Patents Examined by Oren Ginsberg
  • Body weight support system for therapeutic and physical training, and method of use thereof
    Patent number: 9370680
    Abstract: A body weight support system for use with an exercise machine, the body weight support system comprising a frame assembly, a biasing cord connectable that is suspendable from the frame assembly, and a harness mechanism connectable to the biasing cord and wearable by a user to generate a lifting force that extends through a femoral head axis of motion of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Lightspeed Running & Rehabilitation Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Malcolm R. Macaulay, Vernon R. Johnsen, Daniel J. Stein
  • Waist twisting station
    Patent number: 9364700
    Abstract: A waist twisting station includes a base, a rotating unit for waist twisting, and at least one spring to generate resistance force. The rotating unit has a hoop linked with a spring, which can be pushed away by user's body movement. The inside layer of the hoop has a row of massage balls so that the body movement can exercise the waist and lags as well as receive body massage at the same time to accelerate calorie burning. In addition to the waist twisting hoop, a handle bar with or without spring connected to the base can give user a unique whole body exercise experience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Hui Yan
  • Fuzzy logic-based evaluation and feedback of exercise performance
    Patent number: 9364714
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are techniques and systems for evaluating exercise performance of a user of a fitness system by utilizing one or more intelligent sensors, including at least one camera-based sensor configured to detect image data of the user. The fitness system may include a stationary exercise device, a memory to store personal information about a user, and a processor to generate a set of exercise rules based, at least in part, on the personal information about the user. The fitness system may also include one or more sensors to monitor a physical state of the user, and a fuzzy system to generate an evaluation for the user based, at least in part, on i) the set of rules and ii) output from the one or more sensors. The fitness system may thereby provide real-time, constructive feedback regarding the user's exercise performance based on the sensed data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Zsolutionz, LLC
    Inventors: Sunil Koduri, John Michael Hand, Surendra P. S. Bhatia, Bobby Joe Adams, John W. Ransone, Shalini Koduri
  • Lower body mimetic exercise device with fully or partially autonomous right and left leg links and ergonomically positioned pivot points
    Patent number: 9364708
    Abstract: An exercise device having (—) a frame, (—) left and right leg linkages, each including (i) an upper leg member pivotally coupled to the frame for pivoting about an upper pivot point, (ii) a lower leg member directly pivotally coupled to the upper leg member distal to the upper pivot point for pivoting about a lower pivot point, and (—) a foot support attached to each lower leg member distal to each respective lower pivot point. The invention characterized by a biased damping means in communication with each lower leg member via an interconnect member that defines an influence line segment, and an ergonomically synergistic spatial relationship between the influence line segment and a leg line segment defined by the upper pivot point and the lower pivot on each leg linkage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Octane Fitness, LLC
    Inventors: Nathan R. Luger, Thomas C. Coy, Mark R. Nestande, Daniel C. Boyles, Charles J. Rosenow
  • Compact portable leg exercise machine
    Patent number: 9364709
    Abstract: A compact portable leg exercise apparatus includes a top platform, a base member, a resilient member and a frame assembly interposed between the top platform and base member. The apparatus is sized to receive a foot onto the top platform to move the top platform relative to the base member and against a force provided by the resilient member as the apparatus is moved to the collapsed position. The apparatus is sized to fit in carryon luggage, handbag, backpack or be hand-carried, allowing for its use anywhere. The frame assembly aligns the top platform and base member and inhibits twisting motion of the top platform relative to the base member, thereby constraining the motion of travel for the apparatus. The frame assembly can include a plurality of hinged leaf pairs shaped to inhibit generation of noise by the frame assembly as it moves to the collapsed configuration during use of the exercise apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventors: Ying Y. Butler, John W. Butler
  • Multi-grip exercise weight apparatus
    Patent number: 9364703
    Abstract: A multi-grip exercise weight apparatus includes a weight plate pivotally attached to a bar handle such that the weight plate is pivotable in both angular directions. A grip ring is disposed around the perimeter of the weight plate. A plurality of support spokes extend from a central hub on the weight plate radially outwardly to the grip ring. A plurality of different grip regions are defined on the grip ring between adjacent support spokes. An end handle may be attached to the weight plate to provide a looped kettlebell-type grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Move Strong Functional Fitness Equipment, LLC
    Inventor: Jared Kuka
  • Method and apparatus for an exercise support device
    Patent number: 9364735
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods that assist a user in utilizing an exercise machine. An exercise support device enables a user to exercise without having to hold on to the exercise machine while exercising. The exercise support device has a belt that can be worn by a user. In embodiments, the belt is connected to arm assemblies, which can be coupled to the side rails of an exercise machine. The exercise support device provides balance for a user of an exercise machine, which can enhance the quality of a user's exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Lawrence Beane
  • Exercise device
    Patent number: 9364702
    Abstract: An example apparatus for a user in a wheelchair includes an exercise device providing an exercise area configured to receive a wheelchair. A primary handle is moveable by a first user in the wheelchair from a first position to a second position. A resistance assembly opposes movement of the at least one primary handle. A spotter handle is coupled to move together with the at least one primary handle. The spotter handle accessible by a second user from a position outside the exercise area. An example exercise device for a user in a wheelchair includes an automatically adjustable pick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Rogers Athletic Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Edward Staten, Tyler James Hobson, Brian Lesley Staten, Kyle R. Camp
  • Multi-grip exercise weight apparatus
    Patent number: 9364704
    Abstract: A multi-grip exercise weight apparatus includes a weight plate pivotally attached to a bar handle such that the weight plate is pivotable in both angular directions. A grip ring is disposed around the perimeter of the weight plate. A plurality of support spokes extend from a central hub on the weight plate radially outwardly to the grip ring. A plurality of different grip regions are defined on the grip ring between adjacent support spokes. An end handle, or kettlebell handle, may be attached to the weight plate to provide a looped kettlebell-type grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Move Strong Functional Fitness Equipment, LLC
    Inventor: Jared Kuka
  • Portable speed bag retention mechanism
    Patent number: 9358441
    Abstract: A portable exercise apparatus retention mechanism with a base platform, an exercise apparatus retainer, and at least one extendible and retractable retaining structure fixed to the base platform with first and second end portions for engaging first and second opposed surfaces when at least one of the end portions is extended. A sub-panel can be secured to the base structure with a central portion of the retaining structure disposed therebetween. The retention mechanism can retain an exercise apparatus, such as a speed bag. The end portions can have contoured flanges. A supplementary engaging mechanism with extended and retracted positions can project laterally from the base platform. The supplementary engaging mechanism could comprise first and second members pivotally coupled to the base platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher Rea, James Wickstead, James Graham
  • Apparatus and method for muscle movement training
    Patent number: 9358413
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for motion and muscle training are disclosed. An apparatus includes a first retractor device, a second retractor device and a body gear unit for engaging a human. The body gear unit is attached to the first retractor device and the second retractor device. The first retractor device and the second retractor device each provide a constant non-variable load and constant resistance in opposite directions. A method includes attaching a body gear unit to a body, attaching first and second retractor devices to the body gear unit, and performing at least one movement using the body gear unit. The at least one movement is performed in a direction that is opposite to a direction of resistance of the first retractor device. A direction of resistance of the second retractor device is opposite to the direction of resistance of the first retractor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Core Restore LLC
    Inventor: Christopher Verdi
  • Rotator cuff therapy device
    Patent number: 9358414
    Abstract: A rotator cuff therapy device assists a user in accomplishing orbital motion of the user's arm to provide a therapeutic effect that strengthens and rehabilitates the arms, shoulders, and related joints and tissues. The device may be adjustable so that an unevenly-weighted rotatable portion can be moved along a desired path with varying speed and effort according to a pre-selected friction setting, and while being held in different positions relative to the user's body. This allows the device to be used by people with varying degrees of dexterity, strength, or injury, while targeting different tissues for therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Link A. Dephouse
  • In-ground trampoline pad system
    Patent number: 9358412
    Abstract: An in-ground trampoline including a frame, trampoline mat, a plurality of springs and a protective pad. The protective pad incorporates a permeable material to allow for the passage of air through the protective pad. The in-ground trampoline system may also include a retaining wall which may comprise self-locking panels. In some embodiments, the self-locking panels may be attached to the frame of the in-ground trampoline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventors: R. Kyle Nelson, Tracy Burnham
  • Leg-powered treadmill
    Patent number: 9352188
    Abstract: A motor-less leg-powered curved treadmill produced that allows people to walk, jog, run, and sprint without making any adjustments to the treadmill other than shifting the user's center of gravity forward and backwards. A closed loop treadmill belt running between front and rear pulley rollers is formed with a low friction running surface of transverse wooden, plastic or rubber slats attached to each other in a resilient fashion. Since an essential feature of treadmill is the concave shape of the running surface of belt in its respective upper portion, to insure that this shape is maintained during actual use. This prevents the lower portion of the treadmill belt from drooping down (i.e., it must be held taut), to prevent the concave top portion to be pulled taut into a flat shape between the front and rear pulley rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Alex Astilean
  • Variable weight medicine ball
    Patent number: 9352180
    Abstract: Apparatuses and systems for a variable weight medicine ball are disclosed. The ball may comprise an outer shell, an interior, and a radius, and an opening forming a portion of the outer shell that provides access to the interior. The ball may also comprise at least one exercise weight cavity in the interior configured to receive one or more exercise weights and a filling material disposed in the interior, between the plurality of weight cavities and the outer shell. The ball may further comprise one or more balance weights that are different from the exercise weights fixedly disposed within the filling material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: GPRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventor: Gary E. Pawlas
  • Treadmill with selectively engageable deck stiffening mechanism
    Patent number: 9352186
    Abstract: A treadmill includes an impact absorption mechanism operatively positioned at least in part between a deck and a base frame of the treadmill so that the impact absorption mechanism enables the deck to move relative to at least a portion of the base frame during impact events on the deck and a selectively engageable deck stiffening mechanism that reduces the amount of movement of at least a portion of the deck relative to the base frame during impact events on the deck. The deck stiffening mechanism includes one or more generally rigid members and an engaging mechanism. The engaging mechanism selectively engages the one or more generally rigid members with the deck to provide support to the deck during impact events on the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott R. Watterson
  • Bicycle-mounted exercise apparatus
    Patent number: 9352183
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for mounting exercise equipment onto handlebars of a bicycle. A hand grip device is supported by a T-shaped support member and is detachably secured with a mounting device, which is formed as a two-part clamp. The support member has elongated openings, through which the lever ends of the hand grip extend. A ball joint at the end of the support member is engaged in one of the clamp openings, while the second opening in the clamp member allows detachable engagement of the mounting member with the handlebar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Scott Quinn
  • Hinge or the like for folding rebounder
    Patent number: 9345919
    Abstract: A portable exercise system has a foldable perimeter frame comprising at least two elongated frame members that are joined by hinges. The hinges are joined to ends of the frame members, which ends are generally tubular. Each hinge has a cap-like body having an interior surface that defines a cavity configured to nestingly receive one of the ends of the frame members. A deformable plug is located within the central cavity of the one of the ends. A tightening mechanism is operated to expand the plug radially and thereby cause the end to expand radially such the generally tubular outer surface of the end frictionally engages the interior surface of the a cap-like body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: JumpSport, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Publicover, Jon P. Hylbert, Kevin B. Charles
  • Device for strengthening pelvic floor musculature in women
    Patent number: 9345928
    Abstract: A hinged vaginal strengthening device has three points of resistance along its length, which correspond with the three layers of pelvic musculature. The device is inserted into a vagina and compressed by the pelvic floor musculature, in accordance with various regimens to achieve goals such as decreasing vaginal gap or overcoming painful intercourse. The device can be of various dimensions, and various compression resiliencies thereby allowing a user to progress through multiple steps to achieve their goal of increasing or decreasing their vaginal space, as well as increasing muscle tone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Inventor: Peter A Philip
  • Feet stretching device capable of dynamically adjusting stretching angle upon user demand
    Patent number: 9345927
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a feet stretching device, which includes a base placed on the ground; an extendable rod having an end fixed at a front edge of the base and the other end extended upward; a control device having a control panel fixed at the other end of the extendable rod, two control handles disposed at two sides of the control panel for being held by user's hands, and a control circuit for generating different output signals selected by the user; and a driving mechanism having an end pivotally linked with the base at a position near a back edge of the base and the other end movably and reciprocatingly mounted on a support plate, so as to dynamically kept the angle between the support plate and the base according to the output signal for performing a stretching exercise on user's feet standing on the support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: SOLID FOCUS INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shu-Wei Chang