Motor-driven elevating rack system

Abstract

To provide a system that makes a gym more profitable and cost-effective for a gym's owner, investors, and users who perform training using the present invention.SOLUTION: Provided is a motor-driven elevating rack that selectively raises and lowers a barbell 120 via a linear actuator 70B. The driven elevating rack can engage the barbell at a floor level. Additionally, the linear actuator can selectively raise and lower a safety bar 80, which is designed to assist a single user during barbell exercises. The driven elevating rack is implemented as a system that includes a platform capable of nesting the safety bar. The platform provides a plurality of operational benches for users engaging with the barbell.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 200,471, filed March 9, 2021, and incorporates the contents of that application by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Every environment is resource-constrained, and the gym environment is no exception. Examples of constrained resources in a gym include, but are not limited to: Equipment resources, such as barbells, barbell weights, squat racks, lifting platforms, power racks, benches, dumbbells, and other exercise equipment and machines, as well as the space required for the equipment. Human resources, such as personal trainers and gym "assistants." Additionally, time spent at the gym (which includes the time spent setting up and taking down equipment and waiting for it to become available) and money spent on training programs and memberships are also limited resources. Most equipment currently available on the market is inefficient at optimizing these limited resources.

[0003] Much multipurpose equipment, like power racks, falls short in making the most of these limited resources. Some of the inefficiencies of power racks include, but are not limited to: Despite their multipurpose nature, many can only be effectively used by one user at a time. Most power racks hold a barbell with two J-hooks (or similar devices that hold the barbell for easy use). The barbell is not fixed to the J-hooks; the J-hooks are positioned in a series of spaced vertical pinholes in the frame members. As a result, most power rack users must manually adjust the height of the J-hooks by first removing the barbell (if not already in place), then pulling the J-hooks out of the frame members, and then properly aligning the two J-hooks with one of the frame members' spaced vertical pinholes. If the power rack has safety bars (or safety pins, straps, or other similar devices), they must also be manually adjusted, just like the J-hooks.

[0004] Also, because the barbell is not secured in place, if it is unevenly weighted high off the ground, the barbell could roll off the J-hook and fall, making it difficult and dangerous to fully weight one side of the barbell and then the other. In other words, there is nothing to secure the barbell to the J-hook, so you cannot load a heavy weight on one side of the barbell and then load it on the other side, as the barbell could roll.

[0005] Thus, most power racks are inefficient when adjusting the height of the barbell on the J-hooks, safety pins / bars, and / or changing the weights on the barbell, and this inefficiency is amplified by the fact that each power rack in a gym is used by dozens of users over the course of a day, requiring constant changes to the barbell and safety pin / bar heights as well as swapping out the weights on the barbell before starting the first routine between different users, and potentially having to do it again for each subsequent routine.

[0006] Additionally, most power racks require users to manually move the bench (or other similar device) into and out of its lifting position for the bench press (or other similar exercise) so that other users can use the power rack without the bench. This makes it even more inefficient for training more than one person who needs to use the same barbell and similar weights but who need to perform different lifts. Furthermore, most power racks require users to manually position lifting blocks (or other similar devices) to perform barbell exercises from the high starting position on the power rack. This manual effort of moving and repositioning the lifting blocks is inefficient in maximizing the number of people who can train with the equipment and minimizing the time spent by people who need to perform different barbell exercises on the same power rack using the same barbell.

[0007] Additionally, most power racks make it difficult for multiple people to train using similarly weighted barbells. For example, a power rack may be configured for one user to squat 225 pounds, but a second user may need to deadlift 225 pounds and a third user may need to bench 225 pounds, yet there may be no way to effectively reconfigure the equipment to perform these lifts within seconds of each other using the same barbell on the same power rack. In this example, users must manually load and unload the barbell and reconfigure the power rack for each exercise, a process that is inefficient.

[0008] Additionally, most power racks do not feature a real-time, active "assist" system for users during a session (similar to how users "assist" each other) and / or may not train users on how to lift weights with proper technique. This increases the risk of injury for users who do not know how to lift weights with proper technique and / or how to properly set up the equipment. Furthermore, most power racks are unable to lift weighted or unweighted (or other weighted) barbells from the floor to a manageable height for users who lack the strength or athletic ability to do so themselves.

[0009] What is needed is a system that helps minimize time spent in gyms, minimizes the space required for training equipment, maximizes the number of people that can train in a gym, and reduces the risk of injury during training - in other words, a system that makes gyms more profitable and cost-effective for gym owners, investors, and users who train using the invention. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Broadly speaking, one embodiment of the present invention provides a system for selectively raising and lowering a barbell via a linear actuator. The system can engage an unweighted barbell on the floor. The linear actuator can also selectively raise and lower a safety bar to "assist" the barbell for a single user. The invention is embodied in a system including a platform within which the safety bar and actuation benches can nest. The platform provides multiple actuation benches for users utilizing the barbells. The actuation benches, located outside the upright structure, can further "assist" the barbell exercise, tilting and repositioning the barbell to roll along the platform for lifting on the floor or back onto the bar support, and deflecting a dropped barbell away from the lifter.

[0011] Specifically, the present invention relates to a system for selectively operating a barbell on a J-hook, safety bar, side, and center working bench between the floor and an operable height, wherein the J-hook and / or safety bar for supporting the barbell are provided with a latch. The present invention relates to a free weight training system, and more particularly, to a motorized lifting rack system that selectively raises and lowers a barbell via a linear actuator. The motorized lifting rack system can engage an unweighted barbell at the floor surface. The linear actuator can also selectively raise and lower the safety bar to "assist" a barbell exercise for a single user. The present invention is embodied in a system that includes a platform on which the safety bar and working bench can nest. The platform provides multiple working benches for use by barbell users. The working benches, located outside the upright structure, can further "assist" a barbell exercise, tilting and repositioning the barbell to roll along the platform for lifting on the floor or back onto the bar support, and deflecting a dropped barbell away from the lifter.

[0012] The motorized lifting rack system embodied in the present invention allows for more efficient and precise height adjustment of the side and center actuation benches, J-hooks, and safety bar, regardless of whether a barbell is present or not, and whether weights are present on the barbell. Additionally, a bar lock / latch can be used to secure the barbell to the notches in the J-hooks or safety bar, allowing for more efficient weight loading and unloading. The overall system allows the user to selectively lift the barbell off the ground via the J-hooks, safety bar, or side actuation bench using a linear actuator. It also maximizes the number of people using the equipment, allowing multiple people to perform different barbell exercises using the same weight. For example, one person may bench 225 pounds while another performs a deadlift at 225 pounds. After the first person benches at 225 pounds, the system can lower the bench and lower the barbell on the J-hooks to the floor. The outer bench can then be tilted and the barbell can be rolled into place, repositioning the barbell in the center of the platform so that another person can perform a 225-pound deadlift. After the deadlift, the process can be easily reversed and the original person can bench 225 pounds again.

[0013] Additionally, the motorized lifting rack system embodied in the present invention reduces the risk of injury by having a backup assist system to effectively "assist" the user during a training session. This assist system has a faster reaction time than a human assist and can "assist" with weights much heavier than a typical human. The present invention also reduces the risk of injury by training the user how to properly lift weights, and reduces the risk of injury to bystanders by providing a command and control system to maintain the barbell on the system, even if the bell is accidentally or intentionally dropped onto the system.

[0014] In one aspect of the invention, a lift rack includes a plurality of uprights, at least one linear actuator housed in each upright, a motor driving each linear actuator, an interface extending along the length of each upright, and a support transition portion operably associating the bar support with the at least one linear actuator such that the bar support can be selectively moved along the interface.

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, a motorized lift rack system includes: a platform having a first working bench connecting a proximal end of each upright to the platform and disposed between the plurality of uprights, a motor operatively associated with the first working bench such that the first working bench is selectively movable between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein in the retracted position, an upper surface of the first working bench is substantially flush with an upper surface of the platform; the platform having at least one second working bench disposed outboard of the plurality of uprights, the motor operatively associated with the at least one second working bench such that the second working bench is selectively movable between the extended position and the retracted position, wherein in the retracted position, an upper surface of the second working bench is substantially flush with an upper surface of the platform; the at least one linear actuator including a support actuator and a safety actuator oriented in parallel, the support actuator operating with the support transition body, the safety actuator such that the safety bar is selectively movable between a nested state and a raised state. , operably associated with the safety bar, the platform providing a recess dimensioned to receive the safety bar in a nested state so that an upper portion of the safety bar is flush with the upper surface of the platform, and comprising a safety transition portion operably associating the safety actuator with the distal end of the safety bar, the safety transition portion having a U-shaped distal end and a loop-shaped proximal end, the support transition portion being loop-shaped, the distal end of the safety bar having a cavity dimensioned to slidably receive the bar support such that the bar support is at least substantially received within the cavity when the safety transition portion and the support transition portion are at a common height relative to the platform, each bar support having a basket and a basket latch connected to the basket so as to pivot between a closed position and an open position, the safety bar having a notch, each notch having a notch latch connected to the notch so as to pivot between a closed position and an open position, and a plurality of cross members interconnecting the distal ends of the plurality of uprights, having motors disposed on the cross members, a plurality of cameras, and at least one computer connected to the plurality of uprights or the plurality of cross members.

[0016] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the lifting rack system includes second actuating benches, each second actuating bench operatively associated with a bench actuator for selective movement through a plurality of tilt orientations, and the upper surface of the second actuating bench is lockable at each tilt orientation defining an angle of incidence relative to the platform, the angle of incidence selectively ranging between zero and 40 degrees.

[0017] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a lifting rack system includes: a platform; and at least one image capture device coupled to at least one computer operatively associated with the lifting rack system, the at least one computer configured to provide feedback regarding a user performing an exercise utilizing the lifting rack system, the feedback being a wireframe model of the user performing the exercise, the wireframe model including a plurality of nodes, each node representing a body part of the user, the at least one computer configured to determine one or more reference angles between each body part performing the exercise and the platform, and further comprising: a plurality of uprights supported by the platform, at least one linear actuator housed in each upright, a motor driving each linear actuator, and for each upright, The fitness tool includes an interface extending along the length of the body, a support transition portion operably associating the bar supports with at least one linear actuator for each linear actuator such that the bar supports can be selectively moved along the interface, and the fitness tool operably associated with the one or more bar supports, the computer configured to access a database of exercise routines and selectively activate a motor to move the at least one linear actuator based in part on a first comparison between the database and the wireframe model, and further includes an actuation bench disposed between the plurality of uprights, the motor operably associated with the actuation bench such that the actuation bench can be selectively moved between an extended position and a retracted position, and the computer configured to selectively activate the motor to move the actuation bench based in part on a second comparison between the database and the wireframe model.

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description, and claims. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention showing the placement of the central operating bench and safety bar. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention showing a side actuation bench arrangement. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, with portions cut away for clarity. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a detailed view of 4A. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is a detailed view of 4A. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a top view, partially cut away for clarity, of an exemplary embodiment of a cross member of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a detailed cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention taken along line 6-6 of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a detailed cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention taken along line 7-7 of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 3, showing the arrangement of the tilt function of the side-actuated bench, with portions removed for clarity. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention showing a digital image of a user. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention showing a wireframe superimposed over the digital image of the user of FIG. 10A. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention showing the wireframe of FIG. 10B used in the analysis. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 2, showing the layout of the central operating bench, with parts removed for clarity. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The following detailed description is of the best presently contemplated modes for carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention. This description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, since the scope of the invention is best defined by the appended claims.

[0021] 1-13, below is an itemized list of reference numbers for the figures. Any assumptions and naming conventions used in the following references to the present embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limiting, but rather to assist the reader in understanding the best currently contemplated mode for carrying out exemplary embodiments of the invention.

[0022] 20: Motorized lift rack system (or "system"), 30: Platform, 40: Side actuation bench, 50: Central bench, 55: Adjustable bench, 60: Frame, 62A-62D: Uprights, 64A-64D: Cross members, 66: Camera, 68: Computer, 70: Bar support, 70A: Bar support transition, 70B: Actuator, 70C: Worm gear, 70D: Worm screw, 70E: Worm screw shaft, 70F: Drive shaft, 71: Bar support latch, 72: Basket, 73: Interface, 74: Motor, 80: Safety bar, 80A: Safety bar transition , 80B: actuator, 80C: umbrella worm gear, 80D: worm screw, 80E: worm screw shaft, 80F: drive shaft, 80G: umbrella gear, 80H: umbrella gear shaft, 80I: umbrella gear, 80J: actuator, 80K: safety bar transition portion, 81: safety bar latch, 82: safety bar notch, 83A-B: interface, 84: motor, 86: safety bar cavity portion, 88: safety bar recess, 90: scissor lifting actuator, 100: camera frame, 110: lifter, 112: outer shape, 114: wire model, 116: reference angle, 120: barbell, and 121: weight plate. Furthermore, 80A1-2 are the distal and proximal ends of 80A, 80K1-2 are the distal and proximal ends of 80K, and 70A1-2 are the distal and proximal ends of 70A.

[0023] 1-12, the present invention can include a system 20. System 20 can include a frame 60 having four vertical uprights 62A-62D extending from a platform 30. Four cross members 64A-64D can interconnect the distal ends of the vertical uprights 62A-62D, as shown in FIGS.

[0024] Platform 30 may be sized and adapted to secure vertical uprights 62A-62D along a support surface. Platform 30 may provide safety bar recesses 88 extending between each pair of longitudinal uprights (e.g., 62A and 62C are a pair of longitudinal uprights). Each safety bar recess 88 is sized to receive, in a nested configuration, a respective safety bar 80 operably associated with the pair of vertical uprights. In the nested configuration, the tops of the safety bars 80 are approximately flush with the upper surface of platform 30.

[0025] Each safety bar 80 may provide a safety bar notch 82 for receiving a portion of the barbell 120. A latch 81 may close the top of the safety bar notch 82, thereby preventing the received portion of the barbell 120 from being lifted out of the notch 82. In the nested state, the safety bar notch 82 may occupy a space below the upper surface of the platform 30. Thus, the barbell 120 supported by the platform 30 and / or side working bench 40 may be engaged by the notch 82 when the safety bar 80 moves from the nested state to the raised state between the platform 30 and / or side working bench 40 and the distal end of the associated pair of longitudinal uprights 62A-62C and 62B-62D, respectively.

[0026] The platform 30 may provide a central operating bench 50 disposed between two pairs of longitudinal uprights and adjacent to a first pair of latitudinal uprights (e.g., 62A and 62B are one pair of latitudinal uprights). The central operating bench 50 is movable between a retracted position (see FIG. 1) and an extended position (see FIGS. 2 and 11). In the retracted position, the upper surface of the central operating bench 50 is flush with the upper surface of the platform 30. In the extended position, the central operating bench 50 is adjusted to accommodate a supine user. The central operating bench 50 may include a scissor lift actuator 90 or other actuation mechanism for moving the central operating bench 50 between the retracted and extended positions, the actuation mechanism being driven by the present invention, as shown in FIG. 11. The central operating bench 50 may be adapted to be an adjustable bench 55, as shown in FIG. 9. These adaptations are for seated incline, decline, or flat bench presses or other similar exercises. It is understood that central working bench 50 need not be located between uprights 62A-D (as shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 12). For example, but not limited to, the central working bench 50 may be located on the outer edge of platform 30 between uprights 62A-D, somewhere on system 20 or on a wall-mounted device spaced adjacent to system 20, in a location lowered / raised / pivoted, etc., into position for bench presses or other similar exercises, or in a location that, when stowed, does not interfere with the user's ability to perform other exercises on system 20, etc.

[0027] The platform 30 may provide a side actuation bench 40 located outside each longitudinal upright. Each side actuation bench 40 is movable between a retracted position (see FIG. 1 ) and an extended position (see FIGS. 3 and 8 ). In the retracted position, the upper surface of each side actuation bench 40 is flush with the upper surface of the platform 30. In the extended position, the side actuation bench 40 is adapted to accommodate one or more supine human users. Each side actuation bench 40 may have a scissor lift actuator 90 or other actuation mechanism driven by the system 20 for movement between the retracted and extended positions. The side actuation bench 40 may be adapted to lock in an inclined position, providing an angle of incidence “A” between the upper surface of the bench 40 and the platform 30, as shown in FIG. 8 . The angle of incidence A may also be determined relative to a plane parallel to the platform 30, which is associated with an initial, uninclined orientation / position of the upper portion / surface of the bench, as shown in FIG. 8 . The angle of incidence A can range from zero degrees (parallel to the platform) to any angle imposed by the top of the working bench (which may contact the platform 30 at some point). In some embodiments, the angle of incidence may be 90 degrees or greater based on the topology of the platform and working bench. This is to allow the barbell 120 to roll up and down on the platform 30 to reposition it for other lifts, and to deflect a dropped barbell away from the user.

[0028] Two actuators 80B-J and 70B may be disposed on each vertical upright 62A-62D. The actuators 80B-J and 70B may be vertically oriented and in a parallel relationship to one another so as to extend substantially the length of the respective vertical upright (between the distal and proximal ends, adjacent the platform 30). Each actuator 80B-J and 70B is operatively associated with an actuator interface 83A-B and 73, respectively, along the outer surface of the respective vertical upright, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7. For each pair of vertical uprights, the respective actuator interfaces 83A-B and 73 face one another, as illustrated in FIG. 4A. The actuator interfaces 83A-B and 73 also extend substantially the length of the respective vertical upright.

[0029] In some, but not all, embodiments, actuators 80B-J and 70B may be worm screws, gear jacks with translating nuts, or other forms of linear actuators. In some embodiments, actuator interfaces 83A-B and 73 may be slots in a vertical upright that communicate with the respective gear jacks with worm screws and translating nuts linear actuators. Actuator interfaces 83A-B and 73 may be sized and adapted to receive and operatively associate with transition portions 80A-K and 70A, respectively. Safety transition portion 80K may be U-shaped to receive and slide along safety bar actuator interface 83A, or loop-shaped 80A to receive and slide along safety bar actuator interface 83B. Support transition portion 70A may be loop-shaped to receive and slide along support actuator interface 73. The U-shapes and loop-shaped configurations complement each other, allowing access to the respective actuators 80B-J and 70B spaced apart in a parallel orientation within the same vertical upright. Each transition portion 80A-K and 70A may be received in a respective actuator interface 83A-B and 73 via the distal end of the respective vertical upright.

[0030] Each transition portion 80A / 80K and 70A has a distal end 80A1 / 80K1, 70A1 and a proximal end 80A2 / 80K2, 70A2, respectively. The distal ends 80A1 / 80K1 and 70A1 can have engagement elements, etc., sized and adapted to operatively associate with the respective engagement elements of the actuators 80B-J and 70B. In some embodiments, the actuators 80B-J and 70B are screw actuators, and the distal ends 80A1 / 80K1 and 70A1 can provide a first gear arrangement that engages with a second gear arrangement of the screw actuator such that rotation (clockwise or counterclockwise) of the non-traveling screw actuator moves the transition portion 80A / 80K or 70A linearly up or down the length of the screw actuator. The proximal ends of the transition portions 80A2 / 80K2 and 70A2 are removably or fixedly attached to the safety bar 80 and bar support 70, respectively.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 5, cross members 64A-64D can house within each vertical upright 62A-62D a motor 74 / 84 (electric, pneumatic, etc.) having a worm screw shaft 70E / 80E, a worm screw 70D / 80D, a worm gear 70C, a worm / bevel gear 80C, a bevel gear 80G, an bevel shaft 80H, a bevel gear 80I, and a drive shaft 70F / 80F coupled to actuators 80B-J, 70B to rotate actuators 80B-J and 70B, and thus selectively move transition sections 80A / 80K or 70A, respectively. The present invention contemplates that actuators 80B and 70B (within a shared vertical upright) can be rotated independently of one another. It is understood that other methods of applying force to lift bar support 70 and safety bar 80, such as block-and-tackle pulley systems, hydraulics, counterweights, other jackscrew systems, linear actuators, or belt systems, are contemplated by the present invention. It will be appreciated that the motors 74 / 84, drive shafts 70F / 80F, worm screw shafts 70E / 80E, worm screws 70D / 80D, worm gears 70C, bevel shafts 80H, bevel gears 80G / 80I, and worm / bevel gears 80C need not be housed in cross members 64A-64D, but may be housed in platform 30 as shown in FIG. 9, in uprights 62A-D, or in any combination of locations housed on or within system 20. Additionally, the motors 74 / 84 and drive shafts 70F / 80F may be separate from system 20, or the motors 74 / 84 may be coupled to and directly engage actuators 80B-J, 70B, thereby reducing the number of parts in system 20.

[0032] One embodiment of the present invention may have two motors 74 / 84 that operate the bar support 70 and safety bar 80 relatively and independently of one another. One motor 74 can translate the bar support 70 by engaging a drive shaft 70F, which rotates a worm screw shaft 70E, which rotates a worm screw 70D, which engages a worm gear 70C, which rotates 70B clockwise or counterclockwise, thereby selectively moving (i.e., running) the transition section 70A. One motor 84 can translate safety bar 80 by engaging drive shaft 80F, which rotates worm screw shaft 80E, which rotates worm screw 80D, which engages worm / bevel gear 80C, which rotates bevel gear 80G and bevel shaft 80H clockwise or counterclockwise, which rotates bevel gear 80I clockwise or counterclockwise, engaging the rotation of 80B-J, which in turn can selectively move (i.e., run) respective transitions 80A and 80K, as shown in Figures 4A-C and 5. It will be appreciated that a more complex gearbox system (not shown) can be used in system 20 to allow a single motor to drive actuators 80B-J, 70, or scissor lift actuator 90.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4A , the present invention may embody a bar support 70 connecting to the proximal end of each bar support transition section 70A. The bar support 70 may include, but is not limited to, a J-hook. The bar support 70 defines a basket portion 72 for supporting a portion of the barbell 120. The basket portion 72 has a depth. A basket latch 71 can close the top of the basket portion 72, thereby preventing the receiving portion of the barbell 120 from being lifted out of the basket portion 72. It should be apparent that the bar support 70 does not have to be a J-hook, but can include any structure (e.g., flat, spherical, cylindrical, etc.) that can engage with various fitness equipment (e.g., dumbbells, free weights, resistance bands, etc.) or a portion of the human user themselves. Thus, the bar support 70 may be “universal.” It will further be apparent that safety bar 80 need not be a rectangular bar, but may include any structure (e.g., flat, spherical, cylindrical, etc.) that can engage various fitness equipment (e.g., dumbbells, free weights, resistance bands, etc.), or a portion of the human user themselves, for "assistance" or safety purposes. Thus, safety bar 80 may be "universal."

[0034] The bar support 70 and safety bar 80 are vertically aligned (because they are both connected to the same vertical upright). The distal end of each safety bar 80 may provide a cavity 86 having a depth into which the basket portion 72 may nest. Note that the safety bars 80 do not have to be nested for this to occur. However, if nested, the top of the basket portion 72 may be approximately flush with the top surface of the platform 30 (because the basket portion 72 occupies space within the safety bar 80), but similar to the safety bar notch 82, the basket portion 72 may receive / engage a portion of a barbell 120 supported on the top surface of the platform 30 and / or side actuation bench 40 and / or safety bar 80.

[0035] The uprights 62A-D also serve to stop the barbell 120 if it rolls up or down on the platform 30 and / or side bench 40 and / or safety bar 80, thereby preventing the barbell 120 from rolling off the system 20. The uprights 62A-D, safety bar 80 and side actuation bench 40 may include a synergistic system (along with the camera 66, computer 68, etc., disclosed in detail below) that controls the position of the barbell 120 on the system 20. This system prevents the barbell 120 from rolling off the system 20.

[0036] The actuating side benches 40 and safety bar 80 can also support the lifter if they request to "lift off" or return to the bar support 70. The central bench 50 can be used as a surface to squat on, such as a box for a box squat. When using the system 20 in this manner, the user begins a squat by placing the barbell 120 in the notches 82, which are elevated by the safety bar 80 to the user's height, and actuating the central bench 50 to the appropriate body size for the user to squat. While facing the computer 68, the user lifts the weight from the notches 82 and squats down to the central bench 50. During the squat, the notches 82 are lowered by the safety bar 80 so as not to interfere with the user's squatting down to the central bench 50. The user then squats down to the central bench 50 and stands up, assisted by the safety bar 80 and / or the side actuating benches 40, until the barbell 120 is returned to the notches 82 at the top of the squat.

[0037] Frame 60 supports cameras 66 and electrically connected computers 68 to facilitate command and control of selectively movable safety bars 80, side activation benches 40, central bench 50, adjustable bench 55, and bar supports 70. Computer 68 may have a display and user interface to further enable command and control. For example, computer 68 may be configured to selectively move bar supports 70 based on pixels captured by connected cameras 66 to provide the necessary clearance for barbell 120 relative to a person reclining on central activation bench 50 for a bench press or other similar exercise. By default, latitudinally opposing bar supports 70 remain flush.

[0038] It is understood that camera 66 need not be mounted to uprights 62A-D, cross members 64A-D, or frame 60. Camera 66 may be mounted on its own camera frame 100, as shown in Figure 9, and / or may be mounted separately from system 20. Furthermore, it is understood that computer 68 may be mounted on or within system 20, such as, but not limited to, on camera frame 100 as shown in Figure 9, and / or may be mounted separately from system 20.

[0039] It is understood that there may be a combination of alternative configurations for system 20, including, but not limited to, leaving cross members 64A-D in place and moving the linear actuator motors, shafts, screws, and gears to accommodate them within platform 30 or uprights 62A-D. Additionally, this may include changing the placement of cameras 66, the angle at which cameras 66 look up / down toward lifter or platform 30, where cameras 66 are focused to observe system 20, the placement of camera mounts 100, and the number of cameras 66.

[0040] It is understood that the side actuation bench 40 may be further modified to be recessed below the surface of the platform 30 to allow for weaker exercises such as weaker deadlifts.

[0041] It is understood that the latches on the safety bar notches 81 and bar supports 70 may be further modified to be opened and closed electronically by a computer or other electronic system.

[0042] It is understood that all linear actuation systems described herein can be modified to be fully manual systems driven by a human user.

[0043] It will be appreciated that once barbell 120 is placed on bar support 70 or safety bar notch 82 within basket 72 and secured by latch 71 or 81, respectively, the actuation system disclosed herein can be used to prevent barbell 120 from moving from those positions and / or prevent barbell 120 from rotating while barbell 120 is secured for use as a user-height adjustable pull-up bar. Command and control applications for computer systems

[0044] As shown in FIG. 13 , through the use of the camera 66, the computer 68 can assist the lifter in real-time workout programming, exercise selection, and counting the number of repetitions of a performed movement and verifying that it was properly performed. Through the use of the camera 66, the computer 68 can assist the lifter in loading and unloading the barbell 120. Through the use of the camera 66, the computer 68 can assist in real-time transitions, use, assistance, instruction, and coaching / technique corrections for the following movements and variations with the weighted or unweighted barbell 120, including raising and lowering the weighted or unweighted barbell 120 and repositioning it onto or from the platform 30, side activation bench 40, center bench 50, adjustable bench 55, bar support 70, or safety bar 80: press; bench press; squat; deadlift; clean; jerk; snatch; and variations of these movements.

[0045] The computer 68 can execute voice commands and / or independently set the safety bar 80, bar support 70, central operating bench 50, adjustable bench 55 and side operating bench 40 to different heights based on anthropometric measurements to improve the usability and safety of each lifter.

[0046] The computer 68 can use the camera 66 to assist in providing visual weight verification of the weights 121 and / or barbell 120. Each weight 121 can have a different thickness, diameter, and / or color to indicate which weights 121 are of a certain weight. As shown in FIGS. 10A-C, the computer 68 can use the camera 66 to assist in real-time coaching / technique transitions, use, assistance, guidance, and movement pattern corrections by using the anthropometric body reference angles 116. For example, the angle between the lifter's back 116 and the platform 30 can provide sufficient data as to whether the lifter is properly positioned before initiating a deadlift. The computer 68 can use the camera 66 to "see" the lifter / barbell linked to the computer 68 controlling the system 20 to better assist the lifter. The computer 68 may use the camera 66 to "see" whether the bar latch / lock 71 / 81 is in use and, if used improperly, may help prevent the system 20 from operating to prevent damage to the system 20.

[0047] The cameras 66 can be positioned relative to the frame 60 in the following locations: one in the center of the side; one in the center of the back; two in the center of the side; and one on each side, positioned to capture images of the lifter and barbell 120 over a 360-degree visual range. The cameras 66 can be suspended from a ceiling mount on the frame 60. When suspended from a ceiling mount approximately 9 feet above the surface of the platform 30, the cameras 66 can be positioned approximately 8 feet above the surface of the platform 30. The cameras 66 can be in fixed and / or movable positions. The cameras 66 can be aimed to look down toward the center of the platform 30.

[0048] The computer 68 may be configured to provide logistical support by knowing the weight amount and location of the barbells 120 on the system 20 and on other systems 20 in the network of systems 20, where the computer 68 can minimize queues on the system 20 by telling the lifter where to go next and what weight to use for the current and upcoming lift. For example, if there are multiple systems 20 within a few feet of each other from a user, and each barbell 120 on each system 20 has different / similar weights, the computer 68 can calculate where each person should go and what to do based on the workout and communicate that in real time, reducing queues on the system 20.

[0049] The system 20 can "talk" to the lifter through earphones, speakers, or devices on the frame 60, other software applications, or "smart" devices, over Bluetooth or other wireless communication technology. A system 20 can "talk" to other systems 20 or other "smart" devices over WIFI, LAN, or Bluetooth within the system 20's network.

[0050] System 20 may be LAN, WIFI, and / or Ethernet hardwired and / or connect to the Internet for live coaching by trainers, updates to system 20, and / or to send and receive data to other computers 68, central computers, or data storage and processing systems. System 20 may be pluggable, use batteries or other power storage and retrieval systems, and may have USB outlets, antennas, or receivers. Computer 68 may be configured to track wear on system 20 for engineering updates and distribute wear among systems 20 in the network of systems 20.

[0051] Computer 68 may be configured to provide weight verification for barbell 120 to ensure the lifter is using the correct weight and to prevent incorrect weight application to barbell 120. Computer 68 may also be configured to provide advanced lifting support by applying opposing forces to barbell 120 to reduce the perceived load on barbell 120. For example, barbell 120 may weigh 45 pounds, but the lifter may only be able to bench press 35 pounds. Therefore, via linear actuators 80B-J for safety bar 80 and / or actuator 90 for side-actuated bench 40, an upward force of 10 pounds may be applied to make barbell 120 "weigh" 35 pounds.

[0052] Computer 68 may be configured to enable the use of more advanced lifting techniques, such as eccentric overload training. For example, a lifter may load barbell 120 with a 315 pound weight for a bench press, but may only be able to bench press 300 pounds. The lifter may be able to lower the 315 pounds, but when pushing the weight back up, system 20, via linear actuators 80B-J for safety bar 80 and / or side-actuated actuator 90 for side-actuated bench 40, may provide the 15 pounds or more of force needed to help the lifter lift the weight.

[0053] The computer 68 may be configured to selectively move and lock the central actuation bench 50, the side actuation benches 40, the adjustable benches 55, the bar supports 70, and the safety bars 80 to assist the lifter during concentric, eccentric, or isometric weightlifting regimens.

[0054] The computer 68 may facilitate a tilt function for the side working bench 40, which may be used to reposition the barbell 120 along the platform 30, side working bench 40, or safety bar 80, as shown in FIG. 8 . Tilting the side working bench 40 clockwise or counterclockwise will cause the barbell 120 to rotate in that direction, whether the barbell 120 is loaded or unloaded. This tilt function may be controlled by the computer 68 knowing the degree of tilt of the side working bench 40. The degree of tilt may be changed by using one of the actuators to raise or lower one portion of the side working bench 40 relative to another portion of the side working bench 40. The computer 68 may know the position of the barbell 120 through the use of the camera 66 and may tilt the side working bench 40 through the use of the actuator 90 to control the position of the barbell 120. Each platform portion or associated bench 40 may have individual tilt control to more precisely control the rolling position of the barbell 120. Similarly, the platform 30 and side actuation bench 40 may help to "catch" or "absorb" a dropped barbell 120, dampening the sound and preventing the barbell 120 from bouncing back or towards the lifter.

[0055] The basket latch 71 and notch latch 81 can be manually controlled by lifters, and their securement can be visually confirmed using the camera 66 and the display of the computer 68. The computer 68 can verify the use of the basket latch 71 and notch latch 81 via the camera 66 to prevent damage to the system 20 due to improper use.

[0056] Computer 68 may control all motors and actuators in system 20 and camera 66. Computer 68 may also process data and relay data to other machines, computers, devices, or a central computer in the network. Computer 68 may collect data in real time for each lifter regarding the weight used, the exercises performed, the time spent loading / unloading the barbell, rest periods, and the time spent on each lift, including warm-up and work sets, as well as the positioning of the equipment on system 20 while system 20 is in use. Computer 68 may also collect data regarding the time each lifter waits and the time spent entering, exiting, and preparing for a lift, or any other data desired by trainers, researchers, or the users themselves.

[0057] The safety bar 80 with the notches 82 can give the system 20 the ability to function as a monolift. For example, suppose a lifter wishes to squat 225 pounds using the monolift function. While the barbell 120 is positioned within the notches 82, the lifter would weight the barbell 120 with 225 pounds. The lifter would then position the barbell 120 where needed for the squat, then begin the squat by standing up and moving the barbell out of the notches 82. The safety bar 80, controlled by the camera 66 and computer 68 system, can lower the notches 82, allowing the user to squat without moving their feet to a new position. Then, at the bottom of the squat repetition, the safety bar 80 and notches 82 can be raised by the camera 66 and computer 68 system so that the lifter can return the weight to the notches 82 at the end of the repetition.

[0058] The safety bar 80 and the side actuation bench 40 may complement each other. They may provide greater lifting force and various ways to assist / assist the lifter. The safety bar 80 may provide a "track" when elevated slightly higher than the platform 30 or the side actuation bench 40, thereby preventing the barbell 120 from rolling off the system 20.

[0059] Self-locking worm screw and gear linear actuators 70B and 80B-J may be used on uprights 62A-D and actuators 90 so that the heights of bar support 70, safety bar 80, side actuation bench 40, center bench 50, and adjustable bench 50 are simultaneously self-locked. This makes the system safer against power loss and dropped weights on components, and extends the life of the motors 74 / 84 and actuators 90 that drive system 20 by reducing stress on the motors 74 / 84 and actuators 90 when loads are moved, lifted, lowered, or dropped on system 20.

[0060] The computer 68 and camera 66 system uses the lifter's anthropometry, based on an approximation of the user's body, to determine the correct reference angles and distances between joints and other parts of the human body for the lifter to configure themselves to lift a barbell 120, other weight, or device. As shown in Figures 10A-C, the camera 66 photographs the lifter 110, and the computer 68 analyzes the image and simplifies it into an outline 112 and a wire model 114, which can then be used to guide the user in proper technique for lifting a barbell 120 or using other fitness tools. The points in Figure 10B are numbered to show a simple example of where some key positions / nodes are located for calculating reference angles and proper technique, rather than all positions on the human body. Nodes 1 and 2 represent the positions of the cervical vertebrae C1 and C7, respectively. The remaining numbers are odd numbers, as viewed from the right, representing the user's right side. Even numbers, not shown, represent the same positions on the left side. For example, node 3 is the right shoulder joint, node 4 is the left shoulder joint, node 5 is the right elbow, and node 6 is the left elbow. Node 7 is the right wrist, node 9 is the center of the right hand, node 11 is the right hip, node 13 is the right knee, node 15 is the right ankle, node 17 is the right heel, and node 19 is the right toe. The computer 68 and camera 66 system approximates these positions, determines the distances between them, and ultimately calculates the reference angles and the lifter's anthropometry in real time to perform the lift using proper technique.

[0061] The present invention contemplates a database of wireframe model exercise routines to which computer 68 can compare imaged wireframe models to determine proper or improper positioning of one or more of the user's body parts.

[0062] Voice commands to the user by the computer 68 may be in the user's voice, a generic "robot" voice, or other voices such as, but not limited to, a trainer or celebrity.

[0063] The camera 66 and computer 68 system can record a trainer's or user's movements during a workout in real time, allowing other users to perform the workout in real time on their own system 20 for local or remote training. The system 20 can provide real-time coaching to the user on a workout routine.

[0064] The camera 66 and computer 68 system can recognize other fitness tools, such as dumbbells, stationary bikes, row machines, jump ropes, or other fitness tools, and train users how to use them in the same way that they train users how to lift barbells 120. This includes bodyweight training.

[0065] The camera 66 and computer 68 system can "assist" the user through visual cues. For example, if the system 20 is configured for a user to perform a bench press and the safety bar 80 and / or side actuation benches 40 are raised to a position slightly below the user on the central bench 50 in case the barbell 120 falls, they may raise and contact the barbell 120 rather than the user. For example, if the user sits down on the central bench 50 and removes the barbell 120 from the bar supports 70, the computer 68 and camera 66 system can recognize that the initial movement and position is the start and end of the movement. The computer 68 can recognize that the barbell 120 will touch the user's chest at the bottom of the movement before pushing the barbell 120 back down to its initial position because the computer 68 has a database of exercises and knows what to expect for that lift or another lift or exercise. If the user intentionally drops the barbell 120 while performing the bench press due to injury, muscle insufficiency, an inability to press the weight against their chest, muscle insufficiency during another part of the exercise, or other reasons, the camera 66 and computer 68 can "understand" this and react, raising the safety bar 80 and / or side-actuated bench 40 to contact the barbell 120 and assist the user in returning the weight to the bar support 70. This process is very similar to how a human user "assists" another lifter using visual cues, body language, or voice commands. This includes the user instructing the system 20 to assist the lifter using a voice command such as "help me" or body language such as shaking their head to indicate "no." This assist process is not limited to the bench press but applies to any exercise where the safety bar 80 and / or side-actuated bench 40 are needed to "assist" the user.

[0066] It is understood that the present invention may take into account user limitations, such as, but not limited to, range of motion and past or present injuries, for training purposes when training a user. It is understood that system 20 "knows" when barbell 120 is trapped between bar support 70 and safety bar 80 and can prevent damage to system 20. It is understood that system 20's priority will be the health of the user over damage to system 20.

[0067] Platform, Bar Support, and Safety Bar Specifications

[0068] The following dimensions and specifications of system 20 are provided to allow the reader to roughly grasp the relative size of system 20. Many aspects of system 20 may be varied. System 20 may be significantly larger or smaller than specified. The dimensions of the base of platform 30 are approximately 8 feet wide and 9 feet long, and the height of the base is determined by the space required for the scissor lift and motor / actuator, drive shaft, support truss or other actuation equipment for scissor lift actuator 90, but overall, the ceiling (tops of cross members 64A-D) may be approximately 9 feet above the surface of platform 30.

[0069] The support surface of the central operating bench 50 is approximately 10 inches wide and approximately 48 inches long. The operating bench 50 may extend approximately 20 inches above the platform 30. The side operating benches 40 are elevated approximately 5 feet from the platform 30 and have support surfaces that are approximately 28 inches wide and 104 inches long.

[0070] The longitudinal spacing between the vertical uprights may be approximately 100 inches. The latitudinal spacing between the vertical uprights may be approximately 48.5 inches. The length of the vertical uprights 62A-62D may be approximately 9 feet. The safety bar 80 may be approximately 2 inches wide and 96 inches long. The notch 82 may be approximately mid-way along the safety bar 80.

[0071] The motors 74 / 84, actuators 90, worm gears 70C, worm screws 70D / 80D, bevel gears 80G / 80I, worm / bevel gears 80C, drive shafts 70F / 80F, worm screw shafts 70E / 80E, bevel shaft 80H, and linkages may be housed within platform 30 or redesigned for location within uprights 62A-62D. It is understood that motors 74 / 84 and drive shafts 70F / 80F may be remote from system 20. Wiring for camera 66 and computer 68 may be within cross members 64A-64D as well as vertical uprights 62A-62D, or within platform 30.

[0072] System 20 may have a terminal that allows the lifter to manually control aspects of system 20. The terminal may be located on the outward-facing side of one of the vertical uprights approximately 5 feet away from platform 30.

[0073] A method of using the present invention may include the following: The disclosed system 20 may be provided. A lifter places the barbell 120 on the bar support 70 within the basket 72 without adding additional weight to the barbell 120. The barbell 120 is secured by the basket latch 71 so that the barbell 120 does not come off the bar support 70 when adjusting the height of the barbell 120 or when loading weights onto the barbell 120 by operating the linear actuator 70B via the command and control function of the computer 68. To adjust the height of the barbell 120, a user may selectively operate the motor 74 as appropriate. After adjusting the height of the barbell 120 and loading weights onto the barbell 120, the basket latch 71 may be transitioned to an unlocked state to allow the lifter to lift the weights. Additionally, the lifter (user) can utilize the cavity 86 occupied by the basket portion 72 of the bar support 70 and the nested position of the safety bar 80 to lift the barbell 120 supported by the platform 30 and / or side actuation bench 40 via the actuation bar support 70.

[0074] As used in this application, the terms "about" or "approximately" refer to a range of values ​​within plus or minus 10% of the specified numerical value. Additionally, "substantially" refers to 90% or greater of the total. The recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is not intended to be limiting and, unless otherwise indicated, refers individually to every value within that range, and each individual value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually set forth herein. Terms such as "about," "approximately," and the like, when accompanied by numerical values, are to be interpreted as indicating a deviation that would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to be sufficient for the intended purpose. Value ranges and / or numerical values ​​are provided herein as examples only and do not limit the scope of the described embodiments. Any examples provided herein, or the use of illustrative language (such as "for example," "etc.", etc.), are merely intended to better describe the embodiments and do not impose limitations on the embodiments or the scope of the claims. No language in this specification should be construed as indicating that any element outside the claims is essential to the practice of the disclosed embodiments.

[0075] In the following description, terms such as "first," "second," "upper," "lower," "above," and "below" are used for convenience and should not be construed as limiting terms unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0076] Of course, it will be understood that the foregoing relates to exemplary embodiments of the present invention and that modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A plurality of upright bodies; at least one second operating bench; a motor for driving the second operating bench; A platform and a proximal end of each upright connected to the platform; the platform includes the second operating bench located outside the plurality of uprights; the motor is operatively associated with the second actuation bench such that the second actuation bench can be selectively moved between an extended position and a retracted position; In the retracted position, the upper surface of the second operating bench is substantially flush with the upper surface of the platform.

2. the platform includes a first operating bench disposed between the plurality of uprights; the motor is operatively associated with the first actuation bench such that the first actuation bench can be selectively moved between an extended position and a retracted position; The lift rack system of claim 1 , wherein in the retracted position, the top surface of the first working bench is substantially flush with the top surface of the platform.

3. A safety bar; for each upright, an interface extending along the length of the upright; at least one linear actuator housed in each upright; a support transition for each linear actuator operatively associating the bar support with the linear actuator such that the bar support can selectively move along the interface; the at least one linear actuator includes a support actuator and a safety actuator oriented in parallel; the support actuator operates in conjunction with the support transition; The lift rack system of claim 1 , wherein the safety actuator is operatively associated with the safety bar such that the safety bar is selectively movable between a nested position and a raised position.

4. 4. The lift rack system of claim 3, wherein the platform provides a recess sized to receive the safety bar in the nested position such that an upper portion of the safety bar is flush with an upper surface of the platform.

5. The lift rack system of claim 4 , further comprising a safety transition operatively associating the safety actuator with a distal end of the safety bar.

6. the safety transition is U-shaped; The lift rack system of claim 5 , wherein the support transition is loop-shaped.

7. 6. The lift rack system of claim 5, wherein the distal end of the safety bar is provided with a cavity sized to slidably receive the bar support, and the bar support is at least substantially received within the cavity when the safety transition portion and the support transition portion are at a common height relative to the platform.

8. the bar support has a basket; The lift rack system of claim 4 , further comprising a basket latch connected to the basket for pivotal movement between a closed position and an open position.

9. The safety bar has a notch; 9. The lift rack system of claim 8, wherein each notch has a notch latch connected thereto for pivotal movement between a closed position and an open position.

10. a plurality of cross members interconnecting respective distal ends of the plurality of uprights; The lift rack system of claim 9 further comprising: a motor disposed within the cross member.

11. Multiple cameras and The lift rack system of claim 10, further comprising at least one computer connected to the plurality of uprights or the plurality of cross members.

12. The second actuating bench is operably associated with a bench actuator so as to be selectively movable across a plurality of tilt orientations; the upper surface of the second operating bench is lockable at various tilt orientations that define an angle of incidence relative to the platform; The lift rack system of claim 1 , wherein the angle of incidence is in a selected range between 0 degrees and 40 degrees.

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