Sports vest, adjustable weight system therefor, and method of using same

Abstract

A sports vest has a front vest panel, a back vest panel, and a first adjustable weight system. The adjustable weight system is coupled to one of the front vest panel or the back vest panel and has a plurality of weights including a first weight and a second weight. The first weight and the second weight are detachably coupled together. A method of using a sports vest includes providing the sports vest and performing at least one of detaching the second weight from the first weight or attaching a third weight to the second weight. An adjustable weight system for a sports vest has a plurality of weights including a first weight and a second weight, where the first weight and the second weight are detachably coupled together.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments described herein relate to sports vests, and more specifically to weighted sports vests. Background Technology

[0002] With advancements in fitness methods, users have become aware of the benefits of using weighted sports vests to improve performance, strengthen bones, lose weight, and enhance overall health. Many weighted sports vests are currently available on the market. Some of these vests feature large weights, typically several pounds in disc or plate form, which users can attach to their chest or back. These vests are generally designed for strength trainers, primarily men, and while effective in increasing strength, their functionality is quite limited.

[0003] Other weighted vests are adjustable. Adjustable weighted sports vests include numerous pockets to hold a large number of weights. These vests are quite cumbersome to use because they require the user to manage and store many weights, up to 120 (often only a few grams each), and then put these weights into up to 60 small pockets scattered throughout the vest. These vests effectively distribute the weight across the user's entire body, but if the user simply wants to add some resistance to their training, managing so many components is an unnecessary hassle.

[0004] Therefore, there is still a need for a sports vest with an adjustable weight system that is easy to use and / or offers other novel and innovative features. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An exemplary sports vest has a front vest panel, a back vest panel, and a first adjustable weight system. The adjustable weight system is coupled to one of the front or back vest panels and has multiple weights, including a first weight and a second weight. The first and second weights are detachably connected together.

[0006] Exemplary methods of using a sports vest include providing the sports vest described in the preceding paragraph and performing at least one of the following: detaching a second weight from a first weight or attaching a third weight to a second weight.

[0007] An exemplary adjustable weight system for a sports vest has multiple weights, including a first weight and a second weight, wherein the first weight and the second weight are detachably connected together.

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a series of concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed embodiments described below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to embodiments that address any or all the shortcomings described in the background art. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a front view of a sports vest according to some embodiments; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The rear view of the sports vest shown; Figure 3 It is applicable to and Figures 1 to 2 A perspective view of an adjustable weight system used with the vests shown; Figure 3a It is applicable to and Figure 3 A perspective view of the counterweights used together in the system shown; Figure 3b It is applicable to and Figure 3 A perspective view of the counterweights used together in the system shown; Figure 4 It is applicable to and Figure 3 A perspective view of the first and second counterweights used together in the system shown; Figure 5 It is applicable to and Figures 1 to 2 A perspective view of an adjustable weight system used with the vests shown; Figure 5a It is applicable to and Figure 5 A perspective view of the ridges used in conjunction with the system shown; Figure 5b It is applicable to and Figure 5 A perspective view of the counterweights used in the system; Figure 5c It is applicable to and Figure 5 A perspective view of the counterweights used in the system shown; and Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the method. Detailed Implementation

[0010] Before describing the details of the embodiments herein, it is advantageous to describe the overall goals and features of the embodiments. The inventors recognized a need for an easily adjustable sports vest, especially for users busy with work and life demands; these users do not have time to manage and store up to 60 small weights for a single sports vest. They simply want to engage in challenging workouts and want to gradually increase or decrease the weight based on their current fitness level. Therefore, the inventors created the disclosed embodiments that allow users to easily add or remove weights from the sports vest, thereby distributing the weight throughout the body without the need for numerous pockets. Some embodiments are designed to fit the weight snugly against the user's body, both for comfort and for health and safety.

[0011] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 This document describes a sports vest 100. The sports vest 100 has a front vest panel 102 associated with the front portion of the user (such as the user's chest) and a back vest panel 104 associated with the rear portion of the user (such as the user's back). Those skilled in the art will recognize that the front vest panel 102 and the back vest panel 104 may be integral or composed of multiple panels. The panels may be made of fabric.

[0012] The sports vest 100 may have a first adjustable weight system 106. The first adjustable weight system 106 may have multiple weights, including a first weight 108 and a second weight 110. The first weight 108 and the second weight 110 may be detachably connected together. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any suitable number of weights can be used; however, this document considers approximately ten weights 108, 110 for the first adjustable weight system.

[0013] Now for reference Figures 3 to 4 Embodiment 118 of the adjustable counterweight system 106 is described in more detail. In some embodiments, the first counterweight 108 and the second counterweight 110 may rotate relative to each other, or the second counterweight 110 may rotate relative to the first counterweight 108. This feature can be achieved, for example, by using guide rails and slider mechanisms 112, 114 to connect the first and second counterweights together. Providing counterweights 108, 110 that can rotate relative to each other allows the counterweights to bend around the user's body shape for a more comfortable and close fit.

[0014] like Figure 3aAs shown, in some embodiments, one or more of the counterweights 108 and 110 may be substantially rectangular in shape, with guide rails 112 formed on one or both sides to accommodate the slider 114. That is, in some embodiments, the slider 114 may be a separate component that connects the counterweights 108 and 110 together. Those skilled in the art will recognize how to make the slider a separate component using methods known in the art. In some embodiments, the slider 114 may be integrated with the counterweight 110, such as... Figure 3b As shown. That is to say, embodiments of the present invention relate to a counterweight system in which counterweights 108 and 110 are connected together, rather than directly connected to vest panels 102 and 104.

[0015] Continue to refer to Figure 4 The first counterweight 108 may have a slider 114 configured to slidably and rotatably engage with the guide rail 112 in the second counterweight 110. Alternatively, the second counterweight 110 may have a slider 114 configured to slidably and rotatably engage with the guide rail 112 in the first counterweight 108.

[0016] Figure 3b The illustration shows a counterweight 110 having two slider units. In some embodiments, slider units 113 may be provided. Slider units 113 may have sliders 114 at both ends. Slider 114 may be configured to engage guide rails 112 in both the first counterweight 108 and the second counterweight 110. Slider units 113 may be partially flexible. Slider units 113 may be at least partially made of plastic, silicone, or rubber material. Slider units 113 may be at least partially coated with silicone. Counterweights 108 and 110 may be made of metal. Counterweights 108 and 110 may be filled with sand.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first counterweight 108 has a coupling mechanism 116 that is shaped and configured to removably attach the first adjustable counterweight system 106 to one of the front vest panel 102 or the rear vest panel 104 of the vest 100. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the coupling mechanism 116 may be, but is not limited to, a hook and loop mechanism, a Velcro mechanism, a pawl mechanism, a guide and slider mechanism, an elastic cord system, or any other mechanism known in the art and suitable for attaching the adjustable counterweight system 106 to the vest panels 102, 104.

[0018] Now go to Figure 5 In some embodiments (such as) Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment 120), the first adjustable weight system 106 has a ridge 124 that is shaped and configured to connect the first weight 108 and the second weight 110 together. The ridge 124 can fix the position of the weights 108, 110 relative to the ridge 124 and to each other, which also prevents the weights 108, 110 from moving around relative to the user. The ridge 124 can be elastic, so that whenever the ridge 124 bends, for example when compressed and conforming to the shape of the user, the first weight 108 and the second weight 110 can rotate relative to each other. When the vest 100 is in use, the ridge 124 and the panels 122 can keep the weights 108, 110 in close contact with the user.

[0019] In some embodiments, the ridge 124 has a first coupling mechanism 116 (such as the mechanism 116 described with reference to counterweight system 118) and a second coupling mechanism 126 located at each end. The first coupling mechanism 116 and the second coupling mechanism 126 may be configured to removably attach the first adjustable counterweight system 106, 120 to the vest 100. The second coupling mechanism 126 may be shaped and configured to removably attach the first adjustable counterweight system 106 to one of the front vest panel 102 or the back vest panel 104 of the vest 100. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the second coupling mechanism 126 may be, but is not limited to, a Velcro mechanism, a ratchet mechanism, a guide rail and slider mechanism, an elastic cord system, or any other mechanism known to those skilled in the art. like Figure 5a As shown, the ridge 124 may be an elongated elastic material having multiple pockets or channels 125 to slidably accommodate multiple counterweights 108, 110. Those skilled in the art will recognize that although channels 125 are shown, pockets can be used to achieve the same function.

[0020] In some embodiments, and as Figure 5b As shown, the counterweights 108 and 110 can be substantially formed in the shape of a rectangle 110. In some embodiments, and as... Figure 5c As shown, the counterweights 108 and 110 can be formed into the shape of a round bar 115. Those skilled in the art will recognize that although a counterweight with a generally rectangular or circular cross-section is shown, other shapes, including but not limited to square, elliptical, triangular, and hexagonal cross-sections, are conceivable within the scope of the invention.

[0021] continue Figure 5b and Figure 5cAt least one of the first counterweight 108 and the second counterweight 110 may have a narrow region 119 positioned between two wider end regions 121, thereby preventing the counterweights 108 and 110 from unintentionally slipping out of the channel 125. The narrow region 119 may be a recessed region 119 and may be substantially centered on the counterweights 108 and 110. The narrow region 119 and the wider end regions 121 may engage with the channel 125 in a manner similar to a ratchet mechanism. That is, when the counterweights 108 and 110 are inserted into the channel 125, the wider end regions 121 passing through the channel 125 initially cause the channel 125 to expand, and then the channel retracts and rests against the narrow region 119. In some embodiments, at least one dimension of the wider end regions 121 may be wider or larger than the corresponding area of ​​the channel 125 of the ridge 124. The wider end regions 121 may be interference-fitted with the channel 125.

[0022] Although counterweights 108 and 110 are illustrated as having a narrow region 119, those skilled in the art will recognize that this is an optional feature. The cross-section of counterweights 108 and 110 may be substantially square, rectangular, or circular, and always has a consistent cross-section. Nevertheless, counterweights 108 and 110 may be shaped and configured to otherwise prevent accidental disengagement from the ridge 124. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of counterweights 108 and 110 may be shaped and configured to interference fit with channel 125.

[0023] In some embodiments, and briefly referred to Figure 1 The vest 100 may include a panel 122, shown in dashed lines. Panel 122 may be part of fabric or a pocket and is configured to hold the first adjustable weight system 106, 118, 120 against the user. That is, when worn, panel 122 may help rotate the weights 108, 110 relative to each other, thereby conforming the weights 108, 110 to the user's body shape and / or preventing uncomfortable bouncing or shifting during exercise.

[0024] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the sports vest 100 has a second or more adjustable weight systems. For example, the sports vest 100 may have up to four adjustable weight systems 106, 118, 120 to balance the user's body weight, or it may have more or fewer adjustable weight systems. The weights 108, 110 themselves may add approximately 8 ounces (226.8 grams), or between 6 ounces and 10 ounces (between 170 grams and 283.5 grams).

[0025] In some embodiments, a first adjustable weight system 106 is connected to one of the front vest panel 102 or the back vest panel 104, and a second adjustable weight system 106 is connected to the other of the front vest panel or the back vest panel.

[0026] Now go to Figure 6 This document describes a method 600 for using a sports vest 100. Method 600 includes providing 602 the sports vest 100 as described herein. In some embodiments, method 600 includes removing a second weight from a first weight 604. Removal 604 may include sliding the second weight relative to the first weight to remove the second weight, such as using, for example, a guide and slider system. In some embodiments, method 600 includes attaching a third weight 606 to the second weight, wherein attachment 606 includes sliding the third weight adjacent to the second weight, for example, such as using a guide and slider system.

[0027] Method 600 may include a counterweight sliding slider unit 113 relative to one of the counterweights.

[0028] Method 600 may include a sliding counterweight 124 relative to the ridge.

[0029] Method 600 may include positioning a first adjustable counterweight system between the cut piece 122 and the vest cut pieces 102, 104.

[0030] Method 600 may include attaching or removing the first adjustable counterweight system 118, 120 to or from the vest panels 102, 104 using a coupling mechanism 116.

[0031] Each of the various elements disclosed herein can be implemented in various ways. This disclosure should be understood to cover every such variation, whether it is a variation of any device embodiment, method or process embodiment, or even just a variation of any element in these embodiments. In particular, it should be understood that the wording of each element can be expressed using equivalent device or method terms—even if only the function or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even more general terms should be considered to be included in the description of each element or action. Such terms may be replaced where necessary to clarify the implied broad scope covered by the invention.

[0032] To cite just one example, it should be understood that all actions can be represented as either the means of performing the action or the element that causes the action. Similarly, each disclosed physical element should be understood to include a disclosure of the action facilitated by that physical element. Regarding this last point, a disclosure of an “attachment mechanism” should be understood to include a disclosure of the action of “attachment”—whether or not it is explicitly discussed—and conversely, if only the action of “attachment” is disclosed, then that disclosure should be understood to include a disclosure of the “attachment mechanism.” Such variations and alternative terms should be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

[0033] Furthermore, the claims should be interpreted as follows: a claim stating "at least one of A, B, or C" should apply to devices requiring only "A". The claim should also apply to devices requiring only "B". The claim should also apply to devices requiring only "C". The claim should also apply to devices requiring only "A+B". The claim should also apply to devices requiring "A+B+C", and so on.

[0034] Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and substitutions can be made to the invention, its use, and its configuration to achieve substantially the same effects as the embodiments described herein.

[0035] Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the disclosed exemplary forms. Many variations, modifications, and alternative structures fall within the scope and spirit of the invention as expressed in the claims.

Claims

1. A sports vest, the sports vest comprising: Front vest cut piece; Back vest cut piece; and A first adjustable weight system is connected to one of the front vest panel or the back vest panel. The first adjustable weight system has multiple weights, including a first weight and a second weight. The first counterweight and the second counterweight are detachably connected together.

2. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein: The second counterweight is rotatable relative to the first counterweight.

3. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein: The second counterweight is able to slide relative to the first counterweight.

4. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein: The first counterweight and the second counterweight are connected together by a guide rail and a slider mechanism.

5. The sports vest according to claim 4, wherein: The first counterweight includes a coupling mechanism shaped and configured to removably attach the first adjustable counterweight system to one of the front vest panel or the back vest panel.

6. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein the sports vest comprises: A ridge, which is shaped and configured to connect the first counterweight and the second counterweight.

7. The sports vest according to claim 6, wherein: The ridge is elastic, thereby allowing the first and second counterweights to rotate relative to each other.

8. The sports vest according to claim 6, wherein, At least one of the first and second counterweights includes a narrow region positioned between two wider end regions, thereby preventing the at least one of the first and second counterweights from unintentionally slipping off the ridge; or At least one of the first and second counterweights is interference-fitted with the channel, thereby preventing the at least one of the first and second counterweights from unintentionally slipping off the ridge.

9. The sports vest according to claim 6, wherein: The ridge includes a first connecting mechanism and a second connecting mechanism, which are shaped and configured to removably attach the first adjustable counterweight system to one of the front vest panel or the back vest panel.

10. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein the sports vest further comprises: A protective panel, which is shaped and positioned to hold the first adjustable counterweight system against one of the front vest panel or the back vest panel.

11. The sports vest according to claim 1, wherein the sports vest further comprises: Second adjustable counterweight system.

12. The sports vest according to claim 11, wherein: The second adjustable weight system is connected to the other of the front vest panel or the back vest panel.

13. A method of using a sports vest, the method comprising: Provide the sports vest as claimed in claim 1; And perform at least one of the following: remove the second weight from the first weight or attach the third weight to the second weight.

14. An adjustable weight system for a sports vest, the weight system comprising: Multiple counterweights, including a first counterweight and a second counterweight, wherein the first counterweight and the second counterweight are detachably connected together.

15. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 14, wherein: The second counterweight is rotatable relative to the first counterweight.

16. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 14, wherein: The second counterweight is able to slide relative to the first counterweight.

17. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 14, wherein: The first counterweight and the second counterweight are connected together by a guide rail and a slider mechanism.

18. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 17, wherein: The first counterweight includes a coupling mechanism that is shaped and configured to removably attach the adjustable counterweight system to the sports vest.

19. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 14, wherein the adjustable counterweight system further comprises: A ridge, which is shaped and configured to connect the first counterweight and the second counterweight together.

20. The adjustable counterweight system according to claim 19, wherein: The ridge is elastic, thereby allowing the first and second counterweights to rotate relative to each other.

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