BACKGROUND
Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to exercise equipment, and more particularly, to a bar-bell apparatus having adjustable hand grips for use in weight training.
Description of Related Art
Exercising on a regular basis not only strengthens the body, but also the mind. The numerous benefits of physical activity have given rise to the increasing means by which individuals may keep active. Although one of the oldest types of strength training, resistance or weight training remains one of the most important and popular types of strength training today. Originally using stones and in some instances, calves, weight training has experienced numerous innovations throughout history enabling more efficient and safe training while providing an increasing variation in the means by which one may train.
Early innovations in weight training, and more specifically in free weights, include the halteres developed in Greece in the 2nd century, later evolving into dumbbells, and the 19th century development of the bar-bell. Common to these types of devices is a fixed bar or grip by which the user grasps the device to lift and manipulate. Varying the angle by which the user grasps the grip relative to the axis of the bar can change the muscle that is most affected by lifting the weight, as well as reduce strain on ligaments and tendons. Although dumbbells enable the user to infinitely vary this angle, bar-bells typically include a grip that is fixed relative to the axis of the bar. Thus, in order to target different muscles, the user typically uses a different type of bar for each muscle. Specifically, a straight bar is typically used for general lifting, such as the bench press. To target the biceps, a curling bar is used. These bar-bells typically include a slight wave or bend in the bar at each grip area to rotate the users hands relative to the axis of the bar, reducing the strain placed on the user's wrists while simultaneously increasing the effect of the exercise on the biceps. To target the triceps, a tricep bar is used, having a pronounced wave or bend at each grip to further rotate the user's hands relative to the axis of the bar. Another common type of bar is the Swiss bar which includes grips that are transverse to the axis of the bar, which reduces the strain placed on the user's shoulders.
As can be appreciated, in order to achieve each of these effects a user must have access to each of the above types of bar-bells, which is both expensive and consumes a significant amount of space. In many instances, a user is only able to obtain access to these different types of bar-bells at a gym or other type of strength training facility.
SUMMARY
The present disclosure is directed to a weight lifting apparatus including a pair of weight supports, a pair of handle assemblies coupled to the pair of weight supports, and a central bar interposed between each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies and coupled thereto. Each handle assembly includes a handle housing, a grip that is rotatably supported within the handle housing, and a ratchet pawl. The ratchet pawl is selectively manipulatable from a first position that inhibits rotation of the grip relative to the handle housing to a second position that permits rotation of the grip relative to the handle housing.
In aspects, the ratchet pawl may be slidably disposed within a portion of the grip.
In certain aspects, the handle housing may define a pair of housing half-sections, each housing half-section defining an arcuate first surface and a planar second surface disposed opposite to the arcuate first surface.
In other aspects, the planar second surface may define a counterbore therein. An inner surface of the counterbore defines a plurality of bosses extending therefrom and arranged circumferentially thereon.
In certain aspects, each boss of the plurality of bosses may be spaced apart from one another to form a corresponding plurality of channels therebetween, wherein when in the first position, the ratchet pawl is configured to be received within a channel of the plurality of channels to inhibit rotation of the grip relative to the handle housing.
In aspects, an outer surface of the grip may define a slot therein that is configured to slidably receive the ratchet pawl therein.
In other aspects, the weight lifting apparatus may include a ratchet pawl biasing element that is interposed between the ratchet pawl and a surface of the slot of the grip. The ratchet pawl biasing element is configured to bias the ratchet pawl into engagement with a channel of the plurality of channels of the handle housing half-sections.
In aspects, the ratchet pawl may be slidably disposed within a portion of the center bar.
In certain aspects, the grip may define a pair of half-sections, each half-section defining an arcuate first surface and a planar second surface disposed opposite to the arcuate first surface.
In aspects, the planar second surface may define a plurality of slots therein extending through the arcuate first surface and arranged circumferentially thereon.
In other aspects, each slot of the plurality of slots may be spaced apart from one another. Each slot of the plurality of slots is configured to receive a portion of the ratchet pawl therein to inhibit rotation of the grip relative to the handle housing.
In certain aspects, the handle housing may define a pair of handle housing half-sections. Each handle housing half-section may define an arcuate first surface and a planar second surface that is disposed opposite to the arcuate first surface.
In other aspects, the arcuate first surface of each handle housing half-section may define a pair of diametrically opposed legs extending radially outward therefrom.
In aspects, a leg of the pair of opposed legs may define an arcuate first surface and a planar second surface that is disposed opposite thereto.
In certain aspects, the planar second surface of the leg of the pair of legs may define a cavity therein. An inner surface of the cavity defines a longitudinal tab thereon that is configured to be received within a portion of the ratchet pawl such that the ratchet pawl is permitted to translate thereon but not rotate relative thereto.
In other aspects, the inner surface of the cavity may define a protrusion thereon having a relief defined therein. The relief is configured to receive a portion of a ratchet pawl biasing element therein.
In certain aspects, the ratchet pawl biasing element may be interposed between the relief and the ratchet pawl to bias the ratchet pawl into engagement with the plurality of slots of the grip.
According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a weight lifting apparatus is provided including grasping a grip of a handle assembly wherein the grip is rotatably supported within a handle housing of the handle assembly, retracting a ratchet pawl from a first position where the grip is inhibited from rotating relative to the handle housing to a second position where the grip is permitted to rotate relative to the handle housing, rotating the grip to a desired radial location relative to the handle housing, and releasing the ratchet pawl from the second position such that the ratchet pawl returns to the first position to inhibit rotation of the grip relative to the handle housing.
In aspects, retracting the ratchet pawl may include retracting the ratchet pawl in a slot defined in the grip of the handle assembly.
In other aspects, retracting the ratchet pawl may include retracting the ratchet pawl in a cavity defined in the handle housing of the handle assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various aspects and features of the present disclosure are described hereinbelow with references to the drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a weight lifting device provided in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the weight lifting device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a weight support of the weight lifting device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a center bar of the weight lifting device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a handle assembly of the weight lifting device of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is a rear view of a handle housing of the handle assembly of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a front view of the handle housing of FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a front view of a grip assembly of the handle assembly of FIG. 5;
FIG. 9 is a rear view of a grip housing half-section of the grip assembly of FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a front view of the grip housing half-section of FIG. 9;
FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional view of the grip housing half-section of FIG. 10, taken along section line 10A-10A of FIG. 10;
FIG. 11 is a front view of an opposite grip housing half-section of the grip assembly of FIG. 6;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a ratchet pawl of the grip assembly of FIG. 8;
FIG. 13 is a top view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 12;
FIG. 14 is a side view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 12;
FIG. 15 is a rear view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 12;
FIG. 16A is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 5 shown with the ratchet pawl of FIG. 12 in an initial state;
FIG. 16B is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 5 shown with the ratchet pawl of FIG. 12 in a retracted state;
FIG. 16C is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 5 shown with the grip assembly of FIG. 8 rotated from its initial state;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a weight lifting device provided in accordance with the present disclosure;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the weight lifting device of FIG. 17;
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a center bar of the weight lifting device of FIG. 17;
FIG. 20 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a handle assembly of the weight lifting device of FIG. 17;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a handle housing of the weight lifting device of FIG. 17;
FIG. 22 is a rear view of the handle housing of FIG. 21;
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a grip of the handle assembly of FIG. 21;
FIG. 24 is a front view of the grip of FIG. 23;
FIG. 25 is a side view of the grip of FIG. 23;
FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a ratchet pawl of the handle assembly of FIG. 21;
FIG. 27 is a side view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 26;
FIG. 28 is a side, cross-sectional view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 26, taken along section line 28-28 of FIG. 22;
FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the ratchet pawl of FIG. 26;
FIG. 30 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a leg of the handle assembly of FIG. 21;
FIG. 31A is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 21 shown with the ratchet pawl of FIG. 26 in an initial state;
FIG. 31B is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 21 shown with the ratchet pawl of FIG. 26 in a retracted state; and
FIG. 31C is a front view of the handle assembly of FIG. 21 shown with the grip of FIG. 23 rotated from its initial state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
One aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a weight lifting apparatus having adjustable hand grips for use in weight training. The weight lifting apparatus enables a user to grasp the apparatus at various angles relative to a longitudinal axis. Typically, the angle at which the user grasps a weight lifting apparatus is fixed relative to the longitudinal axis. This reduces the ability of a user to use the apparatus to train different muscle groups and increasing the strain placed upon critical ligaments and tendons during use. As will be appreciated, a weight lifting apparatus employing a grip that is selectively rotatable relative to the longitudinal axis expands the number of muscle groups the apparatus may be used to target and reduces the strain placed upon critical ligaments and tendons.
The weight lifting apparatus includes a pair of opposed weight supports, a pair of handle assemblies coupled to the pair of opposed weight supports, and a central bar interposed between each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies and coupled thereto. As can be appreciated, the pair of opposed weight supports are configured to support a suitable weight plate or other similar device and receive a barb-bell clamp or the like to retain the weight plates on the weight support. In this manner the weight support includes a radially extending flange capable of inhibiting the weight plates from translating further towards the user's hands. Each handle assembly is coupled to a respective weight support.
The central bar is interposed between the pair of handle assemblies and couples each handle assembly thereto. As can be appreciated, once each of the weight supports, handle assemblies, and central bar are coupled to one another, each is collinear with one another and forms a bar-bell type device.
The handle assemblies include a handle housing, a grip assembly, a ratchet pawl, and a ratchet pawl biasing element. Each of the handle housing and the grip assemblies include a pair of half-sections, that when coupled together, form the respective handle housing and grip assembly. The grip assembly is configured to be rotatably supported within a cavity defined within the handle housing. In one embodiment, the cavity of the handle housing defines a plurality of bosses which is arranged circumferentially thereabout. Each boss is spaced apart from one another forming a plurality of channels in which the ratchet pawl. The ratchet pawl is disposed within a slot defined in a half-section of the grip assembly and enables the ratchet pawl to translate therein. The ratchet pawl biasing element is interposed between the ratchet pawl and a surface of the slot of the grip half-housing to bias the ratchet pawl into engagement with a channel of the plurality of channels of the handle housing. In this manner, to adjust the radial location of the grip relative to the handle housing, a user retracts the ratchet pawl to compress the ratchet pawl biasing element and disengage the ratchet pawl from a channel of the housing assembly. The user may then rotate the grip assembly to the desired radial location and release the ratchet pawl such that the ratchet pawl biasing element biases the ratchet pawl into engagement with another channel of the plurality of channels to lock the grip relative to the handle housing.
In another embodiment, the grip assembly defines a plurality of slots on an outer circumference thereof that are configured to receive a portion of the ratchet pawl therein. The ratchet pawl is slidably disposed within a leg of the handle housing and the ratchet pawl biasing element is interposed between the ratchet pawl and a portion of the leg of the handle housing. In this manner, the ratchet pawl biasing element biases the ratchet pawl into engagement with a slot of the plurality of slots of the grip. To adjust the radial location of the grip relative to the handle housing, the user retracts the ratchet pawl to compress the ratchet pawl biasing element and disengage the ratchet pawl from a slot of the grip. The user may then rotate the grip relative to the handle housing to the desired radial location and release the ratchet pawl such that the ratchet pawl biasing element biases the ratchet pawl into engagement with another slot of the plurality of slots of the grip to lock the grip relative to the handle housing. These and further aspects of the present disclosure are detailed herein below.
With reference to FIGS. 1-15, a weight lifting apparatus provided in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated and generally identified by reference numeral 10. Although generally illustrated as being a bar-bell, it is contemplated that the weight lifting apparatus 10 may be any suitable weight lifting apparatus having multiple grips, and in embodiments, may be a dumbbell or other similar weight lifting apparatus. The weight lifting apparatus 10 includes a pair of opposed weight supports 20, a central bar 30, and a pair of handle assemblies 100 interposed between each weight support of the opposed weight supports 20 and the central bar 30. When coupled together, the pair of opposed weight supports 20, the pair of handle assemblies 30, and the central bar 40 are disposed collinear relative to one another defining a longitudinal axis A-A.
Each weight support of the pair of opposed weight supports 20 is substantially similar to the other, and thus, only one weight support 20 will be described in detail hereinbelow in the interest of brevity. The weight support 20 includes an elongated body 22 extending between opposed first and second end surfaces 22a and 22b, defining a longitudinal axis B-B therethrough (FIG. 3). Although generally illustrated as defining a generally cylindrical profile, it is contemplated that the elongated body 22 may include any suitable profile, such as elliptical, oval, hexagonal, or the like. An outer surface 22c of the elongated body 22 defines a radially extending flange 24 thereon at a center portion thereof. The radially extending flange 24 may be disposed on the outer surface 22c of the elongated body 22 at any suitable location depending on the number of weight lifting plates (not shown) intended to be supported on the weight support 20. The radially extending flange 24 is configured to inhibit further translation of a weight lifting plate (not shown) towards the second end surface 22b. It is contemplated that the radially extending flange 24 may be a separate component from the elongated body 22 and may be secured to the outer surface 22c of the elongated body 22 using any suitable means, such as adhesives, welding, fasteners, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the radially extending flange 24 is integrally formed with the elongated body 22.
The opposed end surfaces 22a, 22b define a throughbore 26 therethough configured to slidably receive a portion of a handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 100 therein, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. The outer surface 22c of the elongated body 22 defines a pair of transverse bores 28a and 28b therethrough configured to receive a fastener therethrough to couple a handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 30 thereto. The pair of transverse bores 28a, 28b are disposed opposite one another and are longitudinally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis B-B, although it is contemplated that the pair of transverse bores 28a, 28b may be diametrically opposed to one another.
It is contemplated that the weight support 20 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, extruded, machined from billet, etc. As illustrated in FIG. 2, each weight support 20 is coupled to a respective handle assembly 100 using a fastener 12, although it is contemplated that the weight support 20 may be coupled to the handle assembly 100 using any suitable manufacturing methods, such as welding, adhesives, push buttons spring clips, etc.
The center bar 30 includes an elongated body 32 (FIG. 4) extending between first and second end surfaces 32a and 32b, defining a longitudinal axis C-C. Although generally illustrated as having a cylindrical configuration, it is contemplated that the elongated body 32 may include any suitable configuration, such as elliptical, oval, hexagonal, or the like, and may be the same or different than the configuration of the weight support 20. The first and second end surfaces 32a, 32b define a bore 34 therethrough configured to slidably receive a portion of a respective handle assembly 100 therein, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. An outer surface 32c of the elongated body 32 defines a first and second pair of apertures 36a and 36b therethrough configured to receive a respective fastener 12 therein to couple the center bar 30 to each respective handle assembly 100. In this manner, the first pair of apertures 36a is defined adjacent the first end surface 32a and the second pair of apertures 36b is defined adjacent the second end surface 32b. Each aperture of the first pair apertures 36a is defined opposite one another and longitudinally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis C-C, although it is contemplated that each aperture of the first pair of apertures 36a may be diametrically opposed to one another. Similarly, each aperture of the second pair of apertures 36b is defined opposite one another and longitudinally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis C-C, although it is contemplated that each aperture of the second pair of apertures 36b may be diametrically opposed to one another. In embodiments, the first pair of apertures 36a may be diametrically disposed to one another while the second pair of apertures 36b may be longitudinally spaced apart, or vice versa. As can be appreciated, the first and second pair of apertures 36a, 36b may be disposed in any suitable configuration, such as diametrically opposed, longitudinally offset, or combinations thereof.
It is contemplated that the center bar may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, extruded, machined from billet, etc. Although generally illustrated as being coupled to each handle assembly 100 using the fasteners 12 (FIG. 2), it is contemplated that the center bar 30 may be coupled to each handle assembly 100 using any suitable manufacturing methods, such as welding, adhesives, push button spring clips, etc.
With reference to FIG. 5, each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 100 includes a handle housing 110, a grip 120, a ratchet pawl 130, and a ratchet pawl biasing element 140. Each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 100 is substantially similar, and therefore, only one handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 100 is described herein in the interest of brevity.
The handle housing 110 defines a generally circular or toroidal configuration including first and second half-sections 110a and 110b, although any suitable configuration is contemplated, such as hexagonal, octagonal, oval, etc. Each half-section of the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b are substantially similar, and therefore, only the first half-section 110a of the handle housing 110 will be described in detail in the interest of brevity.
The first half-section 110a defines a generally hemitoroidal or doughnut configuration having an arcuate surface 110c and a planar surface 110d (FIG. 6) disposed opposite thereto. The arcuate surface 110c defines a pair of diametrically opposed legs 112 and 114 extending radially outward therefrom and terminating at respective end surfaces 112a and 114a, defining a longitudinal axis D-D therethrough. Each leg of the pair of opposed legs 112, 114 defines a generally hemicylindrical profile having an arcuate surface 112b, 114b (FIG. 7) and an opposite planar surface 112c, 114c (FIG. 6). As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the arcuate surfaces 112b, 114b are configured to be flush with the arcuate surface 110c of the first half-section 110a and the planar surfaces 112c, 114c are configured to be co-planar with the planar surface 110d of the first half-section 110a. Each end surface 112a, 114a defines a respective relief 112d and 114d extending radially inward therefrom and extending longitudinally inward (e.g., toward the arcuate surface 110c of the first half-section 110). An outer surface 112e and 114e of each respective leg 112, 114 defines a threaded bore 112f and 114f, respectively, and a through-bore 112g and 114g, respectively. The threaded bore 112f of the leg 112 is disposed radially inward (e.g., closer to the center of the first half-section 110a) from the through-bore 112g and the threaded bore 114f of the leg 114 is disposed radially outward (e.g., further from the center of the first half-section 110a) from the through-bore 114g, although other configurations are also contemplated. As can be appreciated, the mirrored configuration of the threaded bore 112f and through-bore 112g of the leg 112 relative to the threaded bore 114f and through-bore 114g of the leg 114 enables each half-section 110a, 110b of the handle housing 110 to be identical. In this manner, when the planar surfaces 110d of two first half-sections 110a are placed adjacent one another (e.g., in a mirrored fashion), a through-bore 114g of either of the two first half-sections 110a is aligned with a threaded bore 114f of either of the two first half-sections 110a. In embodiments, it is contemplated that the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b may differ from one another.
The planar surface 110d of the first half-section 110a defines a counterbore 116 therein defining an inner surface 116a (FIG. 6). The inner surface 116a of the counterbore 116 defines a plurality of circumferentially arranged bosses 116b thereon. Each boss of the plurality of bosses 116b includes a generally trapezoidal profile having a shorter base thereof disposed radially inward of the longer base thereof. The plurality of bosses are disposed 22.5 degrees from one another about the circumference of the inner surface 116a, such that the plurality of bosses 116b includes sixteen bosses. A respective pair of bosses of the plurality of bosses 116b defines a channel 116c therebetween configured to selectively receive a portion of the ratchet pawl 130 therein, as will be described in further detail herein. As can be appreciated, the number of bosses of the pair of bosses 116b defines the number of radial locations at which the ratchet pawl 130, and therefore the grip 120, may be oriented. In embodiments, the plurality of bosses 116b may include any suitable number of bosses disposed at corresponding equal or non-equal angles depending upon the number of radial positions at which the grip 120 is intended to be placed.
The arcuate surface 110c of the first half section 110a includes a plurality of indicators 118 thereon (FIG. 7) arranged in a circumferential fashion thereabout. Although generally shown as being numeric indicators, it is contemplated that the plurality of indicators 118 may be any suitable indicator capable of indicating to the user that the grip 130 is placed in a specific orientation relative to the first half-section 110a, such as letters, roman numerals, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of indicators 118 includes two sequences of the numbers “1,” “2,” “3,” “4,” “5,” “6,” “7,” and “8.” Each sequence includes the number “1” placed adjacent a respective leg of the opposed legs 112, 114, although it is contemplated that each sequence may begin at any radial location on the arcuate surface 110c. As can be appreciated, the number of indicators included in each sequences depends on the number of bosses included in the plurality of bosses 116b.
It is contemplated that the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b of the handle housing 110 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, etc. and may be cast, extruded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b are formed from a cast metallic material.
With reference to FIGS. 5 and 8, the grip 120 includes first and second half-sections 120a and 120b, each defining a generally hemitoroidal configuration such that the first and second half-sections 120a, 120b form a toroid when placed adjacent one another (e.g., in a mirrored fashion). Each half-section of the first and second half-sections 120a, 120b are substantially similar to one another, and therefore, only the first half-section 120a will be described in detail herein in the interest of brevity.
The first half-section 120a defines an arcuate first surface 120c and a planar second surface 120d disposed opposite to the arcuate first surface 120c. Although generally illustrated as having an arcuate first surface, it is contemplated that the first half-sections 120a may define any suitable configuration capable of being rotatably retained within the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b of the housing assembly 110, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. The first half-section 120a includes a grip member 122 extending between diametrically opposed points defined on an interior diameter of the first half-section 120a. The grip member 122 includes a generally contoured upper surface 122a (FIG. 10A) and a planar bottom surface 122b (FIG. 9). As can be appreciated, the contoured upper surface 122a is configured to be grasped by the user, and therefore, may include any suitable profile capable of providing a comfortable grip and enabling the user to securely grasp the grip 120. The arcuate first surface 120c defines a slot 124 (FIGS. 10 and 10A) therein extending into the grip member 122. The slot 124 is configured to slidably receive the ratchet pawl 130 therein and ensure that the ratchet pawl 130 is permitted to translate in a longitudinal direction defined by the grip member 122. The slot 124 is configured to retain the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 therein such that the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 is interposed between an end wall (not shown) defined by the slot 124 and a second surface 130b (FIG. 14) of the ratchet pawl 130 such that the ratchet pawl 130 is biased in a radially outward direction and into engagement with a respective channel 116c of the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b of the handle housing 110, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. In embodiments, the arcuate first surface 120c of the first half-section 120a may include an indicator thereon capable of indicating to the user which hand is intended to be used therewith. In one non-limiting embodiment, the indicator is the letter “R” to indicate use with the user's right hand, and the indicator “L” to indicate use with the user's left hand. As can be appreciated, any suitable indicator may be used that is capable of indicating to the user which hand to use with the respective grip, and in embodiments, no indicator may be utilized.
Although substantially similar to the first half-section 120a, the second half-section 120b of the grip assembly 120 does not include a slot 124 formed therein. Rather, a planar second surface 120e defines a channel 120f therein adjacent the circumference of the second half-section 120b and extending through an arcuate first surface 120g.
It is contemplated that the first and second half sections 120a, 120b of the grip assembly 120 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, injection molded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second half-sections 120a, 120b are formed from an injection molded non-metallic material.
Turning now to FIGS. 12-15, the ratchet pawl 130 defines an elongated body extending between first and second end surfaces 130a and 130b. The first end surface 130 defines a generally blunt or planar configuration transitioning to a generally trapezoidal configuration in a direction towards the second end surface 130b when viewed in a plan view. The trapezoidal configuration of the ratchet pawl 130 is configured to be selectively received within a respective channel 116c (FIG. 6) of the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b of the handle housing 110. In this manner, tapered side surfaces 130c of the ratchet pawl 130 abut portions of respective bosses of the plurality of bosses 116b that defines the channels 116c of the first and second half-sections 110a, 110b of the handle housing 110 to inhibit rotation of the grip 120 relative to the handle housing 110.
An upper surface 132 of the elongated body defines a generally contoured profile configured to engage a user's finger, such as a thumb, such that the user can manipulate or translate the ratchet pawl 130 within the slot 124 (FIGS. 10 and 10A) of the first half-section 120a of the grip 120. In embodiments, the upper surface 132 may include crenellations, grooves, or any other suitable means to provide additional grip. The elongated body of the ratchet pawl 130 defines opposed side surfaces 130d and 130e extending between the first and second end surfaces 130a, 130b. Each side surface 130d and 130e defines a wing 134a and 134b disposed opposite to one another configured to be received within the slot 124 of the first half-section 120a of the grip 120. The wings 134a, 134b inhibit the ratchet pawl 130 from rotating in any direction within the slot 124, such that the ratchet pawl 130 may only translate in a longitudinal direction within the slot 124.
The elongated body of the ratchet pawl 130 defines a lower surface 136 (FIG. 14) opposite the upper surface 132 and extending between the first and second end surfaces 130a, 130b. The lower surface 136 defines a tab or fin 136a extending therefrom configured to be slidably received within the slot 124 of the of the first half-section 120a of the grip 120. The tab 136a provides increased stability and resistance against rotation during translation of the ratchet pawl 130.
The second end surface 130b defines a counterbore 138 (FIG. 15) therein configured to receive a portion of the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 (FIG. 5) to locate the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 and provide increased stability thereto as the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 is compressed and/or elongated. It is contemplated that the second end surface 130b may include any feature capable of capturing or locating the ratchet pawl biasing element 140, and in embodiments, the second end surface 130b may be planar and not include a counterbore 138.
It is contemplated that the ratchet pawl 130 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, injection molded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the ratchet pawl 130 is formed from an injection molded non-metallic material.
With reference to FIGS. 2 and 16A-16C, in operation, the user places the desired weight plates or barbell plates (not shown) over the outer surface 22c of the weight support 20 until the interior most weight plate abuts the radially extending flange 24. Once the desired number of weight plates are placed on the weight support 20, a barbell clamp (not shown) or other suitable device capable of retaining the weight plates on the weight support 20 is placed over outer surface 22c of the weight support 20 and secured thereto to retain the weight plates on the weight support 20. This process is repeated for the remaining weight support 20 until the desired weight is supported on the weight supports 20.
At this point, the user grasps one or both grips 120 of the handle assemblies 100. The user uses a finger, such as a thumb, to retract each ratchet pawl 130 of each respective handle assembly 100. In this manner, the user pulls the ratchet pawl 130 radially inward (FIG. 16A) to compress the ratchet pawl biasing element 140 and disengage the ratchet pawl 130 from a channel 116c of the respective handle housing 110. Once the ratchet pawl 130 is retracted, the user may rotate the grip 120 relative to the handle housing 110 (FIG. 16B) to place the grip in the desired position (e.g., position “1,” “2,” “3,” “4,” “5,” “6,” “7,” or “8”) (FIG. 16C). As can be appreciated, the user may place each grip 120 in a different position relative to one another, (e.g., the right grip 120 may be placed in position “1” whereas the left grip 120 may be placed in position “4”) depending upon which muscles the user intends to target. This process may be repeated as many times as desired by the user.
Turning now to FIGS. 17-30, another embodiment of a weight lifting apparatus is provided and generally identified by reference numeral 200. Although generally illustrated as being a barbell, it is contemplated that the weight lifting apparatus 200 may be any suitable weight lifting apparatus having multiple grips, and in embodiments, may be a dumbbell or other similar weight lifting apparatus. The weight lifting apparatus 200 includes a pair of opposed weight supports 20, a central bar 220, and a pair of handle assemblies 300 interposed between each weight support of the opposed weight supports 20 and the central bar 220. When coupled together, the pair of opposed weight supports 20, the pair of handle assemblies 300, and the central bar 220 are disposed collinear relative to one another defining a longitudinal axis E-E.
The weight supports 20 of the weight lifting apparatus 200 are substantially similar to the weight supports 20 of the weight lifting apparatus 10 described hereinabove, and therefore, will not be described in detail hereinbelow in the interest of brevity.
The central bar 220 includes an elongated body 222 (FIG. 19) extending between first and second end surfaces 222a and 222b, defining a longitudinal axis F-F. Although generally illustrated as having a cylindrical configuration, it is contemplated that the elongated body 222 may include any suitable configuration, such as elliptical, oval, hexagonal, etc., and may be the same or different than the configuration of the weight support 210. The first and second end surfaces 222a, 222b define a bore 224 therethrough configured to slidably receive a portion of a respective handle assembly 300 therein, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. An outer surface 222c of the elongated body 222 defines a first and second pair of apertures 226a and 226b therethrough that are configured to receive a respective fastener 202 therein to couple the center bar 220 to each respective handle assembly 300. In this manner, the first pair of apertures 226a is defined adjacent the first end surface 222a and the second pair of apertures 226b is defined adjacent the second end surface 222b. Each aperture of the first pair of apertures 226a is defined opposite one another and longitudinally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis F-F, although it is contemplated that each aperture of the first pair of apertures 226a may be diametrically disposed relative to one another. Similarly, each aperture of the second pair of apertures 226b is defined opposite one another and longitudinally spaced apart along the longitudinal axis F-F, although it is contemplated that each aperture of the second pair of apertures 226b may be diametrically opposed to one another. In embodiments, the first pair of apertures 226a may be diametrically disposed relative to one another while the second pair of apertures 226b may be longitudinally spaced apart, or vice versa. As can be appreciated, the first and second pair of apertures 226a, 226b may be disposed in any suitable configuration, such as diametrically disposed, longitudinally offset, or combinations thereof.
The outer surface 222c defines a pair of channels 228a and 228b disposed adjacent respective first and second end surfaces 222a, 222b. The pair of channels 228a, 228b extend through respective first and second end surfaces 222a, 222b and extend radially inward into the bore 224. The pair of channels 228a, 228b are configured to receive a portion of a ratchet pawl of the handle assemblies 300 when the center bar 220 is secured to each handle assembly 300, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow.
It is contemplated that the center bar may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, extruded, machined from billet, etc. Although generally illustrated as being coupled to each handle assembly 300 using the fasteners 12 (FIG. 18), it is contemplated that the center bar 220 may be coupled to each handle assembly 300 using any suitable means, such as welding, adhesives, push button spring clips, etc.
With reference to FIG. 20, each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 300 includes a handle housing 310, a grip 320, a ratchet pawl 330, and a ratchet pawl biasing element 340. Each handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 300 is substantially similar, and therefore, only one handle assembly of the pair of handle assemblies 300 will be described herein in the interest of brevity.
The handle housing 310 includes two half-sections 310a and 310b, each being substantially similar, and therefore, only half-section 310a will be described in detail in the interest of brevity. The half section 310a defines a generally hemitoroidal or doughnut configuration having an arcuate surface 310c (FIG. 20) and a planar surface 310d (FIG. 21) disposed opposite thereto. The arcuate surface 310c defines a pair of diametrically opposed legs 312 and 314 extending radially outward therefrom and terminating at respective end surfaces 312a and 314a, defining a longitudinal axis G-G therethrough. Each leg of the pair of opposed legs 312, 314 defines a generally hemicylindrical profile having an arcuate surface 312b and 314b (FIG. 20) and an opposite planar surface 312c and 314c (FIG. 21). As illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, the arcuate surfaces 312b, 314b are configured to be flush with the arcuate surface 310c of the first half-section 310a and the planar surfaces 312c, 314c are configured to be co-planar with the planar surface 310d of the first half-section 310a. Each end surface 312a, 314a defines a respective relief 312d and 314d extending radially inward therefrom and extending longitudinally inward (e.g., toward the arcuate surface 310c of the first half-section 310).
The planar surface 310d of the half-section 310a defines a counterbore 316 therein defining an inner surface 316a (FIGS. 21 and 22). The inner surface 316a acts as a bearing surface against the grip 320 such that the grip 320 is rotatably secured within the counterbores 316 of the half-sections 310a when in an assembled state. The planar surfaces 312c, 314c each define a cavity 312e and 314e therein, respectively, extending through each respective end surfaces 312a, 314a at a first end and into the counterbore 316. Each arcuate surface 312b, 314b define a throughbore 312f and 314f (FIG. 22) therethrough and extending through an inner surface 312g and 314g of each of the cavities 312e and 314e, respectively. The inner surfaces 312g, 314g of the cavities 312e, 314e define a respective boss 312h and 314h extending therefrom, each boss 312h, 314h having a threaded blind hole 312i and 314i defined therein, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 22, the boss 312h of the leg 312 is disposed radially outward (e.g., further to the center of the half-section 310a) from the through-bore 312f and the boss 314h of the leg 314 is disposed radially inward (e.g., closer from the center of the half-section 310a) from the throughbore 314f, although other configurations are also contemplated. As can be appreciated, the mirrored configuration of the throughbore 312f and the boss 312h of the leg 312 relative to the throughbore 314f and the boss 314h of the leg 314 enables each half-section 310a of the handle housing 310 to be identical. In this manner, when the planar surfaces 310d of each half-section 310a of the handle housing 310 are placed adjacent one another and rotated 180 degrees relative to one another (e.g., a mirrored fashion), the throughbores 312f, 314f are aligned with the threaded blind holes 312i, 314i of a respective half-section 310a.
The inner surface 312g of the leg 312 defines a protrusion 312j radially inward of the boss 312h and having a generally square profile, although any suitable profile is contemplated. A relief 312k is defined through an upper surface 312L and a side surface 312m disposed at a radially inner portion of the protrusion 312j. The relief 312k is configured to receive the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 therein. The inner surface 314g of the leg 314 defines a protrusion 314j radially inward of the throughbore 314f and is substantially similar to the protrusion 312j, and therefore will not be described in further detail in the interest of brevity. The protrusions 312j, 314j are disposed on the inner surfaces 312g, 314g of the legs 312, 314 such that when the planar surfaces 310d of each half-section 310a of the handle housing 310 are placed adjacent one another and rotated 180 degrees relative to one another (e.g., a mirrored fashion), the reliefs 312k and 314k of the respective protrusions 312j, 314j are aligned with one another to capture the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 therein.
The inner surface 314g defines a longitudinal tab 314n (FIGS. 21 and 22) thereon that extends in a direction disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis G-G. The longitudinal tab 314n is disposed radially inward of the protrusion 314j and is configured to be received within a portion of the ratchet pawl 330 to provide stability and inhibit rotation of the ratchet pawl 330, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow. The inner surface 312g of the leg 312 defines a window 312n (FIGS. 21 and 22) therethrough and extending through the arcuate surface 312b. The window 312n is disposed radially inward of the protrusion 312j and is configured to receive a portion of the ratchet pawl 330 therethrough to enable a user to manipulate the ratchet pawl 330, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow.
The arcuate surface 310c of the first half-section 310a includes a plurality of indicators 318 thereon (FIGS. 20 and 31) arranged in a circumferential fashion thereabout. Although generally shown as being numeric indicators, it is contemplated that the plurality of indicators 118 may be any suitable indicator capable of indicating to the user that the grip 330 is placed in a specific orientation relative to the first half-section 310a, such as letters, roman numerals, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the plurality of indicators 118 includes two sequences of the numbers “1,” “2,” “3,” “4,” “5,” “6,” “7,” and “8.” Each sequence includes the number “1” placed adjacent a respective leg of the opposed legs 312, 314, although it is contemplated that each sequence may begin at any radial location on the arcuate surface 310c. As can be appreciated, the number of indicators included in each sequence depends on the number of slots 324 included in the plurality of slots 324 of the grip 320 (FIGS. 23-25).
It is contemplated that the first and second half-sections 310a, 310b of the handle housing 310 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, etc. and may be cast, extruded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second half-sections 310a, 310b are formed from a cast metallic material.
With reference to FIGS. 23-25, the grip 320 includes first and second half-sections 320a, 320b (FIG. 20), each defining a generally hemitoroidal configuration such that the first and second half-sections 320a, 320b form a toroid when placed adjacent one another (e.g., in a mirrored fashion). The first half-section 320a is substantially similar to the second half-section 320b, and therefore only the first half-section 320a will be described in detail in the interest of brevity.
The first half-section 320a defines an arcuate first surface 320c (FIG. 23) and a planar second surface 320d (FIG. 25) opposite to the arcuate first surface 320c. Although generally illustrated as having an arcuate first surface, it is contemplated that the first half-section 320a may define any suitable configuration capable of being rotatably secured within the first and second half-sections 310a of the housing assembly 310, as will be described in further detail hereinbelow.
The first half-section 320a includes a grip member 322 extending between diametrically opposed points defined on an interior diameter of the first half-section 320a. The grip member 322 includes a generally contoured upper surface 322a and a planar bottom surface 322b (FIG. 25). As can be appreciated, the contoured upper surface 322a is configured to be grasped by the user, and therefore, may include any suitable profile capable of providing a comfortable grip and enabling the user to securely grasp the grip 320. The planar second surface 320d of the first half-section 320a defines a plurality of slots 324 therethrough and extending through the arcuate first surface 320c. The plurality of slots 324 is disposed adjacent an outer circumference of the first half-section 320a and extends through a radially outward-most portion thereof. Although generally illustrated as defining a rectangular configuration, it is contemplated that each slot of the plurality of slots 324 may define any suitable configuration capable of retaining a portion of the ratchet pawl 330 therein to inhibit rotation of the grip 320. The plurality of slots 324 are disposed 22.5 degrees from one another about the circumference of the planar second surface 320d, such that the plurality of slots 324 includes sixteen slots. As can be appreciated, the number of slots of the plurality of slots 324 defines the number of radial locations at which the ratchet pawl 330, and therefore the grip 320, may be oriented relative to the handle housing 310. In embodiments, the plurality of slots 324 may include any suitable number of slots, depending upon the number of radial positions at which the grip 320 is intended to be placed.
In embodiments, the arcuate first surface 320c of the first half-section 320a may include an indicator thereon capable if indicating to the user which hand is intended to be used therewith. In one non-limiting embodiment, the indicator is the letter “R” to indicate use with the user's right hand, and the indicator “L” to indicate use with the user's left hand. As can be appreciated, any suitable indicator may be used that is capable of indicating to the user which hand to use with the respective grip 320, and in embodiments, no indicator may be utilized.
It is contemplated that the first and second half-sections 320a, 320b of the grip 320 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, injection molded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first and second half sections 320a, 320b are formed from an injection molded non-metallic material.
Turning now to FIGS. 26-29, the ratchet pawl 330 defines an elongated body extending between first and second end surfaces 330a and 330b, defining a longitudinal axis H-H. Although generally illustrated as defining a generally cylindrical configuration, it is contemplated that the ratchet pawl 330 may define any suitable configuration such as elliptical, oval, square, rectangular, hexagonal, etc. An outer surface 330c of the elongated body defines a protrusion 332 thereon at a middle portion thereof and extending radially outward therefrom. The protrusion 332 defines a generally rectangular profile when viewed in a plan view, although it is contemplated that the protrusion 332 may define any suitable profile, such as circular, oval, elliptical, etc. The protrusion 332 defines an upper surface 332a and opposed side surfaces 332b extending between the outer surface 330c of the elongated body and the upper surface 332a. The upper surface 332a defines a plurality of slots 332c thereon configured to enhance the ability of a user to grip the ratchet pawl 330 during use. In embodiments, the upper surface 332a may define any suitable configuration capable of providing increased grip to the user, such as a crenellated surface, a plurality of protrusions, etc. As will be described in further detail hereinbelow, the protrusion 332 is configured to be received within the window 312n of the handle housing 310 such that a user is permitted to manipulate the ratchet pawl 330 to adjust the radial position of the grip relative to the handle housing 310.
The outer surface 330c of the elongated body defines a pair of opposed flats 330d thereon extending along the longitudinal axis H-H that are generally co-planar with the opposed side surfaces 332b of the protrusion 332. Adjacent the first end surface 330a, the outer surface 330c of the elongated body defines a pair of tapered flats 334 extending along the longitudinal axis H-H and extending through the first end surface 330a (FIG. 29). The pair of tapered flats 334 are defined on the outer surface 330c such that the pair of tapered flats 334 approximate one another in a longitudinal direction towards the first end surface 330a. The pair of tapered flats 334 are configured to be selectively received within a respective slot of the plurality of slots 324 of the grip 320.
The first end surface 330a defines a cutout 336 therein extending along the longitudinal axis H-H and is oriented opposite the protrusion 332 and defines a planar surface 336a. The planar surface 336a defines a cavity 336b therein adjacent the first end surface 330a and a channel 336c adjacent to and longitudinally spaced from the cavity 336b toward the second end surface 330b. The channel 336c extends along the longitudinal axis H-H towards the second end surface 330b and terminates approximately two-thirds of the length of the elongated body from the first end surface 330a. As illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, the channel 336c extends radially outward opposite the protrusion 332 and through the outer surface 330c of the elongated body. The channel 336c is configured to slidably receive the longitudinal tab 314n of the handle housing 310, such that the ratchet pawl 330 is inhibited from rotating relative to the handle housing 310. The second end surface 330b of the elongated body defines a counterbore 338 (FIG. 26) therein configured to receive a portion of the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 therein. In embodiments, the second end surface 330b may be planar and not include a counterbore 338 therein.
It is contemplated that the ratchet pawl 330 may be formed from any material having suitable stiffness and durability for use in a weight training environment, such as metallic, non-metallic, composite, or the like and may be cast, injection molded, machined, etc. In one non-limiting embodiment, the ratchet pawl 330 is formed from an injection molded non-metallic material.
As illustrated in FIG. 30, the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 is interposed between the second end surface 330b of the ratchet pawl 330 and the protrusions 312j, 314j such that the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 biases the ratchet pawl 340 into engagement with the plurality of slots 324 of the grip 320. Although generally illustrated as being a coil spring, it is contemplated that the ratchet pawl biasing element may be any suitable biasing element such as a leaf spring, an elastomer spring, a Bellville washer or a plurality of Bellville washers, etc.
With reference to FIGS. 18 and 31A-31C, in operation, the user places the desired weight plates or barbell plates (not shown) over the outer surface 22c of the weight support 20 until the interior most weight plate abuts the radially extending flange 24. Once the desired number of weight plates are placed on the weight support 20, a barbell clamp (not shown) or other suitable device capable of retaining the weight plates on the weight support 20 is placed over the outer surface 22c of the weight support 20 and secured thereto to retain the weight plates on the weight support 20. This process is repeated for the remaining weight support 20 until the desired weight is supported on the weight supports 20.
At this point, the user grasps one grip 320 of the handle assemblies 300 with one hand, and uses a finger, such as thumb, to retract the ratchet pawl 330 associated with the grip 320 that is grasped by the user. In this manner, the user pulls the ratchet pawl 330 away from the grip 320 to compress the ratchet pawl biasing element 340 and disengage the ratchet pawl 330 from the plurality of slots 324 of the grip 320 (FIG. 31A). Once the ratchet pawl 330 is disengaged from the plurality of slots 324, the user may rotate the grip 320 relative to the handle housing 310 (FIG. 31B) to place the grip 320 in the desired position (e.g., “1,” “2,” “3,” “4,” “5,” “6,” “7,” or “8”) (FIG. 31C). This process is repeated for the remaining grip 320 and may be repeated as many times as desired by the user. As can be appreciated, the user may place each grip 320 in a different position relative to one another (e.g., the right grip 220 may be placed in position “1” whereas the left grip 320 may be placed in position “4” or any combination thereof) depending upon which muscles the user intends to target.
While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments.
As used in the drawings and in the description hereinabove, terms such as front, rear, upper, lower, top, bottom, and similar directional terms are used simply for convenience of description and are not intended to limit the disclosure. In the description hereinabove, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure in unnecessary detail.
Patent Grant
11000725
