BR112019014129A2 - WEIGHT SELECTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXERCISE - Google Patents

Abstract

a resistance component configured to print a resistive force to a connected exercise component is provided. the device includes a frame rotatingly supporting a selection arm that has a weight operatively connected to the selection arm by a pin arm. the weight provides a resistance to the rotation of the selection arm by means of a flexible element fitted with the exercise component. adjusting the engagement of one end of the pin arm in an arched engagement path along the selection arm adjusts the mechanical advantage and resistive force.

Description

WEIGHT SELECTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR EXERCISE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of United States Patent Application No. 15 / 404,109 filed on January 11, 2017, which is partly a continuation of United States Patent Application No. 14 / 633,052, filed on February 26, 2015, which claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 945,008, filed on February 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to all the purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present device refers to exercise equipment used to strengthen muscles. More particularly, the device and method presented, refer to a weight lifting device configured for easy adjustment of resistance through the provision of an arcuate element that has an easy connection adjustable by the user to an underlying weight. A plurality of openings are positioned through the arcuate part for insertion of a pin that simultaneously adjusts a position on the curved element that communicates variable lifting force from the mechanical advantage to the underlying weight. Operatively employing the device here, when coupled with any external exercise interface such as a cable, a user can easily initially select and reselect a preferred weight resistance for a given exercise, and repetitively employ the weight

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2/3 6 to offer resistance for your exercise with little noise or machine wear.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Equipment for physical fitness and bodybuilding employs a variety of forms. All of which are adapted to provide resistance to the application of the user's muscles, exercise, and to develop muscle tissue during an exercise regime. In recent years, weight machines have become popular as they can be configured to provide a plurality of positions and exercises in different stations or machine configurations. In each exercise, a cable that runs on a serpentine route communicates the resistance of the weights to the component being pushed, pulled or lifted by the user. A plethora of weight selection module systems have been developed with such machines. All in an attempt to allow a user to variably select an aggregate weight using a group of weights that are operatively attached to the distal end of the cable and are used to provide strength for each job. Users conventionally choose a weight combination to produce the aggregate amount of resistance to weight based on their individual resistance, exercise routine, and training tactics.

[0004] Weight lifting machines are often composed of two corresponding and interchangeable components. First, a resistance module provides the exercise load to provide resistance to the user's movement during exercise. A second component interface provides engagement

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3/3 6 operative one or a plurality of weights with the cable and allows the user to apply a determinable force to the station or machine to exercise a group of defined muscles or muscles.

[0005] Using the conventional weight stacking resistance module, as seen in United States Patent No. 71,871,357, a user typically selects their desired lifting load by inserting a pin through a vertical rod, which communicates through of one of the multiple layers of metal plates. A positioning of the pin at a particular point on the rod causes the engaged plate to support the suspended plates when elevated and thus determines the aggregate amount of weight attached to the cable from the plurality of weight plates selected through the placement of the pin.

[0006] Generally, the weight plates individually contain at least one or a plurality of holes positioned to guide the plates during translation on aligned rods that communicate through the holes. A through hole communicates vertically through a central portion of the thickness of the plates between the upper surface and the lower surface. In use, this centrally located hole surrounds an inserted vertical translation rod. This rod, together with any weight plates sustained in operative engagement, is moved along a vertical path when moved by a user involved in exercise. The weight of the engaged weight plates thus provides resistance to the movement of the interface component by the user, such as

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4/3 6 an alter type or similar component.

[0007] Conventionally, a pair of external through holes, which are symmetrical around the hole located centrally on each weight plate, is slidably engaged around vertically tilted support bars that, during use, restrict the rotation of the weight plates. A latch opening conventionally communicates horizontally across the width of each weight plate between the upper and lower surfaces and intersects the through hole in the middle.

[0008] Rod openings communicating on the vertical translation rod, in a spaced sequence to be aligned with a complementary spacing of the coupling openings extend across each weight plate when positioned in a stack. When choosing a resistive load for use with any particular exercise component using the resistance weight stack, a pin is fitted by the user through any single hitch opening to also fit a stem opening to the vertical translation rod. Thus, the user, fitting the lower weight in the stack to the rod, will have a resistance weight of all the weights in the stack when the vertical rod is moved. The resistance weight can be adjusted by engaging the pin through the engagement opening of a larger weight plate in the stack and vice versa. However, this system has numerous disadvantages.

[0009] First, as noted, the system employs a selector pin that must be moved to different opening slots for weight plates positioned differently on the stack. As with any

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5/3 6 loose coupling, the selector pin is easily lost if it is not attached to the machine. If the cable fails, the selector pin, in a gym environment with many different users, tends to get lost or be moved to other weight stacks that also have lost selector pins. Additionally, the pin may become worn and difficult to insert.

[0010] In addition, in a commercial gym environment, the malfunction of the weight system through improper insertion of the selector pin or the poor engagement can bend the selector pin. In any case, a damaged or lost selector pin can cripple the entire machine connected to a specific weight stack.

[0011] Other problems can occur with time, even where the selector pin remains close to a weight stack and properly used. Due to the fact that the translation rod that engages the weight stack is often attached to a cable that tends to stretch over repeated use to lift the load of weights attached to the rod, misalignment often occurs between the coupling openings on the plates weight, and the vertical translation rod. This can make it difficult if not impossible to properly position the selector pin through a chosen weight plate and opening in the translation rod. This can disable the exercise equipment attached to the weight stack, or at least make it easier and longer to use.

[0012] There are other problems with exercise machines connected with a conventional weight stack, while not mechanically impairing the machine's operation, it can be irritating and even harmful to the user.

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6/3 6

During the translation of the weight stack during use from a position supported by stacking and back, the metal weight plates come into contact with each other and cause significant noise and, over time, significant wear. In addition, a significant risk of damage is always present when using weight stack resistance exercise machines. This is because there is a pinch point between the lowest weight in the plurality raised by the translation of the rod and the weight plate on which the translation stack is located. The pinch point can cause serious damage to the user of the exercise equipment, or more often, to a third party who places a finger between the non-moving weight and the weight stack being lowered by translating the rod downward.

[0013] Several advances have been made to reduce the inadequacies of the pin stacking and weight system, such as weight lifting machines. Weight lifting machines allow the user to adjust the mechanical advantage to tune in to a static load, the provision of the resistance chosen by the user without removable pins. This proved to be much easier and safer for users, eliminating the use of an external pin, reducing dangerous pinch points, and a potentially defective pin coupling, which can cause the high weight stacks to loosen .

[0014] Weight lifting machines are based on the principle that increasing or decreasing the applied impulse through which the user lifts a given restricted weight, increases or decreases the work required by the user.

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7/3 6 user's body and thus increases or decreases resistance to movement. Thus, the force required to perform the exercise by the user can be increased or decreased.

[0015] In an example of a weight lifting machine, United States Patent No. 5,263,914 allows the user to adjust the mechanical advantage by using a system of pulleys and cables that lift a single or static amount of weight. The US Patent ^Nos 7,537,652 and 8,323,158 employ a similar technique for replacing the font weight based load with straps and with spring bias resistive tires, respectively.

[0016] Although these current weight machines of type leverage reduce the necessity of a pile in weights variable and pin hitch, such systems in leverage employ a arrangement of pulley complicated and cabling system in serpentine, along with ' an

multiplicity of moving parts inherent in such complicated projects. The use of numerous cables, rotating pulleys and other moving parts often make such machines noisy, expensive and difficult to maintain. In addition, the presence of numerous cables running over numerous pulleys increases the potential for damage by forming potentially numerous pinch points on the cables and pulleys. Unlike weight stack pinches, users unfamiliar with cable and pulley operation are often unaware of the potential for injury.

[0017] As such, there is an unmet need for a resistive weight device that alleviates the deficiencies of the weight resistive devices of the technique

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Previous 8/3 6. Such a device must be simple to manufacture, build and maintain in order to reduce costs and encourage widespread sales to encourage users to exercise. Such a system must be built with an arrangement of components that make it quiet, which would be especially useful in a gym environment with multiple simultaneous users of multiple exercise machines. Ideally, the potential for damage should be reduced by eliminating or reducing the number of potential pinch points on the device and system. In addition, unlike pin stacking and chain weight systems, which locate the weight stack at a distance from the embedded exercise device and generally close to the floor, such a device should include a means for the user to choose resistance that it is easily seen and allows the user to easily and quickly calculate and adjust the desired resistance load for their particular exercise routine. In addition, unlike conventional cable and pulley systems and weight stacks that require a considerable amount of floor space due to their configuration, such a device should ideally allow use in a small floor space.

[0018] The foregoing examples of related technique and related limitation are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive, and do not imply any limitations of the invention described and claimed here. Several limitations of the related technique will become evident to those skilled in the art by reading and understanding the specification below the attached drawings.

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9/3 6

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0019] The device and system presented and described herein provide a solution to the deficiencies of the prior art and achieve the aforementioned objectives by providing an exercise-resistant device and a system that can be engaged with exercise machines to produce gentle resistance to exercise movements through the use of a weight load that eliminates chatter or noise when jumping and contacting the ground. In addition, as described, the device is configured with significantly reduced crush points reducing the risk of damage, thus providing the user with a quiet and easily adjustable training device.

[0020] According to a preferred mode of the device, the device employs a housing structure minimizing pinch points configured to support the load and balance a weight or weights attached to it. The housing is of sufficient height to ensure that the attached weight can be moved a sufficient distance during the exercise course of a coupled exercise equipment being employed by a user. The housing is shown in a rectangular or square shape, although this may vary. The housing may include fixing plates, which allow engagement with a support surface for added stability. Attaching the resistance device here to any exercise equipment employable by a user that requires a resistive force occurs via a cable, thus allowing the device to be easily retracted in

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10/3 6 existing rotating equipment and easily coupled with new equipment.

[0021] A weight operationally associated with the device frame is fitted around a pivot point or bearing that allows the weight to rotate around the pivot point supported by the housing frame. The axis of the elongated weight body running through the first and second lateral surface is generally operatively engaged with the frame to rotate in a plane running perpendicular to the plane of the floor or supporting surface, along the longitudinal axis of the frame.

[0022] At the point of articulation for the weight, a bearing or opening is fitted with a bearing on a pin arm. The weight itself may be composed of any heavy, safe, durable material or combination of materials suitable for the purposes set out in this report. Solid metal can be used, or a weight formed of a metal, fiberglass, plastic, or polymeric outer shell that defines an inner cavity that can be filled with a material that has the mass to produce the total weight for it. This could be anything from ball bearings, dirt, to fluid, such as water, or another charge to the internal cavity as would occur to those skilled in the art.

[0023] With the device attached by the flexible element or cable to an exercise component, the user can easily select a desired resistance communicated to the specific exercise component of the cable

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11/3 6 that communicates between the exercise component and the weight of the device here. The selection of a resistance level is accomplished by manipulating the connection between a pin arm fitted on a first end to an arcuate element and on a hitch or operative communication on a second end for the weight. The pin arm contains aforementioned bearing fitted with its own weight at the second end, or a secondary element fitted with the weight. A pin that can be fitted by a user, such as a selection pin, is positioned at the first end.

[0024] To select a desired resistance level communicated by the cable to the exercise component, a pin positioning to engage with one of a plurality of openings in a set of the same formed in an arcuate element is employed. The sequentially located openings communicate in the arcuate element defining a selection arm, when attached by the pin to the pin arm, it will produce a communication of a more or less sequential resistance by the cable to the engaged exercise station depending on the individual opening to which the user engages. the pin.

[0025] The arcuate element that forms the resistance selection arm is fitted at a pivot point, preferably with a bearing at a coupling end, to rotate around an upper support shaft that is operatively engaged with the structure accommodation. A flexible element such as the observed cable, or a strap or rope, or another flexible element extends along an operating path

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12/36 vertically from a hitch to the second end or distal end of the pin arm or resistance selection arm, from a hinged hinge at a first end to the frame. This flexible element or cable runs along a formed path operatively engaged with a plurality of pulleys positioned on the housing frame. The load from the weight being articulated on a weight support arm, and thus raised above the support surface, being thus communicated to the exercise equipment, fixed in operative communication with the other end of the cable.

[0026] By repositioning the pin hole or opening or other coupling of the pivot pin arm, which is centered with the arcuate path of openings in the selection arm, with different points in the arcuate path over the selection arm, the user can adjust the mechanical advantage of the device. Thus, the output resistance communicated via the cable to the exercise device can be adjusted by adjusting the pin engagement along the arcuate or curved element. The use of the open path of the openings, either in a linear selection arm or in a curved or arched selection arm, allows for both smoother operation and an increased number of adjustment points along the path of the arcuate element. The arched selection arm is also preferable to increase the ability to form an inclined hitch with the weight.

[0027] At rest and in the neutral position, the resistance selection arm preferably rests against a padded protrusion on the inner face of the frame

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13/3 6 of the accommodation. The padding must be composed of a durable material, preferably silicone or hard rubber, but can be formed from one or more of the following materials: leather, wood, hard plastic. In a preferred alternative mode, a flap component, which is made of a more durable and inelastic material, can connect with the housing frame via a spring designed to soften the load from a suddenly loose weight. This weight support minimizes landing noise.

[0028] As the resistance weights are often cast in molds and, thus, inherently less precise in their outer geometry, an alternative way can simplify the geometry by replacing the bearing embedded in a single point in the weight with two interlocking axles that are located parallel to the bearing. Upper link arm and lower link arm, which both include a pivot point at each end engaged with the weight, are employed to restrict the movement and movement path of the weight relative to the frame of the device. The lower pivot arm rotates about the weight axis and the support frame of the bottom frame. The upper connecting arm rotates about a third parallel axis embedded within the weight and the upper frame support axis, while the pin selection arm is still restricted to the weight as described above.

[0029] As variations of the second preferred mode, the lower and upper articulation arms can be located on the same axis or opposite sides of the weight for a lower grip or greater stability,

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14/36 respectively.

[0030] To reduce the transport weight and allow a greater resistance range available to the user, the device can be equipped with weights permanently engaged in another preferred mode. In this configuration, the weight position is replaced by a vertical pivoting arm, which is coupled to the upper and lower connecting arms through two bearing axes. Upper pivot arm on the vertical pivot arm that engages with the upper link arm, the vertical pivot arm contains a weight shaft that can be engaged, adapted to fit with a conventional bar counterweight plate in an operative hitch . The weight axis must not be shorter or longer than necessary to maintain the number of change plates whose total mass is equal to the maximum load capacity of the device.

[0031] The housing structure, articulation, pin and resistance selection arms can be composed of one or a combination of the following materials: steel, stainless steel, aluminum, hard plastic or any other material suitable for the purposes presented in this description .

[0032] In another preferred option, where very precise resistance adjustments are required, which require very precise weight adjustments and mechanical advantages, a sliding secondary weight can be fitted to the device. The secondary weight is easily translated into short distances to provide minute adjustments to the resistance provided by the device. Furthermore, in

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15/3 6 place of the spring loaded pin, a quieter coupling component can be provided in the form of a translation pin that is operated by lever. In this mode, the rotation of a lever engages and disengages a coaxial pin in the openings provided.

[0033] With respect to the above description, before explaining at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention described in detail, it should be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the disposition of components in the description below or illustrated in the drawings. The invention described here is capable of other modalities and of being practiced and carried out in various ways that will be obvious to those skilled in the art. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used here are for the purpose of description and should not be considered as limiting.

[0034] As such, those skilled in the art will consider that the design on which this disclosure is based can be used immediately as a basis for the design of other structures, methods and systems for the realization of the various purposes of the present disclosed device. Therefore, it is important that the claims are considered to include such an equivalent construction and function. Methodology as long as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0035] As used in the claims to describe the various aspects and modalities of the invention, comprising means including, but not limited to what comes after the word comprising. Thus, the use of

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16/3 6 term comprising indicates that the elements listed are required or mandatory, but that other elements are optional and may or may not be present. By consisting of means including, and limited to, what follows the phrase consisting of. Thus, the phrase Consisting of indicates that the elements listed are required or mandatory, and that no other elements may be present. By essentially consisting of means any element listed after the sentence, and limited to other elements that do not interfere with or contribute to the activity or action specified in the description of the listed elements. Thus, the sentence consisting essentially of indicates that the elements listed are required or mandatory, but that other elements are optional and may or may not be present, depending on whether or not they affect the activity or action of the listed elements.

[0036] An object of the present invention is to provide an exercise device that produces uniform and adjustable resistance for weight lifting exercises.

[0037] An additional objective of the present invention is to create a quiet, inexpensive, and easily sustainable weight-based resistance source that is safe and intuitive to employ.

[0038] It is yet another objective of the present invention, to provide an arched pathway of openings that can be engaged with a pivoting arm fitted in weight to provide a selective increase selectively to the number of possible weight selections.

[0039] It is another objective of this

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17/36 invention to provide a weight lifting apparatus that employs only rotating joints to transfer the mass supply resistance and that allows the user tilt to modify the moment arm applied through which the user applies load to a single weight , whose movement is restricted by a joint of four bars.

[0040] An additional objective of the present invention is to provide a weight-based resistance exercise component that minimizes the risk of pinch point damage and minimizes noise.

[0041] Another objective of the invention, through the use of an arched lifting component fitted to a weight or pivoting mass, to increase the set points for resistance while providing uniform resistance from the aligned force vectors in weight.

[0042] These and other objectives, characteristics and advantages of the present invention, as well as their advantages over the existing prior art, which will become apparent from the description below, are accomplished by the improvements described in this specification and described in the description below detailed below that fully describes the invention, but should not be considered as placing limitations on it.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGURES [0043] The attached drawings, which are incorporated here and form part of the specification, illustrate some, but not only the unique or exclusive examples of configurations and / or features of the

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18/3 6 device revealed. It is intended that the modalities and figures presented here should be considered illustrative of the present invention, rather than limiting in any way. In the drawings:

[0044] Figure 1 illustrates a preferred mode of the device shown here employing an arcuate path for the connection of a pin arm for variable resistance selection that is adjusted to produce the least resistance to the movement of the cable.

[0045] Figure 2 shows the device of figure 1, in which a pin is adjusted to produce the greatest resistance to translation of the movement of the cable due to the reduced mechanical advantage.

[0046] Figure 3 shows the device in another preferred mode with the weight attached to a pair of connecting arms on the first side of the weight.

[0047] Figure 4 shows the view of a second side of the device of figure 3 with the connecting arms on the opposite side of the weight.

[0048] Figure 5 illustrates another preferred mode where the device includes an arched track of resistance selection openings and is configured to engage a weight.

[0049] Figure 6 shows an end view of the device in Figure 5 representing a weight fitted by the user in a dotted line.

[0050] Figure 7 is a rear isometric view of the device in Figure 5, showing the coupling column for a bell-style weight to be fitted in place.

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19/3 6 [0051] Figure 8 illustrates a mode of the device that provides a secondary translation weight that is applicable for small adjustments to the resistance.

[0052] Figure 11 shows the device that has a translation pin that is activated by a lever for engagement or disengagement.

[0053] Figure 12 shows a mode of the device in which the weight stack accompanies one or a plurality of vertically arranged rails.

[0054] Figure 13 illustrates the rear view of the device of figure 13.

[0055] Figure 14 shows an automatic adjustment mode of the device that employs a motor and gear supply device to adjust the resistance printed by the weight stack.

[0056] Figure 15 shows a rear view of the device in Figure 15.

[0057] Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of the device as shown in figures 14-15.

[0058] Figure 17 shows a front view in perspective of an especially preferred way of the device having an arched selection arm with a double row forming paired openings positioned above a track formed in the selection arm.

[0059] Figure 18 is a rear plan view of the device as in figure 16, showing the plurality of paired openings positioned to engage with pins located at the distal end of a

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0/3 6 pin arm.

[0060] Figure 19 is a rear perspective view of the device of figures 16-17.

[0061] Figure 20 is another perspective view of the device of Figure 16, showing the weights removed and the mounting bars adapted to engage free weights of choice to provide resistance to movement.

[0062] Figure 21 is a top plan view of the front of the device of the present invention of Figures 17-20 showing the two parallel curved rows of openings with sequentially shorter spacing as they approach the first end of the selection arm, and with the openings in one row, positioned between pairs of openings in the other row.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0063] The device and system presented herein and described in figures 1-21 provide a solution to the deficiencies in the prior art of resistance and endurance exercise components and endurance exercise achieves the above mentioned objectives through the provision of a device and system that provides resistance to soft weight during use, which eliminates breakage or jumping during use, and further reduces the risk, in the current technique, of pinching and crushing risks, thus providing the user a quiet and easily adjustable work device.

[0064] According to a preferred mode of device 10, by figure, a flexible element such as a cable 44 is operably fitted with any

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21/3 6 exercise component 12, such as handles or pedals or other components that can be engaged by the user, to pull or push, to operatively engage device 10 to provide resistance communicated through cable 44 to exercise equipment. The device 10 employs a support structure 16 shown as a housing 14 to operatively engage the components here and in doing so, protects against pinching points during operation.

[0065] The housing 14 is generally formed between 3 and 5 feet high above the support surface, to ensure a sufficient path for the travel and translation distance suitable for the cable 44, however, it can change depending on the weight 20 employee and the exercise equipment to which it fits.

[0066] Housing 14 can be constructed from a weld, machined or secured by metal elements or tubes to form the rectangular frame 16. Currently frame 16 is approximately 7.62 m wide and approximately 15.24 meters high, respectively. It can be formed into a very narrow global footprint that is only limited by the width of the tubing and as can be seen in figures 6, 7 and 10, which is a distinct advantage over conventional high-weight stack devices, since that the device of the present invention is easily positioned adjacent to a wall or in less floor space.

[0067] Fixing plates 18 can be provided, which allow the owner to screw the module to the floor or support surface for

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22/36 added stability. However, all of these dimensions are infinitely variable depending on the weight size and placement environment.

[0068] A weight 20, pivotally attached with the device 10 is attached by an element to an upper pivot point or bearing of weight 22, which allows the weight 20 to rotate around a connection axis 24 fitted to the housing frame 16 The weight 20 in the manner of figures 12 has a pin arm axis 28 on which a first end of the pin arm 32 will rotate, such as a pin arm bearing 30 positioned at a first end of the pin arm 32. Provides a rotational engagement of a first end of the pin arm 32 to weight 20. Weight 20 can be composed of any heavy material, durable safety material or combination of materials that have mass and dimensions suitable for the purposes set out in this report.

[0069] Operation as shown in figures 1 and 2, a user selects the desired resistance communicated to cable 44 by weight 20, between a minimum and a maximum force, by manipulating the connection of the second end of the pin arm 32 to an arcuate track of engagement of the second end of the pin arm 32 to points along the selection arm 34, such as openings 35 spaced along the pin arm 32. While the pin arm 32 can be configured linearly or straight with the track arcuate of openings 35 positioned inside it, such as to make the pin arm 32 more bulky and as such the arcuate path of the openings 35, is preferably formed along a row, in a spaced line

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3/3 6 sequentially along a curved or arched element that defines pin arm 32, as shown here.

[0070] It is this arcuate path for the connection of the pin arm 32 to the selection arm 34, such as openings 35, which is positioned opposite the pivoting engagement point of the pin arm 32 to weight 20, or to an element fitted with the weight 20. This arched path for engagement, like the openings 35 and the path followed during the rotation of the second end of the pin arm 32, along the same arched path defined by the openings 35, allows significantly greater force adjustment positions, as well as much smoother operation and a mechanical advantage of device 10 here and in all modes here. The first end of the pin arm 32 will be in a pivoting engagement with the frame or weight 20 or an element fitted in it, in a centralized position with the arched or curved path of engagement with the selection arm 34, such as openings 35 , to allow the second end of the pin arm 32, to follow the arcuate path and connect at any point, during the use of openings 35.

[0071] The pin arm 32 as shown has a pin arm bearing 30 at a first end in a pivoting engagement with the pin shaft 286. The pin arm 32 is of a length to position an opening through which a selection pin 36 at the second end is engaged, in operative alignment with each of the openings 35 along the arc of openings 35 formed in, or engaged with the selection arm 34.

[0072] Different from the resistance of

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24/36 weight stacking provided by conventional machines, where the resistance is varied by engaging or disengaging individual weights from a stack, the device 10 here employs the curved or arched path of openings 35 that run sequentially along an arm selection curve 34 for this purpose. A pivoting engagement 38 of a first end of the selection arm 34 in a bearing 40, provides a rotational coupling point, of the selection arm at the first end or with the frame 16.

[0073] The mechanical advantage to raise the weight 20 and thus vary the resistance communicated to pull the cable 44, varies along the total length of the selection arm 34 and depending on the engagement point of the second end of the pin arm 32, makes weight 20, easier or harder to lift.

[0074] Thus, a lower resistance to the movement of the weight 20 is communicated to the cable 44 and to the cable the exercise component associated 12 with the pin arm 32 engaged as shown in figure 31 when the second end of the pin arm 32 is engaged in an opening 35, closest to the bearing 40 and additionally from the engagement with the cable 44. Attach the pin arm 32 to an opening 35 along the arc of the openings 35 furthest from the resistance arm support 40, if selected as in figure 2, it communicates the resistance of the weight lifting 20, directly to the connected cable 44 in a substantially straight line, and has little or no mechanical advantage. This creates a greater resistance to translation of the cable 44 that is communicated to a

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5/3 6 exercise associated 12 by the user.

[0075] The selection arm 34, as can be seen in figure 4, is fitted to a first end pivot point, preferably using a bearing 40 that rotates about the geometric axis t an upper support axis 42 fitted with or supported by structure 16. It was found after several configurations with straight and linear members for the selection arm 34, that a curved element to form the selection arm 34 significantly improved the performance of device 10. As noted, the curvature of the element that forms the selection arm is particularly preferred as it provides the most compact way to form the curved path of openings 35 that provide many more user selectable engagement points, as well as providing a longer selection arm for greater mechanical advantage in an area smaller than a linear or straight configuration provides.

[0076] The cable 44, which alternatively can be replaced by a band, strap or cord, or another flexible element, extends vertically from the resistance selection arm 34, through one or a plurality of cable pulleys 46 in the housing frame 14, which transfers resistance from weight 20, along cable 44 and to the attached exercise component 12.

[0077] At rest and in the neutral position, the second or distal end of the pin arm rests against a padded protrusion on the inner face of the housing frame 14, as shown in figure 1. 0

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6/3 6 filling on the protrusion 63 must be composed of a durable material, preferably hard rubber, but it can be formed from one or more of the following materials: leather, wood or hard plastic. The padded projection 63 can also be made of a hard material such as stainless or non-stainless steel or aluminum if the padded projection 48 is attached to the frame 14 with a spring.

[0078] In all modes of the device 10 shown, the connection of the weight 20 to the selection arm 34 extends mainly in a line along the first pivotally engaged end of the pin arm 32 in position t a central point at the weight 20 a the second end of the pin arm 32, as noted, can be selectively engaged with any opening 35 along the arcuate path of openings 35 positioned over or engaged with the selection arm 34. This is especially desirable because it provides a force in a straight line along the axis of the pin arm 32 between the selection arm 34 and the weight 20 no matter where the arcuate path of openings 35 engaged with the selection arm 34, the pin arm 32 is engaged.

[0079] In figure 3, the upper weight support 22 is replaced by an upper connecting arm 48 and lower connecting arm 50, which both contain a bearing at each end. This mode allows the weight 20 to be lifted as in all modes, but unlike the hinged frame hitch in figures 1-2, the weight 20 follows a path during lifting in a central portion of the structure 16. The lower link arm 50 rotates around the pin arm bearing 30 of weight 20 and the support shaft

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27/36 bottom frame 53. The upper link arm 48 rotates around the upper link bearing 55, which is parallel to the upper support shaft 42.

[0080] As variations on this preferred mode, the lower link arm 50 and the upper link arm 48 can be arranged on the same or opposite sides of the weight 20 for a lower grip or greater stability, respectively.

[0081] Yet another preferred mode of device 10, according to figures 5-7, device 10 can be constructed to reduce the transport weight and allow a greater resistance range by configuration that allows the use of conventionally available weights and without the permanently engaged weights 20 in this configuration, the weight 20 is replaced by a vertical pivot arm 57, which is coupled to the upper and lower connecting arms 48, 50 through two bearing shafts. Above the upper link arm 48, the vertical link arm 57 contains a long weight axis 59 The weight axis 59 is adapted for operative engagement with one or a plurality of conventional bar counterweight plates 61 allowing increased user adjustment since the weight plates 61 are removably interlockable. The weight axis 59 must not be shorter or longer than necessary to maintain the number of alteration plates whose total mass is equal to the maximum load capacity of the device, and in a way to engage the counterweight plates 61, preferably, they have a length and diameter between 15.24 cm and 30.48 cm, and 5.08 cm respectively.

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8/3 6 [0082] An optional device 10 mode is shown in figures 8-10, applicable to all modes. As shown, a secondary weight or translational weight 71 can be slidably positioned along a path on the selection arm 34, allowing minor adjustments to the resistance. A thumb screw or pin and an opening can be used to hold the weight 71 in the desired position for minor adjustments to the resistance.

[0083] In figure 11 an optional mode of device 10 is shown for engaging the second end of pin arm 32 to any of the openings 35 along its arcuate path. As shown, a translation pin 73 which is lever 75 activated to engage or disengage with any of the openings 35. Pin 73 is coaxially engaged with corresponding threads on lever 75 such that rotation of lever 75 in one direction will project pin 73 and in the other direction will retract pin 73.

[0084] IS shown in figures 12 and 13 a way of the device 10 in that weight 20 is docked at frame to track about one or one plurality in rails

vertically arranged 77. Operationally, the device 10, like other modes, employs the unique arcuate path for engaging the pin arm 32 with a plurality of connection points for the distal end of the pin arm 32.

[0085] Figures 14-16 represent an automatic adjustment mode of the device 10 that employs a motor 81 and an operationally engaged gear 83 that provides means for adjusting the engagement point of the

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9/3 6 second end of pin arm 42 along an arcuate path of the selection arm 34. In this mode, the selection arm 34 must be formed as an arcuate element, because the second end of the pin arm 32 is in a sliding hitch 85 with the selection arm 34. The motor 81 by turning the gear 83 will move the sliding hitch from the second end of the pin arm 32 to any point on the arcuate path formed by the arcuate element that defines the selection arm 34. This sliding hitch driven by motor 81 allows automatic adjustment of resistance when the rotation of motor 81 turns gear 83 which is threaded to sliding hitch 85 and which will travel along the arc of the selection arm 34 in any direction, depending on the direction of rotation of the motor 81. This mode of device 10 allows remote control and automatic adjustment of resistance to an infinite number of points s of resistance along the arcuate axis of connection from pin arm 32 to selection arm 34. Can be adapted to be used in any mode of the present device 10.

[0086] Figure 17 is a front view in perspective of an especially preferred mode of the device 10. An enlarged representation of the device is also shown, the selector employable by the user 51 which works to engage and disengage a pin 52 in openings positioned adjacent 35 formed. in an arched pattern along the curved or arched selection arm 34.

[0087] In this modality of device 10, a sliding coupling of the pin arm at or adjacent to the

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0/3 6 distal end of the pin arm with the selection arm is formed. In a preferred mode, the sliding hitch is formed by the arrow a track 54 which is defined by the sides of a slot 62 formed in the arched selection arm 34 which is dimensioned for a cooperative bearing hitch with a roller 56 operatively connected to the pin arm 32 (Figure 16). Such a sliding hitch, such as that formed by the roller 56 positioned at t at the distal end of the pin arm 32 inside the track 54, eliminates the need for a bumper or stop such as the projection 63 (figure 1) for the selection 34 as in other device modes shown above.

[0088] Also shown in figures 17-20, the arcuate element forming the selection arm 34, having a double row of openings 35 following an arcuate path over the selection arm 34. In experimentation, constructing the device 10 in this mode, discovered a double row of openings 35, allowing pin 52 to fit concurrently with opening 35 in any row of openings 35, that weights 20 could be accommodated by device 10 with very small increments of resistance change based on change of mechanical advantage provided by positioning a pin 52 in an adjacent opening 35 in engagement with pin 52. Although a single curved row of openings 35 could be employed for engaging pin 52, it was found that this did not work well in small increments of effective weight resistance based on the change in mechanical advantage cannot be provided, such as the represented difference of five pounds (2.27 kg).

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31/36 [0089] Forming two curved rows of openings 35 along the curved or arched path, and alternating openings 35 in each row, between a pair of openings 35 in the opposite row, very small changes in effective resistance can be accommodated due to small changes in mechanical advantage. This is highly desirable for users. In addition, it is also desirable to progressively shorten the gap between the openings 35 of each row of openings 35, to maintain an increase in weight in relation to the translation of the cable 44, and to allow even small changes in the resistance provided by small changes mechanical advantage. Such small changes currently constitute a four to six pound change with five pounds being a favorite. Thus, an engagement of a pin 52 in each successive opening 35, along the two rows of openings 35, provides this same change in resistance to movement, and simultaneously maintains the one-to-one ratio of cable translation to increase the distance from the Weight.

[0090] Furthermore, it is desirable to limit the weight lifting distance and the cable travel distance. This is further accomplished by forming the lengths of the support arms 68 and 68a substantially equal and at a length between pivots 69 and 66, which is 80-86 percent of the distance from pin arm 32 that runs between pin 52 and the engaging the second end of the pin arm to the support arm 68a. Maintaining these reasons will limit the travel distance of the cable 44 and the equal simultaneous distance of the weight increase and decrease 20, at approximately 18-22

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32/36 inches. Currently, maximizing this weight shift and cable translation to 20 inches is a particularly favored configuration, as it works well to allow the use of device 10 in very confined spaces.

[0091] Additionally, as noted and as can be seen in figures 17-20, there is a decrease in the spacing of the openings 35 in each of the two parallel arched rows of openings 35, along the arched path over the selection arm 34 As you can see, the spacing between the adjacent openings 35 as they approach and become closer to the first end 58 of the selection arm 34, in both rows, becomes closer than the spacing of the openings 35 between si at the second end 60 of the selection arm 34. The openings 35 become closer to the first end 58 of the selection arm 34, in each of the two arched parallel rows of openings 35, each opening 35 in an arched row sequentially positioned openings 35, is slightly closer to the next subsequent opening 35 in the sequence, to the previous opening 35 in the sequence. This occurs in both rows of openings 35, since the openings 35 in a row are positioned between a pair of openings 35 in the opposite parallel row, except for the last opening 35 closest to the first end 58.

[0092] This sequentially smaller spacing between the adjacent openings 35 in the arched row or rows of openings 35, formed in the selection arm 34, as the openings become closer to the first

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33/36 end 58, is preferred as noted. This is due to the engagement between the pin 52 and one of the openings 35 in each row, in any position along the arched row of openings 35, forms a connection with the weight 20, so that a 1 to 1 ratio of elevation of the weight 20 for the travel distance of the cable 44 is maintained, and changes in the force required to raise the weight change in even increments.

[0093] Thus, a user pulling a cable attached to cable 44 by a distance of one foot, will simultaneously produce weight 20, one foot in elevation. This increase substantially equal to the travel distance also helps to maintain the force necessary to move the weight 20 on any given pin 52 and opening 35 along the sequence, equal or equal over a given repetition of the user who moves the cable 44, and in equal changed increments from adjacent openings 35 no matter which individual opening 35 is engaged by a pin 52.

[0094] It is shown in the enlarged part of figure 17, the section cable 51 that has a curved slot 62 slidably fitted with a projection element 64, which is connected to pins 52 to move them in and out of the openings 35 when aligned with it. A twist of the cable 51 will cause the projection element 64 to move towards or away from the selection arm 34, and thus translating one of the pins 52 aligned with an opening 35 in the opening 35. A spring (not shown) between both pins 52 and element 64, allows element 64 to compress the spring over the hitch pin 52 and force it into the aligned opening 35, and to

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34/36 simultaneously close a gap between the second pin 52 not aligned with the opening 35 at the moment.

[0095] A rear plan view of the device 10 as in figure 16 is shown in figure 18, together with an enlarged representation of the sliding coupling between the distal end of the pin arm 32 and the track 54 defined by the slot formed in the selection arm 34. As can be seen, the roller 56 is cooperatively inserted into the slot 55 that forms the track 54. As can also be seen, the sequentially smaller spacing between each opening 35 in the row of openings 35 running in an arched path over the arm selection 34. As can be seen, the distance between each opening 35 decreases sequentially as the openings 35 become closer to the first end 58 of the selection arm 34. The same arrangement of components can be seen in the rear perspective view of device 10 of figure 19.

[0096] Another perspective view of the device figure 10 of figure 16 is shown in figure 20. As can be seen in that view, the larger weights 20 of figure 16 are removed from the mounting members 66 and are usable with free weights. such as those used in dams or the like, or other weights having an opening adapted to engage the mounting members 66. These mounting elements 66 are also shown in figure 16, extending beyond the plate weights 20 to allow smaller ones extra free weights 21 are engaged, if desired, for small changes in increment resistance. They are also more clearly

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35/3 6 shown in figure 19, the support arms 68 and 68a that are in a pivoting engagement 69 at first ends with the frame 16, and rotate upward with the weight 20, fixed when pulled by the translation of the cable 44 when pulled by a user. The translation of the cable 44 is communicated to at least one support arm 68a by the pin arm 32 which is connected to the selection arm 34, which, as shown, connects to the cable 44 at the second end 60. Thus, the translation of the cable 44 will move the selection arm 34 and the connected pin arm 32 that rotates on the support arms 68 and 68a and thus move the weight 20 upwards by a distance, which is a distance equal to the translation displacement of the cable 44, no matter which pin 52 is fitted to which opening 35 along the two parallel rows of openings 35 in the arcuate path.

[0097] As noted, any of the different configurations and components can be used with any other configuration or component shown and described here. Additionally, although the present invention has been described here with reference to its specific modalities and the figure steps in the production method, a latitude of modifications, various changes and substitutions are proposed in the above descriptions, it will be appreciated that, in some cases, some characteristics , or configurations, or steps of forming the invention can be employed without corresponding use of other features without departing from the scope of the invention as set out in the following claims. All of these changes, alternations and modifications as would occur for those skilled in the art are considered to be within the

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6/3 6 scope of this invention as broadly defined in the appended claims.

[0098] Furthermore, the purpose of any summary of this specification is to enable the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the general public, and especially scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with the terms laws or patent phraseology, quickly determine, from a superficial inspection, the nature and essence of the technical revelation of the application. Any such summary is not intended to define the invention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended in any way to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims (25)

1. Exercise equipment with an apparatus for selecting a quantity of weight to be lifted by a user, comprising: a frame; a selection arm that has a proximal end connected pivotally to the frame; a support arm having a proximal end pivotally connected to the frame; a weight connected to the support arm; a pin arm having a proximal end connected to the support arm and a distal end connected to the selection arm; a locking mechanism that keeps the distal end of the pin arm adjacent to the selection arm while: being unlocked to allow the distal end of the pin arm to be moved to the left a plurality of positions along the length of the selection arm, or being locked to maintain the distal end of the pin arm at one end of the plurality of positions along the length of the selection arm; and a cable connected to the selection arm, in which the tension applied to the cable lifts a free end of the selection arm, thereby lifting the pin arm and lifting the weight. 2. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism maintains the distal end of the pin arm adjacent the Petition 870190063816, of 07/08/2019, p. 41/61 2/4 selection while the pin arm is moved between the plurality of positions along the length of the selection arm. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the pin arm is slidably connected to the support arm and the distal end of the pin arm is slidably connected to the selection arm. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, in which the proximal ends of the selection arm and the support arm are both connected to a first side of the frame. Exercise equipment according to claim 4, wherein the distal end of the selection arm extends beyond a second side of the frame. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the pin arm is a rigid element. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the weight is disposed on either side of the support arm. Exercise equipment according to claim 7, wherein the weight comprises two or more flat panel weights mounted on opposite sides of the support arm. 9. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the pin arm is connected to the selection arm so that the selection arm cannot be moved without moving the pin arm. 10. Exercise equipment according to Petition 870190063816, of 07/08/2019, p. 42/61 3/4 of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a pin in the pin arm received in an opening in the selection arm. Exercise equipment according to claim 10, wherein the locking mechanism forces the pin into the opening in the selection arm. 12. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, in which the selection arm is curved. Exercise equipment according to claim 12, wherein the selection arm comprises a slit that extends along it. Exercise equipment according to claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a roll received in the slot. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the selection arm comprises at least one row of openings. Exercise equipment according to claim 15, in which the openings are spaced progressively further apart as they approach the distal end of the selection arm. Exercise equipment according to claim 15, wherein the selection arm comprises two rows of openings that are staggered with each other. Exercise equipment according to claim 15, wherein a cable in the locking mechanism is rotated to retract a pin from one of the openings. 19. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, in which the cable is connected to the end Petition 870190063816, of 07/08/2019, p. 43/61 4/4 distal of the selection arm. 20. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, further comprising: a mounting bar connected to the support arm to receive free weights on it. 21. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, further comprising: a second support arm having a proximal end pivotally connected to the frame and a distal end connected to the weight, where the support arm and the second support arm rotate in parallel as tension on the cable increases the weight. 22. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the cable travel distance is equal to the height at which the weight is lifted. 23. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, wherein the distal end of the pin arm can be locked in a position on the selection arm such that the cable travel distance is equal to the height at which the weight is lifted by pulling the cable. 24. Exercise equipment according to claim 1, further comprising: a gear and motor to adjust the position of the distal end of the pin arm along the length of the selection arm. 25. Exercise equipment according to claim 24, further comprising: a remote control to control the operation of the gear and motor.