Patent Grant
12048861
Not applicable to this application.
Example embodiments in general relate to a resistance exercise machine with a slidable carriage and accessories providing for a plurality of exerciser positioning surfaces and gripping handles.
Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such related art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate the novelty and commercial value of a transportable, smoothly operating power spring based resistance training machine that further provides the exerciser with the ability to engage a preferred number of a plurality of power springs of various torque ratings to produce the desired exercise resistance.
An example embodiment is directed to an exercise machine and reciprocating exercise platform and a plurality of platform and handle accessories. The accessories which include a plurality of handles, end platforms, and machine elevating members provide for expanded functionality of the minimally operable machine system.
An exemplary embodiment of a resistance exercise machine with slidable carriage may include a plurality of add-on gripping handles. In another exemplary embodiment, a resistance exercise machine may comprise a plurality of add-on exercise platforms. In another exemplary embodiment, a resistance exercise machine may comprise a jacking mechanism providing for the elevation of either end of the machine relative to the opposed end.
There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the embodiments of the compact exercise machine in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional embodiments of the compact exercise machine that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the compact exercise machine in detail, it is to be understood that the compact exercise machine is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The compact exercise machine is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
Example embodiments will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements are represented by like reference characters, which are given by way of illustration only and thus are not limitative of the example embodiments herein.
Various aspects of specific embodiments are disclosed in the following description and related drawings. Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure relevant details. Further, to facilitate an understanding of the description, a discussion of several terms used herein follows.
The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
The phrase “biasing member” is used herein to mean an extension spring or elastic member that creates a resistance force increasingly proportional to the length of extension.
The phrases “removably attached” and “removably attach” as used herein shall mean a method used to attach one or more optional accessories to the exercise machine described herein. Although the means of removable attachment are not shown or specified, those skilled in the art will appreciate the many well-known methods of securedly connecting at least two assemblies together, including but not limited to threaded fasteners, cam-lock fasteners, weld pins mated with locating keyhole slots, and telescoping tubes with clamps. The method of removably attaching the accessories to an exercise machine as described herein are not limiting, and any alternative method of securing two assemblies together may be used.
A. Compact Exercise Machine with Accessories.
In the embodiment shown in
In this manner, four handles 105a, 105b, 106a, 106b may be provided for the exerciser to grasp during performance of various different exercises. It should be appreciated that more or less handles may be utilized. For example, on an exercise machine 100 with a longer monorail 102, a third pair of handles 105, 106 could be provided in between the first pair 105a, 106a and the second pair 105b, 106b.
It should be appreciated that additional configurations could be supported by the exercise machine 100. For example, the exercise machine 100 may include only right side handles 106a, 106b, with the left side handles 105a, 105b being omitted. This configuration could allow more free movement by the exerciser on one side of the exercise machine 100 while retaining gripping surfaces on the opposing side of the exercise machine 100. In some exemplary embodiments, a single handle 105a, 105b, 106a, 106b could be connected to either side or either end 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100. It should be appreciated that any combination of handles 105a, 105b, 106a, 106b and stationary platform assemblies 104, 107 may be supported by the exercise machine 100.
The manner in which the stationary platform assemblies 104, 107 are connected to the exercise machine 100 may vary in different embodiments. The stationary platform assemblies 104, 107 may in some embodiments be fixedly connected to the exercise machine 100, such as by welding or the like. In other embodiments, the stationary platform assemblies 104, 107 may be removably connected to the exercise machine 100, such as by the use of fasteners, ties, clamps, magnets, frictional engagement, or the like. In some embodiments, the stationary platform assemblies 104, 107 may be connected by mating engagement with the respective ends 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100.
The manner in which the handles 105, 106 are connected to the exercise machines 100 may similarly vary in different embodiments. The handles 105, 106 may be fixedly connected to the exercise machine 100, such as by welding or the like. In other embodiments, the handles 105, 106 may be removably connected to the exercise machine 100, such as by the use of fasteners, ties, clamps, magnets, frictional engagement, or the like.
The shape, size, and configuration of the handles 105, 106 may also vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
With the shape of handles 105, 106 shown in the exemplary figures, a number of gripping surfaces may be provided for an exerciser. For example, when kneeling on the carriage 101, the exerciser could grasp either or both of the arms 145, 146 of one or more handles 105, 106. As a further example, the exerciser could grasp either or both cross members 147 of one or more handles 105, 106, such as when standing upon the carriage 101. As yet another example, the exerciser could grasp a single handle 105, 106 in two places, such as by grasping both arms 145, 146 or by grasping a single arm 145, 146 and a cross member 147 of the same handle 105, 106.
The shape and configuration of the exemplary handles 105, 106 shown in the figures is particularly suitable for providing a wide range of grasping surfaces for an exerciser on an exercise machine 100 which utilizes a movable carriage 101. The arms 145, 146 of each handle 105, 106 extend angularly, with the first arm 145 extending angularly towards the first end 141 of the exercise machine 100 and the second arm extending angularly towards the second end 142 of the exercise machine 100. By utilizing such a configuration, an exerciser may more easily follow the handle 105, 106 by grasping at different points along the arms 145, 146 while moving the carriage 101.
In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the cross members 147 is shown extending substantially horizontally between the respective ends of the arms 145, 146 of each handle 105, 106. In this manner, the exerciser may grasp onto the cross members 147 for any number of reasons, such as for support when lifting or lowering their body with respect to the exercise machine 100. The cross members 147 may also be grasped when performing exercises in which the exerciser is standing upon the carriage 101.
As best shown in
In the exemplary embodiments shown, the arms 145, 146 of the handles 105, 106 extend upwardly at points which are just greater than the width of the carriage 101 so as to allow the carriage 101 to freely pass therethrough. By utilizing handles 105, 106 which extend upwardly at a minimized width, such as the minimum width which allows the carriage 101 (and the exerciser when standing or kneeling upon the carriage 101) to pass therethrough, the effective width of the overall exercise machine 100 (including the handles 105, 106) may be minimized.
Each of the arms 145, 146 is connected at its first end to the cross member 147 as best shown in
The exemplary embodiment shown in
As shown in
The connectors 148, 149 may extend at various angles with respect to the distal ends of the respective arms 145, 146, including at substantially a right angle as shown in the figures. Further, the direction in which the connectors 148, 149 extend may vary in different embodiments, with the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures illustrating connectors 148, 149 which extend towards the exercise machine 100 so as to engage with corresponding couplers 150.
Various types of connectors 148, 149 and couplers 150 may be utilized, and thus the scope should not be construed as limited by the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures and discussed herein. For example, the figures illustrate a mating engagement between the connectors 148, 149 of the handles 105, 106 and the couplers 150 of the exercise machine 100, with the connectors 148, 149 comprising a female connector and the couplers 150 comprising a male connector. Although not shown, the reverse configuration could be utilized, with the connectors 148, 149 on the handles 105, 106 being male and the couplers 150 on or underneath the exercise machine 100 being female.
In the exemplary embodiment of the figures, each of the couplers 150 are illustrated as comprising an elongated member such as a rod, bar, or the like, which extends perpendicularly with respect to the monorail 102 of the exercise machine 100. In the exemplary embodiments shown in
The couplers 150 may be fixedly or removably connected to the exercise machine 100. The first coupler 150a is shown as being connected to the front end 141 of the exercise machine 100, the fourth coupler 150d is shown as being connected to the rear end 142 of the exercise machine 100 and the second and third couplers 150b, 150c are shown as being connected between the first and fourth couplers 150a, 150d. The second and third couplers 150b, 150c may be connected to intermediate support members 108, with the intermediate support members 108 being connected to or positioned underneath the exercise machine 100. The first and fourth couplers 150a, 150d may be connected to the front and rear ends 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100 respectively. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
When at least one biasing member 109 is attached between the slidable carriage 101 and the proximate floor support member 103, a linear resistance force substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the monorail 102 is exerted on the slidable carriage 101 as the carriage 101 is slid along the length of the monorail 102. The linear force exerted against the slidable carriage 101 by an exerciser must exceed the resistance force exerted against the carriage 101 by the biasing member 109 as a means of moving the carriage 101 towards the opposed distal end of the monorail 102.
For discussion purposes herein, when a front of the machine 100 is referenced, the front refers to that one end of the machine 100 shown in the drawing as the proximate end where the slidable carriage 101 rests in a default position along substantially at one distal end of the monorail structure 102 when at least one biasing member 109 is removably attached between a floor support member 103 and the slidable carriage 101.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that commercial value of an exercise machine 100 comprising a slidable carriage 101 and biasing members 109 which induce a variable resistance against the slidable carriage 101 during the reciprocating movement of the carriage 101 relative to the front and back end of the machine 100 appreciates significantly when a line of optional accessory components can be acquired by the exerciser who desires to customize the functionality of their individual exercise machine 100 to support their desired types of exercises that they will perform on the machine 100.
The following series of illustrations direct attention specifically to exemplary embodiments of primary optional accessories, with a more detailed description being provided herein below. While the figures and descriptions herein illustrate numerous example embodiments of accessories to be connected to the exercise machine 100, it should be appreciated that the exemplary embodiments listed are non-exhaustive, and that the exercise machine 100 may be adapted to receive various accessories not described herein.
Certain optional accessories are shown as cumulative beginning by adding a first accessory, then a second accessory, and then a third and fourth accessory in sequence. It should be noted that any one or more of any of the following accessories may be affixed to or removed from the machine 100 without the requirement to affix or remove any other described accessory.
In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, accessories are illustrated as comprising a front end stationary platform assembly 104 which may be fixedly or removably attached to the front end 141 of the exercise machine 100 and a rear end stationary platform assembly 107 which may be fixedly or removably attached to the rear end 142 of the exercise machine 100. Additional accessories shown in the exemplary figures include a pair of front handles 105a, 106b which may be fixedly or removably attached near the front end 141 of the exercise machine 100 and a pair of rear handles 105b, 106b which may be fixedly or removably attached near the rear end 142 of the exercise machine 100.
The handles 105a, 106a may be affixed, or removably attached to the front end 141 of the machine 100. As shown in the drawing, the opposed handles 105a, 106a are positioned on the machine 100 such that the distance between the facing edges of the opposed handles 105a, 106a is greater than the dimension of laterally projecting carriage handle 115 of the slidable carriage 101 as measured transverse to the longitudinal axis of the machine 100. An exerciser positioned on the slidable carriage 101 may grasp the handles 105a, 106a while exerting a linear force against the carriage 101 greater than the force of the biasing member 109 thereby moving the carriage 101 in a direction towards the opposed back end of the machine 100.
It should be noted that the drawing shows that the reversible handles 105, 106 as being substantially mirror images of each other. Further, either handle 105, 106 may be affixed to or detached from the front end or back end of the machine 100 with the left and right reversible handles 105b, 106b proximate to the back end 142 of the machine 100 as just described positioned respectively on the exerciser's left or right side when the exerciser is facing the back end of the machine 100, and the left and right reversible handles 105a, 106a proximate to the front end 141 of the machine 100 being positioned respectively on the exerciser's left or right side when the exerciser is facing the front end 141 of the machine 100.
The figures which illustrate handles 105, 106 being substantially mirror images of one another, and the pair of handles 105a, 106a affixed to the front end 141 of the machine 100 being substantially mirror images of the handles 105b, 106b affixed to the back end 142 of the machine 100 is not meant to be limiting, and individual front left and right handles 105a, 106a, and individual back end right and left handles 105b, 106b may be unique in both functional geometry and positioning with respect to each other with the same effect as substantially mirror image geometry and handle 105, 106 positioning.
A front end stationary platform assembly 104 is shown affixed to the front end 141 of the exercise machine 100 to provide exercisers with a stationary surface for standing or otherwise positioning upon, the assembly 104 comprising a stationary platform 116 with an upper surface substantially coplanar with the upper exercise surface of the slidable carriage 101, and a stationary platform handle 117 providing a hand gripping member with the upper surface substantially co-planar with the upper surface of the stationary platform 101, the inner surface of the handle 117 sufficiently spaced apart from the outer edges of the stationary platform 116 to allow for the insertion of the exerciser's hand or food, the handle 117 substantially encircling the stationary platform 116. One or more platform supporting members 131 of the stationary platform 116 are supported by front end support feet 113.
The front end stationary platform assembly 104 may be affixed to the exercise machine 100 during the manufacturing and assembly process, or may be removably attached to the exercise machine by an exerciser by various methods, including but not limited to those shown in the exemplary figures and described herein.
A reversible left handle 105 and right handle 106 are shown affixed on opposed sides of the machine 100, relatively positioned laterally adjacent to the left and right edges of the carriage handle 115 so as to allow the carriage 101 to reciprocate along the longitudinal axis of the monorail 102 without interference from the reversible handles 105, 106.
The drawing shows that the left and right handles 105, 106 are substantially mirror images of each other, however mirror image handles 105, 106 are not meant to be limiting, and handles 105, 106 of differing geometry may be used without deviating from the present embodiment. Further, the handles 105, 106 may be affixed to the exercise machine 100 during the manufacturing and assembly process, or may be removably attached to the exercise machine 100 by an exerciser in various manners.
A back end stationary platform assembly 107 is shown affixed to the rear end 141 of the exercise machine 100, the back end stationary platform assembly 107 comprising a stationary platform 116 with an upper surface substantially coplanar with the upper exercise surface of the slidable carriage 101, and a stationary platform handle 117 providing a hand gripping member with the upper surface substantially co-planar with the upper surface of the stationary platform 116, the inner surface of the handle 117 sufficiently spaced apart from the outer edges of the stationary platform 116 to allow for the insertion of the exerciser's hand or food, the handle 117 substantially encircling the stationary platform 116.
The figures show a back end stationary platform assembly 107 substantially comprising the same geometry and components as the front end stationary platform assembly 104, however a differing geometry and components may be used without deviating from the present embodiment. Further, the back end stationary platform assembly 107 may be affixed to the exercise machine 100 during the manufacturing and assembly process, or may be removably attached to the exercise machine by an exerciser by various methods.
The exercise machine may be further accessorized by providing a reversible left handle 105 and reversible right handle 106, the handles 105, 106 just described being affixed to an intermediate support member 108 and coupler 150, and to the back end floor support member 103. The reversible handles 105, 106 may be affixed to the exercise machine 100 during the manufacturing and assembly process, or may be removably attached to the exercise machine 100 by an exerciser by various methods.
As can be readily seen, the reversible left and right handles 105b, 106b shown on the back end of the machine 100 may be reversed and affixed or removably attached to the front end of the machine 100. However, the disclosure of substantially mirror image handles 105, 106 reversible to either end of the machine 100 is not limiting, and a plurality of handles 105, 106 comprising relatively different geometries may be used with the same effect without deviating from the present embodiment.
In the exemplary embodiment of
As can be seen, the slidable carriage assembly 101 has been slidably repositioned along the structural monorail 102 distal to the front end stationary platform 104 against the force of the biasing member 109 as previously described. As a result of having elevated the back end of the machine by a back end elevating member 112, the gravitational force G is applied to the slidable carriage 101 in a direction indicated by the arrow, thereby becoming cumulative with the force of the biasing member 109 to increase the total exercise resistance required to move the carriage 101. The added gravitational force varies depending on the weight of the exerciser positioned upon the slidable carriage 101.
An electronic device holder 132 may provide for an exerciser to secure their smartphone or electronic notebook to the exercise machine 100 during exercise. The electronic device holder 132 may be affixed to the machine 100, or be removably attached to the machine 100 at exerciser-preferred locations, for instance upon the cross member 147 of the front reversible right handle 105a as shown by the connecting dashed lines, by clamping, secured with mechanical fasteners, or strapped using hook and loop belts that would encircle the structure to which it is mounted.
C. Rotatable Lifting Handle.
As best shown in
If only one end 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100 is so elevated, the exercise machine 100 will be inclined or declined at an angle with respect to the floor surface 124. When rotated in the second direction, which is opposite with respect to the first direction, the rotatable lifting handle 120 will lower the end 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100 to which it is attached back to its original position, returning the exercise machine 100 to a level orientation.
The shape, size, and configuration of the rotatable lifting handle 120 may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments shown in
The rotatable lifting handle 120 may further comprise an axle 126 which is connected between the arms 152, 153 in a parallel orientation with respect to the lifting member 122. The rotatable lifting handle 120 may rotate about the axle 126, such as when the axle 126 is connected to an exercise machine 100 by one or more axle support members 127 such as shown in
The axle 126 may be positioned at various locations on the rotatable lifting handle 120 so long as the rotatable lifting handle 120 is able to rotate about the axle 126. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
As shown in
As shown in
When the rotatable lifting handle 120 is grasped and rotated in the second direction, the lifting member 122 will rotate back to its original position in which the lifting member 122 is substantially parallel to the floor surface 124 such as shown in
As shown in
The manner in which the rotatable lifting handle 120 is grasped and rotated may vary according to different embodiments and the preferences of different exercisers. For example, in a rotatable lifting handle 120 utilizing a single transverse gripping bar 121 such as shown in
A rotatable lifting handle 120 rotatably movable about a rotation axis 123 transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the machine is shown with an upper portion comprising a transverse gripping bar 121, and a lower portion comprising a lifting member 122. The angle measured radially from the rotation axis 123 between the upper portion and the lifting portion of the lifting handle 120 may exceed 90 degrees so as to create an over-center condition when engaged. The benefit of the over-center condition relative to the rotation axis 123 will become apparent upon being fully disclosed below.
An axle which is substantially aligned with the central rotation axis 123 may be rotationally affixed to the back end stationary platform structure 107. Methods of affixing rotationally movable elements relative to a stationary element are well known to those skilled in the art, and merely for example may include a continuous axle extending between the lateral edges of the opposed left and right side arms 145, 146 of the lifting handle 120, or individual axles affixed to each the left side and right side of the machine 100 structure. Though not shown, the methods of affixing the rotatable lifting handle 120 to the exercise machine 100 structure as just described are not meant to be limiting, and any known method of affixing the rotatable handle 120 to the stationary machine structure may be used.
As can be seen, while in the stowed position, the lifting member 122 may be retained between the floor surface and the underside of the back end stationary platform 107 without the need for any devices or mechanisms to lock the lifting handle 120 in the position shown. The positioning of the lifting member 122 between the exercise machine 100 and the floor surface 124 when in such a position may provide a locking support for the transverse gripping bar 121 or transverse gripping handles 125. At the same time, the upper portion of the rotatable lifting handle 120, specifically the transverse gripping bar 121 or transverse gripping handles 125 that extend horizontally between the left and right handle arms 145, 146, may be securedly positioned for use by an exerciser.
As shown in
The lifting handle 120 may be rotatably affixed to the exercise machine 100 structure by an axle 126 extending along the transverse rotation axis 123 substantially the distance between the lateral edges of the left and right vertical arms 145, 146 of the lifting handle 120, and rotationally secured to the exercise machine 100. As seen in
The location(s) on the exercise machine 100 to which the lifting handle 120 is connected may vary in different embodiments, including but not limited to near or at the respective ends 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100, such as by being connected to the front end or back end stationary platform assemblies 104, 105, or to various other positions between the ends 141, 142 of the exercise machine 100. The exemplary figures should thus not be construed as limiting with respect to where on the exercise machine 100 the lifting handle 120 may be connected, or how many lifting handles 120 may be utilized on a single exercise machine 100.
The number of axle support members 127 utilized, as well as their positioning on the exercise machine 100, may vary in different embodiments and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, a pair of axle support members 127 comprising plate-like members each having aligned openings through which bearings may be connected are shown, with the axle 126 of the rotatable lifting handle 120 being connected through the bearings so as to rotate with respect to the axle support members 127 and the exercise machine 100.
As previously described, as an exerciser pulls the transverse gripping handles 125 in the first direction along the path of the arc as indicated by the arrow, the lifting member 122 rotates under the rear end 142 of the exercise machine 100, thereby elevating the back end stationary platform 107, the proximate end 142 of the structural monorail 102, and correspondingly the slidable carriage assembly 101 and the proximate ends of the reversible left and right handles 106, 105. In this manner, the exercise machine 100 may be easily and selectively rotated into an inclined or declined position with respect to the floor surface 124.
Although the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures illustrate manual adjustment of the rotatable lifting handle 120, it should be appreciated that other methods of adjustment may be utilized to rotate the rotatable lifting handle 120 between various angular positions with respect to the exercise machine 100.
For example, actuators could be utilized, such as by for example one or more actuators connected between the rotatable lifting handle 120 and the exercise machine 100 so as to rotate the rotatable lifting handle 120 with respect to the exercise machine 100 and, in so doing, lift or lower the exercise machine 100. As a further non-limiting example, a first actuator could be connected between a first side of the lifting member 122 and the exercise machine 100 and a second actuator could be connected between a second side of the lifting member 122 and the exercise machine 100. Various types of actuators may be utilized, such as hydraulic, gas, electric, linear actuators, and the like.
D. Carriage Wheels.
In exemplary embodiments, convex, double “VEE” or concave wheels could be used so long as the wheel track 131 (male or female) mates with a corresponding male or female geometry on the carriage wheel 128. For example and without limitation, linear “VEE” groove guide wheels could be used. In such an embodiment, the wheel track 131 would have a ridge and the carriage wheels 128 would have a groove which rides over the ridge.
A portion of the structural monorail 102 is shown incorporating a monorail wheel track 131 on each of the opposed sides of the monorail 102, the tracks 131 extending substantially the length of the structural monorail 102. A slidable carriage assembly 101 which may comprise for example a carriage handle 115 and carriage platform 114 are supported above the structural monorail 102 a carriage support trolley 130.
A plurality of carriage wheels 128 are rotatably affixed to the support trolley 130 on their respective carriage wheel axles 129. As shown in
The number of carriage wheels 128 used to support a single carriage 101 may vary in different embodiments. Further, the positioning and spacing apart of the various carriage wheels 128 used may vary in different embodiments and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures. As shown in
As shown in
In the exemplary embodiments shown in
To maintain alignment of the central axis of the carriage support trolley 130 parallel to the central axis of the structural monorail 102, a male and corresponding female geometry is shown. More specifically, a wheel ridge centering track 135 is incorporated into the monorail wheel track 131 to receive a corresponding wheel ridge 133 and maintain alignment of the plurality of wheels 128 within the corresponding wheel ridge centering track 135 and thus the wheel track 131 overall. A substantially flat portion of the wheel 128 provides for a longer wearing wheel load bearing surface 134, eliminating the requirement for the narrow contact surface of the wheel ridge 133 to support heavy loading.
As best shown in
The shape, size, orientation, and positioning of the wheel ridge 133 may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments shown in
On either side of the wheel ridge 133, wheel load bearing surfaces 134 are shown which engage with and roll along the wheel track 131. As shown in the figures, the wheel load bearing surfaces 134 may be radially offset with respect to the raised wheel ridge 133. It should be appreciated that other configurations could be utilized, such as for example alternate positioning or orientation of the wheel ridge 133, or use of one or more discrete wheel ridge 133 portions which do not fully encircle the circumference of the carriage wheel 128.
As shown in
Therefore, as can be appreciated, the improved centering portion of the trolley wheels 128 that mate with a corresponding wheel ridge 133 in the monorail track 131, and the relatively flat load bearing surface of the trolley wheels 128 that ride on the relatively flat portion of the monorail track provides an improved combination of wheel 128 to track centering and superior load support, thereby eliminating the increased friction between the wheels 128 and wheel track 131, an increase in disconcerting lateral chatter, and loss of fluid reciprocal motion of the carriage 101 along the length of the structural monorail 102.
E. Exercise Machine.
In the exemplary embodiment shown in
In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the exercise machine 200 includes three supports 206, 207, 208: a first end support 206 positioned at or near the first end 202 of the exercise machine 200, a second end support 208 positioned at or near the second end 203 of the exercise machine 200, and a middle support 207 which is positioned between the first and second end supports 206, 208. While the middle support 207 is illustrated as being positioned at the mid-point between the two end supports 206, 208, it should be appreciated that the middle support 207 may be positioned at other locations. Further, in some embodiments, multiple middle supports 207 may be utilized. In other embodiments, the middle support 207 may be omitted entirely.
In some embodiments, one or both of the end supports 206, 208 may function as a handle for tilting and moving the exercise machine 200. As shown in
As shown in
The track 210 may include a first end 211, a second end 212, a first side 213, a second side 214, an upper end 215, and a lower end 216 as shown in
Continuing to reference
As shown in the figures, the first side groove 224 is defined by the upper member 220, lower member 221, and first side member 222. Similarly, the second side groove 225 is defined by the upper member 220, lower member 221, and second side member 223. Although the figures illustrate that the side grooves 224, 225 extend for the length of the track 210 between its first and second ends 211, 212, it should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the side grooves 224, 225 may extend for only part of the length of the track 210.
The grooves 224, 225 of the track 210 may function as guides for the carriage wheel assembly 240 as discussed in more detail below. The first wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 245a, 245b of the carriage wheel assembly 240 may engage and move within the first side groove 224 of the track 210 and the second wheels 246a, 246b, 246c, 247a, 247b may engage and move within the second side groove 225 of the track 210. The flanges on the distal ends of the respective upper member 220 and lower member 221 retain the wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 245a, 245b, 246a, 246b, 246c, 247a, 247b within the respective side grooves 224, 225 and thus prevent the carriage 230 from being disengaged from the track 210.
As shown throughout
As shown in
The carriage wheel assembly 240 is best shown in
As best shown in
Continuing to reference
In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the bias receiver members 242a, 242b may each comprise a wing-like structure which fans out from the outer edge of its respective wheel support 241a, 241b.
As shown throughout the figures, the bias receiver members 242a, 242b are configured to selectively and removably receive and engage with one or more bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b so as to selectively apply variable resistance levels against movement of the carriage 230 for the performance of various exercises. The bias receiver members 242a, 242b thus may include bias receivers 243a, 243b each being comprised of a slot, key-hole, or other type of opening in which the nubs 290a, 290b, 292a, 292b of the bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be selectively engaged.
In the exemplary embodiment shown in
As shown in
In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The carriage wheel assembly 240 may thus include a first connector bracket 248a connected between the first wheel support 241a and the carriage 230 and a second connector bracket 248b connected between the second wheel support 241b and the carriage 230. In some embodiments, the outer carriage handle 250 or the linkage 255 of the outer carriage handle 250 may extend through the first connector brackets 248a, 248b.
Similarly, the carriage wheel assembly 240 may include a first connector bracket 249a connected between the first bias receiver member 242a and the outer carriage handle 240 and a second connector bracket 249b connected between the second bias receiver member 242b and the outer carriage handle 240 such as shown in
As shown in
In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The first vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c are oriented vertically in an orientation which is parallel to the wheel support 241a. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The first horizontal wheels 245a, 245b are oriented horizontally in an orientation which is perpendicular to the wheel support 241a. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The second vertical wheels 246a, 246b, 246c are oriented vertically in an orientation which is parallel to the wheel support 241b. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The second horizontal wheels 247a, 247b are oriented horizontally in an orientation which is perpendicular to the wheel support 241b. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The use of both vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c and horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b aids in maintaining stability of the carriage 230 as it is moved along the track 210. More specifically, the wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 245a, 245b, 246a, 246b, 246c, 247a, 247b engage with the track 210 in a manner which prevents or minimizes any “give” including lateral movements such as jostling or shaking, with the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c engaging with the track 210 to minimize “up-and-down” jostling or movement by the carriage 230 and the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b engaging with the track 210 to minimize “side-to-side” jostling or movement by the carriage 230. Such a feature both minimizes risk of injury due to undesired motion of the carriage 230 and improves efficiency when performing exercises upon the exercise machine 200.
Referring first to the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c, the carriage 230 may include first vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c connected to the first wheel support 241a and second vertical wheels 246a, 246b, 246c connected to the second wheel support 241b. More specifically, the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c may be connected to the inner edge of each of the wheel supports 241a, 241b.
When the carriage 230 is movably connected to the track 210, the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c each engage within the track 210. More specifically, the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c engage with and run along the grooves 224, 225 of the track 210, with the vertical wheels 244a, 244b, 244c, 246a, 246b, 246c engaging with and running along the upper end of the lower member 221 of the track 210 when so connected. The flanges shown in
With respect to the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b, the carriage 230 may include first horizontal wheels 245a, 245b connected to the first wheel support 241a and second horizontal wheels 247a, 247b connected to the second wheel support 241b. Each of the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b may bisect its respective wheel support 241a, 241b, with the horizontal wheel 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b extending through and being rotatable within an opening formed in the wheel support 241a, 241b such as shown in
When the carriage 230 is movably connected to the track 210, the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b each engage with the track 210. More specifically, the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b engage with and run along the grooves 224, 225 of the track 210, with the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b engaging with and running along the outer end of the first side member 222 or second side member 223 of the track 210 when so connected. The upper and lower members 220, 221 of the track 210 prevent the horizontal wheels 245a, 245b, 247a, 247b from disengaging by sliding out of the top or bottom of the respective side grooves 224, 225.
As shown in
The shape, size, and configuration of the outer carriage handle 250 may vary. The outer carriage handle 250 may include a number of gripping surfaces for the exerciser, including a first end 251, a second end 252, a first side 253, and a second side 254. The first end 251 of the outer carriage handle 250 may include a linkage 255 such as a rod, bolt, fastener, or the like which engages with the first portion 237 of the carriage 230 to secure the first end 251 of the carriage handle 250 to the carriage 230.
The second end 252 of the outer carriage handle 250 may extend along and parallel with the second end 232 of the carriage 230 so as to define a space between the second end 252 of the outer carriage handle 250 and the second end 232 of the carriage 230. One or more second connector brackets 249a, 249b may be utilized to secure the second end 252 of the outer carriage handle 250 to the carriage 230 or carriage wheel assembly 240.
The first side 253 of the outer carriage handle 250 may extend along and parallel with the first side 233 of the carriage 230 so as to define a space between the first side 253 of the outer carriage handle 250 and the first side 233 of the carriage 230. The second side of the outer carriage handle 250 may extend along and parallel with the second side 234 of the carriage 230 so as to define a space between the second side 254 of the outer carriage handle 250 and the second side 234 of the carriage 230.
As best shown in
The end platform 260 may comprise a wide range of shapes, sizes, and configurations. The end platform 260 generally includes a front end 261, a rear end 262, a first side 263, a second side 264, an upper end 265, and a lower end 266. The end platform 260 may include a first portion 267 at its first end 261 and a second portion 268 at its second end 262, with the first portion 267 being narrower than the second portion 268. The end platform 260 may include a platform handle 275 which substantially encircles the end platform 260 such as shown in
The end platform 260 may include a platform wheel assembly 270 such as best shown in
Each of the wheel supports 271a, 271b may comprise a bracket structure to which one or more platform wheels 272a, 272b may be rotatably connected. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
The platform wheels 272a, 272b may be utilized to transport the exercise machine 200. The platform wheels 272a, 272b are positioned at the first end 202 of the exercise machine 200 such that, when the second end 203 of the exercise machine 200 is lifted, such as by grasping and lifting the second end support 208, the first end 202 of the exercise machine 200 will engage with the ground surface via the platform wheels 272a, 272b. Thus, by tilting the exercise machine 200, the platform wheels 272a, 27b engage with the ground surface to allow the exercise machine 200 to be transported to another location, at which the second end 203 of the exercise machine 200 may be lowered which disengages the platform wheels 272a, 272b from the ground surface.
As shown throughout the figures, the exercise machine 200 may include bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b which may be selectively and removably connected to the carriage 230 so as to exert resistance force against movement of the carriage 230 in a certain direction. The number of bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b used should not be construed as limiting in scope, as additional bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be utilized in different embodiments. Various types of bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be utilized, such as but not limited to springs, cords, and the like.
As shown in
As best shown in
It should be appreciated that more bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be utilized. The exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, with four total bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b is merely for illustrative purposes, as it is expected that embodiments of the exercise machine 200 may include more bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b than shown in the exemplary figures. Further, in some embodiments, less bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be utilized, such as by use of only a single first bias member 283a and a single second bias member 284a.
Continuing to reference
As shown, the bias member retainer 285 may comprise an elongated member which extends transverse (or perpendicular) with respect to the bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b. The bias member retainer 285 may include a third connector bracket 289 such as shown in
The bias member retainer 285 includes a plurality of retainer slots 286a, 286b, 286c, 286d in which the distal end of each of the bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may be removably secured. When the bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b are so secured to the bias member retainer 285, they do not impart any force against the carriage 230. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the distal end of the first bias member 283a may be removably secured within the first retainer slot 286a, the distal end of the second bias member 283b may be removably secured within the second retainer slot 286b, the distal end of the third bias member 284a may be removably secured within the third retainer slot 286c, and the distal end of the fourth bias member 284b may be removably secured within the fourth retainer slot 286d.
As shown in the figures, each of the bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b may comprise a nub 290a, 290b, 292a, 292b which retains the respective bias members 283a, 283b, 284a, 284b in their respective retainer slots 286a, 286b, 286c, 286d. In the exemplary embodiment shown in
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the compact exercise machine, suitable methods and materials are described above. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and regulations. The compact exercise machine may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.
The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/890,229 filed on Jun. 2, 2020 which issues as U.S. Pat. No. 11,478,677 on Oct. 25, 2022, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/856,173 filed Jun. 3, 2019. Each of the aforementioned patent applications is herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 16890229 | Jun 2020 | US |
| Child | 17964486 | US |
