TRANSLATORY MOTION STRENGTH TRAINING SYSTEM AND METHOD

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates, generally, to strength training apparatus adapted for conducting translatory motion against a counteracting resistance, and in particular, embodiments to strength training devices wherein a carriage and corresponding guide means are provided for translating mass under the effect of gravity along a rectilinear or curvilinear path. Certain embodiments are configured for utilizing a selectable weight stack, loaded free weights or the user's body weight as a primary resistance that is independent of velocity. The invention is directed to enhancing the results of strength training and exercise equipment for providing velocity-dependent resistance in addition to the primary “static” resistance provided by the apparatus by creating a paced resistance in addition to the primary “static” resistance provided by the apparatus at constant velocity.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

A translatory motion strength training machine refers to a strength training machine that includes a guide or pivoting means for the translatory displacement of a carriage under counter-acting resistance. Although translatory motion provided by strength training devices is generally rectilinear motion along a straight path, translatory motion may also be curvilinear motion along a curved path as well rectilinear motion along a straight path. Examples of how translatory motion may be affected include, but are not limited to, a carriage directed by a guide rail or by a linkage assembly adapted pivot along a curved path.

Translatory Strength training systems incorporating rectilinear or curvilinear displacement of a structure providing a resistance typically fit into four categories:

- (I) Selectable weight stack machines wherein a cable and pulleys are utilized to displace a stack of weights;
- (II) Manual—plate loading machines wherein free weights (i.e., plates) are loaded onto bars and wherein a rail is utilized to guide linear movements (i.e., leg press, smith machine, and home gyms configured for plate loading);
- (III) Gravity resist training machines utilizing a user support platform wherein the incline is adapted to provide adjustable resistance (i.e., “total gym”); and
- (IV) Translatory motion strength training machines that provide a primary resistance other than by a mass counteracting the effect of gravity. This includes machines utilizing elastic bands, bows, springs, and torsion elements.

Conventional translatory motion strength training machines do not provide a means of governing the speed of repetition for encouraging a repetition to be conducted slowly and without relying on inertia or momentum (often associated with cheating through the exercise movements). The present invention seeks to enhance the capability of translatory strength training systems to provide a velocity-dependent resistance in addition to the nominal resistance selected from a weight stack or by other means.

Such velocity-dependent resistance is preferably provided by a linear eddy current breaking mechanism whereby an element providing a magnetic field encounters relative motion with respect to a closely spaced, electrically conductive structure. Preferably, the eddy current resistance is adjustable wherein the velocity-dependent resistance could be adapted for an optimized strength training regime as directed by the users' preference. While the adjustable velocity-dependent resistance can be provided for high-performance fitness equipment, it is also a goal of the present invention to provide an economical means for implementation of such an apparatus adapted for home use.

Some prior art aerobic fitness equipment utilizes magnetic eddy current resistance such as stationary bikes, rowing machines, or machines that simulate swimming strokes. There are several patent disclosures in this regard. In these cases the eddy current brake resistance is provided on a member encountering rotational motion and is apparatus' sole resistance means for providing continued resistance when the machine is in motion. It is not the case with these systems that the magnetic eddy current resistance is augmented with a velocity-independent resistance means such as in the case of displacing a stack of weights. The aim of present invention is the novel adaptation of magnetic resistance technology to strength training machines undergoing translatory motion.

As with all conventional strength training machines the weight stack or user support platform moves along a rectilinear path and is supported by a rail or poles. Over time, it will become apparent that it is more advantageous to provide eddy current resistance that works over a rectilinear or curvilinear path for this particular type of machine.

Most existing translatory motion strength training machines provide a single resistance curve that cannot be altered. Some, however, enable the resistance curve to be varied; however the choice of resistance curves is significantly limited. As a result, the muscular growth of the users of such devices is limited. It would be desirable therefore, to develop an exercise device which addresses and overcomes the problems of the present devices, and provides not only a variable resistance but also a plurality of resistance curves which may be selectively chosen and easily adjusted by the user to meet his specific needs. It is further an object of the present invention to also provide an alternative means of achieving an adjustable variable resistance curve.

Correspondingly, the invention is directed toward providing a means to attain either a fixed variable resistance or an adjustable variable resistance curve over the range of movement by the user according to preferred embodiments of a velocity-dependent resistance means of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

While numerous embodiments and configurations are disclosed, the present invention relates generally, to translatory motion strength training machines wherein an exercise is conducted over a range of motion against a pre-selected resistance that is substantially independent of velocity. In numerous embodiments, a carriage is provided for translating the primary resistance along a translator path wherein the carriage assembly also encounters a secondary resistance that is substantially dependent on velocity.

In the most general terms the invention is a translatory motion strength training device for providing resistance over a range of motion includes; a support frame; a carriage guide means supported on said support frame for directing a load-bearing carriage over a range of motion; a carriage means supported within said support frame and directed by said carriage guide means for bearing a load over a translatory range of motion; an adjustable velocity-independent resistance means coupled to said carriage means for providing a resistance that is substantially independent of velocity; and an velocity-dependent resistance means also coupled to said carriage means for providing a substantially velocity-dependent resistance over at least a portion of the range of motion provided by said carriage guide means, wherein said selectable position-dependent resistance means and velocity-dependent resistance means can be exhibited in combination.

According to the invention, the preferred method of providing a velocity-dependent resistance is to utilize eddy current reaction of a magnetic structure and a conductive structure. An eddy current is an electrical phenomenon that is caused when a conductor is exposed to a changing magnetic field due to relative motion of the field source and conductor; or due to variations of the field with time. This can cause a circulating flow of electrons, or a current, within the body of the conductor. These circulating eddies of current create induced magnetic fields that oppose the change of the original magnetic field due to Lenz's law, which states, “An induced current is always in such a direction as to oppose the motion or change causing it”. This results in a repulsive or drag forces between the conductor and the magnet. The stronger the applied magnetic field, or the greater the electrical conductivity of the conductor, or the faster the field that the conductor is exposed to changes, the greater the currents that are developed and the greater the opposing field.

Beyond the most general principals, the invention includes many novel features pertaining to specific embodiments. Perceived features and benefits of the present invention are that the novel translatory motion strength training system:

- Incorporates a proprietary technology and will be marketed as such;
- Facilitates a method of training which is supported by prior research (i.e. super-slow strength training);
- Promotes a more intense and dynamic workout;
- Prevent cheating—using momentum rather than focusing on the targeted muscle group in a controlled repetition;
- Facilitates weight stacks of reduced size and mass due to the fact that lesser weight can be repeatedly lifted without utilizing momentum;
- Provides for a variable virtual load as the user is fatigued and the velocity of their recitations slows down;
- Allows a variable resistance curve over the range of motion;
- Permits an adjustable variable resistance curve where the user can select from more than one variable resistance curve;
- Allows the velocity-dependent resistance to be easily switched on or off if desired by the user; and
- Provides added benefit for athletes training for explosiveness wherein the use of momentum would be limited when conducting repetitions of the exercise only at high velocity.

Other advantages and benefits may be possible, and it is not necessary to achieve all or any of these benefits or advantages in order to practice the invention as claimed. Therefore, nothing in the aforementioned description of the possible or exemplary advantages and benefits can or should be regarded as limiting factors.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the present invention, which are considered as characteristic for the invention, are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to organization and methods of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is perspective view of the translatory motion strength training system according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein position dependent resistance is provided by displacing a selectable weight stack.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of the first preferred embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a sectional front elevation view of the first preferred embodiment along the section line of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a sectional elevation view of the first preferred embodiment along the section line of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is sectional front elevation view of an alternative configured resistance of reduced velocity-dependent resistance as compared to the configuration of the first preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is sectional front elevation view of an alternative configuration of reduced velocity-dependent resistance as compared to the configurations of the first preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view translatory motion strength machine according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein position-dependent resistance is provided by displacing free weights loaded onto a carriage.

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of the second preferred embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a back elevation view of the second preferred embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a sectional side elevation view of the second preferred embodiment along the section line of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a partial sectional view of the magnetic block assembly and conductor structure according to the second preferred embodiment taken along the section line of FIG. 10.

FIGS. 12A-D include perspective, top, front and side views, respectively, of the conductive structure according to the second preferred embodiment.

FIGS. 13A-B are front and perspective views respectively of an alternative conductive structure according to the second preferred embodiment of a translatory motion strength training apparatus wherein position-dependent resistance is provided by displacing free weights loaded onto a carriage directed on an incline.

FIGS. 14A-D are side, front, side sectional, and front sectional views of a magnetic block assembly according to the second preferred embodiment.

FIGS. 15A-C are side sectional view of showing the carriage assembly and magnetic block at various positions with respect to conductor structure along the range of motion according to the second preferred embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of the second preferred embodiment wherein the conductor structure is disengaged with respect to the magnetic blocks of the carriage assembly and is in a pivoted position for selection of a preferred conductive plate associated with a pre-determined, velocity-dependent resistance that also varies with position.

FIG. 17 is a side elevation view of the configuration shown in FIG. 16 wherein the conductor structure is shown in a pivoted disengaged position.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the collapsed configuration of a third preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein the translatory motion strength training machine is foldable and relies on the users' body weight as directed along an adjustable incline for providing a resistance.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the third preferred embodiment in a deployed configuration.

FIG. 20 is a side elevation view of the third preferred embodiment in the deployed configuration.

FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the user support carriage according to the third preferred embodiment taken along the section line of FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of the third preferred embodiment in the deployed configuration.

FIG. 23 is a sectional side elevation view of the third preferred embodiment taken along the section line of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is an exploded detail view showing the magnetic block as inscribed by the detail circle presented in FIG. 23.

FIGS. 25A-C are sectional side elevation views of the lower portion of the third embodiment of the translatory motion strength training apparatus with the user support carriage at various positions along its predetermined range of motion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As utilized herein, terms such as “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and “near” are intended to allow an element of flexibility in mathematical exactness to account for tolerances that are acceptable in the trade as should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Before explaining the present invention in detail, it should be noted that the invention is not limited in its application or use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The illustrative embodiments of the invention may be implemented or incorporated in other embodiment, variations and modifications, and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions employed herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the illustrative embodiments of the present invention and are not for the purpose of limiting the invention. Further it is understood that any one or more of the following-described embodiments, expressions of embodiments, examples, methods, etc. can be combined with any one or more of the other following—described embodiments, expressions or embodiments, examples, methods, etc.

Velocity-independent resistance is the resistance provided by the translatory motion strength training machine at a particular position when velocity is constant or zero. Examples of position-dependent resistance might include, but are not limited to, displacement of a mass under the attraction of gravity or the displacement of one end of a spring element such as a coil spring, bow, or elastic band.

Velocity-dependent resistance is the added resistance provided by the translatory motion strength training machine that is essentially zero when velocity is zero and that increases with increasing velocity.

Within this description, numerals are utilized to designate referenced features of particular embodiment of the invention. Letters are also sometimes used such as A, B, C to designate multiple occurrences of the same, R and L to designate right side and left side of symmetrical structures, and T or B to designate top and bottom occurrences of a component or feature.

A first preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1-6 of a translatory motion strength training machine 30 includes frame 31 and seated row extension assembly 90 adapted for performing seated row type exercises. In this case, multiple occurrences of weight plate 52A-H are guided by guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L and are utilized as the primary resistance according to what is commonly known as a selectable weight stack machine or pin selector machine. The primary position-dependent resistance can be easily selected by placing selector pin 59 in one of several pin selector holes 56K-0 for engaging the desired occurrences of weight plate 52A-N to be coupled to carriage assembly 54.

In FIGS. 1-2 illustrates a selectable weight stack strength training machine 30. Frame 31 is supported by frame base 32 and footer beam 35 which reside in a cross formation against the floor. Rear column 28 and front column 37, which are interconnected to frame base 32, form the basis for seated row extension assembly 90. Seated row extension assembly 90 is provided with bench 40, foot plate 39R and foot plate 39L for supporting the user during the exercise. Although the particular embodiment shows a machine configured for a seated row, an alternative configuration providing most any exercise movement can be practiced within the context of the present invention.

Frame 31 further includes column 33R and column 33L extending upward from footer beam 35 for supporting header beam 36. Rear column 34 extends upward from the end of frame base 32 and is utilized in conjunction with header beam 36 for supporting extension arm 58. While providing fixed attachment to extension arm 58, header beam 36 is also utilized for securing the top ends of guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L in the intended fixed positions. The bottom ends of guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L are secured to footer beam 35 in the corresponding fixed positions for vertical alignment in a fixed spatially parted relationship. Bumper 60R and bumper 60L are provided around guide pole 51R and guide pole 51L underneath weight plate 52. Numerous occurrences of weight plate 52 are provided that can be engaged according to the desired resistance.

For the purpose of translating the exercise motion to the displacement of one or more weight plate 52, a cable is provided to facilitate translatory motion of carriage assembly 54 when handle 49 is displaced by user in conducting the exercise. Selectable weight stack strength training machine 30 utilizes pulleys 44, 46, 48 to direct the cable 42 from the vertical projection of cable 42 as connected to weight selector rod 66 to a substantially horizontal projection when pulled against pulley 48 with attached handle 49. Pulley 48 is supported with a pin interconnected by pulley mounting plate 47R and 47L that are affixed to front column 37. Resting plate 50 is provided near pulley 48, also affixed to front column 37 to provide a resting place for handle 49 when not in use. Pulley 46 is fixed in position by a pin through pulley mounting plate 45R and pulley mounting plate 45L that are affixed to extension arm 58. Pulley 46 is fixed in position by a pin through pulley mounting plate 43R and pulley mounting plate 43L also affixed to extension arm 58.

Carriage assembly 54 is adapted to be directed vertically by guide pole 51R and weight plate 52L when handle 49 is pulled and cable 42 is extended. According to this embodiment of the present invention, carriage assembly 54 provides the primary resistance in performing the exercises wherein header plate 61 affixed to weight selector rod 66 with bolt 65 and weight selector rod 66 provides the additional attachment of one or more occurrences of weight plate 52A-N with selector pin 59 placed into desired pin slot 53. Weight selector rod includes plunger end 68 that has tapered leading-end geometry capable of facilitating repeated passage through occurrences of weight plate 52A-N that are not coupled to carriage assembly 54.

The resistance provided by coupled occurrences of weight plate 52A-N is a resistance that is substantially constant with constant velocity. According to this first preferred embodiment, the resistance provided by one or more weight plate 52A-N will also be substantially constant over the range of motion as no cam or lever arm is currently known to be used in the field to provide a variable resistance curve over the range of motion.

With regard to the novel aspect of the first preferred embodiment selectable weight stack strength training machine 30, magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are coupled to carriage assembly 54 and directed along guide poles 51R and 51L to provide a substantially velocity-dependent resistance of escalating resistance with increasing velocity when carriage assembly 54 is displaced by user.

FIGS. 2-4 illustrate locking bracket 82 affixed to header plate 61 with bolt 86, wherein locking bracket 82 is utilized to couple lock pin 73B of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B to locking bracket 82 which, in turn, is coupled to weight selector rod 66 and one or more weight plate 52A-N in forming carriage assembly 54. As shown, magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T are adapted to be coupled to header plate 61 whereby they are included as part of carriage assembly 54. Magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T are both provided along each of guide poles 51R and 51L.

FIGS. 3-4 present the attachment and composition of magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T. In this embodiment, magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are identical in configuration. They each include housing 71 that are characterized with bore 75 and housing bore 76 for accommodating multiple occurrences of ring magnet 81D and ring magnet 81U in a configuration of alternating magnetic polarity with occurrences of spacing ring 80 disposed in between. The alternating configuration of ring magnets 81D and 81U provides an alternating magnetic field which passes through corresponding guide pole 51R or guide pole 51L. Preferably ring magnets 81D and 81U are Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) magnets that have a high magnetic energy product that exceeds 30 MGOe. Multiple occurrences of spacing ring 80A-H are ferromagnetic and are preferably Iron or a high permeability magnetic alloy such as many Nickel alloys. As a low impedance conductor of magnetic flux, spacing ring 80A-H serves to widen the magnetic flux path through guide poles 51R and 51L and allows ease of assembly of ring magnets 81U and 81D in an alternating configuration without the need of overcoming significant repulsive forces during assembly.

According to the first preferred embodiment of the invention, guide poles 51R and 51L are an electrically conductive material such as structural aluminum alloy. Preferably an aluminum shaft would have a precisely defined outside diameter with hard ceramic coating and be characterized with a surface roughness of 8-12 RMS as are readily available. The shaft size is preferably 1 inch or greater diameter wherein the eddy-current resistance per unit length will increase with increasing shaft size. Alternatively, guide poles 51R and 51L could preferably be anodized at surface or be a composite of two materials wherein a rod is fitted within a tube wherein an outer tube is a hard structural element and the other electrically conductive material such as copper. As magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are guided along guide poles 51R and 51L during the displacement of carriage assembly 54 in performing the exercise, eddy currents will be produced within the proximal electrically conductive regions of corresponding guide poles 51R and 51L. These eddy currents will produce a field opposing the magnetic field produced by magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B, and will cause additional resistance to be exhibited in the displacement of carriage assembly 54 against the user performing the exercise. This additional resistance provided by the eddy currents generated by the alternating magnetic field will be substantially velocity-dependent wherein the added “drag” is substantially zero at zero velocity and increases with increasing velocity.

According to this first preferred embodiment, magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are configured to be separable from each other and to be separable from header plate 61 by bayonet type fittings wherein a number of hook projections engage pins by the twisting-locking action of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B. Corresponding handles 72B and 72A are provided to the user to twist for engagement and disengagement of magnetic resistance cylinders and for lifting and hanging of the same.

If it is desired not to reduce the velocity-dependent resistance provided by the invention, one or both of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B can be de-coupled from header plate 61 of carriage assembly 54 and attached to hanging brackets 84R and 84L as shown in FIG. 5 wherein magnetic resistance cylinder 70T of guide poles 51R and 51L are removed from carriage assembly 54. FIG. 6 shows the configuration of both magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are removed from carriage assembly 54 and vertically supported near header beam 36.

Corresponding to the configuration of FIG. 5 the velocity-dependent resistance exhibited by the machine will be approximately one half that associated with both magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B coupled to carriage assembly 54. Corresponding to the configuration shown FIG. 6, carriage assembly 54 will not exhibit any significant velocity-dependent resistance as is the case with prior art strength training machines.

Enabling features that provide the coupling and decoupling of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T and 70B are best seen in FIGS. 3-4. Locking brackets 82R and 82L are secured to header plate 61 with multiple occurrences bolt 86 secured in corresponding occurrences of threaded hole 83. Locking bracket 82 includes four occurrences of locking hook 78 for removable-attachment of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B thereto. Header plate 61 includes guide hole 62 provided by affixed bushing 57 for providing a low friction guiding support of carriage assembly 54 along guide poles (guide poles 51R and 51L).

70B and magnetic resistance cylinder 70T each include four occurrences of lock pin 73 near the bottom end for engagement with corresponding locking hooks. Magnetic resistance cylinders 70B and 70T each include locking header bracket 77 bolted to the top portion of housing 71. Locking header bracket 77 includes four occurrences of locking hook 78 for interfacing with interlocking pins. Lock pin 73 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B is adapted for interlocking with locking hook 78 of locking bracket 82. Lock pin 73 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70T is adapted for interlocking with locking hook 78 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B. Lock pin 85 of hanging brackets 84R and 84L are adapted for interlocking with locking hook 78 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70T. Compression gasket 79 is provided on locking bracket 82 to provide some compression for the bayonet type attachment of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B to locking bracket 82. Compression gasket 79 is provided on locking header bracket 77 of magnetic resistance cylinder 70B to provide some compression for the bayonet type attachment of magnetic resistance cylinders 70T to 70B.

FIGS. 7-15 illustrates a second preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein strength training apparatus is a plate loaded type of translatory strength training machine adapted for the exercise movement know as the leg press wherein a plate loaded carriage assembly is displaced upward against the force of gravity at an incline along linear guide rails.

Leg press strength training apparatus 100 is supported on the floor by base frame 102 includes cross beam 103, side beam 104R, side beam 104L, and back rest support beam 105. Vertical frame 107 extends upward near the rear of the machine and includes column 108R extending from side beam 104R and column 108L extending from side beam 104L. Cross beam 109 bridges across column 108L and column 108R to provide structural reinforcement. Inclined frame 111 intersects base frame 102 along cross beam 103 and includes 112R suspended by column 108R and 112L suspended by column 108L. Inclined frame 111 includes cross beam 113 near the top of vertical frame 107 spanning across inclined frame 111. These elements are the primary structural elements of the machine frame which are preferably welded together or alternatively bolted together.

The user is supported by seat 101 which is secured to inclined frame 111 and by height adjustment mechanism 127 linked to back rest support beam 105. Back rest assembly 125 can be pivoted at hinge joint 126 interconnected at cross beam 103 and is adjustable as shown by alternating the length of height adjustment mechanism 127 as are used in the art.

Carriage assembly 150 is directed in a rectilinear path along inclined frame 111 wherein linear shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L are provided for supporting linear bearing assembly 152R and linear bearing assembly 152L of carriage assembly 150. Linear shaft 115R is secured by extension shoulder 114R extending from 112R on the bottom end and is secured to cross beam 113 at the top of inclined frame 111. Likewise linear shaft 115L is secured by extension shoulder extending from 112L near the bottom end and is secured to cross beam 113 at the top of inclined frame 111. As shown linear shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L are secured in a spaced apart parallel relationship. Preferably linear shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L are precision hardened steel shafts and are sized sufficiently to support the weight of carriage assembly 150 supporting the incline associated with inclined frame 111. Linear shaft 115R and linear shaft 115L further include top bumper 116R, bottom bumper 117R, top bumper 116L, and bottom bumper 117L near the respective ends.

Carriage assembly 150 is adapted for carrying a load associated with several occurrences of free weight 164 loaded on to receiving end 163R and receiving end 163L. This load is translated to cross bar 160 which is structurally coupled to other elements of carriage assembly 150 including foot plate 155 and top spanner plate 153. Linear bearing assemblies 152R and 152L are structurally coupled to and sandwiched between top spanner plate 153 and bottom spanner plate 154. Compression beams 156R and 156L are provided to structurally support foot plate 155 in a fixed orientation. Thus when a user is seated in leg press strength training apparatus 100 and applies sufficient force against foot plate 155, carriage assembly 150 will be guided as a single unit along linear shafts 115R and 115L.

For the purposes of locking carriage assembly 150 in a position that is not completely at the end of the range of motion and as a safety mechanism, lock bars 120R and 120L are provided coupled to 112R and 112L of inclined frame 111 respectively. Lock bar 120L is coupled to 112L at front pivot support bracket 118L at the proximal end and rear pivot support bracket 119L at the distal end, front pivot support bracket 118L and rear pivot support bracket 119L allow pivoting shaft 121L to pivot along its axis with the turn of handle 124L by the users' hands. Primary lock tab 122L and secondary lock tab 123L are welded to pivoting shaft 121L for abutting against landing pad 162L supported on cross bar 160 of carriage assembly 150. Likewise lock bar 120R includes the same features for providing the functionality of locking carriage assembly 150 in various positions along its range of motion. That is, lock bar 120R is coupled to 112R at front pivot support bracket 118R at the proximal end and rear pivot support bracket 119R at the distal end. Front pivot support bracket 118R and rear pivot support bracket 119R allow pivoting shaft 121R to pivot along its axis with the turn of handle 124R by the user. Primary lock tab 122R and secondary lock tab 123R are welded to pivoting shaft 121R for abutting against stop pad 129R supported on cross bar 160 of carriage assembly 150.

As described up to now, leg press strength training apparatus 100 provides the user with a resistance that is substantially independent of velocity which is determined by the total weight of carriage assembly 150 including the occurrences of free weight 164 and the incline of inclined frame 111. The unique aspects of the invention according to the second preferred embodiment will be described which also provides a substantially velocity-dependent resistance to the user in addition to the “static” resistance provided by the combined mass of carriage assembly 150 and occurrences of free weight 164. According to this second preferred embodiment, eddy-current resistance is also employed but in a different scheme as indicated in the first preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-6.

To achieve velocity-dependent resistance, leg press strength training apparatus 100 includes pivoting structure 136 supported by side beam 104, vertical frame 107 and inclined frame 111 which is adapted to interface with magnetic block assemblies 171R and 171L secured to the underside of carriage assembly 150 as seen in FIGS. 8 and 10. Mounting base 170 is provided affixed to bottom spanner plate 154 for the mounting of magnetic block assemblies 171R and 171L in a symmetrical spaced apart relationship to the underside of carriage assembly 150.

As best seen in FIGS. 14A-14D, each occurrence of magnetic block assembly 171 (R or L) include magnetic block assembly 171 adapted for securing to mounting base 170 and for supporting multiple occurrences of block magnet 173A and block magnet 173B in the indicated positions. Block magnets 173A and 173B are provided in an alternating configuration wherein the magnetic poles of adjacent magnets are opposing. This configuration results in an alternating magnetic field within a region of space proximal to magnetic block assembly 171 and especially cover box 174. The occurrences of block magnets 173A and 173B are secured within a central pocket of cover box 174. Cover box 174 is in turn secured to mounting bracket 172 with multiple occurrences of bolt 175.

Mounting bracket 172 is preferably a ferromagnetic material with a high permeability for conducting magnet flux in the backside of magnetic block assembly 171 for eliminating stray field and for focusing the field toward the region of front side of magnetic block assembly 171 for interfacing with conductive turret 137 of pivoting structure 136. According to this embodiment cover box 174 is a non-magnetic material and has a minimal wall thickness adjacent to encased occurrences of block magnets 173A and 173B. Block magnets 173A and 173B are preferably strong thick and wide magnets for providing an intense magnetic field which alternates along the outside face of cover box 174. Thus, when encountering relative motion when in close proximity to an electrically conductive plate 139C such as shown in configuration of FIG. 11, substantial eddy currents will be generated in the conductive plate 139C that would produce a force in opposition to the direction of movement.

According to this second preferred embodiment, pivoting structure 136 provides a means to engage a conductive plate in close proximity to magnetic block assemblies 171R and 171L of carriage assembly 150. Pivoting structure 136 is adapted to pivot away from carriage assembly 150 when disengaged as shown in FIGS. 16-17 or locked in a substantially parallel relationship with inclined frame 111 when engaged in relationship with carriage assembly 150. Base frame 102 further includes cross beam 106 spanning between side beams 104R and 104L. Cross beam 106 includes hinge 128 at center for providing a pivoting interface with hinge bracket 147 of pivoting structure 136. Support rod 144 extends between hinge bracket 147 at lower pivoting end to lock bracket 148 at locking end. Conductive turret 137 is located at an intended position between tubular elements front tube segment 145 and rear tube segment 146. For locking pivoting structure 136 in the engaged position shown in FIGS. 7-11, cross beam 113 of inclined frame 111 further includes bracket 131 for pivoting attachment of attachment arm 130 for holding pivoting structure 136 in a fixed pivoted position when locking pin 149 is inserted for coupling lock bracket 148 to attachment arm 130.

When locking pin 149 is removed or temporally pulled to release pivoting structure 136 from attachment arm 130, pivoting structure 136 can be pivoted downward into a de-coupled relationship with respect to mounting bracket 172R and mounting bracket 172L as shown in FIGS. 16-17. When released, stop pad 129 secured to base frame 102 will provide a stop against front tube segment 145 in limiting the angular rotation of pivoting structure 136. In the released position, pivoting structure 136 is suspended in a position wherein conductive turret 137 can be rotated without contact against cross beam 109, shoulder structure 110R or shoulder structure 110L.

As best seen in FIG. 10 and FIG. 16, shoulder structure 110R and shoulder structure 110L are closely spaced structures suspended from cross beam 113 which provide a gap there in between. This gap serves to engage conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D of conductive turret 137 in a fixed radial orientation when pivoting structure 136 is connected to attachment arm 130 with locking pin 149 of lock bracket 148. When pivoting structure 136 is engaged shoulder structure 110R and shoulder structure 110L will prohibit the rotation of conductive turret 137 and fix conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D in a substantially parallel relationship such as shown in FIG. 11 with conductive plate 139C centrally located between magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L. It can further be appreciated from FIG. 11 that conductive plate 139C is in close proximity with block magnet 173A and block magnet 173B of magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L although not touching the two occurrences of cover box 174.

This second preferred embodiment provides a substantially large interface of a thick section of conductive plate fully interfaced to a substantially strong alternating magnetic field provided over a substantially large surface area by substantially thick magnets. Correspondingly, substantially large eddy-currents will be generated corresponding to the velocity of relative translation of carriage assembly 150 with respective conductive turret 137. Accordingly, this embodiment of plate and slot configuration providing eddy current can produce substantially greater velocity-dependent resistance as would be appropriate for a leg press exercise with higher loads as opposed to a the seated row strength training apparatus described in the first preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-6.

Now describing pivoting structure 136 of the second preferred embodiment, conductive turret 137 of pivoting structure 136 is a structure with multiple outward projecting plates extending from a tubular section. As indicated in FIGS. 12A-12D a preferred configuration of conductive turret 137 includes four plates, conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C and conductive plate 139D extending from tubular portion 138 at 90 degrees apart. Each plate initiates at front shoulder 140 and terminates at rear shoulder 141 and correspondingly includes leading taper 142A, leading taper 142B, leading taper 142C, and leading taper 142D. The leading taper provides a transition for magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L to have minimum engagement with respect to one of conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D during the beginning of the leg press movement as shown in the position of carriage assembly 150 of FIG. 15A. Thus the added velocity-dependent eddy current resistance generated by the plate and slot interaction of pivoting structure 136 with magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L will be less at the beginning of the range of movement than at the end when the full width of conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D is interfaced with magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L.

In addition to the tapered leading end, numerous occurrences of perforations 143B, perforations 143C and perforations 143D will provide a diminished velocity-dependent resistance than what would be associated with a non-perforated conductive plate of equal thickness such as conductive plate 139A. Perforations or holes within the conductive plate will reduce the extent of eddy current formation and thus the opposing force as carriage assembly 150 is displaced along its range of motion.

Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15C. The extent of velocity-dependent resistance will vary as magnetic block assembly 171L and magnetic block assembly 171R (not shown) are translated with respect to conductive plate 139C of conductive turret 137. At the starting position of FIG. 15A, velocity-dependent resistance due to the creation of eddy currents in conductive plate 139C will be minimal as only a portion of conductive plate 139C is in proximal relationship with the alternating magnetic field of magnetic block assembly 171L and magnetic block assembly 171R. Eddy currents will also be minimal because the portion of conductive plate 139C that is in proximal relationship with the alternating magnetic field of magnetic block assembly 171L and magnetic block assembly 171R exhibits a high density of perforations 143C. At a position in the mid range of motion as shown in FIG. 15B velocity-dependent resistance caused by induced eddy currents in conductive plate 139C will be greater than at the position of FIG. 15A since at this position leading taper 142C has been bypassed. Velocity-dependent resistance will be highest near the end of the range of motion as shown in FIG. 15C since in this position both leading taper 142C and perforations 143C will be substantially bypassed. Thus the velocity dependence exhibited by the electrical magnetic interaction of carriage assembly 150 with pivoting structure 136 will vary depending on the relative position of magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L with respect to conductive plate 139C over the range of motion.

Correspondingly this second preferred embodiment of the device provides a variable velocity-dependent resistance curve which can be adjusted based on which of conductive plate 139A, conductive plate 139B, conductive plate 139C, or conductive plate 139D is engaged in a proximal relationship with respect to magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171L of carriage assembly 150 shown in FIG. 11. Now referring back to FIGS. 12A-12D, as opposed to conductive plate 139A which includes no perforations, conductive plate 139B includes perforations 143B which extends from front shoulder 140 over a portion of conductive plate 139B. Perforations 143C of conductive plate 139C extend over a greater distance from front shoulder 140 than perforations 143B. Perforations 143D of conductive plate 1390 extend over a greater distance from front shoulder 140 than perforations 143C. Thus conductive plate 139A, tubular portion 138B, conductive plate 139C, and conductive plate 139D will each be characterized by a differing velocity-dependent resistance curve as carriage assembly 150 is directed through its range of motion.

If according to the users preference it is desired to conduct the exercise without the augmentation of a velocity-dependent resistance, the user can simply disengage pivoting structure 136 and leave in the pivoted position as shown in FIGS. 16-17 wherein conductive turret 137 is not in a proximal relationship with respect to magnetic block assembly 171R and magnetic block assembly 171R of carriage assembly 150. Thus according to this embodiment of the invention there are essentially five settings pertaining to the selectable velocity-dependent resistance that varies with respect to position. This includes from least velocity-dependent resistance to greatest velocity-dependent resistance:

(1) The state of total disengagement of conductive turret

(2) The state of engagement of conductive plate 139D of conductive turret 137

(3) The state of engagement of conductive plate 139C of conductive turret 137

(4) The state of engagement of conductive plate 139B of conductive turret 137

(5) The state of engagement of conductive plate 139A of conductive turret 137 providing the greatest extent of velocity-dependent resistance over most of the range of motion.

Shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, is conductive turret 190 of an alternative configuration as compared to conductive turret 137 of FIGS. 12A-12D. This configuration differs in that increased occurrences of conductive plate 192A-H are provided for providing velocity-dependent resistance over a differing range of motion. In this case eight plates are provided at forty-five degrees rather than four at ninety degrees. Conductive plates 192A-H extending outward from axis of tubular portion, 191 each have a corresponding leading taper 194A-H that initiates at a position incrementally more closer from front shoulder 193. Thus conductive plate 192A will provide the smallest range of motion in which a velocity-dependent resistance will be realized (at the end of the exercise motion) while conductive plate 192H will facilitate a velocity-dependent resistance over essentially the full range of motion.

Referring to FIGS. 18-25C a third preferred embodiment of a translatory motion strength training device is shown. From an above view user support platform strength training machine 200 is nearly identical to what is commonly known as the popular “total gym” relies on the users' body weight supported in an incline as the primary position dependent resistance. As indicated in the configuration shown in FIG. 18, this embodiment of the invention is compact and foldable. On account that it doesn't rely on a weight stack or loaded free weights, user support platform strength training machine 200 is also light, portable. User support platform strength training machine 200 is also comparatively low cost to manufacture especially considering the number of exercises movements that user support platform strength training machine 200 can potentially facilitate.

Unlike prior art systems such as the “Total Gym,” this embodiment of the present invention includes means for a velocity-dependent in conjunction with the velocity-independent resistance provided substantially by the users' body weight.

Now describing the third preferred embodiment in detail, user support platform strength training machine 200 includes vertical frame 201, top rail frame 202, bottom rail frame 203 and user support platform 204 and foot rest 205 as the primary structural assemblies. As indicated in FIG. 18 these structures can be folded in such a configuration to occupy a small foot print or volume for storage.

Referring to FIG. 19-23, user support platform strength training machine 200 is shown in the deployed configuration as ready for conducting an exercise movement such as a chest press where as a user would sit on user support platform 204 and grab handle 207R and handle 207L connected to ends of cable 206. As user would displace handle 207R and handle 207L either unilaterally or bilaterally causing user support platform 204 to roll upward along bottom rail frame 203 and top rail frame 202.

Vertical frame 201 includes base tube 212 on which rubber sleeve 213R and rubber sleeve 213L are connected for residing on the floor. U-frame 216 is a U-shaped structural member adapted for residing in a substantially vertical position. U-frame 216 of vertical frame 201 includes numerous occurrences of vertical hook 217R and corresponding occurrences of vertical hook 217L for providing support positions in adjusting incline of bottom rail frame 203, top rail frame 202 and user support platform 204 and thus the relative resistance provided by the users' body weight. Base tube 212 of vertical frame 201 further includes pivot plate 214R and pivot plate 214L for supporting bolt 215 for providing a pivot interface with compression strut 210. Compression strut 210 extends for base tube 212 to end pivot 224 which defines the pivot of the three structures top rail frame 202, bottom rail frame 203 and compression strut 210. Compression strut 210 ensures that when incline of vertical frame 201, top rail frame 202, and user support platform 204 is changed with respect to the several occurrences of vertical hook 217R and corresponding occurrences of vertical hook 217L to various inclines that vertical frame 201 remains in a vertical orientation.

When user support platform strength training machine 200 is deployed, top rail frame 202 and bottom rail frame 203 pivot about end pivot 224 to lock in a substantially parallel relationship to form a rail guide bridging across top rail frame 202 and bottom rail frame 203. Top rail frame 202 includes top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L for directing user support platform 204. Cross bar 223 spans across between top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L for providing lateral structural support. Structural elements are also provided at end pivot 224 in the form of a shaft and dispersed spacers (not shown) for providing lateral support and spacing for the lower ends of top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L. At the top ends of top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L corresponding curved end 227R and curved end 227L are provided as advantageous for hanging top rail frame 202 at various elevations wherein lateral hook 225R and lateral hook 225L extend from curved end 227R and curved end 227L for engaging with one of the several occurrences of vertical hook 217R and the corresponding occurrence of vertical hook 217L at equal elevation.

Eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L are further provided on curved end 227R and curved end 227L respectively to provide an attachment point for pulley block 208R and pulley block 208L respectively with carabineer 209R and carabineer 209L. Thus pulley block 208R and pulley block 208L are allowed to essentially hinge and pivot about eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L respectively.

Bottom rail frame 203 is coupled to top rail frame 202 at end pivot 224 with pivot tab 237R and conductive plate 238R interconnected to bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L. Bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L of bottom rail frame 203 are of the same width and are in the same spaced-apart-parallel relationship as top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L of top rail frame 202. Base tube 232 is provided at bottom of bottom rail frame 203 and includes rubber sleeve 233R and rubber sleeve 233L for residing on the floor. Bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L are structurally coupled to top rail frame 202 in a fixed spaced apart relationship with fasteners or are alternatively welded in place. Foot rest 205 includes platform 229 supported by frame 228 which is removably attachable (fasteners not shown) to the bottom ends of bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L in the position and orientation shown.

Top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L of top rail frame 202 are of a substantially rectangular cross-section and, in the deployed configuration, co-linear with bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L of bottom rail frame 203 for providing a lengthy rail for supporting the translatory motion of user support platform 204 during the performance of an exercise movement. When not displaced, user support platform 204 is supported entirely on bottom rail frame 203 and resides against bumper 234R and bumper 234L affixed to bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L respectively. When displaced, as shown in FIGS. 25B and 25C, user support platform 204 is directed upward away from bottom of bottom rail frame 203 and passing end pivot 224 to roll along top rail segment 220R and top rail segment 220L.

Now referring back to FIGS. 19-24, user support platform 204 includes base plate 240 with pad 241 secured to the outside thereon and roller bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L secured to the underside thereon by numerous occurrences of bolt 244. As best seen in FIG. 21, two occurrences of roller bracket 242 are each supported within roller bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L and the leading and trailing ends of user support platform 204. Roller bracket 242R and roller bracket 242L provide that the occurrences of track roller assembly 243 in roller bracket 242R are at a symmetrical spaced apart relationship consistent with the spacing of top rail segment 220R and bottom rail segment 230R with respect to top rail segment 220L and bottom rail segment 230L. Thus when user support platform 204 is placed on bottom rail frame 203 it can role upward along the rail provided by top rail segment 220R and bottom rail segment 230R on the right side and top rail segment 220L and bottom rail segment 230L on the left side.

User support platform 204 further includes pulley bracket 245 mounted to underside of base plate 240 by several occurrences of bolt 247. Pulley bracket 245 provides an eyelet means to attach pulley block 208C with carabineer 209C in the indicated position. It can now be understood that with pulley block 208C connected to user support platform 204 and with pulley block 208R and pulley block 208L connected to eyelet 226R and eyelet 226L respectively of top rail frame 202, that with cable 206 routed as shown that downward displacement of handle 207R and handle 207L will cause upward displacement of platform providing the means for a user to act against body weight when performing an exercise movement.

It also unique to this particular embodiment that the resistance encountered by the user at a fixed velocity will vary according to the position of user support platform 204 through the range of translatory motion. This is on account of the change in included angle of cable 206 as it is rapped around pulley of pulley block 208C and supported by pulley block 208R and pulley block 208L. Due to the changing angle of applying a tension to cable 206 for displacing user support platform 204 the velocity-independent resistance will increase as the user support platform 204 is displaced upward. Thus the primary resistance provided by the users' body weight supported on user support platform 204 will be significantly position dependent especially near the end of the range of motion.

Now the features of user support platform strength training machine 200 that provide for an additional velocity-dependent resistance will be described in detail. Eddy current resistive interaction is provided by conductive plate 238 structurally coupled to bottom rail frame 203 and magnetic block assembly 250 attached to base plate 240 on the underside of user support platform 204.

As best understood from FIG. 21, FIG. 23 and FIG. 24 magnetic block assembly 250 is displaced on the underside of user support platform 204 in a central region near the trailing end. Magnetic block assembly 250 in attached to bracket 251A and bracket 251B by several occurrences of bolt 255 wherein bracket 251A and bracket 251B are attached to base plate 240 with bolts (shown but not referenced). Magnetic block assembly 250 includes housing 253 that houses several occurrences of block magnet 254 in a configuration of alternating magnetic polarity as shown in FIG. 24. Housing 253 is preferably a ferromagnetic material of high magnetic permeability such as iron for conducting the magnetic flux associated with the occurrences of block magnet 254 away from the top side of user support platform 204 and toward adjacent conductive plate 238 secured to bottom rail frame 203. Thus conductive plate 238 is subject to an intense alternating magnetic field that will cause eddy currents to be generated within conductive plate 238 when encountering relative motion with respect to magnetic block assembly 250.

It can be appreciated from the relative width, depth and thickness, and number of occurrences of block magnet 254 within magnetic block assembly 250 that a substantial alternating magnetic field will be exhibited especially if the magnets used are Neodymium Boron Iron magnets of a high energy product.

Now referring to the mounting of conductive plate 238, this is best seen FIG. 20, FIG. 23, and FIGS. 25A-25C. Conductive plate 238 is a substantially wide plate spanning the width associated with magnetic block assembly 250 and extending from near the bottom rail frame 203 to the top of bottom rail frame 203 near end pivot 224. Conductive plate 238 includes several spaced apart occurrences of rib 239 on the underside which provide structural rigidity to conductive plate 238 when encountering forces associated with eddy-current generated resistances. Occurrences of rib 239 also includes holes for fixation on one end at end pivot 224 and fixation at the bottom end by mounting rod 235 which is attached to tab 236R and tab 236L that are in turn welded to the insides of bottom rail segment 230R and bottom rail segment 230L respectively.

Tab 236R and tab 236L provide that the displacement of conductive plate 238 with respect to magnetic block assembly 250 is further at the bottom of bottom rail frame 203 than at the top of bottom rail frame 203 near end pivot 224. FIGS. 25A-C show the relative position of magnetic block assembly 250 with respect to conductive plate 238 of bottom rail frame 203 as user support platform 204 is guided through its range of motion. At the start position, shown in FIG. 25A, the gap between magnetic block assembly 250 and conductive plate 238 is at a maximum. At the middle position shown in FIG. 25B the gap narrows. And at the top position as shown in FIG. 25C the gap between magnetic block assembly 250 and conductive plate 238 is at a minimum. This aspect of the third preferred embodiment provides the user with a velocity-dependent resistance that increases as the user support platform 204 encounters translatory motion during the performance of an exercise in conjunction with the primary resistance associated with the users' weight at an incline.

The previous embodiments are specific examples of the invention that in general provide the augmentation of a velocity-resistance in addition the resistance that is substantially independent of velocity. The extra functionality provided by the present invention has the benefit of giving users more control as to how they design their workout and how they perform the exercise movement in optimizing their routine for producing improved results wherein the translatory motion strength training apparatus limits the ability of the user to use inertia in cheating through their strength training routine.

It is understood from the above description of second and third preferred embodiments that there are numerous ways to provide a velocity-dependent resistance that is also dependent on position. For example, it is possible to utilize plate(s) as the electrically conductive element includes variable cross sections wherein the eddy-current resistance would vary during the range of motion. Using conductive plates with various hole patterns would provide damping that would change during the range of motion. An alternative way to achieve adjustable variable resistance is to provide a means to vary the interface of one or more conductive element(s) with respect to the magnetic component(s). For example, if a deep slot is provided wherein an electrically conductive plate is positioned between two magnetic blocks, the depth of the conductive plate within that slot can be adjusted at an incline so that eddy-current resistance will vary over the range of translatory motion. Changes in thickness of a conductive plate as the resistance carrying carriage transverses will also provide variable resistance in addition to speed-dependent damping. Correspondingly, the variable resistance means can be provided according to an embodiment of the present invention that achieves a similar advantage to prior art systems that facilitate adjustable variable resistance curves.

It is also understood that embodiments of the present invention can provide an added benefit for explosive strength training such as for athletes training for specific sports, wherein a user would attempt to conduct the exercise movement within a limited period of time despite the additional velocity-dependent resistance provided. Such training would be productive since the athlete would be limited to the extent that momentum could be used to assist with the exercise movement. If the velocity-dependent resistance means is adapted to be variable over the range of motion and the user is attempting to conduct repetitions at high frequency, the virtual resistance of the translatory motion strength training apparatus will vary over the range of motion even if the resistance provided by a mass or other resistance means (independent of velocity) is not variable. Therefore an added benefit of the present invention is that resistance curves generated can be both dependent on velocity and position as is not the case with prior art systems.

Although the present invention has been described herein with reference to a particular embodiment, it will be understood that this description is exemplary in nature and is not considered as a limitation on the scope of the invention. The scope and spirit of the present invention is therefore only limited by the appended claims and the reasonable interpretation thereof:

	Number	Date	Country
	61230897	Aug 2009	US
	61234030	Aug 2009	US

TRANSLATORY MOTION STRENGTH TRAINING SYSTEM AND METHOD

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