Exercise machine

Abstract

A Pilates core bed machine having a frame with a longitudinal central extruded spine member (2) extending between first (4a, 4b) and second (6a, 6b) support members, a carriage (8) supporting a platform (9) movable along the spine member, at least one retention spring housed within the spine member and attached to the carriage, the at least one retention spring being selectively attachable to the frame by a button (12), the carriage being provided with side portions encircling the spine member and engaging the underside of the spine member, the carriage further comprising a plurality of wheels receivable within tracks formed within the central spine member. A leg trainer (30) and foot bar (20) can be included in the machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an improved fitness device, and in particular, not limited to, a Pilates core bed machine. Background Technology

[0002] The Pilates core bed reformer machine, invented by Pilates founder Joseph Pilates, typically consists of a rectangular bed-like frame supporting a pair of parallel rails extending longitudinally. These rails support a sliding carriage that can roll back and forth on wheels within the frame. The carriage is attached to one end of the core bed by a set of replaceable springs, which can be removably attached between the carriage and one end of the frame to create variable resistance on the carriage that must be overcome by the user to allow the carriage to slide along the rails. Most core bed exercises involve pushing or pulling the carriage or keeping it stable during the workout, as the carriage is pulled by the springs, thus enabling a wide range of exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.

[0003] There are currently a wide variety of Pilates core bed machines on the market, variations of the aforementioned themes, and these types of machines are becoming increasingly popular for providing full-body workouts and conditioning. However, existing machines do have their limitations. The bed-like frame often makes the machine bulky, creating problems for storage and transportation, and the frame's presence also prevents users from making beneficial contact with the floor. Pilates core bed machines are difficult to clean, especially under the frame, and it's difficult to change the resistance provided by the spring assembly. Exposed retaining springs, and the need to hook and unhook them from the frame, can also lead to injuries. Considering the cost and size of the machine, there is a desire to be able to perform as many types of workouts as possible on the machine, thus eliminating the need for additional fitness equipment. There is also a desire to be able to monitor the user's performance while using the machine.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an improved fitness device that overcomes or at least alleviates the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, a fitness device is provided, comprising: a frame having a longitudinally extending central spine extending between a first support member and a second support member; a slide supporting a platform movable along the spine; at least one retaining spring or strap received within the spine and attached to the slide, the at least one retaining spring or strap being selectively attached to the frame, the slide having a side portion surrounding the spine and engaging a bottom surface of the spine, the slide and / or platform further comprising a plurality of wheels receivable in tracks formed on or within the central spine.

[0006] Preferably, the spinal member has an upper portion and an associated side portion, and the side portion of the carriage extends around the side portion of the spinal member and engages with the bottom surface of the spinal member, wherein the at least one retaining spring or belt and the plurality of wheels are located within the spinal member.

[0007] It should be understood that the retaining spring may include a coil spring or a retaining band (e.g., an elastic band) to provide the required resistance against carriage movement. Typically, multiple springs or bands are used to provide variable resistance.

[0008] More preferably, the spine component includes an extrusion, preferably an aluminum extrusion, said extrusion such that the cross-section of the spine component can be provided with a plurality of recesses for receiving portions of the carriage. Preferably, the profile of the extrusion is shaped to create a plurality of recesses required to receive portions of the carriage, associated wheels, and retaining springs / belts. The body of the extruded spine component may be provided with internal grids to impart strength and rigidity.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the extruded spine has a continuous top surface (preferably slightly curved) and two opposing convex sides terminating in opposing carriage wheel tracks.

[0010] Furthermore, the carriage may include an extruded portion for cooperating with an extruded part of the spindle component. Preferably, the extruded part of the carriage includes two support flanges having outer portions extending downward and inward from the support flanges, base portions extending substantially vertically inward from each outer portion, and inner portions extending upward from each base portion. The support flanges are used to support a platform fixed to the top of the carriage. Preferably, each inner portion is extruded to terminate in at least one retaining spring housing, which is, for example, in the form of a tube and preferably has an elliptical cross-section. The extruded portion of the carriage may also be provided with internal grids to provide strength. The carriage wheel is preferably attached to the inner surface of each inner portion of the extruded part.

[0011] In this way, the extruded carriage can be tightly fitted around the extruded spine, wherein the carriage wheels are received in opposing carriage wheel tracks and the at least one retaining spring housing is located within the extruded spine.

[0012] A retaining spring or band is housed within a tube and can be selectively secured to one end of a spinal member by means of a button that cooperates with a plunger, the plunger being able to extend through the spinal member (e.g., through a vertical channel provided through an extruded spinal member) to engage with the end of the retaining spring. However, the invention is not limited to vertically oriented buttons and plungers.

[0013] Preferably, the exercise equipment also includes foot pedals that extend around both the central spine and the platform / slide and are selectively movable along the length of the spine. The foot pedals travel on multiple wheels but can be locked at an angle between their overall plane and the axis of the spine and locked at a position along the length of the spine.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the spine member is further provided with recesses forming a track for receiving opposing pedal wheels; preferably, these recesses are located within the inner boundary of the spine member.

[0015] In one embodiment, the pedal is an n-shaped cylindrical rod, the dimensions of which are designed to fit around the spine and platform / carriage. Opposing, inwardly extending connecting rods may be provided at each end of the n-shaped cylindrical rod for reception within a support that rotatably engages with a pedal positioning mechanism. The pedal positioning mechanism includes a bracket with multiple wheels or travel bearings that can be received within pedal wheel tracks on the spine to allow the pedal to travel along the length of the spine. Preferably, the pedal can be locked at a desired position along the central spine via a locking device and / or its angle can be adjusted between a range of angles via an angular position latch.

[0016] Optionally, the bracket of the foot pedal positioning device may include substantially parallel plates, each plate having a longitudinal travel latch on its outer surface. The longitudinal travel latch engages with holes or recesses spaced longitudinally along at least a portion of the length of the spine to lock the foot pedal in a longitudinal position, wherein the recesses are provided on each support of the foot pedal, and rotation of the support affects the movement of the travel latch.

[0017] Optionally, a second latch may be provided to poorly communicate with a series of recesses, the second latch being spring-loaded to hold the pedal less securely relative to the longitudinal position.

[0018] Preferably, the inner surface of each plate has an angular position latch that engages with a series of recesses spaced apart circumferentially, the recesses preferably being located on an inner latching member attached to the inner surface of each plate and each end of the foot pedal.

[0019] More preferably, the foot pedal is connected to a latch at each corner position of the plate to simultaneously affect the movement of each latch. For example, the foot pedal may extend laterally through the spinal member to be operated from either side of the spinal member, the foot pedal having a connecting member that connects the foot pedal to each latch. In another alternative embodiment, a second latch may be provided to poorly communicate with the series of recesses, the second latch being spring-loaded to hold the foot pedal less firmly in the incremental angular position.

[0020] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the carriage may include at least one folding bracket attached to the underside of the platform, the folding bracket having a side portion surrounding and engaging the bottom surface of the spinal member, and the platform further including a plurality of wheels receivable within tracks formed on or within the central spinal member. Preferably, the plurality of casters are disposed on the underside of the platform for engagement with tracks in the spinal member. In this embodiment, the at least one retaining spring or strap may be accommodated within the folding bracket.

[0021] The fitness device according to the invention may include other components to increase its versatility. For example, the frame may include one or more support plates and / or removable shoulder supports.

[0022] Preferably, the exercise device includes at least one rope extending between the slide and one end of the exercise device and returning to the slide via a pulley mechanism, allowing the user to move the slide by pulling the at least one rope. More preferably, one end of the rope is wound on a spool located in a return unit attached to the slide, and the other end of the rope terminates at a handle or cuff, the rope passing over a first pulley located at one end of the exercise device.

[0023] In one embodiment of the invention, the fitness device includes a leg trainer attached to one end of a frame. Preferably, the leg trainer includes a crossbar pivotally connected to the frame via at least one pivot arm; more preferably, the pivot arm is spring-loaded. Preferably, the at least one rope can extend around the crossbar to apply resistance to it.

[0024] More preferably, the exercise device includes a second pulley spaced apart from the first pulley, around which the rope can be wound before extending around the crossbar. Preferably, each end of the crossbar is provided with a spool or reel for receiving a handle or sleeve of the rope.

[0025] Optionally, the first and second pulleys may be fitted with covers. When not in use, the rope may also be fully or partially retractable.

[0026] A second aspect of the invention provides a fitness device comprising: a frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; a slide supporting a platform movable along the at least one guide rail; at least one retaining spring or strap attached to the slide, the at least one retaining spring or strap being selectively attached to the frame; at least one rope extending from the slide / platform of the frame and terminating at a handle, the fitness device further comprising a crossbar pivotally connected to an end of the frame via at least one pivot arm, wherein the at least one rope is selectively positioned between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the rope extends rearward toward the slide about a first pulley such that the slide is moved by applying tension to the rope, and in the second position the rope extends about a second pulley spaced apart from the first pulley, and a handle of the rope receives a portion of the crossbar such that tension is applied to the crossbar by applying tension to the rope. In this way, when the crossbar is in the second position, the rope prevents the crossbar from moving substantially downward.

[0027] It should be understood that the two pulley systems are preferably located on each side of the end of the frame, and each pulley system includes a first pulley and a second pulley.

[0028] Therefore, the crossbar provides a rope-operated leg trainer. The crossbar may include a T-shaped member pivotally attached to the frame, or the crossbar may be attached to two arms, each pivotally attached to the frame. Preferably, at least one arm pivotally attached to the frame is spring-loaded.

[0029] Preferably, each end of the crossbar is provided with a spool or reel for receiving a handle or sleeve of rope.

[0030] According to a first or second aspect of the invention, the first and second support members disposed at each end of the fitness device preferably form two legs at each end of the frame, said two legs stabilizing the fitness device. Therefore, the support members should have a width greater than the width of the spinal member. Preferably, the support members have a width substantially the same as the width of the platform.

[0031] It should be understood that any aspect of the invention may include a button mechanism for operating the retaining springs located beneath the carriage. Preferably, the position of the sensing button / plunger is sensed (e.g., by using an electrical switch at the end of its stroke), thereby enabling monitoring of which springs are engaged. Furthermore, this mechanism may be controlled by an electric actuator (mechanical plunger or solenoid) rather than a mechanical button, thus also enabling monitoring of which springs are engaged. Suitable sensors (not shown), such as Hall effect sensors or time-of-flight lasers, may also be provided along the central spine to enable monitoring of the platform's position along the central spine.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the button and plunger mechanism for operating the retaining spring or band includes means to prevent operation of the mechanism when the slide moves away from the end of the spinal member (i.e., when the slide moves away from the button during exercise). Preferably, a spring-loaded locking pin is disposed in a transverse channel located at or towards the bottom of each button and plunger. Upward movement of the button and plunger disengages the retaining spring, creating space beneath the button and plunger where the locking pin can slide, thus preventing downward movement of the button and plunger when the locking pin is in that position. Preferably, the slide is provided with opposing transverse plungers that, when the slide returns to the end of the spinal member, can push the locking pin backward into the space beneath the button and plunger, thereby allowing the button and plunger to be pushed downward to re-engage with the retaining spring or band.

[0033] Preferably, the opposing transverse plungers are provided by eyelets at the ends of each spring or band, wherein the leading edge of the eyelet is movable to the locking pin, and the hole of the eyelet is located in the path of the button and the plunger to allow them to move downward to re-engage the spring or band.

[0034] A third aspect of the invention provides a fitness device comprising: a frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; a carriage supporting a platform movable along the at least one guide rail; and at least one retaining spring or band attached to the carriage, the at least one retaining spring or band being selectively attached to the frame by engaging with a button and plunger mechanism, wherein a spring-loaded locking pin is disposed in a channel transverse to the direction of movement of the button and plunger, whereby movement of the button and plunger disengages the retaining spring or band, allowing the locking pin to move into a space previously occupied by the plunger.

[0035] It should be understood that the direction of movement of the button and plunger can be vertical or horizontal, depending on the construction of the retaining spring or band. Preferably, the direction of movement is vertical, wherein a spring-loaded locking pin is disposed in a transverse channel (the transverse channel being located at the bottom of the vertical channel through which the plunger moves or toward the bottom of the vertical channel), so that when the button / plunger disengages from the retaining spring, the locking pin can slide into the vertical channel to prevent the button from moving downward.

[0036] Preferably, the fitness device includes multiple retaining springs / bands that are independently operated by individual button / plunger mechanisms, each with an associated spring-loaded locking pin.

[0037] More preferably, the carriage is provided with opposing lateral plungers for retracting the locking pin from a channel below the button / plunger when the carriage returns to the end of the guide rail. Optionally, the plunger engaging with the spring / band has a curved section for engaging a pawl in the wall of the plunger channel, thereby biasing the plunger toward an upward or downward position.

[0038] Position sensing along the platform's slide, resistance on the springs, and travel speed will enable the interface to provide detailed performance data, such as power and energy consumption.

[0039] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a fitness device is provided, the fitness device comprising: a frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; a carriage supporting a platform movable along the at least one guide rail; at least one retaining spring or strap selectively attached to the carriage; and a foot pedal extending around the carriage, the platform, and the at least one guide rail, wherein the foot pedal includes a foot pedal positioning mechanism comprising a bracket having two substantially parallel plates, each plate having a wheel or bearing for travel along the at least one guide rail, an outer surface of each plate having a longitudinal travel latch for locking the foot pedal in a longitudinal position relative to the at least one guide rail, and an inner surface of each plate having an angular position latch for locking the foot pedal at a desired angle, the desired angle being selectable among a series of angles relative to the at least one guide rail, and wherein at least one of the longitudinal travel latch or the angular position latch is movable by a foot pedal connected to the bracket.

[0040] Preferably, the longitudinal travel latch engages with holes or recesses spaced apart along at least a portion of the length of the at least one guide rail (e.g., an extruded spine).

[0041] Preferably, the foot pedal is connected to each plate of the bracket via a rotatable support, each support having a notch, whereby rotation of the foot pedal causes the notch to move to affect the movement of the travel latch.

[0042] The corner position latches preferably engage with a series of recesses spaced circumferentially on the inner surface of each plate, the recesses preferably being located on inner latching members attached to the inner surface of each plate and the end of each foot pedal. The foot pedals are preferably connected to each corner position latch of the plate to simultaneously influence the movement of each latch.

[0043] It should be understood that different aspects of the invention may be provided in different types of fitness equipment or, most preferably, in the same fitness equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0044] To better understand the invention and to more clearly show how it can be practiced, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, in which:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a side view of a Pilates core bed machine according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the Pilates core bed machine shown;

[0047] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the Pilates core bed machine;

[0048] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of the portion of the wraparound carriage, foot pedals, and extruded spine shown;

[0049] Figure 5A It shows Figure 4 The figure shows the extruded portion of the wraparound carriage and the extruded spine component, but the pedals and wheels are not shown in the figure.

[0050] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A perspective view of the extruded portion of the wraparound carriage shown;

[0051] Figure 6A This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a Pilates core bed machine according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing the platform, carriage, spinal element, and retaining spring;

[0052] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A Another sectional view of the Pilates core bed machine shows the mechanism for operating the foot pedals contained within the central spine component;

[0053] Figure 7A and 7B They are from Figure 6A and 6B The top-down perspective view and the bottom-up plan view of the spinal component of the Pilates core bed machine.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a Pilates core bed machine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 9A This is a perspective view of one end of a Pilates core bed machine with a folding carriage slide according to another embodiment of the present invention, and shows an integrated leg trainer shown as retracted according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A A perspective view of a Pilates core bed machine, showing an integrated leg trainer for stretching.

[0057] Figure 10A From Figure 9A and 9B A bottom-view perspective view of the platform and carriage components of the Pilates core bed machine;

[0058] Figure 10B From Figure 10A A top-down perspective view of the platform and carriage components;

[0059] Figure 10C From Figure 10A A plan view looking down from below the platform and carriage components;

[0060] Figure 11A and 11B An example of a carriage wheel assembly for use with the Pilates core bed machine of the present invention is shown;

[0061] Figures 12A to 12F It shows the method for attaching Figure 10A The platform and carriage assembly's spring-retaining housing and retaining springs;

[0062] Figure 13 This is a side view of a Pilates core bed machine according to another embodiment of the present invention, showing a retractable integrated leg trainer according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0063] Figures 14A to 14F Operation via pulley mechanism is shown Figure 13 The leg trainer shown;

[0064] Figure 15A and 15B These are perspective views of two embodiments of a foot pedal positioning mechanism according to another aspect of the present invention;

[0065] Figures 16A to 16D As shown Figure 15A and 15B The mechanism shown provides various selectable positions for the foot pedal; and

[0066] Figure 17A and 17B This is a cross-sectional view of the end of a Pilates core bed machine, showing a lockable button and release mechanism for selecting a retaining spring according to another aspect of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0067] The present invention provides a Pilates core bed machine that is smoother, more compact and lighter than prior art devices, and optionally includes additional exercise components to enable a full body workout.

[0068] The attached image Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of the Pilates core bed machine according to the present invention is shown.

[0069] Machine 1 includes a frame with a centrally supported spinal member 2 extending between a front support member 4 and a rear support member 6 located at the ends of the spinal member. Each support member includes an n-shaped component to provide two legs 4a, 4b, 6a, 6b that extend outward beyond the periphery of the spinal member to stabilize the machine. A slidable carriage 8 supporting a flat platform 9 is attached around the spinal member and is capable of traveling along the length of the spinal member; the flat platform 9 can be padded to increase comfort. Additionally, a series of retaining springs 10 (in...) Figure 1 and 2 (Not visible in the text, but described in more detail below) is located below the carriage within the spine and is releasably engaged with the end of the spine via a button and plunger mechanism located at the end of the spine. Each retaining spring can be engaged with a vertical plunger (in... Figure 1 and 2 (Not visible in the image) The button 12, which engages with the spinal member, disengages from the end of the spinal member. The machine also includes a foot pedal 20, which is attached to the underside of the spinal member and can selectively slide along its length, and is sized to surround the carriage 8 and platform 9. The foot pedal 20 is also connected to the spinal member via a foot pedal positioning mechanism 70, which allows the foot pedal to rotate between different angles and be fixed in a desired position (see below for details). Figures 15A to 16D (Further details). Each end of the frame is provided with support plates 15, 17, and the exercise rope 19 extends from the platform 9 around the pulley mechanism 40 provided at the end support plate 17 and returns to the platform 9, where the rope terminates at the handle or cuff 44.

[0070] From the attached diagram Figure 2 It is evident that the machine places most of the connections between its components within the central spine 2, along which the carriage and foot pedal can slide. This is achieved by having both the carriage 8 and the foot pedal 20 surround the central spine and attach them to the spine from below. Figures 3 to 4Figures 5A and 5B illustrate this attachment mechanism in more detail. The spine component includes an aluminum extrusion 200, the cross-section of which is configured with multiple recesses for receiving portions of the carriage and foot pedal positioning mechanism. The body of the extruded spine component is provided with an internal prismatic lattice 202 to impart strength and rigidity, wherein the outer contour is shaped to create multiple recesses required to accommodate the carriage, foot pedal positioning mechanism, associated wheel, and retaining spring. Figure 5A As shown more clearly, the extruder 200 has a slightly curved, continuous top surface 204 and two opposing convex sides 206, which terminate at opposing carriage wheel tracks 208. Furthermore, a central attachment 210 extends downward from the top surface and terminates in a large recess 212 having opposing foot lever mechanism wheel tracks 214. The spaces between each side 206 and the central attachment 210, and between each side and the large recess 212, form receptacles for receiving the extruded portion 800 forming the carriage 8.

[0071] The extrusion section 800 of carriage 8 is in Figure 5A The image shows the insertion of the extruded spinal member into the spinal member. Figure 5B The diagram shows the carriage without a spine. The extruded portion includes two opposing large support flanges 802 for supporting a flat rectangular platform 9 fixed to the top of the carriage. An outer portion 804 extends downward and inward from each flange, then extends vertically inward relative to the flange, and subsequently turns upward to form a base portion 806 and an inner portion 808, respectively. Each inner portion terminates in three adjacent tubes 810 with elliptical cross-sections, which form a spring-retaining housing. The extruded portion of the carriage also has an internal grid 812 for added strength.

[0072] Return to reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the fixation of the foot pedal mechanism 70 of the carriage 8 and foot pedal 20 to the extruded spinal member. The extruded portion 800 of the carriage 8 has wheels or rollers attached via shafts to the inner surfaces of each inner portion 808. The extruded portion surrounds and fits within the extruded spinal member such that each wheel is received within a carriage wheel track 208 and a tube 810 at the end of each inner portion is received in each receiving portion 218 of the extruded spinal member. A retaining spring 10 is received within the tube 810 and selectively secured to the end of the spinal member by a button 12 cooperating with a plunger capable of extending through a vertical channel into the interior of the tube, the vertical channel being configured to penetrate the extruded spinal member 2. (See below for further details.) Figure 17A and 17B Further details are provided regarding the mechanism for selectively securing the retaining spring. The platform 9 is fixed immovably to the flange of the carriage, and the carriage is able to slide along the spine via the movement of the wheel along the track 208.

[0073] It should be noted that while the illustrated embodiment demonstrates the use of retaining springs to provide variable resistance to the movement of the carriage and platform, it should be understood that other devices, such as elastic bands, can be used to provide adjustable resistance. The retaining springs or bands should be made of materials that provide the necessary resistance and have the required lifespan.

[0074] The foot pedal 20 is a generally n-shaped cylindrical rod, sized to fit around the spine and carriage / platform. Opposite inwardly extending connecting rods 20a and 20b extend from each end of the n-shaped cylindrical rod and attach to the bracket of the foot pedal positioning mechanism 70 to be received within the extruded spine below (regarding...). Figures 15A to 16D (Further details of the spinal component are provided). The bracket is provided with a plurality of wheels 26 or travel bearings, which are received within wheel tracks 214 of the extruded spinal component to allow the foot pedal to travel along the length of the spinal component. The foot pedal can be locked at a desired position along the central spinal component by operation of the pedal (the pedal is not shown in this embodiment but is referenced). Figure 6B and 15A (The embodiments shown up to 16D are discussed in further detail), and can be implemented as follows: Figures 16A to 16D Adjust the angle of the pedal between the series of angles shown.

[0075] By housing the carriage section, carriage wheels, and foot pedal positioning mechanism wheels within the extruded spine, a substantially enclosed housing is provided for all movable parts, which increases the machine's safety for the user and significantly improves the machine's overall appearance.

[0076] Figures 6A to 7B Another embodiment of the invention is shown. A central spine member 102 is provided that engages with a carriage 108 of a support platform 109, wherein a retaining spring 110 and a foot pedal positioning mechanism 170 are disposed within the spine member. The longitudinal spine member 102 is provided with a central longitudinal slot 112, which may be formed within a single-piece spine member, or, as in the illustrated embodiment, may be disposed between two side rails 114, which are tightly secured to each other by end plates disposed at each end, as shown. Figure 7A As shown. The spinal component also has convex sidewalls, which have internal recesses 118 forming wheel tracks for receiving wheels 26 attached to brackets 24 of the foot pedal positioning mechanism 70, and each sidewall 114 has a plurality of spaced recesses 120 on its underside for receiving foot pedal positioning mechanisms (see reference 70). Figure 15A and 15B(A more detailed description of the features of the foot pedal positioning mechanism) includes a longitudinal travel latch (not shown). In this embodiment, the carriage comprises four separate sections, one section attached to each corner of the platform, wherein each section has a wheel assembly on its underside, the wheel assembly having at least one upper wheel 122 and at least one lower wheel 124 traveling along upper and lower guide rails, the upper and lower guide rails being provided by shoulders 126 located at each upper corner of the spine member. Furthermore, a central extrusion or folding bracket 130, essentially composed of longitudinal I-beams, is received within a slot 112 to secure the platform to a spring-supported bracket. The central cover extrusion 132 traverses the entire length of the spine member 102 and means that the user cannot look down through the slot 112. The central extrusion 130 or folding bracket surrounds the cover extrusion. This embodiment does not require a carriage extending around the sides of the spine member.

[0077] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the Pilates core bed machine according to the invention is shown, which also has a carriage 1008 attached to a platform 1009, the carriage surrounding a central continuous spinal member 1002, the central continuous spinal member surrounding a plurality of moving portions of the machine's moving parts. A foot pedal 1020 is also attached to the underside of the spinal member and is selectively slidable along the length of the spinal member, and is sized to surround the carriage 1008 and the platform 1009. The extruded portion of the spinal member also has a continuous upper surface and convex sidewalls and includes a central member extending downward from the upper surface, the lower end of the central member terminating in two opposing transverse members extending laterally from the central member, each transverse member forming a wheel receiving track for receiving a wheel 1026 of a foot pedal positioning mechanism 1070. The spinal member is constructed to provide two opposing upper recesses for receiving a retaining spring or elastic band 1010 and a lower recess for receiving the foot pedal positioning mechanism 1070. The folded sheet 1008 forms a carriage, the ends of which surround the convex sidewalls of the spinal member and terminate in an upper recess of the spinal member. Wheels 1122, 1124 are disposed within the carriage and slide along tracks on the upper corner of the spinal member provided by the shoulder 1126. Button 1012 is provided for selectively engaging a retaining spring, as described in further detail elsewhere herein.

[0078] Figures 9A to 12FAnother embodiment of the invention is shown. A single central spine extrusion 2 is also provided to receive a slidable carriage 8 supporting a platform 9. The carriage subassembly 850 includes a folding bracket having sides that surround the spine and are held within a recess in the extrusion. A retaining spring housing 400 is also attached to the underside of the platform and also includes a foot pedal 20 extending around the spine, carriage, and platform. The platform is also provided with a removable shoulder rest 602 extending upward from the platform, and according to another aspect of the invention, a leg trainer 30 is provided at one end of the machine. A control screen 600 is also provided at the other end.

[0079] Figures 10A to 11B A carriage 8 is shown, comprising a platform 9, a retaining spring housing 400, wheel assemblies 208, and a pulley system for an exercise rope 19. The carriage 8 is axially movable along the spinal extruder 200 via the carriage wheel assemblies 208. In this embodiment, four carriage wheel assemblies 208 are provided on the underside of the carriage, each carriage wheel assembly having four wheels mounted on a common bracket 208a (see [link to original document]). Figure 11A and 11B Each carriage wheel assembly has two inner carriage wheels 208b and two outer carriage wheels 208c inclined at an angle relative to the inner carriage wheels 208b. The vertical inner wheels 208b travel along a horizontal track or guide provided on the spine extruder, and the outer wheels 208c travel along an inclined lower track or guide on the spine extruder to provide resistance to lateral and upward movement. However, it should be understood that alternative numbers and arrangements of wheels can be provided, although it is preferred to provide at least one wheel traveling along the top of the spine and at least one wheel traveling along the side of the spine.

[0080] A pair of retaining spring housings 400 are also provided on the underside of the platform (see...) Figures 12A to 12F Each retaining spring housing houses three helical retaining springs 10 and is housed within the spine extruder. The lower side of the spring housing is attached to the carriage 850 (1008). One end of the spring 10 is attached to the carriage, while the other end can be selectively anchored to the end of the machine or held under slight tension below the platform 9. This end of the spring is provided with an eyelet 402, which is selectively secured to the frame by a button 12 and a plunger 14 device, for example... Figure 17A and 17B As shown and discussed in further detail below, the manual engagement of button 12 is actuated by plunger 14, which then inserts into an eyelet attached to the end of a spring. The eyelet is in a controlled position and moves with the platform or is anchored by the plunger. When the eyelet is not engaged, a spring-loaded barrier 302 pops out beneath the retracted plunger 14 to prevent inappropriate button presses (see below). Figure 17A and 1(B discussed in more detail). This allows the resistance applied to the moving platform to be changed by manually pressing button 12 to switch the spring combinations. However, it should be understood that this can be controlled by an electric actuator (electric plunger or solenoid) rather than a mechanical button. This would have the added benefit of enabling the monitoring of which springs are engaged. Appropriate sensors (not shown), such as Hall effect sensors or time-of-flight lasers, can also be placed along the central spine to enable monitoring of the platform's position along the central spine.

[0081] Similar to the earlier embodiments, the rope 19 extends from and returns to the carriage 8 around a pulley mechanism 40 located at the end support plate 17, where it terminates at a handle 44. This pulley mechanism can also be used to operate a leg trainer 30 located at one end of the machine, the leg trainer including a horizontal bar vertically attached to two arms 104 configurable around a spring-loaded pivot point 106 attached to a rear support member 6 (see [link to previous embodiment]). Figure 9B Rotation. Below about... Figures 13 to 14F Further details of this aspect of the invention are provided (in this embodiment, only one arm 104 is provided).

[0082] Rope 19 extends from a spool in the retraction unit 500 attached to the lower side of platform 9 (see details). Figure 10A and 10C In this embodiment, the rope then passes through jaws 502 connected to an actuation mechanism 504 and a lever 506, which allow the jaws to open as needed, allowing the rope to be independently adjusted to a desired length or fully or partially retracted. A lever 506 may also be provided on the other side.

[0083] Figures 13 to 14F A leg trainer 30 according to one aspect of the invention is shown in more detail. Figure 13 This is a side view of the Pilates core bed machine, showing the exercise rope 19 extending from the platform 9 around the pulley mechanism 40 located on each side of the machine and returning to the platform, allowing the user to grasp the rope using the handle 44 and pull the platform in a conventional position along the central spine in a sitting, lying, or standing posture. Figure 14A An enlarged view of the pulley mechanism in this position is shown. The slot 46 between pulley 40 and the second pulley mechanism 42 allows for the insertion and removal of ropes. When the rope is in... Figure 13 At the position shown, the additional rollers can guide the rope.

[0084] If the user wishes to operate the leg trainer, the rope 19 is wound around the second pulley 42, and the corresponding handle 44 is attached to the spool 48 located at the end of the leg trainer (see [link]). Figures 14B to 14FThe slot 46 between the pulleys is open at the top, allowing the rope to be easily repositioned for attachment to the leg trainer. The foot pedal can then be pulled upwards using the rope. The rotating arm 104 of the leg trainer is also spring-loaded to provide further load and hold the leg trainer in the upward (retracted) position when not in use. Once the user has performed the required number of lifts using the leg trainer, the handle can be disengaged from the end of the bar, and the rope can be moved back to its normal position from around the second pulley.

[0085] A pulley system is shown, in which pulleys 40, 42 and slot 46 are accessible to the user, allowing the user to manually move the slot and the rope between each pulley. However, the system can be provided as a single unit, or with caps / covers on both pulleys to enhance the machine's appearance and / or prevent the user from getting items stuck in the slot. The handle 44 can also be sized around a spool mounted on the trainer to allow it to grip the spool. Alternatively, the handle can be provided in two parts, such as a first handle with a larger diameter and a second handle with a smaller diameter, preferably disposed within the first handle. These handles can be color-coded. For example, a small handle for placement on a spool 48 could be provided with the same color as the spool to indicate to the user where the handle should be placed.

[0086] Figure 15A and 15B Two embodiments of a foot pedal positioning mechanism 70 according to one aspect of the invention are shown. The mechanism includes a bracket 24 consisting of two substantially parallel plates 24a, 24b connected via a foot pedal 86. The bracket has wheels 26 attached to the outer upper corners of each plate. The bracket allows the foot pedal 20 to be attached to a central spine member (for simplicity...). Figure 15A and 15B Not shown in the image, but... Figure 6B and 8 (As shown in the diagram), this allows the foot pedal to travel along the spine and enables it to be locked in the desired longitudinal position and at a desired angle relative to the horizontal spine (e.g., Figures 16A to 16D (As shown) Locking. It should be understood that this mechanism may be provided in any embodiment of the Pilates core bed machine described herein and is not limited to one embodiment. In this regard, the size of the plate and the width of the brackets and foot pedals can be adjusted to suit any particular machine.

[0087] The foot pedal positioning mechanism 70 has: a plurality of internal components disposed on the opposing inner sides of the bracket plates 24a, 24b, which interact to allow the foot pedal to rotate between a plurality of preset angles; and a plurality of external components disposed on the opposing outer sides of the bracket plates, the plurality of external components allowing longitudinal movement of the foot pedal. Typically, the internal and external components on one side plate are mirror images of corresponding components on the other side plate. The travel bearing or wheel 26 is received in a track with guide blocks 72 disposed in the extruded spine (e.g., Figure 5A and 6A In (118, 214), positioning and free travel are provided within the extruded guide rails. Each end 20a and 20b of the foot pedal 20 is attached to an opposing outer plate via an annular support 28 having a recess 29 that can engage with a portion of a longitudinal travel lever 78 disposed on the outer side of each plate of the bracket, the lever having a travel latch 76 extending upward therefrom. The foot pedal can be locked in a longitudinal position by the travel latch 76 engaging with a hole or recess disposed in the spine member (see, for example...). Figure 7B (120 in the middle). A second latch 79 may optionally be provided (see 120 in the middle). Figure 15B To avoid poor communication with the hole or groove, the second latch is spring-loaded by a spring plate to hold the pedal less securely between incremental longitudinal positions.

[0088] The foot lever 20 can be locked at a specific angle by an angular position latch 84. The angle of the foot lever is selected by a foot pedal 86 connected to the angular position latch 84, which is located on opposite inner sides of the bracket 24. Movement of the foot pedal 86 allows the latch 84 to move between angular pawls 88 on latch members 89 located on the two inner sides of the bracket and attached to the ends of the foot levers 20a and 20b, such that when free (when the latch 84 is disengaged), the angular pawls rotate with the latch. A second latch 85 may optionally be provided (see...). Figure 15B The second latch, spring-loaded by a leaf spring 82, is in poor communication with the pawl 88 of the latching member to hold the pedal lever somewhat loosely in the incremental angular position. When the angular position latch disengages, this prevents the pedal lever from falling and gives the user some sense of position. When the pedal lever 20 rotates beyond the vertical direction in the direction opposite to the locking angle, the longitudinal travel lever 78 rotates, causing its latch 76 to disengage from a hole or recess in the spine member (see, for example, see...). Figure 7B (120 in the middle). This rotation is affected by manually rotating the foot pedal 20. Note that the foot lever can only rotate when the angular position latch 84 is disengaged by pressing the foot pedal 86.

[0089] The ability to rotate the foot lever using foot pedals acting on both sides provides a more convenient way to change the angle of the foot lever relative to the longitudinal axis of the machine. Preferably, the foot pedals are spring-loaded.

[0090] In addition, the Pilates core bed machine may include a mechanism to prevent the button from being pressed when the carriage "retracts," that is, a button / plunger mechanism to prevent the button from being pressed when the spring or belt 10 disengages during exercise and the carriage has moved away from the end of the machine. Figure 17A and 17B This illustrates a mechanism according to another aspect of the invention, which can be used in any Pilates core bed machine. Moreover, for simplicity, the same features discussed with reference to previous embodiments are given the same reference numerals. A spring-loaded locking pin 302 is disposed in a transverse channel at the end of the frame or spinal member, the transverse channel being located at the bottom of each vertical channel of the receiving plunger 14 or toward the bottom of each vertical channel of the receiving plunger 14. The retaining spring is disengaged by upward movement of the button and the plunger (see...). Figure 17B A space is formed below the vertical plunger into which the locking pin 302 can slide, thus preventing the button from moving downward when the locking pin is in this position. Each retaining spring or the end of the band 10 is provided with an opposing lateral plunger 304, which, when the carriage returns to the end of the spine, pushes the locking pin backward out of the space below the button / plunger 12, 14, allowing the button and plunger to be pushed downward to re-engage with the retaining spring. In the preferred embodiment shown, each spring end is provided with an eyelet forming the lateral plunger 304, the leading edge of which pushes the locking pin out of the channel, allowing the vertical plunger to descend through the hole 304a of the eyelet. A microswitch 306 is also provided at the bottom of each channel to monitor which retaining springs are engaged and which are disengaged.

[0091] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment includes a device that causes the button / plunger 12, 14 to be in a downward or upward position, in which the spring / band remains engaged and in which the spring / band remains disengaged from the frame in the upward position. For this purpose, a pawl 605 is provided projecting from one or both sides of the vertical channel housing the vertical plunger. A curved profile 604 is provided in the middle region of the plunger between an upper region with straight edges and a lower region, the length of which corresponds to the range of upward / downward movement of the vertical plunger. In this way, upward movement of the button will cause the plunger to move to a position where the pawl is located at the lowermost part of the curved profile (see...). Figure 17B Moving the button downwards will cause the plunger to move to the position where the pawl 605 is at the uppermost part of the curved profile (see...). Figure 17A Therefore, the pawl operates effectively to bias the button / plunger to the up or down position.

[0092] The Pilates core bed machine described herein in its preferred embodiment has a single extruded spinal column with a carriage and foot pedals surrounding and located below the spinal column to be received within a recess within the spinal column. The carriage and foot pedals have travel wheels or bearings that travel along tracks formed in the extruded spinal column, wherein a retaining spring is received within a recess between the extruded spinal column and the platform. The machine also includes an auxiliary leg exercise station with a means of loading using ropes from the main spring. Furthermore, the positioning of the foot pedals can be changed by a single foot pedal positioning mechanism comprising a bracket with foot pedals, wherein the bracket is received within a recess within the spinal column. Button and plunger devices for selectively engaging the springs provide safer operation of the machine and offer the potential for electrical actuation and control from a central interface. Sensing the position of the carriage along the platform, the resistance on the springs, and the travel speed allows the interface to provide detailed performance data, such as power and energy consumption.

Claims

1. A fitness device, the fitness device comprising: A frame having a longitudinal central spine extending between a first support member and a second support member; A carriage that supports a platform movable along the spine; At least one retaining spring or belt is housed within the spinal member and attached to the carriage, the at least one retaining spring or belt being selectively attached to the frame, the carriage and / or platform further comprising a plurality of wheels capable of receiving within tracks formed on or within the central spinal member, wherein: The spinal member has an upper portion and an associated side portion, and the side portion of the carriage extends around the side portion of the spinal member and engages with the bottom surface of the spinal member. The at least one retaining spring and the plurality of wheels are located within the spinal member. The spinal member includes an extrusion whose profile is shaped to create a plurality of recesses required to accommodate the portion of the carriage, the associated wheels, and the retaining spring or belt. and The extruded spinal member has a slightly curved top surface and two opposing outwardly projecting convex sides that terminate in inwardly facing opposing carriage wheel tracks, and the carriage includes an extruded portion for engaging with the extruded part of the spinal member.

2. The fitness equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The extruded portion of the carriage includes two support flanges having outer portions extending downward and inward from the support flanges, base portions extending substantially vertically inward from each outer portion, and inner portions extending upward from each base portion. The inner portions have an inner surface, and the inner surface of the inner portions is provided with at least one carriage wheel.

3. The fitness device according to claim 2, wherein, Each inner portion is extruded to terminate in a housing of at least one retaining spring or band for receiving the retaining spring or band, which is selectively secured to the end of the spinal member by a button cooperating with a plunger, the plunger extending into the interior of the housing through a vertical opening provided through the extruded spinal member.

4. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein, The carriage includes at least one folding bracket that can be attached to the lower side of the platform, the folding bracket providing a side portion that surrounds the side portion of the spinal member and engages with the bottom surface of the spinal member.

5. The fitness device according to claim 4, wherein, Multiple casters are located on the underside of the platform for engagement with the tracks in the spindle component.

6. The fitness device according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one retaining spring or strap is housed within the folding bracket.

7. The fitness device of claim 1, further comprising a foot pedal extending around both the central spine and the slide and movable selectively along the length of the spine via the plurality of wheels.

8. The fitness device according to claim 7, wherein, The spine member has a recess forming a pedal wheel track for receiving opposing pedal wheels.

9. The fitness device according to claim 8, wherein, The foot pedal is an n-shaped rod, the dimensions of which are designed to fit around the spine and the carriage. Each end of the n-shaped rod has an inwardly extending connecting rod for receiving within a support. The support is rotatably engaged with a foot pedal positioning mechanism, which includes a bracket having a plurality of wheels for receiving within the foot pedal wheel track of the spine, so that the foot pedal can travel along the length of the spine.

10. The fitness device according to claim 9, wherein, The foot pedal positioning mechanism has a locking device to hold the foot pedal in a desired position along the length of the spinal member.

11. The fitness device according to claim 10, wherein, The bracket of the foot pedal positioning mechanism includes substantially parallel plates, each plate having a longitudinal travel latch on its outer surface. The longitudinal travel latch engages with holes or recesses spaced apart along at least a portion of the length of the spine to lock the foot pedal in a longitudinal position, wherein a notch is provided on each support of the foot pedal, and rotation of the notch affects the movement of the longitudinal travel latch.

12. The fitness device according to claim 11, wherein, A second latch is spring-loaded to hold the foot pedal in the longitudinal position less securely.

13. The fitness device according to claim 9, wherein, The foot pedal positioning mechanism has a locking device to hold the foot pedal at a desired angle, which can be selected among a series of angles relative to the spinal member.

14. The fitness device according to claim 13, wherein, The bracket of the foot pedal positioning mechanism includes substantially parallel plates, each plate having an angular position latch on its inner surface. The angular position latch engages with a series of recesses spaced apart circumferentially, the recesses being disposed on an inner latching member attached to the inner surface of each plate and at each end of the foot pedal.

15. The fitness device according to claim 14, wherein, The foot pedal is connected to each corner position latch of the plate to simultaneously affect the movement of each corner position latch.

16. The fitness device according to claim 14, wherein, A second latch is spring-loaded to hold the foot pedal less securely in the incremental angle position.

17. The fitness device according to claim 1, wherein, At least one rope extends between the slide and the end of the exercise machine and returns to the slide via a pulley mechanism, so that the user can move the slide by pulling the at least one rope.

18. The fitness device according to claim 17, wherein, One end of the at least one rope is wound around a spool located in the retraction unit attached to the slide, and the other end of the at least one rope terminates at a handle or sleeve, the at least one rope passing over a first pulley located at the end of the exercise machine.

19. The fitness device of claim 18, further comprising a leg trainer attached to one end of the frame, the leg trainer comprising a crossbar pivotally connected to the frame via at least one pivot arm.

20. The fitness device according to claim 19, wherein, The at least one rope can extend around the crossbar to apply resistance to the crossbar.

21. The fitness device according to claim 20, wherein, A second pulley is configured to be spaced apart from the first pulley, and the at least one rope can be wound around the second pulley before extending around the crossbar.

22. The fitness device according to claim 21, wherein, One end of the crossbar is provided with a handle or spool for receiving the at least one rope or cuff.

23. The fitness equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one retaining spring or band can be selectively attached to the frame via a button and plunger mechanism.

24. The fitness device according to claim 23, wherein, Each retaining spring or band is disposed within a housing fixed to the carriage or platform, and the opposite ends of the spring or band are provided with eyelets for selective attachment to the frame via the button and plunger mechanism.

25. The fitness device according to claim 23, wherein, A spring-loaded locking pin is positioned in a channel transverse to the direction of movement of the button and plunger, thereby allowing the locking pin to move into the space below the plunger by disengaging the retaining spring or band through the movement of the button and plunger.

26. The fitness device of claim 25, further comprising opposing transverse plungers attached to one end of the retaining spring or band for sliding the locking pin out of the space beneath the plungers.

27. The fitness device according to claim 26, wherein, The transverse plunger includes an eyelet attached to the end of the retaining spring or band, wherein the leading edge of the eyelet causes the locking pin to move out of the space below the plunger.

28. A fitness device, said fitness device comprising: A frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; A carriage that supports a platform capable of moving along the at least one guide rail; At least one retaining spring or strap is attached to the carriage, the at least one retaining spring or strap being selectively attached to the frame; The exercise device includes at least one rope extending from the slide of the frame and terminating at a handle. It also includes a crossbar pivotally connected to an end of the frame via at least one pivot arm. The at least one rope is selectively positioned between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the rope extends rearward toward the slide about a first pulley, such that tension is applied to the slide to move it. In the second position, the rope extends about a second pulley spaced apart from the first pulley, and the handle of the rope receives a portion of the crossbar, such that tension is applied to the crossbar by applying tension to the rope.

29. The fitness device according to claim 28, wherein, Two pulley systems are provided on each side of the end of the frame, each pulley system including a first pulley and a second pulley, so that in the second position, the rope can extend around the opposite end of the crossbar.

30. The fitness device according to claim 29, wherein, The crossbar includes a T-shaped member pivotally attached to the frame; or the crossbar is attached to two arms, each arm pivotally attached to the frame.

31. The fitness device according to claim 28, wherein, At least one of the arms, which is pivotally attached to the frame, is spring-loaded.

32. The fitness device according to claim 28, wherein, Each end of the crossbar is provided with a spool or reel for receiving the rope.

33. The fitness device according to claim 29, wherein, The first and second pulleys are equipped with covers.

34. A fitness device, the fitness device comprising: A frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; a carriage The carriage supports a platform that can move along the at least one longitudinal guide rail; At least one retaining spring or band is attached to the carriage, the at least one retaining spring or band being selectively attached to the frame via a button and plunger mechanism, wherein a movable locking pin is provided in a channel transverse to the direction of movement of the button and plunger, thereby allowing the locking pin to move into a space previously occupied by the plunger by disengaging the retaining spring or band through movement of the button and plunger, wherein an opposing transverse plunger is attached to an end of the carriage for sliding the locking pin out of the space below the plunger, and the at least one retaining spring has an eyelet at its end, the leading edge of the eyelet forming the opposing transverse plunger.

35. The fitness device according to claim 34, wherein, The locking pin is spring-loaded.

36. A fitness device, said fitness device comprising: A frame having at least one longitudinal guide rail extending between a first support member and a second support member; A carriage that supports a platform capable of moving along the at least one longitudinal guide rail; At least one retaining spring or band attached to the carriage; a foot pedal extending around the carriage, the platform, and the at least one longitudinal guide rail, wherein the foot pedal includes a foot pedal positioning mechanism comprising a bracket having two substantially parallel plates, each plate having a wheel or bearing for travel along the at least one longitudinal guide rail, the outer surface of each plate having a longitudinal travel latch for locking the foot pedal in a longitudinal position relative to the at least one longitudinal guide rail, and the inner surface of each plate having an angular position latch for locking the foot pedal at a desired angle, the desired angle being selectable among a series of angles relative to the at least one longitudinal guide rail, and wherein at least one of the longitudinal travel latch or the angular position latch is movable by a foot pedal connected to the bracket.

37. The fitness device according to claim 36, wherein, The longitudinal travel latch engages with a hole or recess spaced apart along at least a portion of the length of the at least one longitudinal guide rail.

38. The fitness device according to claim 36, wherein, The foot pedal is connected to each plate of the bracket via a rotatable support, each support having a notch, whereby rotation of the foot pedal moves the notch to affect the movement of the longitudinal travel latch.

39. The fitness device according to claim 36, wherein, Each corner position latch engages with a series of recesses spaced apart circumferentially, the recesses being located on the inner surface of each plate and on the inner latching member at the end of each foot pedal.

40. The fitness device according to claim 36, wherein, The foot pedal is connected to each corner position latch of the plate to simultaneously affect the movement of each corner position latch.

Images