U.S. patent application number 17/568882 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-07 for adjustable dumbbell system.
The applicant listed for this patent is iFIT, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gaylen Ercanbrack, Michael Olson.
Application Number | 20220212052 17/568882 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006110068 |
Filed Date | 2022-07-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220212052 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ercanbrack; Gaylen ; et
al. |
July 7, 2022 |
ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELL SYSTEM
Abstract
An adjustable dumbbell includes weight plates that are
selectively connectable to a handle. Unselected weight plates are
secured to a cradle. To secure the unselected weight plates to the
cradle, a latch in the cradle is inserted into an engagement
surface notch in the weight plate. The unselected weight plates are
individually actuated based on which weight plates are selected and
connected to the handle.
Inventors: |
Ercanbrack; Gaylen; (Logan,
UT) ; Olson; Michael; (Providence, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
iFIT, Inc. |
Logan |
UT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006110068 |
Appl. No.: |
17/568882 |
Filed: |
January 5, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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63134036 |
Jan 5, 2021 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0726 20130101;
A63B 21/0728 20130101; A63B 21/075 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/075 20060101
A63B021/075; A63B 21/072 20060101 A63B021/072 |
Claims
1. A system for securing an adjustable dumbbell, comprising: a
handle; a plurality of weight plates selectively connectable to the
handle; a cradle configured to support the handle and the plurality
of weight plates, the cradle including a latch to selectively
retain a weight plate of the plurality of weight plates in the
cradle; a weight selection input configured to receive a set
weight; and a weight controller configured to selectively attach a
combination of weight plates to the handle such that a dumbbell
weight matches the set weight.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight selection input
includes a voice recognition input.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight selection input
includes one or more buttons.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the weight selection input
includes a communication device configured to receive the set
weight from a remote computing device.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a display configured
to display exercise information.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the display is a touch-sensitive
display, and wherein the weight selection input includes one or
more buttons on the touch-sensitive display.
7. A system for securing an adjustable dumbbell, comprising: a
handle; a plurality of weight plates removably connected to the
handle, each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates
including a notch; and a cradle including a plurality of latches
configured to be selectively inserted into the notch located on
each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates; a weight
selection input; and a weight controller configured to activate one
or more of the plurality of latches based on a set weight from the
weight selection input.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the weight selection input
includes a voice recognition input.
9. The system of claim 7, wherein the weight selection input
includes one or more buttons.
10. The system of claim 7, wherein the weight selection input
includes a communication device configured to receive the set
weight from a remote computing device.
11. The system of claim 7, further comprising a display configured
to display exercise information.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein the display is a
touch-sensitive display, and wherein the weight selection input
includes one or more buttons on the touch-sensitive display.
13. The system of claim 7, wherein the latches are individually
actuated.
14. The system of claim 7, wherein the cradle includes a slot for
each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates.
15. A method for securing an adjustable dumbbell, comprising:
receiving a set weight from a weight selection input; based on the
set weight, selectively connecting one or more selected weight
plates of a plurality of weight plates to a handle to set the
adjustable dumbbell to the set weight; and securing an unselected
weight plate of the plurality of weight plates to a cradle based on
the selected weight plate connected to the handle.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the weight selection input is a
voice recognition input, and wherein receiving the set weight from
the weight selection input includes receiving a verbal command at
the voice recognition input.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein receiving the set weight
includes receiving the set weight from a remote computing
device.
18. The method of claim 15, further comprising: selecting the
selected weight plate; and identifying the unselected weight plate
as any weight plate of the plurality of weight plates that is not
the selected weight plate.
19. The method of claim 15, wherein securing the unselected weight
plate includes inserting a latch into a notch in the unselected
weight plate.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein securing the unselected weight
plate includes inserting a weight plate latch on the weight plate
into a cradle notch on the cradle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 63/134,036, filed on Jan. 5,
2021, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
Background and Relevant Art
[0002] Muscle training may involve a user moving weights, often
called dumbbells, in specific motions to tone body muscles.
Different muscle groups may be exercised with different amounts of
weight. Indeed, the same muscle group may be exercised with
different amounts of weights. Fixed dumbbells have a fixed weight.
A collection of fixed dumbbells may be expensive, and may require a
large amount of storage space. Adjustable dumbbells allow a user to
add or remove weight plates from a handle to customize the weight
of the dumbbell. This may save the user money, by requiring a
smaller amount of weights to be purchased, and may save the user
space by requiring a smaller storage space.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0003] In some embodiments, a system for securing an adjustable
dumbbell includes a handle. A plate adjustment mechanism is
configured to selectively connect a selected weight plate of a
plurality of weight plates to the handle. Each weight plate
includes a notch. A cradle is configured to receive the plurality
of weight plates, the cradle includes a latch. A retention
mechanism is configured to selectively engage the latch with the
notch of an unselected weight plate. The handle adjustment
mechanism is mechanically connected to the cradle adjustment
mechanism
[0004] In other embodiments, a system for securing an adjustable
dumbbell includes a handle. A plurality of weight plates are
removably connected to the handle. Each weight plate includes a
notch. A cradle includes a plurality of weight plate receptacles.
Each weight plate receptacle is configured to receive each weight
plate of the plurality of weight plates. A plurality of latches are
configured to be selectively inserted into the notch. The plurality
of latches are individually actuated.
[0005] In yet other embodiments, a method for securing an
adjustable dumbbell includes placing a dumbbell handle in a cradle.
The dumbbell handle is selectively connected to a selected weight
plate of a plurality of weight plates. An unselected weight plate
is secured to the cradle based on the selected weight plate.
[0006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts that are further described below in the detailed
description. This summary is not intended to identify key or
essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it
intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0007] Additional features and advantages of embodiments of the
disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and
in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by
the practice of such embodiments. The features and advantages of
such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the
instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the
appended claims. These and other features will become more fully
apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may
be learned by the practice of such embodiments as set forth
hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited
and other features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more
particular description will be rendered by reference to specific
implementations thereof which are illustrated in the appended
drawings. For better understanding, the like elements have been
designated by like reference numbers throughout the various
accompanying figures. While some of the drawings may be schematic
or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some of the
drawings may be drawn to scale. Understanding that the drawings
depict some example implementations, the implementations will be
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0009] FIG. 1-1 through 1-5 are side views of an adjustable
dumbbell system, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0010] FIG. 2 is a top down view of an adjustable dumbbell system,
according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 3 is a representation of a cradle, according to at
least one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 4 is a representation of a weight plate, according to
at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 5-1 is a representation of an adjustable dumbbell
system, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 5-2 is a perspective view of a retention mechanism,
according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a representation of a
plate adjustment mechanism, according to at least one embodiment of
the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a representation of a
retention mechanism, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure;
[0017] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of representation of
another retention mechanism, according to at least one embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a representation of yet
another retention mechanism, according to at least one embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a representation of a method for securing a
dumbbell, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 11-1 through FIG. 11-4 are representations of an
adjustable dumbbell assembly, according to at least one embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a representation of an adjustable dumbbell
system, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure; and
[0022] FIG. 13 is a representation of a method for using an
adjustable dumbbell system, according to at least one embodiment of
the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] Adjustable dumbbells allow a user to exercise using a
selected weight within a weight range, while reducing the need for
individual dumbbells of a series of weights within the same weight
range. Adjustable dumbbells include a handle or other support bar
which may then have one or more weight plates selectively connected
to the support bar. To increase the weight of the adjustable
dumbbell, the user simply connects or attaches additional weight
plates to the handle until the desired weight is reached. In some
embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a hand weight. An
example of an adjustable dumbbell is shown in U.S. Pat. No.
9,795,822, the entirety of which is herein incorporated by
reference. For example, the handle may be sized such that a spacing
between two sets of weight plates is wide enough for a single hand.
In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a long bar,
such as a bar used for squats, bench press, and so forth. The long
bar may have a width between sets of weight plates sufficient for
widely spaced hands (e.g., greater than shoulder length apart). In
some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a weight for a
weight machine. In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may
have a single set of weight plates, such as for a kettle ball.
[0024] In some embodiments, an adjustable dumbbell may include a
plate adjustment mechanism that connects selected weight plates to
the adjustable dumbbell until the desired weight is reached.
Regardless of how the selected weight plates are connected to the
handle, a user may not always have all the weight plates
simultaneously connected to the handle. Therefore, when the user
removes the handle from the cradle, one or more unselected weight
plates may remain behind in the cradle. These unselected weight
plates may become dislodged from the cradle. In at least one
embodiment, an unselected weight plate that is dislodged from the
cradle may become a safety hazard, and may be dropped on a user,
left on the floor to be tripped over, or present another safety
hazard. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, the unselected
weight plate that is dislodged from the cradle may become
misplaced. For example, the unselected weight plate may be stolen,
lost, put away in the wrong plate, or otherwise misplaced.
[0025] To prevent the unselected weight plates from becoming
dislodged from the cradle, the cradle may include a retention
mechanism. The retention mechanism may secure the unselected weight
plates to the cradle while allowing the selected weight plates to
be removed from the cradle while attached to the handle. In this
manner, the unselected weight plates may not become dislodged, and
therefore may not be a safety hazard or misplaced. Securing the
unselected weight plates to the cradle may further improve the
exercise experience for the user by removing the need for the user
to consciously keep track of the unselected weight plates.
[0026] FIG. 1-1 is a side-view representation of an adjustable
dumbbell system 100, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure. The adjustable dumbbell system 100 includes a
handle 102 and a plurality of weight plates 104. The weight plates
104 may be selectively secured to the handle 102. The weight plates
104 and the handle 102 are placed in a cradle 106. The weight
plates 104 include a notch 108. A latch 110 inserted into the notch
108 may selectively secure the weight plates 104 to the cradle 106.
In this manner, when the handle 102 is removed, the weight plates
that are secured to the cradle 106 may remain in the cradle 106,
and the weight plates connected to the handle 102 may become
removed from the handle 102 with the cradle.
[0027] FIG. 1-2 is a representation of the adjustable dumbbell
system 100 of FIG. 1-1 with the handle 102 removed from the cradle
106. In the position shown, a plurality of selected weight plates
104-1 are attached or connected to the handle 102. Thus, when the
handle 102 is removed from the cradle 106, the selected weight
plates 104-1 are removed from the cradle 106 with the handle 102.
Thus, by selecting the selected weight plates 104-1, the user may
customize the amount of weight attached to the handle 102.
[0028] The unselected weight plates 104-2 remain in the cradle 106
when the handle 102 and the selected weight plates 104-1 are
removed from the cradle 106. The unselected weight plates 104-2 are
secured to the cradle 106 with a latch 110 inserted into a notch
108. By securing the unselected weight plates 104-2 to the cradle
106, the unselected weight plates 104-2 may not become dislodged
from the cradle, and may therefore have a reduced chance of
becoming misplaced or a safety hazard.
[0029] As may be seen, only the unselected weight plates 104-2 are
secured to the cradle 106. Furthermore, the unselected weight
plates 104-2 are secured to the cradle 106 before the handle 102 is
removed with the selected weight plates 104-1. Thus, the unselected
weight plates 104-2 are individually and selectively secured to the
cradle 106, and the unselected weight plates 104-2 are individually
and selectively not secured to the cradle 106.
[0030] FIG. 1-3 and FIG. 1-4 are further side-views of the
adjustable dumbbell system 100 of FIG. 1-1. In the embodiment
shown, the outer-most weight plate 104-2 is an unselected weight
plate 104-2, and the handle 102 is placed in the cradle 106. The
latch 110 is inserted into the notch 108 of the unselected weight
plate 104-2. In FIG. 1-4, the handle 102 and the connected selected
weight plates 104-1 have been removed from the cradle 106. The
unselected weight plates 104-2 remain secured to the cradle
106.
[0031] FIG. 1-5 is a top-down view of the of the adjustable
dumbbell system 100 of FIG. 1-1. In the embodiment shown, the
cradle 106 includes a plurality of latches 110. Indeed, the cradle
106 includes a latch 110 for each weight plate (collectively 104).
In the embodiment shown, each weight plate 104 includes a latch 110
on either side of the weight plate 104. Including a latch 110 on
either side of the weight plate 104 may provide a stronger
connection between the weight plate 104 and the cradle 106.
[0032] The cradle 106 includes a weight selection input 112. To
operate the adjustable dumbbell system 100, the user simply inputs
the desired weight into the weight selection input, and a plate
adjustment mechanism (not shown) connects the selected weight
plates 104-1 to the handle 102 and a retention mechanism secures
the unselected weight plate 104-2 to the cradle 106.
[0033] The weight selection input 112 may be any type of input. In
some embodiments, the weight selection input 112 may be a manual
input. For example, the weight selection input 112 may include one
or more buttons. The buttons may be representative of one or more
total weights of the dumbbell when the weight plates 104 are
connected to the handle 102. For example, a weight selection button
may be 20 pounds, and the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may
connect the appropriate number of weight plates 104 to the handle
102 to generate a total dumbbell weight of 20 pounds. In some
embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may connect an
equal number of weights to either side of the handle 102, to ensure
that the dumbbell is balanced. In some embodiments, the weight
selection input 112 may include a plurality of weight selection
buttons, which may correspond to each available combination of
weight plates 104. In this manner, the user may simply select the
desired weight, and the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may
automatically connect the appropriate combination of weight plates
104 to reach the selected weight.
[0034] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 112 may
allow the user to select the combination of specific weight plates
104. For example, the weight selection input 112 may include a
plurality of buttons each associated with a single weight plate
104. When a button is depressed, the associated weight plates 104
may be connected to the handle 102. This may provide the user with
control over the selection and combination of individual weight
plates 104 connected to the handle 102.
[0035] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 112 may
include one or more physical buttons that depress into the cradle
or otherwise physically move when depressed. In some embodiments,
the weight selection input 112 may include one or more
touch-sensitive buttons. For example, the weight selection input
112 may include a touch-screen. In some embodiments, the
touch-screen may include other exercise information, such as the
current selected weight, the number of sets performed at the
selected weight, calories burned, the current exercise, and so
forth.
[0036] In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may
include a communication device. The communication device may be in
communication with an external computing device. The external
computing device may communicate exercise information to the
adjustable dumbbell system 100. For example, the external computing
device may communicate a set weight to the adjustable dumbbell
system 100. The adjustable dumbbell system 100 may then connect the
appropriate weight plates 104 to the handle 102 to reach the set
weight. In some embodiments, the external computing device may
communicate which weight plates 104 to connect to the handle 102 to
reach the set weight.
[0037] In some embodiments, the external computing device may
include an exercise program. The exercise program may include one
or more exercises, such as curls, presses, and so forth, to be
performed using the adjustable dumbbell system 100. The exercises
may include an associated exercise weight. When it is time to
perform a specific exercise, the external computing device may
provide the adjustable dumbbell system 100 with the exercise
weight. The adjustable dumbbell system 100 may then attach the
appropriate weight plates 104 to the handle 102 so that the
dumbbell is set to the exercise weight.
[0038] In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may
include one or more sensors to determine when the handle 102 is
connected to the cradle 106. The communication device may
communicate the presence of the handle 102 in the cradle 106 to the
external computing device. In some embodiments, the external
computing device may track whether the handle 102 is connected to
the cradle 106.
[0039] In some embodiments, the external computing device may
change the exercise weight based on input from the user. For
example, the user may set the exercise weight on the external
computing device and the external computing device may then
communicate that exercise weight to the adjustable dumbbell system
100, which may attach the appropriate weight plates 104 to the
handle 102. In some embodiments, the external computing device may
communicate the exercise weight to the adjustable dumbbell system
100 when the handle 102 is determined to be in the cradle 106. In
some embodiments, the external computing device may communicate the
exercise weight to the adjustable dumbbell system 100 when the
handle 102 is not connected to the cradle 106. The adjustable
dumbbell system 100 may then set the dumbbell to the exercise
weight when the handle 102 is attached to the cradle 106.
[0040] In some embodiments, an exercise program may include a
sequential list of exercises to be performed in order. In some
embodiments, the exercises may include different exercise weights.
When performing the exercise program, the adjustable dumbbell
system 100 may set the dumbbell to the first exercise weight by
connecting the weight plates 104 to the handle 102 to set the
dumbbell to the exercise weight. In some embodiments, when the
handle 102 is removed from the cradle, the adjustable dumbbell
system 100 and/or the external computing device may determine that
the first exercise is being performed. When the handle 102 is
returned to the cradle 106, the adjustable dumbbell system 100
and/or the external computing device may advance to the next
exercise by setting the adjustable dumbbell system 100 to the next
exercise weight.
[0041] In some embodiments, the external computing device may
communicate the entire exercise program to the adjustable dumbbell
system 100, and the adjustable dumbbell system 100 may execute the
exercise program. In some embodiments, the external computing
device may be in communication with the adjustable dumbbell system
100, and the external computing device may provide instructions to
the adjustable dumbbell system 100 for each exercise in the
exercise program.
[0042] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 112 may
include any other type of user input. For example, the weight
selection input 112 may include voice-activated controls. For
example, the weight selection input 112 may include a microphone
and voice recognition software. The voice recognition software may
be optimized to receive specific, weight-related commands. For
example, in some embodiments, a user may say "set the dumbbell to
20 pounds." The weight selection input 112 may receive the words
through the microphone and process the words using the voice
recognition software. The weight selection input 112 may then set
the dumbbell to the appropriate weight, in this example, 20 pounds.
In some embodiments, the input words may include any amount of
weight. In some embodiments, the input words may include "set the
dumbbell to the maximum weight," and the adjustable dumbbell system
100 may connect all of the weight plates 104 to the handle 102. In
some embodiments, the input words may include any words that the
voice recognition software may identify as a set weight.
[0043] As discussed above, each weight plate 104 may be secured to
the cradle 106 individually before the handle 102 is removed from
the cradle 106. Thus, each latch of the plurality of latches 110 is
individually actuated. In this manner, the unselected weight plates
104-2 may be secured to the cradle 106 even if the selected weight
plates 104-1 bump and jostle the unselected weight plates 104-2
while being removed.
[0044] FIG. 2 is a representation of an adjustable dumbbell system
200, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. In the embodiment shown, the cradle includes a
plurality of first latches 210-1 and a second latch 210-2. The
plurality of first latches 210-1 may individually actuate to secure
one or more of the weight plates 204 to the cradle 206. The second
latch 210-2 may actuate to secure all of the weight plates 204 to
the cradle 206. This may allow a user to input into the weight
selection input 212 the selected weight, and remove the handle 202
and the selected weights. When done using the adjustable dumbbell
system 200, the user may input a weight of 0, or indicate a locking
input, and the second latch 210-2 engages with each weight plate
204 to secure all of the weight plates 204 to the cradle. This may
increase the stability and/or security of the adjustable dumbbell
system 200 while not in use or during transport. Furthermore, this
may help to prevent some or all of the adjustable dumbbell system
200 from becoming a safety hazard.
[0045] FIG. 3 is a representation of an embodiment of a cradle 306,
according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The
cradle 306 includes a plurality of weight plate receptacles 314.
Each weight plate receptacle is configured to receive a weight
plate (e.g., weight plate 104 of FIG. 1-1). The weight plate
receptacle shown is an indentation in the cradle 306, which aligns
and helps to orient the weight plates with respect to the cradle
306. A latch (collectively 310) is shown in or at the edge of each
weight plate receptacle 314. The latch 310 is configured to secure
a weight plate to the cradle 306 in the weight plate receptacle
314.
[0046] In the embodiment shown, a first plurality of latches 310-1
is located on a first side of the weight plate receptacles 314, and
a second plurality of latches 310-2 is located on a second side of
the weight plate receptacles 314. Including latches 310 on either
side of the weight plate receptacles 314 may allow for a simplified
retention mechanism, or allow for the retention mechanisms to have
increased control over which weight plates are selected and
unselected.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a cut-away view of a weight plate 404 and a
retention mechanism 416, according to at least one embodiment of
the present disclosure. The weight plate 404 includes a handle
space 418 in a top surface 420 into which a handle (e.g., the
handle 102 of FIG. 1-1) may be inserted. The weight plate 404
further includes a notch 408 in a lateral face (collectively 422).
In the embodiment shown, the weight plate 404 includes a notch 408
in both a first lateral face 422-1 and a second lateral face
422-2.
[0048] The notch 408 includes a notch engagement angle 424, which
is the angle measured clockwise between a notch engagement surface
426 and the second lateral face 422. In some embodiments, the notch
engagement angle 424 may be in a range having an upper value, a
lower value, or upper and lower values including any of 45.degree.,
60.degree., 75.degree., 80.degree., 85.degree., 90.degree.,
95.degree., 100.degree., 105.degree., 120.degree., 135.degree., or
any value therebetween. For example, the notch engagement angle 424
may be greater than 45.degree.. In another example, the notch
engagement angle 424 may be less than 135.degree.. In yet other
examples, the notch engagement angle 424 may be any value in a
range between 45.degree. and 135.degree.. A notch engagement angle
424 that is close to 90.degree. may provide the greatest force to
secure the weight plate to the cradle. In some embodiments, a notch
engagement angle 424 of less than 135.degree. may be critical to
provide sufficient force to secure the weight plate to the
cradle.
[0049] A latch 410 includes a protrusion 428 that extends into the
notch 408. In the embodiment shown, the protrusion 428 has a
triangular cross-sectional shape. The protrusion 428 has a latch
engagement surface 430 that engages with the notch engagement
surface 426. In the embodiment shown, the notch engagement surface
430 has the same shape as the latch engagement surface. In this
manner, the bearing surface between the latch engagement surface
430 and the notch engagement surface 426 is maximized. Because
protrusion 428 is inserted into the notch 408, the protrusion 428
contacts the notch at the notch engagement surface 426 when a
removal force is applied to the weight plate 404. The interference
between the notch 408 and the protrusion 428 secures the weight
plate 404 to the cradle.
[0050] The protrusion includes a latch engagement angle 432, which
is the angle measured clockwise between the latch engagement
surface 430 and a line 433 parallel to the first lateral face
422-1. In some embodiments, the latch engagement angle 432 may be
in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower
values including any of 45.degree., 60.degree., 75.degree.,
80.degree., 85.degree., 90.degree., 95.degree., 100.degree.,
105.degree., 120.degree., 135.degree., or any value therebetween.
For example, the latch engagement angle 432 may be greater than
45.degree.. In another example, the latch engagement angle 432 may
be less than 135.degree.. In yet other examples, the latch
engagement angle 432 may be any value in a range between 45.degree.
and 135.degree.. A latch engagement angle 432 that is close to
90.degree. may provide the greatest force to secure the weight
plate to the cradle. In some embodiments, a latch engagement angle
432 of between 75.degree. and 105.degree. may be critical to
provide sufficient force to secure the weight plate to the
cradle.
[0051] In some embodiments, the latch engagement angle 432 and the
notch engagement angle 424 are supplementary. In other words, the
latch engagement angle 432 and the notch engagement angle 424 add
up to 180.degree.. Supplementary latch engagement angles 432 and
notch engagement angles 424 may increase the bearing surface
between the latch engagement surface and the notch engagement
surface. This may increase the force with which the weight plate is
secured to the cradle. In some embodiments, the latch engagement
angle 432 and the notch engagement angle 424 are not supplementary,
and may add up to an angle that is greater than or less than
180.degree..
[0052] The latch 410 includes a latch arm 434 that extends from the
protrusion 428. In the embodiment shown, the latch arm 434 rotates
about a pivot 436. The retention mechanism 416 includes a latch cam
shaft 438 including a lobe 439. As the latch cam shaft 438 rotates,
the lobe 439 pushes on a lower portion 440 of the latch arm 434.
When the lobe 439 pushes on the lower portion 440, the latch arm
434 rotates about the pivot 436, and an upper portion 442 of the
latch arm 434 rotates (counterclockwise in the view shown) toward
the notch 408. This may insert the protrusion 428 into the notch
408. As the latch cam shaft 438 rotates further, the lob rotates
away from the lower portion 440, and a resilient member (not shown)
may urge the arm latch 434 to rotate (clockwise in the view shown)
about the pivot 436. This may cause the upper portion 442 and the
protrusion 428 move away from the notch 408, thereby un-securing
the weight plate 404 from the cradle, and allowing the weight plate
404 to be removed.
[0053] FIG. 5-1 is a top-down representation of an adjustable
dumbbell system 500, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure. In the embodiment shown, the adjustable
dumbbell system 500 includes a first dumbbell 501-1 and a second
dumbbell 501-2. To change the weight of the first dumbbell 501-1
and the second dumbbell 501-2, the adjustable dumbbell system 500
includes a plate adjustment mechanism 544. The plate adjustment
mechanism 544 includes a plate cam shaft gear 545 connected to a
plate cam shaft (not shown). A plate primary gear 546 rotates the
plate cam shaft gear, which rotates the plate cam shaft to
selectively select weight plates (collectively 504) to connect to
the handle (collectively 502-1). The plate primary gear 546 is
connected to a primary shaft 547.
[0054] A retention mechanism 516 includes a latch cam gear 548
connected to a latch cam shaft (not shown). A latch primary gear
549 rotates the latch cam gear 548, which rotates the latch cam
shaft to selectively insert a latch 510 into a notch (not shown) of
a weight plate 504. The latch primary gear 549 is driven by the
primary shaft 547. In this manner, the plate adjustment mechanism
544 and the retention mechanism 516 are mechanically connected. In
other words, the plate adjustment mechanism 544 and the retention
mechanism 516 are connected through a geared connection. For
example, as the primary shaft 547 rotates, the plate cam shaft may
be oriented to select one or more weight plates 504 to connect to
the handle 502. The latch cam shaft may be oriented to
simultaneously latch the unselected weight plates 504 to the cradle
506. A user may select the desired weight of the first dumbbell
501-1 and the second dumbbell 501-2 with the weight selection input
512, and the primary shaft 547 may be rotated until the desired
weight is attached to the handles 502.
[0055] FIG. 5-2 is a perspective view of the retention mechanism
516 of FIG. 5-1. A primary shaft 547 includes a plate primary gear
and a latch primary gear 549. The latch primary gear 549 rotates a
latch cam gear 548 which rotates a latch cam shaft 538. Lobes 539
on the latch cam shaft 538 may then engage a latch to secure a
weight plate to the a cradle.
[0056] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an adjustable dumbbell
600, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. The adjustable dumbbell 600 includes a handle 602 and a
weight plate hanger 650. The weight plate hanger 650 includes two
weight plate connectors 652 that are configured to attach a weight
plate 604 to the weight plate hanger 650. The weight plate
connectors 652 may be inserted into weight plate supports 654 to
attach the weight plate 604 to the weight plate hanger 650. A plate
protrusion 656 may protrude from the cradle 606. In an upper
position (i.e., the position shown), the plate protrusion 656 may
pull the weight plate connecters 652 out of the weight plate
supports 654, thereby detaching the weight plate 604 from the
weight plate hanger 650.
[0057] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an adjustable dumbbell
700, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. In the embodiment shown, a latch protrusion 768
protrudes from a weight plate receptacle 714 in a cradle 706. The
latch protrusion 768 extends into a weight plate cavity 770 in the
bottom surface 772 of a weight plate 704. The latch protrusion 768
includes two latch members 774 at a top end 771 of the latch
protrusion 768. The latch members 774 are configured to be inserted
into a notch 708 in the weight plate cavity 770. In an upper
position of the latch protrusion 768, a cavity member 773 in the
weight plate cavity 770 may push the latch members 774 into the
notch 708 in the weight plate cavity 770, thereby securing the
weight plate 704 to the cradle 706. In a lower position, the latch
members 774 may not be removed from the notch 708, and the weight
plate 704 may not be secured to the cradle 706.
[0058] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a retention mechanism
816, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. In the embodiment shown, a latch protrusion 868 extends
upward from a cradle receptacle in a cradle. A weight plate 804
includes a notch 808 in a base surface 875 of the weight plate 804.
The latch protrusion 868 may move laterally (e.g. perpendicular to
the base surface 875). In the engaged position shown, the latch
protrusion 868 is inserted into the notch 808, thereby securing the
weight plate 804 to the cradle.
[0059] A plate protrusion 856 may extend into a weight plate cavity
870 to selectively connect the weight plate 804 to a handle (as
described in reference to FIG. 6). The plate protrusion 856 and the
latch protrusion 868 may both be moved by the same combined cam
shaft 876. This may simplify an adjustable dumbbell system by only
using a single cam shaft.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an adjustable dumbbell
assembly 900, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. In the embodiment shown, the weight plate 904 includes
a weight plate cavity 970. A weight plate latch 978 may extend out
of the weight plate cavity 970 and through the body of the weight
plate 904. The cradle 906 includes a weight plate receptacle 914. A
cradle protrusion 980 may protrude from the weight plate receptacle
914. In the upper position shown, the cradle protrusion may push
the weight plate latch 978 laterally such that an outer end 982 of
the weight plate latch 978 extends past the lateral face 922. The
outer end 982 of the weight plate latch 978 may extend into a
cradle notch 984. In this manner, the weight plate 904 may be
secured to the cradle 906.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a representation of a method 1086 for securing an
adjustable dumbbell, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure. The method 1086 includes placing a dumbbell
handle in a cradle at 1088. The dumbbell handle may be selectively
connected to one or more selected weight plates of a plurality of
weight plates at 1090. One or more unselected weight plates may be
secured to the cradle based on which weight plates are selected to
be attached to the dumbbell handle at 1092. Securing the unselected
weight plate to the cradle may include inserting a latch on the
cradle into a notch in the unselected weight plate.
[0062] FIG. 11-1 is a perspective view of an adjustable dumbbell
assembly 1100, according to at least one embodiment of the present
disclosure. A cradle 1106 supports a plurality of weight plates
1104 and a handle 1102. The handle 1102 includes a plate adjustment
mechanism that selectively connects the weight plates 1104 to the
handle 1102. The plate adjustment mechanism is driven by a motor
underneath the cradle 1106.
[0063] FIG. 11-2 is another perspective view of the adjustable
dumbbell assembly 1100 of FIG. 11-1. A motor 1193 underneath the
cradle 1106 may control the plate adjustment mechanism. The motor
1193 rotates a first gear shaft (not shown) and a second gear shaft
1194-2. The first gear shaft and the second gear shaft 1194-2 are
connected by a plate gear belt 1195. Thus, the first gear shaft and
the second gear shaft 1194-2 may rotate at the same speed.
[0064] FIG. 11-3 is a top-down view of the cradle 1106 of FIG.
11-1, including a plate adjustment mechanism 1144, according to at
least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The plate
adjustment mechanism includes a first gear shaft 1194-1 and a
second gear shaft 1194-2. The first gear shaft 1194-1 and the
second gear shaft 1194-2 are driven by the motor 1193 shown in FIG.
11-2. A first pinion gear 1196-1 is connected to the first gear
shaft 1194-1 and a second pinion gear 1196-2 is connected to the
second gear shaft 1194-2. The first pinion gear 1196-1 drives a
first rack gear 1197-1 on a first plate extension bar 1198-1 and
the second pinion gear 1196-2 drives a second rack gear 1197-2 on a
second plate extension bar 1198-2.
[0065] The first plate extension bar 1198-1 and the second plate
extension bar 1198-2 are extended into a series of voids in the
weight plates 1104 shown in FIG. 11-1. The length of the extension
of the first plate extension bar 1198-1 and the second plate
extension bar 1198-2 determines the number of weight plates 1104
that are connected to the handle 1102. In this manner, by rotating
the first gear shaft 1194-1 and the second gear shaft 1194-2, the
weight plates 1104 may be selected.
[0066] FIG. 11-4 is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable
dumbbell assembly 1100 of FIG. 11-1, according to at least one
embodiment of the present disclosure. The adjustable dumbbell
assembly 1100 includes a plate adjustment mechanism 1144 located in
the handle 1102 and a retention mechanism 1116 in the cradle 1106.
The plate adjustment mechanism 1144 and the retention mechanism
1116 are driven by the same mechanism. Specifically, the first gear
shaft 1194-1 drives the first plate extension bar 1198-1 and the
first retention extension bar 1199-1, and the second plate gear
shaft 1194-2 drives the second plate extension bar 1198-2 and the
second retention extension bar 1199-2. Thus, the plate adjustment
mechanism 1144 may be mechanically coupled with the retention
mechanism 1116. In other words, as the plate adjustment mechanism
1144 connects weight plates 1104 to the handle 1102, the retention
mechanism 1116 may secure one or more of the unselected weight
plates 1104 to the cradle 1106 in conjunction with the same
operation of the motor 1193.
[0067] The cradle 1106 includes a retention mechanism slot 1103. As
the first gear shaft 1194-1 rotates, a first retention pinion gear
(not shown) on the first gear shaft 1194-1 may engage with a first
retention rack gear on the first retention extension bar 1199-1.
This may cause the first retention extension bar 1199-1 to extend
into the retention mechanism slot 1103, where it may engage one or
more latches. The one or more latches may engage one or more of the
unselected weight plates 1104, thereby securing them to the cradle.
Similarly, as the second gear shaft 1194-2 rotates, a second
retention pinion gear 1105-2 on the second gear shaft 1194-2 may
engage with a second retention rack gear on the second retention
extension bar 1199-2. This may cause the second retention extension
bar 1199-2 to extend into the retention mechanism slot 1103, where
it may engage one or more latches. The one or more latches may
engage one or more of the unselected weight plates 1104, thereby
securing them to the cradle.
[0068] In some embodiments, each of the weight plates 1104 may be
connected to each other with an interlocking connection 1107. For
example, in the embodiment shown, the interlocking connection may
allow the weight plates 1104 to be separated from each other using
an upward force, but may prevent separation from each other using a
downward or a longitudinal force (e.g., parallel to the handle
1102). In some embodiments, the interlocking connection 1107 may be
a dovetail connection. In some embodiments, the interlocking
connection 1107 may be any type of interlocking connection.
[0069] The interlocking connection 1107 may help to keep all of the
unselected weight plates 1104 oriented in the same orientation. In
this manner, the handle 1102 and the selected weight plates 1104
may be removed from the cradle 1106, and all of the unselected
weight plates 1104 may remain upright in the cradle 1106. This may
allow the handle 1102 and the selected weight plates 1102 to be
easily re-inserted into the cradle 1106 without having to align the
unselected weight plates in the cradle 1106.
[0070] In some embodiments, the retention mechanism 1116 may
include a retention protrusion 1109 at either end of the cradle
1106. The retention protrusions 1109 may extend into an end weight
plate 1111. The end weight plate 1111 may be connected to the other
weight plates 1104 with the interlocking connection 1107. Thus,
when the handle 1102 is removed, the end weight plate 1111 may
remain secured to the cradle 1106, and the remaining unselected
weight plates 1104 may remain oriented relative to the end weight
plate 1111 via the interlocking connection 1107. Thus, the end
weight plates 1111 may be the only weight plate secured to the
cradle 1106, and the remaining weight plates 1104 may remain
upright based on the interlocking connection 1107 to the end weight
plate 1111.
[0071] In some embodiments, the retention protrusions 1109 may be
rigidly attached to the cradle 1106. For example, the retention
protrusions 1109 may have a height and/or position relative to the
cradle 1106 that does not change based on an actuation of the plate
adjustment mechanism 1144. In some embodiments, the retention
protrusions 1109 may be actuated. For example, the retention
protrusions 1109 may have an adjustable height, and may only extend
into the end weight plate 1111 when the retention mechanism 1116
activates the retention protrusion 1109. In other examples, the end
weight plate 1111 may be secured to the cradle 1106 using a latch
on the lateral face of the end weight plate 1111, or any other
mechanism described herein.
[0072] FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of an adjustable
dumbbell control system 1223, according to at least one embodiment
of the present disclosure. The adjustable dumbbell control system
1223 may be used to control the any of the adjustable dumbbells and
associated hardware discussed herein. For example, the adjustable
dumbbell control system 1223 may be used to control the adjustable
dumbbell system 100 of FIG. 1, the adjustable dumbbell system 200
of FIG. 2, the cradle 306 of FIG. 3, the retention mechanism 416 of
FIG. 4, the adjustable dumbbell system 500 of FIG. 5-1 and FIG.
5-2, the adjustable dumbbell 600 of FIG. 6, the adjustable dumbbell
700 of FIG. 7, the retention mechanism of 816 of FIG. 8, the
adjustable dumbbell assembly 900 of FIG. 9, the adjustable dumbbell
assembly 1100 of FIG. 11-1 through FIG. 11-4, and combinations
thereof. The adjustable dumbbell control system 1223 may be used to
execute the method 1086 of FIG. 10.
[0073] The adjustable dumbbell control system 1223 includes an
adjustable dumbbell system 1200. The adjustable dumbbell system
1200 may include a weight controller 1213. The weight controller
1213 may be configured to attach weight plates to a handle based on
a set weight. The weight controller 1213 may receive the set weight
from the weight selection input 1215. A user may input a set weight
into the weight selection input 1215, and, based on the set weight
set entered into the weight selection input, the weight controller
1213 may attach an appropriate number of plates to the handle to
set the adjustable dumbbell to the set weight. In this manner, by
using the weight selection input 1215, the user may have an
increased control over his or her workouts. This may improve the
exercise experience.
[0074] In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure,
the weight controller 1213 may connect weight plates to the handle
using any structure, mechanism, actuator, or other device discussed
herein. For example, the weight controller 1213 may activate one or
more latches to secure the selected weight plates to the handle. In
some examples, the weight controller 1213 may activate one or more
latches to secure unselected weight plates to the cradle. In some
embodiments, based on the set weight, the weight controller 1213
may identify a combination of weight plates to attach to the
handle. the weight controller 1213 may then connect the identified
combination of weight plates to the handle using any mechanism
discussed herein. In some embodiments, the weight controller 1213
may connect unselected or identified weight plates to the cradle to
reduce the risk of loss or injury from a loose weight plate.
[0075] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 1215 may
receive the set weight using any type of input. For example, the
user may enter the set weight into the weight selection input 1215
with a verbal command. For example, the user may verbalize a
command, such as "set the weight to 15 pounds." A microphone on a
voice recognition input 1217 may receive the verbal command, and
voice recognition software may process the verbal command to
determine the set weight. After processing the verbal command, the
voice recognition input 1217 may communicate the set weight to the
weight controller 1213.
[0076] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 1215 may
receive the set weight from a remote computing device 1219. The
remote computing device 1219 may transmit the set weight to a
communication device at the weight selection input 1215, which may
then send the set weight to the weight controller 1213. The weight
controller 1213 may then attach the appropriate weight plates to
the handle to arrive at the set weight.
[0077] In some embodiments, the weight selection input 1215 may
receive the set weight from one or more buttons 1221 on a cradle or
otherwise connected to the adjustable dumbbell system 1200. The
buttons 1221 may include specific set weights, specific weight
plates to connect to the handle, weight increments, activities
associated with set weights, any other button input, and
combinations thereof.
[0078] In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell system 1200 may
further include a display 1225. The display 1225 may include
exercise information associated with the adjustable dumbbell. For
example, the display 1225 may provide the user with information
regarding the set weight, the weight plates attached to the handle,
an exercise to be performed, a previous and/or pending exercise,
set weights to associated with one or more exercises, an exercise
timer, a rest timer, a calorie burn value, any other exercise
information, and combinations thereof.
[0079] In some embodiments, the display 1225 may include one or
more elements of the weight selection input 1215. For example, the
display 1225 may include one or more buttons 1221. In some
embodiments, the display 1225 may be a touch-sensitive display, and
the buttons 1221 may be a designated portion of the touch-sensitive
display. In some embodiments, the display 1225 may provide
instructions to the user to provide verbal commands to the
adjustable display system 1200. In some embodiments, the display
1225 may provide information received from the remote computing
device 1217.
[0080] FIG. 13 is a representation of a method 1327 for securing an
adjustable dumbbell, according to at least one embodiment of the
present disclosure. The method 1327 may be performed by the
adjustable dumbbell control system 1223 of FIG. 12.
[0081] In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure,
the method 1327 may include receiving a set weight from a weight
selection input at 1329. For example, the weight selection input
may include a voice recognition input, and the set weight may be
input using a verbal command from a user. In some examples, the set
weight may be input using a button, may be received from a remote
computing device, or may be input using any other input
mechanism.
[0082] Based on the received/inputted set weight, one or more
weight plates may be selectively connected to a handle to set the
adjustable dumbbell to the set weight at 1331. In some embodiments,
a weight controller may identify which weight plates to connect to
the handle to reach the set weight, and may provide instructions to
the adjustment mechanism to connect the weight plates to the
handle. Any unselected weight plates may be connected to the cradle
at 1335. An unselected weight plate may be a weight plate that is
not connected to the handle. In some embodiments, the weight
controller may identify the unselected weight plates.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0083] Adjustable dumbbells allow a user to exercise using a
selected weight within a weight range, while reducing the need for
individual dumbbells of a series of weights within the same weight
range. Adjustable dumbbells include a handle or other support bar
which may then have one or more weight plates selectively connected
to the support bar. To increase the weight of the adjustable
dumbbell, the user simply connects or attaches additional weight
plates to the handle until the desired weight is reached. In some
embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a hand weight. For
example, the handle may be sized such that a spacing between two
sets of weight plates is wide enough for a single hand. In some
embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a long bar, such as a
bar used for squats, bench press, and so forth. The long bar may
have a width between sets of weight plates sufficient for widely
spaced hands (e.g., greater than shoulder length apart). In some
embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be a weight for a weight
machine. In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may have a
single set of weight plates, such as for a kettle ball.
[0084] In some embodiments, an adjustable dumbbell may include a
plate adjustment mechanism that connects selected weight plates to
the adjustable dumbbell until the desired weight is reached.
Regardless of how the selected weight plates are connected to the
handle, a user may not always have all the weight plates
simultaneously connected to the handle. Therefore, when the user
removes the handle from the cradle, one or more unselected weight
plates may remain behind in the cradle. These unselected weight
plates may become dislodged from the cradle. In at least one
embodiment, an unselected weight plate that is dislodged from the
cradle may become a safety hazard, and may be dropped on a user,
left on the floor to be tripped over, or present another safety
hazard. Furthermore, in at least one embodiment, the unselected
weight plate that is dislodged from the cradle may become
misplaced. For example, the unselected weight plate may be stolen,
lost, put away in the wrong plate, or otherwise misplaced.
[0085] To prevent the unselected weight plates from becoming
dislodged from the cradle, the cradle may include a retention
mechanism. The retention mechanism may secure the unselected weight
plates to the cradle while allowing the selected weight plates to
be removed from the cradle while attached to the handle. In this
manner, the unselected weight plates may not become dislodged, and
therefore may not be a safety hazard or misplaced. Securing the
unselected weight plates to the cradle may further improve the
exercise experience for the user by removing the need for the user
to consciously keep track of the unselected weight plates.
[0086] The plate adjustment mechanism may be located anywhere in an
adjustable dumbbell system. In some embodiments, the plate
adjustment mechanism may be located in the handle of the adjustable
dumbbell. A dial or gear on an outer edge of the adjustable
dumbbell may rotate a shaft through the handle that includes a
plurality of plate adjustment cams. The plate adjustment cams may
selectively insert a pin into a notch in weight plate, thereby
selecting the weight plate to be attached or connected to the
handle.
[0087] In some embodiments, the adjustable dumbbell may be placed
in a cradle, and the plate adjustment mechanism may be located in
the cradle. The plate adjustment mechanism may include a protrusion
in the cradle that extends into a cavity in a weight plate. The
protrusion may have an adjustable height. In an upper position, the
protrusion may push a latch on a support member connected to the
handle inward, away from a notch in the cavity of the weight plate.
This will decouple the weight plate from the handle. In a lower
position, the protrusion may not contact the latch, and the latch
may be urged into the notch in the cavity of the weight plate by a
resilient member.
[0088] The cradle may include a retention mechanism including one
or more latches. Each latch may be located on the cradle and
selectively inserted into a notch on a weight plate. By inserting
the latch into the notch, the retention mechanism may secure an
unselected weight plate to the cradle. In some embodiments, each
weight plate may be associated with a latch. The retention
mechanism may selectively secure the latch to an associated weight
plate while the adjustable dumbbell is placed in the cradle. In
this manner, unselected weight plates may be secured to the cradle
before the adjustable dumbbell with the selected weight plates
attached to the handle is removed from the cradle. In at least one
embodiment, securing the unselected weight plates to the cradle
before the adjustable dumbbell is removed may help the unselected
weight plates from becoming dislodged from the cradle when the
adjustable dumbbell is removed. For example, the unselected weight
plates may be secured to the cradle despite bumping, jostling, or
friction forces on the unselected weight plates by the handle
and/or the selected weight plates during removal of the handle and
selected weight plates.
[0089] In some embodiments, an adjustable dumbbell may include
multiple weight plates on two ends of a handle. In this manner, a
user may grip the handle and move the weights while holding the
handle. In some embodiments, an equal weight may be attached to the
handle on either end. In some embodiments, an unequal weight may be
attached to the handle. In other words, a first end of the handle
may have more weight secured to it than a second end of the handle.
This may occur because more weight plates are attached to the first
end of the handle. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism may
secure more unselected weight plates to the second end of the
cradle than the first end of the cradle to match the unbalanced
adjustable dumbbell.
[0090] In some embodiments, the retention mechanism may include a
single latch that secures multiple weight plates to the cradle. For
example, the single latch may include a bar that extends an
entirety of the length of the adjustable dumbbell. In some
examples, the single latch may secure some, but not all, of the
weight plates to the cradle. In some embodiments, the single latch
may secure two, three, four, five, six, or more weight plates to
the cradle. In some embodiments, a single adjustable dumbbell may
include both individual latches for each weight plate and a long,
bar latch that may secure multiple weight plates to the cradle.
This may increase the stability of the connection between the
weight plates and the cradle, and may prevent misplacement of the
weight plates and prevent the weight plates from becoming safety
hazards.
[0091] In some embodiments, the weight plates are shaped like a
plate. The plate has a length, a width, and a depth. In some
embodiments, the length and the width may be approximately the
same, such as with a square, a circle, or other equilateral
polygon. In some embodiments, the length and the width may be
different, such as with a rectangle, an ellipse, or other polygonal
or non-polygonal structure. The length and width may be larger than
the depth of the weight plate. Thus, the weight plate may represent
a plate, a disc, or other planar structure. The depth may be the
smallest dimension between any two faces of the weight plate.
[0092] The weight plates may include two base faces and at least
one outer face that runs along an outer circumference of the weight
plate. In some embodiments, the depth may be the smallest
measurement between two edges of the outer face. The base faces may
have any cross-sectional shape, including circular, elliptical,
square, rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, polygonal
of any side, non-polygonal, or other cross-sectional shape. The
outer face may include one or more faces, depending on the number
of edges of the cross-sectional shape. For example, the outer face
may include an upper face, a base face opposite the upper face, and
first and second lateral faces transverse to the upper face and the
base face, the first lateral face being opposite the second lateral
face.
[0093] Each weight plate includes a notch. The notch may be located
at any location on the weight plate. In some embodiments, the notch
may be located on a first base face or a second base face. In some
embodiments, the notch may be located on the outer face, such as on
the first lateral face, the second lateral face, both the first
lateral face and the second lateral face, the top face, the cradle
face, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the notch is
an indentation, cavity, or void in the face of the weight plate. In
some embodiments, the notch may be located inside a cavity in the
weight plate.
[0094] The notch may have any number of edges, including 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, or more sides. The edges of the notch may have any shape,
including a curved edge, a straight edge, or a combination of
curved and straight edges. Thus, the notch may have any shape,
including hemispherical, cylindrical, triangular, square,
rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or any other shape.
[0095] In some embodiments, the latch of the retention mechanism
includes a protrusion that extends into the notch. In some
embodiments, the protrusion may be triangular, pyramidal,
hemispherical, cylindrical, conical, or any other shape that may be
inserted into the notch.
[0096] In some embodiments, a latch engagement surface of the latch
has a complementary shape to a notch engagement surface of the
notch. For example, the latch engagement surface may be flat and at
a latch engagement angle. The notch engagement surface may
similarly be flat and have a notch engagement angle. When
activated, the notch may engage the notch at the notch engagement
surface, and a majority or all of the latch engagement surface may
be in contact with a majority or all of the notch engagement
surface. This may increase the bearing area, which may help to
increase the resistance to dislodging and/or removal of the
unselected weight plates.
[0097] In some embodiments, the latch engagement angle, as measured
counterclockwise relative to the lateral face, may be in a range
having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values
including any of 45.degree., 60.degree., 75.degree., 80.degree.,
85.degree., 90.degree., 95.degree., 100.degree., 105.degree.,
120.degree., 135.degree., or any value therebetween. For example,
the latch engagement angle may be greater than 45.degree.. In
another example, the latch engagement angle may be less than
135.degree.. In yet other examples, the latch engagement angle may
be any value in a range between 45.degree. and 135.degree.. A latch
engagement angle that is close to 90.degree. may provide the
greatest force to secure the weight plate to the cradle. In some
embodiments, a latch engagement angle of greater than 45.degree.
may be critical to provide sufficient force to secure the weight
plate to the cradle.
[0098] In some embodiments, the notch engagement angle, as measured
counterclockwise relative to the lateral face, may be in a range
having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values
including any of 45.degree., 60.degree., 75.degree., 80.degree.,
85.degree., 90.degree., 95.degree., 100.degree., 105.degree.,
120.degree., 135.degree., or any value therebetween. For example,
the notch engagement angle may be greater than 45.degree.. In
another example, the notch engagement angle may be less than
135.degree.. In yet other examples, the notch engagement angle may
be any value in a range between 45.degree. and 135.degree.. A notch
engagement angle that is close to 90.degree. may provide the
greatest force to secure the weight plate to the cradle. In some
embodiments, a notch engagement angle of less than 135.degree. may
be critical to provide sufficient force to secure the weight plate
to the cradle.
[0099] In some embodiments, the latch engagement angle and the
notch engagement angle are supplementary. In other words, the latch
engagement angle and the notch engagement angle add up to
180.degree.. Supplementary latch engagement angles and notch
engagement angles may increase the bearing surface between the
latch engagement surface and the notch engagement surface. This may
increase the force with which the weight plate is secured to the
cradle. In some embodiments, the latch engagement angle and the
notch engagement angle are not supplementary, and may add up to an
angle that is greater than or less than 180.degree..
[0100] In some embodiments, the latch has a complementary
cross-sectional shape with the notch. Thus, when actuated, the
latch may be inserted into the notch and provide resistance to
removal of the unselected weight plate from the cradle. In some
embodiments, the latch has a non-complementary cross-sectional
shape with the notch.
[0101] In some embodiments, the latch may be located to a side of
the adjustable dumbbell. In this manner, the latch may be
configured connect to a notch that is on a lateral face or the top
face of the weight plates. In some embodiments, a latch to the side
of the adjustable dumbbell may engage the top face directly, and
not a notch in the top face, to secure the weight plate to the
cradle. This may allow the retention system to secure the weight
plate to the cradle. Furthermore, retention system to the side of
the adjustable dumbbell may allow the user to visibly verify that
the latch is engaged with the weight plate.
[0102] In some embodiments, the latch may be located underneath the
adjustable dumbbell. In this manner, the latch may be configured to
be inserted into a cavity in the cradle surface of the weight plate
and engage a notch located in the cavity. This may allow the weight
plate to be secured to the cradle, and may prevent a user from
tampering with the retention mechanism.
[0103] In some embodiments, the retention mechanism in the cradle
may exert a force on the latch, thereby inserting the latch into
and out of the notch. For example, the retention mechanism may
include a retention cam shaft including a plurality of lobes. The
lobes may be spaced longitudinally along the retention shaft and
aligned with a latch arm on the latch. As a lobe pushes on the
latch arm, the protrusion on the latch may be moved relative to the
notch. Each latch may include a resilient member that urges the
latch opposite the direction the lobe pushes on the latch arm
(e.g., toward or away from the notch). The resilient member may
include a coil spring, a torsion spring, a wave spring, a resilient
foam, an elastically deformable material, any other resilient
member, and combinations of the foregoing.
[0104] In some embodiments, when the lobe on the retention cam
shaft pushes on the latch arm, the protrusion may be moved into the
notch. In some embodiments, when the lobe on the retention cam
shaft pushes on the latch arm, the protrusion may be moved away
from the notch. In some embodiments, the latch arm may include a
pivot. When the lobe on the retention cam shaft pushes on the latch
arm, the latch arm may rotate around a pivot. Thus, when the
retention cam shaft is on the dumbbell side of the latch, when the
lobe pushes on the latch arm, the protrusion may be moved into the
notch. When the retention cam shaft is opposite the dumbbell across
the latch, when the lobe pushes on the latch arm, the protrusion
may be moved away from the notch.
[0105] In some embodiments, the latch may translate (e.g., not
rotate, move laterally toward/away from) with respect to the weight
plate. Thus, when the retention cam shaft is on the dumbbell side
of the latch, when the lobe pushes on the latch, the protrusion may
be moved away from the notch. When the retention cam shaft is
opposite the dumbbell across the latch, when the lobe pushes on the
latch, the protrusion is moved toward the notch.
[0106] In some embodiments, the latch may be located underneath the
cradle surface of the weight plate. When the adjustable dumbbell is
placed on the cradle, the latch may protrude into a cavity in the
cradle surface of the weight plate. The latch may include two
rotating latch members. In a latch upper position, a cavity member
in the cavity may push the rotating latch members into a notch in
the cavity, thereby securing the weight plate to the cradle. In a
latch lower position, the rotating latch members may not contact
the cavity member, and the rotating latch members will not be
inserted into the notch, thereby allowing the weight plate to be
removed from the cradle. In some embodiments, a retention cam shaft
may be located underneath the latch. A lobe on the retention cam
shaft may push the latch into the upper position.
[0107] In some embodiments, the weight plate may include a base
face notch in the notch of a base face. The latch may extend upward
into a cavity in the weight plate. The latch may move laterally
(e.g., perpendicularly toward and away from the base face notch)
until the latch is engaged with the base face notch. In this
manner, the latch may move horizontally to secure the weight plate
to the cradle.
[0108] In some embodiments, a retention mechanism may move the
latch toward or away from the notch, and may include any retention
mechanism, including a cam shaft, a solenoid, a linear motor, a
piezoelectric material, other linear motion devices, and
combinations of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the retention
mechanism may include lobes located on the cam shaft selectively
and individually engage or actuate the latches. In some
embodiments, the cam shaft may actuate a single latch at a time. In
some embodiments, the cam shaft may actuate more than one latch at
a time. In some embodiments, the cam shaft may actuate all the
latches at once. In some embodiments, the cam shaft may include
multiple lobes on the same circumference, which may actuate a latch
at different rotational positions. In this manner, the cam shaft
may actuate different combinations of latches depending on the
combination of selected and unselected weight plates. In some
embodiments, a plurality of latches may use the same cam shaft. In
some embodiments, all the latches may use the same cam shaft. In
some embodiments, multiple cam shafts may actuate multiple latches.
In some embodiments, each latch may be located on the same side of
the weight plates. In some embodiments, at least one latch may be
located on a first side of the weight plates, and at least one
latch may be located on a second side of the weight plates.
[0109] In some embodiments, as discussed above, the weight plates
may be selected and attached to the handle using a plate protrusion
extending from a plate receptacle into a cavity in the weight
plate. Furthermore, as discussed above, the latch may protrude from
the plate receptacle. Thus, each weight plate may have two
protrusions extending into the weight plate. In some embodiments,
the plate protrusion and the latch may extend into the same cavity
in the weight plate. In some embodiments, the plate protrusion and
the latch may extend into different cavities in the weight plate.
In some embodiments, the plate protrusion and the latch may be
actuated by the same retention mechanism. For example, the plate
protrusion and the latch may be actuated using the same cam shaft,
with the lobes on the cam shaft being configured to actuate both
the plate protrusion and the latch. In some embodiments, the plate
protrusion and the latch may be actuated by different retention
mechanisms. For example, the plate protrusion may be actuated by a
plate cam shaft and the latch may be actuated by a latch cam
shaft.
[0110] In some embodiments, the weight plate may include plate
latch, and the cradle may include a cradle notch. A protrusion may
extend up from a plate receptacle and into a cavity in the weight
plate. In an upper position, the protrusion may push one or more
plate latches laterally outward. The one or more plate latches may
extend into the cradle notch. Thus, when the adjustable dumbbell is
removed, the unselected weight plate may be secured to the cradle
with the plate latch inserted into the cradle notch. In some
embodiments, a retention mechanism may be located underneath the
latch and move the latch between the upper and lower position. In
some embodiments, the weight plate may include both a plate latch
and a notch, and the cradle may include a latch and a cradle notch.
This may provide additional strength to the contact between the
weight plate and the cradle, thereby providing additional
protection from dislodging the weight plate from the cradle.
[0111] In some embodiments, each latch of the plurality of latches
may have an associated retention mechanism. This may allow for many
different combinations of engaged latches, and therefore many
different combinations of weight plates that are secured to the
cradle. This may increase the versatility of the adjustable
dumbbell, which may improve the user experience. In some
embodiments, multiple latches may use the same retention mechanism.
This may simplify the cradle assembly, which may improve
reliability and decrease manufacturing costs.
[0112] In some embodiments, the plate adjustment mechanism may be
mechanically connected to the retention mechanism. In this manner,
as the selected weight plates are connected to the handle or the
bar support, the unselected weight plates may be automatically
secured to the cradle. For example, an adjustable dumbbell may
include at least two weight plates. A user may select a desired
weight for the adjustable dumbbell with a weight selection input on
the cradle, the dumbbell, the handle, or other location. The user
may cause the plate adjustment mechanism to select a first weight
and connect it to the handle. Using the plate adjustment mechanism
may mechanically activate the retention mechanism, which may secure
the unselected weight plate to the cradle. In at least one
embodiment, mechanically connecting the plate adjustment mechanism
to the retention mechanism may simplify the use of the adjustable
dumbbell by allowing the user to focus on selecting and using the
desired weight plates, without worrying about securing the
unselected weight plates or worrying about safety hazards from
unselected weight plates.
[0113] In some embodiments, the plate adjustment mechanism may
include a combined cam shaft to connect weight plates to the
handle, and retention mechanism use the same combined cam shaft to
engage the latches in the notches of the weight plates, thereby
securing the weight plates to the handle. In some embodiments, the
plate adjustment mechanism may include a plate cam shaft in the
handle of the adjustable dumbbell. The plate cam shaft may be
rotated by a plate gear on a primary shaft. A latch cam shaft may
selectively engage the latches with the weight plates. The latch
cam shaft may be rotated by a latch gear. In some embodiments, the
latch gear may be on the same primary shaft as the plate gear. In
some embodiments, the latch gear may be located on a secondary
shaft that is connected to the primary shaft with a geared
connection. Furthermore, this may help to prevent mistakenly
securing unselected weight plates to the cradle. Still further,
this may help to prevent mistakenly failing to secure an unselected
weight plate, which may then become misplaced or become a safety
hazard.
[0114] In some embodiments, the cradle may include weight plate
receptacles, a plate adjustment mechanism, and a retention
mechanism sufficient to operate single adjustable dumbbell. In some
embodiments, the cradle may include weight plate receptacles, plate
adjustment mechanisms, and retention mechanisms sufficient to
operate single adjustable dumbbell. In some embodiments, plate
adjustment mechanism and the retentions mechanism for multiple
adjustable dumbbells may be operated by the same driving force,
such as a primary shaft. This may simplify the dumbbell adjustment
process for the user. Furthermore, this may help to prevent
mistakenly securing unselected weight plates to the cradle. Still
further, this may help to prevent mistakenly failing to secure an
unselected weight plate, which may then become misplaced or become
a safety hazard.
[0115] In some embodiments, a method for securing an adjustable
dumbbell includes placing a dumbbell handle in a cradle. The
dumbbell handle may be selectively connected to one or more
selected weight plates of a plurality of weight plates. One or more
unselected weight plates may be secured to the cradle based on
which weight plates are selected to be attached to the dumbbell
handle. Securing the unselected weight plate to the cradle may
include inserting a latch on the cradle into a notch in the
unselected weight plate. Securing the unselected weight plates to
the cradle may further include inserting a protrusion into a cavity
in the unselected weight plate, the protrusion including a latch
that connects to a notch in the cavity.
[0116] The method may further include selecting the selected weight
plate and identifying the unselected weight plate as any weight
plate of the plurality of weight plates that is not the selected
weight plate. In other words, the total number of weight plates may
be divided into selected weight plates connected or attached to the
dumbbell handle, and unselected weight plates secured to the
cradle.
[0117] In some embodiments, an adjustable dumbbell may include a
rack and pinion plate adjustment mechanism. A motor may be located
in the cradle and a shaft may extend through the cradle and connect
to a gear housing. The gear housing may include a pinion gear. The
handle may be hollow and include an extension arm. A rack gear
(e.g., a linear gear) may be located inside the hollow handle. The
rack gear may be connected to the pinion gear. As the pinion gear
rotates, the rack gear may extend the extension arm. Each weight
plate may include a void through which the extension arm may
extend. The length of extension of the extension arm may determine
the number of selected weight plates, and therefore the total
weight, of the adjustable dumbbell. The motor may also be connected
to a retention mechanism including a rack and pinion gear in the
cradle, which may extend a latch arm. The latch arm may cause
latches to engage/disengage with notches on the weight plates
corresponding to the selected and unselected weight plates. Thus,
the plate adjustment mechanism and the retention mechanism may be
connected through a geared connection.
[0118] In some embodiments, a cradle supports a plurality of weight
plates and a handle. The handle includes a plate adjustment
mechanism that selectively connects the weight plates to the
handle. The plate adjustment mechanism is driven by a motor
underneath the cradle.
[0119] A motor underneath the cradle may control the plate
adjustment mechanism. The motor rotates a first gear shaft and a
second gear shaft. The first gear shaft and the second gear shaft
are connected by a plate gear belt. Thus, the first gear shaft and
the second gear shaft may rotate at the same speed.
[0120] The plate adjustment mechanism includes a first gear shaft
and a second gear shaft. The first gear shaft and the second gear
shaft are driven by the motor. A first pinion gear is connected to
the first gear shaft and a second pinion gear is connected to the
second gear shaft. The first pinion gear drives a first rack gear
on a first plate extension bar and the second pinion gear drives a
second rack gear on a second plate extension bar.
[0121] The first plate extension bar and the second plate extension
bar are extended into a series of voids in the weight plates. The
length of the extension of the first plate extension bar and the
second plate extension bar determines the number of weight plates
that are connected to the handle. In this manner, by rotating the
first gear shaft and the second gear shaft, the weight plates may
be selected.
[0122] The adjustable dumbbell assembly includes a plate adjustment
mechanism located in the handle and a retention mechanism in the
cradle. The plate adjustment mechanism and the retention mechanism
are driven by the same mechanism. Specifically, the first gear
shaft drives the first plate extension bar and the first retention
extension bar, and the second plate gear shaft drives the second
plate extension bar and the second retention extension bar. Thus,
the plate adjustment mechanism may be mechanically coupled with the
retention mechanism. In other words, as the plate adjustment
mechanism connects weight plates to the handle, the retention
mechanism may secure one or more of the unselected weight plates to
the cradle in conjunction with the same operation of the motor.
[0123] The cradle includes a retention mechanism slot. As the first
gear shaft rotates, a first retention pinion gear (not shown) on
the first gear shaft may engage with a first retention rack gear on
the first retention extension bar. This may cause the first
retention extension bar to extend into the retention mechanism
slot, where it may engage one or more latches. The one or more
latches may engage one or more of the unselected weight plates,
thereby securing them to the cradle. Similarly, as the second gear
shaft rotates, a second retention pinion gear on the second gear
shaft may engage with a second retention rack gear on the second
retention extension bar. This may cause the second retention
extension bar to extend into the retention mechanism slot, where it
may engage one or more latches. The one or more latches may engage
one or more of the unselected weight plates, thereby securing them
to the cradle.
[0124] In some embodiments, each of the weight plates may be
connected to each other with an interlocking connection. For
example, in the embodiment shown, the interlocking connection may
allow the weight plates to be separated from each other using an
upward force, but may prevent separation from each other using a
downward or a longitudinal force (e.g., parallel to the handle). In
some embodiments, the interlocking connection may be a dovetail
connection. In some embodiments, the interlocking connection may be
any type of interlocking connection.
[0125] The interlocking connection may help to keep all of the
unselected weight plates oriented in the same orientation. In this
manner, the handle and the selected weight plates may be removed
from the cradle, and all of the unselected weight plates may remain
upright in the cradle. This may allow the handle and the selected
weight plates to be easily re-inserted into the cradle without
having to align the unselected weight plates in the cradle.
[0126] In some embodiments, the retention mechanism may include a
retention protrusion at either end of the cradle. The retention
protrusions may extend into an end weight plate. The end weight
plate may be connected to the other weight plates with the
interlocking connection. Thus, when the handle is removed, the end
weight plate may remain secured to the cradle, and the remaining
unselected weight plates may remain oriented relative to the end
weight plate via the interlocking connection. Thus, the end weight
plates may be the only weight plate secured to the cradle, and the
remaining weight plates may remain upright based on the
interlocking connection to the end weight plate.
[0127] In some embodiments, the retention protrusions may be
rigidly attached to the cradle. For example, the retention
protrusions may have a height and/or position relative to the
cradle that does not change based on an actuation of the plate
adjustment mechanism. In some embodiments, the retention
protrusions may be actuated. For example, the retention protrusions
may have an adjustable height, and may only extend into the end
weight plate when the retention mechanism activates the retention
protrusion. In other examples, the end weight plate may be secured
to the cradle using a latch on the lateral face of the end weight
plate, or any other mechanism described herein.
[0128] Below are sections of the current disclosure: [0129] A1. A
system for securing an adjustable dumbbell, comprising: [0130] a
handle; [0131] a plate adjustment mechanism configured to
selectively connect a selected weight plate of a plurality of
weight plates to the handle, each weight plate of the plurality of
weight plates including an engagement surface; [0132] a cradle
configured to receive the plurality of weight plates, the cradle
including a latch; and [0133] a retention mechanism configured to
selectively engage the latch with the engagement surface of an
unselected weight plate of the plurality of weight plates, wherein
the plate adjustment mechanism is mechanically connected to the
retention mechanism. [0134] A2. The system of section A1, wherein
the plate adjustment mechanism is located in the cradle. [0135] A3.
The system of section A1 or section A2, wherein the retention
mechanism inserts a protrusion on the latch into a notch having the
engagement surface. [0136] A4. The system of any of section A1
through A3, wherein the plate adjustment mechanism is connected to
the retention mechanism with a geared connection. [0137] A5. The
system of section A4, wherein the plate adjustment mechanism
includes a plate cam shaft and the retention mechanism includes a
latch cam shaft, and wherein the plate cam shaft and the latch cam
shaft are driven by a primary shaft. [0138] A6. The system of any
of sections A1 through A5, wherein the retention mechanism includes
a motor configured to move the latch in and out of engagement with
the engagement surface. [0139] A7. The system of section A6,
wherein the motor is controlled by an exercise program. [0140] A8.
The system of section A6 or A7, wherein an exercise controller
actuates the retention mechanism based on user input. [0141] A9.
The system of section A8, wherein the user input is received at a
computing device. [0142] A10. The system of section A9, wherein the
user input includes a voice command received by a voice recognition
module. [0143] A11. The system of section A9 or A10, wherein the
user input includes an input in one or more buttons. [0144] A12.
The system of any of sections A7 through A11, wherein the exercise
program is received or controlled by a remote computing device.
[0145] A13. The system of any of sections A7 through A12, wherein a
selected weight is displayed on the display. [0146] A14. The system
of any of sections A1 through A13, wherein the retention mechanism
includes a plurality of latches configured to be selectively
inserted into the engagement surface. [0147] A15. The system of
section A14, wherein the cradle includes a plurality of weight
plate receptacle, and each weight plate receptacle includes a latch
of the plurality of latches. [0148] A16. The system of section A15,
further comprising a plurality of protrusions extending from the
weight plate receptacles, and wherein each weight plate of the
plurality of weight plates includes a cavity, a protrusion from the
plurality of protrusions extending into the cavity. [0149] A17. The
system of section A16, wherein each protrusion of the plurality of
protrusions includes a latch of the plurality of latches, and
wherein the cavity includes the notch. [0150] A18. The system of
any of sections A14 through section A17, wherein the notch is
located on an outer face of each weight plate of the plurality of
weight plates. [0151] A19. The system of section A18, wherein the
notch is located on a lateral face of each weight plate of the
plurality of weight plates. [0152] A20. The system of section A19,
wherein the notch is a first notch, and each weight plate of the
plurality of weight plates includes a second notch. [0153] A21. The
system of section A20, wherein each weight plate of the plurality
of weight plates is secured to the cradle with a first latch of the
plurality of latches inserted into the first notch and a second
latch of the plurality of latches inserted into the second notch.
[0154] A22. The system of any of sections A19 through A21, wherein
a single latch is inserted into the notch of two weight plates of
the plurality of weight plates. [0155] A23. The system of section
A22, wherein the single latch includes a bar that extends along a
length of the handle. [0156] A24. The system of any of sections A18
through A23, wherein the notch is located on a top face of at least
one weight plate of the plurality of weight plates. [0157] B1. A
system for securing an adjustable dumbbell, comprising: [0158] a
handle; [0159] a plurality of weight plates removably connected to
the handle, each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates
including a notch; and [0160] a cradle including: [0161] a
plurality of weight plate receptacles configured to receive each
weight plate of the plurality of weight plates; and [0162] a
plurality of latches configured to be selectively inserted into the
notch located on each weight plate of the plurality of weight
plates, wherein the plurality of latches are individually actuated.
[0163] B2. The system of section B1, wherein each weight plate
receptacle includes a latch of the plurality of latches. [0164] B3.
The system of section B2, further comprising a plurality of
protrusions extending from the weight plate receptacles, and
wherein each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates
includes a cavity, a protrusion from the plurality of protrusions
extending into the cavity. [0165] B4. The system of section B3,
wherein each protrusion of the plurality of protrusions includes a
latch of the plurality of latches, and wherein the cavity includes
the notch. [0166] B5. The system of any of sections B1 through
section B4, wherein the notch is located on an outer face of each
weight plate of the plurality of weight plates. [0167] B6. The
system of section B5, wherein the notch is located on a lateral
face of each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates. [0168]
B7. The system of section B6, wherein the notch is a first notch,
and each weight plate of the plurality of weight plates includes a
second notch. [0169] B8. The system of section B7, wherein each
weight plate of the plurality of weight plates is secured to the
cradle with a first latch of the plurality of latches inserted into
the first notch and a second latch of the plurality of latches
inserted into the second notch. [0170] B9. The system of any of
sections B6 through B8, wherein a single latch is inserted into the
notch of two weight plates of the plurality of weight plates.
[0171] B10. The system of section B9, wherein the single latch
includes a bar that extends along a length of the handle. [0172]
B11. The system of any of sections B5 through B10, wherein the
notch is located on a top face of at least one weight plate of the
plurality of weight plates. [0173] B12. The system of any of
sections B1 through B11, wherein the cradle includes a motor
configured to move the plurality of latches in and out of
engagement with the notch on the plurality of weight plates. [0174]
B13. The system of section B12, wherein the motor is controlled by
an exercise program. [0175] B14. The system of section B12 or B13,
wherein an exercise controller actuates the retention mechanism
based on user input. [0176] B15. The system of section B14, wherein
the user input is received at a computing device. [0177] B16. The
system of section B15, wherein the user input includes a voice
command received by a voice recognition module. [0178] B17. The
system of section B15 or B16, wherein the user input includes an
input in one or more buttons. [0179] B18. The system of any of
sections B13 through B17, wherein the exercise program is received
or controlled by a remote computing device. [0180] B19. The system
of any of sections B13 through B18, wherein a selected weight is
displayed on the display. [0181] B20. The system of any of sections
B13 through B19, wherein the retention mechanism includes a
plurality of latches configured to be selectively inserted into the
engagement surface. [0182] C1. A method for securing an adjustable
dumbbell, comprising: [0183] placing a dumbbell handle in a cradle;
[0184] selectively connecting the dumbbell handle to a selected
weight plate of a plurality of weight plates; and [0185] securing
an unselected weight plate of the plurality of weight plates to the
cradle based on the selected weight plate connected to the dumbbell
handle. [0186] C2. The method of section C1, further comprising:
[0187] selecting the selected weight plate; and [0188] identifying
the unselected weight plate as any weight plate of the plurality of
weight plates that is not the selected weight plate. [0189] C3. The
method of section C1 or section C2, wherein securing the unselected
weight plate includes inserting a latch into a notch in the
unselected weight plate. [0190] C4. The method of any of sections
C1 through C3, wherein securing the unselected weight plate
includes inserting a weight plate latch on the weight plate into a
cradle notch on the cradle. [0191] C5. The system of any of
sections C1 through C4, wherein selectively connecting the dumbbell
handle to the selected weight plate includes actuating a retention
mechanism with a motor. [0192] C6. The system of section C5,
further comprising controlling the motor with an exercise program.
[0193] C7. The system of section C5 or C6, further comprising
actuating the retention mechanism based on user input. [0194] C8.
The system of section C7, further comprising receiving the user
input at a computing device. [0195] C9. The system of section C8,
wherein the user input includes a voice command received by a voice
recognition module. [0196] C10. The system of section C8 or C9,
wherein the user input includes an input in one or more buttons.
[0197] C11. The system of any of sections C8 through C10, wherein
the exercise program is received or controlled by a remote
computing device. [0198] C12. The system of any of sections C6
through C11, wherein a selected weight is displayed on the display.
[0199] C13. The system of any of sections C6 through C12, wherein
the retention mechanism includes a plurality of latches configured
to be selectively inserted into the engagement surface.
[0200] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure
are described herein. These described embodiments are examples of
the presently disclosed techniques. Additionally, in an effort to
provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all
features of an actual embodiment may be described in the
specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of
any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design
project, numerous embodiment-specific decisions will be made to
achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with
system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary
from one embodiment to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated
that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming,
but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design,
fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the
benefit of this disclosure.
[0201] The articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that
there are one or more of the elements in the preceding
descriptions. The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are
intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional
elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, it should be
understood that references to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment"
of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as
excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also
incorporate the recited features. For example, any element
described in relation to an embodiment herein may be combinable
with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers,
percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to
include that value, and also other values that are "about" or
"approximately" the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of
ordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the present
disclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly
enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the
stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired
result. The stated values include at least the variation to be
expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may
include values that are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or
within 0.01% of a stated value.
[0202] A person having ordinary skill in the art should realize in
view of the present disclosure that equivalent constructions do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and
that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made to
embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present disclosure. Equivalent constructions,
including functional "means-plus-function" clauses are intended to
cover the structures described herein as performing the recited
function, including both structural equivalents that operate in the
same manner, and equivalent structures that provide the same
function. It is the express intention of the applicant not to
invoke means-plus-function or other functional claiming for any
claim except for those in which the words `means for` appear
together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion, and
modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning and
scope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.
[0203] The terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially" as
used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that
still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For
example, the terms "approximately," "about," and "substantially"
may refer to an amount that is within less than 5% of, within less
than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of
a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any
directions or reference frames in the preceding description are
merely relative directions or movements. For example, any
references to "up" and "down" or "above" or "below" are merely
descriptive of the relative position or movement of the related
elements.
[0204] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or characteristics. The
described embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not
restrictive. The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated
by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description.
Changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of
the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
* * * * *