Abstract: A device which promotes concentric muscle development by automatically rendering assistance to a weightlifter who is experiencing muscle fatigue. The device contains a motor driven cable which can be connected to either a barbell or dumbbells. The device does not affect the weightlifter when not activated, and is activated when the weightlifter lifts the weight slower than a pre-programmed velocity limit. In addition the device functions as a safety apparatus in that it slows the downward travel of a weight which has exceeded a pre-programmed velocity limit.

Abstract: A microprogram controller, in a microcomputer system used as an address sequencer intended for controlling the sequence of execution of microinstructions in a microprogram memory, is presented. The microprogram controller includes architecture that provides the capability to asynchronously receive indications of an event, break from the microinstruction sequence in response, branch to control of subroutine consisting of a predetermined microinstruction sequence directed to responding to the event, and returning to the interrupted sequence upon completion of the subroutine.