Support device for a communication terminal intended to be fixed to the frame of a weight training machine.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a support device (10) for a communication terminal intended to be fixed by means of fastening means (11, 12) to a frame (21) of a weight training machine (20) at two fixing points (111, 121) defining a fixing axis (A). The device comprises a main body (13) having at least two support points configured to receive an edge (T1) of a communication terminal (T); and a first plate (14) having a bearing surface extending in a determined plane (P), called the plate plane, inclined with respect to the fixing axis (A) at an angle of inclination α and configured to receive a face of a communication terminal (T) in the plane of the plate (P). Figure for the abstract: [Fig. 1]

Description

Title of the invention: Device for supporting a communication terminal intended to be fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding machine. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to devices for supporting a communication terminal, for example a mobile telephone, intended to be fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a bodybuilding apparatus comprising such a device.

[0003] The present invention will find numerous applications for sports halls of the type, for example, weight rooms. Obviously, other applications could also be envisaged, such as for example, in private homes.

[0004] A bodybuilding device, also called a bodybuilding machine or fitness device (or in French a "fitness" device), is a piece of sports equipment offering numerous functions for training. In other words, it is a piece of sports equipment which allows you to perform one or more exercises involving one or more muscle groups.

[0005] This type of bodybuilding equipment is mainly found in gyms or sports clubs, but is also increasingly found in private homes. It comes in different types and under different names, including: the adductor and abductor machine, the Roman chair, the rowing machine, the weight bench, the wall bars and the vibrating platform. Technological background

[0006] In order to practice sports, many people use weight training equipment in gyms or at home. Using these weight training equipment requires knowing how to use them and is done by following standard exercise programs, also called "coaching", or training plans adapted to each user.

[0007] To follow these exercise programs, many digital applications are developed and present an interface via communication terminals of the smart phone type, more often called smartphones, or digital tablets.

[0008] The Applicant noted that few means of installing this communication terminal existed in sports halls; the latter are consequently placed directly on the floor or on high surfaces which do not allow stable support of the terminal and / or good orientation of its screen to make the information from the digital application visible to the user when the latter uses the bodybuilding apparatus.

[0009] The Applicant observes that some recent bodybuilding devices have supports for communication terminals; however, these are integrated into the bodybuilding device from its design and / or manufacture.

[0010] The stability of the communication terminal and the correct orientation of its screen in the user's field of vision therefore depend on the fixing means and the geometry of the support.

[0011] The Applicant therefore considers that the solutions of the prior art are not fully satisfactory for people using a bodybuilding device and wishing to use or store their communication terminals. Summary of the present invention

[0012] The present invention aims to improve the above situation.

[0013] An object of the present invention is to solve at least one of the problems of the technological background described above.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to improve the stability of the communication terminal and / or to improve the orientation of the screen of the communication terminal.

[0015] According to a first aspect, the subject of the present invention relates to a device for supporting a communication terminal intended to be fixed by means of fixing means on a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus according to two fixing points defining a fixing axis, the device comprising: - a main body having at least two support points configured to receive an edge of a communication terminal as support; and - a first plate having a support surface extending in a determined plane, called the plane of the plate, inclined relative to the fixing axis at an angle of inclination a and configured to receive a face of a communication terminal in the plane of the plate.

[0016] Fixing the device to a frame of a bodybuilding machine makes it possible to maintain a communication terminal at height, and in a stable manner.

[0017] It is therefore sufficient for the user, before carrying out his exercise, to position his terminal correctly on the device so that the screen of said terminal is oriented in the latter's field of vision to be able to view the instructions of his "coaching" type program while carrying out the exercise.

[0018] Advantageously, such a device makes it possible to orient the screen of the communication terminal at an angle configured to be adapted to the field of vision of a user.

[0019] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the main body of the device comprises a second plate.

[0020] Such a plate makes it possible to present a plurality of support points to adapt to different dimensions of the communication terminal.

[0021] According to another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the main body of the device comprises at least two rods, each rod defining a support point.

[0022] Said at least two rods make it possible to present a plurality of support points by leaving open spaces between these rods.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the device comprises a stop extending the main body along a distal end of the main body, opposite a proximal end of the main body, the stop being configured to prevent relative sliding of the communication terminal relative to the device.

[0024] Here, the proximal end of the main body extends in the plane of the plate.

[0025] The presence of the stop thus increases the stability of the communication terminal.

[0026] In another embodiment which can be combined with the previous embodiment, the angle a of the device has a value between 70 and 90°.

[0027] This tilt angle value makes it possible to orient the screen of the communication terminal in the user's field of vision when the frame is oriented along a substantially vertical plane.

[0028] Advantageously, the tilt angle a is adjustable using a spacer. This adjustment also makes it possible to improve the direction of the screen and thus scan a larger set of possible fields of vision.

[0029] Advantageously, the spacer is placed between at least one of the support points and the first plate. This location allows direct and intuitive adjustment of the tilt angle for the user.

[0030] Advantageously, the fixing means are configured to securely fix the device to the frame of a bodybuilding apparatus. The secure nature of the fixing makes it possible to avoid any subsequent manipulation of the support and thus to guarantee good stability and orientation of the communication terminal.

[0031] Advantageously, the fixing means are configured to removably fix the device to the frame of a bodybuilding apparatus. The removable nature of the fixing makes it possible to make the device portable and, in addition, to move the device to different bodybuilding apparatus.

[0032] Advantageously, the device comprises a receptacle capable of receiving at least partially a portion of the communication terminal. This receptacle also makes it possible to receive a communication terminal or very small accessories.

[0033] Advantageously, the receptacle of the device has an openwork structure which also makes it possible to cool the communication terminal.

[0034] Advantageously, the main body of the device is made of a non-slip material, i.e. one with a high coefficient of friction. This makes it possible to avoid any relative movement between the device and the communication terminal.

[0035] Advantageously, the main body of the device and the plate form a single-piece assembly. This configuration gives the device, for example, greater rigidity.

[0036] Advantageously, the main body of the device and / or the plate are made of a thermoplastic material, for example of the ABS or polycarbonate type.

[0037] Advantageously, the device comprises at least one display zone comprising a matrix code.

[0038] Correlatively, the subject of the present invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a bodybuilding apparatus comprising a support device according to the first aspect.

[0039] Through its various structural and functional aspects as described above, the present invention provides sports halls with a simple and practical tool which is adjustable and can be fixed to the bodybuilding equipment to allow users to position their communication terminals without risk of loss and / or theft and / or damage while being able to use them, if necessary, for example, to view a training plan. Brief description of the figures

[0040] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description of the particular and non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the appended figures 1 to 10, in which:

[0041] [Fig.l]

[0042] [Fig.l] represents a schematic side view of a mounting bracket of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the mounting bracket is fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus using adhesives.

[0043] [Fig.2]

[0044] [Fig. 2] represents a schematic side view of a fixing bracket of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the fixing bracket is fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus using screws.

[0045] [Fig.3]

[0046] [Fig. 3] represents a schematic side view of a mounting bracket of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the mounting bracket is fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus using clamps.

[0047] [Fig.4]

[0048] [Fig.4] represents a schematic top view of a mounting bracket for a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the main body comprises two elongate elements and a receptacle.

[0049] [Fig.5]

[0050] [Fig. 5] represents a schematic top view of a mounting bracket for a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the main body comprises a second plate.

[0051] [Fig.6]

[0052] [Fig. 6] represents a schematic front view of a fixing support of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the fixing support does not have a receptacle.

[0053] [Fig.7]

[0054] [Fig.7] represents a schematic side view of a mounting bracket of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the mounting bracket does not have a receptacle.

[0055] [Fig.8]

[0056] [Fig.8] represents a schematic front view of a mounting bracket for a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the communication terminal is placed on the main body of the device.

[0057] [Fig.9]

[0058] [Fig. 9] represents a schematic front view of a mounting bracket for a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the communication terminal is placed in the receptacle of the device.

[0059] [Fig. 10]

[0060] [Fig. 10] represents a schematic front view of a mounting bracket of a communication terminal according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in which the mounting bracket comprises display areas.

[0061] Description of the examples of embodiment

[0062] A device for supporting a communication terminal intended to be fixed to a frame of a bodybuilding apparatus will now be described in the following with joint reference to figures 1 to 10.

[0063] The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the description which follows.

[0064] As a reminder, in order to make the best use of a bodybuilding device, a multitude of software applications, subsequently called fitness applications, have been developed and is made available via a smartphone-type communication terminal. These all offer various features and difficulty levels. They allow the user to be supported in their sporting progress, and this is available at their fingertips on different communication terminals such as smart phones, also called smartphones or digital tablets.

[0065] It is therefore desirable for the user to be able to place his communication terminal near the bodybuilding machine that he is about to use and to be able to see the screen once installed on the bodybuilding machine in order to be able to follow the instructions displayed on this terminal.

[0066] As explained in the preamble, certain bodybuilding machines on the market have a fixed support to accommodate such a communication terminal. Very often, this support is an integral part of the machine, and is therefore not separable from it.

[0067] Conversely, most current bodybuilding machines do not have a support intended to accommodate a communication terminal. The user is therefore required to place his communication terminal on the ground or in an unstable manner on the frame of the machine itself, which presents risks such as the terminal being crushed or falling.

[0068] In addition, the terminal thus arranged may be poorly oriented, making it uncomfortable to read the information displayed on its screen.

[0069] One of the objectives of the present invention is therefore to design a device for supporting a communication terminal on a bodybuilding apparatus frame allowing the communication terminal to be placed at a height and in an orientation allowing the user to position the screen of the communication terminal at an ideal angle in his field of vision.

[0070] This objective is achieved by the following example.

[0071] According to a particular and non-limiting example of embodiment of the present invention and as illustrated according to [Fig. 1], there is provided according to the present invention a device 10 for supporting a communication terminal T fixed by means of fixing means 11, 12 on a frame 21 of a bodybuilding apparatus 20 in an area ideally located in the user's field of vision.

[0072] In this example, this fixing is done by means of repositionable adhesives 11a, 11b. The fixing points 111, 121 are then defined as the points (111, 121) at the center of the surface in contact between the device 10 and the support plane of the frame 21. The axis A passing through these two points 111, 121 is then called the fixing axis A. The advantage of such a fixing by repositionable adhesives lies in the fact that it does not damage the frame 21. The fixing is thus made temporary and universal. It also allows nomadic use of this device 10. It is thus easy for a user to move this support 10 from machine 20 to machine 20 according to the different exercises that he has to perform. A simple pressure exerted on the device 10 allows it to be stuck to the frame 21 of a machine 20 before starting an exercise. Once this exercise is finished, the user simply has to pull on the device 10 to peel off the adhesives and thus release it, leaving no trace on the frame 21. The device 10 is again ready to be fixed on another frame 21.

[0073] Obviously, other fixing means 11, 12 can be used. These may be, for example, screws 11b, 12b as illustrated in [Fig.2]. The support points 111, 121 are then defined as the intersection of the axes of the screws 11b, 12b and the support surface of the frame 21.

[0074] The advantage of this second method of fixing is that it can permanently fix the device 10 to the frame 21. The owner of the machine 20 can then have a support for his communication terminal T at all times. If the owner of the machine 20 is the manager of a sports hall, he can then offer his customers a suitable support for placing their smartphones in an ideal position while avoiding the risk of seeing this device 10 moved or stolen.

[0075] A third method of attachment is illustrated in [Fig. 3]. Here we find clamping collars 11c, 12c as attachment means 11, 12. Each attachment point 111, 121 is here defined as the point at the center of the surface in contact between the device 10 and the frame 21. This attachment combines certain advantages of the two aforementioned attachment means. Indeed, the attachment by collar makes it possible not to damage the frame 21 but offers a permanent attachment, making it necessary to use a tool for dismantling the device 10.

[0076] Other fixing means, not illustrated here, are also conceivable, such as magnetic fixings by incorporating magnets into the device 10, fixing by suction cup, or any other commonly used fixing means.

[0077] In this example and as illustrated in [Fig. 1], the device comprises a main body 13 having two support points respectively placed on the elongate elements 13b receiving as support the lower edge T1 of the communication terminal T. The communication terminal can therefore be placed on the support, for example on an edge of its lateral edge.

[0078] The device also comprises a first plate 14 having a support surface extending in a determined plane P, called the plane of the plate. The communication terminal T can thus rest on, for example, its rear face.

[0079] The main body 13 and the support plate 14 may be separate parts, which will then be assembled. In this case, it is possible to have these parts 13, 14 made of different materials.

[0080] In this example, the main body 13 and the support plate 14 form only one single and same part, they thus form a single-piece assembly. This solution has several advantages such as high mechanical rigidity, a relatively low manufacturing cost, the device 10 not requiring a specific assembly process for this assembly or even easier management of spare parts for after-sales service.

[0081] The manufacture of the main body 13 and / or the plate 14 of the device 10 could be done using an injection process in a thermoplastic material. An ideal material is, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC) or polypropylene (PP). These materials would have characteristics such as rigidity, lightness and longevity suitable for this type of use. However, these examples of materials are not limiting; the use of metals or bio-sourced materials is also conceivable. In order to prevent any sliding of the terminal T relative to the device 10, it is possible to add a mechanical stop 15. This stop is placed at the end 132 of the main body 13, on the side opposite the end 131 close to the plate 14. This stop is made over the entire width of the main body 13.This stop ensures the stability of the terminal T in many situations, in particular when the terminal T is not placed vertically or in the case where the center of gravity of the communication terminal is not directly above the main body 13 or the plate 14. This situation can occur when the communication terminal is very large. Indeed, the terminal T sometimes risks slipping, it thus does not maintain its correct orientation as defined to be in the user's field of vision. Worse still, the terminal T could fall from its support and thus deteriorate.

[0082] It is however possible to do without this mechanical stop 15. This is not in fact necessary in all situations.

[0083] In addition, it is possible to use a “non-slip” material or coating, i.e. one with a high coefficient of friction, to produce the main body 13. The use, for example, of an elastomer is suitable here. The elastomer can be inserted in the form of a rubber coating glued to the surface of the main body 13 or even overmolded, i.e. molded so as to coat all or part of the main body 13.

[0084] In the absence of a “non-slip” material, a specific texture aimed at creating roughness could be applied so as to define a surface condition increasing the coefficient of friction in the support zone 13b.

[0085] [Fig.4] shows these two support points 13b, defined by two elongated elements, arranged on either side of the main body 13. Their spacing makes it possible to avoid any tilting effect of the terminal T. In the case where the terminal T has interface zones such as buttons or charging and / or communication ports nication on its lateral edge, it is thus possible to arrange the terminal T in such a way as to prevent these interface zones from coming into contact with the main body 13.

[0086] Each person skilled in the art will, of course, be able to define other shapes and interfaces between the terminal T and the main body 13. [Fig. 5] illustrates, according to another embodiment, a plate 13a arranged to receive the terminal T in support on its edge T1. This type of embodiment makes it possible to have a multitude of support points, thus reducing the pressure exerted in the interface zones between the terminal T and the main body 13.

[0087] In addition, such a terminal T can be equipped with various accessories. For example, there is a charger and its cable, or even earpieces. In order not to have to separate them from the terminal T when it is installed on the device 10, and as shown in [Fig. 8], the device 10 has a receptacle 16. This is intended to receive certain accessories.

[0088] As illustrated in [Fig.9], it is also possible for a part of the terminal T to enter this receptacle 16. The terminal T will then be placed on a surface 16a at the bottom of the receptacle 16.

[0089] This same receptacle 16 is, in this example, perforated, further allowing a flow of air to pass through and thus cool the terminal T, or even allowing a cable to pass through allowing a charger or accessories to be connected even while the terminal T is placed on the device 10.

[0090] This example is not limiting, the presence of a receptacle 16 is in fact not obligatory to produce the device 10. Figures 6 and 7 thus show a device 10 not having such a receptacle 16.

[0091] The terminal T is thus, according to the above, installed on the device 10, itself fixed to the frame 21 of the bodybuilding apparatus 20, in a stable manner and in the user's field of vision. It is also appropriate to orient the terminal T at a precise angle in the user's field of vision.

[0092] The two fixing points 111, 121 define a fixing axis A. The plane P determined by the bearing surface of the first plate 14 is inclined relative to the fixing axis at an angle of inclination a.

[0093] This angle of inclination a also makes it possible to orient the communication terminal T so as to present its screen in the user's field of vision.

[0094] By positioning the support 10 for example facing the user, in the center of his field of vision, and by orienting the communication terminal T so as to have the screen for example perpendicular to the median axis of the user's field of vision, it is then obvious that the installation of the communication terminal T is ergonomic and practical. The user thus does not have to turn his head during the exercise and The screen orientation helps avoid any reflections.

[0095] Depending on the configuration of the device, the angle a has a value of, for example, between 70 and 90°. The value of 80° is ideal in the case where the device is fixed to a vertical part of the frame 21 of a bodybuilding apparatus such as a vertical upright. Of course, these angle a values ​​are not limiting and could be extended over a range of between 60 and 90°, for example, to adapt to particular frame geometries 21.

[0096] In order for the user to benefit from optimal adjustment of the inclination of the communication terminal, it is possible to have an alternative embodiment in which the inclination angle a can be adjusted, for example, by the user. Such an adjustment can be envisaged using spacers 17 of different sizes, or using a single spacer 17 whose dimension can vary, for example using a threaded part.

[0097] In this example, the spacer is placed between the fixing element 12 and the plate 14. This location allows for direct and intuitive adjustment of the inclination angle a for the user. Indeed, the lengthening of the spacer 17 will increase the value of the angle a, and conversely the reduction of the length of the spacer 17 will decrease the value of the angle a.

[0098] As mentioned previously, the user may be required to use fitness applications, these presenting programs and / or instructions adapted to the bodybuilding machine on which the device 10 is attached.

[0099] In order to facilitate the search for the application or program adapted to the bodybuilding machine and as illustrated in [Fig. 10], a display area 18 is arranged on the device 10. A matrix code (also called QR code) is affixed to one of the display areas.

[0100] This type of information is applied, for example, by printing on the device using a permanent marking process such as inkjet or UV printing, or by a temporary marking process by sticking a label.

[0101] The information contained on this communication device is not limited to information relating to the use of the bodybuilding machine but may, for example, contain advertising, present a logo or even communicate information on events.

[0102] Thus, the user, thanks to the present invention, has an accessory allowing him to place his communication terminal T stably at a height, in his field of vision. The orientation of the screen of this terminal T is then ideal for viewing coaching-type training sessions while carrying out the various exercises.

[0103] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to different examples of particular embodiments of the present invention, but that in no case does this description have any limiting character to the subject of the invention; on the contrary, its objective is to remove any possible imprecision or any misinterpretation of the claims which follow.

[0104] It should also be noted that the reference signs placed in parentheses in the following claims are in no way limiting; these signs have the sole purpose of improving the intelligibility and understanding of the following claims as well as the scope of the protection sought.

Claims

Claims

1. Support device (10) for a communication terminal (T) intended to be fixed by means of fixing means (11, 12) on a frame (21) of a bodybuilding apparatus (20) according to two fixing points (111, 121) defining a fixing axis (A), said device (10) being characterized in that it comprises: - a main body (13) having at least two support points configured to receive in support an edge (T1) of a communication terminal (T); and - a first plate (14) having a support surface extending in a determined plane (P), called the plane of the plate, inclined relative to the fixing axis (A) according to an angle of inclination a and configured to receive in support said communication terminal (T) in said plane of the plate (P),

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the main body (13) comprises a second plate (13a).

3. Device (10) according to claim 1, in which the main body (13) comprises at least two elongate elements (13b), each elongate element (13b) defining a line of support points.

4. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, which comprises a stop (15) extending said main body (13) along a distal end (132) of said main body (13), opposite a proximal end (131) of said main body (13), said stop (15) being configured to prevent relative sliding of said communication terminal (T) relative to said device (10).

5. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, in which said angle a has a value between 70 and 90°.

6. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said angle a is adjustable using a spacer (17).

7. Device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the spacer (17) is placed between at least one of said support points (111, 121) and the first plate (14).

8. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said fixing means (11, 12) are configured to securely fix said support (10) to said frame (21) of the bodybuilding apparatus (20).

9. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said fixing means (11, 12) are configured to fix in a manner removable said support (10) from said frame (21) of the bodybuilding apparatus (20).

10. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, which comprises a receptacle (16) capable of receiving at least partially a portion of said communication terminal (T).

11. Device (10) according to claim 10, wherein said receptacle (16) has an openwork structure.

12. Device (10) according to claims 1 to 11, wherein the main body (13) is made of a non-slip material.

13. Device according to claims 1 to 12, in which the main body (13) and the plate (14) form a single-piece assembly.

14. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body (13) and / or the plate (14) are made of a thermoplastic material.

15. A device (10) according to any preceding claim, which comprises at least one display area (18) comprising a matrix code.

16. A bodybuilding apparatus (20) comprising a support device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 15 which is fixed to a frame (21) of said apparatus (20).

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