U.S. patent application number 16/228010 was filed with the patent office on 2020-06-18 for systems and methods for providing varying resistance throughout an excercise movement.
The applicant listed for this patent is Villency Design Group. Invention is credited to Matthew Brand, Troy Aumua Polamalu.
Application Number | 20200188719 16/228010 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 71072249 |
Filed Date | 2020-06-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200188719 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brand; Matthew ; et
al. |
June 18, 2020 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING VARYING RESISTANCE THROUGHOUT AN
EXCERCISE MOVEMENT
Abstract
A system for providing resistance in an exercise machine. The
system includes a motor, at least one drive screw attached to the
motor. A carriage is coupled to the drive screw. The carriage moves
in a first direction when the drive screw is turned in a first
direction and a second direction when the drive screw is turned in
a second direction. At least one sensor is attached to the
carriage, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect
external force on the carriage. Information from the sensor
indicates external force on the carriage. The information is used
to determine a movement of the carriage in response to the external
force. The motor is instructed to turn the drive screw to apply the
movement.
Inventors: |
Brand; Matthew; (Brooklyn,
NY) ; Polamalu; Troy Aumua; (Rancho Santa Fe,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Villency Design Group |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
71072249 |
Appl. No.: |
16/228010 |
Filed: |
December 20, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62780794 |
Dec 17, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2208/0233 20130101;
A63B 2220/24 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B 2220/51
20130101; A63B 21/00076 20130101; A63B 24/0062 20130101; A63B
21/0058 20130101; A63B 23/1209 20130101; A63B 2024/0093 20130101;
A63B 2023/0411 20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00; A63B 24/00 20060101 A63B024/00; A63B 21/005 20060101
A63B021/005; A63B 23/12 20060101 A63B023/12 |
Claims
1. A system for providing variable resistance in an exercise
machine, comprising: a motor; at least one drive screw attached to
the motor, wherein the drive screw has an axis of rotation and is
configured such that the motor can turn the drive screw in a first
direction and a second direction around the axis of rotation; a
carriage, coupled to the drive screw, wherein the carriage moves
axially in a first direction relative to the drive screw when the
drive screw is turned in a first direction and a second direction
relative to the drive screw when the drive screw is turned in a
second direction; at least one sensor attached to the carriage,
wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect external
force on the carriage; and a processor and a memory coupled with
the processor, the memory comprising executable instructions that
when executed by the processor cause the processor to effectuate
operations comprising: receiving information from the sensor
indicative of the external force on the carriage; and utilizing the
information to determine a movement of the carriage in response to
the external force; and instructing the motor to turn the drive
screw to apply the movement.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the carriage comprises: an outer
structure; and an inner structure moveably coupled to the outer
structure; wherein the inner structure includes a threaded opening
through which the drive screw is rotatably coupled to the
carriage.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer structure is connected
to the inner structure by at least one connector that allows the
outer structure to move relative to the inner structure in a
direction along the axis of rotation.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the sensor is a slide
potentiometer that is attached to the inner structure and the outer
structure; wherein the slide potentiometer measures displacement
between the inner structure and the outer structure along the axis
of rotation.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the carriage includes an
interface that allows the system to be attached to an actuator of
an exercise machine, wherein the actuator is employed by a user to
perform a resistance exercise.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the actuator is a lever arm of a
resistance machine.
7. The system of claim 5, wherein the actuator is part of a pulley
system of a resistance machine.
8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a user interface
coupled to the processor that allows a user of an exercise machine
to identify resistance that the user would like the controller to
apply over a range of an exercise movement.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein utilizing the information
comprises determining a rotation of the motor such that it moves
the carriage in a manner corresponding to the resistance that the
user would like the controller to apply over the range of the
exercise movement.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the motor moves the carriage
such that the resistance varies over the range of the exercise
movement.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the operations comprise
instructing the motor to turn the drive screw in the first
direction during a negative phase of an exercise movement and to
turn the drive screw in a second direction during a positive phase
of an exercise movement.
12. The method of claim 1, the sensor includes an angle
potentiometer.
13. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a housing comprising a
sidewall defining a space and including a first end and a second
end; a motor disposed within the housing at the first end; at least
one drive screw disposed within the housing, wherein the drive
screw is rotatably attached at a first end to the motor and at a
second end to the housing; a carriage attached to the drive screw,
wherein rotation of the drive screw in a first direction causes the
carriage to move toward the first end of the housing and rotation
of the drive screw in a second direction cause the carriage to move
toward the second end of the housing; a mechanical actuator
attached to the carriage, wherein the mechanical actuator is
configured to allow a user to perform an exercise movement; and a
controller configured to detect movement of the carriage through
the mechanical actuator and to respond to the movement by
instructing the motor to rotate the drive screw to move the
carriage in response to the movement.
14. The exercise apparatus of claim 13, wherein the controller
instructs the motor to turn the drive screw in the second direction
such that the carriage moves in the second direction if it detects
movement of the carriage in the second direction.
15. The exercise apparatus of claim 14, wherein the controller
instructs the motor to turn the drive screw in the second direction
at a varying torque.
16. A method for applying force in an exercise apparatus including
a motor, a drive screw connected to the motor, a carriage connected
to the drive screw, and a sensor that detects force applied to the
carriage, the method comprising: receiving through a user interface
an operational mode for the exercise apparatus; detecting a
direction and a magnitude of a first force has been applied to the
carriage; using the magnitude and direction to determine a
responsive force to apply to the carriage, wherein the responsive
force is corresponds to the operational mode of the exercise
apparatus; instructing the motor to the turn the drive screw to
apply the responsive force to the carriage.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the operational mode is to
allow movement of the carriage in the detected direction but at
rate that corresponds to a desired resistance.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein instructing comprises
instructing the motor to turn the drive screw such that the
carriage moves in the detected direction.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein instructing comprises
instructing the motor to turn the drive screw at a torque
corresponding to the resistance.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: detecting a
direction and magnitude of a second force applied to the carriage;
and instructing the motor to turn the drive screw such that the
carriage moves in the detected direction of the second force.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This patent application claims priority to and the benefit
of pending provisional patent application 62/780,794 filed Dec. 17,
2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to exercise equipment and
more particularly to systems and methods for providing resistance
in exercise equipment.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Resistance training is a core element to strength and
conditioning programs. Resistance training involves a person
performing a movement, while one or more muscles are under a load.
The load is generally referred to as resistance. There are a
multitude of different exercises that can be performed under
resistance. Regardless of the exercise, however, performing
resistance training requires some way of providing a load as a
person is performing a movement.
[0004] In basic resistance training, such as weight training, a
trainee uses a weight to provide a load. Two of the most common
weight lifting methods are the use of free weights or weight
machines. Free weights are generally barbells and dumbbells that a
person raises or lowers while performing a movement. Weight
machines, on the other hand, generally include one or more weight
stacks that a user raises or lowers through a supplementary
mechanism (e.g. cables, pulleys, levers, gears, cams, etc.). Some
weight machines use free weights to provide a load.
[0005] One problem associated with existing resistance equipment is
that the resistive loads do not vary over time. When a user
performs a movement with free weights, the weight remains the same
during the beginning, middle, and end of the movement. However, due
to biomechanics, a user may be able to handle more weight at
various stages of the movement. For instance, it is understood that
a user can usually handle more weight during the negative part of a
movement than in the positive part of a movement. Similarly, there
are exercises, such as the squat, in which a trainee can lift more
weight at the top of the movement than at the bottom of the
movement. However, there is no way to add weight to a barbell or
dumbbell during a movement, other than to stop the movement and
manually add plates. This is not efficient and not even practical
for certain types of movements.
SUMMARY
[0006] In one embodiment, a system is provided. System includes a
motor, at least one drive screw attached to the motor. The drive
screw has an axis of rotation and is configured such that the motor
can turn the drive screw in a first direction and a second
direction around the axis of rotation. A carriage is coupled to the
drive screw. The carriage moves axially in a first direction
relative to the drive screw when the drive screw is turned in a
first direction and a second direction relative to the drive screw
when the drive screw is turned in a second direction. At least one
sensor is attached to the carriage, wherein the at least one sensor
is configured to detect external force on the carriage. A processor
and a memory coupled with the processor are included in the system.
The memory comprises executable instructions that when executed by
the processor cause the processor to effectuate operations. The
operations include receiving information from the sensor indicative
of the external force on the carriage. Utilizing the information to
determine a movement of the carriage in response to the external
force and instructing the motor to turn the drive screw to apply
the movement.
[0007] In one embodiment, an exercise apparatus is provided. A
housing includes a sidewall defining a space and including a first
end and a second end. A motor is disposed within the housing at the
first end. At least one drive screw is disposed within the housing.
The drive screw is rotatably attached at a first end to the motor
and at a second end to the housing. A carriage is attached to the
drive screw. Rotation of the drive screw in a first direction
causes the carriage to move toward the first end of the housing and
rotation of the drive screw in a second direction cause the
carriage to move toward the second end of the housing. A mechanical
actuator is attached to the carriage. The mechanical actuator is
configured to allow a user to perform an exercise movement. A
controller is configured to detect movement of the carriage through
the mechanical actuator and to respond to the movement by
instructing the motor to rotate the drive screw to move the
carriage in response to the movement.
[0008] In one embodiment, a method for applying force in an
exercise apparatus is provided. The exercise apparatus includes a
motor, a drive screw connected to the motor, a carriage connected
to the drive screw, and a sensor that detects force applied to the
carriage. An operational mode is received through a user interface.
A direction and a magnitude of a first force that has been applied
to the carriage is detected. The magnitude and direction are used
to determine a responsive force to apply to the carriage, wherein
the responsive force is corresponds to the operational mode of the
exercise apparatus. The motor is instructed to turn the drive screw
to apply the responsive force to the carriage.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] In the following description, for purposes of explanation,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an
understanding of the variations in implementing the disclosed
technology. However, the instant disclosure may take many different
forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set
forth herein. Where practical, like numbers refer to like elements
throughout.
[0010] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are functional block representations of
exemplary systems for providing varying resistance in exercise
equipment.
[0011] FIGS. 2A-2C are perspective views of an exemplary resistance
machine that may utilize the system of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B.
[0012] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are a perspective view and side view
respectively of an exemplary resistance machine that may be used
with the system of FIG. 1A.
[0013] FIG. 3C and FIG. 3D are close up views of a carriage that
may be used in the resistance machine of FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B.
[0014] FIG. 4 is perspective view of an exemplary curl machine that
may that may utilize the system of FIG. 1A.
[0015] FIG. 5 is an exemplary block diagram depicting a computing
device that may be used as a controller in the system of FIG. 1A
and FIG. 1B.
[0016] FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting illustrative operation of
the system of FIG. 1A and FIG. 1 B.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] FIG. 1A is a representative system 10 for providing varying
resistance in exercise equipment. In one embodiment, system 10
comprises carriage 12, having an inner structure 14 and an outer
structure 16, a drive screw 18, a motor 20, a controller 22, and
one or more sensors 24.
[0018] In one example, inner structure 14 and outer structure 16
may each comprise a plate, frame, and/or another type of body that
are moveable with respect to each other. For instance, inner
structure 14 and outer structure 16 may be moveably attached to
each other such that they move laterally with respect to each along
the axis A of drive screw 18. More detailed exemplary embodiments
of inner structure 14 and outer structure 16 will be further
provided herein. However, for the purposes of FIG. 1, it is
sufficient to recognize that they move laterally with respect to
each other along the direction of axis A. It should also understood
that inner structure 14 and outer structure 16 may also move in
other directions with respect to each other without departing from
the scope of the disclosure.
[0019] Referring further to FIG. 1A, inner structure 14 includes
threaded openings 15 through, which it is rotatably engaged with
drive screw 18. Rotatable engagement with drive screw 18 causes
inner structure 14 to move along axis A when drive screw 18 is
rotated. In addition, it should be understood that when drive screw
18 is not rotated, inner structure 14 is substantially fixed in
place along axis A. The direction that inner structure 14 moves is
determined by the direction of rotation of drive screw 18.
[0020] Referring further to FIG. 1A, outer structure 16 in one
example is not connected to drive screw 18. In one example, outer
structure 16 is positioned in a different plane than drive screw
18. Therefore, outer structure 16 floats substantially above or
below the plane of drive screw 18 depending on the orientation from
which one views carriage. Because, drive screw 18 is not connected
to outer structure 16 and outer structure 16 is on a different
plane than drive screw 18, movement of drive screw 18 does not
directly impart movement to outer structure 16. Nevertheless, in
one example, at least one connecting device 28 connects inner
structure 14 to outer device. Such a connecting device 28 could
take many including, but not limited to, flexible and expandable
materials, such as springs, rubber, foam, and combinations thereof.
Such materials may be used in connection with other materials, such
as bolts, brackets, shims, rails, tracks, etc. to connect inner
structure 14 and outer structure 16 together in a moveable manner.
The connection of inner structure 14 and outer structure 16 allows
drive screw 18 to impart movement to outer structure 16 by rotating
and thereby by moving inner structure 14 to impart a force on outer
structure 16 through connecting devices 28. It should be noted that
a single connecting device 28 is shown in FIG. 1 for illustrative
purpose, but multiple connecting devices 28 may be used. For
instance, a connecting device may reside at each corner of inner
structure 14.
[0021] Referring further to FIG. 1A, because outer structure 16 is
not connected to drive screw 18 and is outside the plane of drive
screw 18, outer structure does not require drive screw 18 to move.
Accordingly, outer structure 16 may be actuated by another device
or actor. For instance, a mechanical actuator, such as a bar, a
pulley system, a handle, a cable, and or a lever, etc. may be
attached to outer structure 16 and allow a user to actuate movement
of outer structure 16 relative to inner structure 14, which is held
in place by drive screw 18. This allows a user to provide force,
such as in a weightlifting movement, indirectly against inner
structure 14.
[0022] Referring further to FIG. 1A, drive screw 18 extends along
and beyond a length L of carriage 12. In one embodiment, drive
screw has first end 26 and a second end 27. First end 26 is
mechanically coupled to motor 20. Second end 28 may be rotatably
seated within a housing of a machine (not shown). Motor 20 turns
drive screw 18 around axis A. The rotation of drive screw 18 around
axis A combined with the engagement of drive screw with the
threaded openings 15 causes inner structure 14 to move relative
along axis A. Accordingly, motor 20 may be used to provide force on
carriage along the direction of axis A by turning drive screw 18.
Such force may be varied by the direction of rotation of the drive
screw 18 and varied in magnitude by the torque at which motor 20
operates.
[0023] Referring further to FIG. 1A, controller 22 and sensors 24
in one example are utilized to measure the force exerted between
inner structure 14 and outer structure 16. In one example, a first
sensor 30 may be a slide potentiometer that measures the
displacement of inner structure 14 and outer structure 16. A second
sensor 32 may be an angle potentiometer. An angle potentiometer may
be used to measure an angle of an external structure relative to
outer structure 16. For instance, a lever may be attached to outer
structure 16 and an angle potentiometer may be used to measure the
angle of the lever relative to outer structure 16, as will be
discussed in more detail herein. It should be noted that two
sensors 24 are depicted for illustrative purposes, but more sensors
24 may be used and in different configurations. Sensors 24 measure
the direction and magnitude of force exerted by inner structure 14
on outer structure 16 and provide such measurements to controller
22, which operates motor 20 in accordance with one or more
algorithms and/or routines with which controller 22 is
programmed.
[0024] Referring further to FIG. 1A, in one example, controller 22
may be programmed to instruct motor 20 to drive screw 18 in a first
direction when a certain force is imparted by outer structure 16 on
inner structure. For instance, a user may perform a movement in
which the user provides force against outer structure 16, which
causes outer structure 16 to move relative to inner structure 14.
Sensors 24 will report such force to controller 20 and controller
20 may be programmed to either allow such force at a certain
magnitude (in the case of a positive portion of an exercise
movement) or to resist such movement and drive carriage 12 in the
opposite direction and at a certain magnitude (in the case of
negative movement). In another example, system 10 may be in an
operating mode in which controller 22 allow carriage 12 to move
freely. For example, such a mode may be to allow user to move
carriage 12 to a desired position. In such a mode, the slightest
force exerted on inner structure 14 by outer structure may cause
controller 22 to rotate motor 20 so that carriage move rapidly to
the desired position. In another example, a user may want to
perform an isometric exercise. An operating mode may be programmed
such that controller 22 does not move carriage 12 regardless of the
force exerted by outer structure 16 against inner structure 14.
[0025] Because motor 20 and controller 22 can selectively rotate
drive screw 18 to move carriage 12 along axis A. System 10 may be
utilized in exercise equipment to provide variable resistance while
users perform certain movements. The programming of controller 22
may be customized according to the objectives of the individual
users, manufacturers, and/or personal trainers. An exemplary device
that may be utilized as controller 22 is discussed in connection
with FIG. 5. It should be noted that controller 22 may include an
input/output device that would allow a user to program system 10
and/or select an operating mode for system 10. Therefore, while
exercising a user could select an exercise program, increase
resistance, and decrease resistance as needed. A user's selections
would be effectuated by controller 22 tailoring the direction of
movement and torque of motor 20 to provide the resistance desired
by the user. Furthermore, such resistance can be varied over time
by varying the torque and/or direction of the motor 20.
[0026] Referring to FIG. 1B, another embodiment of system 10' is
shown for exemplary purposes. FIG. 1B depicts an embodiment in
which there are two drive screws 18 rather than the one drive screw
18 shown in FIG. 1A. The use of two drive screws 18 may be
advantageous in certain exercise applications. For example, the
system 10 of FIG. 1A may be utilized in a resistance machine, such
as squat, press, or leg extension machine in which one drive screw
18 may be sufficient to accomplish its purpose.
[0027] In addition, the configurations shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B are
also illustrative. It is envisioned that systems 10, 10' may
include multiple carriages 12, motors 20, and controllers 22
without departing from the scope of the disclosure. An example of
using system 10 with multiple motors 20 and/or controllers would be
a multifunction exercise apparatus. Such an apparatus may be
configured to have a squat, a press, and leg extension at the same
time. One carriage 12, drive screw 18, motor 20, and controller 22
could govern all functions or multiple carriages 12, drive screws
18, motors 20, and controllers 22 could be used, such that each
function would have dedicated hardware. Another example, would be
to configure system 10 with multiple drive screws 18 which would
each be driven by a dedicated motor 20. As an example, such a
configuration may be worthwhile to provide higher levels of
resistance since two motors 20 could perform more work than one
motor 20. Such a use case may be effective for users who require a
greater degree of resistance, such as bodybuilders or power
lifters.
[0028] Referring to FIG. 2A, an embodiment of a resistance machine
200 incorporating system 10 is shown for illustrative purposes.
Resistance machine 200 in one example includes a housing 201
comprising a base 203, a tower 205, a support member 207, and a
lever 209. Base 203 provides a support on which a user can stand
when using the machine. Base 203 also functions to provide support
to machine 200 such that it remains upright. Tower 205 acts as the
housing within which system 10 resides. Support member 207 supports
machine 200 in an upright position and includes pivot point 208 at
which lever 209 is attached.
[0029] Referring further to FIG. 2A, housing 201 has a top end 211
and a bottom end 213. A top surface is positioned at top end 211. A
sidewall 215 runs between top end 211 and bottom end 213. Sidewall
215 in one example may be closed and comprise a continuous material
defining an opening 216 within which system 10 resides. In another
example, sidewall 215 may be open and comprise one or more members
or rails oriented to extend longitudinally between top end 211 and
bottom end 213.
[0030] Within opening 216, one or more rods 217 extend
longitudinally from top end 211 to bottom end 213 of housing 201.
If plural rods 217 are used, then they would extend longitudinally
in a parallel arrangement. Positioned on the rods 217 are one or
more carriages 12. Carriages 12 are positioned similar to the
carriage shown in FIG. 1A. Carriages 12 include inner structure 14
and outer structure 16 that slide with respect to each other along
rods 217. Inner structure 14 and outer structure are separated by
springs 221 (or alternative elastic and compressible elements).
Inner structure 14 includes a threaded opening 15 through which
drive screw 18 extends. Drive screw 18 in one example is rotatably
seated on top end 211 of housing and extends longitudinally toward
bottom end 213 of housing at which it is connected to motor 20.
Outer structure 16 includes one or more pegs 223 to which lever 209
may be attached. Referring also to FIGS. 2B and 2C, lever 209 is
adjustable between a top position (FIG. 2B) and bottom position
(FIG. 2C) in addition to middle position (FIG. 2A). Lever 209 is
adjusted by controller 22 instructing motor 20 to move lever 209 by
moving carriage 12 through rotation of drive screw 18. In this way,
the lever 209 may be moved to different positions corresponding to
different starting points of an exercise. For example, FIG. 2A may
be a starting point for a squat or press. FIG. 2B may be a starting
point for an overhead pull down. FIG. 2C may be a starting point
for a bent over row.
[0031] Referring further to FIG. 2A, lever 209 in one example
includes an interface 225 to which one or more attachments may be
connected to allow a user to perform various exercises. In the
example shown, a padded squat attachment 227 is shown, which would
allow users to orient themselves to perform a squat. Other
attachments include put not limited to handles, a bar, a rope, or a
band, which would allow a user to perform push and pull exercises
such as presses and pulldowns.
[0032] One or more sensors 24 may be present to measure the
displacement between inner carriage 14 and outer carriage 16 in the
manner described in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Sensors 24 may include a
linear potentiometer 30 to measure displacement between inner
carriage 14 and outer carriage 16. An angle potentiometer 32 may be
positioned at pivot point 208 to measure the angular position of
lever 209 relative to support member 207. The angular position of
lever 209 will affect the force applied to/from carriage from/to a
user. Accordingly, angular position of lever 209 is used by
controller in its calculation of how much force to apply through
rotation of drive screws 18.
[0033] Referring further to FIG. 2A, in one example, a user
operates machine 200 by actuating lever 209 to push or pull it
toward top end 211 or bottom end 213. As this movement occurs,
outer structure 16 is displaced relative to inner structure 14.
Sensors 24 detect the extent of the displacement and send signals
to controller 22. Controller 22 responds to displacement in
accordance with the operational mode that it is in and directs
motor 20 accordingly. Motor 20 may do nothing (in an isometric
mode) or it will turn drive screw in one direction to allow the
movement (in a positive direction of a movement) at a certain force
corresponding to a user's desired weight or turn drive in a second
direction (in a negative direction of movement). Controller 22 may
also specify the force or torque at which motor 20 should turn
drive screw 18. As drive screw 18 turns, inner structure 14 will
apply force against outer structure 16 and the carriage 12 will
move as described in FIGS. 1A-1B.
[0034] Referring to FIG. 3A-3B, another embodiment of an exercise
machine 300 utilizing system 10 is shown for illustrative purpose.
Machine 300 includes similar structure to the machine 200 shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C. There is housing 301 comprising a base 303, a tower
305, and a support member 307. The housing 301 has a top end 311
and a bottom end 313. A sidewall 315 runs between top end 311 and
bottom end 313. Sidewall 315 in one example may be closed and
comprise a continuous sheet of material defining an opening 316
within which system 10 resides. In another example, sidewall 315
may be open and comprise one or more members or rails oriented to
extend longitudinally between top surface top end 311 and bottom
end 313.
[0035] Within opening 316, one or more rods 317 extend
longitudinally from top surface 314 and base 303. If plural rods
317 are used, then they would extend longitudinally in a parallel
arrangement. Positioned on the rods 317 are one or more carriages
12. Carriages 12 include inner structure 14 and outer structure 16
that are slide with respect to each other along rods 319. Inner
structure 14 and outer structure 16 are separated by springs 321
(or alternative elastic and compressible elements). Inner structure
14 includes a threaded opening through which drive screw 18
extends. Drive screw 18 in one example is rotatably seated on one
side of surface 214 and extends longitudinally toward base 303
where it is connected to motor 20.
[0036] Unlike exercise machine 200, machine 300 does not include a
lever 209 to allow user to operate it. Machine 300 is configured as
leg extension and leg curl apparatus. Machine 300 includes a bench
320 that is configurable between an upright leg extension position
and a reclining leg curl position. An "L" shaped arm 322 is
rotatable attached to bench 320 at pivot point 324.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 3B, a cable 326 having a first end 328 and
a second end 330 is attached to arm 322 at the first end and
attached to outer structure 16 of carriage 12 at second end 330. A
pulley system directs cable from arm 322 longitudinally toward top
end 311 of housing 301.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 3C, in one example, cable 326 is attached
to outer structure through the use of a magnetic holding mechanism
332. Holding mechanism 332 comprises a magnet 334 having an opening
through which it is positioned on one of the rods 317. A metallic
member 336 is attached to the second end 330 of cable 326. The
metallic member has an opening through which it is positioned on
rod 317. When machine 300 is in use metallic member 336 may be
separate from magnet 334 such that it bears against outer carriage
16 (FIG. 3C). When a user operated machine 300 by moving arm 322 in
the positive movement of a leg curl or leg extension, the pulley
system causes cable 326 to move such that metallic member 336
exerts force toward the bottom end 313 of housing 301. This causes
metallic member to bear against outer structure 16. Outer structure
16 flexes against inner structure 14. A sensor 24 detects this
movement and notifies controller 22 which instructs motor to turn
drive screw 18 in accordance with a program to move carriage 12 to
apply a certain amount of resistance. In the negative portion of
the movement, metallic member 336 will exert diminishing force
against inner structure 14. Sensor 24 will detect the diminishing
force, notify controller 22, which will instruct motor to turn
drive screw 18 in the opposite direction and at a certain level of
resistance.
[0039] When a user no longer wants to user leg curl and leg
extension, metallic member 336 may be moved toward magnet 334,
which will hold it out of the way such that it such that it is no
longer in engaged with carriage 12 (FIG. 3D). Carriage 12 could
then be attached to another attachment to perform another exercise.
For instance, carriage 12 could be provided with a handle or bar
such that a user could perform a press or pulling exercise. In
another example, carriage 12 could be provided with a lever as in
FIGS. 2A-2C. Machine 300 could then operate as universal weight
lifting apparatus including a pulley system and a lever system.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 4, another embodiment of an exercise
machine 400 incorporating system 10 is shown for illustrative
purposes. Machine 400 is similar to machine 300. However, instead
of functioning as a leg extension/leg curl machine, machine 400 is
configured as a preacher curl machine. Machine 400 includes a
housing 401 having a first end 403 and a second end 405. A carriage
12, drive screw 18, motor 20, and controller 22 are positioned
within the space defined by the housing 401. An arm 407 is
rotatably connected to housing 401 at a pivot point 409. A platform
411 is provided for users to position their upper arms. A cable 413
includes a first end 415 connected to arm 407 and a second end 417
connected to outer structure 16 of carriage 12. A pulley 419
redirects cable from arm 407 such that it moves carriage 12
longitudinally along the line extending from first end 403 to
second 405. When a user performs a positive movement by rotating
his hands toward his body, the second end 417 of the cable 13 will
pull against outer portion 16 of carriage 14 and cause it to flex
toward the bottom end 405 of housing 401. This causes outer
structure 16 to flex against inner structure 14. A sensor 24
detects this movement and notifies controller 22 which instructs
motor to turn drive screw 18 in accordance with a program to move
carriage 12 to apply a certain amount of resistance. In the
negative portion of the movement, outer structure 16 will exert
diminishing force against inner structure 14. Sensor 24 will detect
the diminishing force, notify controller 22, which will instruct
motor to turn drive screw 18 in the opposite direction.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 5, it should be noted that controller 22
may be implemented on a computing device, an example of which is
illustrated in FIG. 5 as a functional block diagram. Computing
device 500 may comprise a processor 502 and a memory 504 coupled to
processor 502. Memory 504 may contain executable instructions that,
when executed by processor 502, cause processor 502 to effectuate
operations associated with translating parallel protocols between
end points in families as described above. As evident from the
description herein, network device 500 is not to be construed as
software per se.
[0042] In addition to processor 502 and memory 504, computing
device 500 may include an input/output system 506. Processor 502,
memory 504, and input/output system 506 may be coupled together to
allow communications between them. Each portion of computing device
500 may comprise circuitry for performing functions associated with
each respective portion. Thus, each portion may comprise hardware,
or a combination of hardware and software. Accordingly, each
portion of computing device 500 is not to be construed as software
per se. Input/output system 506 may be capable of receiving or
providing information from or to a communications device or other
network entities configured for telecommunications. For example
input/output system 506 may include a wireless communications
(e.g., 3G/4G/GPS) card. Input/output system 506 may be capable of
receiving or sending video information, audio information, control
information, image information, data, or any combination thereof.
Input/output system 506 may be capable of transferring information
with network device 500. In various configurations, input/output
system 706 may receive or provide information via any appropriate
means, such as, for example, optical means (e.g., infrared),
electromagnetic means (e.g., RF, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth.RTM.,
ZigBee.RTM.), acoustic means (e.g., speaker, microphone, ultrasonic
receiver, ultrasonic transmitter), electrical means, or a
combination thereof. Bluetooth, infrared, NFC, and Zigbee are
generally considered short range (e.g., few centimeters to 20
meters). WiFi is considered medium range (e.g., approximately 100
meters).
[0043] Input/output system 506 may contain a communication
connection 508 that allows computing device 500 to communicate with
other devices, network entities, or the like. Communication
connection 508 may comprise communication media. Communication
media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data
structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data
signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and
includes any information delivery media. By way of example, and not
limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a
wired network or direct-wired connection, or wireless media such as
acoustic, RF, infrared, or other wireless media. The term
computer-readable media as used herein includes both storage media
and communication media. Input/output system 506 also may include
an input device 510 such as keyboard, mouse, pen, voice input
device, or touch input device. Input/output system 506 may also
include an output device 512, such as a display, speakers, or a
printer. It should be understood that the various user interfaces
described in connection with FIGS. 1A-4 may be implemented as an
integrated part of input/output system 506. User interfaces may
also be implemented as standalone devices 500 that are interfaced
with computing device 500 through input/output system 506.
[0044] Processor 502 may be capable of performing functions
associated with to control system 10. For example, processor may
operate system 10 to provide varying resistance in the machines
described in FIGS. 2-4. Processor 502 may be programmed to provide
resistance in accordance with a program defined by a user. A user
may comprise a user of exercise equipment, a manufacturer of
exercise equipment, or a third party, such as a coach or
trainer.
[0045] Memory 504 of computing device 500 may comprise a storage
medium having a concrete, tangible, physical structure. As is
known, a signal does not have a concrete, tangible, physical
structure. Memory 504, as well as any computer-readable storage
medium described herein, is not to be construed as a signal. Memory
504, as well as any computer-readable storage medium described
herein, is not to be construed as a transient signal. Memory 504,
as well as any computer-readable storage medium described herein,
is not to be construed as a propagating signal. Memory 504, as well
as any computer-readable storage medium described herein, is to be
construed as an article of manufacture.
[0046] Memory 504 may store any information utilized in conjunction
with operating the system 10 and the exercise equipment shown in
FIGS. 2-5 as well as variations thereof. Depending upon the exact
configuration or type of processor 502, memory 504 may include a
volatile storage 514 (such as some types of RAM), a nonvolatile
storage 516 (such as ROM, flash memory), or a combination thereof.
Memory 504 may include additional storage (e.g., a removable
storage 518 or a non-removable storage 520) including, for example,
tape, flash memory, smart cards, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical
storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage
or other magnetic storage devices, USB-compatible memory, or any
other medium that can be used to store information and that can be
accessed by computing device 500. Memory 504 may comprise
executable instructions that, when executed by processor 502, cause
processor 502 to provide varying resistance in an exercise
machine.
[0047] While examples of systems and methods for providing varying
resistance have been described in connection with various machines,
computing devices/processors, the underlying concepts may be
applied to various equipment that have not been described, but
which are within the scope of this disclosure. The various
resistance programs described herein may be implemented in
controller 22 with hardware or software or, where appropriate, with
a combination of both. Thus, controller 22 may take the form of
program code (i.e., instructions) embodied in concrete, tangible,
storage media having a concrete, tangible, physical structure.
Examples of tangible storage media include floppy diskettes,
CD-ROMs, DVDs, hard drives, or any other tangible machine-readable
storage medium (computer-readable storage medium). Thus, a
computer-readable storage medium is not a signal. A
computer-readable storage medium is not a transient signal.
Further, a computer-readable storage medium is not a propagating
signal. A computer-readable storage medium as described herein is
an article of manufacture. When the program code is loaded into and
executed by a machine, such as a computer, the machine becomes a
device for providing varying resistance. In the case of program
code execution on programmable computers, the computing device will
generally include a processor, a storage medium readable by the
processor (including volatile or nonvolatile memory or storage
elements), at least one input device, and at least one output
device. The program(s) can be implemented in assembly or machine
language, if desired. The language can be a compiled or interpreted
language, and may be combined with hardware implementations.
[0048] The methods and devices associated controller 22 may be
practiced via communications embodied in the form of program code
that is transmitted over some transmission medium, such as over
electrical wiring or cabling, through fiber optics, or via any
other form of transmission, wherein, when the program code is
received and loaded into and executed by a machine, such as an
EPROM, a gate array, a programmable logic device (PLD), a client
computer, or the like, the machine becomes an device for
implementing telecommunications as described herein. When
implemented on a general-purpose processor, the program code
combines with the processor to provide a unique device that
operates to invoke the functionality of controller 22.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 6, an exemplary method 600 for operating
system 10 is now described for illustrative purposes. In step 601,
user input is received. User input in one example may be provided
through input output system 506 described in connection with FIG.
5. User input may include a number of characteristics of user. For
example, user input may include the height and weight of a user.
User input may include data indicative of a user's strength. For
instance, if a user is capable of performing a 500 pound squat or a
200 pound press. User input may include one or more exercise modes
that that the user would like to perform. For instance, a user may
specific that the user would like to operate an exercise machine at
a particular varying resistance. One example would be that the user
would like to perform a selected movement at a certain resistance
during the positive portion of the movement and a resistance equal
to 120% of that resistance during the negative portion of the
movement. Another example would be that the user would like to
perform the a movement at certain resistance at the beginning of a
positive portion of a movement and would like the resistance to
increase as the user is performing the positive portion of the
movement. In another example, the user may indicate that the user
would like resistance to vary during the range of a negative
portion of a movement. In another example, a user may specify that
the user intends to perform a number of repetitions and the user
would like resistance to vary from repetition to repetition. In one
example, user input may be provided at the time the user begins to
use system 100. In another example user input may be preprogrammed
into system 10 and stored. In such an example, the user may have a
profile that the user could access and select such preprogrammed
input for use in a workout.
[0050] Referring further to FIGS. 1A-1B and FIG. 6, in one example,
controller determines whether or not a user's input corresponds to
an operational mode. An operational mode may comprise a
predetermined mode of operation. The operational mode may be to
instruct motor 20 to turn drive screws such that carriage 12 would
move freely in whatever direction the user moves it. In another
example, the operation mode may be a predetermined resistance
program in which case the controller 22 would instruct motor to
operate in accordance with the resistance program. In another
example, the operational mode may be to provide straight
resistance. For example, the user could request 100 lbs. of
resistance in which case the controller 22 would instruct motor 20
to rotate in a direction and at an amount of torque equal to 100
lbs. of resistance. In another example, the operational mode may be
an isometric mode in which user would specify that it does not want
carriage to move. Accordingly, controller 22 would operate motor 20
so that it remained fixed.
[0051] Referring further FIG. 1 and FIG. 6, in step 605, if it is
determined that the user has selected an operation mode, then in
step 607, the system 10 runs the operational mode. If in step 605,
it is determined that the user has not selected an operational
mode, then in step 609, system 10 may suggest an operational mode
or enter into a default operational mode. System may provide output
to user through input output system 506 describe in connection with
FIG. 5.
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