Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
  • A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
  • A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
  • A63B21/154—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies
  • A63B21/156—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies the position of the pulleys being variable, e.g. for different exercises
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
  • A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
  • A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
  • A63B21/4033—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms
  • A63B21/4035—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms for operation by hand
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
  • A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
  • A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
  • A63B21/4043—Free movement, i.e. the only restriction coming from the resistance
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
  • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
  • A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
  • A63B24/0062—Monitoring athletic performances, e.g. for determining the work of a user on an exercise apparatus, the completed jogging or cycling distance
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
  • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
  • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
  • A63B2024/0093—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load the load of the exercise apparatus being controlled by performance parameters, e.g. distance or speed
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
  • A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
  • A63B21/078—Devices for bench press exercises, e.g. supports, guiding means
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
  • A63B2220/10—Positions
  • A63B2220/16—Angular positions
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
  • A63B2220/30—Speed
  • A63B2220/31—Relative speed
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
  • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
  • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
  • A63B2220/50—Force related parameters
  • A63B2220/51—Force
  • A63B2220/52—Weight, e.g. weight distribution

Definitions

• the present invention relates to a device for applying a load to an exercise equipment, a system comprising the device and exercise equipment as well as to a method for operating the device of the invention.
• Exercise equipment in particular exercise equipment for exercise physical strength is known in the art.
• One exemplary example is a barbell.
• Barbells typically comprise a long bar with weights attached to both ends of the bar. Such barbells can be used in different training activities, which usually involve lifting them up to a certain extent.
• Classical barbells without any further technical adaptations provide the same load profile during lifting and bringing them down again. This load profile is essentially solely determined by the weight of the barbell.
• a dynamic load profile essentially designates any alteration of the load exerted to a user during an exercise.
• Such dynamic load profiles have shown to improve effectiveness of training and to specifically target certain muscle areas.
• a further object of the present invention may be the provision of a portable device for applying a load that can be attached to existing exercise equipment.
• a device of the present invention may comprise a driving means, a control means, an attachment means, and a connection means.
• the driving means may be adapted to exert a certain force to an exercise equipment via the connection means.
• the connection means may be attached to the exercise equipment using an attachment means, which attachment means may be embodied in any suitable way for an exercise equipment.
• the attachment means may be a hook or the like, optionally equipped with a securing means in order to prevent unintentional disconnection of the device and the barbell.
• the driving means may be controlled by a control means.
• the control means may for example be embodied as microcontroller, computer or any other suitable control device.
• the control means may for example be an electronic control unit.
• the device may comprise a load sensor in order to measure the load applied to the exercise equipment by the driving means.
• the load sensor may be connected to the control means and optionally a closed-loop control of the driving means is provided based on the load measured by the load sensor.
• the load sensor may be a strain gauge attached to a section of the connection means.
• the load sensor may as well be a non-physical installation.
• the load sensor may for example be a soft sensor, measuring parameters of the driving means suitable for determination of the load.
• the load sensor may be any means suitable for measuring the load applied to an exercise device.
• the load sensor may also be adjusted to measure the load indirectly, for example by means of the torque applied by the driving means.
• the device of the invention may comprise two separate driving means and two separate connection means. This is in particular suitable when the exercise equipment is a barbell.
• the connection means can be connected to two sides of the exercise equipment. If two connection means are provided, it is preferred that two attachment means are provided as well.
• the device comprises more than one driving means and more than one connection means, only one control device may be provided. Alternatively, also more than one control device may be provided.
• the first driving means may be provided in a first load unit and the second driving means may be provided in a second load unit.
• the load units may be separate building parts or units without mechanical connection. This makes transportation of the device easier, as no bulky support structures have to be provided.
• the load units may have a weight that is high enough that the units are not lifted up during the exercise.
• each load unit may have a weight of more than 50 kg, optionally of more than 100 kg.
• the load units may comprise weight elements to provide the required weight.
• the load units may be provided with a handle.
• the load units may also be provided with rollers and/or wheels. These features will allow easier transport of the device of the present invention, which is particularly useful in cases where the device has a high weight.
• the load units may also be provided with fastening means, such as openings for bolts or screws, so that the load units may be fastened to a surface.
• the load units may also be connected to each other using a fixing element.
• the fixing element may provide a mechanical connection between the load units, such that the relative position of the load units to each other is stable.
• the fixing element may be detachable from the load units, so portability of the device is increased.
• the fixing element may be a base plate, which may be adapted for a user to stand on. This way, a self-supplying stabilization may be provided and no heavy weight elements will be required. A weight element or a part of the exercise equipment may also be placed on the base plate for stabilization.
• the device may comprise data transfer means to establish a communication between the units.
• the data transfer means may be based on any suitable basis, preferably the data transfer means is based on a wireless data transfer protocol. Alternatively, the data transfer means may also be provided by a cable connection.
• connection means may be provided as an essentially non-flexible elongate part, such as a rope, a band, a wire or the like.
• connection means is at least partly elastic.
• connection means may comprise an elastic element. The elasticity helps to improve the natural feel of the exercise.
• the elastic element may be embodied as a rubber element and/or as a spring element.
• the driving means may comprise a guide rail and a trolley which is guided on the guide rail.
• the exercise equipment is always at a certain position in relation to the user.
• the exercise equipment is a barbell used in a bench press exercise, i.e., the user is lying on their back pushing the barbell up, it is desirable if the load vector is always directed at an essentially 90° angle towards the ground. This should apply even if the user alters their position.
• the trolley may be moved along the guide rail.
• a trolley drive may be provided, which is controlled for example by the control means.
• a tilt sensor may be provided, possibly in the form of a gyroscope, which tilt sensor is connected to the control means.
• the control means may adjust the position of the trolley based on the data received from the tilt sensor.
• the tilt sensor may be placed on the attachment means, on the connection means or at any other position suitable for measuring the tilt.
• control means in connection with the trolley drive may be adapted to select any suitable or desired tilt. Also tilt values differing from 90° may be desirable for special exercise purposes.
• the trolley may be freely sliding on the slide rail, which may provide the trolley to be self-adjusting.
• the trolley may also be fixable in a certain position relative to the guide rail.
• fixing means may be provided.
• the fixing means may comprise a number of bores or holes along the guide rail with a corresponding bolt for mechanical fixation of the trolley.
• connection means may be guided from the driving means to the trolley and further to the attachment means.
• Guide elements may be provided to guide the connection means into the desired directions.
• connection means for alternating the free length of the connection means may be provided.
• the connection means can be rolled onto a drive shaft, such that the free length is reduced.
• the free length can be increased when the connection means in rolled off from the drive shaft.
• Other means for alternating the free length of the connection means are possible.
• the free length determines the maximum distance between the exercise equipment and the device. During an exercise, reduction of the free length will usually result in an increased force.
• the free length may be measured using a length sensor.
• the present invention may further relate to a system and/or an arrangement comprising a device according to the invention and an exercise equipment.
• the exercise equipment may be a barbell.
• the present invention further relates to a method for operating a device of the invention.
• the present invention also relates to a method for operating a system and/or an arrangement of the invention.
• the method generally may comprise a step of adjusting the load exerted to an exercise equipment.
• the load may be adjusted in any suitable way.
• the exerted load is based on a dynamic load profile.
• a dynamic load profile may refer to a load profile in which the load is dependent upon the position of an exercise equipment during an exercise cycle.
• the exercise equipment is a barbell
• no load may be applied when the user lifts the barbell up, but an additional load may be applied when the user lowers the barbell again.
• the method may comprise several steps.
• a first step may comprise moving the exercise equipment to a first use position.
• the first use position may for example be the lowest position of an exercise cycle.
• a second step may comprise moving the exercise equipment from the first use position to a second use position.
• the second use position may for example be the position where the user has fully lifted a barbell, i.e., where the arms are essentially straight.
• the first use position also may be the position where the user has fully lifted a barbell
• the second use position may be the position where the user has fully lowered a barbell.
• the distance the exercise equipment has travelled between the first and second use positions may be determined in the method of the present invention.
• the travel distance may for example be determined by means of the length sensor.
• the travel distance may also be determined by means of any other sensor, for example by an optical sensor.
• the travel distance of the exercise equipment may particularly be determined continuously over the method of the present invention.
• first use position and the second use position may be determined by means of a length sensor.
• the same length sensor can be used for determining the travel distance.
• the exercise equipment may be again moved to the first use position.
• the load can be applied to the exercise equipment in any of the above steps.
• a suitable alteration of the applied load may increase training efficiency.
• Moving the exercise equipment from a first use position to a second use position and back to a first use position may be referred to as an exercise cycle.
• the first, second and third steps of the inventive method may be repeated multiple times, e.g., more than 2, 3, 4, or 5 times, in order to make up an exercise set, wherein the exercise set particularly comprises multiple exercise cycles.
• the load applied to the exercise equipment over an exercise cycle may be inconstant.
• the load applied to the exercise equipment during one of the above-described steps or the method may be inconstant.
• the load applied to the exercise equipment during the third step of the method may be inconstant.
• Load may be applied to the exercise equipment in particular when the exercise equipment is moved from the second use position to the first use position and/or from the first use position to the second use position.
• the load applied to the exercise equipment may vary over the travel distance of the equipment.
• the present invention may relate to different modes of operation of the method and/or the device.
• the method of the present invention may comprise
• load may be applied when the exercise equipment is moved from the first use position to the second use position.
• the applied load may be constant from the first use position to the second use position.
• the applied load may also increase from the first use position to the second use position as a function of the travel distance.
• the applied load may also decrease from the first use position to the second use position as a function of the travel distance.
• the applied load may also follow other regimes between the first use position and the second use position, such as increase from the first use position to a maximum position between the first use position and the second use position and then decrease from the maximum position to the second use position.
• the additional load applied by the driving means may be 0 kg in the first use position with a linear increase over the travel distance up to approx. 20 kg in the second use position.
• load may be applied when the exercise equipment is moved from the second use position to the first use position.
• the applied load may be constant from the second use position to the first use position.
• the applied load may also increase from the second use position to the first use position as a function of the travel distance.
• the applied load may also decrease from the second use position to the first use position as a function of the travel distance.
• the additional load applied by the driving means may be approx. 40 kg in the second use position with a linear decrease or as a constant load over the travel distance to 0 kg in the first use position. This may enable an eccentric training, leading to an optimized muscle loading for increased training efficiency.
• load may be applied by the driving means on at least one discrete stop position between the first use position and the second use position. This can be performed when moving from the first use position to the second use position and/or when moving from the second use position to the first use position. In particular, load can be applied on 1 , 2, 3, 4, or 5 stop positions along the travel distance.
• the stop positions may be determined manually or automatically prior to the actual exercise, for example in a calibration or setting step.
• the applied load may be held at the stop positions for a certain amount of time, for example between 1 and 10 seconds.
• load may be applied when the exercise equipment is moved from the second use position to the first use position and/or from the second use position to the first use position.
• a travel speed may be determined by the device of the present invention.
• the applied load or load profile may be adapted to the travel speed.
• the applied load or load profile may be adapted to the difference of travel speed within one and/or between two or more exercise cycles.
• the load may be decreased as the travel speed reduces significantly over a defined travel distance in the course of multiple subsequent exercised or exercise cycles. This way, muscular hypertrophy can be increased.
• the method may further comprise a calibration procedure.
• the first to third of the above-described steps may be repeated multiple times, in order to determine the correct travel distance, as well as the first use position and the second use position. Additionally, a resting position differing from the first and second use positions may be determined. A mean value may be calculated from different measurements. Determination of the travelling distance as well as of the use positions is desirable as it can differ between users, for example due to different body height or arm length. The travel distance may also depend on the certain exercise that is executed by a user.
• the travel speed and/or the travel distance data may be logged when the user exercises at maximal or submaximal loads without and/or little load applied from the driving means.
• the applied load or load profile may be inconstant over the travel distance according to the previous logged data to strengthen the weak points in a movement.
• the travelling distance as well as the first and second use positions may also be measured and adjusted during a normal exercise cycle, for example to account for positional changes of the user between different sets of an exercise.
• the invention optionally relates to a device for applying a load to an exercise equipment .
• the device optionally comprises driving means, control means adapted to control the driving means, attachment means adapted to attach the device to the exercise equipment, and connection means connecting the driving means to the attachment means.
• the device comprises a load sensor, wherein the load sensor is adapted to measure the load applied to the exercise equipment by the driving means, and wherein the load sensor is connected to the control means.
• the device comprises two driving means, two connection means, and optionally two attachment means.
• a first driving means is provided in a first load unit, and that a second driving means is provided in a second load unit, wherein the first load unit and the second load unit are separate from each other.
• each load unit has a weight of more than 40 kg, preferably of more than 100 kg, and/or that each load unit is provided with fastening means for fastening the drive element to a surface.
• each connection means is provided with a load sensor.
• the first and second load units each comprise a data transfer unit, adapted to send and/or receive data to/from the data transfer unit of the other load unit.
• the data transfer units are operable by means of a wireless data transfer protocol or that data transfer units are connected by means of a wired connection.
• the first load unit and the second load unit are mechanically connected to each other by means of a fixing element.
• the fixing element is embodied in the form of a base plate, in particular adapted for a user to stand on.
• each load unit comprises at least one rolling element, particularly a wheel, and at least one grip element, particularly a handle.
• connection means comprises an elastic element, in particular a rubber element, or a spring element.
• the driving means comprises a guide rail and a trolley movable along the guide rail, wherein the connection means is guided from the driving means to the attachment means via the trolley.
• the trolley comprises a trolley drive, wherein the trolley drive is operable by the control means.
• the trolley is freely movable along the guide rail.
• the trolley is fixable along the guide rail by fastening means.
• the device comprises a tilt sensor adapted to determine the tilt of the attachment means, wherein the tilt sensor is connected to the control means.
• the control means is adapted to control the position of the trolley via the trolley drive based on the data received from the tilt sensor.
• the driving means is adapted to adjust the free length of the connection means by winding the connection means over a drive shaft and/or by unwinding the connection means from the drive shaft.
• the device comprises at least one guide means for guiding the connection means, wherein the guide means preferably is a guide roller.
• the device comprises a length sensor adapted to measure a free length of the connection means.
• the length sensor is adapted for measurement of the free length of the connection means by one or more of the following parameters: diameter of a rope, diameter of a drive shaft, steps and/or rotations of the driving means.
• the length sensor is a resistive mechanical length sensor, an optical sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, a torque sensor, or a height sensor.
• the load sensor and the length sensor are provided in one sensor element.
• the invention may further relate to a system comprising a device of the invention and an exercise equipment.
• the exercise equipment may be selected from one or more of the following: barbell; harness, such as hip belt, upper body belt, foot belt, wrist belt; an exercise device, such as a plate loaded machine and/or any kind of cable pulley type machine.
• the invention may further relate to a method of operating a device, wherein the method optionally comprises the following steps:
• the exercise cycle comprises the following steps:
• the first use position, the second use position and the travel distance of the exercise equipment between the first use position and the second use position may be determined.
• a resting position of the exercise equipment is determined.
• the resting position may for example be a position where the exercise equipment is not in use.
• the exercise cycle further comprises the following step: moving the exercise equipment over the travel distance back to a first use position.
• load is applied to the exercise equipment by the driving means when moving the exercise equipment from the first use position to the second use position and/or that load is applied to the exercise equipment by the driving means when moving the exercise equipment from the second use position to the first use position.
• the load applied over the course of the exercise cycle is inconstant.
• the applied load is constant or is constantly decreasing over the travel distance from the second use position to the first use position.
• the applied load is constantly increasing over the travel distance from the second use position to the first use position.
• the applied load has one or more maximum values over the travel distance between the second use position and the first use position.
• load is only applied over parts of the travel distance.
• the method comprises a calibration step, wherein in the calibration step the first use position, the second use position and the travel distance are determined particularly by means of free length and/or travel speed over time.
• the exercise equipment in the calibration step is moved from the first use position to the second use position and back to the first use position one time multiple times without applying load to the exercise equipment, wherein a mean value is calculated from the measured travel distances, the first use position and the second use position.
• connection means of the device is tensioned.
• the exercise equipment is moved from the first use position to the second use position and back to the first use position at least five times.
• the method comprises a calibration procedure in which travel speed and travel distance are measured and logged when the user exercises at maximal or submaximal loads.
• the travel distance, the first use position, the second use position, and optionally the resting position is measured using a length sensor of the device.
• the travel speed from the first use position to the second use position and/or from the second use position to the first use position is determined.
• the applied load is adjusted based on the travel speed of the exercise equipment and/or based on anthropometric measurements of the user, parameters of the exercise itself and/or the free length of the connection means.
• the term “applied load” and any derivatives thereof refer to a load that is additionally applied to an exercise equipment by means of a device of the present invention.
• two motor control units are provided to control the resistance and therefore the load which pulls the barbell to the ground.
• An athlete may stand under the barbell, performing for example squats as an exercise.
• the ropes wrap around the shafts like a cable winch and tension is supplied to the resistance bands. Therefore a load is pulling, through the load cells, which are attached to the collars on to the barbell.
• the outcome is a resistance which can be dynamically controlled through the electronic control unit at every phase of the movement with any load at any time and at any time and at any point.
• the power and the size of the motor and the chopper may determine the maximum load which can be generated.
• the motor control units itself can be bolted to the ground or weighted so that the load can be applied well to the barbell.
• the housing and the mechanics could be executed with heavy material, e.g., thick steel plates or lead, or the mechanics could have holding-fixtures to put standard gym weight plates on.
• the resistance rubber bands are not necessary, but could dampen the system. If only a rope, or instead of a rope a wire rope, would be used there may be not the same feeling for the user as with a damping element. It is also possible to attach only resistance rubber bands or only expander cable/ropes, which has the same qualities as the rubber bands, without any ropes. Furthermore tension springs can also be used to supply constant tension instead of the rubber bands, but they have to be attached with some rope to function properly.
• a wire rope is attached to the load cell.
• This wire rope is spring loaded and serves the length sensor to determine the exact position of the barbell which is preferable for further functions of the device.
• the resistive mechanical length sensor with a wire rope
• other length or positional sensors may be employed.
• the barbell position could be measured through optical, capacitive or inductive sensors.
• any height sensor could be used. Knowing the exact position of the barbell is beneficial for smooth and consistent control.
• an accelerometer can be used to measure barbell position.
• a torque sensor attached to the motor could be used to calculate the position of the barbell through rope, shaft diameter and rotations of the shaft. The sensor could also calculate the applied downforce, instead of using a load cell, by means of the applied torque. Flowever, it would not be providing that accurate data as the load cell itself does.
• Top, bottom and resting position should be known to load the barbell at the right time and to create dynamically loaded curves. These positions are also preferably known to calculate and measure optimized strength curves and other programs.
• the top, bottom and resting position can be detected through a calibration process, which is beneficial so that the system can act very accurate and fast to apply tension to the barbell.
• a first calibration process may follow these steps.
• the calibration step is preferably carried out before training, for each user separately, and can be seen as a warm up:
• the system is attached to the barbell (in a resting position).
• the second calibration (in -movement calibration) process follows these steps and runs always during working sets.
• each set is calibrated before or within first repetition (depending which exercise is executed. Squats normally have a starting position at the top.
• Deadlifts has a starting position at bottom). This is done through barbell speed movement, length and timing.
• the bottom position is automatically calculated from the parameter (length between top and bottom position) of the first calibration process.
• the in-movement calibration is beneficial so that if a user does not have the same starting position as in calibration process the system still works accurate and fast. For example, in calibration process the user had a closer starting position to the rack (for example squats) as in the first working set. Then the top and bottom positions would be different and the system would not work perfectly.
• top and bottom position always during movement (first rep, or several reps).
• first rep or several reps.
• the only problem would be that the system cannot act as fast and accurate as with first and second calibration process together because the positions are determined via barbell speed, direction and timing. It could be also possible to only determine the positions via first calibration process, but then the user always has to take up the same position as in calibration process.
• a gyroscope sensor could also be used to measure the tilt of the load cell, to control an electromechanical mechanism (so that the shaft, where the rope is mounted can be moved in linear (x,y axis) position), so that the barbell is always loaded vertically. This would be preventing shear forces, so that the movement would be as natural as without the system.
• electromechanical mechanism so that the shaft, where the rope is mounted can be moved in linear (x,y axis) position
• the barbell is always loaded vertically. This would be preventing shear forces, so that the movement would be as natural as without the system.
• There are also pure mechanically ways to retain such a freely movable trolley Sometimes it may also be needed that the force, which is applied to the barbell, is not vertical but with an angle that does not equal essentially 90° in relation to the ground. For example, for technique training in some exercises like bench pressing or deadlifting, which will engage other needed muscle groups only when there is not a straight vertically downforce.
• the shafts are placed directly under the barbell so that there are essentially no shear forces, which are indeed dependent on how long the shafts are and how close the barbell stays within the shaft framing.
• the system in of this embodiment may be a setup with a motor driven sliding carriage to take care of vertical down force in the movement.
• the load cells may be attached via cable to the electronic control unit and serve as an input.
• Another input for the electronic control unit may be the length sensor which provides data for the position of the barbell as well as acceleration, speed and length of the movement.
• the electronic control unit then may directly be connected to the two power output stages, so that the engines can be controlled properly.
• One electronic control unit may control two motors. To do that the two motor control units are communicating. It also would be possible to have two standalone motor control units whereupon a second length sensor must not be used in each, because the two units could communicate wirelessly. A tethered connection between the two motor control units may also be established. A wireless communication is preferable so that cable break could not play a possible cause for system failure.
• a touchscreen or/and in addition a pushbutton encoder or pushbutton or switch may be provided.
• a pushbutton encoder or pushbutton or switch may be provided.
• the switch is used to turn on the whole system, so that the control unit and the power output stages are supplied with energy.
• a clutch and flanged bearings may be provided.
• the left motor control unit is divided in into one left drive unit and one left control unit, which both have different housings.
• the sliding carriage In the middle there may be a sliding carriage, for the purpose to have always a vertical down force through a pulley on the barbell. But the sliding carriage can be also adjusted to fixed positions, if shear forces are favored for the movement to engage specific muscle groups.
• the height of the sliding carriage and pulley is so low that deadlifts with standard Olympic plates can be done from the floor, i.e., tension from the invention can be applied from the floor.
• the components in the two housings are connected electrically via cable through the hollow section of the carriage profile.
• the load cell sensor left is now mounted into the control unit left where the rope left is attached to it to measure force.
• the motor left applies tension to the pulley, which is executed as a double purchase pulley, and therefore to the load cell through the rope.
• the length sensor detects the position of the barbell through the wire rope which is mounted on to the pulley and gives exact position.
• the control unit is also mounted into the control unit left. The setup of the system on the right side is the same as on left side but only without the length sensor (but it could be also with a second length sensor to provide more accurate data or for safety purpose).
• control units there may be two control units, one in the left control unit and the other one in the right control unit; they will be communicating together via wireless or tethered connection.
• the drive unit There may be three components on each side which are mechanically connected: the drive unit, the control unit, and the sliding carriage.
• the installation would be time intensive and it would not be easily possible to change the place, independently if it is bolted or not.
• all components mentioned above could be mounted together on one plate with one housing. It may be provided as a big long box with a slot on the top side (for the cable output from the sliding carriage), a handle on the right side, and two rollers on the left side. Now it would be portable and easy to move. With enough weight from the housing there would no need to bolt it to the ground and it could be easily moved with the handle and the rollers.
• the device could be portable like a weight bench in commercial gyms.
• the system cannot only be used in barbell exercising or training machines but also in bodyweight exercises to provide later described programs. This is done by using a hip belt, upper body belt, foot belt, wrist belt or any other harness which are equipped with a carabiner where the invention can be attached on.
• the system can create a dynamic load in weighted pull ups where a hip belt is used. Also squats with hip belt can be an option, where the athlete is elevated over the motor control unit.
• There are a wide variety of exercising possibilities all in which any belts or harness where the system can be attached to) where later described programs could play an important role.
• the system can be used in sports specific movement, as for sprinting where the invention applies dynamic load throughout the distance (depends on how long the wire rope or rope is). Even in climbing sport the system could provide dynamic load to raise training results, where it is attached to the climbing harness. It would also be possible to attach the system to a sled to provide dynamic load.
• the device could be an important training tool for sports like bobsledding. It can also be used to support sports specific training for track cyclists to for example create dynamic load for sprint starting.
• the system can be attached to the cyclist or to the bicycle to apply the forces.
• the user/athlete can be supported in the eccentric phase where resistance can be loaded dynamically from the unit in the back to reduce for example the upper body weight (so make this phase easier). More than the upper body weight in the concentric phase may be required when the unit in the front is active and tries to pull the athlete to the ground (to make this phase more difficult).
• every barbell exercise can be controlled with the prescribed invention to get dynamic resistance possibilities.
• the device of the invention cannot only be attached to barbells, but also on every plate loaded machine. It even can be attached to cable pulleys or act as a cable pulley to provide the benefit of dynamic resistance. It is like to put a normal weight plate on, but with the benefit of a dynamic load resistance.
• the barbell is only exerted with an additional load in the eccentric movement of the exercise. So, the user has more (adjustable via Display and/or buttons) resistance during eccentric than in the concentric phase of the movement.
• the advantages of eccentric accentuated training are investigated well and are not described further.
• the additional load in the eccentric phase can be constant as well as variable (from zero to maximum) at any point or at any time and for any time in the movement, for example, to load the muscles in an optimized way. How strong a muscle is, depends among other factors on the muscle length. Therefore, the strength of the muscle depends on the position of the barbell, by what the load applied to the barbell should be changed during the movement to get maximum power output of the muscles.
• the invention may produce a certain load at a certain point for a certain time in the movement to create a maximum isometric contraction of the muscles.
• the user can adjust as many points in the movement as he wants where a certain load should be applied for a certain time (possibly adjustable via display). It may be tuned through a calibration process, where the values can be regulated automatically or manually.
• a maximum isometric contraction leads to a better activation of the motor units through the central nervous system.
• the advantage of the present invention is that the movement can go on after the time of the isometric hold is over, and therefore a more functional movement is provided which leads to better neural and structural adaptions. It is for example usable for “sticking point” problems in an exercise.
• Optimized strength curve In a natural movement such as the squat with a regular barbell and regular weight plates the muscles are not optimally loaded, as they have more potential in different positions.
• the device of the invention can provide optimal loading in each movement direction (concentric and eccentric) by calculating the optimal forces throughout the range of motion, particularly by means of the length sensor comes into play, and normalized values such as exercise and specific muscles.
• the range of motion is known via a calibration process, where the user performs several proper repetitions. If the ECU knows the range of motion it also required parameters like which exercise is performed (and how it is performed, like narrow stand or wide stand) and how much weight is put on the barbell.
• parameters like body length can be chosen to yield best results. There may also be an option where the user can choose the strength curve (standard, bottom loaded, top loaded etc.). If all parameters are adjusted appropriately the barbell is dynamically and automatically loaded during movement.
• Optimized hypertrophy To maximize hypertrophy stimulus there are lots of intensity techniques in world of strength training and bodybuilding. For example, drop sets are used to get more reps out of one set, which stimulates maximum hypertrophy by decreasing weight after the initial set.
• the solution according to the present invention is to monitor the bar speed, particularly via length sensor calculation or acceleration sensor. If the bar speed drops to a certain point for a certain time the invention can reduce the load individually and dynamically to provide the most stimulus for hypertrophy ever felt. It could also be possible to regulate it manually via remote control.
• Optimized exercise training for individuals This function is almost the same as the above described optimized strength curve. The difference here is that the curve is calculated in a calibration process for each athlete individually by detecting differences in bar speed. To do that the calibration is indeed different than before, because the user has to do a maximal working set. So, the device of the present invention determines at each barbell position each weakness or strength (at maximal working sets) and therefore the resistance can be changed at any time for any time dynamically to get maximum results, which would not be possible with any other system in free weight exercises.
• Optimized eccentric stretch It is known that eccentric loaded stretching is an effective method to lengthen a muscle well. With regular training equipment it is not possible to only overload the eccentric phase.
• the invention provides such a stretching program and may adjust each repetition so that the muscle is loaded always in maximum length.
• the system determines when to switch off the eccentric load via barbell speed and/or time adjustments via display.
• Manual dynamic load The user can adjust the load individually by entering the parameter for the specific time and/or for the specific range (dependent on length sensor) at any point in the movement. For example, the user wants only to overload the upper portion of the lift. Then the user can adjust the load, the phase (so eccentric or concentric or both) and the range of motion (100% of ROM, 50% of ROM, 10% ROM etc.) in which the load should be present. He can adjust the parameters for each % of the ROM individually. When he has entered all the parameters, he gets the dynamic loaded curve in training as he adjusted it.
• Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a device according to the present invention
• Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of the first embodiment of a device according to the present invention
• Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of a device according to the present invention.
• Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of a device according to the present invention.
• FIG. 1 shows exercise equipment 1 , driving means 2, first driving means 2’, second driving means 2”, control means 3, attachment means 4, connection means 5, load sensor 6, first load unit 7’, second load unit 7”, data transfer unit 8, elastic element 9, guide rail 10, trolley 11 , trolley drive 12, tilt sensor 13, free length 14, drive shaft 15, guide means 16, length sensor 17, wire rope 18, wheel 19, handle 20, holding rack 21 , bench 22, weight element 23, travel distance 24.
• Figs. 1 and 2 which are described together, show schematic views of a first embodiment of a device according to the present invention.
• the device is equipped with a barbell as exercise equipment 1.
• the device comprises two separate load units 7’, 7”.
• Each of the load units 7’, 7” is equipped with a separate driving means 2’, 2”, wherein each driving means is a motor which is adapted to apply a certain load to the exercise equipment 1.
• the connection between the driving means 2’, 2” to the exercise equipment 1 is achieved using connection means 5.
• the connection means comprise a rope, having essentially non-elastic properties, as well as an elastic element 9 made of rubber material.
• the elastic element 9 provides a more realistic feel when a person is using the device of the invention. In other embodiments, the elastic element 9 may not be provided.
• connection means 5 is connected to a position near the ends of the barbell by an attachment means 4, which may be a hook connection or any other suitable, preferably detachable, connection.
• a load sensor 6 is placed on each connection means 5 in order to measure the load that is applied to the exercise equipment 1.
• the load sensors 6 are communicating with a control means 3.
• the load sensors 6 are resistance strain gauges.
• the device further comprises a length sensor 17.
• the length sensor 17 is connected to a connection means 5 in the area of a load sensor 6 by means of a spring loaded wire rope.
• the free length 14 is derived from the length sensor 17.
• the spring loaded wire rope will shorten with a lower free length 14.
• the length sensor may operate in other way suitable to determine the free length of the connection means 5, for example through optical, inductive, or capacitive sensors.
• the free length 14 in particular designates the available length of the connection means 5 for connection of the exercise equipment 1 with the device of the invention.
• the free length 14 usually is less than the total length of the connection means 5 as part of the connection means may be secured in the device of the present invention, such as in the present invention by means of a drive shaft 15.
• connection means 5 is attached to a trolley 11 , which can particularly be seen in Fig. 2.
• Each load unit 7’, 7” further comprises a data transfer unit 8 operating by means of a wireless data transfer protocol, such that the load units 7’, 7” may communicate without being in mechanical connection with each other. This makes transport and adaption to different exercise situations of the device easier.
• a tethered connection between the load units 7’, 7” may be provided.
• each of the load units 7’, 7” in this embodiment has a weight of approx. 40-50 kg.
• wheels 19 and a handle 20 are provided.
• Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of a device according to the present invention.
• the exercise equipment 1 is also a barbell.
• the device comprises driving means 2, connection means 5, attachment means 4, and control means 3. These elements operate essentially the same way as described for the first embodiment.
• the driving means 2 is provided on the left side, which is separated from the right side where the control means 3, the load sensor 6 and the length sensor 17 are located. This arrangement may reduce noises.
• connection means 5 in this embodiment is a rope which is guided by guide means 16.
• the device is additionally equipped with a trolley 11 , which is freely movable along the guide rail 10 so that the connection means 5 between the trolley 11 and the exercise equipment 1 is in an essentially vertical position. Flowever, depending on the particular exercise, also other positions may be desirable. For that the trolley may be fixed in certain positions along the guide rail 10 via fixing means.
• the trolley drive 12 is in connection with the control means 3.
• the trolley drive 12 may adjust the position of the trolley 11 according to the measurement of the tilt sensor 13, which in this embodiment is a gyroscope sensor.
• the tilt sensor is as well communicating with the control means 3.
• Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of a device according to the present invention. This embodiment will particularly be used to describe the methods of the present invention.
• the third embodiment may for example employ a device as shown in detail in Figs. 1 and 2. Therefore, details of the device will not be described in connection with this third embodiment.
• the exercise equipment 1 is again a barbell equipped with weight elements 23.
• the total weight of the barbell is approx. 80 kg.
• the barbell In a resting position (not shown), the barbell may be placed and securely held on a holding rack 21.
• a user will lie on their back on a bench 22.
• the user In order to start an exercise, the user will remove the barbell from the holding rack 21 to bring the barbell into a second use position, where the user's arms are essentially straight.
• the second use position is depicted with solid lines. Subsequently, the user will lower the barbell into a first use position.
• the first use position of the exercise equipment is depicted with dashed lines.
• the user will bring back the barbell up into the second use position, or a position which substantially corresponds to the second use position. Lowering the barbell down from second to first use position and again up to the second use position may be referred to as an exercise cycle.
• An exercise cycle may be repeated several times. After completing the desired number of exercise cycles, the barbell may again be placed in the holding rack 21.
• a resting position of the exercise equipment 1 may be referred to as a position in which the barbell is held in the holding rack 21.
• the method of the present invention comprises a calibration step.
• the calibration step the user performs a number of exercise cycles without load or with only little load sufficiently to tension the rope being exerted to the exercise equipment 1 by the driving means 2. This particularly means that in the calibration step, the load the user feels is only determined by the weight of the barbell.
• the travel distance 24 of the exercise equipment 1 between the first and second use positions is determined, as well as first use, second use position and resting position. The travel distance 24 particularly equals the difference of the free length 14 of the connection means 5 in the first and second use positions.
• five exercise cycles can be performed, wherein the travel distance 24 is determined for every exercise cycle. Subsequently, a mean value of multiple travel distances 24 may be calculated such that variations can be compensated for.
• the exercise step in particular comprises applying an additional load to the exercise equipment 1 by the driving means 2.
• the load may be applied to the exercise equipment 1 during any suitable time of one or more exercise cycles.
• load can be applied when the user lifts the barbell from the first use position to the second use position, i.e. during concentric movement.
• Load can also be applied when the user lowers the barbell from the second use position to the first use position, i.e. during eccentric movement.
• the applied load may be constant or variable over one exercise cycle.
• an additional load of approx. 20 kg is applied to the barbell during the eccentric portion of the exercise cycle. This means that when lifting the barbell, it weighs approx. 80 kg, without any additional load. When lowering the barbell, it weighs approx. 100 kg.
• the control means 3 of the device may forward information an output means, for example a display, in order to guide the user through the steps of the method of the invention.
• the output means may comprise visual, acoustic, and/or tactile output means.
• an input means may be provided such that the user can select different exercise modes or that adjustments can be performed.

Landscapes

• Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
• Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
• Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
• Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
• Biophysics (AREA)
• Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=72744513

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (3)

Families Citing this family (4)

Family Cites Families (4)

• 2020
  • 2020-09-30 EP EP20785902.6A patent/EP4182042A1/de active Pending
  • 2020-09-30 US US18/547,492 patent/US20240009522A1/en active Pending
  • 2020-09-30 WO PCT/AT2020/060349 patent/WO2021151127A1/en active Application Filing

Also Published As

Similar Documents

Legal Events