And Flexible Force Transmitting Linkage Element Patents (Class 482/99)
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Patent number: 7549949Abstract: A chest press exercise machine has a self-aligning pivoting user support on a main frame and an exercise arm which is linked to the pivoting user support to translate movement of the exercise arm into movement of the user support. A user support pivot which may be a single pivot, floating pivot link, or four-bar pivot linkage arrangement pivotally connects the user support to the main frame. A connecting link is movably associated with the user engagement device or exercise arm and at least one of the main frame, user support, or user support pivot. The user support pivot is positioned so that part of the combined weight of the user and user support is positioned on both sides of the gravitational centerline throughout the exercise movement and a portion of the combined weight passes through the centerline to redistribute the weight as the exercise arm is moved.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2007Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
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Publication number: 20090149302Abstract: An exercise machine that can fold up for storage in a closet, provides a complete set of different exercises, and allows change-out of different types of engines including weight stack or weight engines and extension engines where one or more elastic members is extended such as a bungee engine. The present invention can be supplied fully cabled so that no cable installation is needed. The lower frame can be assembled by pivoting into place and can be secured with fasteners or at most two bolts. The press arms and other features can also be secured with fasteners or at most two bolts. The bottom seat/back seat can be pre-assembled and easily removable. The weight stack or bungee rack can be removed and changed or re-installed. All parts can be held in place with either fasteners or a small number or easily removable bolts.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventors: Michael Thuma, Cheng I. Chou
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Patent number: 7544156Abstract: An exercise arm apparatus has a stationary frame, a first pivoting arm pivoted to the frame at a location intermediate its ends for rotation about a first pivot axis, a second pivoting arm pivotally connected to the frame for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced from the first pivot axis, and a connecting link pivotally connected to the first arm and second arm. The first arm is an exercise arm with handles at one end for gripping by a user, and the connecting link is of sufficient weight to form a counter-weight to counter-balance the first exercise arm into a rest position corresponding to a start position for an exercise movement. In one example the connecting link is a solid, elongate bar of heavy metal or equivalent material.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2007Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.Inventor: Randall T. Webber
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Publication number: 20090143202Abstract: An apparatus, a device, and corresponding methods for exercise which involve a frame having a substantially right-angle configuration for facilitating its accommodation into a corner of a room and for optimizing its footprint in the room, a pulley system having an adjustable resistance device using a pulley ratio technique, a fixed high pull mechanism, a fixed low pull mechanism, a cross-over exercise mechanism, and a lifting bar, the lifting bar having linear bearings and handles, and the handles subtending an angle in a range of approximately 0 degrees to approximately 45 degrees.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2009Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventor: Kenneth Carter
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Patent number: 7540832Abstract: An exercise device including one or more weight stacks moveably supported on a frame. Each weight stack includes one or more weight plates that may be selectively engaged by way of a dial arrangement operably coupled with the weight stack. The dial arrangement is connected with a selection member that extends through a selection aperture in the weight plates. Each selection aperture defines a unique contour with at least one engaging surface, such as a tab. The selection member has corresponding protrusions adapted to engage the engaging surface of the weight plate. Each dial arrangement may be configured so that the weight stack may only be actuated when the selection member is properly positioned so that the protrusions properly engage the engaging surfaces. By adjusting the dial setting, the selection member is rotated so that one or more of the various protrusions engage associated engaging surfaces in order to engage some combination of weight plates. Upon actuation (i.e.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2007Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Krull
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Publication number: 20090131231Abstract: A golf exercising apparatus is provided. The apparatus can include a horizontal base member with platform, a vertical lower frame member attached to the base member and a vertical upper frame member pivotally attached to the lower frame member whereby the upper frame member can tilt side-to-side relative to the lower frame member to accommodate right-handed and left-handed golf swings. A pivoting pulley assembly can be supported at an elevated position by the upper frame member. A cable can be anchored at one end to the upper frame member or to the pulley assembly. The other end of the cable can pass through the pulley assembly and can have a handle attached thereon. The cable can be tensioned to provide resistance by suspending weights from the cable between its anchored end and the pulley assembly. The golf swing is exercised by pulling the handle in a golf swing-like motion. Increasing the weights suspended on the cable increases the resistance in the golf swing motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2008Publication date: May 21, 2009Inventor: Murray W. Smith
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Patent number: 7517304Abstract: Exercise apparatus and an assembly method therefor have a resistance-bearing cable running along an extension arm and trained around a pulley for bearing resistance for an exercise routine. The pulley is swivelable about a swivel axis along a shank mounted to the arm by a bearing housing cartridge supporting and locating the shank and insertable into a hollow end of the extension arm along an insertion direction coincident with the extension axis and the swivel axis and supporting the pulley for swiveling about the swivel axis along the shank.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Thor S. Swanson, Aaron J. Miller, Lee M. Atwood, Westin W. Nelson
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Patent number: 7507189Abstract: An exercise device including one or more weight stacks moveably supported on a frame. Each weight stack includes one or more weight plates that may be selectively engaged by way of a dial arrangement operably coupled with the weight stack. The dial arrangement is connected with a selection member that extends through a selection aperture in the weight plates. Each selection aperture defines a unique contour with at least one engaging surface, such as a tab. The selection member has corresponding protrusions adapted to engage the engaging surface of the weight plate. Each dial arrangement may be configured so that the weight stack may only be actuated when the selection member is properly positioned so that the protrusions properly engage the engaging surfaces. By adjusting the dial setting, the selection member is rotated so that one or more of the various protrusions engage associated engaging surfaces in order to engage some combination of weight plates. Upon actuation (i.e.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2005Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Krull
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Patent number: 7507190Abstract: Exercise apparatus, for example of the type disclosed in the U.S. Pat. No. 6,705,976, is provided with a resistance source for exerting a counterforce to the force applied by the user. This resistance source includes at least two of (1) means, such as a cylindrical rod or the like, for removably holding one or more weights, (2) at least one hook or the like for removably attaching one or more springs, and (3) means for removably attaching one or more damping devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2007Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
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Patent number: 7503881Abstract: An exercise machine with a bench press and a pair of weight stacks, which are operationally connected to a lifting bar of a barbell. Pushing motion on the lifting bar transmits the force to a series of wheels connected by flexible bands and to a pair of weight stacks positioned behind the bench press. The weight members of the weight stack are connected by pins, such that upward movement of the uppermost weight members causes pulling force to be applied to successive lower weight members one at a time, thereby allowing incremental increase in the resistance force to the lifting motion of the user.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Inventors: Leonard Charles Quick, Brandt Michael Quick
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Publication number: 20090062086Abstract: The present invention relates to a strength training exercise device that can be packaged in a substantially pre-assembled manner and that can be reoriented between a packaged position and a use position without the use of tools. The strength training device includes a frame, a resistance assembly, at least one exercise station, and a cable and pulley system linking the resistance assembly to the at least one exercise station. The frame includes a base portion having a stability member that can be moved between a packaged position and a use position. Similarly, an exercise station can be moved between a packaged position and a use position to facilitate packaging and shipping of the strength training device in a substantially pre-assembled manner. The cable and pulley system can link the resistance assembly to the at least one exercise station when the strength training device is in the packaged position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Inventors: William T. Dalebout, Jared R. Willardson, Michael Olson
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Patent number: 7485076Abstract: Disclosed is a weight-training machine having an independent power generating function, which may improve the exercising effect, control the weight caused by a solenoid without external power together with keeping a conventional button manner and eliminate a space limitation for installation of the machine. The weight-training machine has an independent power generating function so as to minutely adjust an exercising load without supply of external power. An operation distance between a fixing plate and a push button of a fixing device is minimized to allow one-touch manipulation. The solenoid may be operated with a lower electric energy. Thus, stacks are not shaken in right/left or front/rear direction on the basis of the fixing plate and the insert groove when a stack selected by the fixing plate and stacks upon the stack are moved up and down at the same time.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Inventor: Byung don Lee
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Publication number: 20090023562Abstract: A method and device for use in plyometric muscular training is provided. In a first version, a rigid frame is provided having a trainee's position, a pair of cables and a weighted bar. The cables are positioned between the trainee's position and the bar. Each cable is attached at an upper location and a forward location of the frame. The cables partially constrain the movement of the bar and restrain the bar from striking sections of the trainee's body. The trainee may explosively push or throw the bar away from the trainee's position and towards the cable attachment locations, wherein the bar is released from the trainee's grasp. The return pathway of the bar is determined by the force of gravity, the force provided by the trainee and the constraints of the cables. The cables reduce the risk of injury to the trainee.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2007Publication date: January 22, 2009Inventor: Matthew LaMarque
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Publication number: 20080318732Abstract: A method and exerciser for adjusting vibration magnitude includes installing a vibration module unit to a frame and a vibration magnitude adjusting unit is connected to the vibration module unit. A circuit-controller controls the vibration module unit and the vibration magnitude adjusting unit. The circuit-controller is connected with a user-exerciser interface. A cable is connected between the user and the vibration magnitude adjusting unit via the user-exerciser interface such that the vibration can be transferred to a pulling member of the cable.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventor: Chi-Shiang Shih
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Publication number: 20080287270Abstract: An apparatus, a device, and corresponding methods for exercise which involve a frame having a substantially right-angle configuration for facilitating its accommodation into a corner of a room and for optimizing its footprint in the room, a pulley system having an adjustable resistance device using a pulley ratio technique, a fixed high pull mechanism, a fixed low pull mechanism, a cross-over exercise mechanism, and a lifting bar, the lifting bar having linear bearings and handles, and the handles subtending an angle in a range of approximately 0 degrees to approximately 45 degrees.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2007Publication date: November 20, 2008Inventor: Kenneth Carter
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Publication number: 20080242509Abstract: Systems and methods to control a workout on a strength machine are described. An example system includes a sensor interface to receive a physiological condition of a user during use of the strength machine, and a controller coupled to the strength machine to cause a change of an exercise parameter based on the physiological condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Alexandre K. Menektchiev, Gary E. Oglesby
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Publication number: 20080234115Abstract: An exercise machine for exercising the muscles of the upper body, in which a pushing or pulling movement can be performed in a direction approximately between horizontal and vertical towards or away from the shoulder joint of the user, with the user seated in the same position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2008Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventor: JOHN JAMES HARRISON
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Patent number: 7413532Abstract: Exercise apparatus has a weight stack for opposing a given exercise motion. The weight stack has a first set of a plurality of primary weights vertically stacked on each other, a primary weight selector having a plurality of settings selectively controlling the number of weights to be lifted during the exercise motion, a second set of a plurality of secondary weights, and a secondary weight selector having a plurality of settings selectively controlling the number of secondary weights to be lifted during the exercise motion, the secondary weights providing supplemental incremental weight.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventors: Lon L. Monsrud, Charles J. Rosenow
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Patent number: 7410451Abstract: An exercise machine attachment is provided wherein the attachment may comprise a hook aperture attached to a joint wherein the joint defines bead chain apertures formed within the joint and extending directionally in an oblique or perpendicular manner. The attachment may further comprise first and second bead chains attached to the bead chain apertures. Also, each bead chain may comprise a plurality of beads which are sized and configured to be ergonomically fitted into a weight lifter's hand.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Inventor: Michael Edward Williams
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Publication number: 20080188361Abstract: A multi-function weight training apparatus including a support base, a linear motion beam, a resistance adjusting carriage, a main carriage, a weight carriage and a cable. The linear motion beam is rotatably mounted to the base. The resistance adjusting carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam, wherein the resistance adjusting carriage is selectively positionable on the linear motion beam. The main carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam. The weight carriage is mounted with respect to the support base. The cable operably connects the weight carriage to the main carriage while an intermediate portion of the cable engages the resistance adjusting carriage. Moving the main carriage with respect to the linear motion beam causes the weight carriage to move with respect to the support base.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2008Publication date: August 7, 2008Applicant: Extreme Degree Fitness, Inc.Inventor: Brian Olsen
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Publication number: 20080182732Abstract: An exercise machine has a main frame and a user support frame pivotally mounted relative to the main frame for rotation between start and end positions. The user support frame supports spaced positions on a user's body throughout an exercise movement. A user engagement device is movably mounted relative to the frames and has at least one handle gripped by the user in performing exercises, and a connecting linkage translates movement of the user engagement device to rotational movement of the user support frame. A load resists movement of at least one of the user support, user engagement device, and connecting linkage. The user engagement device is at least partially non-rigid to allow a user to define the path of the handle and thus the type of back exercise performed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2008Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: Hoist Fitness Systems, Inc.Inventors: Randall T. Webber, Christopher E. Brennan, Bruce Hockridge, Jeffrey O. Meredith
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Publication number: 20080096735Abstract: An apparatus and a method for an exercise machine (1) having a support frame (100); a resisting structure (200) for providing a resistance; a seat (300) for accommodating an exerciser; a structure for adjusting the seat (400), the seat (300) being operatively coupled to the seat adjusting a (400) structure, and the seat adjusting structure (400) being mechanically coupled to the support frame (100); left and right arms (500) being operatively coupled to the resisting structure (200); and a structure for simultaneously adjusting each arm (600), each arm (500) being operatively coupled to the arm adjusting structure (600), and the arm adjusting structure (600) being mechanically coupled to the support frame (100), the exercise machine (1) being engaged by the exerciser for performing a plurality of movements at a plurality of angles under the resistance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2006Publication date: April 24, 2008Inventor: Sherman Grider
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Patent number: 7341546Abstract: A multi-axes exercise machine for strengthening muscles surrounding shoulder joint of a user allows the user a range of motions about lines of motion perpendicular to an arc of circumduction of the shoulder joints. A pair of handholds is suspended from an arcuate guide plate, which extends above a user station. By moving the point of securing the handholds along the length of the arcuate guide plate, the user can re-position the upper ends of the handholds from a location above the user station to a position behind the user station. At all times, the axes of rotation of the handholds are parallel to each other and extend along a plane that contains the axis of circumduction of the user's shoulders. A centerline of each handhold passes through the center of the corresponding glenohumeral joint of the user during the exercise.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Kenneth Bryan Gautier
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Publication number: 20080051267Abstract: Exercise apparatus and methods having adjustable frame members are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, a support assembly, and a force transferring assembly. The support assembly includes a pair of outwardly extending frame members coupled to an upwardly projecting portion by a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly enables controllable adjustment of a height of the frame members. The force-transferring assembly includes first and second portions coupled to and extending at least partially along each of the outwardly extending frame members. During an exercise, a training force applied to the first and second portions induces an associated force on the load. The coupling assembly may permit an angle between the outwardly extending frame members to vary freely during an exercise, or may allow a user to controllably adjust and fix the angle during the exercise.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2006Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: VECTRA FITNESS, INC.Inventor: A. Buell Ish
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Publication number: 20080051268Abstract: Exercise assemblies having self-adjusting pad devices are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load and a force-transferring assembly operatively coupled between the load and at least one exercise station such that a training force applied to the at least one exercise station induces an associated force on the load. The at least one exercise station includes at least one pad member slideably coupled to a support member and configured to adjust to a lateral position along the support member corresponding to a portion of the user's body. The at least one pad member may have an attachment opening that includes a first portion sized to receive a shaft portion of the support member, and a second portion sized to receive a retaining portion of the support member, the retaining portion being larger than the shaft portion of the support member.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2006Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: VECTRA FITNESS, INC.Inventor: A. Buell Ish
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Publication number: 20080051265Abstract: A convertible leg exercise apparatus for performing different leg exercises has a first leg exercise arm pivotally mounted on a frame for rotation about a first pivot axis and a second leg exercise arm pivotally attached to the first arm for rotation about a second pivot axis spaced below the first pivot axis. The second arm pivots about the second pivot axis away from the first arm to perform one leg exercise, while the first and second arms pivot together about the first pivot axis to perform another leg exercise. The second arm may be configured to perform a leg press exercise while the first and second arms rotate together to perform leg extension and leg curl exercises.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2006Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: Super Talent Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Randall T. Webber
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Publication number: 20080051269Abstract: Exercise assemblies having apparatus that retain the feet of a user during an exercise are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise assembly includes a load, and a support assembly operatively positioned relative to the load and including a base assembly. A force-transferring assembly is operatively coupled between the load and an exercise station such that a training force applied to the exercise station induces an associated force on the load. A foot-retaining assembly is operatively coupled to the support assembly and includes at least one foot-retaining device defining a foot-retaining space configured to receive at least a portion of a foot of the user. The foot-retaining device prevents a vertical movement of the foot of the user during the exercise.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2006Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: VECTRA FITNESS, INC.Inventor: L. Kent Lines
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Publication number: 20080051266Abstract: Exercise bench assemblies having wheels with integral brakes that automatically engage and disengage during use of the bench assembly are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise bench assembly includes a support portion, and a frame assembly coupled to the support portion. A wheel assembly is coupled to the frame assembly and includes at least one wheel configured to rollably engage a support surface, and a braking device operatively associated with the at least one wheel. The braking device is configured to engage the at least one wheel to prevent the at least one wheel from rolling on the support surface when a user's weight is applied to the support portion, and to disengage from the at least one wheel to allow the at least one wheel to roll on the support surface when the weight of the user is removed from the support portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2006Publication date: February 28, 2008Applicant: VECTRA FITNESS, INC.Inventors: A. Buell Ish, L. Kent Lines
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Patent number: 7335141Abstract: Exercise apparatus is disclosed which enables a user to pull a cable against a source of resistance from a pulley arranged at one of a number of points around a substantially circular arc.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: BVP Holding, Inc.Inventor: Robert A. Piane, Jr.
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Patent number: 7331908Abstract: A multi-function weight training apparatus including a support base, a linear motion beam, a resistance adjusting carriage, a main carriage, a weight carriage and a cable. The linear motion beam is rotatably mounted to the base. The resistance adjusting carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam, wherein the resistance adjusting carriage is selectively positionable on the linear motion beam. The main carriage is mounted to the linear motion beam. The weight carriage is mounted with respect to the support base. The cable operably connects the weight carriage to the main carriage while an intermediate portion of the cable engages the resistance adjusting carriage. Moving the main carriage with respect to the linear motion beam causes the weight carriage to move with respect to the support base.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Extreme Degree Fitness, Inc.Inventor: Brian Olsen
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Patent number: 7316638Abstract: A combination stack weight selector and add-on assembly for selecting the stack of weights to be lifted and also supporting any add-on weights for the user of a weight-lifting machine. The combination stack weight selector and add-on assembly includes a selector/support member having a handle member and an elongate shaft member being securely attached to the handle member for selection of weights to be lifted on an exercise machine; and also includes a weight member being supported upon the selector/support member.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Inventor: Juaquin T. Fabela
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Patent number: 7303514Abstract: Moveable exercise benches are disclosed. In one embodiment, an exercise machine includes a load, an exercise station, and a force-transferring assembly operatively coupling the exercise station and the load. A moveable support is positioned proximate the exercise station and is adapted to support a user during an exercise. The force-transferring assembly is adapted to allow the moveable support to move without decoupling the force-transferring assembly from the exercise station and to allow use of the exercise station at any location of the moveable support without adjustment. The force-transferring assembly may be a cable-and-pulley assembly. In an alternate embodiment, the force-transferring assembly may be adapted to apply a counter force on the moveable support that at least partially counters a reactive force applied by the user to the moveable support during the exertion of the exercising force.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Vectra Fitness, Inc.Inventors: A. Buell Ish, III, W. Douglas MacLean
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Patent number: 7278958Abstract: A variable resistance physical exercise apparatus is provided which provides improved features over prior art devices in that it is more compact, provides a linear resistance profile to the user and provides a variety of modes of operation. The device comprises a motor driven bi-directional linear translation mechanism to vary the effective length of a lever arm and therefore vary the weight of resistance to the user. An alternative embodiment includes a spring winder drum pulley combination.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2004Date of Patent: October 9, 2007Inventor: Curtis Wayne Morgan
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Publication number: 20070184944Abstract: An exercising machine includes a base frame having two positioning plates each of which has equiangularly spaced locating holes, and two crank arms respectively pivoted to the positioning plates. Two dampers are respectively coupled to the crank arms to impart a damping resistance during operation of the crank arms. Two positioning members are respectively movably mounted on the crank arms for selectively engaging into the locating holes of the positioning plates to secure the crank arms at a desired angle. Two spring members are sleeved onto the positioning members for forcing the positioning members into engagement with the locating holes of the positioning plates. Two levers are respectively pivoted to the crank arms for operation by the user to pull the positioning members away from the locating holes of the positioning members through a respective traction member.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2006Publication date: August 9, 2007Inventor: Chin-Lien Huang
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Publication number: 20070161469Abstract: A doorway mounted body exercise apparatus has upper and lower horizontal bars bridging the doorway and carrying respective pulleys and, a rearwardly protruding weight set supporting arm which can be swung between either lateral side to the rear of the doorway to accommodate left and right hand hinged doors and can be retracted into the doorway to permit the door to be completely closed while still mounted. Different cabling arrangements enable the weight set to be used as a counter weight for body weight assistance or additional resistance. An upper frame carrying the upper bar is collapsible for removal and storage or to enable a person to walk through the doorway. The lower bar is hinged at one end to the jamb for swinging up against the jamb so as not to obstruct the doorway when not in use. Footpads on the upper frame enable exercising while hanging upside down.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2007Publication date: July 12, 2007Inventors: STEWART LAMLE, Tamas Varro, Barbara Mrena
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Patent number: 7226399Abstract: A lockout mechanism allows for controlled use of exercise equipment. Use is allowed on a time-controlled basis. A predetermined period of time is allocated based on an amount of money paid. The preferred embodiments include a coin-operated, time-controlled, lockout mechanism incorporated onto various types of exercise equipment to prohibit use. The first category including those types of exercise equipment which utilize flywheels, including but not limited to: elliptical trainers, stationary bicycles, stair steppers and cross-country ski machines. This first embodiment employs a friction device to prohibit use. The second category including those types of exercise equipment which utilize adjustable resistance in the form of a weight stack, including but not limited to: universal gyms and nautilus equipment. This second embodiment employs a spring loaded latch mechanism to prohibit use. A third category includes those types of exercise equipment which require electricity to operate.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2003Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Inventor: Jean-Paul Lanoue
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Patent number: 7214170Abstract: An exercise apparatus in which movement of a weight by the user generates a vibration which acts on the muscles being exercised.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2003Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: South Bank University Enterprises Ltd.Inventors: David Paul Sumners, Roger Leslie Brown
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Patent number: 7211030Abstract: A exercise machine has a pulley for user's flexibility to choose between training at the selected weight plates' full weight, or at the half weight when the pulley is engaged. A latching switch is used for easy selection of going between the full weight and half weight mode. A counter weight block is attached to an end of the cable, to keep the tension of the cable when the exercise machine is used in the full weight mode.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Guofang Cao
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Patent number: 7201710Abstract: A cable positioning assembly for a weight lifting exerciser includes an oval anti-impact member mounted to a cable which has one end thereof connected to the weights and the other end of the cable reeves through pulleys connected to the main frame of the weight lifting exerciser. The second end of the cable is connected to an end rod which is connected to a pulling handlebar. A passage is defined longitudinally through the anti-impact member and a flexible tube is securely engaged with the passage. The flexible tube includes two enlarged end flanges extending radially from two ends of the flexible tube and the two enlarged end flanges are engaged with two openings defined by the passage in the anti-impact member.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Inventor: Yung-Pin Kuo
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Patent number: 7192391Abstract: A variable spring resistance to movement of a rod uses a plurality of springs permanently connected between a base and a stack of end connector links extending in the direction of the rod movement. Selecting which of the links is connected to the rod then determines which of the springs are deployed to resist movement of the rod, without requiring any disconnection or reconnection of the springs. The selection can be made by a pin inserted through an aligned hole between a link and the rod. The arrangement can also be inverted with the springs connected between the links and a moving element, and the rod or other link selector being fixed to a base. Connecting one of the links to the rod then determines which of the springs will be extended between fixed and movable elements to establish a selectively variable spring resistance.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Kellion CorporationInventor: Yong Woo Kim
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Patent number: 7179208Abstract: A weight plate for use with physical fitness equipment is disclosed including a plate body with a central and two outwardly throughbores. The body additionally has an internal bore within the thickness of the plate body which intersects the central throughbore. A selector pin is movably mounted within the internal bore to selectively engage the plate body to a center post. A toggle lever is mounted in the plate to selectively position the selector pin.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Inventor: Mark Nalley
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Patent number: 7169092Abstract: In a gymnastic apparatus, the actuator (22) is fitted in fixed angular position to a first shaft (16) to oscillate from initial to final position, normally maintained in initial position by a weight unit (8) and connected to the weight unit (8) by a driving device (33) provided with a cam (38) splined on a second shaft (34) transversal to the first shaft (16), two gears (37) are joined in angular position to the first and second shaft (16, 34), respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: Panatta Sport S.R.L.Inventor: Rodolfo Panatta
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Patent number: 7163494Abstract: A gymnastic apparatus is provided with a base (2), which is used to place the gymnastic apparatus on the ground, at least a user-operated actuator (22) that can be moved from initial to final position; a weight unit (8) used to normally maintain the actuator (22) in initial position; and driving means (33) used to connect the actuator (22) and weight unit (8) and provided with at least a cam (38) housed inside a box-shaped section of the base (2).Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Panatta Sport S.R.L.Inventor: Rodolfo Panatta
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Patent number: 7074169Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Inventor: Vasil T. Hristov
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Patent number: 7070545Abstract: An exercise machine composed of a frame, a first four bar linkage system, a second four bar linkage system, and a means for transferring an incident force from the legs of a user is disclosed. The first four bar linkage system is operably mounted on the frame and operably connects the transferring means to the frame to allow for back and forth movement of the transferring means along a path of travel about an instantaneously changing axis of rotation. The second four bar linkage system operably engages the first four bar linkage system. Either or both of the first four bar linkage system and the second four bar linkage system are operably connected to a resistance means, whereby the second four bar linkage system operates in conjunction with the first four bar linkage system and the resistance means to create a mechanical disadvantage to the user.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2002Date of Patent: July 4, 2006Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.Inventors: Andrew P. Lull, Gregory M. Webb
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Patent number: 7063649Abstract: The invention composes a multifunctional device for exercising the organs of motion. It solves the problem of maximum increasing the number of exercises with a full protection being ensured for a user against injury. It is mainly characterized by the fact that faces (20) of front posts (23) and rear posts (16, 17) are equipped with a row of hooks (21), adapted for detachable fastening on them two protective bar-bell catchers (22), and travelling transporter (9) has the form of rectangular, opened from below, frame (24), side arms (25) of said frame being equipped with a row of through-seats (27) adapted for detachable mounting in them, in front and in the rear, training grips for lifting (28), or horizontal beam (29).Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2001Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Inventors: Alina Szultka, Stanislaw Szultka
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Patent number: 7044897Abstract: An exercise apparatus has an exercise station that is selectively moved by a user and has first and second weight stacks that provide selected resistance to movement of the exercise station. The exercise apparatus includes: (A) a frame; (B) an exercise station; (C) a first weight stack; (D) a second weight stack; and (E) a coupling system configured to selectively couple: (i) the first weight stack; and (ii) the second weight stack to the exercise station such that movement of the exercise station requires movement of at least one plate from each of: (i) the first weight stack; and (ii) the second weight stack. A coupling member couples the first weight stack to the second weight stack.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: ICON IP, Inc.Inventors: Clinton S. Myers, Mike Olson
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Patent number: 7014599Abstract: An exercise machine that outputs constant force from resilient resistances and allows continuously selectable levels of strength training resistance. The machine consists primarily of a pre-biased resistance element (50), a conical pulley structure with eccentric cross section (40), an axially adjustable force attachment point (34) and a frame (10). Flexible force transmission elements (30) conduct force to the user interface elements (16, 17) via pulleys (36).Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2003Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Inventor: Peter Ashley
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Patent number: 7011609Abstract: A counterweight exercise machine has a frame. The frame comprises two main guide rods; two sub-guide rods; a passive rod parallel to the two main guide rods; at least one main weight; a selector; a base having a lower substrate and an upper substrate; and two sleeves connected to the lower substrate and the upper substrate; at least one pin capable of passing through the round holes of the front sheet and the rear sheet and the passive rod; and at least one sub-weight. By above mentioned components, the selector serves to lock a predetermined number of main weights and the pin inserts into the sub-weight so as to increase the total weight. A force applied unit serves to drive the passive rod to drive the main weight and the sub-weight to operate along the main guide rods and sub-guide rods to achieve the object of training the muscle.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2005Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Inventor: Hai Pin Kuo
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Patent number: 6916275Abstract: A muscle strengthening bar for the shoulders, arms, hands and wrist that includes a roll-up bar, a weight support by a plate on the end of a strap and a pair of handles on the roll-up bar. The user, by extending out the arms, can raise and lower the weight on the strap by rolling the handles attached to the roll-up bar. The rolling action of hands on the handles causes tension on the strap which is attached to the plate which supports the weight.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2002Date of Patent: July 12, 2005Inventor: Rocky K. Beedy