a synthetic material, such as a polymer. One suitable
material for the user cable is a polyester/nylon blend rope;
however, a coated steel cable can also be used. For example, the
user cable can comprises 1/8 inch wire cable with a plastic
sheathing, and most of the pulleys of the unit that support the
cable can have a diameter of about five inches. Although any
suitable cable and pulley size can be employed, it is preferable
that the associated pulleys have a diameter about 40 times the
diameter of the coated-wire cable. Smaller diameter pulleys,
however, can be used with other types of cables, e.g., 3.5-inch
diameter pulleys used with polyester/nylon blend rope.
[0064] The exercise device 100 is shown schematically in FIG. 1,
while FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the arrangement of the components in
a frame. The first end 105 of the user cable 125 begins at a user
interface 110, which typically is a handle. The cable then passes
through one or more pulleys 120 that are mounted on a vertically
movable carriage 130. The handle 110 preferably is releasably
connected to the end of the user cable in order to exchange
different types of user interface. The arrangement of the carriage
130 and pulleys 120 automatically align the user cable when the
handle 110 is pulled from substantially any direction outwardly
from the unit. Thereafter the user cable 125 continues into the
device and through one or more fixed pulleys located 135 on an
upper portion 140 of the frame. From there, the user cable then is
wound around the pulley block arrangement 150 by passing between
upper fixed pulleys 145 and lower movable pulleys 155, each of
which is present in a pulley block 147, 157.
[0065] The cable adjacent the user interface passes through the
pulleys of the vertically movable carriage before being connected
to other pulleys in the device. The pulleys on the movable carriage
can be considered to be in a fixed position when no force is
applied, such as just before beginning and exercise routine. In the
'235 patent, these pulleys are mounted on a carriage that is fixed
at a particular vertical position. In contrast, in the present
invention, the carriage is arranged to be movable between various
vertical positions and can be programmed to provide the desired
movement distance and time during a selected exercise routine.
[0066] The movable carriage 130 is mounted on an elongated member
115 and is driven upwardly and downwardly along that member by a
second elongated member 160 which is preferably a cylindrical rod
that includes a spiral track. The carriage 130 includes rollers or
other means such as a cam that allows the carriage 130 to engage
the track of the rod 160 for vertical movement. Elongated member
115, typically a pole or smooth rod, is attached to the frame and
prevents the carriage from lateral movement due to the forces
imparted on it by the user handle. The carriage 130 can include
ball bearings or other appropriate means to facilitate sliding
motion along pole 115.
[0067] The rod 160 is rotated about its axis either clockwise or
counterclockwise by a motor 165 to move the carriage upwardly or
downwardly between the selected vertical positions after the
exercise routine is initiated. The carriage can move as much as 6
feet or almost the entire height of the device frame although in
some cases it will preferably move between about 2 and 4 feet and
typically about 3 feet to provide the desired exercise challenge to
the user.
[0068] From the carriage 130, the cable then passes through one or
more fixed pulleys 135 located at the top of the device frame.
Thereafter, the cable 125 passes through a pulley block arrangement
150 that is capable of providing resistive forces. The pulley block
arrangement includes an upper pulley block 147 that is fixed to the
device frame and a lower pulley block 157 that is free to move
back-and-forth vertically. The lower pulley block 157 is capable of
movement up or down over a distance of 6 inches to 3 feet although
a preferred distance is approximately 12 inches. The user can
select the amount of force to be provided by the pulley block
arrangement which in turn will control the amount of movement of
the lower pulleys.
[0069] Each pulley block of the pulley block arrangement 150
includes at least two pulleys, but each block can include fewer or
more pulleys. The upper pulley block 147 is attached to upper cross
member or bracket of the device frame. The user cable 125 extends
upward inside the housing from one of the bottom pulleys 155 and
wraps around one of the upper pulleys 145. The user cable 125 then
extends down and wraps around another one of the lower pulleys 155,
and then up and down again wrapping around another upper pulley
145. Accordingly, as the user pulls the user cable 125 from the
unit (i.e., pulls the cable towards the user), the pulley block
arrangement 150 shortens in the process as the lower pulley block
155 is moved upward toward the upper pulley block 145.
[0070] After the cable 125 leaves the pulley block arrangement 150
it runs through the back of the machine to one or more fixed
pulleys 170 near the bottom 180 of the device frame. After passing
through those pulleys 170, the cable terminates at its second end
at a connection to the vertically moveable carriage.
[0071] The lower pulley block 157 constitutes an output member of
the pulley block arrangement 150. In other words, the load to be
"lifted" is connected to lower pulley block 157. One end of a main
cable 175 is attached to the lower pulley block 157 while the other
end is fixed to the slider mechanism 185. The main cable 175
cooperates with the pneumatic device 200 so that as the user pulls
the handle 110, the user cable 125 winds through the pulley blocks
lifting the lower pulley block 157 and correspondingly pulling on
the main cable 175. Force from the pneumatic device 200 is
communicated through the main cable 175 to the lower pulley block
157 and further to the user cable 125.
[0072] As shown, the pulley block arrangement 150 includes four
pulleys and four lengths of line between the pulleys. As such, the
resultant force at the handle is one-fourth of the force supplied
by the pneumatic device, and the stroke length of handle is about
four times the stroke length of the pulley block output (i.e., the
distance of between upper and lower pulley blocks when the handle
is in the retracted position). The relative movement of the lower
pulleys is about one foot, which is approximately the same as the
movement of the slider mechanism. Of course, any pulley assembly
can be used to achieve any desired force reduction or stroke
elongation and these distances can be changed accordingly.
[0073] The pneumatic device 200 includes a pneumatic actuator that
is a linear actuator that includes a cylinder 205 and a piston rod
210. The cylinder includes a cylinder body and a piston that slides
within the cylinder body. The piston divides the cylinder body into
two variably volume chambers. At least one of the chambers only
selectively communicates with the atmosphere so as to provide the
desired resistance. The other chamber can be open to the
atmosphere; however, in some applications, both chambers can be
pressurized (e.g., be of equal pressure), can selectively
communicate with the atmosphere and/or can communicate with each
other. One of the chambers preferably communicates with the
atmosphere (e.g., the air within the housing) so as not to resist
movement of the piston.
[0074] The piston rod 210 extends through one of the variable
volume chambers. The piston rod moves linearly along a stroke axis
as the piston slides within the bore of the cylinder 205. The
stroke length of the piston rod is sufficient to provide the
desired stroke for the pulley block arrangement 150.
[0075] The frame includes a guidepost 190 that supports the slider
mechanism 185 that is configured to slide over the guidepost 190.
The slider mechanism has a corresponding tubular shape and is sized
to slip over the guidepost. In this manner, the slider mechanism
can be moved vertically over the guidepost.
[0076] The slider mechanism 185 is designed to achieve sliding
vertical movement up or down over a distance of about 12 inches
along the rod 190. The slider mechanism 185 is fixedly attached to
the end 215 of the piston 210 from the pneumatic cylinder 205 such
that the cylinder provides a resistive force against the upward
movement of the slider mechanism. The user can select the desired
resistive force when initially programming the exercise machine to
carry out a desired routine.
[0077] The slider mechanism 185 is configured to slide upwardly and
downwardly along the guidepost 190. In a preferred embodiment, the
guidepost is oriented vertically with the slider mechanism
including means to facilitate reciprocal sliding motion along the
guidepost which is securely fixed to the frame of the housing.
[0078] The slider mechanism 185 is connected to the piston end 215
of the pneumatic cylinder through a secure linkage 195. The
pneumatic cylinder 205 provides the selected resistive force to
hinder the movement of the slider mechanism. This force, in turn,
is imparted to the lower, freely movable pulleys of the lower
pulley block 157.
[0079] Generally, the movement of the slider mechanism is over a
distance of about 10 to 20 inches and is preferably around 12
inches between the lowest and highest vertical positions. A cap
closes the opposite end of the cylinder body (i.e., opposite of the
end through which the piston rod extends). The cap includes a lug.
A pivot pin preferably secures the lug to the cylinder-mounting bar
such that the pneumatic actuator can pivot within the housing about
the pivot pin. The pneumatic actuator in the illustrated embodiment
hangs from the bar within the housing so as to pivot within a plane
that is generally parallel to the front side of the housing;
however, in some applications, the cylinder body can be rigidly
fixed within the housing. The actuator in this position thus has an
upper chamber and a lower chamber. The lower chamber is open to the
atmosphere (preferably through a filter) and the upper chamber is
pressurized.
[0080] At least several components of the pneumatic cylinder are
preferably formed of a polymer (e.g., plastic) in order to lighten
the weight of the resistance unit and to decrease production costs.
Such components can include the cylinder body, the piston and one
or more of the end caps of the cylinder.
[0081] The upper chamber of the cylinder preferably communicates
with at least one accumulator. The accumulator is preferably
rigidly mounted within the housing at a location next to the
cylinder. The accumulator is mounted on one side of the cylinder
and the pulley block arrangement is disposed on the other side of
the cylinder within the housing. An air equalization line connects
the accumulator with the cylinder so as to expand effectively the
variable volume of the upper chamber. In this manner, the effective
air volume of the cylinder is increased, and air pressure thus will
not increase as dramatically when the piston is moved.
[0082] The accumulator and the upper chamber also selectively
communicate with a source of pressurized air and with the
atmosphere. In the illustrated example, an air compressor, which
can be remotely disposed relative to the exercise apparatus,
communicates with the upper chamber through an inlet valve. A
button that actuates the inlet valve preferably is accessible from
the front side of the housing and is marked with appropriate
indicia (e.g., "+"). Pushing the button adds air pressure to the
charged side of the cylinder, e.g., the upper chamber in the
illustrated embodiment. An outlet valve communicates with the
charged side of the cylinder to selectively expel air to the
atmosphere in order to decrease air pressure on the charged side of
the cylinder. A button that actuates the outlet valve also is
preferably accessible from the front side of housing and is marked
with appropriate indicia (e.g., "-"). A user thus can adjust, i.e.,
increase or decrease, the air pressure within the resistance
assembly by operating the appropriate valves.
[0083] The cable transfers a resistant force from the pneumatic
device to oppose movement of the handle by the user. As noted
above, the separate cable includes a ball swaged onto the first
end. The ball fits through a keyway slot formed in the lower pulley
block and nests in a receptacle. The receptacle/ball connection
secures the first end of the cable to the lower pulley block, yet
allows the cable to pivot relative to the pulley block.
[0084] The pneumatic actuator 200 is arranged such that its stroke
axis lies generally parallel to the first section of main cable at
least initially when the handle is in its retracted position. The
resistance unit can be readily used in a variety of applications,
as it is also lightweight and involves relative few components, yet
provides a full range of movement. It this provides versatility in
the types of exercises that can be performed, and variability in
the amount of resistance provided.
[0085] As the piston 210 moves within the cylinder 205, the
resistance force will increase somewhat, although not as dramatic
as it would without the accumulator 225. For some exercises, it is
preferred that the resistance force be maintained at a generally
constant level throughout the exercise stroke (e.g., the cable
tension remains generally constant). As discussed below, the
illustrated embodiment comprises a mechanism for controlling the
resistance force over the stroke of the piston rod; however, the
resistance unit need not include such a mechanism in all
applications.
[0086] Additionally, as the cable engages and is threaded through
the pulleys on the vertically movable carriage, the movement of the
carriage provides a varying axis point that continuously moves
through a range of motion during a preselected time interval so
that the reference point of tension changes during the exercise
routine, thus causing the user to continuously adjust their balance
and control when performing the exercise. This challenges and
requires a response by different muscles or muscle groups to
enhance the workout. The movement of the carriage along with the
movement of the slider mechanism provides consistent resistance
through the entire exercise routine.
[0087] The cable 125 leaving the lower pulley block 157 is
operatively associated with the fixed pulleys 170 that are located
on the lower portion of the frame of the device. The cable
continues back to the carriage 130 where the second end of the
cable is attached to the carriage 130.
[0088] The present invention provides a number of unexpected
advantages over prior art devices. Instead of the axis point being
fixed in a single position, the axis point is continuously moving
throughout the exercise program between higher and lower vertical
positions. The user will program into the machine the range of
distance traveled between the two vertical points (e.g., the
highest and lowest points for the pulley cable) to determine the
positions where the cable will come out of the device, along with
the speed it will take to move the cable trolley between those two
points. Also, the user sets the desired resistance of the cable
that is provided by the pneumatic device.
[0089] By providing a movable axis point, a more difficult exercise
routine is encountered that helps the user burn more calories
and/or build muscle mass faster. The greatest benefit of this
arrangement and reciprocal upward and downward movement of the user
interface and first end of the cable, however, is that it
constantly forces the central nervous system to adapt and change
how it stabilizes the body during the exercise. This change in axis
point forces the user to incorporate all stabilizing muscle groups
in the body while challenging multiple, sometimes changing muscle
groups for more than just a strength training exercise.
Additionally, the exercise routine becomes one or a combination of
a neuromuscular challenge, a stabilizing challenge, a balance
challenge, a power challenge, a stepped challenge and a range of
motion challenge.
[0090] The exercise device of the invention also includes a display
panel that provides options to the user to determine and preselect
at least the following variables for a particular exercise routine:
[0091] the amount of resistance to be used, typically in pounds of
pressure; [0092] the range of motion of the carriage on the
elongated member, in feet, of the distance that the axis point can
travel during the duration of the exercise; and [0093] the rate of
speed for movement of the carriage through the range of motion
(i.e., the distance of travel), in seconds.
[0094] The variables are selected from selection buttons that are
provided on the device that become active when an exercise routine
is to be programmed, or on a display screen that provides a
selection menu for the user to enter data for the variables that
are to be applied during the exercise routine.
[0095] After the variables as selected, a START button is pressed
and the device continues to operate until no movement of the user
interface is determined over a time period of 5 to 10 seconds. For
example, resistance can be selected in 5 or 10 pound increments,
and the rate of speed can be from 0.5 to 5 seconds in half second
increments.
[0096] In sum, it is to be understood and realized that the optimum
dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention to include
variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and use are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to the skilled artisan, and all
equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and
described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by
the present invention.
[0097] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have same meaning as commonly understood by the person
of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As
used herein and in the appended claims, the singular form "a",
"and", and "the" include plural referents unless the context
clearly dictates otherwise. All technical and scientific terms used
herein have the same meaning. Thus the scope of the embodiments of
the present invention should be determined by the appended claims
and their legal equivalents rather than by the Figures.
[0098] Further since numerous modifications and changes will
readily be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, it
is not desired to limit the invention to the exact constructions as
specifically demonstrated in this disclosure. Accordingly all
suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to falling
within the scope of the invention. Thus it should be understood
that various features and aspects of the disclosed of the disclosed
embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in
order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention.
* * * * *