Swimming Patents (Class 482/55)
  • Patent number: 6960086
    Abstract: A swim training apparatus has been designed to help swimmers of any age or any type of experience by teaching the right swimming techniques, correcting their swimming bad habits, and enhancing their swimming capabilities. The apparatus is destined to be used under water in a swimming pool or in a natural basin of water and it consists of a plurality of under water steps which are equipped with reference markers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Jean-François Bergeron
  • Patent number: 6955633
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.
    Inventor: Tadlington A. Stout
  • Patent number: 6955577
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a drag-inducing kickboard. The kickboard has an undersurface. A funnel member projects from the undersurface and comprises at least one inner surface that is spaced apart from the undersurface to form a channel between the at least one inner surface of the funnel member and the undersurface of the kickboard. The funnel member is shaped to provide the channel with a front opening for allowing water into the channel and a rear opening for allowing water to escape from the channel. The front opening has a cross-sectional area that is greater than that of the rear opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Stephen J. Hall
  • Patent number: 6913505
    Abstract: A sinkable fun toy includes a floater body and a counter weight member. The floater body includes a receiving portion, which has a receiving opening and a stand portion, which has at least one leg for supporting the receiving portion. The counter weight member is received in the receiving opening of the receiving portion. The first and second engaging portions are formed between the receiving portion and the counter weight member and being engaged with each other. After assembled, the floater body and counter weight member being sinkable, sink in water, the receiving portion is kept a desired height from the ground of water by the stand portion. Wherein the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are disengaged through pressing the counter weight member, the floater body floats on the water but the counter weight member remains in water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Herman Chiang
  • Patent number: 6905444
    Abstract: A device for allowing a swimmer to exercise in a pool while remaining approximately in place. The device includes an adjustable belt which fits around the swimmer's waist. An elastic harness connects this belt to an anchor bracket which is fixed to the side of the pool. The harness elastically deforms as the user exerts greater swimming force, thereby indicating to the user his or her level of exertion. The anchor bracket in configured to attach to a pool incorporating a skim gutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Curtis A. Milton
  • Patent number: 6887186
    Abstract: A flotation device for water aerobics comprising a single piece of foam shaped to form a main central member having positive buoyancy and a pair of float arms having positive buoyancy. Each float arm terminates in a handle, and the foam arms of the device attached to the main central member may bend flexibly according to the motion of a user's arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Melina Bambanian
  • Patent number: 6866615
    Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for teaching and/or improving upon the mechanics of the whip kick that may be used while performing the breaststroke and training the competitive breaststroker. The tool includes a fin that is configured to receive a swimmer's foot and a propulsive blade that engages the water at the beginning of the propulsive phase of the kick, such as when the swimmer's legs have reached maximum flexion at the knees, with feet positioned slightly wider than the knees, heels turned in while the toes are turned out and ankles flexed. As the swimmer initiates the power phase of the kick, the propulsive blade achieves maximum purchase of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: David E. Ryland
  • Publication number: 20040204297
    Abstract: The Acquaciser resembles a small rucksack or back pack, or perhaps an old-fashioned school satchel, with padded shoulder straps which fasten to the user's size and comfort with Velcro. It is made of highly buoyant material, and incidentally is brightly coloured. On each shoulder strap there is a grab-handle which allows the user to increase the effort required to perform exercises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: David Nicholas Symons
  • Patent number: 6758792
    Abstract: A waist-twisting machine includes a post, a fixing base, a moving mechanism, a hoop body and a hull. The fixing base is movably combined with the post to move up and down, and the moving mechanism is deposited in the fixing base, consisting of a power source to rotate a gear unit, which then rotates two rotating arms connected with an interacting arm to make a horizontal movement in a circle as a hula hoop does. The hoop body is connected with the interactive arm to be moved in the same track as the interactive arm, with numerous massage rollers fixed on an inner surface of the hoop body. Then a user standing in the hoop body can be compelled to move together with the hoop body, with the waist thus twisted and massaged at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Yi Chang
  • Publication number: 20040116256
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device includes a handle connected to a dome-shaped bell where an angle between the handle axis and the bell axis is not ninety degrees. The bell axis extends from an apex opposite an opening of the dome-shaped bell through a center of the opening. The aquatic exercise device is configured to provide an omni-directional and omni-rotational resistance to movement in water and may include a plurality of fins arranged on an outer surface of the dome-shaped bell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Publication number: 20040097342
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device (100) includes a cuff strap (102) for fastening a plurality of fins (106) to a user's leg. The cuff strap (102) is configured to position the plurality of fins (102) to extend outwardly form an interior of the cuff strap (102) when the cuff strap (102) is fastened to an ankle area of the user's leg. The plurality of fins (106) provide resistance in a direction opposite to the direction of motion of the user's foot when the aquatic exercise device (100) is moved through water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Tadlington A. Stout, James P. Cleary
  • Patent number: 6712741
    Abstract: An exercise device for use in water is made of a buoyant material and can support a user positioned in a body of water. Two opposed end portions are connected by a narrowed central portion that is dimensioned to fit between the upper leg portions of the user. In use, the user places the central portion between the legs, causing the end portions to be buoyed upward and enveloping the user's trunk. Positioned thus, the user is supported in an upright position with the limbs free to move, which is suitable for performing an exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: H. Clayton McDonald
  • Publication number: 20040053749
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Tadlington A. Stout
  • Patent number: 6672993
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.
    Inventor: Tadlington A. Stout
  • Patent number: 6634993
    Abstract: A swimmer's restraining device to facilitate water exercising by a swimmer in a confined swimming location. The device comprises a flexible tethering cord to be attached to a fixed location on or about the swimming location, a flotation member, and a pair of fixed lines, each secured at one end to the tethering cord with the opposite ends attached to the soles of the swimmer's wading shoes. This device frees the swimmer's arms and legs for full exercising movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: James J. Morr
  • Publication number: 20030162635
    Abstract: A device for allowing a swimmer to exercise in a pool while remaining approximately in place. The device includes an adjustable belt which fits around the swimmer's waist. An elastic harness connects this belt to an anchor bracket which is fixed to the side of the pool. The harness elastically deforms as the user exerts greater swimming force, thereby indicating to the user his or her level of exertion. The anchor bracket in configured to attach to a pool incorporating a skim gutter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Curtis A. Milton
  • Publication number: 20030148855
    Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for teaching and/or improving upon the mechanics of the whip kick that may be used while performing the breaststroke and training the competitive breaststroker. The tool includes a fin that is configured to receive a swimmer's foot and a propulsive blade that engages the water at the beginning of the propulsive phase of the kick, such as when the swimmer's legs have reached maximum flexion at the knees, with feet positioned slightly wider than the knees, heels turned in while the toes are turned out and ankles flexed. As the swimmer initiates the power phase of the kick, the propulsive blade achieves maximum purchase of the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: David E. Ryland
  • Publication number: 20030100411
    Abstract: Systems and techniques to mount equipment in a watertight fashion to a wall. A watertight mount includes a mounting base including a flange and a socket having an interior surface including mating threads. The mount may include a base plate coupled with the mounting base, the base plate defining an opening through which the socket passes. The mount may also include a gasket coupled between the base plate and the mounting base, the gasket defining an opening through which the socket passes, and the base plate may be releasably coupled with the mounting base through a spa wall. The base plate may be coupled with the mounting base using a connector, such as a nut defining a threaded hole that matches securing threads on an exterior surface of a barrel shaped socket in the mounting base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventors: Victor Lee Walker, Angelo Vito Pugliese, James Donald McClure
  • Patent number: 6540647
    Abstract: A water rehabilitation device for rehabilitating injuries and facilitating physical exercise. The water rehabilitation device includes a platform, a foot restraint attached to the platform, a first side wing pivotally attached to the platform, a second side wing pivotally attached to the platform opposite of the first side wing, a first end wing pivotally attached to the platform between the first side wing and the second side wing, and a second end wing opposite of the first end wing. During downward movement within water the wings are extended outwardly thereby creating an increased surface area effectively increasing the resistance to the downward movement. During upward movement within water the wings are folded downwardly providing an aerodynamic structure for providing reduced resistance to the upward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventors: Robert J. Spooner, Douglas A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030051677
    Abstract: An animal hydrotherapy pool is described comprising a container for water having nozzle means in a wall of the container directing in use one or more jets of water into the water in the container. An extension to a wall of the container forms a housing in which is located pump means adapted to re-circulate water to and from the container via the nozzle means. Pump control means is also located in the housing thereby to be accessible in use to a person controlling an animal using the pool. A second pump draws water from near the surface of the water in the pool through a skimmer, and returns the water to the pool via a water treatment path. The latter comprises a heater, a sand filter, and an ozonator, and as described, all the water treatment devices are incorporated in the housing extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Bradley Russell Smith, Catherine Elizabeth Smith
  • Patent number: 6520893
    Abstract: An inflatable exercise belt (20) for placement around the abdomen of a user includes a substantially belt-shaped body (22) having a first end portion (24) and an opposite second end portion (26). A selectively inflatable air chamber (32) is disposed at first end portion (24). Backing (36) is disposed adjacent to the inflatable air chamber (32), so that when the inflatable air chamber (32) is inflated, the inflatable air chamber (32) expands in a direction away from backing (36) thereby exerting pressure on the abdomen of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Inventor: Craig A. Bray
  • Publication number: 20030008752
    Abstract: A stationary bicycle includes a machine base, a seat on the machine base for the sitting of the user, a back cushion mounted on the machine base and adapted to support the back of the user sitting on the seat, a pedal and damper unit installed in the machine base and adapted to impart a damping power against the external force employed by the user through the legs, and a rack mounted on the machine base in front of the seat and adapted to hold, for example, a computer for operation by the user when exercising.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2001
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: Hank Hsu
  • Publication number: 20020132708
    Abstract: A water rehabilitation device for rehabilitating injuries and facilitating physical exercise. The water rehabilitation device includes a platform, a foot restraint attached to the platform, a first side wing pivotally attached to the platform, a second side wing pivotally attached to the platform opposite of the first side wing, a first end wing pivotally attached to the platform between the first side wing and the second side wing, and a second end wing opposite of the first end wing. During downward movement within water the wings are extended outwardly thereby creating an increased surface area effectively increasing the resistance to the downward movement. During upward movement within water the wings are folded downwardly providing an aerodynamic structure for providing reduced resistance to the upward movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventors: Robert J. Spooner, Douglas A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020098952
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Tadlington A. Stout
  • Patent number: 6364814
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device and method therefor dimensioned to be retained between a person's thighs while swimming. By swimming with the aquatic exercise device in between a swimmer's thighs, a swimmer is able to contract his or her leg muscles against both a horizontal as well as vertical form of resistance. Through this method, the aquatic exercise device enables a swimmer to more fully build leg strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Don D. Linton
  • Patent number: 6342031
    Abstract: Exercise devices in the form of gaiters and gloves for use during exercising in water, particularly in “deep water” with the user in generally vertical orientation. The devices are form fitting, resilient so as to preclude inadvertent injury during use, and adaptable for use by young and old, the physically fit, the lame or somewhat infirmed. When not in use, the devices are generally oval in cross-section. During use the devices conform to the user's arms and/or legs and provide a snug fit for precluding or minimizing slipping and misadjustment and provide a buoyant force on the order of two to ten pounds, more or less; a force of approximately three to six pounds is about right for a young adult lady.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Inventor: Stephanie R. Vaughan
  • Patent number: 6328677
    Abstract: A small machine that can be removably mounted on a wall and may be used while sitting or standing to provide aerobic exercise without requiring the use of the legs. The machine simulates the action of a kayak by using an alternating power strokes from the arms, with an inertial component and adjustable retarding forces created by frictional and various speed-dependent mechanisms. A unidirectionally-rotating flywheel simulates the mass of the kayak plus operator, while friction pads, an eddy current generator and air vanes operating on the flywheel provide additional retarding forces. Various ways to grip the ends of the cord are provided, including individual hand grips and a single long shaft with or without paddles at either end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Raoul East Drapeau
  • Publication number: 20010046928
    Abstract: A variable resistance exercise device is used by swimmers to hold them in place while swimming and to give the swimmer progressive resistance during the swim. The device is also usable on land and has a housing with an upper pulley and a lower pulley as well as an upper roller and a lower roller. A tension cord is attached to a shaft, the working length of the cord being changeable, and passes over the upper roller and the lower pulley while a rope is attached to the cord and passes over the upper pulley and has an attachment hook on its end for attaching to a swimmer or an exercise accessory. The attachment hook can also be attached to a lower rope that passes over the lower roller and has a hook on its end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Terry Van Nette
  • Patent number: 6306108
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Brian R. Butler
  • Patent number: 6251049
    Abstract: A device for maintaining a relatively fixed position of a person exercising in a pool. The device uses a flexible rod which deforms elastically as the swimmer exercises. In this fashion, the swimmer is given feedback as to how strenuously he or she is exercising. The device can be anchored to a conventional pool ladder. In addition, for those pools without a ladder, a separate anchor frame is disclosed. The anchor frame allows the device to be used in virtually any pool. It also allows the device to be used on a dock or on a boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Inventor: Curtis A. Milton
  • Patent number: 6179759
    Abstract: A portable and collapsible aquatic abdominal exercising apparatus for use in a pool is provided. The apparatus includes first and second downwardly extending parallel leg members, first and second arm-rest extensions and first and second pool-deck supports. Each of these elements can be provided with telescopic capabilities. A single support rod extends between the two leg members and additionally supports a back-rest. A pair of four-way coupling units work to attach all of the elements together. The legs can move freely along two axis adding to its portability and collapsibility. The device sits freely in a pool and supports the weight of a user as the user rests their back against the back-rest, positions their forearms on the arm-rest extensions, grasps a pair of hand grips and repetitively moves their body upwardly to strengthen the abdominal muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Richard A. Tellone
  • Patent number: 6176815
    Abstract: A swimming exercise and training apparatus having a flotation member constructed of a generally lightweight, semi-rigid, buoyant material and sized and shaped so that it may be positioned against a portion of a person's upper torso, a plurality of straps structured to removably secure the flotation member to the person's upper torso and a pair of cords structured to retain the flotation member, and consequently, the swimmer wearing the flotation member, substantially in place. Each cord includes a first end attached to the flotation member and an opposite second end attached to a suction cup or a stake member having a generally flat horizontal surface on its upper portion and a hook on its lower portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Leonardo Alberto Riera
  • Patent number: 6142912
    Abstract: A swim training apparatus which operates to correctly combine the various attributes of a correctly executed crawl or freestyle stroke is generally comprised of a table and a hand track system which combine to simulate the desired attributes of the properly executed stroke. Each arm is allowed to work as though it was progressing below the water's surface while the opposite arm recovers freely and completely, and unencumbered by any handles, levers, cables or other attachments, to practice high elbow recovery form. In addition, each arm is guided through a preset, yet adjustable path that replicates a properly executed crawl or freestyle stroke. This is accomplished while also allowing the user's torso to rotate to the significant degree necessary to simulate desired body rotation in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: John Profaci
  • Patent number: 6050925
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a substantially planar panel having a first major surface, a second major surface, first and second grips for receiving the hands of a user and at least one opening extending through the panel from the first major surface to the second major surface, and a shudder carried by the panel and movable between first and second positions for controlling the size of the opening for controlling the resistance to movement of the panel through a viscous fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventors: James E. Irvin, Richard J. Pickerel, Janet A. Martin
  • Patent number: 6033351
    Abstract: Aquatic abdominal exercise apparatus having a pair of parallel tubular arms connected together by a first connecting member mounted over a pool deck surface juxtaposed to an edge of a pool. The arms extend downwardly along a side edge of the pool and then turn inwardly to space the apparatus from the pool wall. A second connecting member connects the portion of the arms extending downwardly and a back support is mounted on the second connecting member. A pair of arm supports project outwardly from the portion of the arms extending downwardly to provide hand supports for the exerciser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventors: James A. Sizemore, III, Richard A. Tellone
  • Patent number: 6007461
    Abstract: An exercise device with compartment-housed weights sometimes used without all weights in place, adapted for use in a pool environment by a flap which is held in place over the compartments by "VELCRO" hook and loop fasteners so as to contribute to providing a hermetic seal so that there is nominal seepage of water into empty compartments as might inadvertently add to the weight used for exercise routines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Edith Winston
  • Patent number: 6001071
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Brian R. Butler
  • Patent number: 5984840
    Abstract: An exercising device which includes a cuff and a mitt usable separately or together. The cuff being a body of flexible material arranged with a central opening therethrough, and including an inner surface of an elastic material to be placed against the skin of a user, an outer surface of an elastic material, the inner and outer surfaces being joined but spaced apart to form a space. There is a flexible ballast material disposed in the space between the inner and outer surfaces and an elastic material. There is a separation disposed along the body, including a strong VELCRO strap, and a flexible attachment, and there is webbing of an elastic material disposed at the inner surface and outer surface as well as an O-ring attached to the outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventors: Brian J. Awbrey, Kipp K. Dye
  • Patent number: 5938565
    Abstract: An instructional, training, and assessment apparatus is provided for use in the activity of swimming. The apparatus includes a cable having a proximal end and a distal end, and a harness for coupling the distal end of the cable to a swimmer. The distal end of the cable is formed to include a short length of increased diameter. A motorized drum mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the cable for winding and unwinding the cable to apply forces to the swimmer as the swimmer swims laps in a body of water. A pressure roller applies pressure to the cable as it is wound and unwound in single layer upon the drum. A bailer sheave and idler roller engaged with the sheave and mounted on shafts transverse to the drum guide the cable loops in even rows onto the drum. A cable diameter limit sensor coupled to the bailer sheave and the motorized drum senses the increased diameter of the distal end of the cable and produces a corresponding output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Robert H. Bernacki
  • Patent number: 5916031
    Abstract: This invention is a slip resistant diving platform cover that can be easily installed or removed from a diving platform. The cover has a top mat laying in contact and covering a top plate of the diving platform, a front mat laying adjacent to a front plate of the diving platform, and a rear mat laying adjacent to a rear plate of the diving platform. These three mats are fastened to the diving platform by a U-shaped front clamp and a U-shaped rear clamp. Both clamps provide a screw means for engagement with the cover and the platform. The front clamp further provides a hinged leg bonded to an interior surface of the cover enabling permanent attachment thereto. The hinged leg preferably has a first portion that is attached to the top mat and a second portion which is attached to the front mat so that the front mat and the top mat may be rotated to an angle appropriate to conforming with the front and top plates of the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Ramoncito Casillan
  • Patent number: 5846167
    Abstract: A swimming exercising and training tether device includes an elongated tether line connected at one end preferably through a coil spring or other elastic, shock-absorbing member, to an anchor adjacent a wall of a swimming pool and at the opposite end detachably to the back panel of a harness worn by a swimmer. The attachment to the back panel is in the area intermediate the shoulders of the swimmer. Intermediate the ends of the tether line it extends freely through a loop or ring secured to the back panel of the harness in the area intermediate the hips of the swimmer. The loop or ring functions to raise the hips of the swimmer to the level promoting most efficient swimming posture in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Pacific Cornetta, Inc.
    Inventors: Yiu Ching Liu, Samuel O. Engels
  • Patent number: 5820526
    Abstract: An exercise glove for strapping weights (108) to a user's hand. The exercise glove may be used in water for swimming or on land for jogging or other exercise. A weight is inserted into a pocket (106) on a support (103) for placement on the backhand portion of the user's hand. The weight is removable from the pocket to permit variability of the amount of weight carried in proportion to desired muscle stress. The exercise glove may include a plurality of pockets for insertion of a plurality of weights. For use in swimming or other water sports the glove includes webbing (170) extending between form fitting finger sleeves (118), which cooperates with the weights (106) to provide improved training. The glove may also be formed with quick-removal loops (402) in place of or in addition to the webbing (170).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Excel Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Ned Hoffman
  • Patent number: 5820530
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise device includes two substantially identical flexible sheets of gas impermeable material. The sheets are sealed together to form at least two separate variably inflatable chambers having a safety valve disposed in each chamber to inflate, deflate or close the chamber. Four different embodiments of the aquatic exercise device, a cuff, a belt, a head gear and a flex device, may be used together or separately. The inflatable chambers of the aquatic exercise devices are adjusted individually to place substantially all patients in the optimal biomechanical positions while simultaneously preventing the undesirable migration of the device with respect to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Charles Kallassy
  • Patent number: 5816982
    Abstract: Stationary swimming exercises are conducted with a lightweight, compact and portable apparatus which includes a manually collapsible bag formed of flexible sheet material for containing a volume of water, and a tether line which has a rear portion connected to the bag and a forward portion which is connectable to a swimmer. To facilitate filling and draining, the bag has an elongated opening provided with an elongated closing member. According to the method, the bag is filled with pool water by a swimmer standing in the pool, the bag opening is closed, the bag is heaved onto the pool deck, the tether line is connected to the bag and the swimmer, and the swimmer conducts his or her stationary swimming exercises. After exercising, the bag is opened, drained and collapsed to form a lightweight, compact and portable unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Bruce J. Croushore
  • Patent number: 5813945
    Abstract: An instructional, training, and assessment apparatus is provided for use in the activity of swimming. The apparatus includes a cable having a proximal end and a distal end, and a harness for coupling the distal end of the cable to a swimmer. A motorized drum mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the cable for winding and unwinding the cable to apply forces to the swimmer as the swimmer swims laps in a pool. A pressure roller applies pressure to the cable as it is wound and unwound in multiple layers upon the drum. A bailer sheave and idler roller engaged with the sheave and mounted on shafts transverse to the drum guide the cable in even rows onto the drum. A cable diameter limit sensor coupled to the above described bailer sheave and the motorized drum senses the increased diameter of the distal end of the cable whereupon the motorized drum halts the winding action in response to the limit sensor signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Robert H. Bernacki
  • Patent number: 5766114
    Abstract: The present invention is an infant walking and swimming aid comprising a harness having at least one adjustable shoulder strap, a lower adjustable body belt, an upper adjustable body belt, at least one crotch strap, and a high back belt. The infant walking and swimming aid also includes at least one of (a) a crossbar having a first end, a second end and two attachment portions such that the crossbar is attachable to two adjustable suspending straps connectable between the crossbar and the harness; and (b) a first float attachable adjacent the high back belt and a second float attachable adjacent the lower adjustable body belt and the upper adjustable body belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Douglas O. Campbell
  • Patent number: 5766116
    Abstract: A hand held aquatic exercising device includes a handle and relatively moveable hydroresistive elements at respective ends of the handle. The hydroresistive elements can be moved to different positions relative to a longitudinal axis through the handle. In another embodiment the hydroresistive elements are selectively removable from the handle. The hydroresistive elements can be assembled in different relative positions with the handle. The handle is selectively solid or hollow. The device thereby presents a resistance to the water that can be varied according to the desires of the user. The hydroresistive elements may be cup-like and may be flexible to facilitate reversal about their bases. A hand gripping element facilitates rotation of the handle abcut the longitudinal axis while the gripping element is held in the palm of a user and the device is moved through water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Sanford S. Weissbuch
  • Patent number: 5697792
    Abstract: A training apparatus with a visual display for a swimmer. In a first aspect of the invention, an impeller mounted in a module worn by a swimmer is driven by a forward motion of the swimmer. A pair of permanent magnets mounted on opposite vanes of the impeller act on a magnetic field type transducer to produce a pulsating voltage which varies directly in frequency with the speed of the swimmer. The output of the sensor is processed and transmitted to a visual display worn by the swimmer. Changes in the visual display enable the swimmer to identify the effect of changes in the swimmer's form and/or movement on his performance. In a second aspect of the invention, a revolving magnet produces a pulsating voltage in a coil of wire. The output of the coil is processed and transmitted to a visual display worn by the swimmer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Eli M. Ladin
  • Patent number: 5662558
    Abstract: A portable device for generating water current in a swimming pool is disclosed. The purpose is to provide a current against which a person can swim, for exercise or for pleasure. The invention provides an anti-cavitation plate for the suppression of whirlpool currents and the smoothing out of the bulge and waves which normally occur downstream of the propeller and preferably also includes a multi-finned enclosure housing the motor and propeller and providing for the encouragement of the development of laminar flow in the stream exiting from the device for use by the swimmer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Byron T. Shannon, III
  • Patent number: 5658224
    Abstract: A swim paddle is attached by elastic loops to the palm of a swimmer's hand to increase hydrodynamic resistance. The paddle extends beyond the sides of the hand and is relieved on the thumb side so as to leave the two distal phalanges free to move. The paddle is relieved on the bottom edge so as to leave the wrist joint free to move. The paddle extends at the top edge only to the proximal phalanges of the fingers so that the distal two phalanges of the fingers and thumb are free to use while the paddle is in place on the hand. A discoidal weight is removably attachable to the paddle for enhanced training effect as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventor: Irving Betrock