Having Guide Around Or Through Weight Patents (Class 482/98)
  • Patent number: 7137932
    Abstract: A dumbbell adjusting system comprises an adjusting system, a stand, and a locking mechanism. The adjusting system includes two rods on the dumbbell's handle which move in and out of the handle to selectively engage the inner threaded through holes of the weights. The weights are configured to interlock with one another so as not to move independently. The locking mechanism unlocks the weights from the handle when the dumbbell is in the stand, allowing the user to select the desired weight, and locks the weights into the handle when the dumbbell is lifted out of the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: Adam T. Doudiet
  • Patent number: 7137930
    Abstract: An improved adjustable weight training apparatus is provided. The weight training apparatus includes a central collar portion, that further includes one or more elongated handles. In addition, each handle includes a gripping portion and a connecting end that attaches to a corresponding end of the central collar. Additionally each handle includes gripping protrusions that attach to a corresponding end of the elongated handles. The weight training apparatus further includes an angled weight support attachment that is received into the central collar and secured by a retaining pin or other similar device. In one preferred embodiment the angled weight support attachment may be pivoted and secured in a substantially upward position or in a substantially downward position. Weights may be retained by a sliding collar or similar means on the angled weight support attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventor: John Patrick Carr
  • Patent number: 7101322
    Abstract: A weight training device for providing substantially uniform resistance throughout the range of motion of each of a variety of weight lifting exercises. Upstanding front and rear stanchions are attached to front and rear portions of a base, respectively. In a first embodiment, the front stanchion is rigidly attached to the base, the rear stanchion is pivotally attached to the base, and a lever arm assembly is pivotally attached to the front stanchion and includes a dolly cage attached to the rear stanchion that forces the rear stanchion to pivot toward and away from the front stanchion as the assembly is pivoted in a vertical plane by a weight trainee against the resistance of weight suspended from the assembly. In a second embodiment, the front stanchion is mounted for reciprocal, vertical motion on a rod attached to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Inventor: John T. Carle
  • Patent number: 7083553
    Abstract: The dumbbell is a weight lifting device. The dumbbell comprises a one piece barrel having integral metal alloy blocks on either side. Transverse and integral holes on the blocks on the end allow insertion of common or modified weight lifting bars. Integral holes on the blocks also have the property of being able to thread in weight slugs of varying poundage and designs in various combinations with the aforementioned weight lifting bars lifting bars. The barrel or handle has a threaded insert in the middle providing the insertion of a ring attachment that would provide an alternate means of mounting on a weight lifting bar. The dumbbell can be mounted on a weight lifting bar via the transverse holes on either head or thru the removable attachment on the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Ramon Leon
  • Patent number: 7077791
    Abstract: An exercise dumbbell has at least one weight selector that is rotatable into engagement with various combination of weights at opposite ends of the handle. On a first embodiment, first and second weight selectors are rotatably mounted on opposite ends of a bar for independent rotation relative to the handle. On a second embodiment, first and second weight selectors are keyed to a common bar and rotated together therewith relative to the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Mautilus, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 7074169
    Abstract: A wheel-guiding device comprises a handle connected to a member of a U-shaped member and the handle is preferably essentially perpendicular to a plane of the U-shaped member for guiding the motion of a preferably wheel. The handle is extendable for adjusting the length of the wheel-guiding device. The wheel's motion is controlled with the wheel-guiding device by engaging the U-shaped member and pushing on the wheel with the wheel-guiding device causing the wheel to both rotate and move in various directions or to stop movement of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Vasil T. Hristov
  • Patent number: 7070543
    Abstract: An exercise machine utilizes the inherent capabilities of human muscles to exert greater forces during eccentric functions than during concentric functions. The exercise machine comprises a leverage arm pivotally connected to a frame. A force station is at a first distance from the pivotal connection. During a concentric muscle function, a person lifts first weights on the leverage arm. At the end of the concentric muscle function, a spotter applies a small force to the leverage arm at a second distance greater than the first distance from the pivotal connection. The small force produces a magnified load at the force station that the person resists during an eccentric muscle function. The leverage arm may be adjustable relative to the floor. The weight of the leverage arm may be counterbalanced. Various embodiments of the exercise machine utilize the same principles of physics for exercising different muscles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Randy Rindfleisch
  • Patent number: 7048678
    Abstract: An inexpensive to manufacture dumbbell hardware design with secure, tight tolerance, non-rotating weights having a central handle with ends having a geometric shape and a central bore at least part way through each end, a means for securing one or more weights to the handle located at least partially within the central bore, and one or more weights, each including an interior element and a cast resistance, wherein the interior element provides tight tolerance with the handle having a circumference and a generally central void of a shape complementary to the geometric shape of the central handle, wherein the wherein the weights are secured by a locking bolt have corresponding threads with the central bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Technical Knockout, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Harms, Eugenio Segovia, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7037244
    Abstract: A therapeutic arm exercise device which includes a vertical supporting frame for mounting on a vertical wall surface. An upright elongated exercise base board is pivotally secured relative to the frame for selectively positioning and retaining the board at different angles from vertical to less than vertical. An elongated track is provided on the outer surface of the board and a weight slide is slidably received on this track and is provided with a handle whereby a patient may manually slide the slide up and down along the track for rehabilitation exercise. In addition, the vertical position of the device may be adjusted on the wall. Also, the amount of weight for the slide may be adjusted. Indicia is provided on the board adjacent the track for indicating distance that the slide is moved by the patient upwardly along the track and a biofeedback annunciator is also provided to indicate attainment of a goal distance of upward movement along the track by the slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Robert John Svihra, Ronald Henry Cardinale
  • Patent number: 7004890
    Abstract: A leg press exercise machine comprises: a frame; a seat unit attached to the frame; a press mechanism attached to the frame, the press mechanism including a foot panel and at least one swing link pivotally interconnected with the frame; a resistance-imparting unit operatively connected with the press mechanism; and a resistance coupling mechanism attached to the press mechanism and the resistance-imparting unit. The press mechanism is configured such that the foot panel is movable along a generally longitudinal stroke path between a retracted position and a fully extended position. The resistance-imparting unit provides resistance to the foot panel as it moves from the retracted position to the fully extended position. The resistance coupling mechanism includes a drawing link pivotally interconnected with the swing link and a control link pivotally interconnected with the drawing link and the press mechanism. The control link is further attached to the resistance-imparting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Nautilus Human Performance Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Mickey J. Hall
  • Patent number: 6994660
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for exercise machines having balancing loads. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a load guide pivotable through at least one plane of freedom, a load slideably engaged with the load guide, a lift arm having a first end coupled to the load guide, and a cable-and-pulley device. The cable-and-pulley device is operatively coupled to the load and to the lift arm so that a training force applied to the lift arm induces a lift force on the load. The exercise machine requires the user to balance the load as the load is raised, providing a more enhanced workout. In alternate embodiments, the load guide may include at least one rocker engageable with the floor surface, or may be pivotably coupled to a support frame (or base) so that the load guide does not contact the floor surface. In another embodiment, the load guide may include a base having a convex surface engageable with the floor surface, the load guide being pivotable in any direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: A. Buell Ish, III, L. Kent Lines, William D. MacLean
  • Patent number: 6926649
    Abstract: A self-spotting apparatus for free-weights [2301] utilizes a pair of weight-responsive engagement assemblies [1203A, 1203B] engaging a respective pair of support columns [1207A, 1207B] to provide engageable support for a free-weight bar [2311]. Auxiliary stops [2203A, 2203B] limit the lowest position of the free-weight bar. The auxiliary stops are adjustable by manual or electrical disengagement from the support columns. A control unit [2302] provides disengagement logic for barbells and dumbbells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Michael D. Slawinski
  • Patent number: 6905446
    Abstract: A self-spotting free weight device wherein the free weights are retained by arms which are pivotal in the horizontal plane of the arm and wherein the supporting arms are also pivotally supported from a support structure such that they move in a plane perpendicular to the plane in which the free weights may be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Darrell Greenland
  • Patent number: 6902516
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a vertical stack of weights, including a top plate, and at least one additional weight disposed adjacent the top plate. The additional weight may be a plate having a height, a width, and a thickness that is smaller than the width and smaller than the height, and arranged so that its thickness extends horizontally toward the stack of weights, and/or multiple additional weights may be arranged to define a horizontal array on at least one side of the stack of weights. The additional weight(s) may be movably mounted on the frame for movement along a path defined by interfaces between opposite outer surfaces of the weight(s) and respective guide surfaces on the frame. A selector rod may be movably mounted on the top plate for movement into and out of engagement with one or more of the additional weights, and/or arranged to define a longitudinal axis that extends through all of the additional weights and perpendicular to the stack of weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6875161
    Abstract: A weight lifting system including a handle or bar that is adapted to be connected to a weight plate. The weight plate includes a central opening that extends through the weight plate. One end portion of the handle is inserted into one end of the opening within the weight plate. A bolt is extended into the opening of the weight plate, from the opposite side, and threaded into a threaded bore formed axially within the end portion. A shoulder is formed intermediately within the opening of the weight plate. As the bolt is turned and threaded into the threaded bore, the end portion of the handle is drawn towards the shoulder while a head portion of the bolt moves towards the shoulder. By securely tightening the bolt within the threaded bore, the bolt head is brought into contact with the shoulder and thereby the inward movement of the bolt is limited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: John P. Brice
  • Patent number: 6872173
    Abstract: An exercise dumbbell includes a handle and weights that are selectively latched to opposite ends of the handle. A base is provided to support the handle and the weights when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6824505
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes at least one body-building structure, and at least one damping structure serving to bring about a damping effect. The body-building structure is provided with an actuating pulley serving to actuate one or more weighted pulleys of the damping structure in conjunction with a cable. The actuating pulley adds a buffer to the damping effect, thereby preventing a sharp impact from inflicting an injury on a body part of an exerciser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventor: Fu-Chen Chang
  • Patent number: 6811521
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sporting apparatus (1) to carry out exercises according to the natural physiological trajectory of each person, comprising a support structure (2), or frame, provided with lateral elements (11), with base or resting elements (4) for said lateral elements (11), and with at least a transverse element (19) for fixing said lateral elements (11), the sporting apparatus (1) further providing two sliding elements (3), or poles, substantially vertically provided in correspondence of said lateral elements (11) of the frame (2), said sliding elements (3) being hinged above the same lateral elements (11), and being freely oscillating along said base (4) or resting elements of said lateral elements (11), and provided with guide means (6, 7) to guide the sliding of a weight (9) bearing bar (8); and a counterweight transverse element (10), provided above said sliding elements (3), in such a way to join the same, thus creating a single oscillating structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Laser Fit di Musso Giuseppe
    Inventor: Giuseppe Musso
  • Patent number: 6811522
    Abstract: An exercise with traction device comprising a frame holding a seat above the floor that has a resistance loaded backrest for the purpose of rehabilitating atrophied spinal support muscle through progressive resistance exercise while the spine is under pain alleviating traction. The backrest is resistance loaded for both traction, and extension resistance or flexion resistance. This makes needed exercise for those who are hindered from such therapy by spinal compressive related pain. The exercise resistance is transmitted to the patient via a horizontal axis backrest, and can be weighted either positively for back resistance, or negatively for abdominal resistance, at the same time traction is applied from the backrest suspension system applying resistance to the user attached to it in the direction that decompresses the spine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Andrew James McQuinn
  • Publication number: 20040166998
    Abstract: A collapsible exercise device includes a vertical support member, first and second sets of rails pivotally connected to each other, and a strut interconnecting the vertical support member and the rails. A user support platform engages the rails. First and second combination pulley-support and pull-up bars are pivotally connected to the first end of the first set of rails for movement between at least a substantially vertical position and a substantially horizontal position. First and second pulleys are slidably connected to bars and receive a cable, which is also connected to the user support platform. The exercise device is foldable such that the vertical support member, the rails and the strut are substantially parallel to each other; and the rails are extendable from the vertical support member and are alignable such that the user support platform is rollable along the first and second pulleys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: Engineering Fitness International Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Campanaro, Larry Westfall, Douglas D. McMurray
  • Patent number: 6755770
    Abstract: A weight lifting exercise machine that uses dumbbell weights for the weight resistance and for incremental weight adjustment. Dumbbells are particularly suitable since they are usable both as free weights and as incremental weights for the exercise machine. The machine includes an overall frame that stands on the floor, and at least one vertical guide rail attached to the frame. A dumbbell weight carrier is a assembled to the guide rail. The dumbbell weight carrier has a carriage that engages the guide rail. A dumbbell receptacle is attached to the carriage. The dumbbell receptacle can hold a plurality of dumbbell weights selected according to the overall weight desired by the exercising person. A weight handle is connected to the dumbbell weight carrier. The exercising person engages the weight handle and moves it against the weight resistance of the weight carrier and dumbbell weights loaded thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Philip S. Martens
  • Patent number: 6733424
    Abstract: Weights are disposed on opposite sides of a base member, and selector rods are selectively moved into engagement with the desired number of weights on each side of the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Publication number: 20040072659
    Abstract: Exercising machine (1) provided with a frame (10) (110) (210) and with at least one operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) which can be used to perform a physical exercise and comprising a load group (15) (115) (215) supported by the frame (10) (110) (210) and connected to the operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) by means of at least one cable (26) (126) (226) wound around a plurality of transmission members (25) (140) (240) supported by the frame (10) (110) (210) and arranged so as to define a path (P) for the cable (26) (126) (226); the load group (15) (115) (215) comprising at least two load units (16, 17) separate from each other and connected together by means of the said cable (26) (126) (226) and arranged at ends of the path (P) on opposite sides of the operating apparatus (30) (130) (230) so that the latter can be tensioned on respective opposite sides by means of different loads.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Nerio Alessandri, Antonio Cascini, Federico Martini, Simone Casagrande
  • Patent number: 6719672
    Abstract: A weight stack adjusting mechanism is provided for an exercise machine having a frame, an operating mechanism movably connected to the frame, a resisting structure on the frame and a connecting device entrained about a first pulley and a second pulley. Both pulleys are mounted on the frame and join the operating mechanism with the resisting structure so as to selectively allow moving the resisting structure between a raised position and a lowered position. The system includes a first guide rod, a second guide rod, a third guide rod, and a fourth guide rod, each being supported by the frame. The resisting structure is formed by a primary weight stack movably mounted on the first and second guide rods, and a supplementary weight stack movably mounted on the third and fourth guide rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Northland Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick D. Ellis, Troy V. Waldron
  • Patent number: 6719673
    Abstract: A multi-exercise station apparatus which, when not in use, has plural cables entrained about support pulleys to obviate slack and when a selected taut cable is pulled, a distal end thereof is effective to raise a weight from a weight stack for resistance, wherein the ballast of the weight stack provides said slack function and a pulley on said exercise stack provides said resistance function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jack LaPlaca
  • Patent number: 6702723
    Abstract: A weight plate having rotatable handles is disclosed. By rotating, the handles provide a sure grip to the user, while allowing the user to perform various exercises without adjusting his or her grip on the device. The handles also facilitate the safe loading and unloading of the device on plate-loaded exercise equipment. The weight plate may thus be used as a stand-alone exercise device, as a weight plate loaded onto a barbell or dumbbell bar, or as a weight plate used on plate-loaded exercise equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Hampton Fitness Products, Ltd.
    Inventor: Craig D. Landfair
  • Patent number: 6689022
    Abstract: A weight plate lifting apparatus includes base member, an upright member attached to the base, a generally horizontal weight plate arm member attached to the upright member and a handle member attached to an upper portion of the upright member. The device allows the user to lift a desired number of weight plates by providing a handle at a location vertically above the weight plates thus reducing the distance toward the floor the user must bend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel W. Emick
  • Patent number: 6679815
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus utilizes a weight-laden frame which is grasped by the hands of a user during an exercise routine for lifting the frame from the floor during a lift phase of the exercise routine and for subsequently returning the frame to the floor during a lowering phase of the routine. To enhance the strength gains of the user, the user walks while holding the apparatus in spaced relationship with the floor following the lift phase of the routine. The frame of the apparatus is sized so that walking movements of the user are unobstructed by the frame and so that if the apparatus is dropped while the user walks while holding the apparatus, no part of the apparatus strikes the legs or feet of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Larry W. Vittone, Suzanne R. Vittone
  • Publication number: 20040002409
    Abstract: An exercise machine for performing leg curl and leg extension movements includes: a frame configured to rest on an underlying surface; an upper leg-supporting assembly pivotally interconnected with the frame, the upper leg-supporting assembly having a seat pad; a torso-supporting assembly pivotally interconnected with the frame and with the upper leg-supporting assembly, the torso-supporting assembly having a backrest pad; a leg curl assembly arm pivotally interconnected with the frame about a first pivot axis; a leg extension assembly arm pivotally interconnected with the frame about a second pivot axis; a resistance-imparting unit coupled with the leg curl movement arm and the leg extension movement arm; and a conversion mechanism interconnected with the frame and/or the torso-supporting assembly and the upper leg-supporting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Michael Wayne Morris
  • Patent number: 6669606
    Abstract: Weight supporting members are rotated into engagement with respective weight plates to provide adjustable resistance to exercise movement. On a first embodiment, the weight supports are rigidly mounted on a selector rod and rotate together therewith. On a second embodiment, the weight supports are rotatably mounted on the selector rod and rotate relative thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6666800
    Abstract: A weight stack exercise machine includes a stack of primary weights movably mounted on a frame, and at least one counter-weight which is selectively alternated between an inactive state, supported by the frame, and an active state, exerting a counter-weight force relative to the top plate in the stack of primary weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6663542
    Abstract: An adjustable, body circumfusion barbell with off-centerline moment and rotating grip is provided for facilitating correct anatomical relationships and positioning while weight training. The apparatus serves not only to allow one to derive maximum benefits when training, but also serves to avert injury. The adjustable, body circumfusion barbell with off-centerline moment and rotating grip includes a barbell defining a first countermoment end, an intermediate moment segment, and a second countermoment end. The first and second countermoment end each have weight supporting means and rotating, knurled hand grips. The intermediate moment segment includes an elongated, laterally adjustable trave perpendicularly mounted in an offset manner between a pair of extension members. The intermediate moment segment provides a window for accommodating users of various torso sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Jon Trabbic
  • Publication number: 20030220175
    Abstract: The actuator for the exercise machine is mounted to the seat to pivot about a vertically extending axis to permit the user to rotate her/his upper torso and vary the muscle groups being exercised to enhance the beneficial effects. A rotational connection between a shoulder harness element and the actuator arm facilitates this side crunching motion. A second feature which may be used separately or in conjunction with the rotational actuator, is an actuator arm with both a shoulder socket and an elbow joint that pivot, the elbow joint requires additional force to break over. This dual-pivot actuator arm permits the user to perform abdominal crunches with a predetermined resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: David L. Durfee
  • Publication number: 20030203796
    Abstract: The invention is an adjustable weight-bearing mechanism, especially the stepless adjustable weight-bearing mechanism designed for fitness exercise equipment that can be adjusted in accordance with one's weight bearing without the differentiation in weight, comprising a trough-shaped case equipped with a friction wheel, a spool, a one-way clutch, a return spring coil, a pressure plate and a pressure button. A pulling rope is coiled on the spool for the pulling of the fitness equipment with the one way clutch to control the friction wheel to rotate with the pulled pulling rope, while remains still in the reversal direction. Then the pressure plate allows it and the pressure button to adjust the friction caused by the revolving friction wheel to form the bearing weight during the pulling of the pulling rope, yet the weight can be adjusted with the pressure button to fit in with the user's exercising demand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Jao-Hsing TSAI
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Yu
  • Patent number: 6632161
    Abstract: Apparatus and a method for varying the load on an exercise machine is provided. The apparatus includes at least one load-bearing member having a plurality of receivers formed therein, and a plurality of weights in slidable communication with the at least one load-bearing member. Each of the weights has a weight selection device housed therein for selectably locking each of the weights to the receivers of the load-bearing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel Nir
  • Patent number: 6629910
    Abstract: Weights are disposed on opposite sides of a base member, and selector rods are selectively moved into engagement with the desired number of weights on each side of the base member. The resulting adjustable resistance assembly may be used on dumbbells and/or weight stacks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 6623409
    Abstract: This is an automatic locking exercise device that incorporates a one-way locking mechanism. The device includes a frame, which supports a track, preferably a pair of linear bearing rods one on each side. A guide member, or linear bearing runs on each bearing rod and is attached to a handle or bar that is grasped by a user. A one-way lock is used to provide movement of the bar along the track in an upward direction but opposes movement down. In the preferred embodiment, rotating the bar actuates a lock release. This disengages the one-way lock and enables the bar to move freely up and down along the track. If the user ever drops the weight the one-way lock automatically engages and catches the weight. Explosive power training can also be performed on the device in that the user can safely throw the weight, knowing that the weight will be automatically caught at its highest point without risk of injuring someone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: Kevin G. Abelbeck
  • Patent number: 6592498
    Abstract: Exercise devices which are arranged to replicate the feel and effect of exercising with free weights but providing resistance in two directions away from a null position are disclosed. One example of a device comprises a handle 1021 which can be grasped by an exerciser and which is mounted on an articulated arm portion 1002 which in turn is mounted to a frame 1005. A weight 1031, lever arm 1032 and hydraulic transmission means provide resistance to movement. A first arm member 1022 is pivotally mounted to allow pivotal movement about an axis. Pivotal movement about this axis in two directions away from a null position is resisted by the weight 1031. The weight 1031 also tends to urge the arm member 1022 back towards the null position. The null position can be adjusted using the hydraulic arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Patrick John Trainor
  • Patent number: 6582345
    Abstract: A weight holder device for use in combination with a weight lifting exercise apparatus that includes a stack of several plates of equal size and weight and each having a vertical central through hole to receive a vertical lifting rod with a horizontal through bore and a horizontal hole extending from the central hole to a side of the plate. The device includes a shear pin removably inserted through both the horizontal hole and the through bore and supporting a variable number of upper plates of the stack. A protruding end of the pin has an axially adjustable holder mounted thereon for releasably and tightly suspending a fractional weight therefrom, between two spaced flanges secured to and radially extending from the pin. At least one of the flanges has a locking member and is axially adjustable relative to the other flange and along the pin to releasably engage and tightly retain the weight between them via the locking member in unlocking and locking configuration respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Normand Roy
  • Patent number: 6582346
    Abstract: Cable-and-pulley devices having intermediate tension isolators for exercise machines. In one embodiment, a cable-and-pulley device includes a cable attached to a load and to a user interface, and operatively engaged with a main pulley positioned over the load, a floating pulley, and an end pulley proximate the user interface. A second user interface is attached to the floating pulley. A tension isolator is positioned on the cable at an intermediate position between the end pulley and the floating pulley so that a training force applied on a second user interface draws the tension isolator into contact with the an isolator stop. In one embodiment, the isolator stop is an intermediate pulley. Alternately, the isolator stop is a catch projecting from a frame of the exercise machine. The tension isolator effectively divides the cable into a tensioned portion and an isolated portion, thereby reducing the amount of cable that is stretched during use of the second user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: L. Kent Lines, A. Buell Ish, III
  • Patent number: 6575882
    Abstract: An exercise device comprises a load mechanism which is formed of at least one guide rod, a plurality of weights, and an adjustment rod. Each weight has at least one round hole, a through hole, an insertion slot extending from the round hole, and an elastic clamp disposed removably in the round hole and the insertion slot. The guide rod is inserted into the round hole via the insertion slot. The adjustment rod is disposed in the trough hole of the weight and is provided with a plurality of locating holes for locating an insertion pin which is used to urge a selected weight. The elastic clamp is a safety feature to prevent slippage of the weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 6575880
    Abstract: An anterior loading apparatus and a method for strengthening a user's torso inner spine and muscles thereof, and training the user to hold a correct upright posture providing awareness of the proper spinal alignment comprises a frame assembly including a base member, a pair of vertical frame members, a vertical torso support means, both affixed to and extending upwardly from the base member, and a loading beam with one end pivotally mounted at the upper section of the pair of vertical frame members and the other end extending beyond and above the top end of the vertical torso support means which is spaced apart from and aligned with a mid-plane of the pair of vertical frame members. The projecting portion of the loading beam terminates in a liftable straight-edged free end having a pad mounted thereon. At least one weight is mounted to the mid-section of the loading beam to apply a vertical load thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Prapawadee Hengtrakulsin
  • Publication number: 20030060344
    Abstract: A magnetically anchored quick release pin is provided for quickly and accurately preventing movement between two objects and/or quickly changing the relative position between two objects. One such use is in a weight lifting machine providing for variable resistance, which can be adjusted manually during a workout routine. The weight lifting machine includes one or more guides and a stack of weights which are slidably mounted on the guides and movable along the guides from a rest position to an elevated position. The weight lifting machine also includes a selector member and a lift member. Each of the weights includes an opening to receive a selector pin. The openings are aligned to define a passage through the stack of weights to allow the selector pin to couple each of the weights in the stack to the selector member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Varner David
  • Patent number: 6527682
    Abstract: A support rack for disc-like weight members for effectively and efficiently storing disc-like weight members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Roberto J. Gomez
  • Patent number: 6508748
    Abstract: Actuator assemblies for adjustment mechanisms of exercise machines. In one embodiment, an actuator assembly includes a connecting member having a first end attached to the adjustment mechanism and a second end, a shaft rotatably coupled to the exercise machine proximate the second end, an actuating handle attached to the shaft, and a coupling member attached to the second end of the connecting member and having an engagement portion contacting an actuating portion of the shaft. As the shaft is rotated, the actuating portion of the shaft pushes the engagement portion of the coupling member, tensioning the connecting member and actuating the adjustment mechanism. The actuator mechanism advantageously reduces wear and breakage of the connecting member. In another embodiment, the shaft may be rotated in either a forward or an aft direction, improving the convenience of the actuator assembly for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: A. Buell Ish, III
  • Patent number: 6497639
    Abstract: A stackable weight plate for an exercise machine weight stack has a front edge, a rear edge, opposite side edges, an upper face, a lower face, and an aperture extending between the upper and lower face for receiving a weight stack selector stem. The front and rear edges having a matching arcuate curvature with one edge being convex and the other edge being concave, and the side edges are tapered at an angle from the front edge to the rear edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems
    Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Robson L. Splane, Ben Ton
  • Patent number: 6468189
    Abstract: An exercise machine, having a frame that supports a gravitational load set; the load set comprising at least a first body of determined mass movable vertically and at least a first guiding element associated to the first body; the load set comprising at least an additional guillotine load unit, selectable at will.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Technogym S.r.l.
    Inventor: Nerio Alessandri
  • Patent number: 6447431
    Abstract: A device for retrofitting onto or incorporating into a conventional weightlifting machine is provided. The device includes a charge tank and a load tank and a set of hoses for communicating fluid between the tanks. The load tank rests atop a conventional weight stack, while the charge tank rests on the floor proximal to the weightlifting machine. A fluid control means is provided for alternatively filling the load tank with water stored in the charge tank and draining the fluid back into the charge tank from the load tank, as desired. Before an exercise, the load tank is filled with water using the fluid control means. During the exercise, the fluid control means is set to allow water to drain back into the charge tank. The flow rate is set, either manually or through the use of a computer-controller, so that the weight-lifter is lifting his maximum capacity of weight during each repetition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Afterburner Fitness Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Douglas Milburn, Michel Joseph Courchesne, Thomas Joseph Andreatta
  • Patent number: 6447430
    Abstract: Exercise machine having a frame with a pair of upstanding sections disposed substantially at right angles to each other, a weight stack mounted on each of the frame sections, a cable coupled to each of the weight stacks for transferring a pull on the cable to the weights in the stack, a pulley block through which the cable is pulled, a leg connected to each of the frame sections for movement between a supporting position and a storage position, interlock means engagable between the legs and respective ones of the weight stacks for preventing the weights from being raised when the legs are in the storage position, a bench which is removably connected to the frame and can be folded up between the two frame sections for storage, a carriage mounted on each of the frame sections and adapted to be positioned at different heights, and means mounting one of the pulley blocks on each of the carriages such that each of the pulley blocks is free to pivot about two axes of rotation so that the pulley block can follow the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory M. Webb, Brian R. Cook
  • Patent number: 6447432
    Abstract: A weight stack exercise machine includes a stack of primary weights movably mounted on a frame, and secondary weight which are selectively movable between respective inactive positions, supported by the frame, and respective active positions, acting on the top plate in the primary weight stack. The frame supports the secondary weights in respective inactive positions, one above the other with a gap disposed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Mark A. Krull