Exercise machine with adjustable arms rotatable about three axes

Abstract

An exercise machine comprises a frame, a resistance element to provide resistance for performing exercise, a pair of arm assemblies connected to said resistance element and pivotally mounted to the frame so as to be rotatable about respective first axes to perform exercise. The first axes of exercise are rotatable about second axes to alter the respective orientation of the first axes of exercise. This will allow a selection of different travel paths for the arm assemblies, such as converging, diverging, or neutral movements. The second axes are rotatable about third axes wherein the orientation of the first axes of exercise can be further altered. This would allow the arm assemblies to be adjusted in towards each other or out further away from each other. The further out the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate travel path will be followed during exercise. The arm assemblies have a respective lever arm that can be angularly adjusted to perform pushing or pulling exercises. The resistance element is connected to the arm assemblies wherein a constant tension is maintained on the cable assembly, link assembly, or other means of connection, during adjustments of the preselected travel paths and adjustments of the desired positions of the arm assemblies. During exercise, the assembly connecting the resistance element with the arm assemblies will rotate and self-align to accommodate the preselected travel paths and preselected positions of the arm assemblies.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is being filed as a continuation-in-part (CIP) to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/346,528 filed Feb. 2, 2006, which is filed as a continuation-in-part (CIP) to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/254,576 filed Oct. 20, 2005, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Various types of exercise machines for strengthening and conditioning the body are known. One type of exercise machine, referred to herein as a weight machine, exercises the user's muscles by having the user push, pull, or otherwise move an exercise assembly that is connected to a resistance device, such as a stack of weights. The exercise machine may include one or more exercise assemblies, each designed to exercise a specific muscle group. Some exercise assemblies may be configured by the user to perform more than one exercise.

Common weight-lifting exercises include press and pull exercises. In press and pull exercises, the user pushes or pulls a pair of arms connected to a weight stack or other resistance device. The arms typically move along a fixed path that may converge or diverge during the exercise. There are a number of drawbacks with conventional press and pull exercise machines. In most prior press and pull exercise machines, the travel path of the arms is fixed. There are a number of reasons why a person may want to change the travel path of the arms. First, the user may want to adjust the arms to follow a path that is comfortable for the user. Second, the user may want to adjust the path of the arms to perform different exercises. Thus, there is a need for a press/pull-type exercise machine that enables the user to adjust the travel path of the arms.

Another drawback with conventional press and pull exercise machines is that press and pull exercises are typically performed at different machines or at different stations on a multi-station exercise machine. Having multiple machines or stations to perform both press and pull exercises increases the cost of the exercise equipment, as well as the space needed to house the exercise equipment. Thus, it would be desirable to perform both press and pull exercises at a single station on the same exercise machine.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a press/pull exercise machine with means to adjust the travel path of the arm assemblies, the position of the arm assemblies, and the angular orientation of the lever arms while maintaining a constant tension with resistance during these variations. Variations in the travel paths of the arm assemblies, positions of the arm assemblies, and angular orientations of the lever arms allow for different exercises and different flexibility levels. The exercise machine comprises a frame and an exercise assembly, wherein the exercise assembly comprises, two pairs of swivel assemblies, a pair of arm assemblies pivotally connected to the frame for rotation about a respective first axis to perform exercise, and a resistance device and a connecting assembly operatively connecting the arm assemblies to the resistance device. One or two pairs of respective swivel assemblies can be adjusted to rotatably alter the orientation of a respective first axis, the axis of exercise. The connecting assembly may comprise a cable assembly, a link assembly, or a combination of the two. Also, free weights could be directly mounted to the arm assemblies.

Each arm assembly may comprise a lever arm with one or more handles for gripping by the user during exercise and an angular adjustment mechanism which may comprise an arm member to adjust the angle of the lever arm. The connecting assembly may comprise a connection member connected to a connection axis of the angular adjustment mechanism, and/or lever arm to connect resistance.

The arm assemblies are mounted to the frame in a manner that allows the user to adjust the travel path of each arm assembly. In one exemplary embodiment, each arm assembly is pivotally connected to a respective first swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise. Each respective first swivel assembly is pivotally connected to a respective second swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective second axis so that the arm assemblies can revolve about the second axes so the user can preselect a desired travel path. This rotation alters the orientation of each respective first axis of exercise. The revolving of the arm assemblies allows a selection of neutral, converging or diverging paths. Once the desired path is selected, each respective first swivel assembly can be locked into position via a locking mechanism. Each respective second swivel assembly is pivotally connected to the frame and rotatable about a respective third axis. Rotating the second swivel assemblies about the third axes will move the arm assemblies in towards each other or out away from each other. This rotation further alters the orientation of each respective first axis of exercise. Also, the further apart the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate path will be followed by the arm assemblies during exercise. The second swivel assemblies can be locked into position via locking mechanisms once the arm assemblies desired positions and paths are chosen.

In another embodiment of the invention, the above mentioned exemplary embodiment can be made without the first swivel assemblies, wherein the arm assemblies are pivotally mounted to the second swivel assemblies and are rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise. The second swivel assemblies are pivotally attached to the frame and are rotatable about a respective said third axis of the first exemplary embodiment, wherein rotation of second swivel assemblies about the third axes will bring the arm assemblies in towards each other or further apart from each other. This rotation alters the orientation of each respective axis of exercise. Also, the further apart the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate path will be followed by the arm assemblies during exercise. The second swivel assemblies can be locked into position via locking mechanisms once the arm assemblies desired positions and paths are chosen.

In another embodiment of the invention, the above mentioned exemplary embodiment can be made without the second swivel assemblies, wherein the arm assemblies are pivotally mounted to the first swivel assemblies and rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise. The first swivel assemblies are pivotally attached to the frame and are rotatable about a respective said second axis of the first exemplary embodiment. This rotation will alter the orientation of each respective axis of exercise. Also, this rotation will revolve the arm assemblies about the second axes so the user can preselect a desired travel path. The revolving arm assemblies allows a selection of neutral, converging or diverging paths. Once the desired path is selected, each respective first swivel assembly can be locked into position via a locking mechanism.

In another aspect of the invention, the angular orientation of the lever arms, the travel path of the arm assemblies, and the position of the arm assemblies can be adjusted while the connecting assembly connecting the arm assemblies to the resistance element maintains a substantially constant tension. Also, the arm assemblies, connection members, and guide pulley assemblies will rotate and self-align during exercise. In one embodiment, a cable assembly connects a stack of weights to the arm assemblies. A respective arm assembly includes a respective arm member which is slidingly attached to a respective lever arm by a sleeve that will rotate on at least two axes of rotation wherein the angular orientation of the lever arm can be adjusted by pivoting the lever arm and locking the sleeve onto a desired location on the arm member. The arm member is also pivotally attached to a connecting pulley assembly with at least one axis of rotation. The connecting pulley assembly is connected to resistance and also bumpers against a respective guide pulley assembly, which is pivotally attached to the frame. The connecting pulley assemblies and the guide pulley assemblies bumpering one another provides a rest position for the arm assemblies. To accommodate adjustments in the angular orientation of the lever arm, adjustments in the travel path selections, and adjustments in positions of the arm assemblies, the guide pulley assemblies, the connecting pulley assemblies, and the arm members rotate and self-align, thus enabling the connecting pulley assemblies and guide pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the cable assembly to maintain a constant tension. During exercise, to accommodate the preselected adjustments discussed above, the guide pulley assemblies, the connecting pulley assemblies, and the arm members rotate and self-align with the cable assembly. This aspect of the invention can be used on any of the first three embodiments of the invention.

In another embodiment of the invention, a respective arm assembly includes a respective arm member that is pivotally attached to a respective first or second swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis of exercise. The arm member is also pivotally attached with a respective lever arm, wherein the angular orientation of the lever arm can be adjusted via a locking mechanism. The arm member is also pivotally attached to a link rod at a connection axis with at least one axis of rotation. A connecting pulley assembly is also pivotally attached to the link rod. The connecting pulley assembly is connected to resistance and also bumpers against a respective guide pulley assembly, as in the previous embodiment. The connecting pulley assemblies and guide pulley assemblies bumpering one another provides a rest position for the arm assemblies. To accommodate adjustments in the travel path selections and adjustments in positions of the arm assemblies, the guide pulley assemblies, the connection members, which include the connecting pulley assemblies, rotate and self-align, thus enabling the connecting pulley assemblies and guide pulley assemblies to remain bumpered, thus enabling the cable assembly to maintain a constant tension. During exercise, to accommodate the preselected adjustments discussed above, the guide pulley assemblies, the connection members, which include the connecting pulley assemblies, rotate and self-align with the cable assembly. This embodiment can be used on any of the first three embodiments of the invention.

In another embodiment of the invention, a respective arm assembly includes a respective arm member that is pivotally attached to a respective first or second swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis of exercise. The arm member is also pivotally attached with a respective lever arm, wherein the angular orientation of the lever arm can be adjusted via a locking mechanism. The arm member is also pivotally attached to a link rod at a connection axis with at least one axis of rotation. The other end of the link rod is pivotally attached to a leverage mechanism wherein the leverage mechanism is bumpered to provide a rest position for the respective arm assembly. To accommodate adjustments in the travel path selections and adjustments in positions of the arm assemblies, the link rods rotate and self align, thus enabling the leverage mechanism to remain in a bumpered position, thus enabling the connection assembly to maintain a constant tension. During exercise, to accommodate the preselected adjustments discussed above, the link rods rotate and self-align.

In another embodiment of the invention, free weights can be directly loaded to the arm assemblies to provide resistance using any of the above mentioned embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary press/pull exercise machine according to the present invention from the front.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary press/pull exercise machine according to the present invention from the back.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary press/pull exercise machine from the front with the arms configured for a pull exercise.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary press/pull exercise machine from the back with the arms configured for a pull exercise.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary exercise assembly and a portion of a cable assembly.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and respective locking mechanisms.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exemplary exercise assembly.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exemplary arm member.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view illustrating swiveling guide pulley assemblies.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a diverging and narrow setting.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a diverging and open setting.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a diverging and wide setting.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a diverging path in a narrow setting with the handles adjusted to the outside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a diverging path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a diverging path in a wide setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a neutral and narrow setting.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a neutral and open setting.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a neutral and wide setting.

FIG. 19 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in a narrow setting with the handles adjusted to the outside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in a wide setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a converging and narrow setting.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a converging and open setting.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating exemplary swiveling assemblies and locking mechanisms adjusted into a converging and wide setting.

FIG. 25 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a converging path in a narrow setting with the handles adjusted to the outside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a converging path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a converging path in a wide setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection member.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection member.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection member.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection assembly.

FIG. 32 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection assembly.

FIG. 33 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly and alternate connection assembly.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly, alternate connection assembly, and alternate resistance element.

FIG. 35 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

FIG. 37 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate adjusting and locking mechanism for the exercise assembly.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly comprising alternate second swivel assemblies, wherein the arm assemblies axes of exercise can be adjusted wherein the arm assemblies can move inward towards each other or outward away from each other.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly comprising alternate second swivel assemblies, wherein the arm assemblies axes of exercise can be adjusted wherein the arm assemblies can move inward towards each other or outward away from each other.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly and a portion of the cable assembly, wherein the arm assemblies are pivotally attached to alternate second swivel assemblies.

FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a pair of alternate second swiveling assemblies and respective locking mechanisms.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of alternate second swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into a narrow setting.

FIG. 43 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of alternate second swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into an open setting.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of alternate second swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into a wide setting.

FIG. 45 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in a narrow setting with the handles adjusted to the outside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 46 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 47 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in a wide setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly wherein the arm assemblies axes of exercise can be adjusted wherein the arm assemblies can revolve about respective second axes to allow neutral, converging, or diverging travel path selections.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly wherein the arm assemblies axes of exercise can be adjusted wherein the arm assemblies can revolve about respective second axes to allow neutral, converging, or diverging travel path selections.

FIG. 52 is a perspective view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly and a portion of the cable assembly wherein the first swivel assemblies are attached to a frame member.

FIG. 53 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of an alternate exercise assembly showing a pair of first swiveling assemblies and respective locking mechanisms.

FIG. 54 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of first swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into a diverging setting.

FIG. 55 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of first swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into a neutral setting.

FIG. 56 is a perspective view illustrating a pair of first swivel assemblies and respective locking mechanisms adjusted into a converging setting.

FIG. 57 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a diverging path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 58 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a neutral path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 59 is a top view illustrating an alternate exercise assembly with the arms configured to follow a converging path in an open setting with the handles adjusted to the inside and illustrates the path the arm assemblies will travel.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the back with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view illustrating a press/pull exercise machine from the front with an alternate exercise assembly with free weights directly loaded to the arm assemblies as the resistance.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings, an exercise machine according to the present invention is shown therein and indicated generally by the numeral 10. The exercise machine 10 comprises a frame 100, weight stack 200 or other resistance element, exercise assembly 300, and cable system 500 interconnecting the exercise assembly 300 with the weight stack 200. The exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings is for performing press and pull exercises, such as chest presses, bench presses, shoulder presses, inclined presses, and mid row exercises. The exemplary embodiment may also be used to perform other exercises where two opposing arms are pushed, pulled or otherwise moved by the user.

The frame 100 provides structural support and stability to the exercise machine 10. The frame 100 includes a base 102 comprising frame members 104 and 106. Vertical frame members 108 and 110 extend upwardly from the base 102 to top member 112. In the exemplary embodiment, the top member 112 extends generally from front to back. Vertical member 108 is disposed toward the back of the exercise machine 10. Vertical member 110 is disposed toward the front of the exercise machine 10. Frame 100 further includes an upper cross member 114 at the forward end of the top member 112. The upper cross member 114 extends generally perpendicularly to the top member 112. Cross member 114 provides an attachment point for the exercise assembly 300 as will be hereinafter described below. Two guide rod supports 116 are mounted on opposing sides of the top member 112 adjacent the rear end thereof. The guide rod supports 116 secure the upper ends of the guide rods 204 which guide the weight stack 200. A tee-shaped support member 118 extends rearward from the vertical member 110 and provides support for a pair of guide pulley assemblies 520.

The frame 100 further includes a seat support 120 and back support 140. The seat support 120 includes a support member 122 extending from the front vertical member 110. A support sleeve 124 is connected at the forward end of the support member 122. The support sleeve 124 receives a seat post 126 extending from the bottom of a seat 130. The seat 130 may include a cushioned pad. The seat post 126 includes a series of openings 128 that are engaged by a locking pin 132. The locking pin 132 is preferably biased to a locked position. The seat height can be adjusted by disengaging the locking pin 132, adjusting the seat 130 to the desired height, and reengaging the locking pin 132 in one of the apertures 128 in the seat post 126.

The back support 140 comprises a support sleeve 142 secured to the side of the vertical member 110. The support sleeve 142 receives a back post 144 extending from a seat back 145. The seat back 145 may have a cushioned pad. The back post 144 includes a series of apertures 146 that are engaged by a locking pin 148. The seat back 145 can be adjusted in a manner similar to the seat 130 by disengaging the locking pin 148, adjusting the seat back 145 to the desired position, and reengaging the locking pin 148 with one of the apertures 146 in the back post 144.

The weight stack 200 provides resistance to the force applied by the user to the exercise assembly 300. In the exemplary embodiment, the weight stack 200 includes a number of individual weight plates 202 that can be selectively added to and removed from the load picked-up by the user to provide variable amounts of resistance. Guide rods 204 extend through apertures in each of the weight plates 202. The bottom ends of the guide rods 204 are secured to the base 102. The top ends of the guide rods 204 are secured to respective guide post supports 116. The plates 202 slide vertically along the guide rods 204 as the user exercises. A lifting rod 206 extends through a central opening in the weight plates 202. The lifting rod 206 includes a series of apertures that align with corresponding apertures 210 in the weight plates 202. The user selects the desired number of plates 202 to be lifted by inserting a pin 212 through the aperture 210 in a selected plate 202 and engaging the pin 212 with the aperture in the lifting rod 206. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other resistance devices, such as electronic resistance devices, magnetic breaks, pneumatic cylinders or plate loaded free weights may also be used to practice the present invention.

The exercise assembly 300, shown in FIG. 5 along with a portion of the cable assembly, comprises two respective pairs of swivel assemblies, 400 and 420, and a pair of arm assemblies 301 that are pushed or pulled by the user to perform exercises. The arm assemblies 301 are interconnected with the weight stack 200 by the cable assembly 500. Each arm assembly 301 is pivotally mounted so as to pivot about first, second, and third axes labeled X1, X2, and X3, respectively. The arm assemblies 301 are pivotally attached to a first pair of swivel assemblies 420 and rotate about axes X1 when the user is exercising. Each respective first swivel assembly 420 is pivotally attached to a respective second swivel assembly 400 and rotatable about a respective axis X2. Collars 418 retain first swivel assemblies 420 into second swivel assemblies 400. Prior to exercising, the first pair of swivel assemblies 420 can be rotated about axes X2 and locked into position to alter the orientation of the axes of exercise, X1, to change the travel path of the arm assemblies 301. The arm assemblies 301 will revolve about axes X2 wherein a neutral, converging, or diverging path can be selected. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the present invention could be used to select multiple converging paths and/or multiple diverging paths. Also, in one embodiment, different paths can be selected for different arm assemblies 301. Each respective second swivel assembly 400 is pivotally attached to the frame 10 and rotatable about a respective axis X3. Prior to exercising, the second pair of swivel assemblies 400 can be rotated about axes X3 and locked into position to alter the orientation of the axes of exercise, X1, wherein rotation of the second pair of swivel assemblies 400 about axes X3 will bring the arm assemblies 301 in towards each other or further apart from each other. Also, the further apart the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate path will be followed by the arm assemblies during exercise. Both pairs of swiveling assemblies 400 and 420 are discussed in more detail below.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the first swiveling assemblies 420 and the second swiveling assemblies 400 as well as respective locking mechanisms. Cross member 114 provides an attaching point to the frame 100. A pair of locking brackets 440, which have slots 442 and apertures 441, are fixedly attached to cross member 114. A respective axle 419 is mounted to a respective locking bracket 440 and is collinear with each respective axis X3. Each respective second swiveling assembly 400 has a first sleeve 410, which is collinear with a respective axis X2, and holds bushings 416 and sleeve bushing 402. Attached to the first sleeve 410 is a locking plate 405, which has a slot 404 and apertures 403, and a pin holder 409 which has a limit pin 407 and a locking pin 406. Also attached to the first sleeve 410 is a second sleeve 408 which is collinear with a respective axis X3. Second sleeve 408 holds bushings 414, and braces 411 and 412 secure second sleeve 408 with first sleeve 410. Each respective second swiveling assembly 400 can be adjusted by unlocking locking pin 406, rotating second swiveling assembly 400 about axis X3, and relocking locking pin 406 into a desired aperture 441 in locking bracket 440. Limit pin 407 is engaged into slot 442 to limit the travel of the second swiveling assembly 400. Each respective first swiveling assembly 420 has a u-bracket 422 wherein an arm assembly 310 can be pivotally mounted and rotate about an axis X1. A locking pin 425, a limit pin 426, and a shaft 424 which is collinear with axis X2, is mounted to the u-bracket 422. Each respective first swiveling assembly 420 can be adjusted by unlocking locking pin 425, rotating first swiveling assembly 420 about axis X2, and relocking locking pin 425 into a desired aperture 403 in locking plate 405. Each respective arm assembly 301 is pivotally attached to a respective first swiveling assembly 420 and rotatable about a respective axis X1 to perform exercise as will be explained below.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary exercise assembly 300. As explained above, each respective arm assembly 301 is pivotally mounted to a respective first swiveling assembly 420. Each respective arm assembly 301 comprises an axle 312 which is mounted to a respective first swivel assembly 420 and is collinear with a respective axis X1. Axle 312 is journaled by bushings 308 which fit into sleeve 309. Attached to sleeve 309 is a lever arm 302 wherein the lever arm has locking plate 305 and shaft 314 attached at the other end. A swiveling handle assembly 340 is pivotally attached to shaft 314 and rotatable about an axis labeled A1. The swiveling handle assembly 340 comprises a sleeve 344, which holds bushings 346, sleeve plate 347, locking pin 348, and handle 342. Collar 345 retains swiveling handle assembly 340 onto shaft 314. A user can unlock locking pin 348, rotate swiveling handle assembly 340, and relock locking pin 348 into locking plate 305 so handle 342 will be in a desired position. Also attached to lever arm 302 is extension tube 315, which has an opening for sleeve 304, which holds bushings 306. An angular adjustment mechanism 320, which is part of the arm assembly 301, is pivotally attached to the lever arm 302 and is discussed below.

FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a respective angular adjustment mechanism 320, as well as a connecting pulley assembly 540. The connecting pulley assembly 540 is part of the connection assembly and will be discussed further below. The angular adjusting mechanism 320 includes swivel bracket assembly 330, sleeve assembly 325, and arm member 321. Swivel bracket assembly 330 is pivotally attached to lever arm 302 and rotatable about an axis labeled J1. Swivel bracket assembly 330 comprises a u-bracket 332, wherein a shaft 334 is mounted and is collinear with axis J1 and is secured to lever arm 302 by collar 307. Sleeve assembly 325 comprises sleeve 326, wherein bushing sleeves 328 are mounted and hold bushings 329. Locking pin 327 is also mounted to sleeve 326. Sleeve assembly 325 is pivotally mounted to swivel bracket assembly 330 and secured by bolts 335 and rotatable about an axis labeled J2. An arm member 321 has a plurality of apertures and is slidingly adjustable into sleeve assembly 325. A connection member, which is part of the connection assembly, is pivotally attached to the arm member 321 and discussed further below.

The connection assembly in the exemplary embodiment is a cable system 500, which is shown in FIGS. 1-5. The cable assembly 500 interconnects the arm assemblies 301 of the exercise assembly 300 with the weight stack 200 so that when either one of the arm assemblies 301 are pushed or pulled outward by the user during exercise, the weight stack 200 is lifted. The cable assembly 500 is described below. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a similar result could be achieved using a different configuration of pulleys and cables. Also, belts, chains, cords, and rods with universal joints could be used instead of cables to connect exercise assembly 300 to the weight stack 200. Also, free weights could be loaded on or connected to the arm assemblies to provide the resistance.

The exemplary cable assembly 500 includes first and second cables 502 and 504 respectively. The first cable 502 connects to the weight stack 200. The second cable 504 connects to the arm assemblies 301 of the exercise assembly 300. The cable assembly further includes a double floating pulley assembly 510 interconnecting the cables 502 and 504, a pair of self-aligning guide pulley assemblies 520 pivotally connected to the frame 100, a pair of connecting pulley assemblies 540 pivotally mounted to arm member 321, and fixed pulleys 506, 508, 570, and 572, which are fixedly secured to the frame 100.

As shown in FIG. 9, the guide pulley assemblies 520 are pivotally attached to brackets 120, which are supported by support member 118, which is attached to frame 100. Each guide pulley assembly 520 is rotatable about a respective axis labeled J4. Each respective guide pulley assembly 520 includes pulleys 507 and 509 mounted between side plates 512, and mounting sleeve 511. Bushings 510 fit into the open ends of the mounting sleeve 511. Bumper stop 514 is attached to side plates 512. The purpose of the bumper stops will be discussed in detail further below. The guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate about axes J4 to maintain alignment with the cable 504 when the travel paths of the arm assemblies 301 are adjusted and during movement of the arm assemblies 301.

The cable assembly 500 also includes a pair of connection members which in the exemplary embodiment it is a pair of connecting pulley assemblies 540. Shown in FIG. 8, a respective connecting pulley assembly 540 is pivotally attached to arm member 321 and is rotatable about an axis labeled J3. Pulley 548 fits into pulley bracket 542 wherein shaft 544 and bumper 550 is attached to pulley bracket 542. The purpose of the bumper 550 will be discussed in detail further below. Bushings 545 fit into sleeve 546 wherein sleeve 546 is attached to arm member 321. Shaft 544 along with bracket 542 is pivotally mounted to sleeve 546 and rotatable about axis J3. The connecting pulley assemblies 540 rotate about axes J3 to maintain alignment with the cable 504 when the travel paths of the arm assemblies 301 are adjusted and during movement of the arm assemblies 301.

Cable 502 is connected at one end to the lift rod 206 and at the opposite end to the base 102. Cable 502 passes around fixed pulleys 506 and 508 and floating pulley 503 in the floating pulley assembly 510. While the cable 502 is depicted as being anchored to the base 102, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the cable 502 could also be connected to another exercise assembly. Cable 504 passes around floating pulley 501 of the floating pulley assembly 510, fixed pulleys 570 and 572, pulleys 507 of the guide pulley assemblies 520, pulleys 548 of the connecting pulley assemblies 540, and pulleys 509 of the guide pulley assemblies 520. A ball stop 505 is attached to each end of cable 504 to secure the ends of cable 504 to the guide pulley assemblies 520. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the ends of the cable 504 could also be connected to other exercise assemblies.

As previously discussed, a respective arm member 321 is pivotally attached to a respective lever arm 302 and rotatable about two axes of rotation, J1 and J2 respectively. A respective connecting pulley assembly 540 is pivotally attached to a respective arm member 321 and rotatable about a respective connection axis J3. From the foregoing, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that a respective connecting pulley assembly 540 is moveable about three axes of rotation. As previously discussed, a respective guide pulley assembly 520 is pivotally attached to the frame 100 and rotatable about a respective axis J4. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, a respective connecting pulley assembly 540 and a respective guide pulley assembly 520 bumper one another to provide a rest position for a respective lever arm 302. Cable 504 maintains a constant tension to keep guide pulley assemblies 520 and connecting pulley assemblies 540 bumpered with one another when the exercise assembly 300 is not being used. As the arm assemblies 301 are being adjusted for a preselected travel path, the arm members 321, connecting pulley assemblies 540, and guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate about axes J1, J2, J3, and J4 and self-align, thus enabling the guide pulley assemblies 520 and the connecting pulley assemblies 540 to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the cable assembly 500 to maintain a substantially constant tension. During exercise, the arm members 321, connecting pulley assemblies 540, and guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate about axes J1, J2, J3, and J4 and self-align with cable 504, wherein the connecting pulley assemblies 540 and the guide pulley assemblies 520 return back into the bumpered position at the end of exercise and give the lever arms 302 a rest position.

FIGS. 1-4 illustrate front and back perspective views of an exemplary exercise machine 10 wherein the angular orientation of the lever arms 302 are adjusted to different angles. To adjust the angle of a respective lever arm 302, the user will unlock locking pin 327 and pivot the respective lever arm 302 about a respective axis X1, and then relock the locking pin 327 in the desired location. During the adjustment, sleeve assembly 325 slides along arm member 321, wherein the arm member 321, connecting pulley assembly 540, and guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate about axes J1, J2, J3, and J4 and self-align, thus enabling the connecting pulley assemblies 540 and the guide pulley assemblies 520 to remain in a bumpered position, thus allowing the cable assembly 500 to maintain a substantially constant tension.

In use, the user adjusts the angular orientation of each lever arm 302 to a comfortable position depending on factors such as the user's arm length, flexibility, and the exercise chosen. The user can also adjusts the travel path for each arm assembly 301 by unlocking each arm assembly 301, rotating each arm assembly 301 about a respective axis X2, and relocking each arm assembly 301 into a desired position. Rotating the arm assemblies about the X2 axes will allow the user to select a neutral path, a converging path, or a diverging path. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that some embodiments may provide multiple converging and/or multiple diverging paths. The user can further adjust the position and the travel path of each arm assembly 301 by unlocking each arm assembly 301, rotating each arm assembly about a respective axis X3, and relocking each arm assembly 301 into a desired position. Rotating the arm assemblies 301 about the X3 axes will bring the arm assemblies 301 in towards each other or out further away from each other. Also, the further apart the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate path will be followed by the arm assemblies 301 during exercise. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the arm assemblies 301 can be independently adjusted. After the adjustments are made, the user sits on seat 130 with the user's back or chest against the seat back 145. The user grasps the handles 342 for each arm assembly 301 and pushes or pulls the arm assemblies 301 outward to lift the weight stack 200. The user may choose to use the lever arms 302 independently one at a time for some exercises. During exercise, the arm assemblies 301 rotate about the first axes X1. Each arm assembly 301 will follow a neutral path, converging path, or diverging path as preselected by the user. The guide pulley assemblies 520, connecting pulley assemblies 540, and arm members 321 will rotate to self-align with cable 504 when the travel path of the arm assemblies 301 is adjusted and during movement of the arm assemblies 301. At the end of exercise, cable 504 will pull connecting pulley assemblies 540 back into bumper position with guide pulley assemblies 520 to provide a rest position for arm assemblies 301.

FIGS. 10-12, 16-18, and 22-24 are perspective views of exemplary first and second pairs of swivel assemblies, 420 and 400 respectively, as well as respective locking mechanisms, positioned in different settings. FIGS. 13-15, 19-21, and 25-27 are top views of exercise assembly 300 and illustrate the path the arm assemblies 301 would travel for the different preselected settings. FIG. 10 corresponds with FIG. 13, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a diverging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a narrow setting. As shown in FIG. 13, these preselected settings would provide a diverging and linear path of exercise.

FIG. 11 corresponds with FIG. 14, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a diverging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in an open setting. As shown in FIG. 14, these preselected settings would provide a diverging and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 12 corresponds with FIG. 15, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a diverging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a wide setting. As shown in FIG. 15, these preselected settings would provide a diverging and moderate arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 16 corresponds with FIG. 19, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a neutral orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a narrow setting. As shown in FIG. 19, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and linear path of exercise.

FIG. 17 corresponds with FIG. 20, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a neutral orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in an open setting. As shown in FIG. 20, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 18 corresponds with FIG. 21, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a neutral orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a wide setting. As shown in FIG. 21, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and moderate arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 22 corresponds with FIG. 25, wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a converging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a narrow setting. As shown in FIG. 25, these preselected settings would provide a converging and linear path of exercise.

FIG. 23 corresponds with FIG. 26 wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a converging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in an open setting. As shown in FIG. 26, these preselected settings would provide a converging and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 24 corresponds with FIG. 27 wherein the first swivel assemblies 420 are positioned wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a converging orientation. The second swivel assemblies 400 are positioned wherein the X2 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a wide setting. As shown in FIG. 27, these preselected settings would provide a converging and moderate arcuate path of exercise.

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate a front and back perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate construction of the exercise assembly 300 and an alternate construction of the connection member. The alternate connection member is labeled 610. The alternate design of the exercise assembly 300 and connection member 610, shown in FIG. 28, will provide the same preselected travel paths, constant tension in the connecting assembly when the arm assemblies are adjusted, and an angular adjustment mechanism to adjust the angular orientation of the lever arm 302 as does the exemplary exercise assembly 300. Therefore, similar reference numerals are used to indicate similar components.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the angular adjustment mechanism 600 comprises an arm member 601 wherein a locking plate 605 is fixedly attached. The angular orientation of lever arm 302 can be adjusted by unlocking the locking pin 355, pivoting lever arm 302 into a desired position, and relocking locking pin 355 into an aperture on locking plate 605. The connection members 610, connects the resistance to the arm assemblies 301. Each connection member 610 comprises a connecting pulley assembly 540 that is pivotally attached to sleeve 611, which is attached to link rod 612. Ball joint 614 is attached to link rod 612, wherein ball joint 614 is also pivotally attached to arm member 601 and rotatable about a connection axis labeled R1. Collar 615 retains ball joint 614 onto arm member 601. The connecting pulley assemblies 540 and guide pulley assemblies 520 bumper one another to provide a rest position for the arm assemblies 301. To accommodate adjustments in travel path selections and adjustments in positions of the arm assemblies 301, the connection members 610, which includes connecting pulley assemblies 540, and the guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate and self-align, thus enabling the guide pulley assemblies 520 and the connecting pulley assemblies 540 to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the cable assembly 500 to maintain a constant tension. During exercise, connection members 610, which include connecting pulley assemblies 540, and the guide pulley assemblies 520 rotate and self-align with cable 504.

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIGS. 28 and 29. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 30 does not include angular adjustment mechanisms 600, therefore, each respective lever arm 302 is not angularly adjustable from the front to the back of exercise machine 10.

FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate a front and back perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate construction of the connection assembly. In this embodiment, the exercise assembly 300 is the same as the exercise assembly discussed in FIGS. 28 and 29. The connection members 613 comprises link rods 612, and ball joints 614 and 617 respectively attached to each respective end of link rod 612. A respective ball joint 614 is pivotally attached to a respective arm member 601 and rotatable about a connection axis labeled R1. Ball joints 617 are attached to leverage arms 620 which are pivotally attached to pivot brace 627. The leverage arms 620 are connected to resistance by cables 552 and 553. Bumper 625 holds the leverage arms in a rest position when the exercise assembly 300 is not in use. To accommodate adjustments in travel path selections and adjustments in positions of the arm assemblies 301, the link rods 612 rotate and self-align, thus enabling the arm assemblies 301 along with the leverage arms 620 to remain in a bumpered position, thus allowing the connection assembly, which is a combination link and cable assembly, to maintain a substantially constant tension. During exercise, link rods 612 rotate and self-align as leverage arms 620 pivot about brace 627, wherein the cables 552 and 553 respectively lower and raise the weight stack. Those skilled in the art would also appreciate that there are many other variations of linkages that could be used to obtain resistance.

FIG. 33 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIGS. 31 and 32. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 33 does not include angular adjustment mechanisms 600, therefore, each respective lever arm 302 is not angularly adjustable from the front to the back of exercise machine 10.

FIG. 34 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIGS. 31 and 32. The difference is the resistance element and the connection assembly. In this embodiment, during exercise, arm assemblies 301 pull leverage arms 620, which are interconnected by cables 556 with leverage arms 630, wherein free weights 645 are picked up by the leverage arms 630. Bumper 632 provides a rest position for leverage arms 630. Those skilled in the art would also appreciate that there are many other variations of linkages that could be used to obtain resistance from free weights.

FIG. 35 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate construction of the exercise assembly 300 and an alternate form of resistance. In this embodiment, the first swivel assemblies 420 include a respective bumper 442. The angular adjustment mechanisms 700 include a respective arm member 702, wherein a locking plate 605 is fixedly attached. The lever arm 302 is pivotally attached with arm member 702. The angular orientation of lever arm 302 can be adjusted by unlocking locking pin 355, pivoting lever arm 302 into the desired position, and relocking locking pin 355 into a selected aperture on locking plate 605. Free weights 645 are loaded onto arm members 702 to provide the resistance. Arm members 702 rest on bumpers 442 during adjustments of travel path selections and adjustments of the positions of arm assemblies and while the exercise assembly 300 is not being used.

FIG. 36 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIG. 35. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 36 does not include angular adjustment mechanisms 700, therefore, each respective lever arm 302 is not angularly adjustable from the front to the back of exercise machine 10.

FIG. 37 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate adjusting and locking mechanism for the second swivel assemblies 400 of the exercise assembly 300. The construction of this exercise assembly 300 is similar to the construction of the exercise assembly 300 in FIGS. 1-4. In this embodiment, a crank mechanism 721 is used to adjust the second swivel assemblies 400. Pivot links 723 connect crank tube 724 to the swivel assemblies 400, wherein turning crank handle rod 725 will raise or lower the second swivel assemblies 400. The crank mechanism 721 is used to adjust the arm assemblies 301 as well as lock the second swivel assemblies into the desired position. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a crank mechanism can be electrically powered as well.

FIGS. 38 and 39 illustrate a front and back perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate exercise assembly 300. The construction of this exercise assembly 300 is similar to the construction of the exemplary exercise assembly 300 in FIGS. 1-8. In this embodiment, the second swiveling assemblies 400 are constructed differently. Although constructed differently, these alternate second swivel assemblies 400 pivot about axes X3 and adjust and lock in the same way as the second swivel assemblies 400 in the exemplary embodiment. FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the exercise assembly 300 in this embodiment, as well as a portion of the cable assembly 500. FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view of the alternate second swiveling assemblies 400 as well as respective locking mechanisms. In this FIG. 41, because this embodiment is similar to the exemplary embodiment, similar components are labeled with similar reference numerals. Each respective second swiveling assembly 400 can be adjusted by unlocking locking pin 406, rotating second swiveling assembly 400 about axis X3, and relocking locking pin 406 into a desired aperture 441 in locking bracket 440. Limit pin 407 is engaged into slot 442 to limit the travel of the second swiveling assembly 400. Rotation of the second pair of swivel assemblies 400 about axes X3 will bring the arm assemblies 301 in towards each other or further apart from each other. Also, the further apart the arm assemblies are adjusted from one another, a more pronounced arcuate path will be followed by the arm assemblies during exercise. There are no first swiveling assemblies 420 in this embodiment, therefore the arm assemblies 301 are pivotally attached to the second swiveling assemblies 400 and are rotatable about the X1 axes of exercise during use. In this embodiment, the arm assemblies 301 and the cable assembly 500 are the same as the arm assemblies 301 and the cable assembly 500 in the exemplary embodiment, therefore, this part of the embodiment will function the same as that of the exemplary embodiment when the adjustments of the positions of the arm assemblies 301 are made and during use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 28-34 can be constructed using this embodiment, that is, without the first swiveling assemblies 420.

FIGS. 42-44 are perspective views of alternate second pairs of swivel assemblies 400, as well as respective locking mechanisms, positioned in different settings. As previously described, this embodiment does not include the exemplary first swivel assemblies 420; therefore, neutral, converging, and diverging paths are not selectably adjustable. In this embodiment, the alternate second swivel assemblies are constructed wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a neutral setting. FIGS. 45-47 are top views of the alternate exercise assembly 300 and illustrate the path the arm assemblies 301 would travel for the different preselected settings. FIG. 42 corresponds with FIG. 45, wherein the X1 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a narrow setting. As shown in FIG. 45, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and linear path of exercise.

FIG. 43 corresponds with FIG. 46, wherein the X1 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in an open setting. As shown in FIG. 46, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 44 corresponds with FIG. 47, wherein the X1 axes are oriented wherein the arm assemblies 301 would be in a wide setting. As shown in FIG. 47, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and moderate arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 48 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate construction of the exercise assembly 300 and an alternate form of resistance. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment previously discussed in FIG. 35. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 48 has the same alternate construction of the second swiveling assemblies 400 discussed in FIGS. 38 and 39. There are no exemplary first swiveling assemblies 420 in this embodiment.

FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIG. 48. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 49 does not include angular adjustment mechanisms 700, therefore, each respective lever arm 302 is not angularly adjustable from the front to the back of exercise machine 10.

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate a front and back perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate exercise assembly 300. The construction of this exercise assembly 300 is similar to the construction of the exemplary exercise assembly 300 in FIGS. 1-8. In this embodiment, there are no second swiveling assemblies 400. FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the exercise assembly 300 in this embodiment, as well as a portion of the cable assembly 500. FIG. 53 is an exploded perspective view of the first swiveling assemblies 420 as well as respective locking mechanisms. In this FIG. 53, because this embodiment is similar to the exemplary embodiment, similar components are labeled with similar reference numerals. The first swiveling assemblies 420 are pivotally attached to the frame 100 and are rotatable about axes X2. Locking plates 405 are fixedly attached to the frame 100 rather than being attached to the second swiveling assemblies 400. Each respective first swiveling assembly 420 can be adjusted by unlocking locking pin 425, rotating first swiveling assembly 420 about axis X2, and relocking locking pin 425 into a desired aperture 403 in locking plate 405. This will alter the orientation of the axes of exercise, X1, and change the travel path of the arm assemblies 301. The arm assemblies 301 will revolve about axes X2 wherein a neutral, converging, or diverging path can be selected. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the present invention could be used to select multiple converging paths and/or multiple diverging paths. Also, in one embodiment, different paths can be selected for different arm assemblies 301. In this embodiment, the arm assemblies 301 and the cable assembly 500 are the same as the arm assemblies 301 and the cable assembly 500 in the exemplary embodiment, therefore, this part of the embodiment will function the same as that of the exemplary embodiment when the adjustments for the preselected travel paths of the arm assemblies 301 are made and during use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 28-34 can be constructed using this embodiment, that is, without the second swiveling assemblies 400.

FIGS. 54-56 are perspective views of first swiveling assemblies 420 pivotally attached to cross member 114. As previously described, this embodiment does not include the exemplary second swivel assemblies 400; therefore, narrow, open, and wide settings are not selectably adjustable. In this embodiment, the X2 axes are constructed wherein the X2 axes are tilted for an open setting for the arm assemblies 301. FIGS. 57-59 are top views of the alternate exercise assembly 300 and illustrate the path the arm assemblies 301 would travel for the different preselected settings. FIG. 54 corresponds with FIG. 57, wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a diverging orientation. As shown in FIG. 57, these preselected settings would provide a diverging and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 55 corresponds with FIG. 58, wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a neutral orientation. As shown in FIG. 58, these preselected settings would provide a neutral and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 56 corresponds with FIG. 59, wherein the X1 axes of exercise are in a converging orientation. As shown in FIG. 59, these preselected settings would provide a converging and slightly arcuate path of exercise.

FIG. 60 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 with an alternate construction of the exercise assembly 300 and an alternate form of resistance. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment previously discussed in FIG. 35. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 60 has the same attachment means for the first swiveling assemblies as discussed in FIGS. 50 and 51. There are no exemplary second swiveling assemblies 400 in this embodiment.

FIG. 61 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise machine 10 similar to the exercise machine 10 in FIG. 60. The difference being, the exercise assembly 300 in FIG. 61 does not include angular adjustment mechanisms 700, therefore, each respective lever arm 302 is not angularly adjustable from the front to the back of exercise machine 10.

The present invention may, of course, be carried out in other specific ways than those herein set forth without departing from the spirit and essential characteristics of the invention. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalency range of the appended claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. An exercise machine comprising:

a frame;

at least one resistance element to provide resistance for performing exercise;

a pair of arm assemblies connected to said resistance;

a first pair of swivel assemblies, each respective said arm assembly pivotally connected to a respective said first swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise; and

a second pair of swivel assemblies, each respective said first swivel assembly pivotally connected to a respective said second swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective second axis wherein rotation of a respective said first swivel assembly will revolve a respective said arm assembly about a respective said second axis and allow selection of a desired travel path for said arm assemblies, wherein said second pair of swivel assemblies are pivotally attached to said frame and are rotatable about a respective third axis, wherein rotation of said second swivel assemblies will bring said arm assemblies in towards each other or out away from each other to provide additional travel path selections for said arm assemblies.

2. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein said first pair of swivel assemblies comprises a locking mechanism for locking said arm assemblies in a desired position to prevent rotation about said second axes.

3. The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein said locking mechanism on each respective said first swivel assembly comprises a locking plate mounted to one of a respective said first swivel assembly and respective said second swivel assembly and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of a respective said first swivel assembly and respective said second swivel assembly to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate to lock a respective said arm assembly in a desired position.

4. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein said second pair of swivel assemblies comprises a locking mechanism for locking said arm assemblies in a desired position to prevent rotation about said third axes.

5. The exercise machine of claim 4 wherein said locking mechanism on each respective said second swivel assembly comprises a locking plate mounted to one of a respective said second swivel assembly and said frame and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of a respective said second swivel assembly and said frame to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate to lock a respective said arm assembly in a desired position.

6. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein a respective said arm assembly may comprise:

a lever arm, said lever arm including at least one handle for gripping by user;

an angular adjustment mechanism, said angular adjustment mechanism providing means to adjust the angular orientation of said lever arm; and

a connection axis to connect resistance to said arm assembly.

7. The exercise machine of claim 6 wherein an angular adjustment mechanism comprises:

a sleeve with a locking pin;

a swivel bracket; and

an arm member, having a plurality of apertures formed therein, and slidingly adjustable into said sleeve with a locking pin, therefore adjustable in a first direction, wherein said sleeve is pivotally attached to said swivel bracket to allow movement of said arm member in a second direction, wherein said swivel bracket is pivotally attached to said lever arm to allow movement of said arm member in a third direction, wherein the angular position of a respective said lever arm is pivotally adjustable about a respective said first axis by unlocking said pin on said sleeve and sliding said sleeve along said arm member and relocking pin in desired location.

8. The exercise machine of claim 7 further including a cable assembly connecting said arm assemblies to said resistance device wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally connected to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop;

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said arm member, wherein a respective said guide pulley assembly and a respective said connecting pulley assembly bumper one another to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said arm members; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

9. The exercise machine of claim 6 wherein a respective said angular adjustment mechanism may comprise:

an arm member pivotally attached with said lever arm; and

a locking plate mounted to one of said arm member and said lever arm and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of said arm member and said lever arm to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate, wherein a said lever arm can be pivotally rotated and positioned and locked at a desired angle.

10. The exercise machine of claim 9 further including a cable assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly and a respective link rod, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said link rod at one end and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation, wherein the other end of said link rod is pivotally attached to a respective said arm assembly at said connection axis and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation.

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally attached to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies bumper each other to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said link rods; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

11. The exercise machine of claim 9 further comprising a link assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said link assembly comprises:

a pair of link rods with at least one axis of rotation on each end, wherein one end of a respective said link rod is connected on a respective said connection axis of a respective said arm assembly; and

a leverage mechanism pivotally attached to said frame, wherein the other end of a respective said link rod is connected to said leverage mechanism, said leverage mechanism is bumpered to prevent rotation in both directions thus supporting said arm assemblies in a rest position, wherein rotation of said leverage mechanism will displace said resistance element; and

wherein said link rods rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling said leverage mechanism to remain in a bumpered position, thus allowing the said link assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said link rods rotate and self-align with said link assembly for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said leverage mechanism returns back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

12. The exercise machine of claim 9 wherein said resistance element comprises free weight plates directly mountable to said arm assemblies, each said arm assembly pivotally mounted to a respective said first swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective said first axis to perform exercise, each respective said first swivel assembly comprising a bumper to engage and support a respective said arm assembly when a respective said arm assembly sits in a rest position, wherein a respective said bumper rotates along with a respective said arm assembly during adjustments to the travel path selections and adjustments to the positions of the arm assemblies.

13. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein said second swivel assemblies can be adjusted with a crank mechanism.

14. An exercise machine comprising:

a frame;

at least one resistance element to provide resistance for performing exercise;

a pair of arm assemblies connected to said resistance;

a pair of swivel assemblies, each respective said arm assembly pivotally connected to a respective said swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise, wherein said swivel assemblies are pivotally attached to said frame and are rotatable about a respective second axis, wherein rotation of said swivel assemblies will alter said first axes, the axes of exercise, and will bring said arm assemblies in towards each other or out away from each other to provide various travel path selections for said arm assemblies; and

means for locking said swivel assemblies, wherein said arm assemblies can be adjusted into a desired position prior to exercise.

15. The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein said locking means on each respective said swivel assembly comprises a locking plate mounted to one of a respective said swivel assembly and said frame and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of a respective said swivel assembly and said frame to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate to lock a respective said arm assembly in a desired position.

16. The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein a respective said arm assembly may comprise:

a lever arm, said lever arm including at least one handle for gripping by user;

an angular adjustment mechanism, said angular adjustment mechanism providing means to adjust the angular orientation of said lever arm; and

a connection axis to connect resistance to said arm assembly.

17. The exercise machine of claim 16 wherein an angular adjustment mechanism comprises:

a sleeve with a locking pin;

a swivel bracket; and

an arm member, having a plurality of apertures formed therein, and slidingly adjustable into said sleeve with a locking pin, therefore adjustable in a first direction, wherein said sleeve is pivotally attached to said swivel bracket to allow movement of said arm member in a second direction, wherein said swivel bracket is pivotally attached to said lever arm to allow movement of said arm member in a third direction, wherein the angular position of a respective said lever arm is pivotally adjustable about a respective said first axis by unlocking said pin on said sleeve and sliding said sleeve along said arm member and relocking pin in desired location.

18. The exercise machine of claim 17 further including a cable assembly connecting said arm assemblies to said resistance device wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally connected to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop;

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said arm member, wherein a respective said guide pulley assembly and a respective said connecting pulley assembly bumper one another to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said arm members; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

19. The exercise machine of claim 16 wherein a respective said angular adjustment mechanism may comprise:

an arm member pivotally attached with said lever arm; and

a locking plate mounted to one of said arm member and said lever arm and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of said arm member and said lever arm to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate, wherein a said lever arm can be pivotally rotated and positioned and locked at a desired angle.

20. The exercise machine of claim 19 further including a cable assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly and a respective link rod, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said link rod at one end and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation, wherein the other end of said link rod is pivotally attached to a respective said arm assembly at said connection axis and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation.

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally attached to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies bumper each other to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said link rods; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

21. The exercise machine of claim 19 further comprising a link assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said link assembly comprises:

a pair of link rods with at least one axis of rotation on each end, wherein one end of a respective said link rod is connected on a respective said connection axis of a respective said arm assembly; and

a leverage mechanism pivotally attached to said frame, wherein the other end of a respective said link rod is connected to said leverage mechanism, said leverage mechanism is bumpered to prevent rotation in both directions thus supporting said arm assemblies in a rest position, wherein rotation of said leverage mechanism will displace said resistance element; and

wherein said link rods rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling said leverage mechanism to remain in a bumpered position, thus allowing the said link assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said link rods rotate and self-align with said link assembly for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said leverage mechanism returns back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

22. The exercise machine of claim 19 wherein said resistance element comprises free weight plates directly mountable to said arm assemblies, each said arm assembly pivotally mounted to a respective said swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective said first axis to perform exercise, each respective said swivel assembly comprising a bumper to engage and support a respective said arm assembly when a respective said arm assembly sits in a rest position, wherein a respective said bumper rotates along with a respective said arm assembly during adjustments to the travel path selections and adjustments to the positions of the arm assemblies.

23. The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein said second swivel assemblies can be adjusted with a crank mechanism.

24. An exercise machine comprising:

a frame;

at least one resistance element to provide resistance for performing exercise;

a pair of arm assemblies connected to said resistance;

a pair of swivel assemblies, each respective said arm assembly pivotally connected to a respective said swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective first axis to perform exercise, wherein said swivel assemblies are pivotally attached to said frame and are rotatable about a respective second axis, wherein rotation of said swivel assemblies will alter said first axes, the axes of exercise, and will revolve said arm assemblies about said second axes to provide travel path selections for said arm assemblies; and

means for locking said swivel assemblies, wherein said arm assemblies can be adjusted into a desired position prior to exercise.

25. The exercise machine of claim 24 wherein said locking means on each respective said swivel assembly comprises a locking plate mounted to one of a respective said swivel assembly and said frame and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of a respective said swivel assembly and said frame to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate to lock a respective said arm assembly in a desired position.

26. The exercise machine of claim 24 wherein a respective said arm assembly may comprise:

a lever arm, said lever arm including at least one handle for gripping by user;

an angular adjustment mechanism, said angular adjustment mechanism providing means to adjust the angular orientation of said lever arm; and

a connection axis to connect resistance to said arm assembly.

27. The exercise machine of claim 26 wherein an angular adjustment mechanism comprises:

a sleeve with a locking pin;

a swivel bracket; and

an arm member, having a plurality of apertures formed therein, and slidingly adjustable into said sleeve with a locking pin, therefore adjustable in a first direction, wherein said sleeve is pivotally attached to said swivel bracket to allow movement of said arm member in a second direction, wherein said swivel bracket is pivotally attached to said lever arm to allow movement of said arm member in a third direction, wherein the angular position of a respective said lever arm is pivotally adjustable about a respective said first axis by unlocking said pin on said sleeve and sliding said sleeve along said arm member and relocking pin in desired location.

28. The exercise machine of claim 27 further including a cable assembly connecting said arm assemblies to said resistance device wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally connected to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop;

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said arm member, wherein a respective said guide pulley assembly and a respective said connecting pulley assembly bumper one another to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said arm members; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies, said arm members, and said connecting pulley assemblies rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

29. The exercise machine of claim 26 wherein a respective said angular adjustment mechanism may comprise:

an arm member pivotally attached with said lever arm; and

a locking plate mounted to one of said arm member and said lever arm and having a plurality of apertures, and a locking pin mounted to the other of said arm member and said lever arm to engage a selected aperture of said locking plate, wherein a said lever arm can be pivotally rotated and positioned and locked at a desired angle.

30. The exercise machine of claim 29 further including a cable assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said cable assembly comprises:

a pair of connection members, each respective connection member includes a respective connecting pulley assembly and a respective link rod, each said connecting pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached and pivotally connected to a respective said link rod at one end and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation, wherein the other end of said link rod is pivotally attached to a respective said arm assembly at said connection axis and rotatable about at least one axis of rotation.

a pair of guide pulley assemblies pivotally attached to said frame, each respective said guide pulley assembly having a bumper or bumper stop attached wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies bumper each other to support a respective said arm assembly in a rest position;

a cable passing around said guide pulley assemblies on said frame and said connecting pulley assemblies on said link rods; and

wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies to remain bumpered with one another, thus allowing the said cable assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said guide pulley assemblies and said connection members rotate and self-align with said cable for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said guide pulley assemblies and said connecting pulley assemblies return back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

31. The exercise machine of claim 29 further comprising a link assembly connecting said resistance to said arm assemblies wherein said link assembly comprises:

a pair of link rods with at least one axis of rotation on each end, wherein one end of a respective said link rod is connected on a respective said connection axis of a respective said arm assembly; and

a leverage mechanism pivotally attached to said frame, wherein the other end of a respective said link rod is connected to said leverage mechanism, said leverage mechanism is bumpered to prevent rotation in both directions thus supporting said arm assemblies in a rest position, wherein rotation of said leverage mechanism will displace said resistance element; and

wherein said link rods rotate to align during travel path selection adjustments, thus enabling said leverage mechanism to remain in a bumpered position, thus allowing the said link assembly to maintain a substantially constant tension; and wherein said link rods rotate and self-align with said link assembly for the preselected travel paths during exercise; and wherein the said leverage mechanism returns back into a bumpered position at the end of exercise to support the said arm assemblies in a rest position.

32. The exercise machine of claim 29 wherein said resistance element comprises free weight plates directly mountable to said arm assemblies, each said arm assembly pivotally mounted to a respective said swivel assembly and rotatable about a respective said first axis to perform exercise, each respective said swivel assembly comprising a bumper to engage and support a respective said arm assembly when a respective said arm assembly sits in a rest position, wherein a respective said bumper rotates along with a respective said arm assembly during adjustments to the travel path selections and adjustments to the positions of the arm assemblies.