US20080161173A1 - Inclinable Exercise Device With Clamp Mechanism and Method of Using Same - Google Patents
Inclinable Exercise Device With Clamp Mechanism and Method of Using Same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080161173A1 US20080161173A1 US12/049,501 US4950108A US2008161173A1 US 20080161173 A1 US20080161173 A1 US 20080161173A1 US 4950108 A US4950108 A US 4950108A US 2008161173 A1 US2008161173 A1 US 2008161173A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- incline
- adjustable incline
- vertical support
- adjustable
- support member
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
- A63B21/068—User-manipulated weights using user's body weight
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
- A63B21/062—User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces
- A63B21/0622—User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces with adjustable inclination angle of the guiding means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/06—User-manipulated weights
- A63B21/062—User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces
- A63B21/0626—User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces with substantially vertical guiding means
- A63B21/0628—User-manipulated weights including guide for vertical or non-vertical weights or array of weights to move against gravity forces with substantially vertical guiding means for vertical array of weights
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
- A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
- A63B21/154—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0087—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with a seat or torso support moving during the exercise, e.g. reformers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/03575—Apparatus used for exercising upper and lower limbs simultaneously
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0015—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements
- A63B22/0023—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements the inclination of the main axis of the movement path being adjustable, e.g. the inclination of an endless band
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/12—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player specially adapted for children
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2210/00—Space saving
- A63B2210/50—Size reducing arrangements for stowing or transport
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
- A63B2225/09—Adjustable dimensions
- A63B2225/093—Height
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an inclinable exercise device including a clamping mechanism that eliminates the needs for hooks, notches, holes, pins, or the like in setting the incline angle in the inclinable exercise device, and allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a greater number of angles than was possible in the past.
- an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
- a further aspect of the invention involves an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and means for clamping at the first end of the adjustable incline for providing a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
- a still further aspect of the invention involves a method of using an exercise device including providing an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline; moving the first end of the adjustable incline vertically relative to the vertical support member to a desired height for a desired incline of the adjustable incline; and activating the clamping mechanism to provide a clamping
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including an embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles;
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the clamping mechanism illustrated in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , but with another embodiment of pulley support bars shown attached to the clamping mechanism, and shows the clamping mechanism in an unlocked position;
- FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown in FIG. 3 , and shows the clamping mechanism in a semi-locked position;
- FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , and shows the clamping mechanism in a locked position.
- FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including an alternative embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles;
- FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including a further embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles;
- FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of the inclinable exercise device shown in FIG. 7 , but with the ladder/tower 70 removed;
- FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the inclinable exercise device shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the inclinable exercise device shown in FIG. 7 ;
- FIGS. 11 and 12 are cross-sectional views taken along the line shown in FIG. 9 , and show the clamping mechanism in an unlocked position ( FIG. 11 ) and a locked position ( FIG. 12 ).
- an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device 50 including an embodiment of a clamping mechanism 60 and method of using the same will be described.
- the inclinable exercise device 50 includes ladder/tower 70 with a pair of vertical support members 35 . Although two vertical support members 35 are shown, in an alternative embodiment, the tower 70 includes one or more vertical support members 35 . Slide brackets 55 are slidable along the vertical support members 35 .
- the slide brackets 55 are U-shaped brackets including opposing flanges 80 pivotally coupled to rail brackets 116 of upper rails 112 via cam members 161 and fasteners 156 (e.g., bolts, nuts, washers). Rectangular rubber grip members 155 are disposed on a span of the slide brackets 55 on a rear side of the vertical support members 35 (to assist in gripping the vertical support members 35 with the cam members 161 ).
- the cam members 161 are narrow curvilinear members made of a rigid material to transfer the leverage loads efficiently and are lined or coated with an elastomer to improve grip strength.
- the cam members 161 have a top 162 , an abutment side 163 , and a bottom 164 .
- Lower rails 101 are pivotally coupled to upper rails 112 .
- a strut 130 is pivotally connected to a base tube 135 at the lower end of the vertical support members 35 and is also pivotally connected to a rail pivot point 123 .
- Lift-assist mechanism 150 is pivotally connect to a pivot point 170 of the strut 130 and is also pivotally connected at an opposite end to approximate mid-points of the upper rails 112 though a pivot bar 180 .
- the lift-assist mechanism 150 is a push-type gas spring.
- the push-type gas spring provides an upward angled force towards the pivot bar 180 , reducing the upward force and work required by a user when raising the height and increasing the angle of the upper rails 112 relative to the ground. This upward force also makes it easier to lower the height and reduce the angle of the upper rails 112 because it reduces the lifting work required of the user.
- a pulley arm 154 connects the U-shaped brackets 80 and terminates in opposite pulley support bars 138 .
- the supports bars 138 are integral with pulley arm 154
- the support bars 138 are separate from the arm 154 . Attached to the pulley support bars 138 are pulleys 166 .
- the pulley support bars 138 extend outward from the U-shaped brackets 80 beyond the outer edge of the upper rails 112 .
- a connector extends through the pulleys 166 and connects to the user support platform 120 .
- the connector may be of any suitable well-known type, but is preferably a cable with handles at each end.
- the cable extends through the pulleys 166 positioned on the pulley support bars 138 and loops through a third pulley attached to the user support platform 120 .
- the third pulley is positioned along the lateral centerline of the user support platform. This position allows for unilateral (i.e. one arm), bilateral (i.e., two arm) and static equilibrium (i.e.
- the cable should preferably be of sufficient length to extend through the pulleys 166 and allow the exerciser to grasp one or both of the handles while the exerciser is on the user support platform 120 and the user support platform 120 is at rest.
- the connector is two separate cables extending through the pulleys 166 with each cable fixedly attached to the user support platform 120 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates the clamping mechanism 60 in an unlocked position.
- the rails 101 , 112 are lifted and the tower 70 is pulled towards the rails 101 , 112 so that the cam member 161 no longer contacts the vertical support members 35 .
- the clamping mechanisms 60 are free to move vertically along the vertical support members 35 .
- FIG. 4 illustrates the clamping mechanism 60 in a semi-locked position.
- the tower 70 is pushed away from the rails 101 , 112 and the rails 101 , 112 are let go. This causes the abutment sides 163 of the cam members 161 to contact the vertical support members 35 .
- This does not fully lock the clamping mechanism 60 in position, but holds the clamping mechanism 60 tight enough against the vertical support members 35 until weight on the rails 101 , 112 or a hand push downward on the rails 101 , 112 drop the rails 101 , 112 and put the clamping mechanism 60 into the position shown in FIG. 5 .
- the clamping mechanism 60 would be locked after the centerline CL of the rails 101 , 112 is pushed below the fasteners (e.g., bolt) 162 , as shown in FIG. 5 .
- FIG. 5 illustrates the clamping mechanism 60 in a locked position.
- the clamping mechanism 60 is locked because the more weight applied to the rails, the tighter the cam members 161 press against the vertical support members 35 .
- the centerline CL of the rails 101 , 112 is pushed below the left fasteners (e.g., left bolt) 156 of the U shaped bracket 80 (CL passes through the U shaped bracket 80 ).
- the torque created by the pulley force F from exercising rotates the cam members 161 further against the vertical support members 35 , further tightening the clamping mechanism 60 against the vertical support members 35 .
- the clamp 210 includes a rear L-shaped clamp section 220 integrally joined with a forward L-shaped clamp section 230 .
- the L-shaped clamp sections 220 , 230 include respective rubber coatings or covers.
- the rails 101 , 112 are lifted and the tower 70 is pulled towards the rails 101 , 112 so that the clamp members 220 becomes loose on the vertical support members 35 .
- the clamping mechanisms 200 are free to move vertically along the vertical support members 35 .
- the tower 70 is pushed away from the rails 101 , 112 and the rails 101 , 112 are let go. Weight or downward force is applied to the rails 101 , 112 .
- FIG. 6 also illustrates alternative embodiments of pulley support bars 300 , 310 .
- resistance level information is provided along the tower (e.g., on the vertical support members 35 ) to assist the user in selecting an incline/resistance level for the rails 101 , 112 .
- the upper rails 112 are directly pivotally connected to U-shaped slide bracket 410 via fasteners (e.g., bolts) 420 .
- a broad, curved U-shaped lever 430 is disposed between the U-shaped slide bracket 410 .
- the lever 430 is pivotally attached to the U-shaped slide brackets 410 through fasteners (e.g., bolts 440 ).
- Bolts 440 and bolts 445 are used to connect the respective ends of the lever 430 to respective cam members 460 .
- Bolts 445 move within curved slots 448 of U-shaped brackets 410 with pivotal movement of the lever 430 .
- the cam members 460 are disposed in U-shaped slide brackets 410 and move/rotate with pivotal movement of the lever 430 . Similar to cam members 161 , the cam members 460 are narrow curvilinear members made of a rigid material to transfer the leverage loads efficiently and are lined or coated with an elastomer to improve grip strength.
- the cam members 460 pivot around bolts 440 and they are spring loaded with torsion springs that urge the lever into the locked position shown in FIG. 12 .
- the torsion springs are disengaged by the lever 430 connected to the cam members 460 by means of bolts 445 and 440 .
- the method of using clamping mechanism 400 does not require the process of lifting and pulling the ladder/tower 70 toward the rails 112 . Instead, one lifts the lever 430 to the position shown in FIG. 11 , where the clamping mechanism 400 is in an unlocked position (the cam members 460 are disengaged from the vertical support members 35 ), while vertically suspending the rails 112 at the same time, then move the rails 112 to the desired vertical position/angle and hold the rails 112 while releasing the lever 430 so that the lever 430 is urged by the torsion springs to the locked position shown in FIG. 12 , where the clamping mechanism 400 is secured to the vertical support members 35 .
- An inclinable exercise device with a clamping mechanism such as, but not limited to, clamping mechanism 60 , 200 , 400 eliminates the needs for hooks, notches, holes, pins, and/or the like in setting the incline angle in the inclinable exercise device, and allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a greater number of angles than was possible in the past.
- the inclinable exercise device with a clamping mechanism allows one to set the rails 101 , 112 at a much greater number of incline levels or resistance levels because there are not a select number of hooks, notches, holes limiting the number of incline levels or resistance levels. This gives the user much more control and variety in setting the exercise resistance level.
Abstract
An exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/688,539, filed Mar. 20, 2007, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/785,541, filed Feb. 24, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,270,628 and claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application 60/896,592, filed Mar. 23, 2007, U.S.Provisional Application 60/806,146, filed Jun. 29, 2006, and U.S.Provisional Application 60/790,325, filed Apr. 6, 2006. All of these applications/patent(s) are incorporated by reference as though set forth in full. - The present invention relates to an inclinable exercise device including a clamping mechanism that eliminates the needs for hooks, notches, holes, pins, or the like in setting the incline angle in the inclinable exercise device, and allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a greater number of angles than was possible in the past.
- Another aspect of the invention involves an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
- A further aspect of the invention involves an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and means for clamping at the first end of the adjustable incline for providing a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
- A still further aspect of the invention involves a method of using an exercise device including providing an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline; moving the first end of the adjustable incline vertically relative to the vertical support member to a desired height for a desired incline of the adjustable incline; and activating the clamping mechanism to provide a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the desired incline of the adjustable incline.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including an embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles; -
FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the clamping mechanism illustrated inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown inFIGS. 1 and 2 , but with another embodiment of pulley support bars shown attached to the clamping mechanism, and shows the clamping mechanism in an unlocked position; -
FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown inFIG. 3 , and shows the clamping mechanism in a semi-locked position; -
FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a clamping mechanism similar to that shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 , and shows the clamping mechanism in a locked position. -
FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including an alternative embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles; -
FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of an embodiment of an inclinable exercise device including a further embodiment of a clamping mechanism that allows the inclinable exercise device to be inclined at a larger number of angles; -
FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of the inclinable exercise device shown inFIG. 7 , but with the ladder/tower 70 removed; -
FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the inclinable exercise device shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of the inclinable exercise device shown inFIG. 7 ; -
FIGS. 11 and 12 are cross-sectional views taken along the line shown inFIG. 9 , and show the clamping mechanism in an unlocked position (FIG. 11 ) and a locked position (FIG. 12 ). - With reference to
FIGS. 1-5 , an embodiment of aninclinable exercise device 50 including an embodiment of aclamping mechanism 60 and method of using the same will be described. - Before describing the
clamping mechanism 60, theinclinable exercise device 50 will first be generally described. Theinclinable exercise device 50 includes ladder/tower 70 with a pair ofvertical support members 35. Although twovertical support members 35 are shown, in an alternative embodiment, thetower 70 includes one or morevertical support members 35.Slide brackets 55 are slidable along thevertical support members 35. - The
slide brackets 55 are U-shaped brackets includingopposing flanges 80 pivotally coupled torail brackets 116 ofupper rails 112 viacam members 161 and fasteners 156 (e.g., bolts, nuts, washers). Rectangularrubber grip members 155 are disposed on a span of theslide brackets 55 on a rear side of the vertical support members 35 (to assist in gripping thevertical support members 35 with the cam members 161). Thecam members 161 are narrow curvilinear members made of a rigid material to transfer the leverage loads efficiently and are lined or coated with an elastomer to improve grip strength. Thecam members 161 have atop 162, anabutment side 163, and abottom 164.Lower rails 101 are pivotally coupled toupper rails 112. Astrut 130 is pivotally connected to abase tube 135 at the lower end of thevertical support members 35 and is also pivotally connected to arail pivot point 123. Lift-assist mechanism 150 is pivotally connect to apivot point 170 of thestrut 130 and is also pivotally connected at an opposite end to approximate mid-points of theupper rails 112 though apivot bar 180. In the embodiment shown, the lift-assist mechanism 150 is a push-type gas spring. The push-type gas spring provides an upward angled force towards thepivot bar 180, reducing the upward force and work required by a user when raising the height and increasing the angle of theupper rails 112 relative to the ground. This upward force also makes it easier to lower the height and reduce the angle of theupper rails 112 because it reduces the lifting work required of the user. - A user support platform or
glideboard 120 with rollers (not shown) rolls along therails - A
pulley arm 154 connects the U-shapedbrackets 80 and terminates in oppositepulley support bars 138. Although in the embodiment shown thesupports bars 138 are integral withpulley arm 154, in an alternative embodiment, thesupport bars 138 are separate from thearm 154. Attached to thepulley support bars 138 arepulleys 166. - The
pulley support bars 138 extend outward from the U-shapedbrackets 80 beyond the outer edge of theupper rails 112. Although not shown, a connector extends through thepulleys 166 and connects to theuser support platform 120. The connector may be of any suitable well-known type, but is preferably a cable with handles at each end. The cable extends through thepulleys 166 positioned on thepulley support bars 138 and loops through a third pulley attached to theuser support platform 120. The third pulley is positioned along the lateral centerline of the user support platform. This position allows for unilateral (i.e. one arm), bilateral (i.e., two arm) and static equilibrium (i.e. holding the user support platform 28 suspended by keeping a constant force on each handle) use. The cable should preferably be of sufficient length to extend through thepulleys 166 and allow the exerciser to grasp one or both of the handles while the exerciser is on theuser support platform 120 and theuser support platform 120 is at rest. - In an alternate embodiment, the connector is two separate cables extending through the
pulleys 166 with each cable fixedly attached to theuser support platform 120. - With reference to
FIGS. 3-5 , theinclinable exercise device 50 andclamping mechanism 60 will now be described in use.FIG. 3 illustrates theclamping mechanism 60 in an unlocked position. To unlock theclamping mechanism 60, therails tower 70 is pulled towards therails cam member 161 no longer contacts thevertical support members 35. In this position, theclamping mechanisms 60 are free to move vertically along thevertical support members 35. -
FIG. 4 illustrates theclamping mechanism 60 in a semi-locked position. To put theclamping mechanism 60 in this position, thetower 70 is pushed away from therails rails abutment sides 163 of thecam members 161 to contact thevertical support members 35. This does not fully lock theclamping mechanism 60 in position, but holds theclamping mechanism 60 tight enough against thevertical support members 35 until weight on therails rails rails clamping mechanism 60 into the position shown inFIG. 5 . Theclamping mechanism 60 would be locked after the centerline CL of therails FIG. 5 . -
FIG. 5 illustrates theclamping mechanism 60 in a locked position. In this position, theclamping mechanism 60 is locked because the more weight applied to the rails, the tighter thecam members 161 press against thevertical support members 35. In this position, the centerline CL of therails cam members 161 further against thevertical support members 35, further tightening theclamping mechanism 60 against thevertical support members 35. - With reference to
FIG. 6 , an alternative embodiment of aclamping mechanism 200 having aU-shaped clamp 210 is shown. Theclamp 210 includes a rear L-shapedclamp section 220 integrally joined with a forward L-shapedclamp section 230. The L-shapedclamp sections - Similar to the method of use described above with respect to
FIGS. 3-5 , to unlock theclamping mechanism 200 from thevertical support members 35, therails tower 70 is pulled towards therails clamp members 220 becomes loose on thevertical support members 35. In this position, the clampingmechanisms 200 are free to move vertically along thevertical support members 35. To lock the clampingmechanisms 200 to thevertical support members 35, thetower 70 is pushed away from therails rails rails clamp sections 220 to move relatively upward along the rear of thevertical support members 35 and the forward L-shapedclamp sections 230 to move relatively downward along the front of thevertical support members 35, tightening the clampingmechanisms 200 against thevertical support members 35 and securing the clampingmechanisms 200 in position. -
FIG. 6 also illustrates alternative embodiments of pulley support bars 300, 310. - Although not shown, in another embodiment of the invention, resistance level information is provided along the tower (e.g., on the vertical support members 35) to assist the user in selecting an incline/resistance level for the
rails - With reference to
FIGS. 7-12 , an alternative embodiment of aclamping mechanism 400 will be described. In this embodiment, theupper rails 112 are directly pivotally connected toU-shaped slide bracket 410 via fasteners (e.g., bolts) 420. A broad, curvedU-shaped lever 430 is disposed between theU-shaped slide bracket 410. Thelever 430 is pivotally attached to theU-shaped slide brackets 410 through fasteners (e.g., bolts 440).Bolts 440 andbolts 445 are used to connect the respective ends of thelever 430 torespective cam members 460.Bolts 445 move withincurved slots 448 ofU-shaped brackets 410 with pivotal movement of thelever 430. Thecam members 460 are disposed inU-shaped slide brackets 410 and move/rotate with pivotal movement of thelever 430. Similar tocam members 161, thecam members 460 are narrow curvilinear members made of a rigid material to transfer the leverage loads efficiently and are lined or coated with an elastomer to improve grip strength. Thecam members 460 pivot aroundbolts 440 and they are spring loaded with torsion springs that urge the lever into the locked position shown inFIG. 12 . The torsion springs are disengaged by thelever 430 connected to thecam members 460 by means ofbolts - Unlike the methods described above with respect to
FIGS. 1-6 , the method of usingclamping mechanism 400 does not require the process of lifting and pulling the ladder/tower 70 toward therails 112. Instead, one lifts thelever 430 to the position shown inFIG. 11 , where theclamping mechanism 400 is in an unlocked position (thecam members 460 are disengaged from the vertical support members 35), while vertically suspending therails 112 at the same time, then move therails 112 to the desired vertical position/angle and hold therails 112 while releasing thelever 430 so that thelever 430 is urged by the torsion springs to the locked position shown inFIG. 12 , where theclamping mechanism 400 is secured to thevertical support members 35. - An inclinable exercise device with a clamping mechanism such as, but not limited to,
clamping mechanism rails rails - The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles described herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is to be understood that the description and drawings presented herein represent presently preferred embodiments of the invention and are therefore representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention. It is further understood that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments that may become obvious to those skilled in the art and that the scope of the present invention is accordingly limited by nothing other than the appended claims.
Claims (5)
1. An exercise device, comprising:
a vertical support member;
an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline;
a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline;
first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline;
one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and
a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
2. An exercise device, comprising:
a vertical support member;
an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline;
a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline;
first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline;
one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and
means for clamping at the first end of the adjustable incline for providing a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline.
3. A method of using an exercise device, comprising:
providing an exercise device including a vertical support member; an adjustable incline having a first end and a second end, the first end of the adjustable incline vertically movable with respect to the vertical support member for setting the incline of the adjustable incline; a user support platform movably attached to the adjustable incline; first and second pulleys coupled to the adjustable incline; one or more cables extendable through first and second pulleys and coupled to the user support platform for movement of the support platform along the adjustable incline through cable movement; and a clamping mechanism at the first end of the adjustable incline that provides a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the incline of the adjustable incline;
moving the first end of the adjustable incline vertically relative to the vertical support member to a desired height for a desired incline of the adjustable incline;
activating the clamping mechanism to provide a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the desired incline of the adjustable incline.
4. The method of claim 3 , further including deactivating the clamping mechanism to remove a clamping force on the vertical support member so that the first end of the adjustable incline is freely movable relative to the vertical support member in the vertical direction.
5. The method of claim 4 , further including moving the first end of the adjustable incline vertically relative to the vertical support member to a desired height for a desired incline of the adjustable incline; and activating the clamping mechanism to provide a clamping force on the vertical support member to fix the first end of the adjustable incline relative to the vertical support member to set the desired incline of the adjustable incline.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/049,501 US20080161173A1 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2008-03-17 | Inclinable Exercise Device With Clamp Mechanism and Method of Using Same |
US12/111,310 US7775950B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2008-04-29 | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch board and method |
US12/857,667 US8075457B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2010-08-17 | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch board and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/785,541 US7270628B2 (en) | 2003-02-26 | 2004-02-24 | Method of using a collapsible exercise device |
US89659207P | 2007-03-23 | 2007-03-23 | |
US12/049,501 US20080161173A1 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2008-03-17 | Inclinable Exercise Device With Clamp Mechanism and Method of Using Same |
Related Parent Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/785,541 Continuation-In-Part US7270628B2 (en) | 2003-02-26 | 2004-02-24 | Method of using a collapsible exercise device |
US11/688,539 Continuation-In-Part US7503880B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2007-03-20 | Exercise device |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/111,310 Continuation-In-Part US7775950B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2008-04-29 | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch board and method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20080161173A1 true US20080161173A1 (en) | 2008-07-03 |
Family
ID=39584834
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/049,501 Abandoned US20080161173A1 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2008-03-17 | Inclinable Exercise Device With Clamp Mechanism and Method of Using Same |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20080161173A1 (en) |
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US20090181834A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2009-07-16 | Engineering Fitness International Corporation | Exercise Device and Method of Using Same |
US20100179038A1 (en) * | 2009-01-13 | 2010-07-15 | Hart Wood, Inc. Dba Root Manufacturing | Ladder Barrel with Cam Lock |
US20100227748A1 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2010-09-09 | Total Gym Fitness, Llc | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch exercise accessory apparatus and method |
US20100311555A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2010-12-09 | Engineering Fitness International Corp. | Inclinable Exercise Device With Abdominal Crunch Board and Method |
US20100317497A1 (en) * | 2009-06-12 | 2010-12-16 | Yasser Nadim | Exercise device and method of using same |
US20110009249A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2011-01-13 | Engineering Fitness International Corporation | Method of Using an Exercise Device Having an Adjustable Incline |
WO2012027333A3 (en) * | 2010-08-27 | 2012-05-31 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Collapsible inclinable exercise device and method of using same |
US20130331239A1 (en) * | 2012-05-21 | 2013-12-12 | Todd Richards | Weight Lifting Machines and Methods |
US20170014667A1 (en) * | 2015-07-15 | 2017-01-19 | Larry W. Barnett | Exercise Device |
USD812159S1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2018-03-06 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Push-up exercise bench |
USD974507S1 (en) * | 2020-06-12 | 2023-01-03 | Kormel LLC | Exercise bench for performing gluteal bridge movements |
WO2024023589A1 (en) * | 2022-07-29 | 2024-02-01 | Patnam Varunodaya Goud | A foldable decline board adapted to be used for gravity based stress relieving |
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US8323157B2 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2012-12-04 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Method of using an exercise device having an adjustable incline |
US7766801B2 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2010-08-03 | Engineering Fitness International Corporation | Method of using an exercise device having an adjustable incline |
US20100311555A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2010-12-09 | Engineering Fitness International Corp. | Inclinable Exercise Device With Abdominal Crunch Board and Method |
US20090181834A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2009-07-16 | Engineering Fitness International Corporation | Exercise Device and Method of Using Same |
US20110009249A1 (en) * | 2004-02-24 | 2011-01-13 | Engineering Fitness International Corporation | Method of Using an Exercise Device Having an Adjustable Incline |
US8696528B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2014-04-15 | Total Gym Global Corporation | Exercise device and method of using same |
US8075457B2 (en) | 2004-02-24 | 2011-12-13 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch board and method |
US20100179038A1 (en) * | 2009-01-13 | 2010-07-15 | Hart Wood, Inc. Dba Root Manufacturing | Ladder Barrel with Cam Lock |
US8052586B2 (en) * | 2009-01-13 | 2011-11-08 | Hart Wood, Inc. | Ladder barrel with cam lock |
US20100227748A1 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2010-09-09 | Total Gym Fitness, Llc | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch exercise accessory apparatus and method |
US7938763B2 (en) * | 2009-03-06 | 2011-05-10 | Engineering Fitness International Corp. | Inclinable exercise device with abdominal crunch exercise accessory apparatus and method |
US20100317497A1 (en) * | 2009-06-12 | 2010-12-16 | Yasser Nadim | Exercise device and method of using same |
US7955240B2 (en) * | 2009-06-12 | 2011-06-07 | Yasser Nadim | Exercise device and method of using same |
WO2012027333A3 (en) * | 2010-08-27 | 2012-05-31 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Collapsible inclinable exercise device and method of using same |
US8834332B2 (en) | 2010-08-27 | 2014-09-16 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Collapsible inclinable exercise device and method of using same |
US20130331239A1 (en) * | 2012-05-21 | 2013-12-12 | Todd Richards | Weight Lifting Machines and Methods |
US9227106B2 (en) * | 2012-05-21 | 2016-01-05 | Todd Richards | Weight lifting machine |
USD812159S1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2018-03-06 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Push-up exercise bench |
USD812158S1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2018-03-06 | Total Gym Global Corp. | Pull-up exercise bench |
US20170014667A1 (en) * | 2015-07-15 | 2017-01-19 | Larry W. Barnett | Exercise Device |
US10426991B2 (en) * | 2015-07-15 | 2019-10-01 | Larry W. Barnett | Exercise device |
USD974507S1 (en) * | 2020-06-12 | 2023-01-03 | Kormel LLC | Exercise bench for performing gluteal bridge movements |
WO2024023589A1 (en) * | 2022-07-29 | 2024-02-01 | Patnam Varunodaya Goud | A foldable decline board adapted to be used for gravity based stress relieving |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ENGINEERING FITNESS INTERNATIONAL CORP., CALIFORNI Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:CAMPANARO, THOMAS J.;MCCUTCHEON, DAN;REEL/FRAME:020659/0385 Effective date: 20080303 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |