Patent Application
20250108247
Free weights have been a cornerstone of resistance training for centuries, offering versatile strength training options for enthusiasts and athletes alike. Traditional dumbbell exercises rely on the user's direct grip on the dumbbell handle. While this conventional grip method has proven effective, it presents challenges for some users. Grip fatigue, limited exercise variation due to grip constraints, and difficulties faced by individuals with compromised grip strength are among the limitations of the traditional grip method.
Additionally, as fitness training methodologies evolve and diversify, there exists a growing need for equipment that allows users to perform a broader range of exercises safely and efficiently. Traditionally, a dumbbell weightlifter is spotted by another individual (the spotter), the spotter positioning their hands underneath the elbows of the weightlifter or, alternatively, by grabbing the weightlifter's wrists. When the grip or strength of the weightlifter buckles, said spotter will lift elbows or wrists of the weightlifter, safeguarding the weightlifter from injury or otherwise allowing the weightlifter to complete the repetition.
This traditional method of spotting a weightlifter is disadvantageous as the spotter does not directly lift the dumbbell. Thus, the weightlifter may either drop the dumbbell or otherwise alter their grip in such a way that could inflict injury on either party. Accordingly, there is a need for a weightlifting spotting handle that attaches to a free weight, allowing a spotter to lift the free weight directly.
The present invention addresses the aforementioned challenges faced in the art by introducing a novel weightlifting spotting handle. The utility of the invention lies in its unique configuration comprising a primary support handle and two adjustable support straps.
In essence, the primary support handle serves as the main gripping point for a spotter. The primary support handle provides a comfortable and secure grip for the spotter to lift the free weight in the evening the weightlifter's strength falters. It is fabricated from durable and lightweight materials that can withstand the stresses encountered during rigorous workouts.
Emerging from the handle are two adjustable connector straps that attach the primary support handle to a free weight. The adjustable connector straps are crafted to be robust yet flexible, ensuring they can accommodate and securely attach to free weights of various sizes and designs. The adjustability feature allows the adjustable connector straps to snugly fit around a free weight handle, ensuring a stable and firm connection, reducing wobbling or misalignment in use. The adjustable connector straps may include, but need not be limited to a buckle mechanism, allowing the connector strap to be adjustably connected to a free weight handle. Alternative methods are envisioned for achieving the adjustable functionality of the connector straps. One skilled in the art might substitute the aforementioned buckle mechanism for a slide mechanism, allowing an end user to secure fasten each adjustable connector strap to the handle of a free weight.
The interaction between the primary handle and the adjustable support straps creates a symbiotic relationship. The handle allows the spotter to maintain a firm grip, while the straps transfer the weight and movement of the dumbbell, evenly distributing the load.
In accordance with one non-limiting aspect of the invention, the primary support handle attaches to the first and second adjustable connector straps indirectly via a ring structure. On either end of the primary support handle, first and second support handle rings connect the primary support handle to another, separate ring structure. The first and second adjustable connector straps are looped through the ring structure, bringing together the first and second adjustable connector straps with the primary support strap. In another embodiment, the first and second adjustable connector straps may be directly attached to the primary support handle via a bonding adhesive or stitching.
In summary, the present invention offers a groundbreaking approach to free weight exercises, bridging the gap between traditional spotting methods and the evolving needs of modern fitness enthusiasts.
The present invention relates to exercise equipment, specifically to a weightlifting spotting handle that adjustably attaches to free weights.
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to the description, it should be understood that the terms or words used in the specification and the appended claims should not be construed as limited to general and dictionary meanings, but interpreted based on the meanings and concepts corresponding to technical aspects of the present disclosure on the basis of the principle that the inventor is allowed to define terms appropriately for the best explanation.
Therefore, the embodiments described herein and illustrations shown in the drawings are just a most preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, but not intended to fully describe the technical aspects of the present disclosure, so it should be understood that a variety of other equivalents and variations could be made thereto at the time of filing the application.
Additionally, in describing the present disclosure, when it is deemed that a detailed description of relevant known elements or functions renders the key subject matter of the present disclosure ambiguous, the detailed description is omitted herein.
The terms including the ordinal number such as “first”, “second” and the like may be used to distinguish one element from another among various elements, but not intended to limit the elements by the terms.
Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, it will be understood that the terms “comprises” or “includes” when used in this specification, specifies the presence of stated elements, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other elements.
In addition, throughout the specification it will be further understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected to” or “attached to” another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or intervening elements that may be present. Moreover, while the weightlifting spotting handle is illustratively attached to a dumbbell, this environment is not limiting of the invention. The weightlifting spotting handle may be adapted to fit a variety of free weights, and need not be limited to a free weight of any particular size or structure.
The primary support handle 103 is adapted for a human hand. In the present embodiment, the primary support handle 103 is illustratively composed of 60% polyethylene terephthalate (PET), 30% natural jute fibers, and 10% spandex for added flexibility and elasticity. The aforementioned blend, however, is nonlimiting. The precise blend of the foregoing materials may be modified by one skilled in the art to accommodate for a variety of weights or use cases. The blend may also be coated with a thin layer (0.2-04 mm) of a polyurethane-based polymer that offers improved traction, UV resistance, and water resistance, together protecting the internal fibers from degradation. Typically, the PET, jute, and spandex fibers are blended in a high-speed mixing unit. The blended fibers are then twisted into strands using a rope-twisting machine. The multiple strands are then braided together to form the final rope-like structure or appearance of the primary support handle. The primary support handle 103 is then coated with the aforementioned polyurethrane-based polymer using a dip-coating method. Finally, the primary support handle 103 undergoes a curing process to ensure the coating is evenly distributed and firmly attached. It should be noted that this is one particular embodiment of the primary support handle 103, and is not limiting of the invention.
For example, the primary support handle 103 may alternatively be composed of more durable materials, including reinforced plastics, metals, or composites, and may also be designed to ergonomically fit a human hand. The primary support handle 103 may be designed with an anti-slip surface, ensuring that it remains securely in the user's hand. The inner side of the primary support handle 103 may also incorporate padding or a soft lining, enhancing comfort for the user, especially during exercises involving heavy weights or rapid movements. The primary support handle 103 may also include contours, grips, or padding for added comfort and slip resistance.
The primary support handle 103 may also be composed of a durable material, such as reinforced plastics, metals, or composites, said durable material wrapped or encased in a soft lining. A high-density, cylindrical closed-cell foam grip is an example of one such soft lining that may fit snugly onto the primary support handle. Alternatively, the entire primary support handle 103 may be composed of a closed-cell foam material. In such an embodiment, the primary support handle 103 may include ridges or contours to prevent the foam grip from moving during use. Closed cell foam materials are typically derived from a polymer base, such as polyurethane, polyethylene, or PVC. Various additives may be incorporated, including UV stabilizers to prevent the wear and tear of the foam grip. Blowing agents commonly known in the art are then introduced to create the foam structure. These agents can be physical blowing agents, such as water, or chemical blowing agents that produce gas as a byproduct of chemical reactions. The mixture is then allowed to react, wherein the blowing agents produce gas, causing the mixture to expand and create the closed-cell foam structure. The foam is then poured into a mold forming the shape of the foam grip, which may include finger grooves or texture patterns designed to prevent the user from slipping. The closed-cell foam may also be cured directly onto the primary support handle 103. The closed-cell foam mold may also be hollow, such that the closed-cell foam grip may be removably attached to a durable material, the durable material and foam grip combined as to form one complete primary support handle 103. In effect, the primary support handle 103 need not be one continuous material, and may be composed of both one or more components so long as the spotter may firmly grip the weightlifting spotting handle.
The two adjustable connector straps 101102 are designed to securely grip the handle of a traditional free weight 104. As will be shown, the adjustable connector straps 101102 may be adjusted to fit free weight handles of different diameters. The distance between the two adjustable connector straps 101102 can also be adjusted, allowing the handle to be securely attached at different positions along the dumbbell's length. Said adjustability is advantageous such that it ensures the spotting handle's compatibility with different dumbbell handles, user wrist sizes, and exercises.
In the present embodiment, the first and second adjustable connector straps 201202 are illustratively manufactured of leather but may be manufactured according to a variety of robust materials. One end of the adjustable connector straps 201202 may comprise a buckle mechanism designed to secure the weightlifting spotting handle to the handle of a free weight. The other end is attached to the primary support handle 203 indirectly via a first ring structure 209 and a second ring structure 210. Once connected, the adjustable connector straps 201202 can bear the weight of a dumbbell, such that in the event a user is unable to lift said dumbbell, a spotter may lift the dumbbell to relieve the user. In this embodiment, the buckle mechanism comprises a buckle frame 204, a tongue 205, and at least two holes 206207, offering the user the ability to adjust the adjustable connector straps 201202 and adapt them to a variety of dumbbell handle sizes.
The buckle frame 204 and tongue 205 may be composed of a variety of durable materials, such as metal or plastic. The tongue fastens through one of the holes to secure the adjustable connector strap 201 to a free weight handle. The buckle frame 204 is illustratively secured to the first adjustable connector strap 201 by threading or looping the first adjustable connector strap 201 through the buckle frame 204, and folding it back onto itself. The loose end of the first adjustable connector strap 208 is then fastened back onto the first adjustable connector strap 201 using a variety of known methods. For example, the loose end may be secured via an adhesive or stitching.
It should be noted that a number of alternatives to the buckle mechanism depicted are envisioned. For example, in an alternative embodiment (not depicted), a slide mechanism may attach the adjustable connector strap to the handle of the free weight. In such an embodiment, the slide mechanism would consist of a main frame featuring a central metal bar through which the adjustable connector strap may be threaded, effectively separating the main frame into two insertion slots. The adjustable connector strap would be threaded through the insertion slots and looped around the central middle bar of the main frame. The user would then grip the loose end of the adjustable connector strap and pull it through the main frame to tighten it. Once set, tension from the weight of the dumbbell or the user's movements causes the mechanism to grip the strap securely, preventing it from slipping.
Referring back to
In this embodiment, the primary support handle 203 is attached to the first and second adjustable connector straps 201202 indirectly via a first and second ring structure 209210. Illustratively, the primary support handle 203 comprises a first support handle ring 211 and second support handle ring 212 attached at either end of the primary support handle 203 according to a variety of known methods, such as through the use of an adhesive. The first support handle ring 211 and second support handle ring 212 may additionally comprise a clip mechanism (not depicted), such that the primary support handle may be quickly removed from the ring structures 209210. The first support handle ring 211 and second support handle ring 212 attach to the ring structures 209210, indirectly connecting the primary support handle 203 to the adjustable connector straps 201202. However, the primary support handle 203 may also be directly connected to the first and second adjustable connector straps 201202 through a variety of known methods, including through the use of stitching or a bonding adhesive. In such an embodiment, the ring structures 209210 and first and second support handle rings 211212 may not be necessary.
In another alternative embodiment that is not depicted, a free end of each adjustable connector strap is sewn or bonded to a portion of the primary support handle, providing a robust connection that can withstand the weight and force exerted during exercises. Where sewing is selected as the method of attachment, the strength of the bond is highly dependent on the stitching method, quality of the thread, and density of the stitches. Reinforced stitching or double-stitching can be used for added strength. Alternatively, the primary support handle may be connected to the adjustable connector straps through adhesive bonding. Strong industrial adhesives can be used to bond the adjustable connector straps to the primary support handle. The foregoing industrial adhesives include epoxy resigns, cyanoacrylate, polyurethrane adhesives, or silicone-based adhesives. For optimal bonding, each surface should be clean, dry, and free from oils, dust, or any contaminants. This can involve cleaning the surfaces with solvents or physically abrading them to increase the bond strength. The adhesive is applied to one or both surfaces (i.e. the primary support handle and respective adjustable connector straps), depending on the adhesive type and manufacturer's instructions. The amount of adhesive needs to be sufficient to cover the bonding area entirely when the parts are joined. The primary support handle and adjustable connector straps are pressed together firmly. Depending on the adhesive, clamps or weights might be used to keep the parts together while the adhesive cures. The adhesive is then given time to cure. Thereafter, any excess adhesive is removed and the bonded area can be further processed or finished as necessary.
According to the present embodiment, the first support handle ring 211407 is attached to the primary support handle 103203408 via a first central hub 406. The first central hub 406 is illustratively of a cylindrical shape and made of a durable material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or high quality plastic. The first support handle ring 211407 is attached or otherwise operably connected to the first central hub 406. The first central hub 406 and first support handle ring 407 may be separate components or may be one component made from the same mold. In yet another embodiment, the central hub may contain a rotational mechanism, such that the first support handle ring 407 may rotate within the central hub 406. In another embodiment, the first support handle ring 211407 may include a clip, such that the primary support handle 408 may be removed from the ring structure 405. This same structure may be repeated with respect to the second adjustable connector strap, as depicted in
As previously described, the first support handle ring 407, first ring structure 405, and first central hub 406, may not be necessary to connect the primary support handle 408 to the adjustable connector straps. In the alternative, the adjustable connector straps may be attached directly to the primary support handle via a bonding adhesive or stitching.
Having described and illustrated the principles of the invention in a preferred embodiment thereof, it should be apparent that the invention may be modified in arrangement and detail without departing from such principles. Claim is made to all modifications and variation coming within the spirit and scope of the following claims.
