Abstract: A self-spotting apparatus for free-weights [101] provides two cable assemblies [107A, 107B] with one end of each cable assembly attached to a free-weight assembly [115] and the opposite end attached to respective linear weight-support assemblies [123A, 123B] via respective weight-responsive engagement blocks [125A, 125B]. Guide rods [127A, 127B] allow vertical motion of the engagement blocks and maintain engagement orientation relative to the support assemblies. The engagement blocks engage the respective support assemblies for static support of the free-weight assembly. Lifting of the substantial weight of the free-weight assembly and activation of disengagement bias is required to disengage the engagement blocks from the respective support assemblies to allow free motion of the free-weight assembly. The apparatus provides self-spotting for barbells [115] and dumbbells [247A].

Abstract: A barbell and dumbbell safety spotting apparatus [30] comprises a frame [32], two booms [54] pivotally mounted to and supported by the frame, two cables [72] extending from the booms, two reciprocating drives [96] operably connected to the cables and a clutch [116] operably connected to the reciprocating drives to provide independent reciprocating movement of the cables. The cables are connectable to a free-weight assembly comprising a barbell assembly [22] or dumbbell assembly [26] to provide reciprocating vertical movement of the weight assembly in a free-weight fashion. The free-weight assembly comprises at least one hand switch [88] for engaging and disengaging the freeweight assembly from the reciprocating drives.

Abstract: Interlock apparatus for fitness equipment comprises a microprocessor 105 receiving grip signal inputs from grip sensors (101A, 101B) mounted on a load-bearing component of the fitness equipment. Signal conditioners (103A, 103B) provide noise filtering, signal debouncing and digital inputs for the microprocessor. Grips status monitors (106A, 106B) provide grip status signals used by microprocessor 105 to determine the validity of the grip signals. Microprocessor 105 provides validity criteria which changes depending on the grip status inputs. The apparatus detects sensor connection changes and abnormal sensor and circuit operation and modifies logic functions to improve the capability and reliability of safety locks and brakes on the equipment.

Abstract: A barbell and dumbbell safety spotting apparatus [30] comprises a frame [32], two booms [54] pivotally mounted to and supported by the frame, two cables [72] extending from the booms, two reciprocating drives [96] operably connected to the cables and a clutch [116] operably connected to the reciprocating drives to provide independent reciprocating movement of the cables. The cables are connectable to a barbell assembly [22] or dumbbell assembly [26] to provide reciprocating vertical movement of the weight assembly in a free-weight fashion.

Abstract: A self-spotting apparatus for free-weights [101] provides two cable assemblies [107A, 107B] with one end of each cable assembly attached to a free-weight assembly [115] and the opposite end attached to respective linear weight-support assemblies [123A, 123B] via respective weight-responsive engagement blocks [125A, 125B]. Guide rods [127A, 127B] allow vertical motion of the engagement blocks and maintain engagement orientation relative to the support assemblies. The engagement blocks engage the respective support assemblies for static support of the free-weight assembly. Lifting of the substantial weight of the free-weight assembly and activation of disengagement bias is required to disengage the engagement blocks from the respective support assemblies to allow free motion of the free-weight assembly. The apparatus provides self-spotting for barbells [115] and dumbbells [247A].

Abstract: A self-spotting apparatus for free-weights (101) provides two cable assemblies (107A, 107B) with one end of each cable assembly attached to a free-weight assembly (115) and the opposite end attached to respective linear weight-support assemblies (123A, 123B) via respective weight-responsive engagement blocks (125A, 125B). Guide rods (127A, 127B) allow vertical motion of the engagement blocks and maintain engagement orientation relative to the support assemblies. The engagement blocks engage the respective support assemblies for static support of the free-weight assembly. Lifting of the substantial weight of the free-weight assembly and activation of disengagement bias is required to disengage the engagement blocks from the respective support assemblies to allow free motion of the free-weight assembly. The apparatus provides self-spotting for barbells (115) and dumbbells (247A).