BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
The present disclosure generally relates to exercise mechanisms, in particular to a track-based exercise mechanism with handles and attached to a vessel to be used to simulate rowing or for exercise purposes.
2. Description of The Related Art
Rowing and paddle boarding have been proven to yield a number of health benefits as being a vigorous form of exercise. However, oftentimes a boat and a body of water is required in order to participate in rowing or paddle boarding and enjoy the full benefits associated with the activity. Furthermore, there are a variety of overhead costs associated with purchasing or renting a boat, equipment, gear and clothing in order to row or paddleboard.
SUMMARY
Systems and methods for a track-based exercise mechanism are provided that simulate the experience of rowing or paddle boarding without having to deal with the logistical or financial burden of buying or renting equipment or finding a body of water to perform the activity in.
Provided is an exercise mechanism including: a base for a user to sit or stand on; a track arranged near the base; at least one handle bar comprising a handle and a paddle blade attached to the track so as to allow sliding movement alongside the track; and a resistance mechanism to provide resistance as the user moves the handle bar in a selected motion depending on the user's exercise goals.
Also provided is an exercise mechanism including: at least one base for a user to sit or stand on and at least one handle bar comprising a handle and a paddle blade, wherein the paddle blade moves through a medium, wherein the medium provides resistance as the user moves the handle bar in a selected motion depending on the user's exercise goals.
Also provided is a method for using an exercise mechanism for exercise including: providing a base for a user to stand or sit on and a handle bar comprising a handle for a user to hold on to and move; enabling the user to exert force on the handle bar in a selected motion while the user is sitting or standing on the base; adjusting the resistance of the selected motion depending on strength training goals of the user; and recording results and data from the exercise session.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate like elements.
FIG. 1A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 1B illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2B illustrates a close-up of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2C illustrates a zoomed-out view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2D illustrates another zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2E illustrates another zoomed-out view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3A illustrates a zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3B illustrates another zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 5B illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6B illustrates a component of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 6C illustrates another component of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7A illustrates a base in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7B illustrates a paddle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7C illustrates a wedge in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7D illustrates a side view of an exercise mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7E illustrates a handle bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7F illustrates a flat bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7G illustrates a paddle blade in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7H illustrates a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7I illustrates a paddle component in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7J illustrates a bearing spindle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7K illustrates a closer cam plate, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7L illustrates another bearing spindle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 7M illustrates a nylon roller, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 8 illustrates a tank-track paddle configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9B illustrates a birds-eye view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9C illustrates a front-to-rear view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9D illustrates a side view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9E illustrates a pulley system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9F illustrates a track connection in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9G illustrates a pivot in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9H illustrates a handle bar and a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9I illustrates a see-through blown-up view of a handle bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 9J illustrates a blown-up view of a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 10 illustrates a stand-up exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 11 illustrates a method flowchart in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
FIG. 12 illustrates an unstable platform to be used with the exercise machine in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding. However, in certain instances, well known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure are not necessarily references to the same embodiment, and such references mean at least one.
The use of headings herein is merely provided for ease of reference and shall not be interpreted in any way to limit this disclosure or the following claims.
Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described that may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described that may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.
The embodiments discussed herein relate to systems and methods for a track-based exercise mechanism that can, e.g., simulate the experience of rowing or paddle boarding without having to deal with the logistical or financial burden of buying or renting equipment or finding a body of water to perform the activity in. Just as an example, a base may be positioned on single, double or multiple tracks made from different materials that may be straight or curved or a combination of both. The base may have rollers of different types that connect with the tracks so as to enable the base to move. Handles of different lengths and qualities (which may be retractable or flexible and made from different materials) are connected to paddles with single or double blades. The paddles may be designed in a unique way so as to utilize a flap mechanism that opens when being rowed in one direction and that contracts when rowed in another direction, thereby adding resistance to further simulate a training or exercise regime for a user. The track may also be attached to a base and can be used either with or without water. If to be used with water, a small moat-like structure surrounding the base is created and filled in with water.
In addition, the track based design can actually be implemented in a vessel, such as a kayak, a boat, a base, and so on.
In one embodiment, the present application provides exercise machines that will mimic the act of paddle boarding that utilize a straight track for back and forth movement in order to provide good exercise for the shoulder and arm muscles. In one embodiment, provided is an exercise machine with a circular track and a trolley in order to simulate a twisting exercise with twisting motions. All exercise machines can be adjusted with weights and springs that will add resistance so as to make the workout harder or more of a challenge for the user.
FIG. 1A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 100 includes foot lever 102, roller plate 104, paddle connection 106, vee roller 108, handle bars 110 and base 112. A user may rest his or her feet on foot lever 102, which is shown in FIG. 1A as a tomb-shape but is not limited to this design implementation. The user may also grip handle bars 110, which may have handles, although this is not shown in FIG. 1A. Roller plate 104 is a fixed plate that provides stability while a cable or string—paddle connection 106—connected to vee roller 108 provides motion, via force exerted by the user upon handle bars 110, to the paddle blade 114 (shown in FIG. 1B). Roller plate 104 may be made from plastic or aluminum or any such material, for example. Base 112 is also where a user may sit or stand on while using his or her arm strength to push the handle bars 110 connected to the paddle blade 114. Further resistance may be added to the paddle connection 106 or vee roller 108 in order to make the pushing of the handle bars 110 more of a challenge.
FIG. 1B illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 100 includes foot lever 102, roller plate 104, paddle connection 106, vee roller 108, handles 110, base 112, paddle blade 114 and track 116. As can be seen in FIG. 1B, paddle blade 114 can comprise multiple blades or a single blade. Track 116 is where the composite structure of the handle bars 110 and paddle blade 114 runs along in order to simulate a rowing motion. The details of the parts connected to the handle bars 110 that slide alongside the track 116 will be further detailed and described in FIG. 2B.
FIG. 2A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 200 includes handle bars 210, a track 202 and paddle blade 214. As shown in FIG. 2A, the paddle blade 214 can include multiple blades or a single blade. The track 202 is where the component including the handle bars 210 and the paddle blade 214 slide along in order for the user to simulate a rowing motion.
FIG. 2B illustrates a close-up of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 200 includes handle bars 210, handle bar connection chassis 212, handle bar connectors 216, roller plate 208, securing plate 204, roller wheels 206 and track 202. The handle bars 210 are connected to the roller plate 208 by means of handle bar connectors 216 placed securely within the handle bar connection chassis 212 that connect securely to handle bars 210, usually by means of screws or other securers. The roller plate 208 is in turn connected to roller wheels 206 by means of securing plate 204—at least one hole can be seen in securing plate 204 where screws can fit in to use the securing plate 204 to connect the roller plate 208 securely with the roller wheels 206. Roller wheels 206 fit within track 202 in order to slide along while the user exerts force on the handle bars 210. When the user exerts force on handle bars 210, the entire component including handle bar connection chassis 212, handle bar connectors 216, roller plate 208 and securing plate 204 is moved alongside the track 202 by means of the roller wheels 206. Securing plate 204 and rolling plate 208 may be made from plastic or aluminum.
FIG. 2C illustrates a zoomed-out view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 200 includes handle bars 210, handle bar connection chassis 212, handle bar connectors 216, roller plate 208, securing plate 204, roller wheels 206, track 202 and paddle blade 214. As shown in FIG. 2C, paddle blade 214 may include multiple blades or be a single blade.
FIG. 2D illustrates another zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 240 includes handle bars 210, track 202, roller plate 208, securing clamp 218 and roller wheels 206. The difference between FIG. 2D and the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2C is that the securing clamp 218 is used instead of the handle bar connection chassis 212 and handle bar connectors 216. As shown in FIG. 2D, a single securing clamp 218 is used to connect the handle bar 210 securely with the roller plate 208. Also, securing clamp 218 may have at least one hole where screws can be inserted into in order to securely connect and clamp the handle bars 210 with the roller plate 208. The operation where the user exerts force on the handle bars 210 to move the component including handle bars 210, roller plate 208 and securing clamp 218 alongside track 202 by means of roller wheels 206 is similar to the operation discussed above for FIGS. 2A-2C.
FIG. 2E illustrates another zoomed-out view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 240 includes handle bars 210, track 202, roller plate 208, securing clamp 218, roller wheels 206 and paddle blade 222. The description for FIG. 2E is identical with the description for FIG. 2D, except for the paddle blade 222, which is shown in FIG. 2E as a single blade, instead of having multiple blades, as in FIGS. 1A, 2A and 2C.
FIG. 3A illustrates a zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 300 includes track 302, handle bars 310, handle bar connection chassis 312, handle bar connectors 316, roller plate 308, exploded securing plate 324 and paddle blade 314. The roller wheels are not shown, but the exploded securing plate 324 connects the roller plate 308 (which are connected by means of the handle bar connectors 316 and the handle bar connection chassis 312) and the handle bars 310 to the roller wheels, and the user exerts force on the handle bars 310 to move the handle bars 310 alongside the track 302 by means of the roller wheels. Exploded securing plate 324 is shown in order to reveal in more detail the at least one hole where screws can be fitted in that connect the handle bars 310 to the roller plate 308 and the roller wheels. Securing plate 324 limits the opening of paddle blade 314 and is similar to securing plate 204.
FIG. 3B illustrates another zoomed-in view of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 300 includes track 302, handle bars 310, handle bar connection chassis 312, handle bar connectors 316, roller plate 308, exploded securing plate 324 and paddle blade 314. The description of FIG. 3B is identical to the description of FIG. 3A, the only difference being the different view so that the track 302 and the exploded securing plate 324 can be seen more clearly.
FIG. 4 illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 400 includes base 412, handle bars 410, handles 420 and handle bar supports 402. A user may sit or stand on base 412 and hold onto handles 420 and exert force to move handle bars 410, which are turn connected to paddle blades 414. Paddle blades 414 may move through any medium, including air, water, a vacuum, or a high-resistance fluid for strength-training purposes.
FIG. 5A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 500 includes bases 512, handle bars 524, handles 526 and base connectors 528. In FIG. 5A, three bases 512 are shown, but the number of bases 512 are not limited to three and can be more or less. The user, or multiple users may sit or stand on any of the bases 512. The ideal configuration is for a user to sit or stand on the middle base 512. Then, the user may hold onto handles 526 and operate handle bars 524 which are connected to paddle blades (not shown). Paddle blades may move through any medium, including air, water, a vacuum, or a high-resistance fluid for strength training purposes. Base connectors 528 are shown in FIG. 5A as being arranged on both the front and rear of the bases 512 but are not limited to this number.
FIG. 5B illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 500 includes bases 512, handle bars 524, handles 526 and base connectors 528. The description of FIG. 5B is identical to the description of FIG. 5A, except for FIG. 5B being at a different angle.
FIG. 6A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 600 includes base 612, which is supported by base support 636, handle bars 610, handle bar connectors 628, pulley 614, anchor 630 and tension spool 632. The user may sit or stand on base 612 and hold onto handle bars 610. Exerting force on handle bars 610 the user may simulate a rowing or push and pull motion when the handle bars are connected to the handle bar connectors 628 and the pulley 612, which are in turn connected to the tension spool 636 of the anchor 630, the tension spool 632 providing an adjustable resistance to make the movement, pushing or pulling of the handle bars 610 harder or lighter, depending on the user's exercise goals. The base 612 is also supported by base support 636 in order to give the user and the base more stability.
FIG. 6B illustrates a component of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 6B, anchor 630 is shown, including an anchor base 634, tension spool 632 and pulley 614. The pulley 614 is either cable or high-tension string that is connected to the anchor 630, and the tension spool 632 adjusts the resistance of the material in pulley 612 in order to vary how much a user must push or pull the handle bars 610. Anchor base 634 firmly stabilizes anchor 630 so as to serve as a stable support for the tension in the pulley 612 from the pulley 612. 630 may be a weight-resistance cable.
FIG. 6C illustrates another component of an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 6C, base support 636 is shown which provides a stable support for base 612 and for the user standing on base 612. Handle bar connectors 628 may also be viewed in FIG. 6C as well.
FIG. 7A illustrates a base in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The base 702 shown in FIG. 7A has two slits 704 in which different handle bars can fit into on either side of a user so that the user can simulate rowing with both hands. FIG. 7B illustrates a paddle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The paddle 706 in FIG. 7B includes a handle 708, a handle bar 710 and a paddle blade 712. The paddle blade 712 may be a single blade or have multiple blades. FIG. 7C illustrates a wedge in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Wedge 714 may be used as a foot pedal in an exercise mechanism.
FIG. 7D illustrates a side view of an exercise mechanism, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 720 includes a handle bar connection 722, roller wheels 724, roller plate 726, and a track 728. Handle bar connection 722 transfers the force exerted on a pair of handle bars (not shown) by a user, which gets translated to the roller wheels 724, which are connected to the handle bar connection 722 by means of the roller plate 726. Roller wheels 724 also slide alongside track 728. FIG. 7D also is a view of looking at the paddle from above, and shows two types of rollers, one of which are the center rollers used for moving the paddle up and down and side rollers used for moving it forward and backward. FIG. 7E illustrates a handle bar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Handle bar 710 can be implemented with a handle 708, as shown in FIG. 7E.
FIG. 7F illustrates a flat bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Flat bar 730 may be made of aluminum, and may be used as a foot pedal or foot rest in an exercise mechanism. Flat bar 730 is similar to roller plate 104. FIG. 7G illustrates a paddle blade in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7G, paddle blade 712 may be a single blade or it may have multiple blades. FIG. 7H illustrates a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Handle 708 is just one example of the type of handle that can be used with the handle bars in an exercise mechanism. Handle 708 is not limited to the implementation shown in FIG. 7H.
FIG. 7I illustrates a paddle component in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Paddle component 740 includes handle bar 710, paddle blade 712, connection chassis 713, wedge 714, roller wheel 724, roller plate 726, closer cam plate 741, socket cap 742, bearing spindle 743, nylon roller 744, and paddle spindle 745. The handle bar 710 is connected to connection chassis 713 by means of nylon rollers 744 and paddle spindle 745, and the connection chassis 713 is in turn connected to the roller plate 726, the wedge 714 and the closer cam plate 741. The roller plate is then further connected to roller wheel 724, which moves along a track 728. The user exerts force on the handle bar 710 to move the paddle component 740 alongside the track 728. The paddle blade 712 is connected to the handle bar 710 at least by means of paddle spindle 745, and the socket cap 742 further locks in the paddle blade 712. The paddle blade 712 may be a single blade or have multiple blades as well.
FIG. 7J illustrates a bearing spindle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The longer type of bearing spindle shown in FIG. 7J can be used, for instance, as paddle spindle 745, as shown and discussed above in FIG. 7I, and for other purposes. FIG. 7K illustrates a closer cam plate, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The closer cam plate shown in FIG. 7K can be used, for instance, as closer cam plate 741, as shown and discussed above in FIG. 7I, and for other purposes. FIG. 7L illustrates another bearing spindle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The shorter type of bearing spindle shown in FIG. 7L can be used, for instance, as bearing spindle 743, as shown and discussed above in FIG. 7I, and for other purposes. FIG. 7M illustrates a nylon roller, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The nylon rollers illustrates in FIG. 7M may be used for the roller wheels 724 or the nylon rollers 744 discussed above in FIG. 7I and in other Figures. Both rollers could be exactly the same, or slightly different for different purposes, or very different to suit different applications.
FIG. 8 illustrates a tank-track paddle configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Tank-track paddle configuration 800 has spindles 802 that hold wheels 806, the wheels 806 driving a belt 808 fit tight against the wheels 806, and the wheel 808 having at least one blade 804 affixed onto it. One of the spindles 802 can be driven by a hand wheel or a bicycle pedal wheel that one pedals and that allows for a derailleur gear change. The belt 808 may be, for instance, a plastic toothed belt with e.g., 3 sets of pulleys for change gearing. Almost every one of the components in tank-track paddle configuration 800 can be plastic molded. In one embodiment, the motion of the wheels 806 can be powered by a motor connected to a car battery, for example. Also, the wheels 806 could be connected to any motor used for a water jet affixed under a kayak or board, and the motor and battery would be positioned above the board. The blades 804 can also be placed within any medium (e.g., air, water, vacuum, high-resistance material), in order to simulate the motion of multiple paddles within water, for instance. Tank-track paddle configuration 800 may be attached to the side of a kayak and may also be moved by arms and legs.
FIG. 9A illustrates an exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Exercise mechanism 900 includes a track 902, track connection 908, a base 912, handle bar 910, handle 920 and pulley system 904. The configuration of this exercise mechanism emphasizes side-to-side movement so as to simulate twisting motions and for the user to engage in twisting exercises. The user may stand or sit on the base 912, and then holds onto the handle bar 910 and/or handle 920 and performs a series of twisting side to side motions, while the handle bar 910 is connected to the track 902 via track connection 908. The handle bar 910 may be connected to the track 902 via track connection 908 by roller wheels, for example. The user fights resistance from the pulley system 904 while moving the handle bar 910 in side-to-side twisting motions along the track 902. Furthermore, the handle bar 910 may have a paddle blade at the end (not shown) that extends below a hole into a medium. As the handle bar 910 moves along the track, the user must also fight the resistance caused by the paddle blade in the medium.
FIG. 9B illustrates a birds-eye view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9C illustrates a front-to-rear view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 9D illustrates a side view of the exercise mechanism shown in FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. All the components have already been described above for the description of FIG. 9A. In FIG. 9B, the track 902 and the base 912 can be seen more clearly. In FIG. 9C, the handle bar 910 and handle 920 can be seen more clearly. In FIG. 9D, the pulley system 904 can be seen more clearly.
FIG. 9E illustrates a pulley system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Pulley system 904 includes pulleys 924 and connections 924. Connections 924 may be string, cable or other material that can withstand high-tensions. Pulley 924 is a cable or string with resistance. FIG. 9F illustrates a track connection in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Track connection 908 includes handle bar 910 which is connected via pivot 926 to clamp mechanism 928. Clamp mechanism 928 either has roller wheels or uses some other means to slide along track 902—also clamp mechanism 928 is connected to pulley system 904 in order to provide resistance for strength training when the user uses twisting motions to slide handle bar 910 alongside the track 902. FIG. 9G illustrates a pivot in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Pivot 926 includes an upper sleeve portion 930, a pivot joint 932 and a bottom connector portion 934. The upper sleeve portion 930 securely holds the handle bar 910. The pivot joint 932 allows the handle bar 910 to move to its extreme corner in order to simulate movement along the track 902. The bottom connector portion 934 is connected to the clamp mechanism 928.
FIG. 9H illustrates a handle bar and a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9H, handle bar 910 (and also a see-through inside portion of handle bar 910) and handle 920 are exhibited. FIG. 9I illustrates a see-through blown-up view of a handle bar in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Handle bar 910 is shown to have a number of springs 936 within its structure. These springs 936 are designed for increased resistance and stability when the user operates the handle bar 910 or is exerting force on the handle bar 910 during exercise. Springs 936 may be placed in handle bar 910 for mimicking paddle board exercise where the user may stay on their heels and push the handle down, and then forward, and then to the side, and the springs provide resistance for the downward motion—which is exercise that focuses on the core muscles. FIG. 9J illustrates a blown-up view of a handle in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Handle 920 is shown in FIG. 9J and its surface may comprise a material that facilitates gripping or a firm contact, such as, e.g., leather, plastic, polyester, or gecko-grip. Handle 920 may be made from, for example, wood, plastic, aluminum, or combination of other such materials, for example.
FIG. 10 illustrates a stand-up exercise mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Stand-up exercise mechanism 1000 that may be used without water but which allows a user to focus with exercise on their core muscles and shoulders. Stand-up exercise mechanism includes handle 1020, paddle pole 1010, standing platform 1012, resistance tower 1004, and pivot 1008, which is on a track that is curved, as shown in FIG. 10. The handle 1020 may adjust depending on the height of the user. The paddle pole 1010 may adjust or telescope or apply resistance based on light spring motion—and may also be connected to resistance tower 1004—in order to simulate realistic paddle motion. Standing platform 1012 may be inclined or be laid flat, depending on user preferences. Resistance tower 1008 controls the resistance of the handle 1020 and paddle pole 1010 and in one embodiment may be connected to the resistance tower 1008. The resistance from the resistance tower 2008 may be varied by the user. For instance, in one embodiment, the resistance tower is a stack of different weights and the user places a pin in a particular slot to indicate how much weight they want to serve as resistance—similar to most weight machines. Then, after the resistance is set by the resistance tower 1008, then the user has to exert force against that resistance in a paddle motion in order to focus on exercise that targets their core muscles and shoulders. The pivot 1008 connects the paddle pole 1010 to the track, which may be circular or curved—as shown in FIG. 10—but may be any shape, such as rectangular or zig-zag or customized depending on the type of motion the user wishes to paddle in.
In one embodiment, the stand-up exercise mechanism 1000 may utilize different shapes of tracks, such as, for example, a circle track or rectangular track. In one embodiment, the handle and resistance tower may be configured with more resistance that will create more twist types of exercise. In one embodiment, a track will be utilized that can roll up, or be configured in a vertical position and then horizontally straight out to use for upper and lower body types of exercise. In one embodiment, combinations of different shape of tracks and handles can be used.
FIG. 11 illustrates a method flowchart in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In step 1102, the method 1100 starts. In step 1104, a base is provided for a user to stand or sit on. The base can be part of a vessel such as a kayak, canoe or other boat-like structure. In step 1106, the method the user may exert force on a handle bar while the user is standing or sitting on the base in a selected motion. The type of motion that can be exerted may be taken from a wide variety of different types of motions. For instance, to strengthen the user's arm and shoulder muscles, a back and forth motion could be emphasized. As another example, to strength the user's torso or abdominal muscles, a twisting side-to-side motion could be emphasized. The exercise mechanism can be configured by the user to accommodate any of these motions and more. In step 1108, the resistance of the selected motion the user is engaging in is adjusted, depending on strength training goals of the user. The user, for instance, may want more resistance in order to build strength, or wish to have less resistance in order to tone muscles. Additionally, the resistance can be provided in a number of ways. The handle bar may be connected to a pulley system that can provide resistance via weights or other mechanisms. The handle bar may also have a paddle blade at the end, and the paddle blade may extend into a medium. The medium may be air, water, a vacuum, or a high-resistance medium that provides resistance and pressure when a paddle blade travels within it. Other mediums could also include other dense liquids. In one embodiment, the blade may be a double-blade that contracts when the paddle blade is moved via the handle bar in one direction, and then expands to provide resistance when the paddle blade is moved via the handle bar in another direction. In one embodiment, the blade may be a single blade that provides the same resistance throughout. In one embodiment, the paddle blade may have multiple blades that contract in some way while the paddle blade is moved in one direction, and expand in some way while the paddle blade is moved in another direction. In step 1110, the simulation is completed and results are recorded as well as data from the exercise session. For instance, a heart-rate monitor or other device that measures calories burned or heart rate may be attached to the user, and such data may be recorded after the exercise session. Other computer programs that help a user reach a targeted exercise goal may also be interfaced with the exercise mechanism so that after the user uses the exercise mechanism, progress towards their goal may be recorded, and users will be actively working towards their goals while using the exercise mechanism. In step 1112, method 1100 is completed, and the user may repeat method 1100 all over again.
FIG. 12 illustrates an unstable platform to be used with the exercise machine in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Unstable platform system 1200 includes pivot 1202, platform 1204, hydraulic cylinder 1206, valve 1208, servo motor 1210, computer control 1212, sensor 1214, resistance mechanism 1216, connection 1217, pulley 1218, flywheel 1220, chopper wheel 1222. The user may stand on the unstable platform 1200 and perform various exercise actions once standing on it, and the unstable platform system, 1200 may also adjust accordingly and provide various motion-based responses or feedback to adjust the user's exercise experience. Pivot 1202 enables the platform 1204 of the unstable platform system 1200 to move around or adjust its movement according to the user's placement on the platform. Platform 1204 is a platform that holds the user or a surface or component that the user may stand on or balance upon on as well. Hydraulic cylinder 1206 provides support for the platform 1204 and allows the platform 1204 to move in various directions and tilts and angles. Valve 1208 provides resistance to the tilt motions and other angled motions that the platform 1204 may experience. The servo motor 1210 opens and closes the valve 1208 and may provide varying levels of resistance for the valve 1208 so that the tilt motions sent to the platform 1204 may be varied or adjusted. Computer control 1212 may control and read the rotations per minute (RPM) of the resistance mechanism 1216 or the flywheel 1220, which may be picked up by the sensor 1214. This reading may be translated through a formula to move the servo motor 1210. A slower RPM from the resistance mechanism 1216 or flywheel 1220 may open the valve and make the platform 1204 less stable. A faster RPM from the resistance mechanism 1216 or flywheel 1220 may close the valve and make the platform 1204 more stable. The resistance mechanism 1216 generates and modulates resistance—such as resistance from magnetic forces, friction or air—and translates them to the other components of the system, such as pulley 1218, flywheel 1220, chopper wheel 1222 or sensor 1214. The pulley 1218 is a pulley component connected to the other components such as the resistance mechanism 1216, the flywheel 1220 and the chopper wheel 1222. The connection 1217 connects to the pulley 1218 so as to translate motion from whatever the connection 1217 is connected to (e.g., handle, rod, bar) to the rest of the system and other components such as the resistance mechanism 1216, the flywheel 1220, or the chopper wheel 1222. In one embodiment, the connection 1217 is connected to the handle of the paddles used in the row-boat mode of the exercise mechanism. The flywheel 1220 is the first wheel that receives the translated energy and motion from the pulley 1218 and the resistance mechanism 1216. The flywheel 1220 is also then connected to the chopper wheel 1222, which also receives the translated energy and motion from other components, such as the pulley 1218, the resistance mechanism 1216, and the flywheel 1220. The sensor 1214 picks up motion from the chopper wheel 1222 so as to send information to the computer control 1212. The sensor 1214 may also pick up motion from a variety of other components such as the flywheel 1220, in addition to the chopper wheel 1222. The positioning and number of components are not limited to the positioning and configuration shown in FIG. 12.
In one embodiment, a different-type of exercise machine may be created based on the above that could utilize double or single tracks in different shapes to also further simulate different exercise motions (circular, curved, rectangular, straight, jagged, zig-zagged, straight, or a combination of any of the above). In one embodiment, on those tracks, rollers or trolleys with attachment to handles may be utilized. In one embodiment, handles could be double-blade paddles, as disclosed above by the present disclosure, or a single long adjustable, recess-able handle, a short single handle, or any type of single handle or double handle. In one embodiment, resistance may be created by weight, sandbags, bands, or other types of force. In one embodiment, an exercise mechanism to be used for exercise can be configured for use with water by building a tank around a track and adding water. In one embodiment, an exercise mechanism to be used for exercise can be configured for use without water by not using any water and by relying entirely on resistance. In one embodiment, by combining any and all of the above, several different types of exercise machines may be created and used. In one embodiment, the track may be used for different types of exercise machines, and are not limited to paddle-board exercise machines, and are not limited to paddle board movements. For example, the twist motions may have a user stand in the center of circular tracks and use an adjustable handle to turn to the left and right against resistance. As another example, a user may be positioned on a straight track that may be on rollers and that also goes up and down or comes straight out and where the user uses their shoulders or shoulders or leg muscles to move the rollers.
Those of skill will appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, units, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can often be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, units, blocks, modules, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular system and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled persons can implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular system, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the invention. In addition, the grouping of functions within a unit, module, block or step is for ease of description. Specific functions or steps can be moved from one unit, module or block without departing from the invention.
The various illustrative logical blocks, units, steps and modules described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor can be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.
The steps of a method or algorithm and the processes of a block or module described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module (or unit) executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of machine or computer readable storage medium. An exemplary storage medium can be coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium can reside in an ASIC.
Various embodiments may also be implemented primarily in hardware using, for example, components such as application specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”), or field programmable gate arrays (“FPGAs”). Implementation of a hardware state machine capable of performing the functions described herein will also be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Various embodiments may also be implemented using a combination of both hardware and software.
The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented herein represent a presently preferred embodiment of the invention and are therefore representative of the subject matter, which is broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further understood that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art.
Patent Application
20130017932
