FIELD OF USE
The present disclosure relates generally to exercise equipment. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to barbell attachment devices that provide various weight resistances on a barbell, relative to the horizontal plane of the barbell.
SUMMARY
To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the following discloses a barbell collar that provides various weight resistances in relation to the center of gravity of a barbell.
One embodiment of the present disclosure may be a barbell collar, comprising: a plate; and at least two weight bars, a first weight bar and a second weight bar; wherein the plate comprises a barbell engagement portion, a heavy arm, and a light arm; wherein the heavy arm weighs more than the light arm; wherein the barbell engagement portion is configured to engage with a barbell; wherein each of the at least two weight bars is attached to each of the at least two arm portions of the plate; and wherein the at least two weight bars are adapted to engage and hold one or more weights. The barbell engagement portion may be located approximately near a first end of the light arm and approximately near a first end of the heavy arm. The first weight bar may be located approximately near a second end of the light arm and wherein the second weight bar may be located approximately near a second end of the heavy arm. The light arm may be aligned between approximately 91 to 179 degrees from the heavy arm. The light arm may be aligned between approximately 130 to 140 degrees from the heavy arm. The light arm may be aligned between approximately 135 degrees from the heavy arm. The at least two weight bars may be substantially perpendicular to the at least two arm portions of the plate. The light arm and the heavy may be approximately the same length or be different lengths.
In one embodiment, the barbell and multiple fixed resistance components may allow a greater diversity in influencing the resistance curve compared to other systems because, although the same amount of resistance may be added to the barbell in each system, the resistance may be configured in the system of the present disclosure in a manner that shifts the center of mass because the gear-like design allows subsequent resistance arms/resistance to be placed in multiple positions relative to each other.
Compared to previous resistance systems, one embodiment of the system of the present disclosure may allow for a more predictable manner of loading and unloading resistance to the barbell. Because of the structure of the sleeve interface with the applied resistance arms, the barbell may have the capacity to accept accessory arms to be independently placed upon the sleeves to further influence the positioning of the center of mass and therefore the perceived resistance curve.
The system may function differently as compared to a traditional barbell loaded with standard weight plates for two main reasons: an offset of the center of mass from the location of the applied force and the mass imbalance between the two arms of the plate (one arm being heavier than the other). Because the center of mass may be offset from the location of applied force, the system undergoes some rotational motion when it is subjected to an arc path of movement, like that experienced during a multitude of exercises. This rotation produces a torque vector through the axis of rotation, resulting in the user having to compensate for this in addition to performing the given exercise. Also, because of the mass imbalance between the two arms, the moment of inertia for the system is skewed towards the heavier arm. This results in a perceived lag effect that the user experiences when performing an arc-path based exercise as the user needs to overcome the rotational inertia caused by the heavier arm.
Other features and advantages that are inherent in the barbell collar claimed and disclosed will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and its accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The drawings are of illustrative embodiments. They do not illustrate all embodiments. Other embodiments may be used in addition or instead. Details which may be apparent or unnecessary may be omitted to save space or for more effective illustration. Some embodiments may be practiced with additional components or steps and/or without all of the components or steps which are illustrated. When the same numeral appears in different drawings, it refers to the same or like components or steps.
FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top perspective view of one embodiment of a barbell collar.
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a side view of one embodiment of the barbell collar.
FIG. 3 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user.
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured close to a user.
FIG. 5 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar.
FIG. 6 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar.
FIG. 7 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar.
FIG. 8 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar.
FIG. 9 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user and showing weights on the weight bars.
FIG. 10 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user and showing weights on the weight bars.
FIG. 11 is an illustration of a top perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell collar.
FIG. 12 is an illustration of a top perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell collar.
FIG. 13 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and similar weight components.
FIG. 14 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and different weight components.
FIG. 15 is an illustration of a top plan view of another embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and different weight components.
FIG. 16 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having a single arm.
FIG. 17a is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and no added weight components.
FIG. 17b is an illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a removeable weight.
FIG. 18 is an illustration of an embodiment of a barbell showing one embodiment of a fixing shape.
FIG. 19 is an illustration of a side view of an embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components.
FIG. 20 is an illustration of a perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components.
FIG. 21 is an illustration of a perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components.
FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b are illustrations of a perspective view of a barbell showing one of the fixed resistance components being removed.
FIG. 23A is an illustration of a side view of a traditional barbell.
FIG. 23B and FIG. 23C are illustrations of side view of a user using a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell.
FIG. 24 is an illustration of a perspective view of a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell and the resulting torque vector caused by such rotation.
FIG. 25 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and one embodiment of a spinning mechanism.
FIG. 26 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and another embodiment of a spinning mechanism.
FIG. 27 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and another embodiment of a spinning mechanism.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various aspects of one or more embodiments. However, these embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and/or components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of embodiments.
While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. As will be realized, these embodiments are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of protection. Accordingly, the screen shots, figures, and the detailed descriptions thereof, are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. Also, the reference or non-reference to a particular embodiment shall not be interpreted to limit the scope of protection.
In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments. For purposes of the specification, unless otherwise specified, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, in one embodiment, an object that is “substantially” located within a housing would mean that the object is either completely within a housing or nearly completely within a housing. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally speaking, the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were obtained. The use of “substantially” is also equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result.
As used herein, the terms “approximately” and “about” generally refer to a deviance of within 15% of the indicated number or range of numbers. In one embodiment, the term “approximately” and “about”, refer to a deviance of between 0.0001-40% from the indicated number or range of numbers.
In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments. For example, the term “barbell” generally refers to any long and strong metal bar to which disks of varying weights may be attached at each end, and may be used for weightlifting. Examples of barbells may include, without limitation, standard barbells, curl bars, EZ curl bars, fixed barbells, thick-handled barbells, triceps bars, trap bars, Olympic style barbells with a 2-inch axle bearing, and/or standard barbells with a 1-inch axle bearing.
The present specification discloses a new and improved barbell collar, which may be one or more devices configured to be attached to a barbell. Specifically, the barbell collar may be generally configured to attach to the end portions of an existing barbell and may be used in pairs with respect to a single barbell. In one embodiment, each barbell collar may comprise at least two arm portions, wherein each arm portion may comprise a weight bar. Each weight bar may be tubular and may be configured to hold and secure one or more disc weights. In a preferred embodiment, one arm portion may be greater in mass than the other arm portion and may be angled in approximately 135° degrees from each other. The barbell collar may also be configured to rotate 360° degree around the barbell and releasable lock in various positions around the barbell.
The barbell collar may be used in several ways. The barbell collar may be utilized with only one of the arm portions loaded with disc weights. The barbell collar may be also used with the both of the arm portions loaded with disc weights. In various exercises, the amount of disc weights added to the arm portions may change. Adding and subtracting weights to the arm portions may affect the position of the barbell collar(s) as the exercise is being performed. Additionally, the user may influence the position of the arm portions in a manner, in which the user moves the actual barbell. For example, gravity may pull one arm portion down, potentially, keeping that arm portion at an approximately 90° degrees with respect to the ground's surface. However, the user may also influence the movement of the barbell by causing the barbell collar to move in an arc through various angles of free movement. The amount of weight or resistance applied to one arm portion may also influence the position of the other arm portion. Finally, the barbell collar may be used in a manner that promotes a more controlled movement of the barbell in that the user may attempt to minimize the movement of the arms through a controlled and deliberate manner of the actual barbell movement.
FIG. 1 is an illustration of a top perspective view of one embodiment of a barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 1, the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, a first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108. The plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150, light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. The plate 101 is generally constructed of any rigid material, such as metal (e.g., steel, iron, aluminum), but may be constructed of any type of material, including other metals, plastics, composites, and other man-made materials. Because the barbell collar 100 is generally used in weight-lifting, it may preferably be made of a heavy and strong metal, such as steel and/or iron. The first weight bar 106 and second weight bar 108 may be solid, or substantially tubular (hollow) (as shown), and are generally configured to receive and hold various weights, such as barbell disc weights, which are not shown, but are well known in the art. As shown, the first weight bar 106 and second weight bar 108 may be located approximately near the ends of light arm 103 and the heavy arm 104, respectively, and may be substantially perpendicular to the light arm 103 and heavy arm 104.
The barbell engagement portion 150 may be hole, as shown and may be configured to engage with and secure onto a barbell, typically an end portion of a barbell. The barbell engagement portion 150 may also include an axle-bearing (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4), which may be configured to releasably lock the barbell collar 100 into a particular lateral position with respect to the barbell. In one embodiment the collar 100 may lock onto the barbell such that the collar 100 does not rotate with respect to the barbell. In another embodiment, the barbell is configured to freely rotate with respect to the collar 100. The axel-bearing may lock onto the barbell and be freely rotatable with the collar 100 or the axel-bearing may lock onto the collar 100 and be freely rotatable with the barbell. Although the barbell engagement portion 150 may be a hole, as shown, the engagement portion 150 may be a notch, clamp, hook, grip, or the like for engaging with and being lifted by, a barbell.
The light arm 102 and heavy arm 104 may be have the same length (or substantially the same length), as preferred, or may be of different lengths. Preferably, the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104. FIG. 1 shows that one way to make the light arm 102 lighter than heavy arm 104, but still have both arms 102, 104 have the same length is to include a cutout 103 in the light arm 102. Another way to make the light arm 102 lighter than the heavy arm 104 is to have notches or holes cut/drilled into the light arm 102. Another way to make the light arm 102 lighter than the heavy arm 104 is to construct the lighter arm from lighter or less dense material, such as aluminum rather than iron, or to make the light arm physically thinner.
In one embodiment, the heavy arm 104 is greater in weight/mass than the light arm 102 by a 5:3 ratio.
Regarding the position and alignment between the light arm 102 and the heavy arm 104, the light arm portion 102 may be angled or aligned away from the heavy arm 104 in various degrees. For example, in an embodiment, the light arm 102 may be angled from the heavy arm 104 between 91° and 179° degrees, and may be approximately between 130° and 140° degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the light arm 102 may be angled or aligned away from the heavy arm 104 at approximately 135° degrees (shown in FIG. 2).
During use, the barbell collar 100 may allow the user to experience various exercise positions and resistance. This is generally because the first weight bar 106 and second weight bar 108 are generally configured to freely rotate relative to the end portion on the barbell. For example, during use of the barbell collar 100, the user may face towards the concave portion of the barbell collar 100 (e.g., the 135 degree portion of the barbell collar 100 in-between the light arm 102 and heavy arm 104) (as shown in FIG. 3). Alternatively, during use of the barbell collar 100, the user may face the convex portion of the barbell collar 100 (e.g., the 225 degrees portion in-between the first arm portion 107 and second arm portion 108 of the barbell collar 100) (as shown in FIG. 4). The user may also position the barbell collars in a manner such that the user may face the concave portion of one barbell collar while, at the same time, face the convex portion of another barbell collar. As a result, the user may experience resistance through the sagittal plane, the coronal plane, the transverse plane, and the horizontal plane, or any combinations thereof.
When disc weights are not loaded onto the first weight bar 106 and second weight bar 108 of the barbell collar 100, the arms 102, 104 of the plate 101 may be positioned at various degrees relative to the barbell. For example, the light arm 102 may be positioned at an angle of approximately 90° degrees relative to the barbell's horizontal plane when the barbell and barbell collar 100 are not in contact with any surface. Additionally, the heavy arm 104 may be positioned at approximately 45° degrees relative to the barbell's horizontal plane when the barbell and barbell collar 100 are not in contact with any surface. However, various positions may be configured to the light arm 102, heavy arm 104, or combination thereof, thereby influencing the position of the arm relative to the horizontal plane of the barbell. The manner in which the barbell may move may also further influence the position of the arms relative to the horizontal plane of the barbell. The collar 100, as shown in FIG. 1, may allow the arms 102, 104 of the collar 100 to be positioned in a non-parallel manner with the horizontal plane in order to influence the perceived resistance curve of the user.
In some embodiments, the at least two weight bars 106, 108 may be unitary portions of the plate 101 as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a side view of one embodiment of the barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 2, one embodiment of the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108, wherein the plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150, light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. FIG. 2 shows that the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104 (because of cut out portion 103) and may be angled at approximately 135° degrees from the heavy arm 104. In a preferred embodiment, the light arm 102 may weigh approximately 3 units as compared to a weight of approximately 5 units for the heavy arm 104. Thus, the weight of the light arm 102 to the heavy arm 104 may be a ratio of approximately 3:5.
FIG. 3 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user. As shown in FIG. 3, one embodiment of the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108, wherein the plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2), light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. FIG. 3 shows that the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104 (because of cut out portion 103) and may be angled at approximately 135° degrees from the heavy arm 104. FIG. 3 shows that the collar 100 is engaged with barbell 200, which is held at least laterally in place by an axle-bearing 202. FIG. 3 shows that the collar 100 may freely rotate with respect to barbell 200, and, in this configuration, the heavy arm 106, which is away from the user 300, is hanging lower than the light arm 108 and angled down, due to being heavier. In one embodiment the bearing assembly may comprise a clamping ring to secure it to the weight bar.
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured close to a user. As shown in FIG. 4, one embodiment of the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108, wherein the plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2), light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. FIG. 4 shows that the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104 (because of cut out portion 103) and may be angled at approximately 135° degrees from the heavy arm 104. FIG. 4 shows that the collar 100 is engaged with barbell 200, which is held at least laterally in place by an axle-bearing 202. FIG. 4 shows that the collar 100 may freely rotate with respect to barbell 200, and, in this configuration, the heavy arm 106, which is close to the user 300, is hanging lower than the light arm 108 and angled down, due to being heavier.
Depending on whether the user 300 does a curl as shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4, the user 300 will experience a different perceived resistance curve as compared to each other. The peak of the resistance curve occurs at a different angle of the movement when comparing the curl in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4. Further, the actual shape of the resistance curve (force vs angle) would be different as well.
FIG. 5 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 5, one embodiment of the barbell collar 500 may comprise: a plate 501, first weight bar 506, and second weight bar 508, wherein the plate 501 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 550, light arm 502, and heavy arm 504. FIG. 3 shows that the light arm 502 may be lighter than the heavy arm 504 because of a plurality of holes 503 cut or drilled into light arm 502.
FIG. 6 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 6, one embodiment of the barbell collar 600 may comprise: a plate 601, first weight bar 606, and second weight bar 608, wherein the plate 601 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 650, light arm 602, and heavy arm 604. FIG. 3 shows that the light arm 602 may be lighter than the heavy arm 604 because of one or more notches or grooves 603 that are on one or both sides of light arm 602.
FIG. 7 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 7, one embodiment of the barbell collar 700 may comprise: a plate 701, first weight bar 706, and second weight bar 708, wherein the plate 701 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 750, light arm 702, and heavy arm 704. FIG. 3 shows that the light arm 702 may be lighter than the heavy arm 704 because light arm 702 is thinner and/or has less mass or less material than heavy arm 704.
FIG. 8 is an illustration of a side view of another embodiment of the barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 7, one embodiment of the barbell collar 800 may comprise: a plate 801, first weight bar 806, and second weight bar 808, wherein the plate 801 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 850, light arm 802, and heavy arm 804. FIG. 3 shows that the light arm 802 may be lighter than the heavy arm 804 because light arm 802 is made from a material that is lighter than the material of which heavy arm 804 is constructed, or because light arm 802 is made from a less dense version of the same material of which heavy arm 804 is constructed, and is thus lighter than heavy arm 804.
FIG. 9 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user and showing weights on the weight bars. As shown in FIG. 9, one embodiment of the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108, wherein the plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2), light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. FIG. 9 shows that the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104 (because of cut out portion 103) and may be angled at approximately 135° degrees from the heavy arm 104. FIG. 9 shows that the collar 100 is engaged with barbell 200, which is held at least laterally in place by an axle-bearing 202. FIG. 9 shows that the first weight bar 106 may engage one or more weights, in this case a five (5) pound disc weight 388, and second weight bar 108 may engage one or more weights, in this case a ten (10) pound disc weight 389. As compared to the configuration in FIGS. 3 and 10, the heavy arm 108 is now hanging even lower (because the second weight bar 108 has more weight on it than the first weight bar 106), which provides the user with a different lifting experience and force curve.
FIG. 10 is an illustration of a side view of the barbell collar on a barbell with the heavy arm configured away from a user and showing weights on the weight bars. As shown in FIG. 9, one embodiment of the barbell collar 100 may comprise: a plate 101, first weight bar 106, and second weight bar 108, wherein the plate 101 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 150 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2), light arm 102, and heavy arm 104. FIG. 9 shows that the light arm 102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 104 (because of cut out portion 103) and may be angled at approximately 135° degrees from the heavy arm 104. FIG. 9 shows that the collar 100 is engaged with barbell 200, which is held at least laterally in place by an axle-bearing 202. FIG. 9 shows that the first weight bar 106 may engage one or more weights, in this case a five (5) pound disc weight 388, and second weight bar 108 may engage one or more weights, in this case a five (5) pound disc weight 390. As compared to the configurations in FIGS. 3 and 9, this configuration provides a similar, but heavier lift than FIG. 3. Having at least two weight bars 106 and 108 allows the user to vary where to place the weights to vary the type of lift experience and force curve.
FIG. 11 is an illustration of a top perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 11, the barbell collar 1100 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 1101, a first weight bar 1106, and second weight bar 1108, light arm 1102, and heavy arm 1104. In this embodiment the light arm 1102 and heavy arm 1104 may be of different lengths, which causes them to be of different weights. This embodiment is similar to the embodiments shown in Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/760,333, but in this embodiment, the light arm 102 and heavy arm 104 are of different weights. The embodiments shown in Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/760,333 are of different lengths, but may be the same weight or different weights.
The barbell engagement portion 1101 may comprise a hole 1150, which is configured to engage with a barbell.
The barbell collar 1100 may be generally constructed of any rigid material, such as metal (e.g., steel, iron, aluminum), but may be constructed of any type of material, including other metals, plastics, composites, and other man-made materials. FIG. 11 shows that the barbell collar 1100 may be a single unit with different portions. In other embodiments the collar 1100 may be made from several units that are permanently connected together via welding, adhesives, connectors, soldering, ultrasonic welding, and the like. Because the barbell collar 1100 is generally used in weight-lifting, it may preferably be made of a heavy and strong metal, such as steel and/or iron. The first weight bar 1106 and second weight bar 1108 may be solid, or substantially tubular (hollow), and are generally configured to receive and hold various weights, such as barbell disc weights, which are not shown, but are well known in the art. As shown, the first weight bar 1106 and second weight bar 1108 may be located approximately near the ends of light arm 1103 and the heavy arm 1104, respectively, and may be substantially perpendicular to each other.
The barbell engagement portion 1101 may be configured to engage with and secure onto a barbell, typically an end portion of a barbell, with a second collar attached to the other end of the barbell. The barbell engagement portion 1101 may also include or engage with an axle-bearing (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4), which may be configured to releasably lock the barbell collar 1100 into a particular lateral position with respect to the barbell. In one embodiment the collar 1100 may lock onto the barbell such that the collar 1100 does not rotate with respect to the barbell. In another embodiment, the barbell is configured to freely rotate with respect to the collar 1100.
The light arm 1102 and heavy arm 1104 may be have the same length (or substantially the same length), as preferred, or may be of different lengths. Preferably, the light arm 1102 may be lighter than the heavy arm 1104. FIG. 11 shows that one way to make the light arm 1102 lighter than heavy arm 1104, is to have the arms 1102, 1104 have different lengths, which means heavy arm 1104 may have more material mass and is thus, heavier. In one embodiment, the heavy arm 104 is greater in weight/mass than the light arm 102 by a 5:3 ratio, due to a greater length in a 5:3 ratio.
Regarding the position and alignment between the light arm 1102 and the heavy arm 1104, the light arm portion 102 may be angled 1199 or aligned away from the heavy arm 1104 in various degrees. For example, in an embodiment, the light arm 1102 may be angled from the heavy arm 1104 between 91° and 179° degrees, and may be approximately between 130° and 140° degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the light arm 1102 may be angled or aligned away from the heavy arm 1104 at approximately 135° degrees (shown in FIG. 2).
During use, the barbell collar 1100 may allow the user to experience various exercise positions and resistance. This is generally because the first weight bar 1106 and second weight bar 1108 are generally configured to freely rotate relative to the end portion on the barbell. For example, during use of the barbell collar 1100, the user may face towards the concave portion of the barbell collar 1100 (e.g., the 135 degree portion of the barbell collar 1100 in-between the light arm 1102 and heavy arm 1104) (as shown in FIG. 3). Alternatively, during use of the barbell collar 1100, the user may face the convex portion of the barbell collar 1100 (e.g., the 225 degrees portion in-between the first arm portion 1107 and second arm portion 1108 of the barbell collar 1100) (as shown in FIG. 4). The user may also position the barbell collars in a manner such that the user may face the concave portion of one barbell collar while, at the same time, face the convex portion of another barbell collar. As a result, the user may experience resistance through the sagittal plane, the coronal plane, the transverse plane, and the horizontal plane, or any combinations thereof.
When disc weights are not loaded onto the first weight bar 1106 and second weight bar 1108 of the barbell collar 1100, the arms 1102, 1104 of the collar 1100 may be positioned at various degrees relative to the barbell. For example, the light arm 1102 may be positioned at an angle of approximately 90° degrees relative to the barbell's horizontal plane when the barbell and barbell collar 1100 are not in contact with any surface. Additionally, the heavy arm 1104 may be positioned at approximately 45° degrees relative to the barbell's horizontal plane when the barbell and barbell collar 1100 are not in contact with any surface. However, various positions may be configured to the light arm 1102, heavy arm 1104, or combination thereof, thereby influencing the position of the arm relative to the horizontal plane of the barbell. The manner in which the barbell may move may also further influence the position of the arms relative to the horizontal plane of the barbell. The collar 1100, as shown in FIG. 11, may allow the arms 1102, 1104 of the collar 1100 to be positioned in a non-parallel manner with the horizontal plane in order to influence the perceived resistance curve of the user.
FIG. 12 is an illustration of a top perspective view of another embodiment of a barbell collar. As shown in FIG. 12, the barbell collar 1200 may comprise: a barbell engagement portion 1201, a first weight bar 1206, and second weight bar 1208, light arm 1202, and heavy arm 1204. In this embodiment the light arm 1202 and heavy arm 1204 may be of different diameters, which causes them to be of different weights. Heavy arm 1204, as shown, may be thicker and thus greater in diameter than the light arm 1202, which causes the heavy arm 1204 to be greater in mass or weight. Although the arms 1202, 1204 are shown having the same length, they do not have to be of the same or substantially the same length. In some embodiments the arms 1202, 1204 are different lengths, as shown in FIG. 12. The barbell engagement portion 1201 may comprise a hole 1250, which is configured to engage with a barbell.
FIG. 13 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and similar weight components. As shown in FIG. 13, the fixed resistance component 1300 may comprise a plate 1305, hole 1310, first arm 1315, second arm 1320, first weight component 1325, and second weight component 1330. The plate 1305 may comprise a structural component to which the other components of the fixed resistance component may be affixed or related to. In one embodiment, the weight components 1325, 1330 may slidably (and removeably) engage the arms 1315, 1320. In alternative embodiments, the weight components 1325, 1330 may be permanently attached to the arms 1315, 1316. In another alternative embodiment, the weight components 1325, 1330 may removeably engage the arms 1315, 1320, in some other manner.
The first arm 1315 may be longer than the second arm 1320. As shown, the first arm 1315 and second arm 1320 may be at an angle relative to one another. This angle between the first and second arms 1315, 1320 may be anywhere between 0 and 180 degrees, and more preferably, in the range between 130 and 140 degrees. In one embodiment, the first and second arms 1315, 1320 are at an angle of 135 degrees relative to one another. The first weight component 1325 and second weight component 1330 may be substantially similar in weight.
As shown, the hole 1310 may have one or more notches or be ring gear shaped. In alternative embodiments, the hole 1310 may be substantially any shape configured to matingly receive a structure having a fixing shape, such that when the hole 1310 receives the structure having a fixing shape, the hole 1310 and structure having a fixing shape are rotationally locked relative to one another and are not freely rotatable. In one embodiment, the hole 1310 and fixing shape may be substantially gear-shaped, which may allow the hole 1310 to engage the fixing shape in a variety of configurations, such that multiple fixed resistance components 1300 may each engage the structure having a fixing shape at different rotational configurations.
In alternative embodiments, the hole 1310 may be configured to engage barbell collars (or ends), thereby fixing the fixed resistance component relative to the barbell collars.
In alternative embodiments, the hole 1310 may be configured to engage fixed resistance components having a structure that has a fixing shape.
The fixed resistance component 1300 may be made from a durable material, such as steel, iron, aluminum, or some other metal alloy.
FIG. 14 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and different weight components. As shown in FIG. 14, the fixed resistance component 1400 may comprise a plate 1405, hole 1410, first arm 1415, second arm 1420, first weight component 1425, and second weight component 1430. The fixed resistance component 1400 shown in FIG. 14 may be substantially similar to the fixed resistance component 1300 shown in FIG. 13, except that the first and second weight components 1425, 1430 may be different, such that the first weight component 1425 is lighter than the second weight component 1430 and located on the first arm 1415.
FIG. 15 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and different weight components. As shown in FIG. 15, the fixed resistance component 1500 may comprise a plate 1505, hole 1510, first arm 1515, second arm 1520, first weight component 1525, and second weight component 1530. The fixed resistance component 1500 shown in FIG. 15 may be substantially similar to the fixed resistance component 1300 shown in FIG. 13, except that the first and second weight components 1425, 1430 may be different, such that the first weight component 1425 is heavier than the second weight component 1430 and located on the first arm 1415.
FIG. 16 is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having a single arm. As shown in FIG. 16, the fixed resistance component 1600 may comprise a plate 1605, hole 1610, arm 1615, and weight component 1625, and second weight component 1630. The fixed resistance component 1600 shown in FIG. 16 may be substantially similar to the fixed resistance component 1300 shown in FIG. 13, except that the fixed resistance component 1600 comprises only one arm 1615 and one weight component 1625.
FIG. 17a is an illustration of a top plan view of an embodiment of a fixed resistance component having different arms lengths and no weight components. As shown in FIG. 17, the fixed resistance component 1700 may comprise a plate 1705, hole 1710, first arm 1715, and second arm 120. The fixed resistance component 1700 shown in FIG. 17 may be substantially similar to the fixed resistance component 1300 shown in FIG. 13, except that the fixed resistance component 1700 does not have weight components attached. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 17, the fixed resistance component 1700 comprises a first weight connection point 1725 and a second weight connection point 1730. In one embodiment, weight components may slidable engage the weight connection points 1725, 1730. In alternative embodiments, weight components may engage the weight connection points 1725, 1730 by substantially any releasably engaging mechanism.
FIG. 17b is an illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a removeable weight. FIG. 17b shows that first weight connection point 1725 is configured to engage with weight component 1726 at weight slot 1727. Preferably, the weight component 1726 may releasably lock into place with weight connection point 1725.
FIG. 18 is an illustration of an embodiment of a barbell showing a fixing shape portion. As shown in FIG. 18, the barbell 1800 may comprise a bar 1805, and an end 1810, which may comprise a collar 1811 and a fixing shape portion 1815. The fixing shape portion 1815 may extend longitudinally and be configured to matingly engage one or more of the fixed resistance components shown in FIGS. 13-17. Because the fixing shape portion 1815 may be ring gear shaped, as shown, multiple fixed resistance components, which may be gear shaped, may engage the barbell 1800 at angles independent of one another. The collar 1811 may prevent the fixed resistance components from further sliding proximally to the center of the bar 1805.
In some embodiments, the fixing shape portion 1815 may be static or fixed with respect to bar 1805, which is preferably a barbell. In other embodiments, the fixing shape portion 1815 may freely rotate with respect to bar 1805. In some embodiments, the fixing shape portion 1815 may rotate on ball bearings round shaft 1816. When the fixing shape portion 1815 is rotatable with respect to bar 1805, the fixing shape portion 1815 will rotate based on the configurations of the fixed resistance components finding an equilibrium.
FIG. 19 is an illustration of a side view of an embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components. As shown in FIG. 19, a barbell with fixed resistance components 1900 may have a structure having a fixing shape, shown as fixing shape portion 1920, which may matingly engage with the ring gear shaped holes of fixed resistance components 1905, 1910, 1911, including ring gear shaped hole 1925 of fixed resistance component 1915. In this manner, the one or more fixed resistance components 1905, 1910, 1915 may each engage the barbell at positions different from one another. This allows the user to add weight to the barbell 2030 in hundreds of different configurations. When you combine the hundreds of different weight configurations with (1) the fixed resistance components themselves may have different configurations, (2) even, uneven, or no weights, (3) one, two, three, or more arms, and (4) the varying angles between the arms, the weight system of the present disclosure has essentially an infinite amount of configurations. This allows the user to determine an optimal resistance curve for exercising with a maximum desired benefit.
Other configurations include:
- a single fixed resistant component on one side of the barbell;
- a single fixed resistant component with one arm and one weight;
- a single fixed resistant component with two arms, but only one has a weight;
- a single fixed resistant component with two arms, and both have a weight;
- a single fixed resistant component with two arms, and both have a weight, but the weights are of unequal weight;
- a single fixed resistant component with two arms, wherein the two arms are of different lengths;
- a single fixed resistant component with three or more arms;
- two fixed resistant components stacked on one side of the barbell at the same radial configuration;
- two fixed resistant components stacked on one side of the barbell at different radial configurations;
- three or more fixed resistant components stacked on one side of the barbell at the same or different radial configurations;
- loading both sides of the barbell each with the same number of fixed resistant components or a different number of fixed resistant components;
- loading both sides of the barbell with the same number of fixed resistant components in mirror images of each other; and
- loading both sides of the barbell with the same number of fixed resistant components, but in different configurations from the opposite side.
Each of the above configurations and the almost infinite specific configurations that they can be expressed in may produce an effect on the perceived resistance curve.
FIG. 20 is an illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components shown in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 19, the barbell with fixed resistance components 1900 shown in FIG. 19 may comprise a barbell 2030. Also, the structure having a fixing shape, fixing shape portion 1920, may have a length that allows the ring gear shaped holes 1925 of one or more fixed resistance components to engage the structure having a fixing shape, shown here as fixing shape portion 1920. FIG. 20 shows how collar 1911 allows the fixed resistance components 1905, 1910, 1915 to be stacked onto fixing shape portion 1920. A locking component may be used to lock the fixed resistance components 1905, 1910, 1915 in place so that they do not inadvertently slide off the end of fixing shape portion 1920. The barbell 2030 may have main shaft 2031, which is preferably static and non-rotatable relative to said fixing shape portions. In one embodiment, the fixing shape portion 1920 may be the barbell collar shape.
FIG. 21 is an illustration of a perspective view of an embodiment of a barbell and multiple fixed resistance components. As shown in FIG. 21, the barbell 2030 may have two ends 2110, 2115, which may have a structure having a fixing shape matingly engaged to one or more fixed resistance components. As shown in FIG. 21, each end 2110, 2115 may have three fixed resistance components that are configured to be mirror images of the other end. In other embodiments, the user may add the fixed resistance components in an uneven manner to the two ends 2110, 2115. Preferably, each of the two ends 2110, 2115 have a fixing shape portion.
FIG. 21 also shows one embodiment of a system that has a barbell and at least two weights that are located at opposite ends of the barbell. The at least two weights are configured to rotate freely around the barbell. Preferably, when the barbell is subjected to an arc path of movement during an exercise, said at least two weights undergo rotational motion, which produces a rotational inertial torque vector through an axis of rotation, which results in a user having to compensate for this during the exercise. The weights may undergo rotational motion via many different ways, including, but not limited to: an external force being applied by a pulley, string, or small motor; having weight plates with mass inserts to alter the mass distribution; and/or other asymmetric weight plate designs.
FIG. 22a and FIG. 22b are illustrations of a perspective view of a barbell showing one of the fixed resistance components being removed. FIG. 22a shows the barbell 2030 with fixed resistance components 1905, 1910 stacked in the same position side by side on fixing shape portion 1920, and fixed resistance component 1915 stacked in a different configuration on fixing shape portion 1920. FIG. 22b shows that when fixed resistance component 1915 is removed 2210, the barbell 2020 rebalances 2215, 2225. The rotational forces of the rebalancing 2215, 2225 is not significant, which makes the system safer to load and unload the fixed resistance components.
FIG. 23A is an illustration of a side view of a traditional barbell. FIG. 23B and FIG. 23C are illustrations of side view of a user using a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell. FIG. 23A depicts a standard barbell and weight 2300, with the broken line indicating the path of travel of the barbell. As shown in FIG. 23B, a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell and a fixed resistance component having a short arm with a heavy weight positioned toward a user 2307 and a longer arm with a light weight positioned away from the user 2307 results in a lowered position 2305 to a raised position 2310 may result in a rotation or oscillation of the fixed resistance component, such that the user 2307 is required to compensate for the motion when moving the barbell from a lowered position 2305 to a raised position 2310.
As shown in FIG. 23C, a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell and a fixed resistance component having a short arm with a heavy weight positioned away from a user 2317 and a longer arm with a light weight positioned toward the user 2317 results in a lowered position 2315 to a raised position 2320 may result in a rotation or oscillation of the fixed resistance component, such that the user 2317 is required to compensate for the motion when moving the barbell from a lowered position 2315 to a raised position 2320.
FIG. 24 is an illustration of a perspective view of a barbell having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell. As shown in FIG. 24, as a barbell 2400 having a fixing shape that is rotatable relative to the barbell is raised from a lowered position to a raised position, the fixed resistance component 2405 may effectively rotate, thereby exerting a torque vector for which the user would need to compensate.
FIG. 25 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and one embodiment of a spinning mechanism. Preferably, the barbell has weights on either end of it to balance the load. FIG. 25 shows that the weight 2502 may rotate 2506, 2508 around barbell end 2504. The resistance bands 2510, 2512 may be attached (removeably or permanently) to the weight 2502, such that when barbell is subjected to an arc path of movement 2550 during an exercise, the weight 2502 undergo rotational motion caused by the resistance bands 2510, 2512. In some embodiments only one of the bands 2510, 2512 is used. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25, the weight 2502 may or may not having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell end 2504. In some embodiments, the barbell has two ends and one weight, which is positioned in the middle, between the arms of the user. When the user does a curl, or other type of exercise, the pully may get the weight spinning as it is lifted, which causes a rotational torque that must be compensated for. This makes the exercise harder, or at least different, and the exerciser gets more of a benefit.
FIG. 26 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and another embodiment of a spinning mechanism. Preferably, the barbell has weights on either end of it to balance the load. FIG. 26 shows another way that the weight may be rotated. In this embodiment, the weight 2602 has weighted portions 2603, which may be permanent or removable. The weighted portions 2603 are preferably heavier, proportionally, than the material that makes up weight 2602. The weighted portions 2603, when present or removed, preferably cause the weight 2602 to be offset, such that when a user lifts the barbell in an arc path 2650 during an exercise, the weight 2602 undergoes rotational motion 2610, 2612 (around barbell end 2604), which produces a rotational inertial torque vector through an axis of rotation, which results in a user having to compensate for this during the exercise. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 25, the weight 2502 may or may not having a fixing shape portion rotatable relative to the barbell end 2504.
FIG. 27 is an illustration of side view of a barbell having a weight that may rotate around the barbell and another embodiment of a spinning mechanism. Preferably, the barbell has weights on either end of it to balance the load. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 27, rather than having two clearly discernable arms on the weight 2700, which may or may not be a fixed resistance component, may comprise a plate, 2702, hole 2710, first arm 2712, and second arm 2713, which are all embodied in a unitary offset shape. Although weight 2700 is triangular, any shape may be used. Rather than having removeable weight portions, the weight portions are integrated into first arm 2712 and second arm 2713. As an offset weight, the weight 2700 is configured to rotate 2740, 2741 around the barbell. Preferably, when the barbell is subjected to an arc path of movement 2799 during an exercise, the weight 2700 undergoes rotational motion, which produces a rotational inertial torque vector through an axis of rotation, which results in a user having to compensate for this during the exercise.
Because in one embodiment the fixed resistance components, once engaged with the barbell, are static and not freely rotatable around the barbell, the center of gravity may be moved from a center point of the barbell, to a position that in front or behind the barbell. Since the center of mass must be at the pivot point, which is necessarily on the barbell when gripped by the user, the system allows the user to vary the resistance curve encountered by the user by varying where the center of gravity is. In an alternative embodiment, the fixed resistance components may be fixed only relative to the fixing shape portion, and the fixing shape portion may be freely rotable about the axis of the barbell.
While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. This disclosure should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the disclosure as claimed.
The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the above detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments. As will be realized, the embodiments are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope. Accordingly, the detailed description is to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. Also, although not explicitly recited, one or more embodiments may be practiced in combination or conjunction with one another. Furthermore, the reference or non-reference to a particular embodiment shall not be interpreted to limit the scope. It is intended that the scope not be limited by this detailed description, but by the claims and the equivalents to the claims that are appended hereto.
Except as stated immediately above, nothing which has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.
Patent Application
20200206559
