US20110237407A1 - Variable-resistance exercise device - Google Patents
Variable-resistance exercise device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110237407A1 US20110237407A1 US13/074,239 US201113074239A US2011237407A1 US 20110237407 A1 US20110237407 A1 US 20110237407A1 US 201113074239 A US201113074239 A US 201113074239A US 2011237407 A1 US2011237407 A1 US 2011237407A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- exercise device
- variable
- portable
- spool
- resistance exercise
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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
- A63B21/02—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters
- A63B21/023—Wound springs
- A63B21/025—Spiral springs with turns lying substantially in plane surfaces
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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
- A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
- A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
- A63B21/153—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains wound-up and unwound during exercise, e.g. from a reel
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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
- A63B21/16—Supports for anchoring force-resisters
- A63B21/1618—Supports for anchoring force-resisters on a door or a door frame
- A63B21/1645—Supports for anchoring force-resisters on a door or a door frame for anchoring on a door
-
- 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
- A63B21/16—Supports for anchoring force-resisters
- A63B21/1618—Supports for anchoring force-resisters on a door or a door frame
- A63B21/1663—Supports for anchoring force-resisters on a door or a door frame for anchoring between a door and the door frame
-
- 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
- A63B21/16—Supports for anchoring force-resisters
- A63B21/1672—Supports for anchoring force-resisters for anchoring on beds or mattresses
-
- 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
- A63B23/03516—For both arms together or both legs together; Aspects related to the co-ordination between right and left side limbs of a user
- A63B23/03533—With separate means driven by each limb, i.e. performing different movements
- A63B23/03541—Moving independently from each other
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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
- 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
- A63B23/0355—A single apparatus used for either upper or lower limbs, i.e. with a set of support elements driven either by the upper or the lower limb or limbs
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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
- A63B21/00058—Mechanical means for varying the resistance
- A63B21/00065—Mechanical means for varying the resistance by increasing or reducing the number of resistance units
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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
- 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
- A63B23/03508—For a single arm or leg
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
Abstract
A portable, variable-resistance exercise device comprised of a retractable cable connected to a spring assembly, the spring having a plurality of springs that are selectively connectable to each other to vary the resistance exerted on the cable.
Description
- The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment and, more particularly, to a variable-resistance exercise device that is lightweight and portable.
- The benefits of exercise and weight training to the health of an individual cannot be underestimated. The recognized benefits of exercise and strength training have led to an increase in the number of gyms and workout facilities where individuals can exercise under the guidance and instruction of trained professionals who can tailor workout routines particularly suited for an individual's age, health, and condition.
- For some individuals, the cost of training at a workout facility under the guidance of a trained professional can be cost prohibitive. For others, such as the elderly or infirmed who may be bedridden, the ability to partake in supervised activities at gyms and workout facilities is greatly limited. Still further, there are instances where an individual who normally trains at a facility may be required to travel to locations where access to a workout facility is not available.
- As a result, there is a need for a workout device that is portable, wherein individuals can utilize a variable-resistance device to obtain a workout at remote locations and a device that is suitable for use by the elderly at home or by the infirmed in a hospital setting.
- The present invention provides a variable-resistance exercise device that is lightweight and portable and that may be used in a variety of settings by individuals having a wide range of physical abilities. In addition, the present invention provides an exercise device as described above together with a workout routine that can be designed to address the different physical abilities of a specific user of the exercise device.
- In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a portable, variable-resistance exercise device comprised of a retractable cable connected to a spring assembly, the spring assembly having a plurality of springs that are selectively connectable to each other to vary the resistance exerted on
- The advantage of the present invention is an exercise device that is lightweight and portable.
- Another advantage of the present invention is an exercise device that has variable-resistance settings.
- Another advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes a memory means for storing data relating to a user's workout routine.
- Another advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that is capable of storing data relating to the number of repetitions, resistance (workload), and resistance settings during a workout routine.
- Another advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above including means for connecting the exercise device to an external computer or database for storing data relating to an exercise routine (workout).
- Another advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that is suitable for use by individuals of all ages and abilities.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that may be used by patients confined to wheelchairs or hospital beds.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes a retractable cable having hand grips, ankle straps, and leg straps that are attachable to the retractable cable.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes an adjustable spring assembly that is adjustable to adjust the resistance exerted on the cable of the exercise device.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes a multiple spring assembly wherein one or more springs may be connected together to vary the resistance of the cable of the exercise device.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes sensing means for sensing operating parameters of the exercise device.
- A still further advantage of the present invention is an exercise device as described above that includes sensing means that senses the number of repetitions during a specific exercise and the resistance exerted during such exercise.
- These and other advantages will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment taken together with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims.
- The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, a preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise device, illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present invention and showing the exercise device attached to an upper edge of a door; -
FIG. 2 is a partially sectioned view, showing the exercise device ofFIG. 1 attached to an upper edge of a door and being used to perform a first type of arm exercise; -
FIG. 3 is a partially sectioned view, showing the exercise device ofFIG. 1 attached to a lower edge of a door and being used to perform a second type of arm exercise; -
FIG. 4 is a front, elevational view of a door and a door frame, showing two spaced-apart exercise devices as show inFIG. 1 mounted to the door to be used together to perform another type of exercise; -
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the exercise device shown inFIG. 1 , showing a device mounted to a door jamb; -
FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along lines 6-6 ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the exercise device shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a bedridden patient and the exercise device shown inFIG. 1 attached to a bed frame for use by the patient; and -
FIG. 9 is a front view partially in section of the exercise device, illustrating an alternate embodiment of the present invention; - Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting same,
FIGS. 1-8 show anexercise device 10, illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present invention.Exercise device 10 is designed for use in combination with a specific workout program stored in digital format on a computer or other electronic device, as shall be described in greater detail below. -
Exercise device 10 is adapted for mounting to a support surface, such as, by way of example and not limitation, adoor 12 mounted to aframe 14, as illustrated inFIGS. 1-4 . In the drawing,door 12 andframe 14 are shown with awall 16 and afloor 18. As will be described in greater detail below, it is also contemplated thatexercise device 10 could be mounted to the frame of a wheelchair or bed. -
Exercise device 10, best seen inFIGS. 5-7 , is basically comprised of ahousing 20 containing acable assembly 100 and aspring assembly 200.Housing 20 has afirst housing section 22 and asecond housing section 24. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 5-7 ,first housing section 22 is generally rectangular in shape and defines a generally rectangularinner cavity 26.First housing section 22 has aflat bottom wall 22 a and fourflat side walls divider wall 22 f extends fromside wall 22 c.Knee wall 22 f is generally parallel tobottom wall 22 a and defines afirst compartment 32 and asecond compartment 34, best seen inFIG. 7 , withinhousing 20. A hole or opening 36, best seen inFIG. 7 , is formed inknee wall 22 f, as shall be described in greater detail below. - A generally
cylindrical mounting post 42 extends from the inner surface ofbottom wall 22 a.Post 42 is cylindrical in shape and extends along an axis designated “A” in the drawings. Acylindrical collar 44 is formed at the base ofpost 42 wherepost 42 extends frombottom wall 22 a.Post 42 is generally disposed in the center ofbottom wall 22 a. - An opening 52′ is formed in
side wall 22 c.Opening 52 is disposed infirst compartment 32 and is dimensioned to receive agrommet 54 therein. Grommet 54 is generally tubular in shape and defines an opening 52′ throughside wall 22 c. A pair ofmounting lugs first housing section 22.Lugs bottom wall 22 a. Eachlug bore 66 formed therethrough.Bores 66 in thelugs first housing section 22. -
Second housing section 24 is dimensioned to be attached tofirst housing section 22. In the embodiment shown,second housing section 24 is essentially a flat rectangularplate having openings 72 formed at the corners thereof.Openings 72 are dimensioned to receiveconventional fasteners 74, such as, by way of example and not limitation, cap screws.Fasteners 74 are to be received in threadedopenings 76 infirst housing section 22, as illustrated in the drawings.Fasteners 74 attachsecond housing section 24 tofirst housing section 22 to encloseinner cavity 26. -
Second housing section 24 has ahub 82 formed on the inner surface thereof. Anopening 84 extends throughhub 82.Opening 84 is disposed to be axially aligned with axis “A” and post 42 onfirst housing section 22, whensecond housing section 24 is attached tofirst housing section 22.Opening 92 is formed throughsecond housing section 24 and is disposed to be axially aligned with opening 36 inknee wall 22 f, whensecond housing section 24 is attached tofirst housing section 22. As best seen inFIG. 7 , opening 92 extends through aboss 94 formed on the inner surface ofsecond housing section 24. -
Cable assembly 100 is dimensioned to be received withinfirst compartment 32 withinhousing 20.Cable assembly 100 is comprised of aspool 112 having acable 114 mounted thereon.Spool 112 has a central hub 112 a, best seen inFIG. 5 . Hub 112 a has a cylindrical inner cavity 112 b dimensioned to receivepost 42 onfirst housing section 22.Spool 112 includes acircular plate 112 c that surrounds hub 112 a. An annular collar 112 d is formed along the periphery ofcircular plate 112 c. Collar 112 d is generally U-shaped and includes abottom wall section 112 e and two spaced-apartwall sections 112 f that together define anannular channel 116 to receivecable 114.Cable 114 has a first end attached tospool 112 and a free end.Cable 114 has a predetermined length. In one embodiment,cable 114 has a length of at least 15 feet. In another embodiment,cable 114 has a length of between 15 and 30 feet.Cable 114 is dimensioned to be wound ontospool 112 withinannular channel 116 defined by collar 112 d. - An
elongated pin 122 extends axially from one side ofspool 112. Aslot 124 is formed along the axis ofpin 122, as best seen inFIG. 7 .Spool 112 is symmetrical about an axis through hub 112 a andpin 122. -
Spool 112 is dimensioned to be received withinfirst compartment 32 defined withinhousing 20.Spool 112 is rotatably mounted onpost 42, such thatspool 112 and pin 122 are rotatable about axis “A.” As best seen inFIG. 5 ,grommet 54 is disposed to be aligned and in registry withspool 112 such that the free end ofcable 114 can extend through opening 52′ ingrommet 54, as illustrated inFIG. 6 . -
Spring assembly 200 is attachable tocable assembly 100 to create a selectively variable-resistance force oncable assembly 100.Spring assembly 200 is comprised of a plurality of springs that are selectively connectable to each other to produce a variable-resistance force to resist rotation ofspool 112 onpost 42. In the embodiment shown, threecoiled springs spring inner end outer end FIG. 7 . L-shaped inner ends 212. 222, 232 include a flat portion that is dimensioned to be received withinslot 124 inpin 122, as best seen inFIG. 6 . As shown in the drawings, springs 210, 220, 230 are mounted side-by-side onpin 122 ofspool 112, with eachinner end springs coiled springs pin 122 about axis “A.” -
Outer end 214 ofspring 210 is disposed to captureboss 94 on the inner surface ofsecond housing section 24. In this respect, whensecond housing section 24 is attached tofirst housing section 22, springs 210, 220, 230 are captured onpin 122 ofspool 112 betweenspool 112 and the inner surface ofsecond housing section 24.Pin 122 onspool 112 is dimensioned such that the free end thereof extends into opening 84 inhub 82 ofsecond housing section 24, such that the free end ofpin 122 is supported bysecond housing section 24.Boss 94 on the inner surface ofsecond housing section 24 is positioned to engage the U-shapedouter end 214 ofspring 210. In this respect, U-shapedouter end 214 ofspring 210 is positioned to capture and abut againstboss 94. - A
selector pin 252 is dimensioned to extend intohousing 20 throughopening 92 insecond housing section 24.Selector pin 252 includes aknurled head 254 andelongated shaft 256.Shaft 256 is dimensioned to be able to extend intoopening 36 inknee wall 22 f. As will be described in greater detail below,selector pin 252 is provided to capture and secure the U-shapedouter end springs - As illustrated in
FIG. 5 ,spring 230 is disposed withinfirst compartment 32 withinhousing 20, whereassprings second compartment 34 withinhousing 20. - A mounting
bracket 310 is provided to attachexercise device 10 to an external support. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 1-7 , mounting bracket 30 is designed to attachexercise device 10 to an edge of door or some other generally rectangular structure. It is also contemplated that a mountingbracket 310 could be designed to attachexercise device 10 to other structures, such as, by way of example and not limitation, tubular structural members of a wheelchair or hospital bed. - In the embodiment shown, mounting
bracket 310 has a generally U-shaped cross section that defines arectangular opening 312 that is dimensioned to receive the edge of adoor 12, as best seen inFIG. 5 . Mountingbracket 310 has two spaced-apartplanar panel sections 310 a, 310 b connected by a bottom panel section 310 c. Mountingbracket 310 defines arectangular opening 312 dimensioned to receive the edge ofdoor 12. Aboss 322 having a threadedopening 324 therethrough is formed onside panel 310 a. Threadedopening 324 is dimensioned to receive a clamping element in the form of athumb screw 326. Aplanar pad 328 is connected to the free end ofthumb screw 326.Pad 328 is dimensioned to be pressed against the surface ofdoor 112 whenthumb screw 326 is tightened there against. - The edge of
side panel 310 a is formed into asleeve 310 d having an axially-aligned opening extending therethrough.Sleeve 310 d on mountingbracket 310 is dimensioned to be positioned between mountinglugs first housing section 22. The opening insleeve 310 d is disposed on mountingbracket 310 to align with the openings inlugs first housing section 22. Anelongated pin 332 extends throughlugs sleeve 310 d pivotally connectshousing 20 to mountingbracket 310, such thathousing 20 is pivotally mounted to mountingbracket 310 about the axis ofelongated pivot pin 332. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , in accordance with another aspect of the present invention,housing 20 includes sensing means, memory means, and display means for respectively sensing, storing, and displaying information regarding the operating characteristics ofexercise device 10. Sensor 412 is disposed relative tospring selector pin 252 to determine the position thereof. As will be appreciated, the position ofselector pin 252 determines which ofsprings spool 112 to resist movement thereof. In other words, by determining the position ofselector pin 252 relative to springelements spool 112 can be determined. Similarly, a sensor arrangement 414 is associated withspool 112 and/orcable 114 to monitor movement thereof In the embodiment shown, sensor arrangement 414 is comprised of a first stationary sensor element 414 a which is stationary tohousing 20 and a movable sensor element 414 b which is mounted to collar 112 d ofspool 112 for movement therewith. Movement of sensor element 414 b past sensor element 414 a generates signals which are indicative of movement ofspool 112. Such signals are indicative of eachtime cable 114 is withdrawn and retracted, and such movement ofcable 114 and rotation ofspool 112. Such movement is used to determine a repetition of an exercise, as shall be described in greater detail below. - A controller 420, schematically illustrated as a circuit board in
FIG. 9 , is provided to receive and process signals from sensor 412 and sensor arrangement 414. In this respect, electrical leads 412 a and 414 c connect sensor 412 and sensor arrangement 414, respectively to controller 420. Using signals from sensor 412 and sensor arrangement 414, controller 420 can determine the number of repetitions and resistance applied tospool 112 during a workout routine. Controller 420 includes memory means for storing information regarding an exercise routine, namely, the number of repetitions and the resistance applied tospool 112. The memory means preferably also includes a timer and counter for determining and storing the time (rate), interval, and total number of repetitions. - A display panel 440 on the exterior of
housing 20 is connected to controller 420. Display panel 440 is provided to display information stored in the memory of controller 420 regarding use ofexercise device 10. By way of example and not limitation, display panel 440 may display the resistance applied tospool 112 andcable 114 during a routine, the number of repetitions during a specific time interval, a desired target goal of repetitions, and the current number of repetitions performed during an exercise routine. Control buttons 442 are provided on the housing to reset a counting routine or timing routine. - An internal power supply 450 is provided within
housing 20. Power supply 450 is connected to controller 420 by electrical lead 452. In the embodiment shown, power supply 450 is in the form of a battery 454, shown in phantom inFIG. 9 . Battery 454 may be replaceable or rechargeable withinhousing 20 by an electrical connector (not shown) connectable to an ordinary electrical outlet, as is conventionally known. - In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, controller 420 is connected by an electrical lead 462 to a universal (USB) port 460 that allows information stored within the processor/memory unit of controller 420 to be transferred to an external device, such as a laptop computer.
- In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the free end of
cable 114 includes a conventional connection device (not shown), such as a clevis, to facilitate attachments being connected tocable 114. The attachments may include hand grips, ankle bands, waist bands, a bar, or the like. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1-4 , the operation ofexercise device 10 shall now be described in greater detail. The embodiment ofexercise device 10, shown in the drawings, is adapted for attachment to aconventional door 12, as illustrated inFIGS. 1-4 .FIG. 8 illustrates howexercise device 10 may also be attached to aheadboard 612 of ahospital bed 610. It is also contemplated thatexercise device 10 could be also attached to rectangular or tubular parts of a wheelchair frame or stretcher frame (not shown). In this respect, blocks with V-shaped channels may replacepad 328 and side panel 310 b of mountingbracket 310. - As shown in
FIGS. 1-4 , theexercise device 10 may be clamped to any edge of adoor 12 by usingthumb screw 326 to clamp the edge to thedoor 12 betweenpad 328 and side panel 310 b of mountingbracket 310. With mountingbracket 310 in place,door 12 may be closed to prevent movement ofdoor 12 andexercise device 10 during a workout routine. - Handles or hand grips 512 may be attached to the connectors on the free end of
cable 114 to perform a variety of different arm and upper-body exercises. For example,FIG. 2 illustrates a shoulder exercise wherein a user “U” pulls against the resistance exerted oncable 114 byinternal spring assembly 200. As will be appreciated, ascable 114 is pulled down by the user “U,” the tension ofsprings springs cable 114 is pulled fromexercise device 10.Springs cable 114, thereby providing resistance to the user “ U” so as to exercise the particular muscle group. The tension insprings cable 114 back intohousing 20 during the return movement of the exercise. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a conventional pull-down exercise for working the shoulders.FIG. 3 illustrates a typical bicep curl for exercising the bicep portion of the arm.FIG. 4 illustrates twoexercise devices 10 attached to opposite edges ofdoor 12, whereinexercise devices 10 may be used simultaneously to exercise the upper chest by doing what is referred to as a “fly” exercise, where the arms are brought together in front of the body. - During each exercise,
spool 112 rotates aboutpost 42 in a first direction ascable 114 is drawn out ofhousing 20 through opening 52′ ingrommet 54. As will be appreciated, rotation ofspool 112 causeselongated pin 122 that is attached thereto to also rotate in the first direction. Becauseelongated pin 122 rotates withspool 112, the inner ends ofsprings spool 112 as it moves in the first direction. Becauseouter end 214 ofspring 210 is captured byboss 92 onsecond housing section 24,spring 210 always exerts a resistive force on rotations ofspool 112. Depending upon the position ofselector pin 252, as illustrated in phantom inFIG. 5 ,outer end springs selector pin 252 and prevented from rotating, thereby resisting rotation ofspool 112. In this respect, the resistance exerted oncable 114 can be varied, depending upon the position of theselector pin 252. As indicated above, sensor 412 detects the position ofselector pin 252 and, thus, provides controller 420 with an indication of the position ofselector pin 252. Based upon the sensed position ofselector pin 252, controller 420 determines the spring(s) resisting rotation ofspool 112 and the resistance exerted oncable 114. Moreover, sensor arrangement 414 provides controller 420 with signals indicative of the rotation ofspool 112. With this information, controller 420 determines a count of the number of repetitions for eachtime cable 114 is withdrawn fromhousing 20 by the user “U” and retracted intohousing 20. Thus, each withdrawal ofcable 114 fromhousing 20 during an exercise and each retraction can be counted to provide an indication of the number of repetitions of a given exercise. In conjunction with this, the resistance exerted oncable 114 can be stored in the memory of controller 420 to provide an indication of the number of repetitions at a given resistance. - In accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention,
exercise device 10 is designed to be used in conjunction with a pre-programmed exercise routine preferably set forth in memory or “online” on acomputer 520, illustrated inFIG. 3 . Amonitor 522 ofcomputer 520 can provide instructions as to the proper positioning ofexercise device 10 on an external support, such asdoor 12 orheadboard 612 of abed 610, and further provide instructions as to the proper technique and arm motions to perform a given exercise. Still further, preferably the program is specifically designed for a given user “U,” based upon the user's age, health, and capabilities. In other words, a specific workout routine, including a number of different exercises, can be provided in a stored computer database and provide a user “U” with visual indication as to the proper setup ofexercise device 10 and proper motions for a given exercise. The program would also provide the desired resistance setting and number of repetitions to be performed for each given exercise. The memory within controller 420 ofexercise device 10 can be programmed to monitor the performance of the “U” by monitoring the number of repetitions, the resistance, and even the rate at which the exercise is performed. By storing and transferring this information to a pre-programmed routine, the performance and capabilities of the user “U” can be monitored and the workout routine may be adjusted based upon the performance of the user “U.” - The present invention thus provides a variable-resistance,
portable exercise device 10 that may be used by a wide variety of people in a number of different locations in conjunction with a pre-programmed workout routine stored in memory in a computer device.Exercise device 10 is suitable for use by users “U” of all ages and capabilities and, likewise, may be used by the elderly and infirmed who are limited to a wheelchair or a bed. - The foregoing description is a specific embodiment of the present invention. It should be appreciated that this embodiment is described for purposes of illustration only, and that numerous alterations and modifications may be practiced by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is intended that all such modifications and alterations be included insofar as they come within the scope of the invention as claimed or the equivalents thereof.
Claims (15)
1. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device comprised of:
a retractable cable connected to a spring assembly, the spring assembly having a plurality of springs that are selectively connectable to each other to vary the resistance exerted on the cable.
2. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 1 , wherein said retractable cable is wound onto a rotatable spool.
3. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 2 , wherein said spool is connected to said plurality of springs.
4. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 3 , wherein each of said plurality of springs is a coiled spring having an inner end connected to said spool to be rotatable therewith.
5. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 4 , further comprising a device selectively connectable to the outer end of each of said plurality of springs.
6. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 1 , further comprising a housing containing said spring assembly and rotatable spool, said retractable cable being attached to said spool and being wound onto and unwound from said spool based on rotation of said spool.
7. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 6 , further comprising a mounting bracket for attaching said exercise device to an external support.
8. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 8 , further comprising sensors associated with said spool and said cable for monitoring movement of said spool and said cable.
9. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 8 , further comprising a controller within said housing connected to said sensor.
10. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 9 , further comprising sensing means for sensing the resistance exerted on said cable, said sensing means connected to said controller.
11. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 10 , further comprising memory means for storing information sensed by said sensors.
12. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 11 , further comprising a power supply within said housing for providing power to said controller, memory means and said sensors.
13. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 12 , wherein said power supply is rechargeable.
14. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 12 , wherein said housing includes a communications interface port.
15. A portable, variable-resistance exercise device as defined in claim 12 , further comprising a display panel for displaying information from said controller, and input means for controlling the operation of said controller and inputting information into said controller.
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US13/074,239 US20110237407A1 (en) | 2010-03-29 | 2011-03-29 | Variable-resistance exercise device |
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US31843210P | 2010-03-29 | 2010-03-29 | |
US13/074,239 US20110237407A1 (en) | 2010-03-29 | 2011-03-29 | Variable-resistance exercise device |
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US20110237407A1 true US20110237407A1 (en) | 2011-09-29 |
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US13/074,239 Abandoned US20110237407A1 (en) | 2010-03-29 | 2011-03-29 | Variable-resistance exercise device |
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Cited By (21)
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US9320936B1 (en) * | 2013-07-16 | 2016-04-26 | Christopher Rea | Selectively adjustable, portable exercise system |
US20170157451A1 (en) * | 2011-10-06 | 2017-06-08 | David Kabasso | Bed Exercise Apparatus |
US20170340918A1 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2017-11-30 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and Linear Resistance Force Exercise Apparatus |
US20180361200A1 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2018-12-20 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and Linear Resistance Force Exercise Apparatus |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
WO2019067619A1 (en) * | 2017-09-29 | 2019-04-04 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US20190118022A1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2019-04-25 | Marcus Carter | Gym cage |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US20220203202A1 (en) * | 2020-12-29 | 2022-06-30 | Kacie Short | Portable Exercise Resistance Device |
US11389694B1 (en) | 2015-03-27 | 2022-07-19 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US11446191B2 (en) | 2019-04-19 | 2022-09-20 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Patient bed having exercise therapy apparatus |
US11458346B1 (en) * | 2022-01-05 | 2022-10-04 | Strength Technology LLC | Portable and variable exercise device |
US20230330474A1 (en) * | 2022-04-14 | 2023-10-19 | Kristopher M. Brown | Apparatus for providing suspension and resistance training |
US11819725B2 (en) | 2018-03-26 | 2023-11-21 | David Kabasso | Bed exercise apparatus |
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US10780312B2 (en) * | 2011-10-06 | 2020-09-22 | David Kabasso | Bed exercise apparatus |
US20170157451A1 (en) * | 2011-10-06 | 2017-06-08 | David Kabasso | Bed Exercise Apparatus |
US20190054340A1 (en) * | 2011-10-06 | 2019-02-21 | David Kabasso | Bed Exercise Apparatus |
US10166432B2 (en) * | 2011-10-06 | 2019-01-01 | David Kabasso | Bed exercise apparatus |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US9320936B1 (en) * | 2013-07-16 | 2016-04-26 | Christopher Rea | Selectively adjustable, portable exercise system |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US20180361200A1 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2018-12-20 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and Linear Resistance Force Exercise Apparatus |
US10549152B2 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2020-02-04 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US20170340918A1 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2017-11-30 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and Linear Resistance Force Exercise Apparatus |
US10737139B2 (en) * | 2015-03-27 | 2020-08-11 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US11389694B1 (en) | 2015-03-27 | 2022-07-19 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US20190118022A1 (en) * | 2015-09-02 | 2019-04-25 | Marcus Carter | Gym cage |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
WO2019067619A1 (en) * | 2017-09-29 | 2019-04-04 | Aaron Joseph Walker | Rotational and linear resistance force exercise apparatus |
US11819725B2 (en) | 2018-03-26 | 2023-11-21 | David Kabasso | Bed exercise apparatus |
US11446191B2 (en) | 2019-04-19 | 2022-09-20 | Hill-Rom Services, Inc. | Patient bed having exercise therapy apparatus |
US20220203202A1 (en) * | 2020-12-29 | 2022-06-30 | Kacie Short | Portable Exercise Resistance Device |
US11458346B1 (en) * | 2022-01-05 | 2022-10-04 | Strength Technology LLC | Portable and variable exercise device |
US20230330474A1 (en) * | 2022-04-14 | 2023-10-19 | Kristopher M. Brown | Apparatus for providing suspension and resistance training |
US11850465B2 (en) * | 2022-04-14 | 2023-12-26 | Kristopher M. Brown | Apparatus for providing suspension and resistance training |
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