US20210331024A1

US20210331024A1 - Apparatus and Method for a Quick-Release of Weights

Info

Publication number: US20210331024A1
Application number: US16/857,552
Authority: US
Inventors: Joshua Kwon
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-04-24
Filing date: 2020-04-24
Publication date: 2021-10-28

Abstract

The present embodiment disclose apparatus and methods for allowing users to quick-release of weights from a cylindrical bar with the release of a push-button, said coupled locking pin releases open the latch to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar. Other embodiments include an attachable quick-release of weights apparatus for a cylindrical bar with opposable ends. In yet other embodiments, an object of the claimed invention to provide for an integrated quick-release of weights apparatus for a cylindrical bar with opposable ends.

Description

BACKGROUND

Product Inspiration
In a case study regarding strength training and detraining in different populations, Mario C. Marques, Adam Zajac, Ana Pereira, and Aldo M. Costa collectively reported (2011, p. 7) that many researchers have demonstrated that a specific strength training program can improve maximal strength and the rate of force production, reduce the incidence of muscle-skeletal injury, and contribute to faster injury recovery times, thereby minimizing the number of missed practice sessions or competitions [for athletes]. Simultaneously increasing lean mass and strength for multiple muscle groups, unlike exercises such as the bicep curl which isolates only one muscle group, the bench press and weighted squat have been conventionally incorporated into the workout regimes of nearly all professional sports and still are the most popular exercises among power and weightlifters. Due to the lack of professional training and immense popularity for the use of the bench press and weighted squat, many users, including professional athletes, are prone to severe to lethal injuries as these exercises typically incorporate heavy amounts of weight in order to be effective.
Although the bench press and weighted squat exercises typically require an additional user, or “spotter,” to stand-by in case of an accident, a majority of spotters do not provide their full attention to the user maneuvering the weight during these exercises. Even if the spotter is providing their full attention, many spotters lack the physical strength to individually lift the weight off the struggling user during an accident. In many cases, although the troubled user is eventually freed from the crushing weight, the damage has already been done to the user due to the lack of instantaneous relief. In addition, there are many workout users who perform these exercises alone. As a result, when the user is in trouble, they are either forced to painfully roll the weight off their body or squeeze their body through an opening with less pressure as the rest of their body is being violently crushed. In a few cases, bench press and squat accidents have resulted in users' death.
A case study was done regarding the causes of injuries sustained at fitness facilities presenting to Victorian emergency departments. Shannon E. Gray and Caroline F. Finch both reported (2015, p. 3) that there were at least 2,873 cases associated with injuries that occurred at fitness facilities that specified the exact cause of the injury over the course of 14 years. Out of a total of at least 2,873 cases, there were 807 cases (28.1%) that reported that an injury occurred during exercise at a fitness facility but did not state the specific exercise being participated in at the time of injury. Similarly, there were 210 cases (7.3%) that stated an injury occurred when using, or due to, a piece of fitness equipment but did not further specify the exact type. The cases that did not specify the fitness activity or equipment were removed. Out of the 1,856 fully documented cases associated with injuries that occurred at fitness facilities that specified the exact cause of the injury reported to the Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (VEMD), all free weight activities (general free weights, dumbbells, squats, lunges and deadlifts, bench press, barbell) accounted for 55.2% of all specified activity cases. More specifically, bench press accounted for 2.5%, squats, lunges, or deadlifts accounted for 3.0%, and barbell accounted for 1.5% of all specified activity cases. Amongst the specific causes, overexertion/strenuous/unnatural movements were associated with the highest number of fitness injury-related ED presentations (36.2%) followed by crushed by falling/dropped weights (16.3%).
In reference to [0003], although speculation, it may be assumed that many of the unspecified and incomplete documented injuries may have been skewed towards men. As there is a stigma that men should not reach out for help or be dependent, the data for documented injuries may be highly skewed towards women, explaining the relatively small amount of injuries reported for male-dominated exercises regarding the deadlift, bench press, squat, and barbell. In addition, it is highly possible that many injuries resulting from the deadlift, bench press, squat, and barbell were not documented at all due to the said stigma among men.
The barbell, bench press, and squat equipment were invented during the early 1900s. As of today, over a century later, there has been little to no improvement of these equipment in terms of providing a direct, instantaneous and insurable safety feature for the user, despite the potential dangerous outcomes of these accidents. This static improvement of user's safety for the use of dangerous equipment can be related to the automobile industry and its integration of seatbelts. Despite the obvious fact that one with a seatbelt on will be far more likely to survive an automobile accident than one who does not have a seatbelt on, this safety feature was implemented in 1984, nearly a century after the first automobile was invented. Because seatbelts were not fully integrated in society back then, it was difficult to quantify the need for it. An apparatus for a quick-release of weights is facing the same dilemma as the integration of seatbelts.

FIELD

The field of the invention relates to any apparatus for a quick-release of weights. Specifically, the invention relates to a cylindrical bar with opposable ends; said bar disposed with a latch at each of the opposable ends, wherein said latch is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar to cause an instantaneous release of weights.

RELATED ART

Fitness equipment having universal functionality are well known in the fitness trade. Fitness equipment of this type usually have no safe-fail feature integrated in the cylindrical bar itself, with a safety weight rack only located on the upper mount and or base rack of the cylindrical bar designed for compound movements, such as the weight bench, weight squat, weight over-head press, weight rows, etc. All of these components and or safety features are fixedly mounted to the base frame of the weight rack. While universal, they do not represent a fitness equipment that provides the user an insurance of safety in case the upper safety rack cannot be reached. Some of the references known in the prior art describes a universal weight rack, but provides a preliminary safety rack when the cylindrical bar is held only near the weight rack of the base frame.
The weight rack of the base frame—which compromises the safety factor and overall versatility—prevents the user from instantly relieving the weight of the cylindrical bar, forcing the fatigued user to struggle to insure their safety by attempting to rack the cylindrical bar on the safety rack. Even if the cylindrical bar is held near the safety rack, the fatigued user may fail to successfully mount the cylindrical bar on the preliminary safety rack, as additional effort is required for the user to hoist the cylindrical bar above and onto the safety rack.
Fitness garments such as weighted gloves, ankle weights, weighted vests, shirts, pants, shorts, footwear, etc, may further complicate the user from successfully racking the cylindrical bar on the safety rack. Additionally, the prior art does not disclose any alternative means for achieving quick-release of weights on-the-fly, with respect to fitness garments. Currently, the only existing method for achieving quick-release of weights visa-a-visa fitness garments is by hoisting the cylindrical bar above and onto the safety rack. Additionally, the designed constraints presented from fitness garments result in awkward body and or finger positioning while racking the weight onto the safety rack. Subsequently, one's daily and, or fitness routine may be severely compromised. At the moment, one cannot effectively engage in racking the cylindrical bar, while insuring one's physical safety.

SUMMARY

These and other features and improvements of the present application will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the several drawings and the appended claims.
The present invention fills a void left behind by the current art by providing for an apparatus that instantaneously releases weight from a cylindrical bar with opposable ends.
It is an object of the claimed invention to provide for an attachable quick-release of weights apparatus for a cylindrical bar with opposable ends. Said bar is attached with a quick-release of weights apparatus with a latch at each of the opposable ends, wherein said latch is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar to cause an instantaneous release of weights.
It is an object of the claimed invention to provide for an integrated quick-release of weights apparatus for a cylindrical bar with opposable ends. Said bar disposed with a latch at each of the opposable ends, wherein said latch is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar to cause an instantaneous release of weights.
In one embodiment, the quick-release of weights apparatus may be a push-button coupled to a locking pin. The closed latch at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with a face of at least one weight and a second side with a push-button coupled to a locking pin, whereby when the button is pushed, said coupled locking pin releases open the latch to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar. In another embodiment, the quick-release of weights apparatus may be locking pin coupled to a button, whereby when a button is pushed on a side of the latch, a locking pin coupled to the button releases open the latch to be removed from the bar. In other embodiments, the quick-release of weights apparatus may be a closed latch at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with a face of at least one weight and a second side with a push-button coupled to a locking pin, whereby when the button is pushed, said coupled locking pin releases open the latch to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.
It is yet a further object of the invention to provide a method of manufacturing of the various embodiments of said bar disposed with a quick-release of weights apparatus and or of said bar integrated with a quick-release of weights apparatus. In one method for a quick-release of weights, said method comprising the steps of: placing at each of an opposable end of cylindrical bar with a latch; configuring each latch to open at one end and to close shut over the each of the opposable ends of the bar; and pushing a button on a side of the latch, whereby the button is coupled to a locking pin releasing open the latch to be removed from the bar, thereby releasing the weights from the bar. In another method for a quick-release of weights, said method comprising the steps of: configuring a cylindrical latch to open at one end and to close shut over each of an opposable end of a cylindrical bar; and pushing a button on a side of the latch, whereby the button is coupled to a locking pin releasing open the latch to be removed from the bar.
Aspects of the advantages of this invention may be realized in other applications, aside from the intended application of weight-training, sports, or fitness. Other aspects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate the design and utility of embodiments of the present invention, in which similar elements are referred to by common reference numerals. In order to better appreciate the advantages and objects of the embodiments of the present invention, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings that illustrate these embodiments. Reference to “Mechanism of Release” or (MOR) are used for any means of releasing bar such as a button, latch, handle, hand pedal, foot pedal, and or any embodiment for releasing bar. A continuation reference of “Quick Release Mechanism” or (QRM) are used for any means of releasing the bar after the MOR has been activated such as a latch, locking-pin, lock, knob, gear, and or any embodiment for releasing bar after MOR activation. However, the drawings depict only some embodiments of the invention, and should not be taken as limiting its scope. With this caveat, embodiments of the inventions will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

Now in FIG. 1 is a sectional perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of latches for quick-release of weights apparatus with weights on opposing ends according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Now in FIG. 2 is a close-up expanded perspective view diagram of the open singular or plurality of latches for quick-release of weights apparatus releasing the opposable removable bars that holds weight on each opposing end according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional perspective view of the apparatus according to present embodiment of the invention singular or plurality of locking pins for the quick-release of weights apparatus, releasing opposing ends of the bar holding no weights according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Now in FIG. 4 is a sectional perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of locking pins for the intact quick-release of weights apparatus that is not activated and holding no weights according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Now in FIG. 5 is a close-up perspective view diagram of the open singular or plurality of latches for quick-release of weights apparatus releasing the removable bars that holds weight on each opposing end according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The inventor provides an apparatus for a quick-release of weights enabling an quick-release of weights of at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of a cylindrical bar with opposable ends. The new system incorporates a mechanism controlled by a user to allow the release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar. The present invention is described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present invention.
Reference to “Mechanism of Release” or (MOR) are used for any means of releasing bar such as a button, latch, handle, hand pedal, foot pedal, and or any embodiment for releasing bar or vice versa, meaning any reference to a button, latch, handle, hand pedal, and or any embodiment for releasing bar is a MOR. A continuation reference of “Quick Release Mechanism” or (QRM) are used for any means of releasing the bar after the MOR has been activated such as a latch, locking-pin, lock, knob, gear, and or any embodiment for releasing bar after MOR activation or vice versa, meaning any reference to a latch, locking-pin, lock, knob, gear, and or any embodiment for releasing bar after MOR activation. Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.
The present embodiments discloses an apparatus for allowing users to quick-release of weights from a cylindrical bar disposed with a single or plurality of latches 120 in FIG. 1 at each of the opposable ends, wherein said latch 120 in FIG. 1 is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar; and the closed single or plurality of latches 120 in FIG. 1 at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with a face of at least one weight and a second side with a singular or plurality of push-buttons 130 in FIG. 2 coupled to a singular or plurality of locking pin 140 in FIG. 3, whereby when the said buttons 130 in FIG. 2 are pushed, said coupled locking pin 140 in FIG. 3 releases open the said latches 120 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar. Additionally, in other embodiments, the quick-release of weights apparatus may be singular or plurality of locking pins 140 in FIG. 3 coupled to a singular or plurality of buttons 130 in FIG. 2, whereby when said buttons 130 in FIG. 2 are pushed on a side of said latches 120 in FIG. 1, the said locking pins 140 in FIG. 3 coupled to the said buttons 130 in FIG. 2 releases open the said latches 120 in FIG. 1, to be removed from the bar. Additionally, in another embodiment, the quick-release of weights apparatus may be a singular or plurality of closed latches 120 in FIG. 1 at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with a face of at least one weight and a second side with a singular or plurality of push-buttons 130 in FIG. 2 coupled to a singular or plurality of locking pins 140 in FIG. 3, whereby when the said buttons 130 in FIG. 2 are pushed, said coupled locking pins 140 in FIG. 3 release open the said latches 120 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.
Now in reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a top perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of latches 120 in FIG. 1 for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a sectional perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of latches 120 in FIG. 1 for quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the latch 120 in FIG. 1 is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of a bar. It may comprise any form of engagement with a lock and quick-release of weights component. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be configured to secure a cylindrical apparatus around a cylindrical bar and lock into place via a locking pin 140 in FIG. 3 mechanism, released by pressing a push-button 130 in FIG. 3.
While not shown in FIG. 1, the latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be incorporated into a housing of a cylindrical apparatus. At least one latch 120 in FIG. 1 on an internal or exposed surface of the housing of a cylindrical apparatus may exist. In alternative embodiments, more than one incorporated latch 120 in FIG. 1 may exist on any given internal or external surface of the cylindrical apparatus. In one representative example, the said apparatus may have a latch 120 in FIG. 1 located on the circumference of the cylindrical apparatus. In yet another representative example, a latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be located on both a circumference and internal surface of the cylindrical apparatus, providing additional connections to other cylindrical apparatus' or additional weight resistance. In yet another representative example, a latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be incorporated on the rears of the cylindrical apparatus may then be connected to other cylindrical apparatus', providing a cylindrical apparatus with more length. In yet another representative example, a larger cylindrical latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be placed over the circumference of the cylindrical apparatus, providing additional weight and tension resistance. In yet another representative example, a larger whole or partial cylindrical latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be placed over or around the cylindrical apparatus. In yet another representative example, the cylindrical apparatus or latch walls may be disposed with a latch 120 in FIG. 1 opening, allowing the connections of other latch-related apparatus' onto the cylindrical apparatus. In yet other examples, the cylindrical apparatus may be disposed with or attached with double incorporated latches 120 in FIG. 1.
While not shown in FIG. 1, the latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be cylindrical or a mechanism imbedded into the apparatus for the quick release of weights. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 is mainly used for the closing and securing for the apparatus around the cylindrical bar. There may be at least one latch 120 in FIG. 1 that is a part of the apparatus, securing the said apparatus around the cylindrical bar. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be placed externally or internally around the apparatus, increasing the weight resistance and overall tension of the apparatus holding the cylindrical bar with the weights. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be placed around the circumference, externally, or internally in the apparatus that could be used to connect other latches 120 in FIG. 1 or apparatus to the latch 120 in FIG. 1 located on the external, internal and or circumference of the apparatus, essentially making the apparatus doubling the apparatus for quick release of weights in size, strength, and or quantity to hold at least one bar. Alternatively, the latch walls or apparatus may be disposed with a latch 120 in FIG. 1, so the latch 120 in FIG. 1 may be used for allowing the connecting, attaching, or transferring of the apparatus for quick release of weights to another apparatus of any sort whether it is another apparatus of quick release of weights or another alternative embodiment, providing more strength, size, quantity, or aesthetics to the said apparatus. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 be facing inwards, sideways, or outwards of the apparatus. The latch 120 in FIG. 1 is used for allowing the user to lock the cylindrical apparatus of quick release the weights around the cylindrical bar and or around any rod-like and or elongated bar.
Now in reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 is a top perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of push-buttons 230 in FIG. 2 for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a sectional perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of push-buttons 230 in FIG. 2 for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 is facing away from at least one side of at least one weight, coupled to a locking pin 240 in FIG. 3, whereby when the button 230 in FIG. 2 is pushed, said coupled locking pin 240 in FIG. 3 releases open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar. It may comprise any form of engagement with a lock and quick-release of weights component. The push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be disposed with the cylindrical apparatus and may be configured to be coupled to a locking-pin 240 in FIG. 3 that may or may not be disposed to the cylindrical apparatus. The push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be configured to release open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar.
While not shown in FIG. 2, the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be located on exposed surface of a housing of a cylindrical apparatus. At least one push-button 230 in FIG. 2 on an exposed or rear surface of the said cylindrical apparatus may exist. More than one push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be exposed on the surface or integrated in said cylindrical apparatus. In one representative example, the said apparatus may have a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 located on one side in contact with a face of at least one weight, allowing another user to activate quick-release mechanism and release open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar. In yet another representative example, a button 230 in FIG. 2 may be located on both opposable ends of the cylindrical apparatus, allowing both the user and an additional user to release open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar. In yet another representative example, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be integrated within at least one side or circumference of the cylindrical apparatus, creating a smooth cylindrical apparatus, allowing a user to push a button 230 in FIG. 2 inwards into the cylindrical apparatus. In yet another representative example, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may not exactly be coupled to a locking pin 240 in FIG. 3, with the use of additional components, to release open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar. For instance, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be coupled to a locking-pin 240 in FIG. 3 with a use of an addition component, allowing the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 to be pushed near the cylindrical bar rather than the sides or rears of the cylindrical apparatus. In yet other examples, the cylindrical apparatus may be disposed with or attached with double exposed surface or integrated push-buttons 230 in FIG. 2.
While not shown in FIG. 2, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be in varying sizes and shapes. A cylindrical apparatus for the release of weights may have a singular or plurality of uniform push-buttons 230 in FIG. 2. Alternatively, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may have a singular or plurality of various forms of push-buttons 230 in FIG. 2. For instance, the surface of the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be a donut-like shape or hollowed circle, surrounding the circumference of the cylindrical bar, whereby when the button 230 in FIG. 2 is pushed, said coupled locking pin 240 in FIG. 3 release open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar, providing a user more surface area for a user's hand to press a push-button 230 in FIG. 2. In yet another alternative embodiment, a push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may have at least one button 230 in FIG. 2 configured to adapt additional surfaces for a push-button 230 in FIG. 2, providing a user with more surface area to press the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 or add more weight resistance.
While not shown in FIG. 2, the push button 230 in FIG. 2 is granting the user an ability to be activating the apparatus to be releasing any form of weights from the cylindrical bar or elongated bar, allowing the user to be free from the pressure exerted on to the user from the cylindrical bar that was weighted on both sides prior to the release mechanism. The push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be facing away from at least one side of at least one weight, which is coupled to a locking pin 240 in FIG. 3. The said push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be disposed with the cylindrical apparatus and may be configured to be coupled or integrated to the locking-pin 240 in FIG. 3, latch 220 in FIG. 1, or the body of the apparatus. Alternatively, the push button 230 in FIG. 2 may be exposing externally, internally, outwards, or inwards of the cylindrical apparatus. There may be more than one push-button 230 in FIG. 2 exposing on the surface of or integrated in the latch 220 in FIG. 1, body of the apparatus, or the locking pin 240 in FIG. 3. The push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be facing outwards, inwards, internally, or externally on both opposable ends of the cylindrical bar, allowing the user to press the push-button 230 in FIG. 2, releasing open the latch 220 in FIG. 1 and allowing the user to release the weights on both ends. The push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may also be placed within at least one side of the circumference of the cylindrical apparatus, creating a convenient or inconvenient method for the user moving his hands across any part of the barbell in order to press the push-button 230 in FIG. 2, releasing the weights. In other alternative embodiments, the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be disposed or attached to a double exposed surface or integrated with the apparatus, transferring the position of the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 anywhere on the bar, allowing the user to press the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 in arms or hands reach. In other alternative embodiments, the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be varying in size, shape, dimension, or feature, depending on the user's preference. This variation of size, color, dimension, feature or any other varying embodiment of the push button 230 in FIG. 2 may be allowing the user a more convenient, non-convenient, or practical in accessing and or identifying the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 easier. For instance, the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 may be a donut-like shape and a color such as red, allowing the user to be identifying and applying any part of their body in order to push the push-button 230 in FIG. 2 and releasing the latch 220 in FIG. 1, allowing for the weights to drop.
Now in reference to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 is a top perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of locking pins 340 in FIG. 3 for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a sectional perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of locking pins 340 in FIG. 3 for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 is coupled to a push-button 330 in FIG. 2, allowing the said cylindrical latch 320 in FIG. 1 to be engaged and secured over the cylindrical bar. It may comprise any form of engagement with a lock and quick-release of weights component. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be disposed with the cylindrical apparatus and may be configured to be coupled to a push-button 330 in FIG. 2 that may or may not be disposed to the cylindrical apparatus. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be configured to engage and secure the open latch 320 in FIG. 1 to prevent the cylindrical apparatus to be removed from the bar.
While not shown in FIG. 3, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be located on exposed surface of a housing of a cylindrical apparatus. At least one push-button 330 in FIG. 2 on an exposed or rear surface of the said cylindrical apparatus may exist. In alternative embodiments, more than one locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be exposed on the surface or integrated in said cylindrical apparatus. In one representative example, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be located on the circumference of the cylindrical apparatus, either vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, providing a different method of securing the cylindrical apparatus closed. In yet another representative example, a button 330 in FIG. 2 may be located on both opposable ends of the cylindrical apparatus, allowing more tension resistance and security for the cylindrical apparatus. Similarly to a previous push-button 330 in FIG. 2 representative example, in yet another representative example, a locking-pin 340 in FIG. 3 may not exactly or directly coupled to a push button 330 in FIG. 2, with the use of additional components, to release open the latch 320 in FIG. 1 to be removed from the bar. In yet other examples, the cylindrical apparatus may be disposed with or attached with double locking pins 340 in FIG. 3, providing more tension-resistance for the lock 340 in FIG. 3.
While not shown in FIG. 3, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may vary in size and shape. At least one uniform locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be incorporated in the cylindrical apparatus. In alternative embodiments, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be a longer or shorter length than intended in order to provide a specific outcome. For instance, a longer locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 that travels through the whole length of the cylindrical apparatus may provide more security and strength to the closed apparatus, providing more security to a user. In yet another representative example, a locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 with a greater area or width may also provide more security and strength to the closed apparatus, providing more security to a user. In yet another representative example, a locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 with a bend or a curve may provide a more effective way of locking the latch 320 in FIG. 1 onto the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 and provide more security and tension-resistance to the closed apparatus.
While not shown in FIG. 3, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 is granting the user an ability to enclose and secure the said apparatus of quick release of weights around a cylindrical bar or any englogated bar-like object. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be configured or coupled to a push-button 330 in FIG. 2 allowing the said cylindrical latch 320 in FIG. 1 to be engaged and secured over the cylindrical bar. It may be comprising any form of engagement with a lock and quick-release of weights component. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be or may not be disposed to the cylindrical apparatus or on the cylindrical bar itself. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be or may not be disposed to a bar-like object that is any geometric shape, whether it is an octagon or hexagon. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be located on the circumference of the cylindrical apparatus, either vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, providing a different method of securing the cylindrical apparatus closed around the bar. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may also be located on both opposable ends of the cylindrical apparatus, allowing more tension resistance and security for the cylindrical bar. The cylindrical apparatus may be disposed with or attached with a double locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 providing more surface area and tension resistance and overall security for the lock and or apparatus as a whole. The locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may vary in size and shape. At least one uniform locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be incorporated in the cylindrical apparatus. In alternative embodiments, the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 may be a longer or shorter length than intended in order to provide a specific outcome. For instance, a longer or shorter locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 that travels through the whole length of the cylindrical apparatus may provide more security and strength to the closed apparatus, providing more security to a user. In yet another representative example, a locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 with a greater area or width may also provide more security and strength to the closed apparatus, providing more security to a user. In yet another representative example, a locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 with a bend or a curve may provide a more effective way of locking the latch 320 in FIG. 1 onto the locking pin 340 in FIG. 3 and provide more security and tension-resistance to the closed apparatus.
Now in FIG. 4 is an expanded perspective view diagram of the singular or plurality of the said apparatus for the quick-release of weights apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the apparatus of claim 1, further comprising of an attachable and detachable cylindrical apparatus for quick-release of weights for a cylindrical bar.
While not shown in FIG. 4, includes an attachable apparatus of a cylindrical bar for a quick-release of weights. Attachable apparatus of a cylindrical bar for a quick-release of weights are defined as any one of a modular, plug-in/plug-out component to be any one of, or combination of, screwed, push-pin locked, spring locked, buckle-inserted and, or stacked. The attachable apparatus for quick-release of weights are modular plug-in/plug-out solutions for quick-release of weights for a cylindrical bar with opposable ends. The mechanism allowing the attachment and detachment of the attachable apparatus for a quick-release of weights to a cylindrical bar with opposing ends are defined as a whole or partial plug-in/plug-out component for engaging and securing the said attachable apparatus to a cylindrical bar with opposable ends.
While not shown in FIG. 4, in this example an apparatus for quick-release of weights, provides an application to other cylindrical bars other than a workout barbell. Other pertinent applications that may exploit the aspects and advantages of this invention are: household cleaning equipment and outdoor equipment or gear for recreational activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, climbing, rowing, sailing, canoeing, etc. For instance, a cylindrical rowing oar or paddle for water-borne propulsion, may be configured for accepting an apparatus for a quick-release of weights at each end of an opposable end of a cylindrical bar. As many variations and forms of oars and paddles are used while rowing, individuals may take advantage of the apparatus for a quick-release of weights in order to interchange only the blade of an oar or paddle without requiring a different oar or paddle.
While not shown in FIG. 4, in this example an apparatus for quick-release of weights, other than the direct, physical control of a user. The quick-release system has an application of wired and or wireless technology of the quick-release of weights apparatus to lock and release at least one weight of opposable end of a cylindrical bar with the use of technological applications. Various other back-end functionalities may be taken advantage of by a user for the quick-release of weights apparatus through a remote control, an interactive mobile application, or technological software.
While not shown in FIG. 4, technology can be used for an apparatus for quick-release of weights, other than user's physical control of doing so. The quick-release system could have a computer or mobile application of wired and or wireless technology of the quick-release of weights apparatus to lock and release at least one weight of opposable end of a cylindrical bar with the use of technological applications. These technological applications could be a software, mobile app, mobile device, or any other wired or wireless connection providing the apparatus instructions of performing the functions of the quick-release of weights apparatus. Various other back-end functionalities may be taken advantage of by a user for the quick-release of weights apparatus through a remote control, an interactive mobile application, or technological software. These back-end functionalities are also not limited to an additional apparatus connected to the quick-release of weights apparatus or the cylindrical and any elongated bar itself. Alternatively, regarding the apparatus and release of weights, the apparatus may be connected to another mechanism and apparatus, allowing the user to use different body parts to activate the release of weights. This secondary apparatus may be an additional addon or integrated into the apparatus of quick release of weights or solely a cylindrical bar itself in order to release the weights. For instance, the release mechanism of the apparatus may be connected to an apparatus with a foot pedal, allowing the ability for the user to press a mechanism with their feet, and or any body part accessible to said pedal, in order to release the weights.
While not shown in FIG. 4, the user is using the apparatus for attaching and securing the apparatus for quick release of weights around a cylindrical bar. Alternatively, the said bar may be an elongated rod that is shaped in any geometrical shape. For example, the bar may be a hexagonal, triangular, or octagonal shape. In alternative embodiments, the apparatus may be moving around the cylindrical bar or elongated bar or rod-like structure so the said apparatus of quick release of weights may be moving around the bar. In other alternative embodiments, regarding the apparatus and release of weights, the apparatus may be disposed to the bar to release any directions of 360 degrees, for example, forwards, upwards, downwards, allowing the release of weights. For instance, just as the human being arm from the elbow joint is able to maneuver around a plethora or directions, the release of weights can be a joint-like rod that releases the weights when the joint allows the rod to move downwards and allowing the weights to slide off the rod whichever direction the rod is pointing. For a better understanding of this alternative embodiment of the joint-like rod releasing the weights, circular rings representing the weights are placed on both sides of the user's forearm while the user's arms are extending outwards to the side like a T-shape. When the user drops his hands and forearms downwards while maintaining his bicep, and shoulder at a 90 degree angle, (for visualization, a person doing the dance move the “zombie”), the weights will slide off the user's forearm and hands, allowing the circular rings to be moving, and sliding off the user's forearm and hand.

Claims

We claim:

1. An apparatus for a quick-release of weights, said apparatus comprising:

a cylindrical bar with opposable ends; At least one latch disposed on each of the opposable ends of aid bar, wherein said latch is cylindrical and configured to open at one end and close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar; and

said latch at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with the face of at least one weight and the first side of said latch with a Mechanism of Release (MOR) and or button coupled to a Quick Release Mechanism (QRM) and or locking pin, whereby when the MOR is activated, said coupled locking pin releases open the latch, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the QRM and or latch is to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch with at least one QRM of lock, latch, clip, hook and or any embodiments of quick release mechanism.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cylindrical bar is configured to the QRM and or latch to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch, using hand-pedal and or MOR to release open QRM and or latch.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the open QRM and or latch remains on the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the open latch is released from the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a foot pedal placed on a floor near a foot of a user, whereby pressing the foot pedal and or MOR, activates the latch to open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a hand pedal near hand of a user, whereby pressing hand pedal and or MOR, activates the latch release open at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a button disposed proximately to a hand grip portion of the cylindrical bar, whereby pressing button and or MOR, activates the latch no open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

9. An apparatus for a quick-release of weights, said apparatus comprising:

At least one latch at each of an opposable end of a cylindrical bar, wherein said latch is cylindrical and configured to open at one end to close shut over the cylindrical bar at each of the opposable ends of the bar; and

said latch at each of the opposable ends with one side in contact with the face of at least one weight and the first side of said latch with a Mechanism of Release (MOR) and or button coupled no a Quick Release Mechanism (QRM) and or locking pin, whereby when the MOR is activated, said coupled locking pin releases open the latch, thereby allowing release of the at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the QRM and or latch is to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch with at least one QRM of lock, latch, clip, hook and or any embodiments of quick release mechanism.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the cylindrical bar is configured to the QRM and or latch to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch, using hand-pedal and or MOR to release open QRM and or latch.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the open QRM and or latch remains on the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the open latch is released from the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

14. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a foot pedal placed on a floor near a foot of a user, whereby pressing the foot pedal and or MOR, activates the latch to open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

15. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a hand pedal near hand of a user, whereby pressing hand pedal and or MOR, activates the latch release open at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

16. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a button disposed proximately to a hand grip portion of the cylindrical bar, whereby pressing button and or MOR, activates the latch to open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

17. A method for a quick-release of weights, said method comprising the steps of:

placing at least one latch at each of an opposable end of a cylindrical bar; configuring each of the at least one latch to open at one end and to close shut over each of the opposable ends of the bar; and

pushing a button on a side of the latch, whereby the button is coupled to a locking pin releasing open the latch for the weights to be released from the bar.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the QRM and or latch is to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch with at least one QRM of lock, latch, clip, hook and or any embodiments of quick release mechanism.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the cylindrical bar is configured to the QRM and or latch to securely close shut over the bar, allowing for a user to then slide in the weights with the face of at least one weight facing the first side of the closed QRM and or latch, using hand-pedal and or MOR to release open QRM and or latch.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the open QRM and or latch remains on the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the open latch is released from the bar after pushing the MOR and or hand-pedal for instance.

22. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a foot pedal placed on a floor near a foot of a user, whereby pressing the foot pedal and or MOR, activates the latch to open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

23. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising any conventional method known in the art, such as a hand pedal near hand of a user, whereby pressing hand pedal and or MOR, activates the latch release open at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.

24. The apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a button disposed proximately to a hand grip portion of the cylindrical bar, whereby pressing button and or MOR, activates the latch to open and release at least one weight from at least one end of the opposable ends of the bar.