WO2012108858A1 - Systèmes de tension et procédés d'utilisation - Google Patents

Systèmes de tension et procédés d'utilisation Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012108858A1
WO2012108858A1 PCT/US2011/023883 US2011023883W WO2012108858A1 WO 2012108858 A1 WO2012108858 A1 WO 2012108858A1 US 2011023883 W US2011023883 W US 2011023883W WO 2012108858 A1 WO2012108858 A1 WO 2012108858A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
cable
rotatable
weight
lever mechanism
tension
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2011/023883
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Robert F. Lemos
Original Assignee
Lemos Robert F
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Lemos Robert F filed Critical Lemos Robert F
Priority to PCT/US2011/023883 priority Critical patent/WO2012108858A1/fr
Publication of WO2012108858A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012108858A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
    • A63B21/078—Devices for bench press exercises, e.g. supports, guiding means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/00058—Mechanical means for varying the resistance
    • A63B21/00069—Setting or adjusting the resistance level; Compensating for a preload prior to use, e.g. changing length of resistance or adjusting a valve
    • A63B21/00072—Setting or adjusting the resistance level; Compensating for a preload prior to use, e.g. changing length of resistance or adjusting a valve by changing the length of a lever
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
    • A63B21/0615—User-manipulated weights pivoting about a fixed horizontal fulcrum
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
    • A63B21/0615—User-manipulated weights pivoting about a fixed horizontal fulcrum
    • A63B21/0616—User-manipulated weights pivoting about a fixed horizontal fulcrum with an adjustable moment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
    • A63B21/08—User-manipulated weights anchored at one end
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
    • A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
    • A63B21/4043—Free movement, i.e. the only restriction coming from the resistance
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/03516—For both arms together or both legs together; Aspects related to the co-ordination between right and left side limbs of a user
    • A63B23/03525—Supports for both feet or both hands performing simultaneously the same movement, e.g. single pedal or single handle
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
    • A63B23/1209—Involving a bending of elbow and shoulder joints simultaneously
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0062—Monitoring athletic performances, e.g. for determining the work of a user on an exercise apparatus, the completed jogging or cycling distance
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
    • A63B2024/0093—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load the load of the exercise apparatus being controlled by performance parameters, e.g. distance or speed
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
    • A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
    • A63B21/154—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies
    • A63B21/155—Cam-shaped pulleys or other non-uniform pulleys, e.g. conical

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to cable tensioning systems, and more particularly to unique and compact adjustable cable tensioning systems, apparatus, machines and related methods for use in such applications as weight training, exercising, muscle toning, muscle development, and the like.
  • Weight training is a common form of exercise to increase strength and build muscle.
  • a typical weight lifting apparatus includes a bar that is capable of receiving weights on both ends. The user places the desired weights on the bar, and then lifts the bar so that the weights act as resistance to the muscles of the user. A certain number of repetitions of the lift are performed in order to complete a particular exercise. Typically, the most beneficial parts of the exercise are the last few repetitions where the user may become fatigued, but where maximum muscle strength is developed. Because of the fatigue factor, the user may become exhausted and unable to complete the exercise with the selected weights. This results in at least two problems.
  • the user may be required to stop the exercise, change the weight resistance (which may include both removing and replacing weights), and then resume. This may interrupt critical timing in the exercise.
  • the fatigue experienced by the user is dangerous in that the weights may be dropped or mishandled, resulting in injury to the user.
  • a second person or spotter is typically used to assist the weight lifter to catch the weight in case fatigue causes a problem.
  • a second person is not always available which may expose the weight lifter to unnecessary risk of injury.
  • numerous weightlifting systems have been developed as alternatives to bar and weight systems that employ cable and pulley systems to transfer weight loads, such as those described in U.S.
  • cable and pulley systems have also been developed for use as spotter systems, such as those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,048,826, 5,310,394, 5,314,394, and 6,558,299.
  • none of these inventions provides a simple, compact weight resistance system that has the combined capabilities of (a) providing variable adjustability in the amount of tension (weight) placed on the cable, including automatic tension adjustment (reduction or release) near the end of a set of repetitions when the user is becoming fatigued; and (b) providing an automatic spotting / safety function without the need for a second person.
  • variable and automatic tension adjustability including reduction and potential release (spotting) in a compact tension resistance system that may be adapted for use in numerous different weight lifting methods and apparatus. It is further desirable that such systems provide real time feedback to the user during exercise, and record the results of the user' s exercise for future use.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses, machines, systems and methods for providing adjustable tension to cable, rope, wire, cord, chain, belt, strap or other similar devices (sometimes referred to herein for convenience using the general term "cable") using a pivotally mounted leverage mechanism that is associated with one or more adjustably positionable weights.
  • one or more cables are attached to the leverage mechanism which provides tension to the cable(s). Tension to the cable(s) may be increased or decreased by changing the position of the weight(s) associated with the leverage mechanism.
  • Embodiments of the invention may be used in exercise and other muscle strengthening devices, and may include an electronic control system for monitoring and recording a user's progress, and altering or releasing tension to the cable system based on feedback from the user.
  • Embodiments of the invention may also include a user interface for inputting information for particular exercises or workouts, as well as outputting / downloading information following exercises or workouts.
  • the leverage mechanism includes an elongated threaded screw member that is rotated using a drive motor attached at one end of the screw member.
  • a carriage may be provided in these embodiments that is movably engaged with the screw member so that rotation of the screw member by the drive motor causes the carriage to move along the length of the screw member.
  • rotation of the screw member in one direction will cause the carriage to move in one direction along the lever member, and rotation in the opposite direction will cause the carriage to move in the opposite direction along the lever member.
  • the screw member itself may be pi vo tally (and rotatably) mounted in order to act as a lever.
  • a cable is attached directly or indirectly at or near one end of the lever mechanism or screw member. Tension on the cable is increased or decreased depending on the position of the weight (which may be on a carriage) on the lever member.
  • the carriage may be movably provided on one or more elongated rails, tracks or other supports.
  • the rail, track or support is pivotally mounted in order to act as a lever, and a cable is attached directly or indirectly near one end of the rail, track or support.
  • the movable weight or the carriage supporting the weight may be directly or indirectly attached to any suitable motion imparting device, such as a pneumatic or hydraulic piston assembly, a rod and motor assembly, a threaded screw member as described above, a chain and sprocket system, a motor and belt system, or the like. Movement of the piston, motor, chain, belt etc. causes the weight or carriage to move along the rail, track or other support lever. Tension on the cable is increased or decreased depending on the position of the weight or the carriage on the lever.
  • the carriage may be provided in any suitable form so long as it is movable along the lever mechanism according to the movement of the motion imparting device.
  • additional weight is provided on or attached to the carriage.
  • one end of a cable is attached directly or indirectly near an end of the leverage mechanism, and the other end of the cable is attached to and threaded around a rotatably mounted disc, pulley or sprocket for communication of tension to such disc, pulley or sprocket.
  • the central axis of such disc, pulley or sprocket is attached to a rod.
  • a separate cam is also attached to this rod such that the disc and cam share a common axis in the rod.
  • One end of a second cable is attached to and wrapped around the outside edge of the cam, and the opposite end of the second cable is attached directly or indirectly to a weight lifting bar or the like for communication of tension to such bar.
  • the outside edges of the disc and cam may have a U-shaped cross section in embodiments using a cord-like structure for the two cables in order to receive and guide the cables.
  • Other embodiments may use sprockets and chains or belts, which may be connected, on one end to cables leading to the lever mechanism and on the other end to the lifting bar.
  • tension is imparted to the disc by the first cable, then transmitted to the cam through the rod, and then transmitted directly or indirectly to the lifting bar through the second cable.
  • the amount of tension may be varied depending on the position of the carriage, and/or the associated weight thereon, relative to the point at which the first cable is attached to the leverage mechanism. The tension may also affected by the location of the pivot.
  • the lifting bar As the lifting bar is moved, it pulls on the second cable thereby causing the cam to rotate. This rotation is resisted by the tension imparted to the cam from the leverage mechanism through the first cable, and rod and/or disc.
  • both the cam and disc rotate, causing the leverage mechanism to move through an arc about its pivotal mount.
  • the outside edge of the cam is preferably shaped so as to provide even tension to the second cable to compensate for variations as the leverage mechanism moves through this arc. This shape of the cam helps maintain consistent cable tension throughout the upward and downward strokes of the lifting bar.
  • the amount of tension imparted increases as the carriage and/or weight are moved closer to the end of the leverage mechanism where the first cable is attached (for example, at a point that is away from the pivot); similarly, the amount of tension is decreased as the carriage and/or weight are moved away from the end of the leverage mechanism where the first cable is attached (for example, at a point that is toward the pivot).
  • the leverage mechanisms of the present invention may be provided in different lengths, and that the weight(s) associated with the carriage may be provided in different amounts depending on the space availability and the tension requirements of the user.
  • a relatively short leverage mechanism may be provided with a heavy weight such that slight movement of the weight and/or carriage results in a significant change in tension; but, if a longer leverage mechanism is provided with the same weight the same amount of movement by the weight and/or carriage would provide a lesser change in tension. In some examples, a longer leverage mechanism could allow for a greater maximum tension than a shorter one.
  • the position of the weight and/or carriage is calibrated in order to allow calculation of the amount of tension provided by the leverage mechanism.
  • An electronic interface and processing system may be provided in these embodiments so that a user may electronically select and/or adjust the tension ("weight") placed on the cables by changing the position of the weight on the lever mechanism. This replaces the need to add or remove actual physical weights as in a traditional weight-lifting setup.
  • the electronic system may monitor the user's resistance to tension on the cable during use in order to detect potential fatigue in the user.
  • the electronic system may automatically adjust (lessen) the tension on the cable by causing the weight and/or carriage to move, in order to reduce the tension on the cable and allow the user to stop, alter or continue exercise at a different level.
  • the electronic interface may also provide signals to the user during use, such as digital readouts, alarms, audible commands or the like.
  • the electronic system may also record data from a user's exercise workouts for compilation and later review by the user to measure muscle strength gain, for evaluation, for comparison to previous workouts, for developing future workouts, etc.
  • data recorded through the electronic system may be transmitted or downloaded to another computerized device, including portable and/or hand-held computing devices, either simultaneously with the performance of a workout, or afterwards.
  • the electronic system detects when the lifting speed of the cables decreases or stalls, and automatically / incrementally reduces the tension on the cables so that the speed stays the same. This has the effect of being an "automatic spotter” allowing the lifter to complete a lift with lesser weight.
  • emergency situations e.g., a prolonged stall, or a sudden loss in resistance by the user - which may be measured in fractions of a second
  • the tension on the cables may be completely released or interrupted in order to avoid injury to the user.
  • a separate spotter cable may be provided with a latch or other movement arresting mechanism that may be engaged to prevent the lifting bar from falling on the user.
  • embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in various exercise machines.
  • embodiments of the invention may be implemented in weight lifting systems, bench press systems, squat systems, knee lift systems, hand or arm pull systems, leg presses, calf raisers, and others.
  • Embodiments of the present invention may be used at gymnasiums, in the medical field for strengthening, development and/or rehabilitation of infirm or injured persons, and in weight or strength training camps.
  • variable and automatic cable tension adjustability including tension reduction and potential tension release, in a compact tension resistance system that may be adapted for use in numerous different exercise or strengthening methods and apparatus.
  • Fig. 1 is a sectional side sectional view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the middle of a stroke, resting on supports.
  • Fig. 2 is a sectional side sectional view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the top of a stroke.
  • Fig. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the top of a stroke.
  • Fig. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the bottom of a stroke.
  • Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the top of a stroke.
  • Fig. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the middle of a stroke.
  • Fig. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing a lifting bar near the bottom of a stroke.
  • Fig. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a leverage mechanism of the present invention.
  • Fig. 9 is a partially exploded view of the leverage mechanism of Fig. 8.
  • Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cam and disc assembly of the present invention.
  • Fig. 11 is a front view of the assembly of Fig. 10.
  • Fig. 12 is a top view of the assembly of Fig. 10.
  • Fig. 13 is a side view of the assembly of Fig. 10.
  • Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 15 is a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 16 is a partially cut-away sectional side view of an embodiment of the invention incorporating an emergency tension interruption apparatus.
  • Fig. 17 is a side view of a part of the emergency tension interruption apparatus of Fig.
  • Fig. 18 is an end view of a part of the emergency tension interruption apparatus of Fig.
  • Fig. 19 is a top view of a part of the emergency tension interruption apparatus of Fig.
  • Fig. 20 is a side view of a part of the emergency tension interruption apparatus of Fig.
  • Fig. 21 is a side view of a part of the emergency tension interruption apparatus of Fig.
  • a leverage system for installation inside a cabinet or frame 19 comprising an elongated member 20 having a track 21 (see Fig. 9) for supporting a movable carriage 25 using wheels, guides or other supports 26.
  • At least one weight 24 is provided with, on or made a part of carriage 25.
  • Member 20 is pivotally mounted at 23 so that it may operate as a lever. It is to be appreciated that in other embodiments (such as the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 15), that weight 24 may be movably provided directly on lever member 20.
  • a threaded screw 29 is provided in parallel with lever member 20.
  • a drive motor 30 is provided, preferably at one end of screw 29, to impart rotation to it.
  • a threaded bore (see Fig. 9) is provided in carriage 25 for receiving screw 29, so that as screw 29 is turned by motor 30, carriage 25 moves along the length of screw 29. It is to be appreciated that turning screw 29 in one direction will cause carriage 25 to move towards motor 30, and turning screw 29 in the opposite direction will cause carriage 25 to move away from motor 30.
  • weight 24 may be movably provided directly on lever member 20 and that screw 29 may be threaded through a bore in weight 24 itself.
  • motor 30 and screw 29 can be replaced with a piston engaged with the carriage 25.
  • first cable 35 is attached near one end of lever member 20, at a distance from pivot 23.
  • the opposite end of cable 35 is wrapped around an outside edge of a rotatable circular disc 37 and may be anchored thereto.
  • Disc 37 is attached to a rod 38 that is rotatably mounted a distance from the end of lever member 20.
  • a cam 39 is also attached to rod 38 and/or disc 37. It is to be appreciated that disc 37 may have a round circumference, but that cam 39 may not.
  • Rotation of disc 37 causes cable 35 to impart a pulling force at the end of lever member 20 where cable 35 is attached, which causes this proximal end of lever member 20 to move in an arcuate direction about pivot 23. The closer that weight 24 (with or without carriage 25) is to this proximal end of lever member 20 and/or the point of attachment of first cable 35, the more pulling force is required through cable 35 to move lever member 20 in the arcuate direction 52.
  • One end of a second cable 42 is wrapped around an outside edge of cam 39 and may be anchored thereto.
  • the opposite end of this cable is attached directly or indirectly to a lifting bar 49.
  • Cable 42 is preferably split, or otherwise functionally divided, and threaded through one or more pulleys 43, terminating at opposite ends of lifting bar 49.
  • cable 42 may be attached to a separate pulley 45 that is engaged with a third cable 51, the ends of which are attached near the ends of bar 49 (See, e.g., Fig. 14). It is to be appreciated that as bar 49 is lifted as shown in Figs. 3-4, a pulling force is transmitted through cable 42 to cam 39.
  • This force is transmitted directly, or through rod 38, to disc 37, and then through cable 35 to the proximal end of lever member 20.
  • Resistance to this force is provided by the weight 24, which may be provided on carriage 25.
  • the amount of resistance may be changed by changing the position of weight 24 and/or carriage 25 on lever member 20.
  • the movement of weight 24 on carriage 25 in the embodiments of Figs. 2-9 is accomplished by the operation of motor 30, encoder 31 and screw 29.
  • the outside edge of cam 39 may be shaped so as to keep the tension on cable 42 and lifting bar 49 consistent, in order to compensate for the upward/downward stroke of the bar 49 and the corresponding arcuate movement 52 of lever 20. It is to be appreciated that the shape of such a cam is related, among other things, to the length of the distance between pivot 23 and the proximal end of lever 20.
  • Figs. 10-13 Detail of an exemplary cam and disc assembly are shown in Figs. 10-13.
  • one end of cable 35 is attached to the proximal end of lever 20, and the opposite end is wrapped over an outside edge of disc 37, and attached thereto.
  • the position of weight 24 on lever 20 determines the amount of tension provided through cable 35 to disc 37.
  • Disc 37 is attached to central rod 38.
  • Cam 39 is also attached to central rod 38.
  • disc 37 and cam 39 may be engaged together, for example, and without limitation, by rivets, screws, and/or bolts.
  • disc 37 and cam 39 can both be integrated on a unitary material, for example, and without limitation, by injection molding or casting. These alternative embodiments eliminate the need for rod 38.
  • Fig. 3 shows the position of an exemplary leverage system of the present invention near the top of a lifting stroke
  • Fig. 4 shows the change in position near the bottom of a lifting stroke.
  • Fig. 5 shows the position of an exemplary leverage system of the present invention near the top of a lifting stroke
  • Fig. 6 shows the change in position near the middle of a lifting stroke
  • Fig. 7 shows the change in position near the bottom of a lifting stroke.
  • some embodiments of the invention may include an electronic system 53 having either manual inputs such as buttons, dials, switches, or the like (including without limitation one or more keypads), and/or electronic inputs and outputs such as a magnetic or optical reader, USB or other port, etc. provided on or with a user interface 54.
  • a display is also provided in preferred embodiments of the user interface 54. The user may input his/her identity and other information regarding the desired workout using any of these inputs (keypad, manual ID number input, magnetic ID card, upload from a portable electronic device, etc.).
  • Embodiments of the system 53 maintain information about each user and workouts performed by that user, from inputs on interface 53 or other data sources, discussed more fully below, for later review and/or download.
  • a user's workout parameters may include such things as, without limitation, the weight(s) (tension) to be applied during a particular workout; number of repetitions for the workout; desired time interval(s) between repetitions and/or a time to complete the entire workout; any scheduled changes to be made to the tension during the workout (e.g. increasing, decreasing and/or alternating tension for different repetitions in the workout); ranges of acceptable deviations from any of tension, repetitions, time interval(s), etc.; and/or whether or not to record feedback from the workout. It is to be appreciated that different combinations of these selections may be made by the user to more particularly tailor a given workout or exercise regimen.
  • Some embodiments of the invention include a port or networking link 56 that allows data stored in the electronic system of the present invention to be accessed and/or downloaded, directly or indirectly, from or onto another device, such as a PDA, iPod, local storage, removable storage, network storage, network computer, or the like.
  • a port or networking link 56 that allows data stored in the electronic system of the present invention to be accessed and/or downloaded, directly or indirectly, from or onto another device, such as a PDA, iPod, local storage, removable storage, network storage, network computer, or the like.
  • the programmable electronic system 53 is provided to control, among other things, motor 30 and the position of carriage 25 and/or weight 24 on lever mechanism 20 via screw 29.
  • An encoder 31 is provided with motor 30, which is preferably a servo motor. Encoder 31 is calibrated in conjunction with motor 30, shaft 29, and weight 24 so that system 53 knows the precise position of weight 24 on lever 20 which can be used to determine the amount of weight (tension) provided on cable 35. The precision of the amount of weight provided depends on the type of encoder used, but in an exemplary embodiment, encoder 31 may count as many as 10,000 pulses for each rotation of shaft 29, although other less-precise encoders may be used and still provide satisfactory precision.
  • a servo motor 30 and associated encoder 31 are provided in a roughly parallel orientation with lever 20.
  • One end of motor 30 and a corresponding end of lever 20 are each provided with a rotatable wheel or sprocket around which a belt, chain, cable or other motion transmitter is provided to transfer rotational movement from the wheel or sprocket 60 on motor 30 to the wheel or sprocket 61 on lever 20.
  • Wheel 61 is, in turn, associated with movable weight 24 such that rotation in one direction causes weight 24 to move in one direction along lever 20, and rotation in the opposite direction causes weight 24 to move in the opposite direction along lever 20.
  • a user may select a desired amount of tension (for example, and without limitation, 140 lbs.), and in response, the system 53 operates motor 30 to move weight / carriage 24/25 to an appropriate location on lever 20 to provide the requested resistance to the cables leading to lifting bar 49.
  • System 53 may or may not use an additional controller or other driver 55 to operate motor 30.
  • the user interface 54 preferably includes controls that are easy to read and use, that are positioned close to the user, so that, if desired, adjustments in tension may be easily and quickly accomplished before, after or even during a set of repetitions.
  • Another encoder 32 is provided with rod 38, as shown in Fig. 14.
  • the programmable electronic system 53 monitors information received from encoder 32 which indicates the time and distance expended by the user during lifting repetitions. When this information is combined with the weight position information from encoder 31, system 53 can indicate the amount of force, energy, or other exercise parameters expended by the user.
  • the system is preferably programmed to move the weight / carriage 24/25 in order to reduce the tension on the cables, if a decrease in the force provided by the user is detected through encoder 32. This reduction in tension is accomplished in real time, and may help the user to maintain consistency in the amount of time the user takes to complete a repetition by, for example, lowering tension level.
  • the programming in system 53 may cause motor 30 to rapidly move weight 24 away from the proximal end of lever 20, so as to release or reduce tension to the cables leading to the lifting rod 49, thereby acting as a spotter, to avoid injury to the user.
  • a ratchet system such as that shown in Figs. 16-21 may be provided with disc 37, rod 38 and/or cam 39.
  • the ratchet system may be engaged to prevent disc 37, rod 38 and/or cam 39 from rotating backwards, thereby acting as a spotter and preventing any tension from being imparted to bar 49.
  • cam 39 is provided with a plurality of slotted openings 66.
  • a safety latch housing 68 is provided supporting a spring-loaded latch 70. Latch 70 is designed to fit into one of the openings 66 of cam 39.
  • coil 69 may be activated in order to pull pin 72 from latch 70, causing springs 71 to urge latch 70 forward for engagement into the nearest opening 66, thereby preventing rotation of cam 39, and preventing tension from being transmitted to bar 49 through cable 42.
  • spotter devices may be used including without limitation, devices to arrest movement of the cables, devices to disconnect or detach (release) one or more cables, etc.
  • the ratchet system (including the latch and openings described above) can be used in conjunction with the disc 37, rod 38, or some other device rotatable around rod 38.
  • the safety system can include a separate device engaged with the rod 38, such as a mechanical or electromechanical brake.
  • one or more additional hold-off or safety cables (not shown) may be attached to the lifting bar 49, and to a safety mechanism similar to that shown in Fig. 16. Should the system detect fatigue in the user, this safety mechanism may be engaged so that the safety cable(s) arrest downward movement of the lifting bar to prevent it from falling or landing on the user.
  • motor 30 upon each start-up, preferably moves the weight 24 back to a given home or start position such as 57, and may also perform diagnostics or other internal tests to ensure calibration of the system and encoders. It is expected that the system calibration may be certified by a local city or state weight and measurement department to confirm delivered tension (weight) to bar 49.
  • Additional programming may be provided in the electronic system to allow the user to designate different amounts of tension/resistance for different repetitions of a set.
  • the user may program the first five repetitions of a set to be at 140 lbs., and the next five to be at 120 lbs.
  • system 53 will cause weight 24 to be moved after the first five repetitions to a different position on lever 20 in order to change the tension on cables from 140 lbs. to 120 lbs.
  • a user may set a total number of repetitions at a given tension or tension reduction per repetition; or the user may establish a second set of repetitions with a lower or higher tension such as: 10 repetitions at 120 pounds tension; or 15 repetitions at 120 pounds tension, then back off or add 1 ⁇ 2 to 20 pounds per repetition; or a first set of repetitions at one tension, followed by a second set of repetitions at a lower or higher tension.
  • the user may program alternating, increasing, decreasing or other variations in tension (weight) for different strokes or repetitions during one or more workouts.
  • a predefined weight lifting program can be stored in the system, provided through interface 54 or link 56.
  • a user may select a total number of repetitions and a weight (tension) start point.
  • the system 53 may then reduce or hold a selected amount of weight for every stroke until the repetition count is completed.
  • the user may enter 150 pounds for the start weight and 10 repetitions.
  • the user also sets the weight to be reduced per stroke from a range of 1 ⁇ 2 pound steps to 20 pounds per stroke.
  • the tension is changed, for example, by 1 ⁇ 2 pound each repetition. At the end of the 10 repetitions, the tension is removed, leaving the weight of the bar 49 only.
  • encoder 32 on shaft 38 may be used to keep track of the total stroke distance.
  • the system may require the user to go through a set of repetitions (e.g. 5 of them) at a low tension to learn the users stroke distance and save it in association with the user's ID. This information is gleaned from encoder 32 as the user causes shaft 38 to rotate during each repetition.
  • the system may also require the user to hold bar 49 (perhaps at 3 ⁇ 4 stroke) as the tension is increased, while at the same time monitoring any movement on shaft 38 to determine the approximate strength abilities of the user.
  • the stroke and/or strength information may then be used later during this user's workouts; for example, during a later workout, as encoder 32 monitors the stroke distances for the user, the system may reduce tension (by moving weight 24 on lever 20) if it detects that the user is not reaching his/her pre-determined stroke distance during a set of repetitions. This reduction in tension may enable the user to continue reaching the full stroke distance albeit at a lower tension (weight).
  • the weight reduction information may also be recorded so that the user may review it after the workout to see when and by how much the weight was reduced in order for the user to complete a given workout while maintaining the same stroke distance. This feature may be enabled or disabled at the discretion of the user.
  • encoder 32 on shaft 38 may be used to keep track of the time it takes for a user to complete each stroke.
  • an initial time benchmark may be established for a user to complete one stroke and/or an average time may be calculated for a user based on strokes completed during one or more actual workouts.
  • the system may reduce tension (by moving weight 24 on lever 20) if it detects that the user is taking more time than the benchmark / average stroke time during a set of repetitions. This reduction in tension may enable the user to continue reaching the full stroke within the average / benchmark time albeit at a lower tension (weight).
  • the weight reduction information may also be recorded so that the user may review it after the workout to see when and by how much the weight was reduced in order for the user to complete a given workout while maintaining the same stroke time. This feature may be enabled or disabled at the discretion of the user.
  • embodiments of the invention may be set to reduce or eliminate the tension to bar 49 if the user holds the bar in a fixed position for a minimal time interval (timeout) following the start of movement in a repetition— indicating fatigue (inability to move the bar further).
  • the timeout may be any appropriate pre-set time interval, but should be short enough to avoid injury yet long enough not to interrupt an otherwise normal workout.
  • a total time for a series of repetitions may be established by the user and if that time is exceeded, then tension to bar 49 may be released. Recording of any or all of this information may be enabled or disabled at the discretion of the user.

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

Abstract

La présente invention se rapporte à des machines, à des appareils, à des systèmes et à des procédés permettant de transmettre une tension ajustable à un système à câble à l'aide d'un mécanisme de levier monté pivotant qui utilise un poids qui peut être positionné de façon réglable. Des modes de réalisation sont utilisés dans des dispositifs d'exercice et dans d'autres dispositifs de raffermissement des muscles et peuvent comprendre un système de commande électronique destiné à surveiller, enregistrer les progrès d'un utilisateur et à modifier ou à libérer la tension sur le système à câble en fonction du retour de l'utilisateur. Des modes de réalisation comprennent une interface utilisateur destinée à saisir des informations pour des exercices particuliers ou des séances d'entraînement particulières et à transmettre/télécharger des informations après les exercices ou les séances d'entraînement.
PCT/US2011/023883 2011-02-07 2011-02-07 Systèmes de tension et procédés d'utilisation WO2012108858A1 (fr)

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2011/023883 WO2012108858A1 (fr) 2011-02-07 2011-02-07 Systèmes de tension et procédés d'utilisation

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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3573865A (en) * 1968-10-02 1971-04-06 Paramount Health Equip Corp Weight shifting mechanism for exercising
US4471956A (en) * 1982-08-30 1984-09-18 Marlo Stephen M Bench press lifting aid
US4763897A (en) * 1986-09-05 1988-08-16 Yakata Brian T Exercise machine with adjustably positioned bar
US5048826A (en) * 1990-08-23 1991-09-17 Ryan William C Safety apparatus for use with barbell assembly
US7029426B1 (en) * 2003-02-03 2006-04-18 Fuller Sr Barney R Exercise machine for conditioning athletes
US7575537B2 (en) * 2007-11-06 2009-08-18 Fitness Tools, Llc Dual direction exercise treadmill for simulating a dragging or pulling action with a user adjustable constant static weight resistance
US7591771B2 (en) * 2004-12-20 2009-09-22 Julia A. Redding Apparatus and method for facilitating the safe lifting of free weights
US20100216600A1 (en) * 2009-02-25 2010-08-26 Noffsinger Kent E High efficiency strength training apparatus

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3573865A (en) * 1968-10-02 1971-04-06 Paramount Health Equip Corp Weight shifting mechanism for exercising
US4471956A (en) * 1982-08-30 1984-09-18 Marlo Stephen M Bench press lifting aid
US4763897A (en) * 1986-09-05 1988-08-16 Yakata Brian T Exercise machine with adjustably positioned bar
US5048826A (en) * 1990-08-23 1991-09-17 Ryan William C Safety apparatus for use with barbell assembly
US7029426B1 (en) * 2003-02-03 2006-04-18 Fuller Sr Barney R Exercise machine for conditioning athletes
US7591771B2 (en) * 2004-12-20 2009-09-22 Julia A. Redding Apparatus and method for facilitating the safe lifting of free weights
US7575537B2 (en) * 2007-11-06 2009-08-18 Fitness Tools, Llc Dual direction exercise treadmill for simulating a dragging or pulling action with a user adjustable constant static weight resistance
US20100216600A1 (en) * 2009-02-25 2010-08-26 Noffsinger Kent E High efficiency strength training apparatus

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