Modifiable floating dumbbell

Abstract

The invention relates to a modifiable floating dumbbell comprising four elements and functionally cooperating with each other: - a floating element intended for gripping and manipulation called "gripping axis" (100), - a plurality of floating solid elements with flat bearing faces, intended to equip one and / or the other of the two free ends of the "gripping axis" (100) hereinafter referred to as "active mass" (200); - an element intended to facilitate gripping and prevent slipping of the "gripping axis" (100) called "axis sleeve" (300); - a plurality of fixing elements called "mass fixing" (400) to immobilize in position the "Active Mass" (200) on the "gripping axis" (100) or the "end axis" (102) of the "gripping axis" (100). It comprises at least one sensor (500) housed inside the “axle sleeve” (300). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Modifiable floating dumbbell Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a connected aquatic isokinetic dumbbell. It applies, in particular, to muscle work linked to balneotherapy. Prior art

[0002] This invention relates to individual equipment designed for physical and sporting exercise in an aquatic environment. Its versatility lies in its ability to adjust the position of its components to adapt to different parts of the body to be worked and to the specific fitness level of each user.

[0003] Thus, this versatile equipment allows for optimal adjustment of exercises according to the morphology and physical resistance of each participant during group classes. It offers the possibility of transforming quickly and easily to adapt to the evolution of the program, thus avoiding the use of a multitude of different devices.

[0004] Over the last decade, aquatic physical activity, commonly known as "Aquagym," has grown in popularity. Although it probably began under another name in Roman times, it has become a sport widely practiced by individuals of all ages and conditions. Today, almost all swimming pools or aquatic leisure centers offer activities that can be likened to "aquagym."

[0005] The growing interest in this activity is probably due in part to the fact that "aquagym" offers an excellent combination of relaxation and sport in a friendly atmosphere. In addition, this activity is considered a complete exercise involving many muscle groups, thanks to a variety of exercises performed with equipment specially designed to target different parts of the body. Unlike most sports, the risk of injury associated with this activity is reduced. Movements and impacts are softened by the resistance of the water, thus preserving the joints from any sudden contact with the ground. When the body is immersed in water, its apparent weight is reduced to approximately one-third of its land weight, making movement easier for participants of all ages and fitness levels.

[0006] Although the exercise can be performed independently and without specific assistance, it is recommended to use trained therapists and instructors, as they are qualified to design individual and tailored exercise programs, often using various specially designed accessories. Among these Accessories include the "foam noodle", the "floating boards" that many used in their childhood, as well as equipment such as dumbbells, webbed gloves, floating belts, aqua paddles and other "pull-push" equipment.

[0007] This invention focuses mainly on an accessory held in each hand by the practitioner, activated in the water to work the upper limbs and strengthen the muscles as well as the resistance of the hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders: dumbbells. They increase the resistance in the water, which helps to strengthen the muscles of the upper body.

[0008] In current practice, various types of dumbbells are used during aquatic exercises: foam floating dumbbells, buoy-shaped floating dumbbells, plastic (PVC) floating dumbbells, each with distinct technical characteristics, as well as specific advantages and disadvantages.

[0009] For example, cylindrical foam floating dumbbells provide a moderate increase in buoyancy, but can compromise balance. In addition, they often require hydrodynamic efforts that exceed the average abilities of exercisers.

[0010] On the other hand, PVC aquatic dumbbells, available in different shapes, only allow limited hydrodynamic efforts, with little possibility of power variation and without significant improvement in buoyancy.

[0011] In search of improved stability, optimal buoyancy and perfect balance, characteristics which require variability of shapes and positions, the author of this invention designed aquatic dumbbells called "Modifiable Floating Dumbbells". These dumbbells have an adaptable and modular structure to adapt to various exercises performed in an aquatic environment, depending on the physical capabilities of the user.

[0012] The use of this accessory avoids the multiple changes of equipment required during an aquatic exercise program, as well as the selection and adaptation of this equipment according to the physical condition of the user. This also reduces the need to use multiple utensils, which can have economic and management implications.

[0013] The modifiable floating dumbbells are intended for a wide audience, including gymnastics practitioners in private swimming pools, professionals leading aquagym sessions in public or private swimming pools, as well as medical professionals involved in motor rehabilitation in an aquatic environment.

[0014] The dumbbell uses the resistance of the water to provide isokinetic force, that is, constant force throughout the range of motion.

[0015] Isokinetic strength refers to the muscular force generated when a muscle contracts at a constant speed, regardless of the resistance encountered. Unlike dynamic strength, where contraction speed varies, isokinetic strength involves movement at a constant speed. This measurement is often used in rehabilitation and sports performance to assess muscle strength and functional capacity at different movement speeds.

[0016] Isokinetic devices are used to measure and train this force in a controlled environment.

[0017] The aquatic isokinetic force is adjustable and adjusted according to the practitioner's abilities, which allows for personalized and progressive rehabilitation, the resistance of the water being proportional to the speed of movement of the dumbbell.

[0018] However, in current inventions, the animating professionals do not have knowledge of the number of movements or the quality of the movement. Presentation of the invention

[0019] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks with a completely innovative approach.

[0020] In particular, an objective of the invention is to provide such a technique making it possible to dispense with any other complex adjustment system.

[0021] Another objective of the invention is to provide such a technique which is inexpensive to implement and which does not require any particular maintenance.

[0022] An objective of the invention is to provide such a technique, which can be easily adapted to existing systems.

[0023] These objectives, as well as others which will appear subsequently, are achieved, using a modifiable floating dumbbell comprising four elements and functionally cooperating with each other: - a floating element intended for gripping and manipulation called a “gripping axis”, - a plurality of floating solid elements with flat bearing faces, intended to equip one and / or the other of the two free ends of the “gripping axis” hereinafter referred to as “active mass”; - an element intended to facilitate gripping and prevent slipping of the “gripping axis” called “axis sleeve”; - a plurality of fixing elements called “mass fixing” for immobilizing the “active masses” in position on the “gripping axis” or the “end axis” of the “gripping axis”; remarkable in that it includes at least one sensor housed inside the “axle sleeve”.

[0024] Thanks to these provisions, the sensor makes it possible to accurately measure force, speed or other parameters during exercise, thus providing objective data on the user's performance.

[0025] Data collected by the sensor can be displayed in real time, allowing the user to monitor their performance during exercise and adjust their intensity or technique accordingly.

[0026] By providing instant feedback on the quality and effectiveness of each repetition or movement, the sensor allows the user to correct and improve their technique more quickly.

[0027] Data collected by the sensor can be used to customize training programs based on the user's specific goals and needs.

[0028] By visualizing progress over time and receiving data-driven encouragement, users are more motivated to train regularly and achieve their goals.

[0029] The data collected by the sensor can be analyzed in detail to identify the user's trends, strengths and weaknesses, thus making it possible to optimize training and maximize results.

[0030] The dumbbell is water resistant. The concept of "water resistant" refers to the ability of a material or product to resist water or to be impervious to water to a certain extent.

[0031] In one example, dumbbells replace the swimming board.

[0032] The dumbbell allows to be self-supporting, the movements allow possibilities of being carried by the induced movements, during use the whole body moves.

[0033] The invention is advantageously implemented according to the embodiments and variants set out below, which are to be considered individually or according to any technically effective combination.

[0034] In one embodiment, said "gripping shaft" comprises a filling foam inside. This avoids having air inside.

[0035] In one embodiment, said sensor is at least one of the following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor and a clock.

[0036] These sensors can measure the movements and rotations of the dumbbell during exercise. They can be used to track movement speed, force exerted, stability and other relevant parameters. This provides data on potential left and right imbalances.

[0037] Another example of a sensor could be a pressure sensor that measures the resistance of water during exercise. This type of sensor can provide information on the force exerted by the user during the pushing or pulling phase of the exercise.

[0038] Finally, a temperature sensor can also be used to monitor the temperature of the surrounding water, which can be useful for adjusting exercise intensity based on environmental conditions.

[0039] The clock allows you to measure exercise time. It is also possible for this clock to be managed by the mobile terminal.

[0040] In one embodiment, said sensor is wirelessly connected to a mobile terminal.

[0041] The mobile terminal is for example: a digital tablet, a mobile phone, in particular of the “smartphone” type, a connected watch, connected glasses, a remote control, a computer, or a virtual reality headset.

[0042] In one embodiment, the “gripping shaft” consists of a tubular body of circular section to receive at each of its ends the “active masses”, or consists of a tubular body of circular section extended at each of its ends and on its longitudinal axis by a fixing shaft of circular section called “end shaft”, to receive at each of its ends the “active masses” and a means of immobilizing said “active masses” called “mass fixing”, the ends of the “gripping shaft” or of the “end shafts” of said “gripping shaft” being smooth or arranged to receive a means of immobilizing the “active masses” called “mass fixing”.

[0043] In one embodiment, the “gripping axis” or “end axes” of said “gripping axis” are of star or multi-lobed section to facilitate the immobilization of the “active masses” in several defined positions and thus reinforce their resistance to rotation, in particular a four-branched or four-lobed star section to receive by force and interference a “gripping bore” of the same shape of each “active mass”.

[0044] In one embodiment, the “axle sleeve” is made of plastic or ergonomic foam, it is placed by force on the tubular body of the “gripping axle” and positioned on the central part of its length, between one and the other of the “active masses” equipping the ends of said “gripping axle”.

[0045] In one embodiment, each of the “active masses” with flat bearing faces, and in various external and volume dimensions, is made up of a decahedron block, made in at least one piece and comprising two large opposite parallel rectangular flat faces called “bearing face”, respectively perpendicular to two opposite parallel flat faces called “axial face”, each of the short sides of each of the “bearing face” being followed by a concave plane called “flow plane”, to join and form with the “flow plane” of the opposite “bearing face”, a small parallel rectangular flat face called “end face”.

[0046] In one embodiment, each of the “active masses” is made from a material with a very high buoyancy coefficient.

[0047] The material with a very high buoyancy coefficient is, for example, polyethylene foam or any other floating solid material. Brief description of the figures

[0048] Other advantages, aims and characteristics of the present invention emerge from the following description given, for explanatory and in no way limiting purposes, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0049] [Fig. 1] is a general perspective view of the dumbbell according to an object of the invention showing all the “active masses” in the same position, in particular in a vertical position;

[0050] [Fig.2] is a general perspective view of the dumbbell according to an object of the invention showing an “active mass” moved in rotation around the “gripping axis”;

[0051] [Fig. 3] represents a perspective view showing the installation of two “active masses” on the smooth “end axis” of a “gripping axis”, comprising a “sensor” inside one of the “active masses” protected by the locking, itself being operated by a force-fitted plug;

[0052] [Fig.4] is a perspective view showing two “active masses” installed on one end of the “gripping axis” of cylindrical section and immobilized by means of a force-fitted plug;

[0053] [Fig. 5] represents a perspective view of an “active mass” provided with a “gripping bore” of cylindrical section;

[0054] [Fig.6] shows a perspective view of the use of the dumbbell;

[0055] [Fig.7] shows a perspective view of the use of the dumbbell according to another position of the “active masses;

[0056] [Fig.8] represents a perspective view of the use of the dumbbell according to another position of the “active masses”. Description of the embodiments

[0057] [Fig.l] shows a general perspective view of the dumbbell of the invention showing all the “active masses” in the same position, in particular in a vertical position.

[0058] The dumbbell consists of four distinct elements or sets of elements which work in cooperation:

[0059] A floating element designed for gripping and manipulation, called a “grip axis” 100.

[0060] A series of floating solid elements with flat bearing faces, intended to be fixed to one and / or the other free end of the “gripping axis” 100, hereinafter referred to as the “active mass” 200.

[0061] An element designed to facilitate gripping and prevent slippage of the “gripping shaft”, called “shaft sleeve” 300.

[0062] A series of fixing elements called “mass fixing” 400, intended to immobilize the “active masses” 200 in position on the “gripping axis” 100 or on the “end axis” 102 (see [Fig.3]) of the “gripping axis” 100.

[0063] The element designated as the “gripping axis” 100 consists of a tubular body, preferably of circular section, designed to accommodate the “active masses” 200 at each end, as well as a device for fixing said “active masses” 200, called “mass fixing” 400. The “gripping axis” 100 can be entirely smooth or arranged at each end depending on the device for fixing the “active masses” 200.

[0064] The “axle sleeve” 300 is made from a flexible material such as rubber, plastic or ergonomic foam. It is ideally firmly fixed on the tubular body of the “gripping axle” 100, and preferably positioned in the center of its length, between each of the “active masses” 200 which equip the ends of the “gripping axle” 100.

[0065] Naturally, the invention is described in the above by way of example. It is understood that those skilled in the art are able to carry out different variant embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0066] [Fig.2] shows a general perspective view of the dumbbell of the invention showing an “active mass” moved in rotation around the “grip axis”.

[0067] This figure shows the elements described above, it shows the “gripping axis” 100, “active masses” 200, the “axis sleeve” 300, the “mass attachment” 400. Each “active mass” 200 is mobile in rotation and makes it possible to adapt the resistance of the water on the dumbbell for each user.

[0068] The “gripping axis” 100 adopts a star or multi-lobed section in order to allow immobilization of the “active masses” 200 in several defined positions, thus reinforcing their resistance to rotation. For example, it may be a four-pointed or four-lobed star section designed to firmly and snugly accommodate the similarly shaped “gripping bore” 206 present on each “active mass” 200. This arrangement allows each “active mass” 200 to align in at least one predetermined specific position, such as a horizontal “bearing face” 201 for maximum force or a vertical “bearing face” 201 for minimum force.

[0069] [Fig. 3] shows a perspective view showing the installation of two “active masses” on the smooth “end axis” of a “gripping axis”, comprising a “sensor” inside one of the “active masses” protected by the lock, itself being operated by a force-fitted plug.

[0070] The “gripping axis” 100 is composed of a tubular body 101 with a cross-section of preferably circular, which is extended at each end and along its longitudinal axis by a fixing axis also of circular section, designated as the “end axis” 102. This end axis is designed to accommodate a device for immobilizing the “active masses” 200, called “mass fixing” 400. The “end axis” 102 can be entirely smooth or adapted at each end depending on the device for fixing the “active masses”.

[0071] The dimensions of the “gripping axis” 100 as well as of each “active mass” 200 are determined so that the “gripping axis” 100 can accommodate at least one “active mass” 200 at each end.

[0072] A sensor 500 is shown which allows the calculation and recording of speed, distance, strength, balance and training time data in order to communicate them remotely to an application.

[0073] [Fig.4] shows a perspective view showing two “active masses” installed on one end of the “gripping axis” of cylindrical section and immobilized by means of a force-fitted plug.

[0074] This figure shows the elements described previously, namely:

[0075] [Fig.5] shows a perspective view of an “active mass” provided with a “gripping bore” of cylindrical section.

[0076] Each “active mass” 200 provided with flat bearing faces is manufactured from a decahedral block comprising 10 faces, made in at least one piece. This block comprises two large opposite rectangular flat faces called “bearing faces” 201, perpendicular to two other opposite parallel flat faces called “axial faces” 202. Each of the short sides of the “bearing faces” 201 is followed by a concave plane designated as a “flow plane” 203, making it possible to join and form, with the “flow plane” 203 of the opposite “bearing face” 201, a small parallel rectangular flat face called an “end face” 204.

[0077] This figure shows the “support axis” 205 and “gripping bore” 206.

[0078] Each “active mass” (200) is made from a material with a very high buoyancy coefficient, such as polyethylene foam or any other floating solid material. These masses are available in a variety of external and volume dimensions, which makes it possible to adapt the “floating dumbbell” to the exercise being performed as well as to the physical condition of the practitioner.

[0079] Each “active mass” 200 is crossed from one side to the other by a central axis called “support axis” 205, which passes through the center of each of the “axial faces” 202. This support axis creates a space designated as “gripping bore” 206, of circular section, designed and dimensioned to firmly and snugly receive the “gripping axis” 100, seen above. Thus, each of the “active masses” “200” located at each end of the “gripping axis” 100 can pivot independently around this axis, thus making it possible to adopt the optimal position for the exercise in progress.

[0080] For example, the "bearing face" 201 may be positioned horizontally to apply maximum force, with the water movements directed by the "flow planes" 203. Alternatively, the "bearing face" 201 may be positioned vertically with the "end face" 204 facing downward to apply minimal force, with the water movements directed by the "flow planes" 203.

[0081] Figures 6 to 8 show perspective views of the use of the dumbbell according to different positions of the “active masses”.

[0082] The dumbbell allows remarkable freedom of movement for the lower limbs thanks to its suspension capacity, whether in stationary mode or in propulsive mode. This feature offers an optimal range of movement, thus promoting efficient and safe leg work.

[0083] It should be noted that this equipment is particularly beneficial for learning to swim. By providing suitable support and controlled immersion in the water, it allows beginners to acquire the basics of swimming while developing their confidence in this aquatic environment.

[0084] Furthermore, these properties make it a valuable tool for hydrokinesitherapy. By allowing adjustable resistance and targeted work on the lower limbs, it offers aquatic rehabilitation professionals an effective way to treat various physical conditions while protecting the joints.

[0085] It is emphasized that all features, as they emerge for a person skilled in the art from the present description, the drawings and the attached features, even if concretely they have only been described in relation to other determined features, both individually and in any combinations, can be combined with other features or groups of features disclosed herein, provided that this has not been expressly excluded or that technical circumstances make such combinations impossible or meaningless. List of reference signs

[0086] [Tables 1] References Designations 100 Gripping shaft 101 Tubular body 102 End shafts 103 Thread 104 End shafts 200 Active masses 201 Support face 202 Axial face 203 Flow plane 204 End face 205 Support shaft 206 Gripping bore 300 Shaft sleeve 400 Mass fixing 401 Plug 402 Washer 403 Thread 500 Sensor

Claims

Claims

1. Modifiable floating dumbbell comprising four elements and functionally cooperating with each other: - a floating element intended for gripping and manipulation called "gripping axis" (100), - a plurality of floating solid elements with flat bearing faces, intended to equip one and / or the other of the two free ends of the "gripping axis" (100) hereinafter referred to as "active mass" (200); - an element intended to facilitate gripping and prevent slipping of the "gripping axis" (100) called "axis sleeve" (300); - a plurality of fixing elements called “mass fixing” (400) for immobilizing in position the “active masses” (200) on the “gripping axis” (100) or an “end axis” (102) of the “gripping axis” (100); characterized in that it comprises at least one sensor (500) housed inside the “axis sleeve” (300).

2. A dumbbell according to claim 1, wherein said "grip shaft" (100) comprises a filling foam therein.

3. The dumbbell of claim 1, wherein said sensor (500) is at least one of the following: an accelerometer, a gyroscope, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, and a clock.

4. A dumbbell according to claim 1, wherein said sensor (500) is wirelessly connected to a mobile terminal.

5. Dumbbell according to claim 1, in which the "gripping shaft" (100) consists of a tubular body of circular section for receiving at each of its ends the "active masses" (200), or consists of a tubular body (101) of circular section extended at each of its ends and on its longitudinal axis by a fixing shaft of circular section defining the "end shaft" (102), for receiving at each of its ends the "active masses" (200) and a means for immobilizing said "active masses" (200) called "mass fixing" (400), the ends of the "gripping shaft" (100) or of the "end shafts" (102) of said "gripping shaft" (100) being smooth or arranged for receive a means of immobilizing the “active mass” (200) called “mass fixation” (400).

6. Dumbbell according to claim 1, in which the "gripping axis" (100) or "end axes" (104) of said "gripping axis" (100) are of star or multi-lobed section to facilitate the immobilization of the "active mass" (200) in several defined positions and thus reinforce their resistance to rotation, in particular a four-branched or four-lobed star section to forcefully receive a "gripping bore" (206) of the same shape of each "active mass" (200).

7. Dumbbell according to claim 1, in which the "axle sleeve" (300) is made of ergonomic plastic or foam, it is force-fitted onto the tubular body (101) of the "gripping axle" (100) and positioned on the central part of its length, between one and the other of the "active masses" (200) equipping the ends of said "gripping axle" (100).

8. Dumbbell according to claim 1, in which each of the "active masses" (200) with flat bearing faces, and in various external and volume dimensions, is made up of a decahedron block, made in at least one piece and comprising two large opposite parallel rectangular flat faces called "bearing face" (201), respectively perpendicular to two opposite parallel flat faces called "axial face" (202), each of the short sides of each of the "bearing face" (201) being followed by a concave plane called "flow plane" (203), to join and form with the "flow plane" (203) of the opposite "bearing face" (201), a small parallel rectangular flat face called "end face" (204).

9. A dumbbell according to claim 1, wherein each of the "active masses" (200) is made from a material having a buoyancy coefficient.

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