U.S. patent application number 16/383721 was filed with the patent office on 2019-10-17 for ergonomic handle for an exercise machine.
The applicant listed for this patent is Lagree Technologies, Inc.. Invention is credited to Samuel D. Cox, Andy H. Gibbs, John C. Hamilton, Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree, Todd G. Remund, Max Wunderlich.
Application Number | 20190314672 16/383721 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68161116 |
Filed Date | 2019-10-17 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190314672 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony Louis ;
et al. |
October 17, 2019 |
Ergonomic Handle for an Exercise Machine
Abstract
An improved ergonomic handle for an exercise machine having a
cross-sectional shape designed to more closely conform with the
natural anatomical shape of a hand in a grasping position for
reducing compressive pressure on the hand during exercise,
improving grip, and accommodating a wide range of hand sizes. The
ergonomic handle for an exercise machine generally includes solid
bars and hollow tubular structures with a variety of substantially
polygonal cross-sections, including various substantially
triangular and trapezoidal cross-sections. Alternative embodiments
include underlying bars and handles of various cross-sectional
shapes with resilient cover materials having substantially
polygonal cross-sections. The improved ergonomic handles may
replace traditional round cross-section handles anywhere on an
exercise machine they may be located.
Inventors: |
Lagree; Sebastien Anthony
Louis; (Burbank, CA) ; Gibbs; Andy H.;
(Tucson, AZ) ; Hamilton; John C.; (Santa Clarita,
CA) ; Cox; Samuel D.; (Yuba City, CA) ;
Remund; Todd G.; (Yuba City, CA) ; Wunderlich;
Max; (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lagree Technologies, Inc. |
Burbank |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68161116 |
Appl. No.: |
16/383721 |
Filed: |
April 15, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62658240 |
Apr 16, 2018 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/023 20130101;
A63B 21/0724 20130101; A63B 71/0054 20130101; A63B 21/0726
20130101; A63B 2071/0063 20130101; A63B 21/4045 20151001; A63B
21/4035 20151001; A63B 21/4031 20151001; A63B 21/0428 20130101;
A63B 21/0442 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00; A63B 21/04 20060101 A63B021/04 |
Claims
1. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a first end and
a second end; a reciprocating platform movably positioned upon the
frame between the first end and the second end; a tension spring
connected between the reciprocating platform and the frame that
applies a bias force upon the reciprocating platform; and a first
platform handle connected to the reciprocating platform, wherein
the first platform handle comprises a triangular cross-section.
2. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first platform
handle comprises an upper surface, a first side surface, and a
second side surface.
3. The exercise machine of claim 2, wherein the upper surface and
the first side surface converge at a first vertex, wherein the
first side surface and the second side surface converge at a second
vertex, and wherein the second side surface and the upper surface
converge at a third vertex.
4. The exercise machine of claim 3, wherein the first vertex, the
second vertex, and the third vertex each comprise a rounded
surface.
5. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first platform
handle comprises a Reuleaux triangle cross-section.
6. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first platform
handle extends along a first side of the reciprocating
platform.
7. The exercise machine of claim 6, comprising a second platform
handle connected to the reciprocating platform, wherein the second
platform handle comprises a triangular cross-section.
8. The exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the second platform
handle extends along a second side of the reciprocating
platform.
9. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first platform
handle comprises a bar and a padding material surrounding the
bar.
10. The exercise machine of claim 9, wherein the padding material
comprises a triangular cross-section.
11. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein the bar comprises a
rectangular cross-section.
12. The exercise machine of claim 9, wherein the bar comprises
protrusions adapted to engage an inner surface of the padding
material.
13. The exercise machine of claim 12, wherein the bar comprises a
circular cross-section.
14. An exercise machine, comprising: a frame having a first end and
a second end; a reciprocating platform movably positioned upon the
frame between the first end and the second end; a tension spring
connected between the reciprocating platform and the frame that
applies a bias force upon the reciprocating platform; and a first
platform handle connected to the reciprocating platform, wherein
the first platform handle comprises a trapezoidal
cross-section.
15. The exercise machine of claim 14, wherein the first platform
handle comprises an upper surface, a first side surface, a second
side surface, and a bottom surface.
16. The exercise machine of claim 15, wherein the upper surface and
the first side surface of the first platform handle meet at a first
vertex, wherein the first side surface and the bottom surface of
the first platform handle meet at a second vertex, wherein the
bottom surface and the second side surface of the first platform
handle meet at a third vertex, and wherein the second side surface
and upper surface of the first platform handle meet at a fourth
vertex.
17. The exercise machine of claim 14, comprising a second platform
handle connected to the reciprocating platform, wherein the second
platform handle comprises a trapezoidal cross-section.
18. The exercise machine of claim 17, wherein the first platform
handle extends along a first side of the reciprocating platform and
wherein the second platform handle extends along a second side of
the reciprocating platform.
19. The exercise machine of claim 14, wherein the first platform
handle comprises a bar and a padding material surrounding the bar,
wherein the padding material comprises a trapezoidal
cross-section.
20. The exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the bar comprises
protrusions adapted to engage an inner surface of the padding
material.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] I hereby claim benefit under Title 35, United States Code,
Section 119(e) of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
65/658,240 filed Apr. 16, 2018. The 65/658,240 application is
currently pending. The 65/658,240 application is hereby
incorporated by reference into this application.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable to this application.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0003] Example embodiments in general relate to the field of
exercise machines and exercise equipment. More specifically,
example embodiments relate to an ergonomic handle for an exercise
machine having a cross-sectional shape designed to more closely
conform with the natural anatomical shape of a hand in a grasping
position for reducing compressive pressure on the hand during
exercise, improving grip, and accommodating a wide range of hand
sizes.
Related Art
[0004] 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.
[0005] Traditional exercise machines have long employed round
handles and other round gripping structures. Further, round bars
have long been the standard for gripping structures for other
exercise equipment such as dumbbells and barbells.
[0006] While round handles and bars serve their intended use as
hand-gripping structures adequately, they are intended for very
short duration exercise cycles, for instance, less than one minute.
However, they do not provide optimized geometry for supporting
exercisers to engage for longer periods with exercise equipment,
for instance, five minutes or more. Moreover, they do not provide
optimal gripping surfaces for a variety of hand sizes and for
exercises involving both pushing and pulling forces.
SUMMARY
[0007] An example embodiment is directed to an ergonomic handle for
an exercise machine that provides a novel improvement over
traditional round handles and bars typically used as the gripping
structures on exercise machines and other exercise equipment such
as free weights, e.g., dumbbells and barbells. Example embodiments
of the ergonomic handle for an exercise machine include an
anatomically optimized, substantially polygonal-shaped gripping
geometry that provides for improved hand engagement with exercise
machines and equipment, and increases hand-to-bar surface area
engagement when supporting substantially the weight of an
exerciser, thereby reducing compressive pressure on the palm of the
hand. The improved bar geometry also better accommodates a larger
range of male and female hand sizes when compared to the
traditional round bar geometry.
[0008] Example embodiments of ergonomic handles comprise solid bars
and hollow tubular structures with a variety of substantially
polygonal cross-sections, including various substantially
triangular and trapezoidal cross-sections. Alternative embodiments
include underlying bars and handles of various cross-sectional
shapes with resilient covers having substantially polygonal
cross-sections. The improved ergonomic handles preferably replace
traditional round cross-section handles anywhere on an exercise
machine they may be located.
[0009] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the
embodiments of the ergonomic handle for an exercise machine in
order that the detailed description thereof may be better
understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art
may be better appreciated. There are additional embodiments of the
ergonomic handle for an exercise machine that will be described
hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims
appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one
embodiment of the ergonomic handle for an exercise machine in
detail, it is to be understood that the ergonomic handle for an
exercise machine is not limited in its application to the details
of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth
in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The
ergonomic handle for an exercise machine is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.
Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology
employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should
not be regarded as limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Example embodiments will become more fully understood from
the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying
drawings, wherein like elements are represented by like reference
characters, which are given by way of illustration only and thus
are not limitative of the example embodiments herein.
[0011] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exercise machine with
improved ergonomic handles in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 1B is a top plan view of an exercise machine with
improved ergonomic handles in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an exercise machine with
improved ergonomic handles with several components illustrated in
outline to reveal internal components.
[0014] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a section of a prior art
handle bar having a substantially round cross-section.
[0015] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of a section of a prior
art handle bar having a substantially round cross-section with a
resilient cover material.
[0016] FIG. 4A is a side view of a representative human hand and
corresponding skeletal structure in a grasping position.
[0017] FIG. 4B is a side view of a representative human hand and
corresponding skeletal structure grasping an object with a
substantially triangular cross-section.
[0018] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a section of an improved
ergonomic handle bar having a substantially triangular
cross-section in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 5B is an end view of a section of an improved ergonomic
handle bar having a substantially triangular cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 5C is a side view of a section of an improved ergonomic
handle bar having a substantially triangular cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 5D is a top view of a section of an improved ergonomic
handle bar having a substantially triangular cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 5E is a bottom view of a section of an improved
ergonomic handle bar having a substantially triangular
cross-section in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 5F is a cross-sectional view of a section of an
improved solid ergonomic handle bar having a substantially
triangular cross-section in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 5G is a cross-sectional view of a section of an
improved hollow ergonomic handle bar having a substantially
triangular cross-section in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a section of an improved
ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a substantially
triangular cross-section embodiment with a preferably resilient
cover material in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 6B is an an end view of a section of an improved
ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a substantially
triangular cross-section with a preferably resilient cover material
in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 6C is a side view of a section of an improved ergonomic
handle comprising a hollow bar having a substantially triangular
cross-section with a preferably resilient cover material in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 6D is a top view of a section of an improved ergonomic
handle comprising a hollow bar having a substantially triangular
cross-section with a preferably resilient cover material in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 6E is a bottom view of a section of an improved
ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a substantially
triangular cross-section with a preferably resilient cover material
in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 6F is a cross-sectional view of a section of an
improved ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a
substantially triangular cross-section with a preferably resilient
cover material having a substantially triangular cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 6G is a cross-sectional view of a section of an
improved ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a
substantially rectangular cross-section with a preferably resilient
cover material having a substantially triangular cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 6H is a cross-sectional view of a section of an
improved ergonomic handle comprising a hollow bar having a
substantially round cross-section with circumferential protrusions
and a preferably resilient cover material having a substantially
triangular cross-section in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 7A is a side view of a representative hand grasping a
traditional handle comprising a substantially cylindrical tube
structure.
[0034] FIG. 7B is a side view of a representative hand grasping an
improved ergonomic handle comprising a substantially triangular
tube structure in accordance with an example embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 7C is a side view showing the geometry of the space
formed between the index finger tip and end of the thumb of the
skeletal structure of a representative hand in accordance with an
example embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 7D is a side view of a representative hand grasping an
improved ergonomic handle comprising a tube structure having a
substantially trapezoidal cross-section in accordance with an
example embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 7E is a side view of a representative relatively small
hand grasping an improved ergonomic handle comprising a tube
structure having another substantially trapezoidal cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 7F is a side view of a representative relatively large
hand grasping an improved ergonomic handle comprising a tube
structure having another substantially trapezoidal cross-section in
accordance with an example embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view taken along section line
S1-S1 in FIG. 1 of a reciprocating platform of an exercise machine
with improved ergonomic handles comprising a substantially
triangular cross section in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of a reciprocating
platform of an exercise machine with improved ergonomic handles
comprising one substantially trapezoidal cross-section as
illustrated in FIG. 7D in accordance with an example
embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of a reciprocating
platform of an exercise machine with improved ergonomic handles
comprising another substantially trapezoidal cross-section as
illustrated in FIGS. 7E and 7F in accordance with an example
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Various aspects of specific embodiments are disclosed in the
following description and related drawings. Alternate embodiments
may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of
the present disclosure. Additionally, well-known elements of
exemplary embodiments will not be described in detail or will be
omitted so as not to obscure relevant details. Further, to
facilitate an understanding of the description, a discussion of
several terms used herein follows.
[0043] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an
example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described
herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as
preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Likewise, the
term "embodiments" is not exhaustive and does not require that all
embodiments include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of
operation.
[0044] The terms "bar" and "handle" are used herein to mean a
structural member of an exercise machine or exercise equipment that
is typically gripped or grasped by a hand of an exerciser during
exercise. As used herein, a "bar" or "handle" may be constructed of
a solid material, a substantially tubular structure such as a
hollow pipe of a round, triangular, rectangular, or other polygonal
cross-sectional shape, or an assembly of a substantially solid or
hollow structure covered with a substantially resilient material.
Therefore, the terms "bar" and "handle" are not meant to be
limiting, and are used to describe any handle-like structure
intended to be gripped or grasped by a user during exercise.
[0045] Although more than one embodiment is illustrated and
described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill
in the art that a wide variety of alternate and/or equivalent
implementations may be substituted for the specific embodiments
shown and described without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. This application is intended to cover any adaptations
or variations of the embodiments discussed herein.
A. Overview.
[0046] An example embodiment may comprise a frame or base support
structure 100 having a first end 301 and a second end 302 and a
reciprocating platform 111 movably positioned upon the frame or
base support structure 100 between the first end 301 and the second
end 302. A tension spring 318 is connected between the
reciprocating platform 111 and the frame or base support structure
100 that applies a bias force upon the reciprocating platform 111.
A first platform handle 118, 120 is connected to the reciprocating
platform 111, wherein the first platform handle 118, 120 comprises
a triangular cross-section. The first platform handle 118, 120 may
comprise an upper surface 120a, a first side surface 120b, and a
second side surface 120c. The upper surface 120a and the first side
surface 120b converge at a first vertex 120d, the first side
surface 120b and the second side surface 120c converge at a second
vortex 120e, and the second side surface 120c and the upper surface
120a converge at a third vertex 120f. The first vertex 120d, the
second vertex 120e, and the third vertex 120f may each comprise a
rounded surface. The first platform handle 118, 120 may comprise a
Reuleaux triangle cross-section wherein the upper surface 120a and
side surfaces 120b, 120c are bowed outwardly.
[0047] The first platform handle 118, 120 may extend along a first
side 305 of the reciprocating platform 111. A second platform
handle 119, 120 may be connected to the reciprocating platform 111,
wherein the second platform handle 119, 120 comprises a triangular
cross-section. The second platform handle 119, 120 may extend along
a second side 306 of the reciprocating platform 111.
[0048] The first platform handle 118, 120 may comprise a bar 123
and a padding material 122 surrounding the bar 123. The padding
material 122 may comprise a triangular cross-section. The bar 123
may comprise a rectangular cross-section. The bar 123 may comprise
protrusions 123k adapted to engage an inner surface of the padding
material 122. The bar 123 may comprise a circular
cross-section.
[0049] Another exemplary embodiment may comprise a frame or base
support structure 100 having a first end 301 and a second end 302,
a reciprocating platform 111 movably positioned upon the frame or
base support structure 100 between the first end 301 and the second
end 302, and a tension spring 318 connected between the
reciprocating platform 111 and the frame or base support structure
100 that applies a bias force upon the reciprocating platform 111.
A first platform handle 118, 128, 130 is connected to the
reciprocating platform 111, wherein the first platform handle 118,
128, 130 comprises a trapezoidal cross-section.
[0050] The first platform handle 118, 128, 130 may comprise an
upper surface 128a, 130a, a first side surface 128b, 130b, a second
side surface 128c, 130c, and a bottom surface 128d, 130d. The upper
surface 128a, 130a and the first side surface 128b, 130b of the
first platform handle 118, 128, 130 meet at a first vertex 128e,
130e, the first side surface 128b, 130b and the bottom surface
128d, 130d of the first platform handle 118, 128, 130 meet at a
second vertex 128f, 130f, the bottom surface 128d, 130d and the
second side surface 128c, 130c of the first platform handle 118,
128, 130 meet at a third vertex 128g, 130g, and the second side
surface 128c, 130c and upper surface 120a, 130a of the first
platform handle 118, 128, 130 meet at a fourth vertex 128h,
130h.
[0051] A second platform handle 119, 128, 130 may be connected to
the reciprocating platform 111, wherein the second platform handle
119, 128, 130 comprises a trapezoidal shape. The first platform
handle 118, 128, 130 may extend along a first side 305 of the
reciprocating platform 111 and the second platform handle 119, 128,
130 may extend along a second side 306 of the reciprocating
platform 111. The first platform handle 119, 128, 130 may comprise
a bar 123 and padding material 122 around the bar 123, with the
padding material 122 comprising a trapezoidal cross-section. The
bar 123 may comprise protrusions 123k adapted to engage an inner
surface of the padding material 122.
[0052] An example improved ergonomic handle 120, 128, 130 for an
exercise machine 300 generally comprises a substantially
polygonal-shaped gripping geometry optimized to conform closely to
the natural anatomical shape of a partially closed hand when in
position to grip or grasp the handle. The ergonomic handle 120, 130
provides for improved hand engagement with exercise machines 300
and equipment, increases hand-to-bar surface area engagement when
supporting substantially the weight of an exerciser 210, and
thereby reduces the compressive pressure on the palm of the hand.
The improved handle or bar geometry also better accommodates a
larger range of male and female hand sizes when compared to a
traditional round handle or bar geometry.
[0053] Example embodiments of improved ergonomic handles 120, 130
comprise solid bars and hollow tubular structures with a variety of
substantially polygonal cross-sections, including various
substantially triangular and trapezoidal cross-sections.
Alternative embodiments include underlying bars and handles of
various cross-sectional shapes with resilient cover materials
having substantially polygonal cross-sections. The improved
ergonomic handles preferably replace traditional round
cross-section handles anywhere on an exercise machine they may be
located.
B. Exercise Machine with Improved Ergonomic Handles.
[0054] FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2 are perspective and top views
respectively of an exercise machine 300 with a plurality of
improved ergonomic handles 120, 130 adapted to be grasped by an
exerciser while performing exercises. The exercise machine 300 may
comprise a resistance training machine which is comprised of a
frame or base support structure 100 to which the proximal ends of a
front left actuator 101, front right actuator 102, back left
actuator 103b, and back right actuator 103a are movably
affixed.
[0055] The distal ends of the actuators 101, 102, 103a, 103b just
described are movably affixed to an upper machine structure
comprising a longitudinal center beam assembly 105 extending
substantially the length of the machine 300, a fixed front platform
106, a fixed back platform 107, and a reciprocating platform 111.
The reciprocating platform 111 may be movably affixed to the center
beam assembly by means of trolley wheels 116, 117 (see FIGS. 8A-8C)
that engage parallel guide rails 104 positioned on opposed sides of
the center beam assembly 105. The reciprocating platform 111
therefore is movable linearly parallel to and substantially the
length of the center beam assembly between the front platform 106
and back platform 107.
[0056] In practice, an exerciser 210 positions a part of the
exerciser's body on one or more of the platforms 106, 107 just
described, and pushes or pulls the reciprocating platform 111
linearly between the front and back stationary platforms 106, 107
against a variable resistance biasing force induced upon the
reciprocating platform 111. The variable resistance biasing force
may be provided by a plurality of tensioning springs 318. The
tensioning springs 318 may be connected between the frame or base
support structure 100 and a pulley cassette structure 308 by a
plurality of looped cables 315 and cable connectors 316. The pulley
cassette 308 is in turn connected to the reciprocating platform
111. The cables 315 may extend through the longitudinal center beam
assembly 105 and the ends of the cables 315 proximate to the pulley
cassette 308 may have tension knobs 303, 304 that are releasably
engageable in slots on the front and back ends of the pulley
cassette 308.
[0057] One or more tensioning springs 318 thus may be selectively
connected to the front and back of the pulley cassette 308 to
selectively provide resistance in forward and reverse directions of
motion of the reciprocating platform 111. A similarly improved
exercise machine 300 is shown and described in published U.S.
Patent Application No. US 2018/0021621 A1, which names the
inventors named herein and is assigned to the assignee of this
application. That application is incorporated herein by
reference.
[0058] As may be appreciated, while performing any of a vast number
of exercises upon such an exercise machine 300, exercisers 210 may
grasp one or more of a plurality of handles 108a, 108b, 109, 110,
112, 113 including a front right platform handle 108b, a front left
platform handle 108a, a back left platform handle 109, a back right
platform handle 110, a left reciprocating platform handle 112,
and/or a right reciprocating platform handle 113. Additional
handles 112a, 113a may also be provided in cut-outs in the
reciprocating platform 111.
[0059] Traditionally, tubes or bars with substantially round
cross-sections have been used as handles or gripping structures for
exercise equipment such as dumbbells and barbells, and the
cylindrical geometry of such gripping structures similarly has been
adapted for handles on stationary exercise machines. In contrast,
the exercise machine shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2 has the
traditional handle structures replaced with improved ergonomic
handles 120 having substantially triangular cross-sections. As will
be seen herein, improved ergonomic handles 120, 130 may also have a
variety of other substantially polygonal cross-sectional
shapes.
[0060] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a section of a bar 121
having a round cross-section. The drawing is presented as a
reference to show a section of a traditional prior art round handle
that would typically be found on stationary exercise machines and
exercise equipment such as free weights. However, as explained
below, the traditional cylindrical handle does not conform well to
the natural anatomy of a typical hand in a gripping or grasping
position. As described below, a typical hand in a gripping or
grasping position more closely defines a substantially polygonal
structure, opening, and space.
[0061] FIG. 3B is cross-sectional view of a traditional prior art
handle bar 121 or other structural member 125 having a round
cross-section with a resilient material 124 also having a
substantially round cross-section applied over the bar to provide a
gripping and/or cushioning surface. As used on exercise equipment,
the orientation of a cylindrical bar 121 with respect to its
central longitudinal axis is not important since any exerciser 210
or exercise equipment rotation about the central axis of the
cylindrical bar 121 will result in the same contact surface between
the bar 121 and the exerciser's 210 hand 209 209. Therefore, when
the resilient padding material 124 is applied over a round or
cylindrical structural member 125, rotation of the resilient
material about the central axis of the structural member is of no
consequence since the geometry and orientation of the round
exterior surface of the resilient material remains effectively
unchanged.
[0062] Accordingly, one advantage of using traditional prior art
cylindrical handles with substantially round cross-sections is that
the geometry does not require any specific orientation with respect
to the machine or equipment, thus allowing an exerciser to grab the
handle portion without regard to the orientation of the equipment.
However, a significant disadvantage of traditional prior art handle
bars 121 with round cross-sections is that a round handle geometry
is not the optimum geometry for the natural anatomy of the typical
human hand 209. Prolonged use of traditional round bars 121 or
handles during exercise can result in various injuries to the hand
caused by the concentration and increase of forces applied to the
hand over a small bar-to-hand contact surface area. Therefore, a
non-round geometry is preferable to a round geometry for an
exercise machine handle in order to increase the handle to hand
surface area and correspondingly to spread and reduce the
concentration of compressive force loading against an exerciser's
210 hands 209.
C. Improved Ergonomic Handles with Substantially Triangular
Cross-Sections.
[0063] FIG. 4A is a side view of a representative human hand 209
and corresponding skeletal structure in a typical gripping or
grasping position. As will be readily appreciated by those skilled
in the art, the geometry of the fingers and opposed thumb do not
form a substantially round structure, substantially round opening,
or substantially round enclosed space when the fingers and thumb
are partially closed, such as in the position assumed when gripping
or grasping a handle. More specifically, the carpal and metacarpal
bones of the hand 209 are substantially longitudinal bones that
articulate relative to the connected bones about a joint. When the
fingers and thumb of a typical hand 209 are partially closed and
positioned for grasping an object, the resulting structure of the
hand 209, the opening defined between the fingers and thumb, and
the open space enclosed by the partially closed hand 209 comprise
more of a polygonal shape substantially perpendicular to the axis
of the lower arm. Moreover, the vertices of the polygonal shape are
somewhat rounded.
[0064] In the drawing, a representative lower arm 200 of an
exerciser is shown comprising the radius and ulna bones 201 with
the distal ends terminating at the carpal bones 202 of the wrist.
The bones of the arm, wrist and hand 209 are shown as dashed lines
to differentiate the bony structure from the outer skin of the
lower arm and hand.
[0065] The bones comprising the "palm" of the hand 209 are known as
metacarpal bones 203 that are substantially straight bones
extending between the carpal bones 202 of the wrist at the proximal
ends, to the distal "knuckles", or more commonly known as the
metacarpal/phalanges joint, or "MCP" joints 204 that connect each
metacarpal to the corresponding substantially linear proximal
phalange bone 205. The remainder of each finger comprises the
proximal phalange connected to a medial phalange 206 by means of an
interphalangeal joint, or "IP joint" 208, the medial phalange
further connected to the distal phalange 207 by yet another IP
joint 208. Dotted line A shows the approximate longitudinal
direction of the proximal phalange bone 205 between joints, dotted
line B shows the approximate longitudinal direction of the
metacarpal bones 203 between joints, and dotted line C shows the
approximate longitudinal direction of the distal phalange 207, all
when the hand 209 is partially closed in a grasping position. As
illustrated, the substantially straight bones of the hands 209 do
not naturally define a structure, opening or space that is
substantially round in cross-section. Therefore, the typical hand
209 partially closed in a gripping position does not approximate or
conform particularly closely or well to a gripping structure having
a round geometry. Rather, the structure, opening and enclosed space
defined by a typical hand 209 partially closed in a gripping
position more closely resemble a substantially polygonal-shaped
cross-section.
[0066] FIG. 4B is a side view of a representative hand 209 and
corresponding skeletal structure grasping a substantially
triangular object. As just described, the bones of the hand are
comprised of substantially linear, not arcuate structures that are
unable to naturally conform to a cylinder. More specifically, the
metacarpal 203, proximal phalanges 205, medial phalanges 206, and
distal phalanges 207 at best form a substantially polygonal space
in the palm of the hand when the arm flexors are actuated to grip
an object. In the drawing, an end view of an improved ergonomic
handle bar 120 with a substantially triangular cross-section is
shown overlaid into the void or space created when the fingers and
thumb are flexed. The handle bar 120 comprises an upper surface
120a, a first side surface 120b and a second side surface 120c. The
upper surface 120a and first side surface 120b meet at a first
vertex 120d, the first and second side surfaces 120b, 120c meet at
a second vertex 120e, and the second side surface 120c and upper
surface 120a meet at a third vertex 120f.
[0067] As can be readily seen, the substantially
triangularly-shaped bar 120 more closely conforms to the natural
relatively straight geometry of the metacarpal 203 and phalanges
205, 206, 207 of the hand 209 when the hand 209 is flexed to grip
an object than the circumferential surface of a cylinder. Because
of the natural contours of the hand, the
substantially-triangularly-shaped bar 120 conforms even more
closely to the hand 209 when the straight sides or surfaces 120a,
120b, and 120c of the triangle are subtly curved and the vertices
120d, 120e, and 120f of the triangle are somewhat rounded rather
than pointed.
[0068] FIGS. 5A-5F are various views of an improved grasping
structure comprising the ergonomic handle or bar 120 having a
substantially triangular cross-section. As described previously,
the improved handle or bar 120 comprises an upper surface 120a, a
first side surface 120b and a second side surface 120c. The upper
surface 120a and first side surface 120b meet at a first vertex
120d, the first and second side surfaces 120b, 120c meet at a
second vertex 120e, and the second side surface 120c and upper
surface 120a meet at a third vertex 120f. Regardless of whether the
top leg or surface 120a of the substantially triangular
cross-section handle 120 is substantially planar or is subtly
curved, it provides a larger and flatter surface area on the handle
120 for an exerciser's 210 hand 209 to engage than the relatively
small surface area that is tangent to the top of a traditional
cylindrical bar 121 as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B. This constitutes a
valuable improvement in exercise machine and exercise equipment
handles for supporting the substantial weight of an exerciser 210
as well as additional pushing and pulling force applied by an
exerciser 210 while performing various exercises as described in
further detail below. Further, the lower legs or surfaces 120c and
120d of the substantially triangular cross-section handle 120
conform more closely than a traditional cylindrical bar 121 to the
natural anatomy of a typical hand 209 by more closely conforming to
the substantially straight phalange bones 205, 206, 207 when the
fingers and thumb are flexed to grasp a handle bar, thus providing
significant improvement in both grip and comfort. As mentioned
above, with the lower legs or surfaces 120a, 120b, 120c subtly
curved and the vertices 120d, 120e, 120f somewhat rounded, the
substantially triangular cross-section handle bar 120 conforms even
more closely to a typical partially-closed hand 209 in a gripping
position.
[0069] FIG. 5G is a cross-sectional view of a variation of the
improved ergonomic handle bar shown in FIGS. 5A-5F. As shown in
FIG. 5G, the bar 120 may have a hollow interior 120g as an
alternative to the solid structure shown in FIGS. 5A-5F.
[0070] It is noted that while the substantially triangular
cross-section of the bar 120 shown in FIGS. 5A-5G is similar to a
Reuleaux triangle, the cross-section is not intended to be limited
to that particular geometry. Rather, variations consistent with
achieving the functions and purposes described herein are intended
to be encompassed. For example, as illustrated the legs 120a, 120b,
120c of the triangle are preferably subtly rounded like a Reuleaux
triangle, but it is contemplated that the legs also may be
substantially straight or planar. Also as illustrated, the vertices
120d, 120e, 120f of the triangle are preferably rounded but it is
also contemplated that they may be more pointed. The triangle may
be equilateral but need not be. The triangle may or may not have
any interior right angles and interior angles may or may not be
equal. Still further, while the top leg 120a of the triangle is
illustrated as being essentially horizontal, depending on the
application the entire triangle may be rotated. Alternatively, just
the top surface 120a may be slanted from horizontal. Similar
variations are intended to be encompassed regarding the other legs
of the triangle.
[0071] FIGS. 6A-6F are various views of an alternative improved
grasping structure comprising an ergonomic hollow handle bar 123
having a substantially triangular cross-section with a preferably
resilient material 122 applied over the bar 123 to provide a
gripping and/or cushioning surface. As illustrated, the resilient
material 122 preferably has essentially the same substantially
triangular cross-sectional shape as the underlying bar 123 to
provide the same improved hand-conforming characteristics as
described above with respect to the improved handle bar 120. Thus,
the resilient material 122 preferably comprises an upper surface
122a, a first side surface 122b and a second side surface 122c. The
upper surface 122a and first side surface 122b meet at a first
vertex 122d, the first and second side surfaces 122b, 122c meet at
a second vertex 122e, and the second side surface 122c and top
surface 122a meet at a third vertex 122f.
[0072] Since orientation of the substantially flat surfaces of the
triangular handle bar 123 relative to the position of the exerciser
may be important, it may be desirable that the resilient triangular
padding 122 remain in a fixed position. Therefore, it is preferable
that the triangular padding 122 is applied over or affixed to the
underlying bar 123 or other non-cylindrical structural member in a
manner that prevents rotation of the resilient padding 122 relative
to the central axis of the structural member (bar) 123. In FIGS.
6A-6F, the structural member (bar) 123 has a substantially
triangular cross-section which relatively pointed vertices 123a,
123b, and 123c, which provide one means to prevent rotation of the
resilient padding 122 about the central axis of the structural
member (bar) 123. However, other polygonal geometries with
protrusions similar to the vertices 123a, 123b, 123c may be used
for the structural member (bar) 123 with the same effect. For
example, as shown in FIG. 6G, the underlying handle bar or
structural member 123 may have a substantially rectangular
cross-section with four relatively pointed corners 123g, 123h,
123i, and 123j.
[0073] It is also noted that while the underlying handle bar 123 is
illustrated as being hollow, it may be constructed as a solid
structure. Further, while the resilient material 122 is illustrated
as having a substantially triangular cross-section and orientation
similar to the cross-section and orientation of the bar 120 of
FIGS. 5A-5G, the cross-section and orientation of the resilient
material 122 may be varied in the same manner as described above
with respect to the bar 123 consistent with achieving the functions
and purposes described herein and such variations are intended to
be encompassed. For example, the resilient material 122 may assume
a variety of triangular and other substantially polygonal
cross-sectional shapes.
[0074] Still further, as shown in FIG. 6H, other means of
preventing rotation of the resilient padding 122 about the central
axis of the structural member (bar) 123 may be used with the same
effect even when using a cylindrical structural member 123. For
example, the resilient padding 122 may be affixed to the structural
member 123 by means of adhesives or mechanical fasteners, such as
protrusions 123k formed circumferentially about the outer surface
of the structural member 123 that engage the inner surface of the
resilient padding 122.
[0075] It should be appreciated that the resilient padding 122 may
also be utilized with the trapezoidal-shaped handle 128, 130 such
as the handles 128, 130 shown in FIGS. 7D, 7E, 7F, 8B, and 8C. In
such embodiments, the resilient padding 122 may similarly be
positioned or connected around an inner bar 123. The resilient
padding 122 in such an embodiment may comprise a trapezoidal
cross-section. The underlying bar 123 may comprise different shapes
and, in some embodiments, may comprise protrusions 123k adapted to
engage with an inner surface of the resilient padding 122.
[0076] FIGS. 7A and 7B further illustrate some of the beneficial
characteristics of the improved handle structures described herein.
FIG. 7A is a side view of a representative hand grasping a
traditional substantially cylindrical gripping structure 121. More
specifically, a typical hand 209 of an exerciser is shown gripping
a round bar 121 during an exercise. In the drawing, a portion of
the exerciser's 210 weight is supported by the exerciser's 210 hand
209 209, and correspondingly by the round handle 121. The downward
force of the exerciser's 210 weight is expressed as a load L that
is exerted against the upper surface 126 of the round handle
121.
[0077] More specifically, since the hand to handle 121 contact
surface area supporting the load is limited to the small area of
the handle 121 substantially tangential to the upper portion of the
arc of the handle 121, the load is expressed by the formula L/X
where "L" is the total downward force represented by the four
arrows, and "X" is the limited contact area on the handle 121 that
substantially normal to the load vector. It will be appreciated
that if the contact surface area between the palm of the
exerciser's 210 hand 209 and the handle 121 were increased, the
distribution of the exerciser's 210 weight against the handle 121
over the greater contact surface area would result in decreased
point loading on the exerciser's 210 hand 209, and therefore
increased comfort, thus allowing the exerciser 210 to remain
comfortably engaged with the handle 121 for a longer period of time
during longer exercises. It will also be appreciated that because
of the substantially round cross-section of the handle 121, there
is less surface area and fewer surfaces and/or protrusions
available for the exerciser's 210 hand 209 to engage while applying
pushing and pulling force to the handle 121 during exercises, thus
limiting the exerciser's 210 grip on the handle 121 during
exercises.
[0078] FIG. 7B is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of a
representative hand grasping an improved gripping structure having
a substantially triangular cross-section. More specifically, a
typical hand 209 of an exerciser is shown gripping the improved
ergonomic handle bar 120 having a substantially triangular
cross-section as illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5G. In the drawing, a
portion of the exerciser's 210 weight is supported by the
exerciser's 210 hand 209, and correspondingly by the handle 120.
The downward force of the exerciser's 210 weight is expressed as a
load L that is exerted against the top leg or surface 120a of the
triangular cross-section, and therefore the upper load bearing
surface 127 of the handle 120.
[0079] Compared to the small hand to handle contact surface area
just described in connection with FIG. 7A, the hand to handle
contact surface area supporting the load and the weight bearing
surface area of the portion of the handle 120 engaged with the
exerciser's 210 hand 209 are increased, the load now being
expressed by the formula L/(X+Y) where "L" is the total downward
force represented by the six arrows, "X" is the limited contact
area on the handle 120 that would otherwise be provided by a
traditional round handle bar 121, and "Y" is the increased contact
area provided by the expanded top surface 120a of the improved
triangular cross-section handle 120 as represented by the extended
length arrows.
[0080] It can be readily seen that the increased surface area of
the top surface 120a of the improved triangular cross-section bar
120 therefore reduces the point-loading and the corresponding
compressive forces applied against the exerciser's 210 hand 209,
thus allowing the exerciser 210 to engage with the improved handle
bar 120 for extended periods of time with significantly increased
comfort. This is because the improved geometry of the triangular
cross-section handle 120 more closely conforms with the natural
anatomy of the typical exerciser's 210 hand 209 when in a partially
closed position to grasp a handle 120 of an exercise machine 300 as
described herein while performing exercises.
[0081] In addition, it is apparent that the vertices 120d and 120f
between the top surface 120a and side surfaces 120b and 120c of the
triangle, and the bottom vertex 120e between the two side surfaces
120b and 120c of the triangle provide gripping points or
protrusions which improve an exerciser's 210 grip on the handle
120. This is especially beneficial during exercises involving the
exerciser 210 applying pushing and pulling forces on the handle
120. Preferably the gripping points or protrusions are located at
or near one or more of the joints 204, 208 of the fingers and thumb
of the hand 209, thereby providing even more comfort and more
improved grip for the exerciser 210.
[0082] It is noted that while the example embodiments described
above comprise handle bars 120 with substantially triangular
cross-sections, other configurations with other substantially
polygonal cross-sectional configurations may also be used
consistent with achieving the functions and purposes described
herein. Several example embodiments are described below.
D. Improved Ergonomic Handles with Other Substantially Polygonal
Cross-Sections.
[0083] FIG. 7C is a side view showing the geometry of the space
formed between the index finger tip and end of the thumb of a
representative skeletal structure of a typical hand 209 being
partially closed in a typical gripping motion. More specifically,
as previously described, the arm flexors (not shown) cause the
distal phalanges 207 and thumb 211 to approach one another during a
grasping motion. Since the distal phalanges 207, medial phalanges
206, proximal phalanges 205, and metacarpals 203 are substantially
straight members of the hand 209 articulable about the connecting
joints 208, the shape of the interior, grasping portion of the hand
209 forms a substantially polygonal geometry shown in the drawing
as a heavy line comprising a substantially trapezoidal-shaped
handle 128. As readily seen, the substantially trapezoidal shape of
the handle 128 conforms very positively and closely to the geometry
of the anterior portion of the hand in the gripping position.
[0084] FIG. 7D is an exemplary diagram showing a side view of a
representative hand 209 grasping an improved ergonomic handle 128
with a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. The handle
preferably comprises an upper surface 128a, a first side surface
128b, a second side surface 128d, and a bottom surface 128c. The
upper surface and first side surface meet at a first vertex 128e,
the first side surface and bottom surface meet at a second vertex
128f, the bottom surface and second side surface meet at a third
vertex 128g, and the second side surface and top surface meet at a
fourth vertex 128h. As previously described, in practice, the
compressive force that an exerciser applies to a handle is
transferred through the lower arm 200 to the hand, and ultimately
to the handle to which the hand is in compressive communication. In
the drawing, the plane of the top surface 128a of the substantially
trapezoidal cross-section handle 128 is preferably aligned with the
plane of the metacarpal bones 203, providing for the largest load
supporting surface 129 substantially in engagement with the hand
209 as a means to distribute the load force over the largest
possible area of the palm of the hand 209. In the drawing, the
outline of a traditional round handle 121 is shown as an overlaid
dotted line for comparison.
[0085] As can be readily seen, the area of the upper load bearing
surface of the improved substantially trapezoidal cross-section
handle 128, indicated by the plurality of arrows, is substantially
greater than the area of the load bearing surface of the
traditional round cross-section handle bar 121. Further, the
surfaces 128b, 128c, and 128d of the substantially trapezoidal
cross-section handle being in close communication with the
phalanges 205, 206, 207 provide for greater surface contact between
the hand 209 and handle 128 as may be preferred when the exerciser
210 is performing exercises that require pulling against the handle
128, opposing the pulling force in the direction as indicated by
the dotted arrows. Still further, the vertices 128e, 128f, 128g
between the adjacent legs or surfaces 128a, 128b, 128c, 128d of the
trapezoid, which preferably are located at or near one or more of
the joints 204, 208 of the fingers and thumb of the hand 209,
provide an exerciser 210 with additional gripping points or
protrusions thus improving the exerciser's 210 grip on the bar 128
during exercise as compared with the traditional round
cross-section bar 121.
[0086] FIGS. 7E and 7F are side views of two representative hands
209 of different sizes grasping an improved ergonomic handle 130
having an alternative substantially trapezoidal cross-section.
Similar to the improved handle of FIG. 7D, the handle 130
preferably comprises an upper surface 130a, a first side surface
130b, a bottom surface 130c, and a second side surface 130d. The
upper surface 130a and first side surface 130b meet at a first
vertex 130e, the first side surface 130b and bottom surface 130c
meet at a second vertex 130f, the bottom surface 130c and second
side surface 130b meet at a third vertex 130g, and the second side
surface 130b and top surface 130a meet at a fourth vertex 130h.
[0087] The plane of the top surface 130a of the substantially
trapezoidal cross-section handle 130 is preferably aligned with the
plane of the metacarpal bones 203, providing for the largest load
supporting surface 131 as a means to distribute the load force over
the largest possible area of the palm of the hand 209. The area of
the upper load bearing surface 131 of the substantially trapezoidal
cross-section handle 130, indicated by the plurality of arrows, is
substantially greater than the area of the load bearing surface of
the traditional round cross-section handle bar 121. Further, the
portions of the substantially trapezoidal cross-section handle 130
in close communication with the phalanges 205, 206, 207 provide for
greater surface contact between the hand 209 and handle 130 as may
be preferred when the exerciser 210 is performing exercises that
require pulling against the handle 130, opposing the pulling force
in the direction as indicated by the dotted arrows. Still further,
the vertices 130e, 130f, 130g, and 130h between the adjacent legs
or surfaces 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d of the trapezoid, which
preferably are located at or near one or more of the joints 204,
208 of the fingers of the hand 209 and thumb, provide an exerciser
210 with additional gripping points or protrusions thus improving
the exerciser's 209 grip on the bar 130 during exercise as compared
with a traditional round cross-section bar 121.
[0088] It is further noted that the substantially trapezoidal
cross-section is better able to accommodate different hand 209
sizes of various exercisers 210 than traditional handles 121 having
substantially round cross-sections. As seen in FIGS. 7E and 7F, the
arrangement of the plurality of surfaces 130a, 130b, 130c, 130d and
vertices 130e, 130f, 130g, 130h of the trapezoid provide a
plurality of gripping surfaces and gripping points or protrusions
that provide improved grip for both smaller hands 209, as seen in
FIG. 7E, and larger hands 209, as seen in FIG. 7F. Thus, for
smaller hands 209, at least three vertices 130e, 130f and 130h are
engaged with the hand 209 at various points, including at or near
one or more of the finger and thumb joints 204, 208. For larger
hands 209, all four vertices 130e, 130f, 130g, and 130h are engaged
with the hand 209, including at or near one or more of the finger
and thumb joints 204, 208. The improved handle 130 geometry can
thus simultaneously accommodate a wide variety of different
exercisers.
[0089] Similarly to the description above with respect to the
improved ergonomic handles or bars having substantially triangular
cross-sections, it is noted that while the cross-section of the
improved ergonomic bar 128 shown in FIG. 7D is similar to a right
trapezoid and the cross-section of the improved bar 130 shown in
FIGS. 7E and 7F are similar to an isosceles trapezoid, the
cross-sections of improved handles and bars encompassed by the
present disclosure are not intended to be limited to those
particular geometries. Rather, variations consistent with achieving
the functions and purposes described herein are intended to be
encompassed. For example, as illustrated the side surfaces of the
trapezoids are substantially planar, but it is contemplated that
they could be rounded to some extent if desired. Also as
illustrated, the vertices 130e, 130f, 130g, 130h of the trapezoids
are preferably rounded but it is also contemplated that they may be
more pointed. The trapezoidal cross-section may but need not be
similar to a right or isosceles trapezoid and may or may not have
any interior right angles or any interior angles that are equal to
each other. Still further, while the top surfaces 128a, 130a of the
trapezoids are illustrated as being substantially horizontal,
depending on the application the entire trapezoids may be rotated
or, alternatively, just the top surfaces 128a, 130a may be slanted
from horizontal. Similar variations are intended to be encompassed
regarding the other legs or surfaces 128b, 128c, 128d, 130b, 130c,
130d of the trapezoids. Further, the cross-sections of improved
bars or handles 120, 128, 130 need not be limited to only three or
four sides or surfaces, such as a triangle or trapezoid, but may
comprise other substantially polygonal cross-sections with a
greater number of surfaces. Similarly, more vertices may be present
to provide more gripping points or protrusions.
[0090] Thus, it should be clear that the improved substantially
triangular handle 120 cross-sectional geometry shown and described
with respect to FIG. 7B and other figures, and the improved
substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional geometries shown and
described with respect to FIGS. 7D, 7E, and 7F are not meant to be
limiting. Other variations of non-round, substantially polygonal
cross-sectional shapes may be applied to the handles of exercise
equipment as a means of more closely matching the handles to the
natural anatomical structure of exercisers' 210 hands 209 in the
gripping position, and thus provide significant and novel
improvements over traditional round cross-section handles 121.
E. Moveable Reciprocating Platform with Improved Ergonomic
Handles.
[0091] FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of a reciprocating
platform 111 of an exercise machine 300 as shown in FIG. 1 taken
along line S1-S1. In the drawing, the reciprocating platform 111
has been removed from the exercise machine 300 so as to highlight
the handle detail of the reciprocating platform 111. The platform
111 comprises a top platform 111 exercise surface affixed to one or
more support members 115, and at least one pair of opposed trolley
wheel assemblies 116, a plurality of trolley wheels 117 of the
assemblies movable along the parallel guide rails 104 of the center
beam assembly 105 as previously described with respect to FIG. 1.
In practice, an exerciser 210 may grasp a left reciprocating
platform handle 112 or a right reciprocating platform handle 113 as
shown in FIG. 1 by inserting the thumb of the grasping hand 209
though the open spaces 114 created between the platform 111 and
handles 118, 119.
[0092] As shown, the traditional round cross-section handles 121
have been replaced with improved ergonomic handles 118, 119
comprising a substantially triangular cross-section as described
herein. The drawing shows an improved left reciprocating platform
perimeter handle 118 and right reciprocating platform perimeter
handle 119 both having substantially triangular cross-sections. The
improved substantially triangular cross-section handles 118, 119
provide a handle geometry that conforms much more closely to the
natural anatomy of the typical exerciser's 210 hand 209, including
the metacarpal 203 and phalange 205, 206, and 207 bones, than
traditional round-cross section handles 121 and thus provides
improved comfort, reduced compressive force, and better grip
compared to traditional handles 121. The improved triangular
cross-section handles 118, 119 include an upper surface 119a with
an increased area that provides improved load bearing and
spreading, and side surfaces 119b and 119c that provide increased
contact and gripping surfaces for the exerciser's 210 hand 209. The
improved triangular cross-section handles 118, 119 also include a
plurality of gripping points or protrusions in the form of vertices
119d, 119e, and 119f that are preferably located at or near one or
more of the joints 204, 208 of the exerciser's 210 fingers and
thumb 211, and that provide improved grip for the exerciser 210
during exercises.
[0093] Similarly, FIGS. 8B and 8C are additional cross-sectional
views of a reciprocating platform 111 of an exercise machine 300 as
shown in FIG. 8A with the traditionally round cross-section handles
121 replaced with alternative embodiments of improved ergonomic
handles 128, 130 respectively having different substantially
trapezoidal cross-sections as described herein. As with the
improved handles 118, 119 having substantially triangular
cross-sections, the improved handles 128, 130 having substantially
trapezoidal cross-sections provide an improved handle geometry that
conforms much more closely to the natural anatomy of an exerciser's
210 hand 209, including the metacarpal 203 and phalange 205, 206,
and 207 bones, than traditional round cross-section handles 121 and
thus provide improved comfort, reduced compressive force, and
better grip compared to traditional handles 121.
[0094] Thus, the improved trapezoidal cross-section handle 128 of
FIG. 8B includes an upper surface 128a with an increased area that
provides improved load bearing and spreading, and first and second
side surfaces 128b and 128d, and a bottom surface 128c that
together provide increased contact and gripping surfaces for the
exerciser's 210 hand 209. The improved substantially trapezoidal
cross-section handles 128, 130 also include a plurality of gripping
points or protrusions in the form of vertices 128e, 128f, 128g, and
128h that are preferably located at or near one or more of the
joints 204, 208 of the exerciser's 210 fingers and thumb 211, and
that provide improved grip for the exerciser 210 during
exercises.
[0095] Similarly the improved trapezoidal cross-section handle 130
of FIG. 8C includes an upper surface 130a with an increased area
that provides improved load bearing and spreading, and first and
second side surfaces 130b and 130d, and a bottom surface 130c that
together provide increased contact and gripping surfaces for the
exerciser's 210 hand 209. The improved substantially trapezoidal
cross-section handles 130 also include a plurality of gripping
points or protrusions in the form of vertices 130e, 130f, 130g, and
130h that are preferably located at or near one or more of the
joints 204, 208 of the exerciser's 210 fingers and thumb 211, and
that provide improved grip for the exerciser 210 during
exercises.
[0096] It will be appreciated that the improved ergonomic handle
bar 120, 128, 130 configurations described herein can also be
employed with other types of exercise equipment having handles or
hand-gripping structures to provide improved gripping and comfort
characteristics. For example, a pushup is an exercise well known in
the fitness industry. During a traditional pushup, an exerciser 210
rests on extended arms and hands, and the balls of the feet,
suspending substantially the length of the body above the floor
surface. The primary weight of the torso creates a load that is
transferred through the arms to the supporting hands. A pushup is
then performed by bending the arms to lower the upper body towards
the floor, followed by extending the arms to return the upper body
to the starting position.
[0097] One popular variation of a pushup is to perform the exercise
by grasping the handles of a pair of dumbbells or barbells. The
advantage of this variation is that it allows the exerciser 210 to
begin the exercise with the palms of the hand elevated above the
floor, thereby increasing the exercise range of motion.
[0098] Typical dumbbells and barbells have a handle extending
between weighted ends. Also typically the handle has a
substantially round cross-section, which presents the drawbacks and
limitations described herein previously. Thus, when using barbells
or dumbbells to perform an exercise like a pushup, an exerciser's
210 hand 209 transfers the weight of the exerciser's upper body to
the dumbbell handle through a minimal dumbbell load supporting
surface of the substantially round handle. The high compressive
forces on the hand create discomfort and limit the duration of time
that the exercise can be performed, even though the muscles of the
arms and back may remain capable of and ready to continue the
pushup repetitions. As can be appreciated, and as previously
described, the load distribution of the hand across a substantially
increased surface area that would be provided by the top leg or
surface of an improved substantially triangular cross-section
handle or by the increased area of the load bearing surface of
another improved handle configuration having a substantially
polygonal cross-section would greatly diminish the discomfort and
allow the exerciser 210 to perform the beneficial exercise for more
repetitions over a longer period of time as is typically
desired.
[0099] Those skilled in the art will immediately recognize that the
substantially polygonal cross-section handles 128, 130 described
herein represent a novel improvement over traditional round
cross-section handles 121 typically provided on exercise machines
300 and other exercise equipment, including substantially
increasing the surface area for hand to handle contact for more
comfortable, more anatomically conforming, and more efficient load
transfer when compared to the traditional handles 121.
F. Operation of Preferred Embodiment.
[0100] In use, an exerciser 210 attaches one or more tension
springs 318 as desired to the front and/or back sides of the pulley
cassette 308 connected to the reciprocating platform 111 as desired
to apply a desired level of biasing force to the platform 111. The
selected tension springs 318 are connected to the pulley cassette
308 by inserting the tension knobs 303, 304 connected to the
selected tension springs 318 in the corresponding slots on the
front and/or back sides of the pulley cassette 308.
[0101] The exerciser 210 activates one or more of the actuators
101, 102, 103 to set the desired elevation and rotation of the
machine 300 as desired for the exercise to be performed. The
exerciser 210 mounts the machine 300 and positions a part or parts
of the exerciser's 210 body on one or more of the reciprocating
platform 111 and front and back stationary platforms 106, 107 as
appropriate for the exercise to be performed. The exerciser 210
grasps with the exerciser's 210 hands 209 one or more of the
improved ergonomic handles 120, 128, 130 having substantially
polygonal cross-section on the reciprocating platform 111 and/or
stationary platforms 106, 107 as appropriate for the exercise to be
performed.
[0102] The exerciser 210 pushes or pulls against the handles 120,
128, 130 to cause the reciprocating platform 111 to move linearly
between the front and back stationary platforms 106, 107 along the
center beam 105 against the selected resistance biasing force
induced on the reciprocating platform 111. When the exercise is
complete, the exerciser 210 releases the grip on the handles 120,
128, 130 and dismounts from the machine.
[0103] 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 ergonomic
handle for an exercise machine, suitable methods and materials are
described above. All publications, patent applications, patents,
and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference
in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and
regulations. The ergonomic handle for an exercise machine may be
embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit
or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that
the present embodiment be considered in all respects as
illustrative and not restrictive. Any headings utilized within the
description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting
effect.
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