DE102021000159A1 - weight bracelet - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a weight bracelet for use in physical fitness training. In particular, it is about a training bracelet (10) that can be worn on the wrist with a strap (20) and that includes a large number of weights (30), characterized in that the weights (30) have a passage (40) for the strap (20) and can thereby be connected to the carrier tape (20) and the carrier tape (20) can be opened in order to push weights (30) onto the carrier tape (20) or to remove them from the carrier tape (20).

Description

field of invention

The present invention relates to a weight bracelet for use in physical fitness training.

Background of the Invention

The US patent 4,997,183 discloses an exercise machine. This serves to intensify physical training by carrying weights around the ankle. The weights are placed on a wide band, which in turn can be attached to the ankle with a narrow band and Velcro fasteners. A plurality of elongated pockets are provided on the wide band portion. Rod-shaped weights can be inserted into these pockets, weights that are precisely adapted in shape to the shape of the pockets.

That U.S. Patent 5,667,466 discloses other exercise machines with which the body can be trained by weights. These weights can be worn on either the wrist or the ankle. A type of fingerless glove is provided for the wrist, which glove can have a large number of pockets. These pockets can also be opened and closed by zippers. Weights can be placed in the pockets. A gaiter-like holder is provided for the foot, which can have corresponding weight pockets.

The European patent application EP 1 813 314 A1 reveals training weights and ways to use them. The weights themselves are said to be made from a thermoplastic elastomer into which heavy particles are embedded. This allows the material to be given such a high density that it is suitable for weight training. The material can be used in weights of various shapes, including dumbbells, for example. The material can also be used in a type of bangle, so this bangle can be worn around the wrist for weight training. The bangle only sits loosely on the wrist. The material can also be used in a band that attaches to the ankle.

The present invention aims to provide a weight bracelet that avoids the disadvantages of the prior art. It is designed to be easily adjustable and hold weights securely. It should also be able to be efficiently combined with electronic measuring devices and also be well suited for training with weight bracelets on both wrists.

This object is achieved by a training bracelet according to claim 1. Advantageous developments are specified in the dependent claims. The methods according to claims 10 to 13 have the corresponding advantages.

A training bracelet according to the present invention is intended to be worn around the wrist. (This is about the wrist of a human user, which is not specified and is not part of the invention.) Two bracelets can also be worn, one on each wrist, i.e. one on the right and one on the left. Because the wrist is usually smaller than the hand, it is held securely there, even if it is relatively loose around the wrist. The training bracelet includes weights so that movements of the arm occur against additional resistance. In this way, the training bracelet can contribute to physical training.

The training can be done through special exercises, in which essentially the arm is moved. The training can also take place while the training bracelet is worn during other sporting activities, for example when running. A training effect can also result from the fact that the band is worn intermittently or for longer periods of the day without a sports or training program taking place. The exercise bracelet can be used without any instructions, it can be used under the guidance of a sports or fitness trainer. It can also be used under the guidance of a doctor or physical therapist. Doctor, medical or physiotherapeutic guidance is usually not required.

The training bracelet includes a carrier band. This carrier tape can be made of leather or a textile material, for example. A woven carrier tape made of synthetic fibers is particularly suitable. The carrier tape can also consist of a rubber-like material, for example made entirely or predominantly of caoutchouc or silicone. A band with a silicone content of 70 to 100% (by weight), or 80 to 90% has been found to be suitable. The strap should be flexible and conformable.

The band can include a variety of weights. In individual cases, a single weight is sufficient, so that in the context of this description, a weight is also referred to as a "multiple" of weights. Typically, the band includes but two or more weights. It is advisable to use four to eight weights.

The weights have a passage for the band. They can be connected to the tape using this feed-through. This type of connection is a particularly secure connection. As mentioned, weight bracelets are known in which pockets for weights are provided. However, these bags must be specially secured. In principle, a loss of weight from the pocket is also possible while using the weight bracelet. This also applies to weight bracelets that are secured by Velcro or the like. In the present invention, a weight cannot come off the band unless the band is opened.

In the context of the present invention, however, it should be provided that the band can be opened. This can be used to put on and take off the band. The opening also serves to slide weights onto or off the band. The number of weights and thus the total weight of the training bracelet can be adjusted.

In this way, if the band is to be carried with few weights, no unnecessary ballast is taken along. Pockets, possibly also empty pockets, therefore do not have to be provided and then do not contribute to the weight of the belt.

It is particularly useful that the training bracelet can be adjusted over a very wide weight range. In addition, weights of very different sizes and heaviness can easily be connected to the band. The weights can have very different dimensions. They only need to have a passage suitable for the tape. All weights are preferably equipped with a bushing of the same shape and size.

It is advantageous if the training bracelet has a clasp, as a rule this clasp is provided on the carrier band. As an alternative or in addition to a buckle, an intermediate piece can be provided. This adapter is described in more detail below. The carrier tape can be opened if necessary by means of connecting elements for the intermediate piece. It is also conceivable that no locking buckle is provided. A closure that does not allow length adjustment is possible. It is also possible to open the carrier tape only at the connection to an intermediate piece.

Then, for example, it is possible to put the training bracelet on the wrist with a length of the carrier band that is tailored to the wearer. It is also possible to make the carrier tape elastic. According to the invention, however, a device should be provided which ensures that weights can be pushed onto the belt and removed from the belt.

The buckle should have at least one spike. Such a mandrel can be inserted into holes or recesses in another section of the belt. A closure element that also has a buckle is even more advantageous. The buckle typically consists of a shackle with a movable pin. A buckle with two spikes is also advantageous. Advantageously, the buckle can also be provided in the form of a buckle. A loop can be provided in addition to the buckle or clasp. A loop can be made of the strap material, some leather, fabric or silicone, or can also be made of metal.

A training bracelet in which an intermediate piece can be inserted into the carrier band is particularly useful. To insert such an intermediate piece, connecting elements can be provided, for example, on two end pieces of the band. These connecting elements can be the same as one another or different. For example, spring pins have proven themselves as connecting elements, as they are also used in watch straps. It is advantageous if the intermediate piece can be worn in direct contact with the skin. This allows less carrier tape material to be used. Skin contact can also be used for measurements, e.g. of the pulse.

Appropriate connecting elements can also be designed as thickenings. Such thickenings can be accommodated in grooves of an intermediate piece. The grooves can have a drop-shaped cross section, for example. This allows a particularly easy connection and disconnection of the intermediate piece. Connections are preferably used which allow the adapter to be used and removed without the use of tools. The connecting elements can be different, often the same connecting elements are advantageous.

The intermediate piece may be provided in the form of a carrier tape section such that the intermediate piece merely extends the carrier tape. However, the intermediate piece is advantageously made of a different material than the carrier tape and can therefore have additional functions.

The intermediate piece itself can also serve as additional weight. However, it is advantageous if the adapter also offers measurement electronics. For example, the adapter can then be designed as a pedometer. The adapter can also be designed in the form of a fitness watch. Such fitness watches can record the training time, but also distances covered, etc. Furthermore, bodily functions can be measured with an appropriate adapter. For example, a pulse measurement is possible.

An interface that provides users with physical training instructions is also contemplated. These can be specific instructions for physical training with the training bracelet. Appropriate instructions can be stored on a modern fitness watch.

It is expedient if the weights are essentially barrel-shaped. The weight pieces then have an essentially round cross-section and, in a direction perpendicular thereto, an essentially rectangular cross-section. Instead of the round cross section, an elliptical cross section can also be expedient.

Weights which are completely or essentially cuboid are also expedient. They can also have the shape of a rhombohedron. It is advantageous if weight pieces each have an inner weight surface and an outer weight surface, which are arranged in parallel. It is often expedient if the inner surface of the weight is larger than the outer surface of the weight, for example by more than 10, 20 or 30%. This preferably applies to all weights, but at least to one weight.

It is advantageous if the implementation for the carrier bracelet is in the form of a slot. It is particularly advantageous if the passage for the carrier bracelet is arranged centrally between the inner surface of the weight and the outer surface of the weight.

1. a. Anlegen eines Gewichtsarmband mit einem Zwischenstück mit Messelektronik an ein Handgelenk
2. b. Anlegen eines Gewichtsarmband mit einem Zwischenstück ohne Messelektronik oder eines Gewichtsarmbands ohne Zwischenstück an das andere Handgelenk

The present invention also relates to a method of physical training. This should include the following steps:

1. a. Putting a weight bracelet with an adapter with measurement electronics on a wrist
2. b. Place a weight bracelet with an adapter without measurement electronics or a weight bracelet without an adapter on the other wrist

After the procedure, a wrist, either the left wrist or the right wrist, is put on, a weight bracelet with an intermediate piece with measuring electronics. Such an intermediate piece can be a fitness watch. The interface is preferably worn such that it is in skin contact. A weight bracelet is placed on the other wrist, which either has no intermediate piece or in which the intermediate piece is designed without measuring electronics. Such an interface may be a mere mechanical link, such as a block of metal. After this procedure, it is possible to train with weight bracelets on both wrists. However, the weight bracelets differ in that measuring electronics are only provided on one wrist. This is usually sufficient to collect interesting training data.

Alternatively (deviating from the procedure described above), two weight bracelets with measuring electronics could also be worn. This could allow an even more complete or reliable collection of training data. Furthermore, different training data could be recorded for the different sides of the body. However, this option is usually expensive, so that it is sufficient to only provide measurement electronics for a weight bracelet.

However, training bracelets can be used within the scope of the method, which are the same apart from the intermediate piece and the connecting elements for it. The training bracelets can therefore use straps of the same width and made of the same material. Incidentally, the training bracelets can be used with identical weights and weights of the same number. To balance the weight of a connector, the weights on the training bracelet can be balanced without a connector. So you can train with two weight bracelets of exactly the same weight.

It is useful to design an intermediate piece in the form of a fitness watch. It can also come into question that the user is given instructions for physical training, specifically for physical training with the weight bracelets, via the intermediate piece.

1. a. Zurverfügungstellen eines Gewichtsarmbandes mit einem Zwischenstück ohne Messelektronik oder eines einstückigen Gewichtsarmbands
2. b. Zurverfügungstellen eines Gewichtsarmbandes mit Verbindungselementen für ein Zwischenstück

Another method relevant within the scope of the invention is a method for instruction in physical training, which comprises the following steps:

1. a. Provision of a weight bracelet with an intermediate piece without measuring electr ronik or a one-piece weight bracelet
2. b. Providing a weight bracelet with connectors for an interface

As far as the design of the weight bracelet and the spacer is concerned, this method is the same as the method previously described. Again, the interface is preferably worn such that it is in skin contact. It may also be possible to offer such a method without providing an intermediate piece with measurement electronics. In this way, an inexpensive weight bracelet can be made available, which is equipped with suitable measurement electronics according to the preferences and needs of the user.

A weight bracelet without a spacer can also be described as a one-piece weight bracelet.

The methods described are to be understood in relation to the training bracelet or weight bracelet according to the invention. This means that features of the design of the product are to be transferred analogously to the process, and features of the process are to be transferred analogously to features of the product

• 1 zeigt das erfindungsgemäße Trainingsarmband in geschlossenem Zustand in einer perspektivischen Gesamtansicht.
• 2 zeigt eine Seitenansicht und eine Frontalansicht eines Gewichtes für das Trainingsarmband.
• 3 zeigt das Trainingsarmband in perspektivischer Ansicht in geöffnetem Zustand.
• 4 zeigt ein anderes erfindungsgemäßes Trainingsarmband in perspektivischer Ansicht.

Further features, but also advantages of the invention, result from the drawings listed below and the associated description. In the figures and in the associated descriptions, features of the invention are described in combination. However, these features can also be included in other combinations by an object according to the invention. Each disclosed feature is therefore also to be regarded as being disclosed in technically meaningful combinations with other features. Some of the illustrations are slightly simplified and schematic.

• 1 shows the training bracelet according to the invention in the closed state in a perspective overall view.
• 2 12 shows a side view and a front view of a weight for the training bracelet.
• 3 shows the training bracelet in a perspective view in the open state.
• 4 shows another training bracelet according to the invention in a perspective view.

1 shows the training bracelet 10 in a perspective overall view. The training bracelet 10 is shown in closed form. Accordingly, the carrier band 20, which could be placed around a wrist, essentially describes a loop shape. The carrier tape 20 carries three weights 30. The weights 30 are attached to the carrier tape 20 by the carrier tape 20 being guided through the passages 40 provided on the weights. The carrier tape 20 has a closure mechanism with which its width can be adjusted. A pin 50 is provided for this purpose. This pin can be connected to various pin receptacles 60. The pin receptacles are provided as recesses in the carrier tape 20. They are in the form of elongated holes. The shape can of course be adapted to the shape of the pin. For example, instead of a pin, as is usual on a buckle, a locking pin could be provided which engages in a hole.

In order to be able to easily guide the corresponding section of the carrier tape 20 to the spigot and to hold it securely in the spigot, the loop 70 is additionally provided. This loop 70 is designed here as a metal bracket. In terms of its function, it corresponds to the usual textile or leather loops that are used next to a pin clasp, particularly in watch straps.

2 shows a side view of an appropriate weight 30 on the left (view A) and a top view of such a weight 30 to the right (view B). The weight has an outer side 80 and an inner side 90 opposite. The leadthrough 40 for the carrier tape 20 is provided in between. This implementation is slot-shaped. It can therefore accommodate straps of different widths, of course the width of the strap should be approximately matched to the width of the slot (or vice versa). The weight is essentially cuboid in shape but has rounded edges so that the area of the outside of the weight 80 is smaller than the area of the inside of the weight 90.

Other shaped weights are also useful, for example the weight could be barrel shaped. A passage 40 is then to be provided again, which can go through the center of gravity of the weight, but can also run offset from the center of gravity. For example, it can be expedient if the center of gravity of the weights is above the carrier band 20, ie closer to the outside 80 of a weight than to its inside 90 or, as it were, further away from the wrist.

As shown, the outer surface 80 of the weight and the inner surface 90 of the weight are arranged parallel to one another. The implementation runs in the middle between cal weight inner surface and weight outer surface.

3 shows a training bracelet 10 according to the invention in a perspective view in its open state. The carrier tape 20 extends from a first end section 100 to a second end section 102. In the area of the first end section 100, the pin 50 and the loop 70 are provided. A plurality of pin receptacles 60 are provided on the second end section 102 . The carrier tape 20 can be closed by inserting the pin 50 into a corresponding pin receptacle. The length of the carrier tape 20 can be varied by selecting the appropriate pin receptacle 60 . The training bracelet 10 can be removed from the wrist by opening the carrier band 20 and the training bracelet 10 can be reconnected to the wrist by closing the carrier band. At the same time, opening allows weights to be pushed onto the carrier belt 20 or removed from it. This can happen at both end sections of the carrier tape 20 . It is advantageous to slide the weights on or off at the second end section 102 because the pin 50 does not make this process more difficult there.

4 shows another training bracelet 10 according to the invention in a perspective view. A two-part carrier band 20 is provided in this training bracelet. The carrier band 20 consists of a first carrier band part 110 and a second carrier band part 112. It thus corresponds to a two-part watch strap. The first strap part 110 includes the peg 50 and the loop 70. The second strap part 112 includes peg receptacles 60. In general, strap bracelets having a first strap part and a second strap part are useful within the scope of the present invention, in particular because this allows the intermediate piece to easily come into contact with the skin of a porter can be brought.

The intermediate piece 130 can be mounted between the two carrier band parts. This also has the function of connecting the two strap parts to form a whole and allowing the strap 20 to be placed on the wrist. For this purpose, a first connecting element 120 is provided on the first carrier tape part 110 and a second connecting element 122 is provided on the second carrier tape part 112 . The connecting elements can be designed in various forms, mechanical connections are preferably provided. For example, a Velcro connection could be considered. Also expedient is a receptacle for a spring pin and a spring pin, as can be let into corresponding blind holes in a watch. In this sense, the first connecting element 120 and the second connecting element 122 can also be in several parts. However, one-piece connecting elements are quite practical. For example, the connecting elements can be designed as thickenings at the end of the carrier tape parts. Such thickenings can be introduced into corresponding grooves in order to create a mechanical connection.

The intermediate element 130 shown has the form of a fitness watch. The intermediate element therefore has a display 132 . Furthermore, several operating elements 134 are provided. Such operating elements can be buttons or a crown, for example.

The intermediate element also has a first receiving element 136 which can receive the first connecting element. The first receiving element is thus designed as a female element. In this case it is a groove with a narrow slit that can hold a bulge or bead. The corresponding thickening can be introduced laterally into the groove of the first receiving element 136 . Correspondingly, the second receiving element 138 can receive the second connecting element 122, which is also designed as a bead. In general, the connecting elements and the receiving elements need not be different and a female connecting element need not be associated with the intermediate element. The first receiving element 136 therefore generally represents a third connection element which can establish a connection with the first connection element 120 . Accordingly, the second receiving element 138 generally represents a fourth connection element which can be connected to the second connection element 122 .

The training bracelet or weight bracelet can also include an information transmitter that can cooperate with an adapter with measurement electronics. In the methods discussed, both weight bracelets can also have such information transmitters.

The information provider can be a sensor. Transmitted information could relate to the type and number of weights or the state of closure of the weight belt. Such information transmitters can be integrated in one or in all weights. They may also be listed as RFID chips.

Overall, it can be seen how an expedient training wristband that is suitable for mass production and can be used universally can be offered in a cost-effective manner.

Reference List

10

training bracelet

20

carrier tape

30

weights

40

execution

50

cones

60

trunnion mount

70

loop

80

outside of a weight

90

inside of a weight

100

first end section of the training bracelet

102

second end section of the training bracelet

110

first carrier tape part

112

second strap part

120

first connector

122

second connecting element

130

spacer

132

screen

134

controls

136

first recording element

138

second receiving element

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• US4997183 [0002]
• US5667466 [0003]
• EP 1813314 A1 [0004]

Claims (13)

Training bracelet (10) which can be worn on the wrist with a carrier band (20) and which comprises a large number of weights (30), characterized in that the weights (30) have a passage (40) for the carrier band (20) and can thereby be connected to the carrier tape (20) and the carrier tape (20) can be opened in order to push weights (30) onto the carrier tape (20) or to remove them from the carrier tape (20). A training bracelet (10) according to the preceding claim, having a locking buckle. Training bracelet (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which an intermediate piece (130) can be inserted into the carrier band (20). Training wristband (10) according to the preceding claim, in which connecting elements (120, 122) are provided on two end pieces of the carrier band (20) in order to insert the intermediate piece (130). Training bracelet (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the connecting elements (120, 122) are designed as thickenings which can be accommodated in grooves of an intermediate piece (130). A training bracelet (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the weight pieces (30) are generally barrel shaped. Training bracelet (10) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the weight pieces are essentially cuboid in shape. A training bracelet (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the weights (30) each have a weight inner surface (90) and a weight outer surface (80) which are arranged in parallel. Training bracelet (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the passage (40) is slot-shaped and is arranged centrally between the weight inner surface (90) and the weight outer surface (80). Method of physical training, which includes the following steps: a. Putting on a weight bracelet (10) with an intermediate piece (130) with measurement electronics on a wrist b. Applying another weight bracelet (10) with an intermediate piece (130) without measurement electronics or a weight bracelet without an intermediate piece on the other wrist Method of physical training according to the preceding claim, in which the adapter (130) with measuring electronics is designed in the form of a fitness watch. A method of physical training according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interface (130) with measurement electronics provides instructions to the user for physical training with the weight bracelets (10). Method in which the weight bracelet (10) comprises an information transmitter which can cooperate with an intermediate piece (130) with measurement electronics.

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