EXERCISE BAND CLIP/CLAMP

Abstract

The present invention is an apparatus which is configured to be removably attached to a tubular member. The apparatus is configured with attachment points to which exercise apparatuses may be directly or indirectly attached.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to application 63/290,853 filed on Dec. 17, 2021.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO A “SEQUENCE LISTING,” A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON COMPACT DISC AND AN INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF THE MATERIAL ON THE COMPACT DISC

Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY AN INVENTOR OR JOINT INVENTOR

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many known benefits for people who exercise on a regular basis. Exercise can be an important factor in maintaining and living a healthy lifestyle. Exercise can help control a person's weight as well as having other health benefits. For instance, regular exercise can help prevent and/or manage many common health problems such as stroke, high blood pressure and even heart disease. Regular exercise can also be beneficial to a person's mental health. Exercise can improve a person's mood and help with issues of anxiety and depression. Regular exercise can also boost a person's energy levels.

Exercise bands are a common type of exercise equipment that can be used at home. Exercise bands can also be used by those persons who are on the go. Typically, exercise bands are relatively small and can be packed away compactly, making it easier to travel with the bands. A benefit to exercise bands is the adaptability they provide a user. An exercise band can be used in a variety of manners to perform a variety of exercises. It is common for exercise bands to be attached at a fixed or static point. Some types of exercise bands may come with an anchor to mount the band in a fixed position. Alternatively, an exercise band may have handles or other equipment attached at both ends of the band. With this type of exercise band, a user can stand on the middle of the band and utilize both ends to perform exercises.

For some people, exercising on a regular basis can be a challenge. This may be due to the person having a busy lifestyle or not having access to exercise equipment, or a combination of both these factors. For some people who are constantly on the road driving, such as a commercial truck drivers, having the option to exercise regularly may not be available to them. This could be because the driver spends a majority of the day on the road driving. It could also be because the driver does not have access to exercise equipment due to them constantly being on the road.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART INCLUDING INFORMATION DISCLOSED UNDER 37 CFR 1.97 AND 37 CFR 1.98

Not Applicable

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is an apparatus which is configured to be removably attached to a tubular member. The apparatus is configured with attachment points to which exercise apparatuses may be directly or indirectly attached.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of an exercise band clamp.

FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise band clamp attached to a tubular object.

FIG. 3 is a top view of an embodiment of an exercise band clamp in an opened orientation.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of an exercise band clamp having an adjustable clamp.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of an exercise band clamp.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a carabiner usable to attach an exercise band to the exercise band clamp of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) is susceptible of various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof have been shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the inventive concept(s) to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the inventive concept(s) as defined herein.

In the following description and in the figures, like elements are identified with like reference numerals. The use of “e.g.,” “etc,” and “or” indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation unless otherwise noted. The use of “including” means “including, but not limited to,” unless otherwise noted.

FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a first embodiment of an exercise band clamp 10. The exercise band clamp 10 has a first arm 18 and a second arm 19. The first arm 18 and second arm 19 are semi-circular. The first arm 18 and second arm 19 are connected by a hinge 16. The hinge 16 is configured to allow the exercise band clamp 10 to open and close. In the closed position, as depicted in FIG. 1, the first arm 18 and second arm 19 form an endless loop. The exercise band clamp 10 is configured to circumvolve a tubular object 12, such as a grille guard or brush guard on a vehicle. The exercise band clamp 10 is configured to fully engage around a tubular object. The exercise band clamp 10 also has a connector 11. The connector 11 is positioned substantially opposite the hinge 16. The connector 11 is configured to attach the first arm 18 to the second arm 19 and secure the two arms together. In one embodiment, the connector 11 comprises a clasp 14. Other mechanisms that are suitable for securing the two arms 18 and 19 together may also be used. The exercise band clamp 10 also has an exercise band attachment mechanism 12. The exercise band attachment mechanism 13 is configured to securely attach an exercise band to the exercise band clamp 10. The exercise band attachment mechanism 13 may be in the form of an opening that is formed in the first arm 18 or second arm 19. Other types of exercise band attachment mechanisms, such as ties, clips, or rings may also be used. Alternatively, there may be no exercise band attachment mechanism whereby an exercise band is attached directly to an exercise band clamp.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of a first embodiment of the exercise band clamp 10 in a closed position without the tubular object. Optionally, the exercise band clamp 10 has a spacer 20 that lines the inside of the first arm 18 and second arm 19. The spacer 20 is configured to provide cushion to the device when it is attached to a tubular object. The spacer 20 may be formed from rubber or plastic material. Alternatively, other material suitable to provide cushion to the device may be used.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of a first embodiment of the exercise band clamp 10. The hinge 16 allows the first arm 18 and second arm 19 of the exercise band clamp 10 to separate and open. The opening of the first arm 18 and second arm 19 opposite the hinge 16 allows the exercise band clamp 10 to be positioned around a tubular object. When positioned around a tubular object, the connector 14 is configured to securely attach the first arm 18 to the second arm 19. In the depicted embodiment, the connector 14 is a clasp 11. The clasp 11 is preferably attached 30 to the second arm 19. Alternatively, the clasp may be formed as an integral part of the second arm 19. The clasp 11 preferably has a tongue 14. The tongue 14 projects forward from the attached 32 end of the clasp 14. The second arm 18 of the exercise band clamp 10 has a corresponding receiving member 30. The receiving member 30 is configured to receive a portion of the tongue 31 of a clasp 11 and secure the tongue 31 therein. In the depicted embodiment, the receiving member 30 is positioned on the first arm 18 to receive the tongue 31 and secure it thereto when the exercise band clamp is closed.

In certain embodiments, the adjustable clasp is integral to the second arm. Alternatively, the adjustable clasp may be removably attached to the first arm. Yet as another alternative, the adjustable clasp may also be adjustable up and down the first arm. The adjustable clasp has a tongue that projects forward from the attached end of the adjustable clasp. The second arm of the exercise band clamp has at least two receiving members. Preferably, the second arm has a plurality of receiving members. The receiving members are spaced apart from one another to allow a user to secure the exercise band clamp to a tubular object of varying diameters. The tongue is configured to securely attach the adjustable clasp onto at least one of the receiving members. Depending on the diameter required, the tongue may be attached to more than one receiving members. The diameter created by a closed exercise band clamp is adjustable depending on which receiving member the tongue is attached to.

FIG. 4 illustrates a second embodiment of an exercise band clamp 400. The exercise band clamp 400 is configured to attach to a tubular object 402. Preferably, the exercise band clamp is circular. The exercise band clamp 400 has a first arm 404 and a second arm 406. The first arm 404 and the second arm 406 are connected together at a first hinge 408. The hinge 408 is configured to allow the first arm 404 and second arm 406 to be opened and closed. Opposite from the hinge 408 is a connector 410. The connector 410 is configured to securely attach the first arm 404 to the second arm 406 when in a closed positioned. In certain embodiments, the connector 410 is an adjustable hinge. In alternative embodiments, the connector may be an adjustable clasp 11. In a preferred embodiment, the first arm and/or second arm are configured with one or more apertures 412 to which an exercise band may be directly or indirectly attached. Alternative connectors may also be used, such as straps or ties, buckles, or other connectors to secure the opposing arms together so that the exercise band clamp 400 circumvolves a tubular object.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the second embodiment of an exercise band clamp 400. The exercise band clamp 400 has a first arm 404 and a second arm 406. The first arm 404 and second arm 406 are connected at one end by a hinge 408. The hinge 406 is configured to allow the exercise band clamp 400 to be opened and/or closed. Opposite from the hinge 408, the first arm 404 and second arm 408 have a second hinge 410. In a preferred embodiment, at least one of hinges 408 and 410 are adjustable. In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable hinges comprise a bolt 502, a threaded pin 504, and a non-threaded pin 506. The pins are preferably connected to the first or second arms. The diameter of the exercise band clamp may be adjusted by screwing the bolt 502 against the non-threaded pin 506 into or out of the threaded pin 504.

In an alternative embodiment, the exercise band clamp further comprises a plurality of rings attached to an arm of the exercise band clamp to which an exercise band may be attached. In another alternative embodiment, the first and second arms also have a pair of opposing flanges. The first arm is configure with a first flange and the second arm is configured with a second flange. The first flange and second flange are configured to attach the first arm to the second arm. The flanges are configured such that the first arm and second arm can be separated from one another. The first flange and second flange can be attached together using a nut and bolt or other types of connectors to secure the two arms together. The bolt is positioned through the respective apertures and the nut is tightened to an end thereof. Alternatively, the opposing flanges may be attached together using a locking pin or other mechanism to secure the two sides together.

The exercise band clamp 400 has at least one exercise band attachment feature 412 positioned on at least one arm thereof. Any size or quantity of exercise band attachment features may be used. Elongated exercise band attachment features 13 allow force on an exercise band to be more radially directed. The exercise band attachment feature 412 may be positioned anywhere along the first arm or second arm. The exercise band attachment feature 412 is configured to attach an exercise band to the exercise band clamp. In one embodiment, the exercise band attachment feature may be a ring that is positioned on one or more arms. Alternatively, the exercise band attachment mechanism may be formed as an integral part to one or more arms. In certain embodiments, the exercise band attachment mechanism is movable up and down the arm of the exercise band clamp to which it is attached.

Optionally, the exercise band clamp has a spacer 508 that lines the inside of the first arm 404 and second arm 406. The spacer 508 is configured to provide cushion to the device when it is attached to a tubular object. The spacer 508 may be formed from rubber or plastic material. Alternatively, other material suitable to provide cushion to the device may be used.

The exercise band clamp device disclosed herein is configured to attach to an attaching end of an exercise band. Alternatively, the exercise band clamp can be attached to other exercising equipment such as resistance tubes and/or resistance bands.

Still other features and advantages of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description describing preferred embodiments of the inventive concept(s), simply by way of illustration of the embodiments contemplated by carrying out the inventive concept(s). As will be realized, the inventive concept(s) is capable of modification in various obvious respects all without departing from the inventive concept(s). Accordingly, the drawings and description of the preferred embodiments are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive in nature.

While certain exemplary embodiments are shown in the figures and described in this disclosure, it is to be distinctly understood that the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) is not limited thereto but may be variously embodied to practice within the scope of this disclosure. From the foregoing description, it will be apparent that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates a carabiner. In certain embodiments, the exercise band attachment feature 412 is sized such that a carabiner may be attached to the exercise band clamp through the exercise band attachment feature 412 and to which an exercise band or other object may be attached.

Claims

1. An exercise band clamp device, said exercise band clamp comprising:

A) a first arm,

B) a second arm,

C) a plurality of connectors connecting said first arm to said second arm disposed not more than 180 degrees from each other configured to capture a tubular member when said a connector is in a closed configuration and to release said tubular member when a connector is in an open configuration,

D) at least one exercise band attachment mechanism, wherein said exercise band attachment mechanism is positioned along said first arm of said exercise band clamp, wherein said exercise band attachment mechanism is configured to receive and attach, directly or indirectly, an exercise band to said exercise band clamp; and

E) wherein said first arm and said second arm form an enclosed loop when said connector is an a closed position and wherein said first arm and said second arm are configured to circumvolve a tubular member.

2. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1 wherein a first of said two connectors is a hinged connector wherein said first member is removable relative to said second member while said first member is connected to said second member.

3. The exercise band clamp device of claim 2, wherein a second of said two connectors is a clasp, wherein said clasp is integrally attached to said first arm and wherein said clasp has a tongue protruding forward from an attached end, wherein said second arm further comprises a corresponding receiving member, wherein said receiving member is configured to receive said tongue of said clasp and securely attach said first arm to said second arm.

4. The exercise band clamp device of claim 3, wherein said clasp is adjustable.

5. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1, wherein a first of said plurality of connectors is a pair of opposing flanges, wherein said pair of opposing flanges have a pair of central apertures, wherein said pair of central apertures are configured to receive a nut and bolt to secure the central apertures of said respective arms together.

6. The exercise band clamp device of claim 5, wherein a second of said plurality of connectors is a pair of opposing flanges, wherein said pair of opposing flanges have a pair of central apertures, wherein said pair of central apertures are configured to receive a nut and bolt to secure the central apertures of said respective arms together.

7. The exercise band clamp device of claim 6, wherein a nut and bolt of a first of said pair of opposing flanges is adjustable.

8. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1, wherein said device comprises a plurality of exercise band attachment mechanisms, wherein a first exercise band attachment mechanism is positioned on said first arm and wherein a second exercise band attachment mechanism is positioned on said second arm.

9. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1, wherein said exercise band attachment mechanism is a metal ring.

10. The exercise band clamp device of claim 8 wherein said metal ring comprises a reclosable opening comprising:

A) an opening in said metal ring,

B) a closing member,

C) a member configured to retain said closing member in a closed orientation enclosing said metal ring.

11. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1, wherein an inside of said first arm further comprises a spacer element and an inside of said second arm further comprises a spacer element, wherein said spacer element is configured to provide a cushion between said exercise band clamp and the tubular object it has been attached too.

12. The exercise band clamp device of claim 10 wherein said spacer element of said first arm and said spacer of said second arm:

A) are deformable and

B) have a high coefficient of friction on a face configured to contact said tubular object.

13. The exercise band clamp device of claim 1 wherein at least one of said exercise band attachment mechanisms is elongated extending along the length of an arm a distance greater than the radial distance of said exercise band attachment mechanism.