Dumbbell Retention Device

Abstract

A weight lifting apparatus is provided for converting traditional dumbbell weights into a kettlebell. The apparatus includes a support structure with a handle member, a pair of arm members that extend downward therefrom, a clamping mechanism, and a locking mechanism. Each arm member includes a clamping mechanism to receive a traditional dumbbell's transverse member. The clamping mechanism has a locking mechanism to safely and easily secure the dumbbell to the support structure thereby enabling the user to utilize the modified dumbbell to perform kettlebell exercises.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/670,935 filed on Jul. 12, 2012, entitled “The Grip”. The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to dumbbell connection devices and particularly to a device for retaining a dumbbell in a configuration suitable to perform kettlebell exercises. The device has a pair of arms that lock onto a dumbbell, forming a handle that facilitates use of the dumbbell in kettlebell workouts. This invention will be appreciated by those who wish to perform a variety of weight training exercises without purchasing numerous pieces of equipment.

Typically, traditional dumbbells with end weights connected via a horizontal handle member are enough for the average user's weight training needs. However, traditional exercises with dumbbells do not engage as many muscle groups or act as high-intensity aerobic training. This is why weight training using kettlebells has grown in popularity among workout enthusiasts who require the application of more advanced ballistic exercises. High-intensity ballistic training is typically associated with swing and snatch movements involving a large number of repetitions in short intervals. The kettlebell is the optimal piece of equipment for this type of training because it has a center of mass that extends beyond the hand, which simulates shoveling and other types of activities that are considered high strength and high endurance. Unfortunately, many exercise enthusiasts do not own or have access to kettlebells because it is cost prohibitive for many gyms and individuals to purchase them, especially with a variety of weight ranges. In addition to the expense, the advanced nature of kettlebell ballistic exercises may make exercise enthusiasts hesitant to purchase them without determining if ballistic exercise is appropriate and safe for their fitness requirements. Many gyms, however, do have an ample supply of dumbbells with a variety of weight ranges. A solution to this problem is to provide a weight lifting apparatus that safely and easily connects to and retains a traditional dumbbell such that the dumbbell can perform as a kettlebell for high-intensity ballistic training.

Dumbbell connectors and similar weight lifting apparatus typically enable the user to reduce the amount of weight lifting equipment required for workouts. These devices provide the additional benefits of providing a means for spotting a dumbbell user, enable an adjustable kettlebell handle, provide specially designed straps for dumbbells, and provide means to convert dumbbells into kettlebells.

In all of these types of devices, none can be effectively and safely used to convert a traditional dumbbell into a kettlebell.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to dumbbell connection mechanisms and devices that convert dumbbells into kettlebells. These include devices that have been patented and published in patent application publications. These generally relate to specially designed dumbbell systems, devices for safer and easier spotting and storage, and complex attachment mechanisms. The following is a list of prior art deemed most relevant to the present disclosure that are described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the unique aspects of the present invention and further highlighting the drawbacks existing in the prior art.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,743,017 to Jaeger is one such device that describes a dumbbell attachment apparatus to quickly add weight to a traditional dumbbell in increments smaller than those usually provided with dumbbell kits. The device includes an auxiliary weight member with a handle and outer legs that extend therefrom. The outer legs have a simple releasable clip such that the auxiliary weight can be attached to the dumbbell with a push-on motion. While the device provides a useful means to quickly add weight to a traditional dumbbell, it cannot be used to convert a dumbbell to a kettlebell. The releasable clip structure would prohibit the user from safely performing kettlebell exercises as kettlebell exercises are typically performed with powerful swinging motions. The dumbbell would detach from the weight member potentially causing serious injury to others or damage to nearby equipment. The structure of the present invention provides a complete locking mechanism and stabilizing cushions to ensure that the dumbbell is safely locked and secure while performing kettlebell exercises.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,573,484 to Carpenter is another device that describes a dumbbell attachment apparatus that can be used as a handle for a spotter and also add weight to the dumbbell. The device has a threaded stud attached to a pair of weighted hook members. The threaded stud is used as a handle and can be adjusted to fit different sized dumbbells and to secure the device on the dumbbell. While the device provides a handle with arm members, the specially shaped hook provides an opening that would make the device unsafe to perform as a kettlebell adaptor for a dumbbell.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,052,445 to Ekhaus describes an adjustable kettlebell device that can be used with standard weight discs. The device has a handle with a flexible attachment member and a support bar. The flexible attachment member expands and contracts to accommodate the different widths of required weight. The flexible attachment member also has holes and patterns to receive the support bar. The support bar is a large bolt that is used to secure various weight discs to the device. While the device provides a functional and adjustable kettlebell, users that do not have access to weight discs cannot use the device and many users do not prefer the added time and mess associated with exercising with weight discs.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,436,016 to Valentino describes a specially designed dumbbell and dumbbell suspension hook for professional body builders used to eliminate the need for a spotter while increasing safety and convenience with heavier dumbbells. The device has a U-shaped handle, a support bar, and a suspension hook. The U-shaped handle is permanently attached to the support bar and is used to suspend the dumbbell from the suspension hook. The support bar has a gripping section to hold the weight, a transition section to mount the handle and act as a stop for weights, and a weight section to mount various weight discs. The suspension hook is J-shaped and sloped in order to receive the U-shaped handle when the user has completed exercising. While providing a handle for dumbbells, the device can only be used with a specific and specially designed dumbbell and the handle cannot be removed and attached to traditional dumbbells to enable the user to perform kettlebell exercises.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,458,921 to Haller describes a specially designed dumbbell and dumbbell strap to improve the exercise experience by allowing the user to grip the dumbbell and have the dumbbell strap rest on the back of the hand thereby reducing the risk of inadvertently dropping the dumbbell during exercise. The strap can also be used to better facilitate moving the dumbbell. The strap is one continuous piece of elastically deformable material and has a central portion and a substantially rounded coupling portion. The dumbbell has a specially designed grove or coupling portion around the end weights to enable the strap to be elastically secured. While providing a handle for dumbbells, the device can only be used with a specific and specially designed set of dumbbells and cannot be removed and attached to traditional dumbbells to enable the user to perform kettlebell exercises.

Finally, U.S. Patent Application Publication 2011/0111929 to Allison describes a dumbbell attachment device used to convert a traditional dumbbell to a kettlebell or use as an improved dumbbell. The device has an elongated handle bar, two jaw members, and a locking pin. The jaw members are spring loaded and pivotally connected to the handle bar to provide a releasable connection to a dumbbell. The jaw members are locked in place with a pivoting member on one jaw that is placed over a pin on the second jaw. While providing a handle attachment for dumbbells in order to perform kettlebell exercises, the device is specifically designed to have an open portion on the bottom that easily detaches from the dumbbell, which could pose a safety risk even with a locking pin. The large amount of weight and stress involved in high-intensity kettlebell training, especially with kettlebell swinging exercises, requires a device that eliminates any potential risk of the dumbbell being inadvertently released from the handle and becoming a projectile that can cause serious injury or property damage.

None of the prior art provide the benefits inherent in the present invention nor do they suggest the present invention. The prior art consists of overly complex and expensive designs or proprietary systems that are not typically available to the workout enthusiasts. Therefore, there is a need for a novel and useful dumbbell attachment device that quickly, easily, and safely retains a traditional dumbbell to perform as a kettlebell. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of dumbbell attachment devices now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new dumbbell attachment device wherein the same can be utilized for converting a traditional dumbbell into a kettlebell using a portable handle structure that is safely secured to the traverse member of a dumbbell.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved dumbbell attachment device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a dumbbell attachment device that converts a traditional dumbbell into a weight suitable for use as a kettlebell, wherein the device comprises a kettlebell style handle member and a pair of arm members extending downward therefrom.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a dumbbell attachment device that is rapidly attachable via a clamping mechanism around the traverse member of a traditional dumbbell.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dumbbell attachment device that safely locks a dumbbell in place in order to perform kettlebell exercises.

A final object of the present invention is to provide a dumbbell attachment device that stabilizes the dumbbell in place during kettlebell exercises via cushions attached to the dumbbell clamping device.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the present invention that is positioned to receive a traditional dumbbell, wherein each clamping mechanism is in an open position and the locking mechanism is unlocked.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the present invention with a traditional dumbbell properly secured, wherein the clamping mechanism is in a closed position and the locking mechanism is locked.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the clamping mechanism rotating motion and the locking mechanism sliding motion.

FIG. 4 shows a front view of the locking mechanism optional channel guide feature that retains the locking sleeve.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the clamping mechanism in the closed position with stabilizing cushions along the interior surface thereof for slidably retaining the dumbbell transverse member.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the dumbbell attachment device. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for safely converting a traditional dumbbell into a kettlebell using a handle with a pair of arms that clamp and lock to the dumbbell. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of the dumbbell retention device 11 of the present invention. The device comprises an elongated handle member 12 connected to a pair of arm members 14 forming a U-shape. The arm members 14 extend substantially downward therefrom in order for the apparatus to function as a kettlebell armature. Each arm member 14 has a dumbbell retention assembly 42 that comprises a clamping mechanism 15 and a locking mechanism 16. The clamping mechanism 15 and locking mechanism 16, as shown, are in their open and unlocked positions. The arm members 14 are connected via a traverse connection member 13 to add structural stability to the apparatus while in use, particularly with heavy dumbbells and during ballistic exercises. The traverse connection member 13 can also be used as an alternative handle to move the apparatus.

The entire apparatus may be made out of metal, plastic, or composite material. Different combinations of material can also be used to decrease weight and cost. The handle member 12 is preferably a tubular structure that can be constructed by being bent, formed, or attached to the arm members 14. The arm members 14 are also preferably tubular structures and can also be constructed by being bent, formed, or attached to the retention assembly 42. The handle member 12 and arm members 14 may also be solid members.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a perspective view of the dumbbell retention device 11 of the present invention with a traditional dumbbell 17 inserted into the clamping mechanism 15. In the preferred embodiment the user inserts the dumbbell traverse member 18 into the clamping mechanism 15, moves the clamping mechanism into a closed position and then moves the locking mechanism 16 into a locked position.

The arm members 14 are separated by a distance and having an outer extent that is shorter than the handle member length, such that the device 11 may be properly positioned between the dumbbell end weights 19 without interference. The separation also provides enough distance from the dumbbell center of mass 22 to distribute the weight more evenly on the user's hands, thereby decreasing the risk of injury to the user. In the preferred embodiment, the handle member length will be sufficiently elongated to comfortably accommodate two hands, at a minimum, such that the user may perform one or two-handed kettlebell exercises. The handle member 12 has a handle member cushion 24 to enhance user grip and comfort while performing kettlebell exercises. In alternative embodiments, the handle member dimension and the arm member separation can vary substantially depending on user preferences and the size and type of dumbbell utilized.

The clamping mechanism 15 is a rotatable member that is adapted to conform to the outer surface of the dumbbell transverse member 18 and secure thereto. The mechanism 15 is comprised of a pair of half tubular structures that are hinged together, whereby the structures can freely pivot from an open position to a closed position whereby the mechanism provides a hollow cylinder within which the support the dumbbell transverse member. The hollow, semicircular structure is a clamp 20 that is shaped to fit a dumbbell traverse member 18, which is typically cylindrical with a constant diameter. In alternative embodiments, the clamp ring portion 20 will be sized and shaped to fit different dumbbell traverse member designs such as an ellipsoidal member and other ergonomic improvements to dumbbell traverse members.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a detailed perspective view of the clamping mechanism 15 and locking mechanism 16. In operation, the user stations the device 11 in an upright position adjacent to a dumbbell traverse member 18. The user inserts the dumbbell traverse member 18 into the open, non-rotatable portion 36 of the clamp mechanism. With rotatable motion 29, the user clamps the dumbbell traverse member 18 into the clamp mechanism rotatable portion 37. For ease of use, the clamp mechanism rotatable portion 37 preferably has a maximum rotation angle with respect to the non-rotatable portion 36 so the rotatable portion 37 is readily available for the user to grasp and secure without excessive searching. The clamp mechanism rotatable portion 37 rotates via a pinned hinge 25, which establishes the clamp axis of rotation. Once rotated upward, the clamp mechanism is now in a closed position. A spring-loaded locking pin 27 is inserted through the clamp mechanism rotatable portion through an aperture therealong 38, whereafter a sliding locking mechanism 16 can be engaged over the exposed end of the rotatable portion 37 and the spring-loaded locking pin 27.

The locking mechanism 16 comprises a hollow, sliding locking member 28 with a locking pin through-hole 33 and a spring-loaded locking pin 27 attached to the non-rotatable portion 37 of the clamping mechanism 15. A user operates the locking mechanism 16 with a push motion 32 to depress the spring-loaded locking pin 27, whereafter the locking member 28 slides downward 30 until the spring-loaded locking pin 27 is properly engaged within the locking pin through-hole 33. The user repeats the clamping and locking operations for both sides of the apparatus when securing the dumbbell to the device 11. The user is thereafter able to perform kettlebell exercises using a traditional dumbbell in an extremely easy and safe manner, wherein the dumbbell is secured and will not liberate from the device 11 without the user actively disengaging the locking mechanism 16.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown an embodiment of the locking mechanism 16 that incorporates a locking mechanism channel guide feature 39. The locking member sleeve 28 has boss 40 on its interior surface that engages a locking groove 41. The locking groove 41 is a channel cut into the arm member 14 in an L-shaped configuration to allow the locking member sleeve 28 to be quickly positioned in the proper locking orientation and to prevent the locking member 28 from unnecessarily sliding downward when the user is attempting to position a dumbbell into the clamping mechanism. This feature improves securing the device to a dumbbell and acts as a temporary retainer for the locking sleeve 28.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a cross section view of the clamping mechanism 15, wherein stabilizing cushions 26 are provided along the interior surfaces of the clamping mechanism 15 where the dumbbell transverse member makes contact therewith. Adhered to the surface of each clamping mechanism 15 clamp ring portion 20 are stabilizing cushions 26 that prevent the dumbbell traverse member from unwanted sliding during use. The stabilizing cushions 26 also provide dimensional relief of the clamp rings so that the apparatus can adapt to minor changes in size and shape of dumbbell traverse members. The stabilizing cushions 26 are made from gasket-like material with a durometer typically applied to weight-lifting devices.

The unique configuration of the dumbbell retention assembly 42 of the present invention allows the extreme loads exerted by the dumbbell on the apparatus during intense kettlebell exercise to be spread across the entire device. This makes the device very safe to use with little to no risk of failure potentially causing personal injury or property damage. Overall, the present invention is submitted as a new and novel weightlifting assembly that allows one to transform a traditional dumbbell into a kettlebell device for ballistic exercises.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1) A dumbbell retention device, comprising:

a handle member having a first and second elongated arm member having a first end attached to a transverse member and a second free end, forming a substantially U-shaped handle;

a retention assembly secured to each handle member free end;

said retention assemblies comprising a locking mechanism and a clamping mechanism and adapted to secure to a dumbbell transverse member.

2) The device of claim 1, wherein said clamping mechanism comprises a non-rotatable clamping portion and a rotatable clamping portion connected by a clamp hinge.

3) The device of claim 2, wherein said clamp hinge has a maximum rotation angle.

4) The device of claim 2, wherein said non-rotatable clamping portion and said rotatable clamping portion further comprise inner surfaces having stabilizing cushions adhered thereto.

5) The device of claim 2, wherein:

said non-rotatable clamping portion and said rotatable clamping portion have a half tubular extension and a half ring portion, wherein said half tubular members mate when said clamping mechanism is in a closed position;

each of said half ring portions is a hollow semicircular cylinder with an inner surface and outer surface;

said half ring portions being connected by a clamp hinge;

said inner surface of said clamp ring portions further comprise stabilizing cushions therealong.

6) The device of claim 1, wherein said locking mechanism comprises:

a slidable locking member sleeve and a spring-loaded locking pin;

said locking member sleeve comprising a hollow sliding member with an inner surface and a locking pin through-hole, wherein said locking member can slide along said elongated arm member to secure over said clamping mechanism when in a closed position;

said spring-loaded locking pin attached through said clamping mechanism and engaging said locking pin through-hole on said slidable locking member sleeve when said slidable locking member sleeve is positioned over said clamping mechanism.

7) The device of claim 6, wherein said locking member sleeve further comprises a boss positioned within an L-shaped groove along said arm member.

8) The device of claim 1, wherein said handle member has a handle cushion.