JPS61131768A - Athletic machine - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Technical Field The present invention relates to an exercise machine for exercising many of the major muscle groups of the body. More particularly, the present invention is highly versatile and provides a novel method that uses electrically actuated brakes as a resistance device against which muscles act, controlling the level of force exerted by the brakes. It relates to an exercise machine having a controller. The exercise machine of the present invention is primarily used for anaerobic exercise, but may also be used for aerobic exercise.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The effects of balanced exercise programs on AM have become increasingly well known in recent years.

Modern medical thinking suggests that exercise programs must include aerobic and anerobic exercises. Aerobic exercise increases the number of people who exercise, increasing the number of knowledge to a high range of at least 10 to 1.
Any exercise that conditions the vascular system by maintaining it for 5 minutes. On the other hand, anaerobic exercise is for increasing the size of muscles and the ability of muscles to perform work, and is a so-called ``bodybuilding'' exercise. The effect of aerobic exercise cannot be increased by 1q by general anerobic exercise.

Aerobic exercise is accomplished by walking, running, swimming, or any other physical activity that increases mental count. Additionally, various machines have been developed for use as aerobic treadmills, rowing machines, cross-country ski equipment, and the like. Such machines can also be used indoors and are desirable when climate conditions make it difficult to perform aerobic exercises performed outdoors.

Similarly, many devices have been developed to train muscle groups in an anearobic manner. Many of these devices are free-standing barbells or weights. However, various machines have been developed for use in gymnasiums, such as the Universal weight machine and the machine incorporated into the Nautilus system. For example, a typical universal
The weight machine includes a rectangular frame with a plurality of stations along the sides of the frame. A plurality of weight stacks are carried by the frame and connected to various equipment and attachments.

The weight stack has a releasable locking pin that allows the weight to be changed. Basically, the position of the station is changed for each exercise such as chest press or leg press.

The Nautilus system is also noteworthy. This system includes a number of specialized exercise machines configured to perform one or at most some of the many exercises necessary to exercise all muscle groups of the body. In fact, in a complete Nautilus system for performing over 25 movements, there will be at least 17 UA of individual machines. Each machine typically includes a support bench on which the user sits or lies and a weight stack. The weight stack is connected via a rotatable cam to an instrument that is rotated or pushed by the user. The purpose of the cam is to exert a substantially constant force on the leg muscles throughout the range of motion of the exercise. Some of the principles behind the Nautilus system, particularly the use of cams, are explained in detail in US Pat. No. 3,858,873.

Although the Universal and Nautilus systems are effective, they have a number of drawbacks. For example, the basic rectangular universal motion machine is relatively heavy and bulky, thereby limiting the number of motions it can perform. For example, even in a universal system, other separate machines are required to perform leg bending and leg extension movements. However, this machine does not allow for leg abduction or adduction movements. Moreover, the Nautilus system is characterized by the use of independent machines for performing exercises independent of each other, so that a large number of machines are required to train the body in a complete manner. The expense required to purchase such machines and the relatively large area required to install such machines make them unsuitable for use by consumers in their own homes. Such machines are commonly used in gymnasiums, health clubs,
or found only in other organized sports facilities.

In fact, considering the devices currently available for purchase by consumers for home use, the devices are relatively limited. Many such devices include benches of the type that have pivoting rollers at one end that are used to perform common leg extension and leg bending exercises. The other end of the bench often has a crosspiece member that supports a barbell or the like. Additionally, spring tensioners are often provided on such benches.

Various patents exist that suggest that it is desirable for consumers to have exercise machines in their homes for exercising many different muscle groups. U.S. Pat. No. 4,429,871 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,465,274 are recent examples of how those skilled in the art have approached such problems. The basic driving force behind the devices disclosed in these U.S. patents is a support member on which the user is seated, and which rotates the arms and legs around a horizontal axis passing through the knees, elbows, and shoulders. It has a support member configured to rotate. However, these machines also allow for pivoting about a vertical axis through the hips and shoulders.

The device disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. No. 4,429,871 is adapted to accomplish this by providing independent stations at which the user is located depending on the type of pivoting required. . The device disclosed in the aforementioned U.S. Pat. This is achieved by:

Although these two US patents recognized the need for versatile machines, they have various drawbacks. For example, many exercise attachments that are pressed by a user to perform an exercise require their own separate hydraulic cylinder as the resistance generating element. The use of such a large number of independent hydraulic cylinders increases machine complexity and cost. Hydraulic cylinders are also not suitable for domestic use because they can leak hydraulic fluid. Additionally, approaches to solving movement problems that require movement about a vertical axis through the hips or shoulders are accomplished somewhat clumsily. Fundamentally, such an approach requires completely independent force-generating elements within one case arranged in separate stations to achieve this. Furthermore, geometrical limitations of the machine require that the user be positioned on the support bench in a position other than the ideal exercise position.

Electromagnetic brakes have already been proposed to have some utility in aerobic exercise machines. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,084,810 discloses an electromagnetic brake used as a resistance force generator in stationary bicycles. However, the applicant of this U.S. patent is not aware of the electromagnetic brakes used in the machine that can train both sides of the body in an anerobic manner; U.S. Pat. An electromagnetic brake mounted on the is disclosed. The brake is such that its armature shaft can be pivoted so that it extends vertically toward the ceiling or horizontally toward the wall. Various attachments resembling everyday items, such as screwdrivers, can be attached to the armature. These attachments are grasped by a person with an injured muscle who wishes to rotate the instrument in a normal manner to rehabilitate his or her injured muscle. Although this utilizes electromagnetic brakes in devices other than stationary mills, this US patent does not suggest the use of brakes in a manner that would be useful for anaeropic ribbing machines.

Finally, as a prior application related to the present invention, there is an international application (publication number WO30100308) whose international publication gazette was published on March 6, 1980.

This international application describes a device used for measuring muscle strength, comprising a support that is moved up and down on a scissor-like frame and slid longitudinally back and forth on the frame. An apparatus having a bench is disclosed. A carriage is provided to transport the resistance generator from one side of the bench to the other to measure muscle strength on both sides of the body.

The resistance force generators are also arranged so as to be pivotable so that their axis of action changes from the horizontal direction to the vertical direction. It has also been recognized that such configurations provide a degree of motion benefit.

Although the above-mentioned international application discloses a movable and pivotable resistance force generating device, it does not disclose an effective movement machine. In part, because the brake must be moved from one side to the other, it is only disclosed that only one half of the body is examined or trained at a time. Furthermore, the above-mentioned international application does not disclose the use of electromagnetic brakes, but only relatively crude different types of resistance force generating devices. Furthermore, in such machines, much of the movement is accomplished only in positions other than ideal positions.

Therefore, this international application does not disclose an effective versatile exercise machine.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an exercise machine that uses electrically actuated brakes, preferably electromagnetic brakes, that are movable to exercise many of the major muscle groups of the body. In fact, the exercise machine of the present invention uses two aforementioned starting brakes that allow both sides of the body to be trained simultaneously.

One aspect of the invention is an exercise machine having a frame on which two resistance generating devices are longitudinally movable to exercise both lower body and upper body muscle groups. The resistance generating devices are pivotally mounted so that they are also useful for exercising parts of the body that pivot in various planes.

Another aspect of the invention is the use of an electrically actuated brake or resistance device on the exercise machine, where the resistance is independently controlled during muscle extension and contraction movements.

Another aspect of the invention is an exercise machine configured such that electromagnetic brakes are used to exercise muscle groups aerobically and anerobically. Aerobic exercise is performed by setting the brake force level to a relatively low level to allow for a large number of repetitions.

Anaerobic movements are also performed by setting the force level to a relatively high value with a small number of repetitions.

Yet another aspect of the invention is an exercise machine having a frame in which the two side frame members extend from a position substantially below the user to a position above the user. The force generating device is movable along each side frame member. The side frame members are sloped laterally outwardly so that the axes of the force generating devices are spaced more apart when they are positioned above the user than when they are positioned below the user. It is being Still another aspect of the present invention is the exercise machine as described above, in which the side frame members extend in an arcuate manner from the front to the rear.

Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a highly versatile exercise machine. For example, a user can use one exercise machine to perform various exercises while being supported in an optimal position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The invention will be explained in detail below by way of example embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In FIGS. 1 and 2, an exercise machine according to the invention is designated generally at 2. FIG. Exercise machine 2 is frame 4
The frame includes a support bench 20 on which the user of the exercise machine sits or lies. frame 4
carries resistance devices for exercising various muscle groups on both sides of the user's body supported on the bench 2o.

This resistance device has two electrically actuated brakes 62
, preferably includes an electromagnetic brake. These brakes can be moved longitudinally on the frame 4 to exercise the muscles of the lower and upper body, and the axis of action of the brakes 62 can be changed in various directions, thereby allowing various parts of the body to be moved. It is adapted to pivot on the frame 4 to accommodate training movements that require pivoting in various planes. The resistance provided by brake 62 is adapted to be controlled by a novel controller 200 which is adapted to display various physiological data to the user of exercise machine 2.

Frame As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the frame 4 is a rectangular base frame sized to cover a sufficiently large area on the floor so that the entire exercise machine 2 is stable during use. Contains 5. Two left and right side frame members 6 are attached to each side of the base frame 5 some distance behind the front edge of the base frame 5. The side frame members 6 are arched from the front to the rear and extend vertically upward so that their upper ends are located substantially above the rear edge of the base frame 5. A top rail 7 integrally connects the upper ends of the side frame members 6 to each other. Thus, the side frame member 6 and the top rail 7 define a U-shaped frame,
The legs of the letter 0 are defined by side frame members 6 laterally spaced from each other, and the top rail 1 defines the closed end of the letter 0. Additionally, a transverse crosspiece 8 extends between the side frame members adjacent to the lower ends of the side frame members 6, thereby reinforcing the side frame members.

The frame 4 also includes two rear rails 9, which are connected to a top rail 7 and a base frame 5.
It extends perpendicularly between the frame 4 and the frame 4 to further strengthen the frame 4. Furthermore, the frame 4 includes a longitudinally extending rail 10 having a substantially horizontal rear section 11 and a downwardly sloping front section 12. The front portion 12 of the rail 10 is attached to the center of the base frame 5 adjacent to the front edge of the base frame. rail 1
The rear end of the rear part 11 of 0 is attached to a horizontal cross piece 13, and the cross piece 13 extends between the rear rails 9 at a height position of about 1/3 of the length of the rear rails 9. . The rails 10 provide a means for slidably supporting a support bench 20 on the frame as will be explained in more detail below.

All parts of the frame 4 described above, such as the base frame 5 and the side frame members 6, are comprised of substantially cylindrical hollow tubes made of steel or any other material of sufficient strength. It is formed by base frame 5
The welds and the attachment of the crosspiece 8.13, except for the welds at points, the hollow tubes are interconnected by mutually opposing T-shaped ramps 14, which are fixed to each other by bolts 15. Bolts 15 are clamps 14 facing each other
and through a hole in one end of a hollow tube fixed to each other.

However, other materials for the frame members may be used with any other method of securing the frame members together. For example, the base frame 5 may be a solid rectangular member rather than an open rectangular frame defined by a cylindrical tube.

The frame 4 has two important geometrical features that must first be noted here. The first feature is that the side frame member 6 is curved in an arcuate manner from the front toward the rear as it goes upward, as shown in FIG. A second feature is that the side frame members 6 are slightly sloped or curved laterally outward as they move upward, i.e. the lateral distance between the side frame members 6 (X in FIG. 2 gradually increases upwards. These features assist in properly orienting the axis of action of the brake for various motions, as will be explained in more detail below. do.

Support Bench In FIGS. 2-4, a support bench 20 for the user of the exercise machine 2 is arranged on a longitudinal rail 10 between the side frame members 6. In FIGS. Bench 20 includes a substantially horizontal seat 22 and a backrest 24 that may be inclined relative to the seat. Seat 22 and backrest 24, which are similar to each other except for their length, include an elastic cushion 27 attached to a base 28.

The backrest 24 is tilted upwardly at any desired angle relative to the seat 22 from a position in which it lies substantially in the same plane as the seat 22, i.e., a position in which the user can lie upright. The user is moved to an upright position, ie a position in which the user can be seated at least partially upright. Backrest 24
Infinite adjustment is accomplished with a seat adjuster 26 of the type commonly found in automobiles.
In particular, the illustrated seat adjuster was adopted from Honda automobiles.

The seat 22 has two longitudinally extending support rods 3o.
It is slidably mounted on the rail 10 so that its position can be adjusted in the longitudinal direction. Each rod 30 has a 1-shaped inner bracket 31 and an outer bracket 3 for mounting.
By placing a rod between the seat 2 and the seat 2 and fixing the rod to the vertical wall of the bracket with bolts 33
It is fixed at 2. Each of the seven outer brackets 32 has a horizontal wall 35 fixed to the lower surface of the base 28 of the seat 22 by a tap bolt 36 or the like. In FIG. 3, one rod 30 is broken to illustrate how the horizontal wall 35 is attached to the seat 22, and the bracket 31 is broken.
The other rod 30 is shown in its complete state to illustrate the attachment of the rod 30 to the rods 30 and 32. The inner bracket 31, which is considerably longer than the outer bracket 32 and extends further forward than the outer bracket, is also connected to the horizontal wall 3.
Contains 8. The horizontal wall 38 defines a support surface on which one end 39 of a saddle-shaped rod 40 rests;
0 is the rail 1 slightly behind the connection point between the horizontal part (rear part 11) and the inclined part (front part 12) of the rail 10.
It is fixed to the bottom surface of 0. The support bench 20 is fixed and stabilized on the frame 4 by the engagement between the inner bracket 31 and the rod 40. Furthermore, the seat 22 has two forward and upwardly inclined hand grips 41.
These hand grips are fixed to the front end of the outer bracket 32 by screwing. Hand grip 41 may be held by the user while performing various exercises.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each longitudinally extending support rod 30 has a sleeve 4 fixedly mounted on the longitudinal rail 1o by a cross bracket 43.
It is designed to slide within 2. At least one sleeve 42 has a transverse hole 44 extending therethrough, which hole is adapted to be aligned with any one of a set of holes 45 in one of the rods 30. There is. Lock bin 4 with a spring-loaded ball (not shown) at the outer end
6 may be inserted through either a hole 44 provided in the sleeve 42 or a hole 45 provided in the rod 30, thereby fixing the support bench 20 in a predetermined position on the rail 10. . Release the lock bin 46 and remove the rod 3o.
can move freely within the sleeve 42 and then move the entire support bench 2o on the rail 10 by pulling or pushing the seat 22, thereby adjusting the position of the support bench 20 if necessary. It can be changed. Therefore, the inner bracket 31 must be long enough to remain engaged with the rod 4o throughout the range of movement of the bench 2°.

In FIG. 4, the seat adjuster 26 includes an inner seat bracket 48 and an outer seat bracket 49. The inner seat bracket 48 is, for example, a bolt 33
and is secured to the inner bracket 32 by a second bolt 50 and includes a substantially circular ear 51 extending overlapping the edge of the seat 22. Similarly, the outer seat bracket 49 is secured to the backrest 24 by bolts 50 and includes circular ears 52. The ear portion 52 is the ear portion 51 of the bracket 48.
It is pivotally received on a more outwardly extending pivot bin 53. Pivot bin 53 has a slot at its outer end within which one end of torsion spring 54 is disposed. Torsion spring 5
The other end of 4 engages a tab 55 on the upper bracket 49, so that the torsion spring 54 is activated when the backrest 24 is in the flat extended position, i.e., when the backrest is in the position indicated by arrow A in FIG. When pivoting in the direction, it is rolled up and tensioned. The torsion spring 54 thus constitutes a means of counteracting the weight of the backrest 24, such that when the backrest 24 is released, the tension of the spring' allows the backrest 24 to rise quickly. A washer 56 extends overlapping the hub of spring 54, and a spring clip 57 engages the outer end of pivot pin 53, thereby holding the parts of seat adjuster 26 in the assembled condition. . As shown in FIG. 1, a circular cover 58 covers the ears 52 and springs 54. Seat adjuster 26 is used on only one side of seat 22. On the other side of the seat 22, a simple hinge bin along the same axis as the appropriate hinge bracket and pivot pin 53 is used.

As is typical in such types of seat adjusters, the engagement surfaces of the ears 5''1 and 52, i.e. the adjustment angle, are used to secure the backrest 24 in an adjusted position relative to the seat 22.
The face is provided with a ratchet and ball-to-ball connection (not shown). The pole is releasably actuated by five levers, the levers 5'9 extending upwardly along the backrest 24 through slots 60 provided in the four outer brackets to be actuated by the user. It extends to When the lever 59 is pulled forward from the solid line position in FIG.

When the user releases the lever 59, the spring returns the lever 59 to the solid line position and the ball re-engages the ratchet, thereby re-securing the backrest 24 to the seat 22. The type of seat adjuster 26 shown is
According to this, the angle of the backrest 24 is determined by the spacing of the teeth of the ratchet in a virtually infinite variety, which is preferred, but the backrest 24 can be adjusted to only one or several tilted positions relative to the seat 22. Means for fixing may be used.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support bench 20 is carried on the frame 4 and is slidably adjustable in position relative to the frame. However, this is not necessarily necessary for the present invention. It is also possible to omit the longitudinal rail 10 and use a support bench which has a seat and a tiltable backrest, but is not connected to the frame 4 at all and is supported on the floor.

The resistance device carried on the resistance device frame 4 and providing an opposing force as the user moves comprises two electrically actuated brakes, generally indicated at 62, preferably known in the art. (includes two electromagnetic brakes of any conventional type known).

The brake 62 includes a substantially circular case 63 having an output shaft 64 projecting from one side thereof. The output shaft 64 forms part of the armature of the brake or is connected to a similar armature, which armature is surrounded by an electrical winding in a known manner.

When electricity is supplied to the windings, a magnetic field is generated that resists rotation of the armature. Rotation of the output shaft 64 is thus resisted by a variable force that is directly dependent on the current supplied to the windings. The greater the resistance to rotation, the greater the force the user must oppose during movement.

1, 2, and 5, each side frame member 6 is longitudinally movable using a substantially identical slidable carriage 66 incorporating a hinge 100. It pivotally carries one brake 62. Each carriage 66 has an upper clamp 67 and a lower clamp 6 facing each other surrounding the periphery of the side frame member 6.
8, and these clamps are fixed to each other by bolts 69. Upper clamp 67 is formed from one piece and is substantially semicircular with side flanges 70 through which bolts 69 extend. The lower clamp 68 includes three mutually independent members bolted to the upper clamp 67.
That is, it includes a thick central module 72 with semi-circular holes that fit around the side frame members 6, and two small semi-circular clamps 71 located on either side of the module. The members described above, including the lower clamp 68, may be integrally constructed into a single member. Clamps 67 and 68 are shown tightly (clamped) on the side frame member 6, but the support carriage 6
So that 6 can move cleanly without causing galling,
Sufficient clearance or low friction bushings are used between the clamp and the side frame members.

5 and 6, the lower portion of each side frame member 6 has a rack 74 with gear teeth along an arcuate curve substantially from the top end to the bottom end. The gear teeth 75 of the rack 74 face the outside of the side frame member 6. The central module 72 has a cavity 76 that rotatably accommodates a nion 77 . The pinion 77 engages the pinion 74 thereby forming a rack and pinion connection between the side frame member 6 and the carriage 66. Pinion 77 is mounted or keyed to one end of a shaft 79 that extends outwardly through module 72 to be connected to one end of rotary handle 81 by roll pin 8Q. The free end of the handle 81 carries a rotatable ball 82 which is adapted to be grasped by the user to rotate the handle. When the handle 81 is rotated, the binion 77 rotates while being engaged with the rack 74, thereby moving the carriage 66 up and down along the side frame member 6. The rat-and-binion mechanism also assists in supporting the iml of the carriage 66 and facilitates moving the carriage up and down along the side frame member 6.

Two independent locking devices are provided for locking the support carriage 66 in place on the side frame member 6, a primary locking device and an auxiliary locking device.

The main locking device is shown in FIG. 6 and includes a rectangular block 83 located in the cavity 76 or in another completely separate cavity above the location of the pinion 77. The block 83 is suitable for abutting the side of the rack 74 and extends across the plurality of gear teeth 75. A threaded handle 84 is provided, the inner end 85 of which is located within the cavity 76 adjacent the block 83. The outer end 86 of the handle 84 is located outside the module 72 and is connected to the transport machine 2.
It is designed to be held by the user. When the handle 84 is rotated in the appropriate direction, the block 83 is brought into engagement with the outer surface of the rack 74, thereby locking the carriage 66 on the side frame member 6. This main locking device is preferably used whenever brake 62 is used as a resistance device. This is because the main locking device has a greater holding force than the auxiliary locking device which will now be described.

If you want to change the position of the carriage 66, press block 8.
The main locking device defined by 3 must first be released. However, if the user does not hold the handle 81 in that case, the weight of the brake 62 will cause the support carriage 66 to be abruptly driven downward along the rack 74. Therefore, to avoid such problems, the handle 81 is provided with an auxiliary locking device which serves to hold the support carriage 66 in position even if the main locking device is released by the user. It looks like this.

In Figures 5 and 7, the auxiliary locking device is located on the handle 8.
1 includes a bushing button 87 held within a ball 82 carried in any suitable manner. The bushing button 87 has an inner end that abuts one end 89 of the bell crank lever 90.

The bell crank lever 90 is rotatably supported on a pivot pin 91 carried on the back of the handle 81.

The other end of the bell crank lever 91 is formed as a fork 92 connected to a lock bin 93. The locking bin 93 is carried in a sleeve 94 on the handle 81 and is biased upwardly by a spring 95 towards a plate 96 on one side of the module 72 . The plate 96 is provided with a plurality of lock holes 97 spaced apart in the circumferential direction for receiving the lock bin 93. However, when the user rotates the handle 81,
When it is desired to move the carriage 66 by rotating the pinion 77, the lock pin 93 is inserted into the lock hole 97.
The lock pin 93 must be driven downward against the spring force of the spring 95 until it is unlatched (the user must first press the button button 87 inward. Once this is done, the handle Rotational movement of 81 and movement of carriage 66 are enabled.

It is clear that the primary locking device and the secondary locking device may have any suitable form. For example, an auxiliary locking device may be provided by supporting the handle 81 on a pivot 79 so that the handle 81 swings slightly towards or away from the back of the module 72. In that case, the handle 81 is provided with a locking lug that is pivotably fitted into one of a plurality of recesses provided on the back surface of the module 72. The handle 81 may also be provided with a spring that constantly urges the handle to such a locked position. In that case, to unlock the handle, the user must first swing the handle in an appropriate direction to disengage the lock lug before rotating the handle.

However, in the illustrated embodiment, the side frame members 61 . :Longitudinal movement along is achieved by unlocking the main locking device by rotating the threaded handle 84 outwards, then grasping the ball 82 carried by the handle 81 with one hand, and then pushing the button. Press the button 87 to release the auxiliary locking device, then rotate the handle 81 in an appropriate direction to lock the binion 77 into the rack 74 according to the direction of rotation of the handle.
This is done by moving it up and down along the In addition to such longitudinal vertical movement along the side frame member 6, from a first position where the axis of action of each brake 62, i.e. output shaft 64, is substantially horizontal, to a first position where the output shaft is substantially vertical. It may be pivoted to two positions. Such pivoting is enabled by a hinge structure generally designated 100 in FIGS. 8 and 9.

8 and 9, the upper clamp 67 of each support carriage 66 includes a substantially outwardly extending L-shaped support flange 101 with a free leg 10 of the flange.
2 extends downward.

The leg 102 has a circular boss 103 which carries a hinge bin 104 which is fixed to the boss 103 by a pin 105 so that it cannot rotate. Furthermore, the support flange 101 has a substantially vertical circular boss 106 having a locking pin 107 therein. lock bin 1
07 is biased downward by a spring 108 housed within the boss 106, and the spring 108 abuts against the upper end of the boss 106 and a large diameter washer 109 on the lock pin 107. The lock bin 107 is moved upward by operating a handle 110 provided at the upper end of the pin.

A support frame 112 is rotatably carried on the hinge bin 104 and has a fairly large circular hole 113 in the center of the frame 112 and two diameter holes along the upper edge on each side. It has a large circular boss 114. Disposed within these bosses 114 are bushings 115 each having a flange for receiving a hinge bin 104 in order to pivotally support the support frame 112 on the hinge bin 104 in a hinge manner.

One of the circular bosses 114 has a 90' spaced apart from each other.
and a generally raised portion forming a cam having a second locking recess 116.

The recess 116 is the support frame 112 and therefore the brake 6
Lock bin 1 to lock 2 in one of two positions.
It is formed in a size to engage with the tapered end portion of 07.

As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the case 63 of the brake 62 has a plurality of screw holes 117 around its periphery.
These screw holes are provided so that they can be approached from either side of the case 63. Preferably, the case 63 is attached to the outside of the support frame 112 by bolts 118 that engage threaded holes 117.

In such a mounting structure, the output shaft 64 of the brake is inserted into the circular hole 11 so as to extend inwardly toward the inside of the exercise machine 2.
3 and extends inward.

Each brake 62 has a substantially vertical brake output shaft 64, as shown in solid lines in FIG.
has a first position that is substantially horizontal. However, if it is desired to pivot the brake 62 to a substantially horizontal position and the output shaft 64 to be substantially vertical, the hinge bin 1
07 from one recess 116, the hinge bin 107 is first pulled upward. Then brake 6
The entire support frame 112 is rotated about the hinge bin 104 until the support frame 2 reaches the horizontal position shown in phantom in FIG. In such a position, the other recess 1
16 is substantially aligned with the end of lock bin 107. When the locking pin 107 is released, it engages the other recess 116, thereby locking the brake 62 in its horizontal position. Each brake 62 is thus not only movable longitudinally along the side frame member 6, but also pivotable relative to the side frame member by means of a hinge 100.

Once the brake 62 is mounted on the support carriage 66,
The entire assembly is relatively heavy. In the illustrated embodiment,
A rack and section arrangement is provided to assist in supporting such quantities Ii and to move the carriage 66 along the side frame members 6. However, some electrically operated brakes are so lightweight that a rack-and-binion mechanism is not required. In such a case, the means for securing the brake to the side frame members may be a simple sliding member carried on the side frame members.

Exercise attachment 1. Stomach exercise machine 2
In order for the brake to perform the various exercise functions useful, various exercise attachments that contact the body must be coupled to the rotating output shaft 64 of the brake 62. Figure 1 shows a first attachment 11 useful for performing arm and chest exercises.
9 is shown. FIG. 9 also shows a second attachment 120 useful for performing various leg exercises.

These attachments generally include a hollow sleeve that fits over the output shaft 64 of the brake and a hollow sleeve that extends outwardly from the sleeve, as do the other two attachments that include all sets of attachments for motion machines. It includes an elongated bar or arm and a member disposed at the end of the arm or along the length of the arm for contacting a moving part of the body. The exercise attachment shown in FIG. 9 will now be described in detail, although each of the other attachments includes the same major components.

FIG. 9 shows an exercise attachment 120 of the type used for leg bending and stretching exercises. This attachment 12
0 includes a single-shaped bar 122 with a padded roller 124 at one end.

Although the rollers 124 are fixed to the bar 122 in the illustrated embodiment, the rollers may be spaced apart from each other along the bar 122 to vary the effective length of the attachment 120 to suit each user. The bar 122 may be adjustably secured to the bar 122 by connecting to any of a series of holes provided therein. Velcro type flap? An adjustable strap 126, which may have a snare, is attached to the roller 1.
24, which allows the user's legs to be secured to the rollers. Since the brake 62 has no restoring force under normal conditions, a strap 126 is required for some movements so that the user can return the attachment 120 and the output shaft 64 of the brake to their original positions. .

Attachment 12 requires such a strap.
Only 0. The other end of the bar 122 has a hollow sleeve 128 that fits over the output shaft 64 of the brake 62. The sleeve 128 is connected to the transverse hole 13 provided in the output shaft 64.
It has a transverse hole 129 aligned with 0. A locking pin 131 having an outwardly biased ball 132 at one end is inserted through the transverse holes 129 and 130 when they are aligned with each other to lock the attachment 120 to the output shaft 64. Thus attachment 120
must be rotationally driven by the user to rotate the output shaft 64.

10 and 11 illustrate a second embodiment of a device for coupling attachment 120 or other attachments to the output shaft 64 of a brake. In this embodiment, a separate, independent lock bin 131 that could be accidentally lost by the user is not used. In this second embodiment, the sleeve 128 has an annular ramp 134 located substantially adjacent the same location as the transverse hole 129. The inclined surface 134 may be formed as a groove having a rectangular cross section. Further, the outer end of the output shaft 64 has two locking lugs 136 therein which are biased radially outwardly by a spring 137. In a normal state, the lock lug 136 protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface of the output shaft 64, thereby engaging the inclined surface 134 and connecting the attachment 120 to the output shaft 64.

The inner circumferential surface of the sleeve 128 and the outer circumferential surface of the output shaft 64 have splines that allow resistance torque to be transmitted between the brake 62 and the attachment 120.

Additionally, this second embodiment includes a release device that drives the locking lug 136 radially inwardly to disengage the ramped surface 134, thereby allowing the attachment 120 to be withdrawn from the output shaft 64. There is. The release device includes a circular knob 138 held in place by a snap ring 140 within a cavity 139 in the outer end of the output shaft 64. Knob 138 is rotatable and includes two drive pins 141 extending inwardly and each connected to locking lug 136 . knob 138
When the lock lug 136 is rotated in an appropriate direction, the drive pin 141 moves the lock lug 136 backward against the force of the spring 13a.

This releases locking lug 136 from engagement with ramp 134, allowing attachment 120 to be removed.

The controller allows the user to set the level of effort, i.e. the force applied by the brake 62, depending on the exercise machine and the configuration of the muscle groups being trained, as well as the overall level of coordination of the user, as described above. An electronic controller or control system 200 is provided. This control system allows the user to make a first torque setting for one direction of movement of the brake output shaft 64 corresponding to the first 1/2 cycle of movement, and a second torque setting for the return movement, i.e. allows the user to perform a second torque setting for a 1/2 cycle of motion. This allows the user to adjust and set the level of force in each 1/2 cycle to match the strength of the muscle groups being trained during each 1/2 cycle, as described above. is important.

Thus, the level of force in the second 1/2 cycle may be higher or lower than the level of force in the first 1/2 cycle. Also during exercise, the control system monitors the operation of the exercise machine and determines the number of exercise cycles per minute, each exercise! II] Total number of repetitions of the exercise per interval,
The amount of energy consumed per hour and the total amount of energy consumed during the exercise period are displayed to the user.

Although the control system of the present invention may take many different forms, the preferred form is a microprocessor-based controller as shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram in which signal connections between each functional block are shown by a single control line.

However, in reality, the number and type of microprocessor ports, whether serial or parallel, and the need to provide chip select and clock signals to the individual circuits, and generally known in the art, may vary. A large number of signal or control lines are required, depending on the connection to the power supply and ground. These lines are listed in the 12th section for purposes of clarity and because details about such lines are generally known in the art and will vary depending on the type of microprocessor and other circuitry used. It is omitted in the figure.

In FIG. 12, numeral 210 designates a microprocessor having a number of input and output ports and including ROM memory for storing operating programs for the control system, as will be explained later.

A keyboard 220 is provided to allow the user to enter torque settings into the controller. Preferred embodiments are 20 to 200 foot pounds (approximately 2.8 to 27.
A setting of 7 kgl1) is possible, but the exercise machine may be designed to allow setting to other values. The keychain 220 has an array of 16 switches, namely, a switch corresponding to each of 0 to 9, and a switch indicating four directions.
It is usually a key band that includes two reset switches.

The switch indicating the direction is "upward", "downward", "inward", corresponding to the possible movement directions depending on the direction of the brake.
It corresponds to "outside". The two reset switches are for resetting the total number of repetitions and total energy consumption data, respectively.

Keyboard 220 communicates with microprocessor 210 via data line 221, which for convenience is shown as a single lead in FIG. Depending on the design of the keyboard and the design of the microprocessor's input port device, it may contain a number of data leads.

Multiple mode indicator lights 23 to display the current mode
1 to 236 are set on the control panel.
These writes are actually controlled by microprocessor 210 via data output line 237, which includes a number of individual data reads. Display lights 231-236
may be provided with a suitable transistor driver as is generally known, or may consist of an ED.

In addition to the mode indicator lights 231-236, digital numeric displays 240.24.5, 250 are provided that display numeric data regarding torque, repetition rate, and energy consumption. These displays are liquid crystal displays, or L
ED displays, preferably 4 each
Display digit numbers. Display 240.245.2
50 are driven by display drivers 241, 246, and 251, each receiving data from data line 260. For convenience in circuit layout, one data line 260 is connected to all three display drivers, and a chip select line (not shown) is connected to the microprocessor to drive devices 241, 246, 25.
A series of output ports of the microprocessor may be used in such a manner that they are individually connected to one and address data to them. Drive device 241.246.251
contains latches for holding data received from the microprocessor.

The controller, in particular at least a portion thereof, including the keyboard, LED display, and display, is located in a control box mounted on or in close proximity to the exercise machine, the control panel of which is conveniently accessible to the user. Preferably, it is placed so that it can be seen.

Reference numeral 270 indicates a detection potentiometer associated with one of the brakes. This potentiometer is used to detect the angular position of the brake output shaft and provide that position input information to the control system. Potentiometer 270 is preferably integrally formed with one of the brakes 62 and disposed within its housing. Potentiometer 270 is supplied with power and ground, and its variable tap is connected to A/D converter 212 via lead 211. A/D converter 2
The twelve digital outputs are output to the input port of microprocessor 210 via data line 213.

The data output port of microprocessor 210 is connected to D/A converter 281 via data line 280. The analog output from converter 281 is connected via line 282 to offset, gain, and balance control network 283, which is connected to the input terminals of operational amplifiers 284 and 285.

The output terminals of these amplifiers are power transistors 286
and 287, the emitters of these transistors are grounded, and the collectors are connected to control the current flowing through the winding of brake 62. The output signal provided on data line 280 is thus converted to an analog signal, which is amplified and used to control the torque of brake 62. Circuitry 283 provides factory offset and gain adjustments to adapt the output torque of brake 62 to compensate for manufacturing tolerances in the torque-current characteristics, thereby causing the two brakes to produce identical torques to each other during their operation. It is provided as a means to carry out such operations.

A real-time clock input is provided to the microprocessor, and the clock input is 60H2.
It is designed to be guided by the line current. This is because this line current is fast enough for the purposes of this control system.

Line voltage is control lead 2 at line frequency of 60Hz.
The control lead 292 is connected to the input terminal of the microprocessor as a clock reference. As is generally known in the art, the microprocessor is provided with another high frequency clock (not shown) for its own operation.

Yet another output terminal of microprocessor 210 is connected via line 295 to a one-shot circuit 296 whose output terminal is connected via line 297 to a reset input terminal of microprocessor 210. This circuit is designed to function as a ``watchdog,'' as Bond describes it.

The general operation of the control system is as follows. When power is applied, the total number of repetitions and total energy consumption data are cleared and the torque for two 1/2 cycles of the brake is preset to a deficit setpoint of 207-bonds (>2,8 kam). The user then enters the appropriate number and appropriate direction symbol on the keyboard, i.e. up, down,
Enter the desired torque settings upward or inward and downward or outward by entering inward or outward.

During movement, the controller constantly detects the position of the brake by detecting the voltage of potentiometer 270 and outputs a command signal indicating a predetermined torque corresponding to the current direction of movement. By comparing the successively detected position measurements, the direction of movement of the brake and the start and end times of the 1/2 cycle are determined. This is preferable to using limit switches or the like to detect the position of the brake. This is because in the latter case the user must always move the brake along a given circular arc. However, depending on the user and the specific muscle group being exercised, the arc length used will vary, and the number of repetitions will vary slightly within the settings. For these reasons, only the position is detected and 1
Preferably, the user only has to determine his/her own number of repetitions at the beginning of the /2 cycle.

The position of the sensor is detected 60 times per second and by comparing the previous values of the sensor the microprocessor can determine the direction of movement or whether the brake movement has been stopped. When the user stops the motion of the brake and inputs the end of the 1/2 cycle motion, the stop of the output shaft of the brake is detected. In this case, if the stop operation continues for a predetermined extremely short period of time, e.g. 1/10 second or more, the controller will
) outputs the command signal with the minimum value. If movement is again detected and the movement exceeds a predetermined small amount, e.g. Set the selected appropriate torque. Setting the torque to a minimum value at the time a stop is detected is preferable to changing the torque only upon a change in direction. This is because if the user sets torques that have a large difference between the two 1/2 cycles, the user may start a return contraction movement because the torque is too high at the end of the exercise. This is because a situation may arise where it disappears.

If the controller is waiting for a change in direction before the torque is changed, this in practice prevents the user from initiating the (second half) cycle of return. If the torque is set to 1st shift with less torque when stopped,
By quickly returning to the preset value at the beginning of the return 1/2 cycle, the above-mentioned problem is avoided.

At the end of a cycle, the controller calculates the number of repetitions per minute based on the time of the cycle as measured by the real-time reference corresponding to the start and end times of the cycle.

The controller also calculates the difference between the starting position and the stopping position of the sensor for that 1/2 cycle (the relationship between the potentiometer voltage and the angle of the brake output shaft is known), and The energy (kcal) required for that 1/2 cycle is calculated by multiplying the torque set for that period and an appropriate conversion factor. Since the real time for the cycle is also measured, the time ratio of energy used (power) to time can also be calculated. This value is kcal/hr
Calculated and displayed in units of. At the same time, since the power is on, the total energy (kcal) used during the exercise period is updated.

Various types of displays are possible, but for convenience the preferred embodiment displays one quantity during the first half of the exercise cycle and the other quantity during the second half of the exercise cycle. display 24 for displaying the two relevant quantities;
0.245.250 is used. Especially display 2
40 displays the current torque corresponding to the current 1/2 cycle. Display 245 displays the number of repetitions per minute for the first 1/2 cycle of the exercise cycle and the total number of repetitions for the second 1/2 cycle and signals to LED 233 or 234 indicating the amount to be displayed. is supplied. Similarly, the display 250
/Energy consumption per hour for 2 cycles (
kcal) and the total energy consumption (kcal) for the second 1/2 cycle, and a signal is provided to the corresponding LED 235 or 236.

Although independent displays may be used to perform these functions, and a user-adjustable mode selection switch may be provided, the structure described above may require fewer displays to be used; This is considered preferable because sufficient information can be provided without requiring any action from the user.

If necessary, the user can reset the total repetition rate and total energy consumption by pressing the appropriate reset key.

Microprocessor 210 is shown in FIGS. 13A to 13C.
A flowchart for programming for is illustrated. When an initial power-on occurs or a reset occurs due to watchdog timer 296 timeout, control begins as indicated at 301 in FIG. 13A. Control then passes to block 302 for system initialization. In this block, the display is set back to 0, the total number of repetitions and total energy consumption are set back to 0, and the 207-tbond of torque (2
, to 8! 7m) is output to the brake. Control then passes to a decision block in the flowchart designated 303.

In this block, 601-12 from lead 392
Manpower is tested. If this input is low, control repeats block 303 and the microprocessor waits until a high input is received. If a high input is entered, control passes to block 304. At block 304, the real time is updated, which of course occurs every cycle of the 60 Hz input so that the real time is used for various calculations. Also, the time is determined for the current direction of movement of the brake, ie upward/downward or inward/outward.

Control then proceeds to block 305 where the current position of the brake is determined by potentiometer 270 at A.
/D converter 212. This brake position value is then used to detect the end of the 1/2 cycle, but first some other work is done. Determination block 310 and control blocks 311 and 3
12 is the watchdog timer shown in Fig. 12 to protect against malfunction;
That is, it is executed in conjunction with one-shot circuit 296. In theory, error conditions caused by electrical interference, for example, could generate erroneous data or instruction bits, but the watchdog feature protects the system from hanging up. Further, in the determination block 310, an incorrect torque value, that is, 20 footpons 1j
(2,8 kam) or less or 200 footbonds (,
. Discrimination block 3
Once the proper value is determined in block 10, control passes to block 3.
12, and in this block line 29 of FIG.
5, the strobe output is supplied to a watchdog timer, that is, a one-shot circuit 296. In normal operation, microprocessor 210 flows through the flowchart of FIGS. 13A-13C and returns to block 312 before the output of one-shot circuit 296 reaches the timeout value, so that the one-shot circuit continues It will not reset, fail, or time out. However, if control reaches block 311 as described above, or if an incorrect instruction is given due to interference or malfunction, the program will fail at that point and the watchdog timer will not be reset and will time out. This results in a reset and new initialization in blocks 301 and 302, respectively, described above.

In normal operation, after the strobe output to the watchdog timer at block 312, control proceeds to block 313, where the keyboard is scanned for key activations.

When a numeric key is actuated, the corresponding number is accumulated for use in setting the torque value for the corresponding 1/2 cycle. When the reset key for total number of repetitions or total energy consumption is pressed, the corresponding value is reset to O.

When the torque value changes or the total repetition rate or total energy consumption is reset, corresponding changes are made to the display in blocks 314 and 315. Then I
II Ill advances to block 316, where a timeout occurs and keyboard input from eight seconds ago is cleared even if no directional key is pressed.

In the determination block 317, 60 from the REIT 292
The Hz input is tested again for the lower condition. If the input is not low, control repeats block 317 and waits until the input is low.

The control wJ then proceeds to decision block 318 where a determination is made as to whether brake movement has occurred. This determination is made by reading the current brake position determined in block 305 and comparing it with the previous value. If brake movement has occurred, this indicates that the current cycle This means that movement is occurring and control passes to control block 321. If the determination at decision block 318 is no, this means that the brakes are stopped;
Control proceeds to decision block 319 where a determination is made as to whether the brakes have been stopped for more than a predetermined period of time (1/10 second in the preferred embodiment). If not, control returns to decision block 303 of FIG. 13A and the cycle described above is repeated to read the new position, etc.
If 1/10 second or more has passed without any movement returning to step 19, control block 320 changes the torque to 2.
A command signal is output to set the minimum value of 07-bond (February and August). Control then returns to decision block 303 and the microprocessor remains in the loop described above until brake motion occurs again and is detected at decision block 318. Control then passes to block 321.

If the direction has changed, the repetition rate, total number of repetitions, energy consumption rate, and total energy consumption are calculated and their values are updated.

Once the calculation is complete or there is no change in direction,
Control proceeds to block 322 where torque appropriate for the current direction of motion is output to the brake. Thus, if the user stops movement during one cycle and then continues movement in the direction of the station, the torque will first drop to the deficit value, but then return to the selected value in that direction.

When the user stops exercising and then begins the return 1/2 cycle, the torque is first set to the undervalue and quickly set to the value selected for the return cycle. block 3
After completing step 22, the rabbit goes to block 303 again,
The process described above continues.

Although the flowchart of FIGS. 13A-13C is one method of programming a controller to achieve the desired results, many modifications and substitutions are possible, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

The exercise machine 2 according to the present invention has unprecedented versatility. Using a single exercise machine 2, the user can properly and independently train most of the body's major muscle groups, in fact, in the past, a completely separate or very cumbersome machine would have been required. You can perform a number of exercises that have been All movements that can be achieved by the machine 2 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 14 to 22. For the purpose of clarity, only the brake 62 is shown in FIGS. 14 to 22, and the carriage 66 is not shown. Of course, each brake 62 in each movement is controlled by the controller 200.
It must have a resistance that is programmed and controlled in the manner described above in relation to its operation.

First, in FIG. 14, the exercise machine 2 has a backrest 24 that is folded flat so that the user can lie on his/her back in order to exercise the buttocks and back, which is effective for the gluteus maximus and [1] muscles. It is shown in the same state. The user holds the hand grip 41 according to personal preference while performing this exercise and the other exercises shown in the accompanying figures. Each brake 62 is arranged as shown in the figure, with its output shaft 64 being horizontal. Next, the attachment 120 is shown in FIGS.
1 to the brake output shaft 64 using any of the connection devices shown in FIG. The normal initial position of the attachment 120 for this exercise is as shown, with the user's right leg positioned substantially behind the knee, the leg o-ra 124 and the strap 126 placed on the upper portion of the user's leg. in a substantially elevated position fixed around. To perform the exercise, the user rotates the attachment 120 with his left leg to its horizontal position as generally shown by pushing downwardly on the attachment 120 with his left leg. When the user lifts the leg during the return movement, attachment 12
0 is returned to its original position by strap 126.

Both legs may be raised and lowered alternately during this movement, as shown in FIG. 14, or they may be raised and lowered simultaneously.

FIG. 15 shows the exercise machine 2 set to a leg extension exercise that is effective for the thighs, that is, the quadriceps muscles.

In this movement, the brakes 62 are positioned somewhat further down the side frame member 6, and the attachments 120 are connected to the holder 11 so that their initial position is such that the attachments substantially hang downwardly. be done. The user then sits on the support bench 20 in a partially upright position, ie, with the backrest 24 raised and the user's legs hanging downwardly over the seat 22, holding the hand grips 41. do. The user places his/her ankles behind the leg rollers 124 and straps 1
26 around the back of your leg.

The user then simultaneously lifts both legs to rotate attachment 120 from its initial position where it is substantially horizontal. Figure 15 shows both legs relatively close to this horizontal position.

FIG. 16 shows the exercise machine 2 set to a leg bending exercise that is effective for knee abscess. In this movement, attachment 120 is substantially horizontal in its initial position and extends away from seat 22 and beyond brake 62. The user lies face down on the support bench 20, that is, the backrest 24 is laid flat, and both legs of the user are placed on the rollers 12.
4.Lie down below the figure. Strap 12
6 is fixed around the front sides of both legs of the user. The user then arches his legs upwardly, thereby lifting the rollers from their first horizontal position to the second substantially vertical position shown in FIG.

The exercise shown in Figures 15 and 16 involves the user bending his or her legs through the knees about a substantially horizontal axis. The brake 62 is connected to their output shaft 6
4 is arranged on the side frame member 6 so as to be substantially aligned with the knee joint.

In contrast, there is a preferred set of exercises in which both legs are trained by scissor-like pivoting about a substantially vertical axis through the buttocks. These movements are known as leg abduction and adduction, and are illustrated in Figure 17 as they occur. In this case, the brakes 62 are on the lower part of the side frame member 6 but pivoted to their horizontal position so that their output shafts 64 extend substantially vertically and are located below the buttocks. has been done. Furthermore, another attachment 143 is connected to the output shaft of each brake. Attachment 143 has substantially the same structure as attachment 120 (i.e., sleeve and elongated bar), but unlike leg rollers 124 there are two upwardly directed rollers spaced apart from each other along the length of the bar of the attachment. A U-shaped leg frame 144 is used. Each leg of the user is fitted between opposing side pads of the cradle 144, as shown in FIG.

In FIG. 17, the exercise machine 2 is shown set up to perform leg abduction and adduction movements that are effective on both the inner thigh muscles and the outer buttock muscles. There is. This movement may be performed in two ways depending on the initial position of the attachment 143. One embodiment is for the user to start with both legs spread, as shown in FIG. The user releases the brake 62 by pressing the legs inward against the inner pad of each frame 144.
Move your legs closer together against the resistance. ° The legs are then opened, thereby returning the attachments 143 to their initial positions. The large resistance generated when the user brings the legs closer together as described above is particularly useful for exercising the inner thigh muscles. Other ways to perform such movements are essentially the opposite of those described above. In other words, the initial position of the attachments 143 is in close proximity to each other, and the primary resistance is provided by the user as he or she opens his or her legs to the position shown in FIG. 17. In such cases, this exercise is particularly effective for training the muscles of the outer buttocks, such as the gluteus maximus.

The above explanation completes the explanation of the lower body exercise that the exercise machine 2 is primarily intended to achieve. Accordingly, various upper body exercises that may be accomplished with the exercise machine 2 will now be described.

In the event of such upper body movement, each brake 62 is moved upwardly along the curvature of the side frame member 6 and placed in the appropriate position as shown in the accompanying drawings. Each brake 62 is moved individually and visually aligned with the other brake.

Each side frame member 6 is provided with scales or markings on the surface of each side frame member 6 to assist the user in locating each brake 62 at substantially the same height position along the side frame member 6. Good too.

In FIG. 1, attachment 119 is used to perform a number of arm and chest exercises.

Like the attachment 120, this attachment 119 also includes a sleeve 145 fixed to the output shaft 64 of the brake, and an arm 146 extending outward from the sleeve. At the end of the arm 146 is a U-shaped handle 147 having an upper grip 148 and a lower grip 149.
is provided. The handle 147 is attached to the arm 146 with one end inserted through one of several holes depending on the user's physique. Next, the use of attachment l-119 for the purpose of performing various exercises will be explained.

FIG. 18 shows an exercise machine 2 configured to perform a chest press type exercise effective for training the muscles of the chest and shoulders. The brake 62 is the side frame member 6
, and an attachment 119 is connected to each brake. The initial position of the attachment 119, ie, the movement starting position, is close to the body with the arms bent or erect.

The user then grasps the handle 147 provided on each attachment 119 and pushes the handle away from him/her to straighten his/her arm to the position shown in FIG. 18. Because attachment 119 pivots on output shaft 64, handle 147 does not move in a perfectly linear relationship with the body, but rather follows an arc generally indicated by arrow B. However, the size of the circular arc in this case is minimized by positioning the support bench 2o on the frame 4 at an appropriate longitudinal position relative to the position of the brake 62 so that the circular arc has a substantially linear motion trajectory. It will be done. Figure 18 shows the user performing the chest press exercise in a partially upright position.
The user may lie upright and reposition brake 62 and attachment 119 to perform the same type of exercise.

Figures 19 and 20 show an exercise machine 2 configured to perform a biceps flexing exercise and a biceps stretching exercise, respectively. The brake output shaft 64 is aligned with the elbow joint. In this movement, a flat pad, i.e. plate 1
50 is releasably connected to the support bench 20 or brake case 63 in any suitable manner so as to extend over the user's abdomen. Plate 150 assists the user in properly isolating the biceps and biceps muscles while performing these exercises. Basically, in the biceps bending exercise shown in FIG.
Grasp the upper grips 148 of 7 and curve your arms upward and close to your body to the final position. Once that portion of the exercise is complete, the user may then perform the bicep stretching exercise shown in FIG. 20. This movement involves releasing the upper grip 148 and rotating the hands 90° so that the edges of the hands abut the lower grip 149 of the attachment 119. The user then pivots his or her arms downward, moving them from a position where the arms are close to the user's body to a position where the arms are further away from the body as shown in Figure 19. Stretch your arms. Attachment 119 has a longitudinal pad or support surface connected to or proximate to lower grip 149 to further assist in supporting the edge of the user's hand during biceps stretch exercises. It's okay to do so.

In FIG. 21, the exercise machine 2 is shown set up to perform an arm swinging exercise that is particularly effective for training the latissimus dorsi muscle. In this movement, the user is supported in a partially upright position and the brake 62 is moved further upwardly along the side frame member 6 until its output shaft 64 is aligned with the gQ node of the shoulder. . The initial position of each attachment 119 is such that they extend substantially vertically upwardly. The user grasps one of the grips 148 and 149 of the handle 147 and then moves his/her arms to the first position shown in FIG. and downwardly to a second or final position extending along and adjacent the sides. This range of motion is indicated by arrow C in FIG.

Finally, FIG. 22 further shows the versatility of the exercise hR machine 2. The brakes 62 are pivoted into a horizontal position in which their axes are substantially vertical, and they are arranged in the upper part of the side frame member 6. Brake output shaft 6
A fourth attachment 152 is shown in the position described above, comprising a bar 153 connected to 4 via the aforementioned sleeve.

The lower end of the bar 153 includes a rearwardly facing arm cradle 154 having an inner pad and an outer pad so that the user's arm can be received between the two pads. The user's hands may grasp the bar 153 in close proximity to the arm cradle 154, or the bar 153 may be provided with a separate handle for the user's hands to grasp. In either case, the user can perform an arm-crossing exercise that is particularly effective in training many muscles of the chest, such as the major pectoral muscles and deltoid muscles. The initial position of attachment 152 is shown in FIG. This movement may be accomplished by drawing the arms together in a scissor-like manner that pivots the arms about a vertical axis passing through the shoulders. The arms are then returned to their initial position by pushing them apart, thus training the trapezius muscles of the back.

At first glance, it will be understood that the ammo machine 2 of the present invention is very versatile. The exercise machine of the present invention uses a resistance device that includes two brakes 62 that allow many different exercises to be performed that properly isolate and exercise specific muscle groups. Further, the device of the present invention performs the above-mentioned movement functions while the user is supported in a position that is believed to be optimal for performing the above-mentioned movements. In this regard, the support bench 2o may be moved longitudinally along the rail 10 to assist in positioning the user in a position compatible with various movements. Furthermore, the backrest 24, which may be tilted relative to the seat 22, allows the user to be supported in a substantially upright seating position for performing many movements, while still allowing the user to sit upright for performing other movements. Allows you to lie down. The amount that support bench 20 is slid back and forth on rail 10 and the amount that backrest 24 is tilted is determined by the exercise being performed and the user's personal preference. Therefore, the user is tilted at a greater angle when using the exercise machine 2, thereby obtaining more benefits.

It has already been explained that the side frame members 6 are inclined slightly outward from the lower end towards the upper end. This is important because the brake 62 is horizontal and
It will be understood in terms of leg abduction and adduction movements and arm crossing movements whose pivot lines are substantially vertical. In FIG. 17, the pivot line defined by the brake output shaft 64 is preferably positioned just below the hip joint, and in FIG. 22, the pivot line is aligned with the shoulder joint. It is preferable that However, many people's shoulders are more spaced apart than their hip joints. Thus, by using the outwardly sloping side frame members 6, the brake axis is automatically aligned with the axis of the body parts. because,
The brake is in the 22nd position than in the lower position of Fig. 17.
This is because the pivot lines are spaced apart from each other by a greater distance in the upper position shown in the figures. This ensures that the brake 62 is positioned and oriented in the proper direction relative to the body while performing these movements.

Furthermore, the generally arcuate curvature disclosed for the side frame members 6 and shown in FIG. 2 is of interest for the same reason.

For the two positions of the brakes shown in FIG. 2, their pivot lines extend vertically upward when the brakes 62 are in a horizontal position rather than vertically as shown in FIG. With this in mind, the abduction and adduction movements of the legs are performed with the user seated in a substantially upright position as shown in FIG. 17. Preferably, the pivot axis of the brake extends substantially vertically upward through the hip joint.

However, in the cross-arm motion shown in Figure 22, the axis of the brake must be oriented substantially parallel to the upper body along a plane extending through the shoulders and hips. , must not be inclined with respect to said plane. brake 6
2 are mounted on an arcuate side frame member 6, the arcuate curvature automatically tilts the axes of the substantially vertically oriented brakes, so that they are performing a cross-arm movement. when the user is supported in a partially upright position substantially parallel to the user's upper body. Thus, the term "substantially vertical" as used herein simply means that the axis of the brake extends more vertically than horizontally. Therefore, in Figure 22, the axis of the brake is not purely vertical (although it is parallel to the user's body and somewhat inclined to the vertical, it is still considered to be ``substantially vertical''). It's okay to say that.

Aerobic exercise using the exercise machine 2 The primary use of the exercise machine 2 is as an anerobic exercise device for increasing muscle capacity and bulk by the above-mentioned exercises or any combination or series of exercises thereof desirable to the user. It is a purpose. However, it is also possible to use the exercise machine 2 as an aerobic exercise device. This is because the movement of the attachment and brake output shafts does not generate substantial inertial forces. Thus, it is possible for the user to sit in the arm-crossing position shown in FIG. 22, for example, and set the force level of the brake 62 to a relatively low value in either direction of the exercise movement. .

In that case, the user can pivot his arms back and forth fairly rapidly and in a very large number of repetitions. It also allows the user to perform the exercises described above quickly enough to increase the number of exercises to the recommended range to obtain the benefits of aerobic exercise, and for a long enough time to derive the benefits of aerobic exercise. That state can be maintained. Furthermore, this is possible since there are no substantial inertial forces that have to be opposed when the direction of rotation of the attachment changes. This is different from weight stack equipment and other machineries of this type. This is because the inertial force generated by the weight stack moving in one direction prevents rapid free movement and the accompanying return movement. However, if a pure anearobic movement is desired, the user may adjust the force level of the brake 62 to the range required for such movement, i.e. to a relatively high force level, as described above in connection with the controller 200. It is only necessary to set a relatively small number of repetitions.

Although the present invention has been described above in detail with respect to a preferred embodiment of the exercise machine 2, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and various other embodiments may be made within the scope of the present invention. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that this is possible.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire transportation machine according to the present invention. Figure 2 is luck! 2 is a side view of the exercise machine shown in FIG. 1 with one side frame member partially broken away to better show the support bench for the user of the II machine; FIG. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 2, specifically illustrating the underside of the seat of the support bench and the manner in which the support bench is attached to the frame of the exercise machine. FIG. 4 is a side view of a portion of the support bench, particularly showing the hinged connection between the seat and back of the support bench. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 5--5 in FIG. A movable carriage that supports the brakes and a rack-and-binion mechanism that supports the weight of the brake and moves the carriage up and down the side frame members. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view substantially similar to FIG. 5 taken along a line corresponding to line 6--6 of FIG. 1 shows one locking device. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7--7 of FIG.
3 shows a second locking device for locking a movable carriage such as that shown in FIG. 2 onto the left side frame member; FIG. 8 is a side view showing a movable carriage slidably supporting the N-magnetic brake on the right side frame member; A part of is shown in cross section. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the movable carriage on the left side frame member along a line corresponding to line 9--9 of FIG. 8, particularly the pivoting of the brake and the locking device for locking the brake in position; FIG. and a first embodiment of one of the exercise attachments and a connecting device for fixing the attachment to the output shaft of the brake. FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the end of the output shaft of the brake, showing in particular a second embodiment of a connecting device for fixing the exercise attachment to the output shaft of the brake. ! Figure 11 shows Figure 10 (7) 1111-111. : It is a sectional view along. FIG. 12 is an electrical block diagram of a controller for an exercise machine according to the present invention. 13A to 13C are flowcharts showing the operation of the controller of FIG. 12. FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the exercise machine shown in FIG. 1;
In particular, the use of the exercise machine for exercising the buttocks and back is shown. FIG. 15 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the machine is used to perform leg extension exercises. FIG. 16 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the exercise machine is used for performing leg bending exercises. FIG. 17 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the exercise machine is used to perform abduction and adduction movements of the legs. FIG. 18 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the exercise machine is used to perform a chest press type exercise. FIG. 19 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the exercise machine is used to perform a biceps bending exercise. FIG. 20 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing how the machine is used to perform a biceps stretching exercise. FIG. 21 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, showing how the exercise machine is used for pulling down the arm. FIG. 22 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 14 showing the use of the exercise machine S for performing arm crossing movements. 2... Exercise machine, 4... Frame, 5... Base frame, 6... Side frame member, 7... Upper rail. 8... Transverse cross piece, 9... Rear rail, 10
...Rail, 11...Back part, 12...Front part,
13...Cross piece, 14...Clamp, 15.
... Bolt, 20... Support bench, 22... Seat, 24... Backrest. 26... Seat adjuster, 27... Cushion,
28...Base, 30...Support rod, 31...
Inner bracket, 32... Outer bracket, 33
...Bolt, 35...Horizontal wall, 36...Tap bolt, 38...Horizontal wall, 39...One end, 40...
Orad, 1... Hand grip, 42... Sleeve, 43... Cross bracket, 44... Lateral hole,
45... Hole, 46... Lock pin, 48... Inner seat bracket, 49... Outer seat bracket, 50... Bolt, 51, 52... Ear shaped part, 53
...Pivot pin, 54...Torsion spring, 55...Tab, 56...Washer. 57...Spring clip, 58...Cover, 5
9... Lever, 60... Slot, 62... Brake, 63... Case, 64... Output shaft, 66...
·carriage. 67... Upper clamp, 68... Lower clamp, 6
9... Bolt, 70... Flange, 71... Clamp, 72... Module, 74... Rack, 75
...gear teeth. 76...Cavity, 77...Pinion, 79...
·shaft. 80... Roll pin, 81... Rotary handle,
83...Block, 84...Handle, 85...
inner end. 86...Outer end portion, 87...Button button, 89.
...One end, 90...Bell crank lever, 91...
Pivot pin, 92...Fork, 93...Lock pin, 94...Sleeve, 95...Spring, 9
6...Plate. 97... Lock hole, 101... Flange, 102...
...Leg, 1o3...Boss, 104...Hinge pin, 105...Pin, 106...Boss, 107...
Lock pin, 108... Spring, 109... Washer, 110... Handle, 112... Support frame, 113... Hole. 114...Boss, 115...Bushing, 116.
...Recess, 117...Screw hole, 118...Bolt, 119.120...Attachment, 122...
Bar, 124...roller, 126...strap,
128...three 7.129.130..., hole,
131-0tsuk1:'n. 132... Ball, 134... Inclined surface, 136... Lock lug, 137... Spring, 138... Knob, 139... Cavity, 140... Snap ring, 141... Drive pin , 143... Attachment, 144... Leg mount, 145... Sleeve, 14
6...Arm, 147...Handle, 14th...
Upper grip, 149...Lower grip, 150...
・Plate, 152... Attachment, 153...
・Bar, 154...Arm mount. 200... control system (controller), 210...
... Microprocessor, 211 ... Lead, 212
...A/D converter, 213...data line,
220...keyboard, 221...data line,
231-236...Display light, 237...Data output line, 240.245.250...Display. 241.246.251...Display driving device. 260... Data line, 270... Potentiometer, 280... Data line, 281... D/A
Converter, 282... Line, 283... Circuit network, 284.285... Amplifier, 286.287...
Power transistor, 291... Switch transistor, 292... Control lead, 296... One shot circuit (watchdog timer), 297... Line. Patent applicant The Toro Company Representative
Person Patent Attorney Masa Akashi FIG, 13A FIG, 13B FIG, +9 FIG, 21 FIG, 22

Claims (10)

[Claims] (1) comprising a frame and two force resistance devices for exercising both sides of the body, each force resistance device being longitudinally movable over the frame to exercise upper body muscles and lower body muscles; an exercise machine in which each force resistance device is pivotable relative to the frame so as to exercise the muscles of the affected body parts as the body parts pivot in different planes. (2) comprising a frame and a resistance device carried on the frame for exercising both sides of the body, said resistance device including two working axes having means for connecting exercise attachments to the resistance device; , the working shafts are arranged such that mutually opposing parts of the user's body disposed between the working shafts can simultaneously contact attachments connected to the resistance device so as to exercise muscle groups on both sides of the body simultaneously. spaced laterally from each other at a sufficient distance, each axis of action being longitudinally movable on said frame to exercise upper body muscles and lower body muscles; An exercise machine configured to pivot relative to said frame so as to exercise the muscles of affected body parts as each part pivots in different planes. (3) a single exercise machine comprising means for carrying out the following exercises and supporting the user in the following positions during the exercise, wherein the exercises are: a) performed on the buttocks with the user lying on his back; at least one selected from the group comprising a back exercise, a leg extension exercise performed with the user in an at least partially upright seated position, and a leg bending exercise performed with the user in a prone position. b) leg abduction and adduction movements performed with the user in an at least partially upright seated position; and c) leg abduction and adduction movements performed with the user in an at least partially upright seated position. d) an arm-crossing motion performed with the user in an at least partially upright seated position. (4) An exercise machine that includes two electrically actuated braking devices that simultaneously provide resistance to corresponding muscle groups on both sides of the body. (5) An exercise machine that is movable on a frame and includes an electromagnetic brake for training various muscle groups. (6) a frame including two side frame members spaced sufficiently apart from each other to support a user therebetween in an at least partially upright position, and a body carried on each frame; resistance devices for exercising muscle groups on opposite sides of the leg, each resistance device including an axis against which rotation is opposed by a force, the axis being at least substantially vertically oriented, and wherein the side frame members Extending perpendicularly to the user of sufficient length so that the axis is located below the user's buttocks for abduction and adduction movements and above the user's shoulders for arm crossing movements. and the side frame members are laterally outwardly moved upwardly such that the axes during the arm-crossing motion are more spaced apart from each other than during the leg abduction and adduction motions. Exercise machine being tilted to. (7) A frame including two side frame members between which the user is placed, the side frame members extending vertically upward in an arcuate curve from the front to the rear with respect to the user. , an exercise machine including a resistance device movably carried on each side frame member for exercising various muscle groups. (8) a frame member, at least one electrically actuated brake for exercising various muscle groups, and a support for slidably and pivotally supporting said brake on said side frame member; a flange slidably carried on the side frame member and projecting away from the side frame member; a support frame attached to the brake; and a support frame attached to the flange. a hinge interconnecting the flange and the support frame for pivotal movement from a first position to a second position relative to the support frame. (9) An exercise machine having an electrically actuated resistance device for training various muscle groups and a control device for independently controlling the resistance provided by the resistance device during muscle extension and contraction movements. . (10) A method of training muscle groups in an anerobic and aerobic manner, with a non-inertial resistance device that can change the level of force, and for anerobic exercises performed with multiple repetitions, the level of force can be adjusted comparatively. set high,
A method involving setting relatively low levels of force for aerobic exercise performed at a high number of repetitions.