WO2008152627A2

WO2008152627A2 - Hydraulic powered multi-function exercise machine and apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2008152627A2
Application number: PCT/IL2008/000784
Authority: WO
Inventors: Uri Kleinman
Original assignee: Uri Kleinman
Priority date: 2007-06-14
Filing date: 2008-06-10
Publication date: 2008-12-18
Also published as: IL183968A0; WO2008152627A3; WO2008152627A8

Abstract

In a first aspect the invention is a hydraulic exercise machine for allowing a user to perform a plurality of exercises. The exercise machine of the invention is characterized in that the pressure release mechanism is a mechanical mechanism that allows the cable to be drawn from the exercise machine with a predetermined minimum resistance, independent of the speed at which the cable is drawn out from the exercise machine. Some embodiments of the hydraulic exercise machine are adapted to allow the user to do only concentric (positive) work and other embodiments are adapted to allow the user to do either concentric (positive) work or eccentric (negative) work. The invention is also an apparatus comprising the hydraulic exercise machine. The exercise apparatus of the invention may comprising an exercise bench for the user to sit or lie thereon when performing an exercise and a platform upon which the exercise machine and the exercise bench are affixed.

Description

HYDRAULIC POWERED MULTI-FUNCTION EXERCISE MACHINE

AND APPARATUS

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates in general to the field of exercise apparatus. In particular, the present invention relates to multi-function exercise machine and apparatus that allow the user to perform a plurality of exercises.

Background of the Invention

It is well known that the performance of physical activity improves blood circulation in the body, can assist in weight loss, enhances muscle mass, as well as helps in maintaining a person's overall health. Countless fitness clubs, each having a plethora of expensive equipment, operate all over the world to cater to the different exercise needs of people. Additionally, many people purchase such equipment and build a home gym in order to keep in shape in the comfort of their homes.

Exercise apparatus and machines exist in a wide variety of forms. Some are single-exercise machines that allow the user to concentrate on working with a specific muscle or body part, while others are multi-function apparatus, which allow the user to perform a plurality of different exercises with different body parts and using different muscles. Such multi-function apparatus are particularly suitable for a person's private workout center (or, home gym), which typically consists of a much smaller area than a professional fitness club.

Strength gains occur when muscles produce force. If the muscle shortens while producing force, it produces concentric (positive) work. If it lengthens while producing force, work is done on the muscle, resulting in eccentric (negative) work. Physically, equal energy is converted in both cases; however, Jive to seven times more energy is spent for concentric work than is spent for physically equal eccentric work. This is due to the muscular friction present when performing negative work.

When using free weights, the user is required to perform both concentric and eccentric work. Many exercise machines mimic such training by providing resistance to both forms of work, typically either via a mechanical or electronic system. Other machines provide resistance to one form of work, but not the other.

One form of exercise machine utilizes a hydraulic pump to provide the desired resistance to the user. However, one major disadvantage associated with prior art exercise apparatus and machines that utilize hydraulic pumps is the limitation of the speed at which the user may pull the cable. The faster the user pulls the cable, the more hydraulic fluid is produced by the pump. However, the fluid is required to pass through an opening having a fixed diameter; therefore, since the resistance will increase with increasing volume of fluid that must pass through the opening until it reaches a value greater than that which can be exerted by the muscles of the user, there exists a maximum rate at which the fluid can pass through the opening. Hence, there exists a maximum speed, which is determined by the structure of the exercise machine, at which the user can pull on the cable.

US 6,413,195 discloses a passive/active fluid exercise device that can be selectively placed in a passive mode for providing a resistance type of operation, or an active mode for providing a velocity type of operation. The different modes are fully controlled by computer software, a solenoid valve and a servo valve. The servo control valve sets a resistance for the fluid flow in the fluid circuit. The speed at which the user moves the exercise bar is sensed by the feedback device. The computer adjusts the flow of the servo control valve to allow the user to operate at his level of ability. The apparatus allows the user to either speed up or slow down while maintaining the desired resistance. The device of US 6,413,195 uses complicated electronics to allow the user to alter his speed during use.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a multi-function exercise apparatus that allows the user to perform a plurality of exercises, with only a limited restriction to the speed at which the exercises may be performed.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a multi-function exercise apparatus that collapses to a storage state and opens to an in-use state.

It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a multi-function exercise apparatus wherein the resistance is provided by a hydraulic pump.

Additional objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

Summary of the Invention

In a first aspect the invention is a hydraulic exercise machine for allowing a user to perform a plurality of exercises. The machine comprises: a) one or more closed fluid circuits comprised of conduits; b) means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around the closed circuits; c) at least one cable connected at one end to the means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow; d) grasping means connected to the free end of the cable adapted to allow the user to selectively draw the cable out of the exercise machine; e) returning means adapted to allow the cable to be retracted into the exercise machine; f) at least one pressure release mechanism; g) a regulator system that is adapted to allow the user to set the minimum resistance; and h) electric circuitry, a control panel, a processor, and display means adapted to allow the user to set the exercise machine to desired settings and to operate the machine in order to perform the plurality of exercises; The exercise machine of the invention is characterized in that the pressure release mechanism is a mechanical mechanism that allows the cable to be drawn from the exercise machine with a predetermined minimum resistance, independent of the speed at which the cable is drawn out from the exercise machine.

In an embodiment of the hydraulic exercise machine of the invention the pressure release mechanism comprises a mechanical mechanism comprising the smallest diameter restriction in the exercise machine to the free flow of hydraulic fluid around the fluid circuit. The restriction comprises an opening sealed by a plunger, which is held in place by a spring. When the force exerted by the hydraulic fluid on the face of the plunger is gradually increased, the spring is gradually compressed, thereby increasing the diameter of the opening from zero until it attains the diameter of the other conduits in the fluid circuit.

The means of the hydraulic exercise machine for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around the closed circuits can comprise one of the following: a) a rotary hydraulic pump; b) a hydraulic engine; or c) a linear hydraulic pump. The grasping means of the hydraulic exercise machine can comprise one of the following: a) handles; b) bars; or c) levers.

The returning means if the hydraulic exercise machine can comprise either counterweights or a bi-directional solenoid valve, an electric motor that drives an additional hydraulic pump, and additional conduits that are used to route the flow of the fluid in the machine in a direction opposite to that caused by the means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around the closed circuits.

In embodiments of the hydraulic exercise machine the regulator system comprises a reversible electric motor, which through a mechanical linkage pushes against the end of the spring opposite the plunger, thereby compressing the spring or allowing it to expand. In other embodiments the regulator system comprises a solenoid valve, which through a mechanical linkage pushes against the end of the spring opposite the plunger, therebs^ compressing the spring or allowing it to expand.

Embodiments of the hydraulic exercise machine are adapted to allow the user to do only concentric (positive) work. Other embodiments of the hydraulic exercise machine of the invention are adapted to allow the user to do either concentric (positive) work or eccentric (negative) work.

In another aspect the invention is an exercise apparatus comprising a hydraulic exercise machine according to the first aspect for allowing a user to perform a plurality of exercises. The exercise apparatus of the invention may comprising an exercise bench for the user to sit or lie thereon when performing an exercise and a platform upon which the exercise machine and the exercise bench are affixed. The platform comprises at least one pivot situated thereon for passing the cable around. The exercise bench and/or the platform can be collapsible to a storage position. The exercise bench may have a back support that can be selectively joined to and removed from it. The height and angle of the exercise bench relative to the platform can be changeable.

Brief Description of the Figures In the drawings:

-Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the exercise apparatus of the present invention;

-Fig. 2 illustrates an enlarged view of the main control panel and the power switch of the exercise machine of the present invention;

-Figs. 3 and 4 illustrate the main control panel removed from the exercise machine;

-Figs. 5 and 6 illustrate the exercise bench of the present invention with the back support at the front portion of the bench (Fig. 5) and the at the rear portion of the bench (Fig. 6);

-Fig. 7 illustrates the exercise bench of the present invention set up at an angle with respect to the platform;

-Fig. 8 illustrates a first embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention in its collapsed position; -Figs. 9a and 9b illustrate a wire frame view of the apparatus of the present invention in an alternative embodiment for collapsing the apparatus;

-Fig. 10 illustrates the exercise machine of the present invention in a front view with the outer cover removed; -Fig. 11 illustrates the pressure release mechanism of the present invention with the enclosure removed; -Fig. 12 illustrates the pressure release mechanism of Fig. 11 in an exploded view;

-Figs. 13-70 illustrate a plurality of exercises being performed by a user with the apparatus of the present invention; and -Fig 71 schematically shows an embodiment of the invention that allows the user to use the exercise machine of the invention to perform exercises that require him to do either concentric or eccentric work.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

Performing exercise is a well recognized way of keeping healthy and fit. Various exercise apparatus exist which allow the user to perform different forms of work with different levels of resistance. The present invention allows a user to perform a plurality of exercises without restricting the speed at which the exercises may be performed.

An embodiment of the hydraulic powered exercise apparatus of the present invention is shown in Fig. 1 in perspective view, and generally designated herein by the numeral (100). Apparatus (100) comprises an exercise machine (110), an exercise bench (120) and a platform (130) upon which exercise machine (110) and exercise bench (120) are affixed. It is emphasized that the elements of the exercise apparatus and their configuration described herein is given for illustrative purposes only. The inventors do not intend to limit the invention to the specific apparatus (100) described but anticipate that skilled persons will be able to provide many alternatives that will nonetheless fall within the framework of the principles described herein.

First and second cables (104) (see, for example, Fig. 4) are wound about a pulley (or, peg) situated within exercise machine (110) as described herein below, and are selectively drawn out of and rewound, i.e. retracted back into exercise machine (110) through respective openings (113). First and second handles (112) are attached to the free ends of the first and second cables respectively, for allowing the user to grasp and draw the cables as desired.

Fig. 2 shows an enlarged view of the main control panel (116) affixed to exercise machine (110), and of the power switch (102). Main control panel (116) is utilized for programming and displaying the settings of apparatus (100) such as resistance force, speed, number of repetitions, exercise time, etc. Main control panel (116) is preferably removably replaceable to and from exercise machine (110) to allow the user to program the settings while being situated at a distance from exercise machine (110), as shown in Figs. 3 and 4. In Fig. 3, the user is shown lying down on exercise bench (120), programming the settings of apparatus (100) while holding main control panel (116). In Fig. 4, the user is pulling cables (104) out of exercise machine (110) while main control panel (116) sits on a stand (117) beside the user. In Fig. 4 the handles are attached to cables that pass around pulleys 134 on platform 130, allowing the cables to pass under exercise bench 120.

Main control panel (116) communicates with a processor situated within exercise machine (110) either via electrical wires or cables as shown, or alternatively, via, for instance, Bluetooth™ technology. A secondary control panel (118) is provided (see Fig. 1) for indicating actual output and other parameters associated with the operation of the exercise machine. In other embodiments of the invention main control panel (116) and secondary control panel (118) are combined into a single unit which can be either permanently attached to exercise machine (110) or detachable to act as a remote unit.

Referring to Figs. 1, 5 and 6, exercise bench (120) comprises a front aperture (122) and a rear aperture (124) for selectively inserting back support (126) of exercise bench (120) to either one of apertures (122), (124) as desired and according to the exercise to be performed. Fig. 5 shows back support (126) situated in front aperture (122) at the front portion of exercise bench (120) and Fig. 6 shows back support (126) situated in rear aperture (124) at the rear portion of exercise bench (120). When back support (126) is removed from exercise bench (120) a user can perform exercises while lying down thereon as seen in the figures and described herein below. Alternatively, a user may sit upright on exercise bench (120) using back support (126) as a counterb alance when

and described herein below.

Back support (126) preferably comprises a plurality of ribs (126a-d) as seen, for instance, in Fig. 5, for conforming to the curvature of the user's back as it changes throughout the performance of different exercises.

With reference to Fig. 7 it is shown that the height of exercise bench (120), and the angles at which exercise bench (120) is oriented with respect to platform (130) may be altered.

Referring to Fig. 1, platform (130) comprises four pivots situated thereon. In the embodiment shown the pivots are pulleys (132), (134). The first and second cables (104) are drawn from exercise machine (120) and passed around respective front pulleys (132) and/or back pulleys (134), depending on the particular exercise desired to be performed, as shown in the figures described herein below.

It is understood that apparatus (100) may alternatively comprise only one cable. Additionally, the number of pulleys and their positions along platform (130) may be different than that shown in the figures herein. Exercise bench (120) and exercise platform (130) are preferably collapsible to allow for a more compact storage of apparatus (100). Fig. 8 shows one embodiment of apparatus (100) in the collapsed, or storage position. Platform (130) comprises a front section (132) and a rear section (134) hinged to each other. Rear section (134) rotates upward about the hinges (133) until exercise bench (120) contacts exercise machine (110). In the storage position, rear section (134) is positioned essentially orthogonal to front section (132), thereby substantially truncating the length of apparatus (100). In an alternative embodiment, Figs. 9a and 9b show apparatus (100) in a wire-frame drawing. In Fig. 9a the legs (128) of exercise bench (120) are folded by releasing the locking mechanism (not shown) or stoppers that maintain legs (128) in an upright position, allowing legs (128) to rotate about respective pivots (129). In Fig. 9b, while exercise bench (120) is in the folded position, platform (130) is folded by rotating front section (132) and rear section (134) about hinges (131) and (133) respectively, such that the portion of front and rear sections (132), (134) that are hinged is raised upward, thereby forming an "A" shape.

Using the embodiment of the present invention described in detail with respect to Fig 10 herein below, the user performs only positive work by carrying out concentric muscle actions, but not eccentric muscle actions. This is accomplished by providing a desired high resistance to the cable as it is drawn from exercise machine (120), and providing only a minimal resistance when the cable is rewound into exercise machine (120).

An embodiment of the invention in which the user carries out positive work while carrying out concentric muscle actions when pulling the cables out of the exercise machine and also negative work while carrying out eccentric muscle actions returning the cables to the machine will be described herein below with reference to Fig. 71. In all embodiments, when the user pulls on the cables, a pump (or hydraulic engine) is activated causing the hydraulic fluid, typically oil, to flow in conduits around a closed circuit through a mechanism that provides resistance to the force exerted by the user and back to the pump. A mechanism is installed that provides the resistance to pulling the cable. In many prior art exercise machines the most important component of this mechanism is an orifice having a fixed diameter through which the fluid must pass. Therefore, as the speed at which the cable is be pulled rises, the resistance rises dramatically and therefore, the speed at which the cable. may be pulled is limited to a maximum value that depends on the diameter of the orifice. These prior art exercise machines normally are provided with a feature that allows the option of selecting any one of a fixed number of orifices having different diameters, thereby allowing the user only a discreet number of choices of the degree of difficulty that is suitable for him. Note that the handles (112) described herein are presented as an illustrative representation of a wide range of grasping means, e.g. levers or bars of various designs, that are connected to appropriate mechanisms for activating the means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around the closed fluid circuits inside the exercise machine in order to create a resistance to the force exerted by the user on the grasping means. Skilled persons would be able to easily adapt the embodiments of the exercise machine described herein by replacing the handles (112) with other types of grasping means.

The present invention overcomes both of these limitations of prior art exercise machines by replacing the fixed diameter orifice, with an orifice that is opened and closed by a spring activated piston. The more hydraulic fluid pumped as a result of the user pulling on the cables, the wider the orifice opens. This means that, on the one hand, the resistance that is provided by the cable rises moderately and therefore is not limited by the speed at which the user pulls the cable and, on the other hand, the machine of the invention provides an unlimited number of degrees of difficulty to the user.

Fig. 10 shows a wire frame front view of an embodiment of exercise machine (110) with the front cover removed to better view the internal components. In operation, the user grasps one or both of the handles (not shown in this figure) and draws cable (104) out of exercise machine (120) by passing around upper cable pulley (140). The end of cable (104) is wound about lower cable reel (142) such that when cable (104) is drawn, lower cable reel rotates about its axis to allow cable (104) to pay out. The shaft (145) of each hydraulic pump (144) (the shaft of only the pump on the left side is seen in the figure) is attached to lower cable reel (142) such that rotation of lower cable reel causes the shaft of the hydraulic pump to rotate, thereby causing fluid (e.g. oil) to be pumped around a closed circuit within exercise machine (110), as described further herein below. A secondary reel (146) is coaxially affixed to lower cable reel (142). A secondary cable (not shown in the figures) is wrapped around secondary (lower) cable reel (146), passes around a pivot, e.g. a reel, (not shown in the figure) located near the upper cable reel (140), and is connected at its free end to counterweight (150). Thus, if the secondary cable is wound about secondary reel (146) in an opposite direction to the direction that cable (104) is wound about lower cable reel (142), when, cable (104) is pulled, causing lower cable reel (142) to rotate, secondary reel (146) rotates in turn, which lifts counterweight (150). When cable (104) is released by the user, counterweight (150) drops, thereby rewinding cable (104) around lower cable reel (142). Secondary reel (146) is rigidly attached to lower cable reel (142); however lower cable reel (142) is attached to the axle of pump (144) by means of a uni-directional bearing or clutch (not shown in the figures). This bearing allows the shaft of pump (144) to rotate when cable (104) is pulled out of exercise machine (110) but disconnects reels (142) and (146) from the shaft when the cable is returned, thereby preventing the pump for rotating and pumping fluid in the opposite direction.

It is noted that for illustrative purposes (144) is represented herein as a rotary hydraulic pump, but could also be configured to function as an engine. Furthermore many other arrangements can be provided for producing the necessary flow of hydraulic fluid when cable 104 is pulled. For example cable 104 can be attached to the piston of a linear hydraulic pump, which is coupled to a converter to rotary motion in order to raise the counterweight.

As is seen in Fig. 10, secondary reel (146) has a smaller diameter than lower cable reel (142). Depending on the exact ratio between the diameter of the two reels (146) and (142), which in a preferred embodiment is 1:8, one full revolution of lower cable reel (142) corresponds to several revolutions of secondary reel (146). Hence, the user can pull cables (104) to a large distance while counterweight (150) shifts only a fraction of that distance.

Referring to Fig. 10, when the user pulls one or both of the cables 104 out of the exercise machine 110, the cable unwinds from the respective lower cable reel 142 causing the shaft of hydraulic pump 144 to turn, which in turn causes hydraulic fluid to be pumped through conduits 154a and/or 154b through pressure release mechanism 152 and back to pump 144 via inlet pipe 155a and/or 155b. At some location in the circuit is placed an opening, which restricts the flow of hydraulic fluid around the system, creating a force that limits the speed at which the shaft of the pump and the lower reel can rotate. This is the resistance that has to be overcome by the muscles of the user as he pulls on the cable. According to this embodiment of the invention, the opening is located inside pressure release mechanism 152 and the diameter of the opening is controlled by a spring mechanism. The minimal amount of resistive force is pre-set by the user by means of regulator system 178. Pressure release mechanism 152 and regulator system 178 and described in detail hereinbeiow.

As described above, the resistive force that must be overcome when drawing cable (104) out of exercise machine (120) is set by the user via main control panel (116). In this embodiment, only a small amount of force, essentially zero when compared to the force needed to draw the cable out of the machine, must be supplied by the user to return cable (104) back into exercise machine (110) and wind it about lower cable reel (142). The force that rewinds the cable is mainly provided by the counterweight (150) as it falls back towards the bottom of exercise machine 110. The force that is exerted by the muscles of the user is only that needed to nearly offset the gravitational force on the counterweight in order to control the speed at which the counterweight falls. In order to minimize the force that must be exerted by the user to a minimum, the mass of the counterweight is preferably between 1-10 kilograms, more preferably between 2-7 kilograms, and even more preferably, between 2-3 kilograms.

Figs. 11 and 12 show pressure release mechanism (152) and regulator system (178), which sets the force required to open the spring loaded safety valve (161) in order to allow the fluid to enter and pass through the outlet conduits (175), with their covers removed (Fig. 11) and in an exploded view (Fig. 12).

From left to right in Fig. 11 can be seen the main components of pressure release mechanism (152), i.e. block (163) in which are created various fluid channels and bores; frame (153), which is rigidly attached to the right side of block (163); and spring housing (170), which passes through frame (153) into a bore in the end of block (163) to which it is attached. Regulator system (178) is attached to the right end of frame 153. Referring to Fig. 10, as described herein above, when cable (104) is drawn by a user, hydraulic pump (144) pumps hydraulic fluid (not shown in the figures) through exit pipes (154a), (154b) (depending on which cable is pulled) causing the fluid to pass through inlet connectors (156a), (156b) to enter pressure release mechanism (152). Now referring to Fig. 11, the fluid enters pressure block (163) of pressure release mechanism (152) at openings (157), and flows through inlet conduits (158) into central channel (160). The fluid contacts the face (165) of plunger (164), which seals the end of central channel (160). As the pressure of the fluid within central channel (160) increases due to the output of hydraulic pump (144), the force of the fluid against face (165) causes plunger (164) to be displaced within housing (170), pushing against the second end (166b) of spring (166), thereby compressing spring (166). When plunger (164) is pushed past exit conduits (175), the fluid exits block (163) of pressure release mechanism (152) through outlet connectors (177a) and (177b) and travels back to pumps (144) through inlet pipes (155a), (155b) (Fig. 10). Inlet connectors (156a), (156b) comprise mechanical one way valves to insure that the hydraulic fluid flows through the conduits that are connected to them in the proper direction. Note that Fig. 10 is a side view and that for part of the circuit conduits (154a) and (154b) are lined up so that one of them hides the other from view. This portion of the circuit is labeled (154a,b). A similar situation applies to conduits (155a) and (155b), which are labeled (155a,b) for part of the circuit. In the embodiments shown in Figs. 10 to 12, all of the hydraulic fluid flowing in the conduits in exercise machine (110) flow through central channel (160); therefore even if the two cables 104 are pulled at different speeds, the resistance felt by the user pulling on them will be the same. In other embodiments, two pressure release mechanisms (152) are provided; one in a circuit connected to each pump (144), therebs^ allowing the resistance to pulling of each cable to be independent of the resistance to pulling the other cable. The components of regulator system (178) are shown in Figs. 11 and 12 in a plan view for illustrative purposes; however, in reality the components are oriented in a plane perpendicular to the page. Regulator system (178) comprises a reversible electric motor (180) having a shaft (not shown) that passes through the central opening (182) of slotted disc (184), and is fixedly connected to male coupler (174). The slotted disc (184) is rigidly joined to the shaft of motor (184) at central opening (182) such that the rotation of the shaft causes slotted disc (184) to rotate coaxially simultaneously. An electronic sensor mechanism (186), comprising a light source that emits a narrow beam of light, e.g. a laser of light emitting diode, is positioned between motor (180) and slotted disc (184) for detecting and counting the amount of rotation of the shaft. The light source is aimed at the outer edge of disc (184) and, as the disc is rotated, the light beam is alternatively reflected back towards the detector or passes through the slotted portions of disc (184). Therefore, by counting the number of pulses of reflected light, the number of revolutions (or partial revolutions) of the shaft can be determined. The arrangement shown for counting the revolutions of the shaft of motor (180) is for illustrative purposes only and any method known in the art can be used, e.g. putting the light source and detector on opposite sides of slotted disc and measuring transmitted pulses, using a gear train to connect a mechanical counter indirectly to the shaft of motor 180, or a counter based on the use of electronic rotary encoders. Apparatus (100) comprises electronics (not shown) that controls the direction of revolution and time of operation, i.e. number of revolutions of the shaft, of motor (180) and electronics that are adapted to convert the rotation of the shaft to units that are readable to the user, preferably relating to units of force. The electronics of the apparatus allows the user to activate regulator system (178) in order to increase or decrease the minimum force that he must exert as desired by pressing a suitable button or equivalent input mechanism situated on main control panel (116) (Fig. 1). In order to increase the resistive force that must be overcome to pull cable (104), the amount of force that is required in order to push safety valve (161) to an open position to allow fluid to pass through exit conduits (175) must be increased. This is accomplished in the following manner, with reference particularly to Fig. 11. Motor (180) is rotated in a first direction, causing the shaft to rotate accordingly. Moving further towards the safety valve (161, a two tined fork-like structure on the left end (Fig. 12) of male coupler (174) is meshed with a similar structure on the right end of female coupler (172). With this arrangement, activating motor (180) causes rotation of male coupler (174). Because they are meshed together rotation of male coupler (174) causes female coupler (172) to rotate along with it. At the same time, male coupler (174) and female coupler (172) can move linearly with respect to each other along their common longitudinal axis.

The end of threaded drive shaft (171), which extends from female coupler (172) and passes through a threaded hole in the wall of housing (170), pushes against a plate (167) situated at the first end (166a) of spring (166). A plunger (164) is situated at the second end (166b) of spring (166), and is shaped to be accommodated within holder (162). The front of holder (162) has an opening to allow fluid to pass through it from central channel (160). The perimeter of the hole is configured to act as a seat against which the front surface (165) of plunger (164) is pushed by spring (166), thereby sealing the opening and to prevent passage of fluid from central channel (160) into holder (162). An O-ring gasket (168) (best seen in Fig. 12) is positioned between the plunger (164) and the second end (166b) of spring (166) for preventing fluid from passing beyond the spring (166) when the force of the fluid against the plunger is enough to cause fluid to flow through the opening . As motor (180) is activated, power is transferred by means of male coupler (174) to female coupler (172) causing the shaft (171) to rotates in a first direction, advancing linearly as it is "screwed into" the threaded hole in housing (170) and compressing spring (166), thereby increasing the amount of force needed to push, safety valve (161) to an open position, i.e. increasing the resistive force that must be overcome to pull cable (104). Similarly, when motor (180) is activated to turn in the opposite direction, shaft (171) rotates in the opposite direction allowing plate (167) to move backwards and spring (166) to expand, thereby reducing the amount of force needed to push safety valve (161) to an open position. It is to be noted that the arrangement described herein above and especially the mechanical linkage used to adjust the tension in spring (166) by means of motor (180) is presented for purposes of illustrating the principles of the invention only and that many alternatives can easily be provided by persons skilled in the art. For example regulator system (178) couplers (172) and (174) and drive shaft (171) can all be replaced by an electric solenoid which moves a shaft in and out pushing against the spring to compress it or allow it to expand.

Referring to Fig. 10, as described herein above, when cable (104) is pulled by a user, hydraulic pump (144) pumps hydraulic fluid through exit pipes (154a), (154b) (depending on which cable/s is pulled) causing the fluid to pass through inlet connectors (156a), (156b) to enter pressure release mechanism (152). Now, referring to Fig. 11, the fluid enters pressure block (163) of pressure ^• release mechanism (152) at openings . (157), and flows through inlet conduits (158) into central channel (160). The fluid pushes against the face (165) of plunger (164), which seals the end of central channel (160). As the pressure of the fluid within central channel (160) increases due to the output of hydraulic pump 144, the force of the fluid against surface (165) causes plunger (164) to be displaced within housing (170), pushing against the second end (166b) of spring (166), thereby compressing spring (166). When the force exerted by the hydraulic fluid is greater than that exerted by the spring, plunger (164) will be pushed back into holder 162. As the force is increased spring (166) is compressed more and more until O-ring gasket (168) is pushed back into housing (170) far enough to gradually unblock the entrances to exit conduits (175) allowing the fluid to exit from block (163) of pressure release mechanism (152) through outlet connectors (177a) and (177b) and to travel back to pumps (144) through inlet pipes (155a), (155b) (Fig. 10).

According to the present invention, the diameter of all conduits through which the fluid passes are the same and has been selected to allow the maximum flow rate of hydraulic fluid that can be achieved by pumps (144). The only restriction of free flow of hydraulic fluid around the circuit inside exercise machine (110) is the opening in pressure release mechanism (152). Effectively, the diameter of this opening is gradually increased from zero until it attains the diameter of the other conduits by increasing the force (pressure) of the hydraulic fluid exerted by pumps (144) from zero to the maximum value, i.e. the size of the smallest orifice through which the hydraulic fluid must flow is directly dependent on the amount of fluid that must flow through it.

At the start of the exercise period, the user uses the buttons or equivalent input means provided on main control panel (116) to adjust regulator system (178) to set the minimum resistance to be provided by regulator system (178). The user then begins exercising by pulling on one or both cables. Since the amount of fluid pumped by the pumps (144) depends on the speed at which the cable is pulled, there is a minimum speed that must be used to overcome the minimum resistance that was selected, i.e. at the minimum speed enough fluid will be forced into central channel (160) to raise the pressure to the level needed to compress spring (166) enough to allow fluid to begin to flow through the outlet connectors (177a, 177b). When the user pulls cable (104) at faster speeds more fluid is supplied by pump (144). Therefore the opening in pressure release mechanism (152) must be increased by compressing spring (166) a greater amount than when less fluid is supplied, in order to allow the fluid to exit pressure release mechanism (152). Since the amount of resistance that must be overcome increases as the spring is compressed further it is understood that, although the exercise machine of the invention provides increasing resistance as the cable is pulled faster, it does not limit the speed with which the user can pull the cables (104) or the amount of force that he can exert up to the maximum allowed by the characteristics of pump (144).

Another feature of exercise machine (110) is a pressure sensor (188) located near the base (187) of exercise machine (110) (see Fig. 10). Pressure sensor (188) detects the instantaneous pressure of the hydraulic fluid pumped as a result of the user pulling on cable (104). The detected amount of pressure is converted to units of force and displayed on secondary control panel (118) (Fig. 1).

Referring still to Fig. 10, as described above, exercise platform (130) is preferably collapsible to allow for a more compact storage of apparatus (100). To that end, embodiments of exercise machine (110) comprise a collapsing mechanism for selectively collapsing and opening platform (130). This collapsing mechanism comprises a telescopic arm (190) that is selectively extended and retracted, thereby selectively paying out and rewinding a platform cable (not shown in the figures) about pulley (192). When desiring to store apparatus (100), the collapsing mechanism is actuated by the electronic control system (194) (via a suitable button situated on main control panel (116), telescopic arm (190) contracts and the cable is pulled and wound about pulley (192) until platform (130) is collapsed to one of the positions as shown in Figs. 8, 9a and 9b. When desiring to use apparatus (100), the collapsing mechanism is actuated, telescopic arm (190) expands, and the cable is released to allow platform (130) to open to the in use position as shown in the figures herein.

Many different modifications to the exercise machine described herein above are possible. For example regulator system 178 and parts of pressure release mechanism can be replaced by an electronic solenoid valve. Suitable solenoid valves are commercially available, e.g. proportional valves from Series EEV091C supplied by Parker Hydraulics, Ohio, U.S.A.

In another embodiment of the invention, shown schematically in Fig 71, a two-way solenoid and an electro-hydraulic pump are provided that causes the oil in the conduits to flow in the reverse direction when the cable (104) is released. In this embodiment pump (144) and reels (142) will also turn in the opposite direction. This allows the user to use the exercise machine of the invention to perform exercises that require him to do either concentric or eccentric work or both, but of course not in the same movement.

Referring now to Fig. 71, many of the components of exercise machine (110) are identical to those in the embodiment shown in Fig. 10. Like components are identified using the same numeral to identify them in the two figures. In the present embodiment exercise machine (110) comprises two pressure release mechanisms (152a) and (152b). Also present are a bi-directional solenoid valve (200), a hydraulic fluid reservoir (208), an electric motor (210) that drives hydraulic pump (212), and a number of conduits that are used to route the flow of the fluid in the machine as will be described herein below. As in Fig. 10, conduits labeled, for example 154a,b represent two separate conduits 154a and 154b, wherein one of the conduits hides the other from view. Not present in the embodiment shown in Fig. 71 are secondary reel (146), counterweight 150, and the uni-directional bearing. In this embodiment lower cable reel (142) is rigidly attached to the axle of pump enabling the pump to rewind the cable when the hydraulic fluid is forced to flow through it in the reverse direction as will be explained hereinbelow.

Solenoid valve 200 has an entrance port to which conduit (202) from hydraulic pump (212) is connected and two exit ports. An electronic control system (not shown in the figures) alternately opens the port connected to conduit (204a) leading to reservoir (208) and closes the port connected to conduits (206a,b) and vice versa.

Reservoir (208) acts as a hub through which all of the hydraulic fluid flows. Conduits 214a,b are in fluid communication with the interior of reservoir (208) via mechanical one-way valves that allow fluid to flow out of reservoir (208) but not into it. Note that although reservoir (208) is shown in Fig.71 as a separate component of exercise machine (110) other arrangements are possible, e.g. it can be a sump of pump (212).

Regulator systems (178a) and (178b) and pressure release mechanisms (152a) and (152b) are respectively identical to regulator system (178) and pressure release mechanism (152) in Figs.10 to 12. To exercise on exercise machine (110) a user first turns on an on/off switch. He then sets the regulator systems of pressure release mechanism 152a, which controls the minimum force that he must exert when doing concentric work to pull the cable out of the exercise machine, and the pressure release mechanism 152b, which controls the minimum force that he must exert when doing eccentric work to return the cable to the exercise machine. When the on/off switch is turned on, motor (210) is activated, solenoid valve 200 is activated such that the exit port connected to conduit (204a) is open and the exit port connected to conduits (206a,b) is closed, and regulator system 178b is activated such that fluid can not flow through pressure release mechanism 152b regardless of the pressure. Under these conditions pump (212) begins to pump hydraulic fluid around a circuit comprised of conduits (202), (204a), and (204b). Since there are no restrictions to the flow in this circuit, pump (212) creates only the minimum pressure needed to overcome the frictional forces to the flow of hydraulic fluid, i.e. the electric motor (210) and pump (212) are working in "neutral". At the start of the exercise period the cables are fully wound into the machine. When the user starts to pull on one or both of the cables (104) and pumps (144) are activated as described with relation to Fig.10. Hydraulic fluid is now pumped through conduits (154a) and (154b); through pressure release mechanism (152a), which causes the resistance that must be overcome by the user as described herein above; and back through conduits (216a,b )to reservoir (208). Note that the fluid flowing through conduits (154a,b) is prevented from flowing through conduits (206a,b) by the closed exit port of solenoid valve (200). The hydraulic fluid that enters the reservoir from pressure release mechanism (152a) can not flow through conduits (220a,b) because of the one-way valves in connectors (156a,b) and the closure of pressure release mechanism (152b). Therefore the fluid will exit reservoir (208) through conduits (214a,b) and enter conduits (155a,b). As said the passage through pressure release mechanism (152b) is blocked by the regulator; therefore the hydraulic fluid returns to pumps (144) through conduits (155a,b).

One or more sensors, which are adapted to determine the change in direction of the motion of the cables, i.e. the instant at which the user stops pulling on the cables and wants to rewind them back into the exercise machine, are provided in the exercise machine. These sensors can for example measure the direction of rotation of pulley (140), the speed at which it rotates, or some other parameter related to the motion of the cables or the pulleys around which they are pulled or that of the rotation of the shaft of pump (144). The sensor can sends signals to the processor of the exercise machine, which uses a algorithm of the software supplied to it to determine if the signal relates to a genuine event of is a false alarm caused, for example, by not pulling the cables at a constant speed or stopping to pull. To make this determination additional information, either general or related to the individual user might be supplied, e.g. a threshold value for a pause in the motion of the cable. Once a change in direction of motion of the cables is detected, the processor sends signals to the electric valves in the exercise machine to change from their open to closed state or vice versa. Now regulator (178a) is activated to prevent flow of fluid through pressure release mechanism (152a) and pressure release mechanism (152b) is open. Solenoid valve 200 is activated such that the exit port connected to conduit (204a) is closed and the exit port connected to conduits (206a,b) is open. When all of this happens pump (212) pumps hydraulic fluid out of reservoir (208) through conduits (204b) and (202), solenoid (200), and conduits (206a,b) into conduits (154a,b). Hydraulic fluid can not enter pressure release mechanism (152a); therefore the fluid pumped by pump (212) flows through conduits (154a) and (154b) entering pumps (144) and exiting through conduits (155a) and (155b). The fluid continues to flow through conduits (155a,b), pressure release mechanism(152b), and conduits (220a,b) back into the reservoir (208).

The reversal of the flow direction of the hydraulic fluid through pumps (144) causes their shafts and the attached reels (142) to turn in the opposite direction, thereby rewinding the cable (104). As the cable is rewound, the user continues to grip the handles and works to prevent the cables from being freely rewound by exerting an opposing force that is only slightly less than the force provided by the hydraulic fluid pumped by pump (212) and whose value is determined by pressure release mechanism (152b) to slow down the rewind speed, or equal to the force provided by the hydraulic fluid pumped by pump (212) to stop the movement.

In Figs. 13-70, a user is shown performing a plurality of exercises with apparatus (100) of the present invention. In each exercise, either the position of the user is different and/or the cable is passed around a different pulle5^. Following is a list of exercises that correspond to those performed by the user in the figures. It is understood that this list and the figures contain merely a selection of the plurality of exercises that may be performed with apparatus (100) of the present invention, and is not exhaustive by any means.

Figs. 13a and 13b show a user performing a backwards neck extension in the initial position (Fig. 13a) and final position (Fig. 13b).

Figs. 14a and 14b show a user performing a forward neck extension in the initial position (Fig. 14a) and final position (Fig. 14b).

Figs. 15a and 15b show a user performing a left side neck extension in the initial position (Fig. 15a) and final position (Fig. 15b). Similarly, a right side neck extension may be performed when the user is positioned with his left side facing the exercise machine.

Fig. 16 shows a user performing a shoulder press.

Figs. 17a and 17b show a user performing a lateral raise in the initial position (Fig. 17a) and final position (Fig. 17b).

Figs. 18a and 18b show a user performing a first rowing torso exercise in the initial position (Fig. 18a) and final position (Fig. 18b).

Figs. 19a and 19b show a user performing a second rowing torso exercise in the initial position (Fig. 19a) and final position (Fig. 19b). ■

Figs. 20a and 20b show a user performing a front raise in the initial position (Fig. 20a) and final position (Fig. 20b).

Figs. 21a and 21b show a user performing a shoulder shrug in the initial position (Fig. 21a) and final position (Fig. 21b). Figs. 22a and 22b show a user performing an upright rowing exercise in the initial position (Fig. 22a) and final position (Fig. 22b).

Figs. 23a and 23b show a user performing a bent over rowing exercise in the initial position (Fig. 23a) and final position (Fig. 23b).

Figs. 24a and 24b show a user performing a pull back exercise in the initial position (Fig. 24a) and final position (Fig. 24b).

Figs. 25a and 25b show a user performing a pull front exercise in the initial position (Fig. 25a) and final position (Fig. 25b).

Figs. 26a and 26b show a user performing a rip up exercise in the initial position (Fig. 26a) and final position (Fig. 26b).

Figs. 27a and 27b show a user performing a chest press in the initial position (Fig. 27a) and final position (Fig. 27b).

Figs. 28a and 28b show a user performing a chest press at a 30 degree angle, in the initial position (Fig. 28a) and final position (Fig. 28b).

Figs. 29a and 29b show a user performing a vertical butterfly in the initial position (Fig. 29a) and final position (Fig. 29b).

Figs. 30a and 30b show a user performing a seated chest press in the initial position (Fig. 30a) and final position (Fig. 30b).

Figs. 31a and 31b show a user performing an abdominal exercise in the initial position (Fig. 31a) and final position (Fig. 31b). Figs. 32a and 32b show a user performing a lower back exercise in the initial position (Fig. 32a) and final position (Fig. 32b).

Figs. 33a and 33b show a user performing a conventional rowing exercise in the initial position (Fig. 33a) and final position (Fig. 33b).

Figs. 34a and 34b show a user performing a lower back lift (or, dead lift) in the initial position (Fig. 34a) and final position (Fig. 34b). Figsr 35a- and-35b-βhøw a user performing a seated rowing exercise in the initial position (Fig. 35a) and final position (Fig. 35b).

Figs. 36a and 36b show a user performing a bent arm pullover in the initial position (Fig. 36a) and final position (Fig. 36b).

Figs. 37a and 37b show a user performing a pullover in the initial position (Fig. 37a) and final position (Fig. 37b).

Figs. 38a and 38b show a user performing an arm curl in the initial position (Fig. 38a) and final position (Fig. 38b).

Figs. 39a and 39b show a user performing a 45 degree reverse arm curl in the initial position (Fig. 39a) and final position (Fig. 39b).

Figs. 40a and 40b show a user performing a French curl in the initial position (Fig. 40a) and final position (Fig. 40b).

Figs. 41a and 41b show a user performing a wrist curl in the initial position (Fig. 41a) and final position (Fig. 41b). Figs. 42a and 42b show a user performing a reverse wrist curl in the initial position (Fig. 42a) and final position (Fig. 42b).

Figs. 43a and 43b show a user performing a back stroke pull in the initial position (Fig. 43a) and final position (Fig. 43b).

Figs. 44a and 44b show a user performing a dipping (or, push down) exercise in the initial position (Fig. 44a) and final position (Fig. 44b).

Figs. 45a and 45b show a user performing a leg extension in the initial position (Fig. 45a) and final position (Fig. 45b).

Figs. 46a and 46b show a user performing a leg curl in the initial position (Fig. 46a) and final position (Fig. 46b).

Figs. 47a and 47b show a user performing a leg press down in the initial position (Fig. 47a) and final position (Fig. 47b).

Figs. 48a and 48b show a user performing a leg press in the initial position (Fig. 48a) and final position (Fig. 48b).

Figs. 49a and 49b show a user performing leg adduction in the initial position (Fig. 49a) and final position (Fig. 49b).

Figs. 50a and 50b show a user performing leg abduction in the initial position (Fig. 50a) and final position (Fig. 50b).

Figs. 51a and 51b show a user performing a calf raise in the initial position (Fig. 51a) and final position (Fig. 51b). Figs. 52a and 52b show a user performing a butterfly kick in the initial position (Fig. 52a) and final position (Fig. 52b).

Figs. 53a and 53b show a user performing a breast stroke kick in the initial position (Fig. 53a) and final position (Fig. 53b).

Figs. 54a and 54b show a user performing a hip flexor in the initial position (Fig. 54a) and final position (Fig. 54b).

Figs. 55a and 55b show a user performing a reverse squat exercise in the initial position (Fig. 55a) and final position (Fig. 55b).

Figs. 56a and 56b show a user performing a sprinter kick back exercise in the initial position (Fig. 56a) and final position (Fig. 56b).

Figs. 57a and 57b show a user performing a back extension kick in the initial position (Fig. 57a) and final position (Fig. 57b).

Figs. 58a and 58b show a user performing a side bend in the initial position (Fig. 58a) and final position (Fig. 58b).

Fig. 59 shows a user performing a football kick.

Fig. 60 shows a user performing a basketball throw.

Figs. 61a and 61b show a user performing handball/water polo hitting in the initial position (Fig. 61a) and final position (Fig. 61b).

Figs. 62a and 62b show a user performing a handball exercise in the initial position (Fig. 62a) and final position (Fig. 62b). Figs. 63a and 63b show a user performing a shotput throw in the initial position (Fig. 63a) and final position (Fig. 63b).

Figs. 64a and 64b show a user performing bayonet hitting in the initial position (Fig. 64a) and final position (Fig. 64b).

Fig. 65 shows a user performing a golf/hockey hit.

Figs. 66a and 66b show a user performing a forward tennis/baseball hit in the initial position (Fig. 66a) and final position (Fig. 66b).

Figs. 67a and 67b show a user performing a backward tennis hit in the initial position (Fig. 67a) and final position (Fig. 67b).

Figs. 68a and 68b show a user performing a swimming stroke in the initial position (Fig. 68a) and final position (Fig. 68b).

Fig. 69 shows a user performing a high jump exercise.

Figs. 70a and 70b show a user performing a boxing hit in the initial position (Fig. 70a) and final position (Fig. 70b).

While some embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, it will be apparent that the invention can be carried into practice with many modifications, variations and adaptations, and with the use of numerous equivalents or alternative solutions that are within the scope of persons skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit of the invention or exceeding the scope of the claims.

Claims

CIaims

1. A hydraulic exercise machine for allowing a user to perform a plurality of exercises, said machine comprising: a) one or more closed fluid circuits comprised of conduits; b) means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around said closed circuits; c) at least one cable connected at one end to said means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow; d) grasping means connected to the free end of said cable adapted to allow said user to selectively draw said cable out of said exercise machine; e) returning means adapted to allow said cable to be retracted into said exercise machine; f) at least one pressure release mechanism; g) a regulator system that is adapted to allow said user to set the minimum resistance; and h) electric circuitry, a control panel, a processor, and display means adapted to allow said user to set said exercise machine to desired settings and to operate said machine in order to perform said plurality of exercises; characterized in that said pressure release mechanism is a mechanical mechanism that allows said cable to be drawn from said exercise machine with a predetermined minimum resistance, independent of the speed at which said cable is drawn out from said exercise machine.

2. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the pressure release mechanism comprises a mechanical mechanism comprising the smallest diameter restriction in said exercise machine to the free flow of hydraulic fluid around said fluid circuit, wherein said restriction comprises an opening sealed by a plunger, which is held in place by a spring; and wherein gradually increasing the force exerted by the hydraulic fluid on the face of said plunger, compresses said spring gradually increasing the diameter of said opening from zero until it attains the diameter of the other conduits in said fluid circuit.

3. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around said closed circuits comprise one of the following: a) a rotary hydraulic pump; b) a hydraulic engine; or c) a linear hydraulic pump.

4. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein said grasping means comprise one of the following: a) handles; b) bars; or c) levers.

5. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the returning means comprise one of the following: a) counterweights; or b) a bi-directional solenoid valve, an electric motor that drives an additional hydraulic pump, and additional conduits that are used to route the flow of the fluid in said machine in a direction opposite to that caused by the means for causing hydraulic fluid to flow around the closed circuits.

6. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the regulator system comprises a reversible electric motor, which through a mechanical linkage pushes against the end of the spring opposite the plunger, thereby compressing said spring or allowing it to expand.

7. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the regulator system comprises a solenoid valve, which through a mechanical linkage pushes against the end of the spring opposite the plunger, thereby compressing said spring or allowing it to expand.

8. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein said machine is adapted to allow said user to do only concentric (positive) work.

9. A hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein said machine is adapted to allow said user to do either concentric (positive) work or eccentric (negative) work.

10. An exercise apparatus for allowing a user to perform a plurality of exercises, said apparatus comprising: a) a hydraulic exercise machine according to claim 1.

11. An exercise apparatus according to claim 10, comprising the following: a) an exercise bench for said user to sit or lie thereon when performing an exercise; and b) a platform upon which said exercise machine and said exercise bench are affixed, wherein said platform comprises at least one pivot situated thereon for passing said cable around.

12. An exercise apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the exercise bench is collapsible to a storage position.

13. An exercise apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a back support for selectively joining to and removing from the exercise bench.

14. An exercise apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the height and angle of the exercise bench relative to the platform is changeable.

15. An exercise apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the platform is collapsible to a storage position.