Patent Application
20240424336
The present disclosure relates generally to an adjustable weight set, and clamps therefor as well as methods of using such adjustable weight sets.
Clamps for weightlifting handlebars are commonly used to secure weights, such as metal or plastic weight plates, to a handlebar. The desired amount of weight is placed onto each end of the handlebar. A clamp is then slid onto each end of the handlebar. Once each of the handlebar clamps is placed against the weight plates, both clamps are secured, or fixed, in place. The clamps prevent the weight plates from sliding off the handlebar while the user is completing various exercises.
Adjustable weight apparatuses are used for various strength exercises. Adjustable weight apparatuses allow the user to have a variety of weight options for the use with a single handlebar type, such as a dumbbell handlebar. Adjustable weight apparatuses also save space. The user can have a variety of weight options, such as dumbbell weight options, without needing space to store a plurality of full dumbbells. However, current adjustable weight apparatuses are designed to work with a single handlebar type. Therefore, the user is limited to exercises involving the single handlebar type that is compatible with the adjustable weight apparatus.
It would be advantageous to provide a selectable clamp for various weightlifting handlebars to provide an improved device that addresses one or more of the aforementioned issues.
One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method of interchanging weightlifting handlebars on an adjustable weight set. The method includes opening a first clamp on a first end of the adjustable weight set to disengage a first end of a weightlifting handlebar and opening a second clamp on a second end of the adjustable weight set to disengage a second end of the weightlifting handlebar. The method also includes removing the weightlifting handlebar from the first clamp and the second clamp. The method further includes inserting another weightlifting handlebar into the first clamp and the second clamp, closing the first clamp on the first end of the adjustable weight set to engage a first end of the other weightlifting handlebar, and closing the second clamp on the second end of the adjustable weight set to engage a second end of the other weightlifting handlebar.
Another embodiment relates to a clamp for a barbell including a first clamp plate set. The first clamp plate set includes a first front clamp plate. The first front clamp plate includes a first pivot point positioned on a first horizontal plane, a first slot positioned on a second horizontal plane above the first pivot point, a first latch opening positioned above the first slot on an outer edge of the first front clamp plate, and a first clamp jaw positioned on an inner edge of the first front clamp between the first pivot point and the first slot. The first front clamp plate includes a first projection positioned below the first clamp jaw. The clamp also includes a second front clamp plate positioned opposite the first front clamp plate. The second front clamp plate includes a second pivot point positioned opposite the first pivot point on the first horizontal plane, a second slot positioned opposite the first slot on the second horizontal plane, and a second latch opening positioned above the second slot and opposite the first latch opening. The clamp also includes a latch. The latch includes a first part comprising a first pin configured to selectively engage the first latch opening and the second latch opening, and a second part. The second part includes a second pin coupling the second part to the second latch opening, and a third pin coupled to a release lever. The release lever is positioned through the second part and configured to engage with the first clamp plate set and rotate about the third pin. The second part also includes a joint positioned between the second pin and the third pin coupling the first part to the second part. The clamp also includes a back plate comprising a plurality of bushings extending through each of the first pivot point, the first slot, the second pivot point, and the second slot. The plurality of bushings is configured to receive a plurality of screws. The outer edge of the first front clamp plate and an outer edge of the second front clamp plate are configured to move inward towards a central axis.
A selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar provides a hassle-free solution for using an adjustable weight apparatus with a plurality of different handlebars.
Referring generally to the FIGURES, disclosed herein is a selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 for weightlifting that generally includes a selectable clamp 102, a weightlifting handlebar 104, and a plurality of selectable weights 106. The selectable clamp provides a secure, but quick release latch for releasably engaging and connecting any of a variety of weightlifting handlebars to weights in an adjustable weight set. When a user desires to change the weightlifting handlebar in the adjustable weight set, the clamp is released and the handlebar is disengaged from the weight set, permitting a different handlebar to be used with the adjustable weight set. In this way, any of a wide variety of weightlifting handlebars can be associated with (e.g. used with, sold with, sold for use with, etc.) a single adjustable weight set. The selectable clamp further includes a first clamp plate set 402 and a second clamp plate set 404. The first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 are pivotally movable relative to each other. The selectable clamp 102 further includes a latch 408. The latch 408 may be selectively coupled to the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. The latch 408 is configured to secure the selectable clamp 102 around the weightlifting handlebar 104.
Referring more particularly to
The selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 can be stored in a storage rack 108. The storage rack 108 prevents the selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 from moving (e.g., rolling) when not in use. The storage rack 108 includes a first weight rack 110, a central bar 112, and a second weight rack 114. The first weight rack 110 is configured to store the first weight set 116 of the plurality of selectable weights 106. The second weight rack 114 is configured to store the second weight set 118 of the plurality of selectable weights 106. The weightlifting handlebar 104 can selectively couple the first weight set 116 to the second weight set 118. The central bar 112 couples the first weight rack 110 to the second weight rack 114.
The storage rack 108 may further include a plurality of feet 120. The plurality of feet 120 may be positioned on a bottom surface of one or more of the first weight rack 110, the central bar 112, and the second weight rack 114. The plurality of feet 120 may be configured to prevent the storage rack 108 from moving (e.g., sliding, slipping, etc.) when re-racking the selectable barbell clamp system 100. Alternatively, a non-slip mat or padding may be attached or placed under the storage rack to prevent sliding or slipping.
The storage rack 108 may further include a connecting plate 122 and a plurality of bolts (e.g., screws, fasteners, pin, etc.) 124. The connecting plate 122 may be positioned centrally on the central bar 112. The plurality of bolts 124 are positioned on a side of the connecting plate 122. According to some embodiments, the central bar 112 may include a first bar 112a and a second bar 112b coupled by the connecting plate 122. For example, the connecting plate 122 and plurality of bolts 124 may secure the first bar 112a to the second bar 112b.
The storage rack 108 may also include a first set of barbell seats (not shown) and a second set of barbell seats (not shown). The first set of barbell seats may be positioned on a first end of each of the first weight rack 110 and the second weight rack 114. The second set of barbell seats may be positioned on a second end of each of the first weight rack 110 and the second weight rack 114 opposite the first set of barbell seats. The first set of barbell seats are configured to receive a first weightlifting handlebar 104. For example, the first set of barbell seats may receive and store a straight weightlifting handlebar 104a. The second set of barbell seats is configured to receive a second weightlifting handlebar 104. For example, the second set of barbell seats may receive and store a curl bar weightlifting handlebar 104b. The first set of barbell seats and the second set of barbell seats are configured to engage (e.g., receive, etc.) the first weightlifting handlebar 104a and the second weightlifting handlebar 104b, respectively, such that the selectable clamp system 100 can be stored on and/or within the storage rack 108. Types of handlebars that may be suitable for use with the weightlifting handlebar system 100 include a straight bar, a curl bar, a squat bar, a deadlift bar, a bench press bar, a trap bar, a weightlifting bar, a safety squat (yoke) bar, cambered bar, a Swiss bar, or the like.
The selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 also includes a first weight housing 125 and a second weight housing 126. The first weight housing 125 includes a first distal housing end 127a, a first proximal housing end 128a, and a first weight coupling portion 129a. The first distal housing end 127a is positioned opposite the selectable clamp 102. The first proximal weight housing end 128a is positioned adjacent to the selectable clamp 102. The first weight coupling portion 129a is positioned between and couples the first distal housing end 127a to the first proximal housing end 128a. The first weight housing 125 is configured to couple and uncouple the desired amount of weight from the first weight set 116 to the weightlifting handlebar 104.
The second weight housing 126 includes a second distal housing end 127b, a second proximal housing end 128b, and a second weight coupling portion 129b. The second distal housing end 127b is positioned opposite the selectable clamp 102. The second proximal weight housing end is positioned adjacent to the selectable clamp 102. The second weight coupling portion 129b is positioned between couples the second distal housing end 127b to the second proximal housing end 128b. The second weight housing 126 is configured to couple and uncouple the desired amount of weight from the second weight set 118 to the weightlifting handlebar 104.
The selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 further includes a first weight dial 130, a second weight dial 132, a first weight button 134, and a second weight button 136. The first weight dial 130 is positioned on the first distal housing end 127a. The second weight dial 132 is positioned on the second distal housing end 127b. The first weight button 134 is positioned on the proximal end of first weight housing 125. The second weight button 136 is positioned on the proximal end of the second weight housing 126. The first weight dial 130 and the second weight dial 132 rotate (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.). For example, the user may press down on the first weight button 134 and rotate the first weight dial 130 a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to increase the amount of weight selected. The user may also press down on the first weight button 134 and rotate the first weight dial 130 a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) to decrease the amount of weight selected. When the user releases the first weight button 134, the amount of weight selected will be coupled to the weightlifting handlebar 104. To have a balanced amount of weight on each end of the weightlifting handlebar 104, the user may repeat the process of selecting an amount of weight of the second weight set 118 by using the second weight button 136 and the second weight dial 132.
Each of the first weight set 116 and the second weight set 118 may include a first weight display 138 and a second weight display 140 respectively. The first weight display 138 may be positioned on the proximal end of the first weight set 116 adjacent to the first weight button 134. The first weight display 138 is configured to display a number associated with the selected amount of weight for the first weight set 116. For example, as the user rotates the first weight dial 130, the first weight display 138 displays a number that is associated with the total weight on a first end of the weightlifting handlebar 104. The second weight display 140 may be positioned on the proximal end of the second weight set 118 adjacent to the second weight button 136. The second weight display 140 is configured to display a number associated with the selected amount of weight for the second weight set 118. For example, as the user rotates the second weight dial 132, the second weight display 140 displays a number that is associated with the total weight on a second end of the weightlifting handlebar 104.
The clamp for a weightlifting handlebar system 100 further includes a selectable clamp 102. The weightlifting handlebar system 100 includes at least one selectable clamp 102. For example, a selectable clamp 102 is positioned adjacent to the first weight set 116 and another selectable clamp 102 is positioned adjacent to the second weight set 118. The selectable clamp 102 is configured to selectively couple the weightlifting handlebar 104 to at least one of the first weight set 116 and the second weight set 118.
As shown in
Referring more particularly to
The selectable clamp 102 further includes a latch 408. The latch 408 is releasably coupled (e.g., selectively coupled, etc.) to the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. The latch 408 is configured to secure the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 to the weightlifting handlebar 104 when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position. The latch 408 is further configured to release the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 from the weightlifting handlebar 104 when the clamp is in an open position. For example, when the selectable clamp 102 is in an open position (e.g., the latch is released, disengaged, etc.)) the expandable opening is larger (e.g., wider, etc.) than when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position. For example, when the selectable clamp 102 is in an open position, the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 are disengaged from the weightlifting handlebar 104 widening the expandable opening 406 to allow the weightlifting handlebar 104 to be removed from the selectable clamp 102.
The first clamp plate set 402 includes a first front clamp plate 410. The first front clamp plate 410 includes a first pivot point 412 and a first slot 414. The first pivot point 412 is positioned on a lower half of the first front clamp plate 410 when looking down a longitudinal axis (e.g., a central axis AC.) of the selectable clamp 102. The first pivot point 412 may be a circular opening configured to receive one of a plurality of screws 416. The first slot 414 is positioned above the first pivot point 412 and in an upper half of the first front clamp plate 410 when looking down a longitudinal axis (e.g., central axis Ac) of the selectable clamp 102. The first slot 414 may be substantially oval in shape and be configured to receive one of the plurality of screws 416. For example, the first slot 414 is configured to allow the screw 416 to move laterally within the first slot 414 allowing the first front clamp plate 410 to pivot (e.g., rotate) outward about the first pivot point 412 to widen the expandable opening 406 relative to the central axis Ac.
The first front clamp plate 410 includes a first latch opening 418. The first latch opening 418 is positioned above the first slot 414 on an outer edge of the first clamp plate set 402. For example, the first latch opening 418 is defined by the first clamp plate set 402. For example, the first front clamp plate 410 may include a first front clamp plate hook 411. The first front clamp plate hook 411 can define the first latch opening 418 and is configured to engage with the latch 408 to couple the first clamp plate set 402 to the second clamp plate set 404.
The first front clamp plate 410 further includes a first clamp jaw 420. The first clamp jaw 420 is positioned on an inner edge of the first clamp plate set 402 between the first pivot point 412 and the first slot 414. The first clamp jaw 420 defines a portion of the expandable opening 406. The first clamp jaw 420 is in contact with the weightlifting handlebar 104 when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position.
The first front clamp plate 410 further includes a first projection 422. The first projection 422 is positioned below the first clamp jaw 420. The first projection 422 is configured to engage with the weightlifting handlebar 104. The first projection 422 may be in a first position when the selectable clamp 102 is in an open position. For example, the first projection 422 may be protruding upward into the expandable opening 406 when the clamp is in an open position. When the weightlifting handlebar 104 is placed into the expandable opening 406 the first projection 422 may be positioned in a second position. For example, the first projection 422 may move downward as the first front clamp plate 410 pivots (e.g., rotates, moves, etc.) about the first pivot point 412 into a closed position.
The second clamp plate set 404 includes a second front clamp plate 424. The second front clamp plate 424 is positioned opposite the first front clamp plate 410. The second front clamp plate 424 includes a second pivot point 426 and a second slot 428. The second pivot point 426 is positioned on a lower half of the second front clamp plate 424 when looking down a longitudinal axis of the selectable clamp 102 and opposite the first pivot point 412. For example, the second pivot point 426 and the first pivot point 412 may be positioned along a first transverse axis AT1. The second pivot point 426 may be a circular opening configured to receive one of the plurality of screws 416. The second slot 428 is poisoned above the second pivot point 426 and in an upper half of the second front clamp plate 424 when looking down the longitudinal axis (e.g., the central axis Ac) of the selectable clamp 102 and opposite of the first slot 414. For example, the second slot 428 and the first slot 414 may be positioned along a second transverse axis AT2.
The second clamp plate set 404 also includes a second clamp jaw 430. The second clamp jaw 430 is positioned on an inner edge of the second clamp plate set 404 between the second pivot point 426 and the second slot 428. The second clamp jaw 430 is also positioned opposite the first clamp jaw 420. The second clamp jaw 430 defines a portion of the expandable opening 406. The second clamp jaw 430 is in contact with the weightlifting handlebar 104 when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position.
The second front clamp plate 424 includes (e.g., defines) a second latch opening 432. The second latch opening 432 is positioned above the second slot 428 on an outer edge of the second clamp plate set 404. The second latch opening 432 selectively couples the second clamp plate set 404 to the first clamp plate set 402. For example, the second latch opening 432 may be defined by a hook or aperture configured to engage with the latch 408. For example, the second front clamp plate 424 may include an aperture 434 defining the second latch opening 432.
As shown in
As shown in
The first rear slot 506 is positioned above the first rear pivot point 504 and in an upper half of the first rear clamp plate 502 when looking down the longitudinal axis of the selectable clamp 102. The first rear slot 506 is aligned with the first slot 414. The first rear slot 506 may be substantially oval in shape and be configured to receive one of the plurality of screws 416. For example, the first rear slot 506 is configured to allow the screw 416 to move laterally within the first rear slot 506. For example, the first rear clamp plate 502 is configured to pivot (e.g., rotate) outward about the first rear pivot point 504 to enlarge the expandable opening 406 relative to the central axis Ac.
The first rear clamp plate 502 also includes a first rear clamp plate hook 507. The first rear clamp plate hook 507 is positioned on a top edge of the first rear clamp plate 502. In other embodiments, the first rear clamp plate hook 507 may be positioned on a side or a bottom of the first rear clamp plate 502. The first rear clamp plate hook 507 is aligned with the first front clamp plate hook 411. For example, the first rear clamp plate hook 507 is in confronting relation to the first front clamp plate hook 411 and aligned with the first front clamp plate hook 411. Together, the first front clamp plate hook 411 and the first rear clamp plate hook 507 can define the first latch opening 418. Instead in other embodiments, the first front clamp plate hook 411 and the first rear clamp plate hook 507 may be apertures defining the first latch opening 418 (e.g., a circular opening, a slot, etc.).
The second clamp plate set 404 further includes a second rear clamp plate 508. The second rear clamp plate 508 includes a second rear pivot point 510 and a second rear slot 512. The second rear pivot point 510 is positioned on a lower half of the second rear clamp plate 508 when looking down the longitudinal axis of the clamp. The second rear pivot point may be a circular opening configured to receive one of the plurality of screws 416. The second rear pivot point 510 is axially aligned with the second pivot point 426.
The second rear slot 512 is positioned above the second rear pivot point 510 and in an upper half of the second rear clamp plate 508 when looking down the longitudinal axis of the selectable clamp 102. The second rear slot 512 may be substantially oval in shape and be configured to allow the screw 416 to move laterally within the second rear slot 512. For example, the second rear clamp plate 508 is configured to pivot outward about the second rear pivot point 510 to enlarge the expandable opening 406 relative to the central axis Ac.
The second rear clamp plate 508 also includes a second projection 516. The second projection 516 is positioned below the second clamp jaw 514. The second projection 516 may be hook-like in shape. The second projection may also extend across the central axis Ac of the selectable clamp 102 such that the second projection 516 may overlap a portion of a first projection 422. The second projection 516 can move from a first position protruding into the expandable opening 406, downward to a second position flush with the first projection 422. For example, when the weightlifting handlebar 104 is placed into the expandable opening 406, the weightlifting handlebar 104 engages with (e.g., comes in contact with) each of the first projection 422 and the second projection 516 forcing the first front clamp plate 310 and the second rear clamp plate 508 to pivot about the second rear pivot point 510, thus positioning the selectable clamp 102 in a closed position. For example, the weightlifting handlebar 104 provides downward pressure on each of the first projection 422 and the second projection 516 causing the first front clamp plate 310 and the second rear clamp plate 508 to pivot about the second rear pivot point 510.
Once each of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 are positioned in a closed position, the latch 408 can couple the first clamp plate set 402 to the second clamp plate set 404. The latch 408 is releasably coupled to the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. For example, the latch 408 couples the first clamp plate set 402 to the second clamp plate set 404 when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position. When the selectable clamp 102 is in an open position, the latch 408 may be coupled to at least one of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404.
As shown generally in the Figures, the latch 408 is fixedly coupled to the second clamp plate set 404. For example, the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508 may include a latch aperture (e.g., the second latch opening 432) positioned at a top edge of each of the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508 when looking down a longitudinal axis of the selectable clamp 102. In other embodiments, the latch 408 may be removably coupled to each of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404.
The latch 408 may also include a front edge 522 and a rear edge 524. The front edge 522 is positioned inward (e.g., proximally to the center of the selectable barbell clamp system 100) from the rear edge 524 when looking down a longitudinal axis of the selectable clamp 102. For example, the rear edge 524 is positioned adjacent to the proximal housing end 128. A metal dowel (e.g., a pin, bolt, etc.) extends from the front edge 522 to the rear edge 524. The metal dowel may be positioned through the latch aperture of each of the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508.
The latch 408 includes a first part 526 and a second part 528. However, in other embodiments, the latch 408 may only include a first part 526. The first part 526 is configured to engage the first latch opening 418 and the second latch opening 432. For example, the latch 408 may include a first pin 530. The first pin 530 is configured to engage with the first latch opening 418 of the first clamp plate set 402. For example, the first pin 530 may be placed into the first latch opening 418 of the first clamp plate set 402 to secure the first clamp plate set 402 to the second clamp plate set 404, thus closing the expandable opening 406 around the weightlifting handlebar 104. The first pin 530 may then be removed from the first latch opening 418 of the first clamp plate set 402 to release the latch 408 opening the expandable opening 406 such that the weightlifting handlebar 104 may be removed from the selectable clamp 102.
The latch 408 may further include a second pin 532. The second pin 532 is configured to engage with the second latch opening 432. For example, the second pin 532 may be selectively engaged with second clamp plate set 404 via the second latch opening 432, such that the second pin 532 may be removable from the second latch opening 432. In other embodiments, the second pin 532 may be fixedly (e.g., connected, secured, etc.) coupled to the second clamp plate set 404 within the second latch opening 432.
The second part 534 is positioned on a distal end of the latch 408. The second part 534 is configured to secure and release the latch 408 from the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. The second part 534 includes a tapered end 536 and a connecting end 538. The tapered end 536 can be ergonomically shaped to aid the user in securing and releasing the selectable clamp 102. The connecting end 538 is configured to couple the first part 526 to the second part of 534 of the latch 408. For example, the connecting end 538 may be inserted into an interior cavity of the first part 526. Then the second pin 532 may be placed through the first part 526 and the second part 534 coupling the second part 534 to the first part 526 of the latch 408.
The latch 408 further includes a release lever 540 and a third pin 542. The release lever 540 is positioned through an interior cavity of the second part 534. The release lever 540 is also coupled to the second part 534. The third pin 542 is positioned through the second part 534 and the release lever 540. The third pin 542 is configured to couple the release lever 540 to the second part 534. The release lever 540 is configured to prevent the latch 408 from releasing and opening the expandable opening 406 while using the weightlifting handlebar for exercises. For example, the release lever may further secure the latch 408 and the selectable clamp 102 in a closed position.
The release lever 540 includes a release tab 544 and a release hook 546. The release tab 544 is positioned on a portion of the release lever 540 above the second part 534. The release hook 546 is positioned on a portion of the release lever 540 below the second part 534. The release tab 544 is configured to release or disengage the release lever 540 from the second clamp plate set 404. The release hook 546 is configured to engage (e.g., be in contact with, etc.) the second clamp plate set 404 to prevent the latch 408 from releasing and opening the selectable clamp 102 at an undesirable time. For example, the user may press down on the release tab 544, rotating the release lever 540 about the third pin 542 to disengage the release lever 540 from the second clamp plate set 404. By rotating the release lever 540 about the third pin 542, the release hook 546 also rotates. For example, when the release hook 546 rotates, the release hook is disengaged from the second clamp plate set 404. Instead, in other embodiments, the latch 408 may include a release button instead of a release lever 540. For example, the user may pressure the release button to release the latch 408 from at least one of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404.
The latch 408 is coupled to each of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. The first pin 530 is positioned within the first latch opening 418 of the first front clamp plate 310 and the first rear clamp plate 502 such that the first front clamp plate hook 411 and the first rear clamp plate hook 507 are engaged with the first pin 530.
In
Further, as shown in
The second clamp plate set 404 pivots about the second pivot point 426, such that the second clamp jaw 514 is positioned within the expandable opening 406. For example, as the first rear clamp plate hook 507 rotates outward away from the central axis Ac in a direction opposite of the first front clamp plate hook 411, the second clamp jaw 514 rotates upward into the lower portion 604 of the expandable opening 406 when the selectable clamp is in an open position and the weightlifting handlebar is disengaged from the selectable clamp 102.
The first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514 are configured to engage with the weightlifting handlebar 104. For example, when the selectable clamp 102 is positioned in an open position and each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514 are rotated into the lower portion 604 of the expandable opening 406, the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 are rotated outward (e.g., away from the central axis Ac) widening the upper portion 602 of the expandable opening. By enlarging the upper portion 602 of the expandable opening, the selectable clamp 102 is in a desirable open position to receive the weightlifting handlebar 104 For example, the upper portion 602 of the expandable opening 406 may be slanted such that the upper portion 602 tapers down to the lower portion 604 to guide the weightlifting handlebar 104 into the lower portion 604 of the expandable opening 406.
As the weightlifting handlebar 104 is placed in the expandable opening 406, the weightlifting handlebar 104 engages with each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514. For example, the weightlifting handlebar 104 may press downward (e.g., exert a downward force, etc.) on each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514. As the weightlifting handlebar 104 exerts a downward force on each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514, the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 rotate inward relative to the central axis Ac. For example, when a force is applied by the weightlifting handlebar 104, the first clamp jaw 420 is forced downward, rotating the first front clamp plate inward towards the central axis Ac. The first clamp jaw 420 is in contact with a bottom second front clamp plate interior edge 610, such that the downward rotation of the first clamp jaw 420 forces the second front clamp plate 424 to also rotate inward with respect to the central axis Ac. Also, when the second clamp jaw 514 is pressed down on by the weightlifting handlebar 104, the second clamp jaw 514 is forced downward, rotating the second rear clamp plate 508 inwards towards the central axis Ac. The second clamp jaw 514 is in contact with a bottom first rear clamp plate interior edge 612, such that the downward rotation of the second clamp jaw 515 forced the first rear clamp plate 502 to also rotates inward with respect to the central axis Ac.
As shown in
Now referring specifically to
The latch further includes a fourth pin 608. The fourth pin 608 is fixedly coupled to the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508 within the second latch opening 432. The fourth pin 608 is positioned between the first pin 530 and the second pin 532. The fourth pin 608 is configured to couple the latch 408 to the selectable clamp 102. For example, the fourth pin 608 may be positioned within the latch 408 such that the fourth pin 608 may not be seen when looking along the central axis Ac.
Further, when in a closed position, the release lever 540 is in contact with each of the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508 to prevent the selectable clamp 102 from opening unnecessarily (e.g., unintentionally, etc.).
As shown in
As shown in
Once the first pin 530 and the first part 526 of the latch 408 has cleared the expandable opening 406, the weightlifting handlebar 104 can be removed. The weightlifting handlebar 104 is moved vertically upward as shown by a vertical arrow 900. For example, the weightlifting handlebar 104 is moved vertically a distance upward past the latch 408.
Further, as the weightlifting handlebar 104 moves out of the expandable opening 406, The weightlifting handlebar 104 disengages with each of the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404. For example, the weightlifting handlebar 104 releases downward presses on each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 515. The first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 then move outward relative to the transverse axis AT. For example, the first clamp plate set 402, moves laterally a first direction 902, which the second clamp plate set 404 moves a second direction 904, opposite the first direction 902. As the first clamp plate set 402 moves in the first direction 902 and the second clamp plate set 404 moves in the second direction 904, the expandable opening 406 widens (e.g., expands, enlarged, etc.). The weightlifting handlebar 104 can then be removed from the selectable clamp 102 by pulling the weightlifting handlebar 104 upward as shown by arrow 906.
The end piece 1002 further includes a bottom edge 1108, a first curved edge 1110, and a second curved edge 1112. The bottom edge 1108 is positioned opposite the top edge 1102 and below the weightlifting handlebar 104. The first curved edge 1110 is positioned on the first side of the end piece 1002 and the second curved edge 1112 is positioned opposite of the first curved edge 1110 on the second side of the end piece 1002. The bottom edge 1108 is configured to engage with each of the first clamp jaw 420 and the second clamp jaw 514.
The proximal end 1116 protrudes outward at an angle relative to a plane A-A defined by the distal end 1114 that bisects the weightlifting handlebar 104. For example, proximal end 1116 extends outward from each of the first tab 1104 and the second tab 1106 toward the weightlifting handlebar 104. The proximal end 1116 is configured to prevent any movement (e.g., proximally or distally, up or down, left or right, etc.) of the end piece 1002 between the first front clamp plate 410, the second front clamp plate 424, the first rear clamp plate 502, and the second rear clamp plate 508. For example, the proximal end 1116 is configured to wedge (e.g., tightly fit, securely fit, etc.) between each of the first front clamp plate 410 and the first rear clamp plate 502, and the second front clamp plate 424 and the second rear clamp plate 508 to prevent the movement to the end piece 1002 in any direction within the selectable clamp 102. Specifically, the angle the angle at which the proximal end 1116 extends outward at may prevent movement of the end piece 1002 along the central axis Ac when the selectable clamp 102 is in a closed position.
Now referring to
The proximal housing end 128 is adjacent to (e.g., in confronting relation to, etc.) the back plate 436. The back plate 436, the first rear clamp plate 502, and the second rear clamp plate 508 define an end piece cavity 1302. The end piece cavity 1302 is configured to receive the end piece 1006 of the weightlifting handlebar 104.
The selectable clamp 102 further includes a plurality of bushings 1304. The plurality of bushings 1304 extend from the back plate 436 through each of the first rear clamp plate 502, the first front clamp plate 410, the second rear clamp plate 508, the second front clamp plate 424, and the front plate 600. The plurality of bushings 1304 are configured to receive the plurality of screws 416 coupling the first clamp plate set 402 and the second clamp plate set 404 to each of the back plate 436 and the front plate 600.
The plurality of bushings 1304 includes a lower bushings 1304a and upper bushings 1304b. The lower bushings 1304a are positioned on a bottom half of the back plate 436. The upper bushings 1304b are positioned on a top half of the back plate 436 above the lower bushings 1304a.
Further, when the end piece 1002 is fully engaged with the selectable clamp 102, each of the first tab 1104 and the second tab 1106 are engaged with the upper bushings 1304b. For example, the first tab 1104 and the second tab 1106 can rest on a top edge of the upper bushings 1304b. The lower bushings 1304a engaging with each of the first curved edge 1110 and the second curved edge 1112 and the upper bushings engaging with each of the first tab 1104 and the second tab 1106 aid in guiding the end piece 1006 properly into the end piece cavity 1302.
Now referring to
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According to any illustrated embodiment described herein, a method of interchanging weightlifting handlebars 104 on an adjustable weight set (e.g., the first weight set 116 and/or the second weight set 118) using a selectable clamp 102 includes at least one or more of the steps: (1) opening a first clamp 102a (e.g., releasing a first latch 408) on a first end of the adjustable weight set (e.g., the first weight set 116) to disengage a first end (e.g., the first end piece 1002) of a weightlifting handlebar 104, (2) opening a second clamp 102b (e.g., releasing a second latch 408) on a second end of the adjustable weight set (e.g., the second weight set 118) to disengage a second end of the weightlifting handlebar 104, (3) removing the weightlifting handlebar 104 from the first clamp 102a and the second clamp 102b, (4) inserting another weightlifting handlebar (e.g., the curl bar weightlifting handlebar 104b, the kettlebell weightlifting handlebar 1602, etc.) into the first clamp 102a and the second clamp 102b, (5) closing the first clamp 102a (e.g., securing the first latch) on the first end of the adjustable weight set to engage a first end of the other weightlifting handlebar 104, and (6) closing the second clamp 102b (e.g., securing the second latch 408) on the second end of the adjustable weight set to engage a second end of the other weightlifting handlebar 104. The step of opening the first clamp 102a may include opening a first latch 408 on the first clamp 102a, and the step of opening the second clamp 102b may include opening a second latch 408 on the second clamp 102b. The step of inserting another weightlifting handlebar 104 may include engaging projections (e.g., the first projection 422, and the second projection 516) on the clamp plates (e.g., the first front clamp plate 410, and the second rear clamp plate 508) and pivoting the clamp plates from an open position to a closed position. The method may also include the steps of closing the first latch 408 on the first clamp 102a and closing the second latch 408 on the second clamp 102b, where closing the first latch 408 on the first clamp 102a and closing the second latch 408 on the second clamp 102b further includes the step of radially gripping the weightlifting handlebar 104 between the clamp plates. The step of closing the first latch 408 on the first clamp 102a and closing the second latch 408 on the second clamp 102b may also include axially wedging the first end (e.g., the first end piece 1002) of the weightlifting handlebar within the first clamp 102a, and axially wedging the second end (e.g., end piece 1002) of the weightlifting handlebar 104 within the second clamp 102b. According to any embodiment, the method of the present disclosure is intended for use with a weightlifting handlebar 104 that may be at least one of a straight-bar 104a, a curl-bar 104b, a kettlebell handle 1602, and a barbell handle.
The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.
References to “or” may be construed as inclusive so that any terms described using “or” may indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. References to at least one of a conjunctive list of terms may be construed as an inclusive OR to indicate any of a single, more than one, and all of the described terms. For example, a reference to “at least one of ‘A’ and ‘B’” can include only ‘A’, only ‘B’, as well as both ‘A’ and ‘B’. Such references used in conjunction with “comprising” or other open terminology can include additional items.
References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.
The construction and arrangement of the elements of the systems and methods of the selectable clamp for a weightlifting handlebar for an adjustable weight set as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied.
Additionally, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). Rather, use of the word “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
Where technical features in the drawings, detailed description or any claim are followed by reference signs, the reference signs have been included to increase the intelligibility of the drawings, detailed description, and claims. Accordingly, neither the reference signs nor their absence have any limiting effect on the scope of any claim elements.
Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, any element (e.g., selectable clamp, weightlifting handlebar, etc.) disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Also, for example, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.
