A motion device having a rotatable cam

Abstract

A coupling mechanism for a motion device is disclosed. The coupling mechanism may include a resistance source connected to a housing, a rod connected to the resistance source, a clevis connected to the rod, and a cam rotatably connected to the clevis about an axis. The cam may include a curved outer surface having a first channel and a curved inner surface having a second channel and a third channel. The coupling mechanism may also include a cable key and several cables connected to the cam.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 500,564, filed May 5, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to exercise devices, and more particularly to an adjustable exercise device featuring a rotatable cam.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] For purposes of summarizing the present disclosure and the advantages achieved over the prior art, specific objects and advantages of the present disclosure are set forth herein. Not all such objects or advantages may be achieved in any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be embodied or implemented without necessarily achieving one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein, or optimizing one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein, without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages that may be taught or suggested herein.

[0005] In some aspects, the technology described herein is a linkage mechanism for an exercise device, comprising a resistance source rotatably coupled to a housing, a rod coupled to the resistance source, a clevis coupled to the rod, a cam rotatably coupled to the clevis about an axis, the cam having a curved outer surface with a first channel and a curved inner surface with a second channel and a third channel, a first cable having one end thereof coupled to one or more resistance engagement portions and the other end thereof connected to the cam, and a second cable and a third cable having one end thereof coupled to the housing and the other end thereof coupled to the cam.

[0006] ​In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism further comprising a cable key for connecting a first cable, a second cable, and a third cable to a cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the curved outer surface is greater than the curved inner surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the curvature of the curved inner surface and the curvature of the curved outer surface are discontinuous. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the axis is not concentric with the curved inner surface and the curved outer surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the axis is located off-center from the center of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved outer surface is greater than the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved inner surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the horizontal distance between the first cable, the second cable, and the third cable remains constant as the cam rotates around its axis, rotates around the coupling between the resistance source and the housing, and moves toward the resistance source. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which a first cable is located in a first channel and is wound around the curved outer surface of a cam when the cam is in a neutral position. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which a second cable and a third cable are located in a second channel and a third channel, respectively, and are wound around the curved inner surface of a cam when the cam is in a rotational position. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further relates to a coupling mechanism that includes a pulley assembly connecting the first cable to one or more resistive engagement parts. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the curved outer surface and the first channel pass between the second cable and the third cable as the cam rotates and moves. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the force exerted on the first cable remains constant as the cam rotates and moves. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the cable remains vertically oriented as the cam rotates and moves.

[0007] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam rotatably mounted on a resistance unit of a motion device, comprising: a first arc-shaped portion including a first cable channel; a second arc-shaped portion including a second cable channel and a third cable channel, wherein the second arc-shaped portion is located opposite the first arc-shaped portion; and an opening arranged such that the distance between the tangent to the first cable channel and the tangents to the second and third cable channels remains constant when the cam rotates from a first position to a second position.

[0008] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the opening is offset from the center of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further includes a rectangular notch between a first arcuate portion and a second arcuate portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further includes another notch between the first arcuate portion and the second arcuate portion, located on the opposite side of the rectangular notch. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further includes a screw hole extending through the first arcuate portion and located adjacent to the rectangular notch. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the second cable channel and the third cable channel are spaced apart. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the width of the first arcuate portion is smaller than the width of the second arcuate portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the non-constant radius of the second arcuate portion is, on average, smaller than the non-constant radius of the first arcuate portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam further including a raised surface surrounding an opening. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam that moves further vertically and horizontally to reach a second position. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface are oriented in the direction of an external force acting on the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface are oriented vertically. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface remain oriented parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the horizontal positions of the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface do not change as the cam rotates and moves.

[0009] In some embodiments, the technique described herein is a method for transmitting force from a resistance unit to a pulley assembly, comprising: applying a force adjacent to the outer surface of a cam; rotating the cam in a first direction about a first axis in response to the force; moving the cam toward the resistance unit in response to the force; rotating the resistance unit in a second direction about a second axis in response to the force; reducing the force applied to the cam; rotating the cam in a second direction about the first axis in response to the reduction in the force; moving the cam away from the resistance unit in response to the reduction in the force; and rotating the resistance unit in a first direction in response to the reduction in the force.

[0010] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for rotating a cam by 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for rotating a cam by more than 90 degrees but less than 270 degrees. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for rotating a cam by less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the first direction is clockwise. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the second direction is counterclockwise. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the direction of the applied force does not change. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the magnitude of the applied force does not change.

[0011] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism for a moving device, comprising: a resistance source rotatably connected to a housing; a rod connected to the resistance source and configured to vibrate linearly; a clevis connected to the rod; a cam rotatably connected to the clevis about an axis, the cam having a curved outer surface and a curved inner surface located opposite to the curved outer surface; one or more tension members connected to the cam and positioned on the curved outer surface, wherein a first portion of the one or more tension members extends tangentially adjacent to the curved outer surface and away from the cam, and a second portion of the one or more tension members extends tangentially adjacent to the curved inner surface and away from the cam; an anchor attached to the housing and connected to the second portion of the one or more tension members; and a movable resistance engaging portion connected to the first portion of the one or more tension members.

[0012] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the curvature of the curved inner surface and the curvature of the curved outer surface are discontinuous. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the axis is not concentric with the curved inner surface and the curved outer surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the axis is positioned off-center from the center of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved outer surface is, on average, greater than the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved inner surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the horizontal distance between a first and second portion of one or more tension members extending tangentially adjacent to the cam remains constant as the cam rotates around its axis, rotates around the coupling between the resistance source and the housing, and moves toward the resistance source. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further relates to a coupling mechanism comprising a pulley assembly connecting the first portion of one or more tension members to a movable resistance engagement portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which one or more tension members comprise a first belt or cable. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which a first belt is fixed to a cam between a curved inner surface and a curved outer surface. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a second belt, wherein the first belt is fixed to a cam and pulley assembly, and the first belt is partially positioned on the curved outer surface of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the second belt is fixed to a cam and anchor, and the second belt is partially positioned on the curved inner surface of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the first and second parts of one or more tension members are oriented parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the first and second parts of one or more tension members do not change orientation when the cam rotates and moves. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the first and second parts of one or more tension members are oriented vertically.In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a coupling mechanism in which the force exerted on a first portion of one or more tension members remains constant as a cam rotates and moves.

[0013] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam for a moving device, comprising: a first arc-shaped portion including an outer surface; a second arc-shaped portion including an inner surface and located opposite the first arc-shaped portion, wherein the first and second arc-shaped portions have non-constant radii; and an opening located between the inner surface and the outer surface such that the distance between the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface is constant regardless of the orientation and movement of the cam.

[0014] In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises two cylindrical notches positioned adjacent to each other and located between a first arcuate portion and a second arcuate portion, the notches configured to provide anchor points for attaching one or more belts to the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a wedge configured to be attached to the first and second arcuate portions, the wedge positioned adjacent to the two cylindrical notches, and the wedge for securing one or more belts to the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a plate and a plurality of fasteners configured to secure the wedge to the first and second portions. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a receiving notch positioned between the first and second arcuate portions, the receiving notch configured to receive a belt and a portion of a clamp. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam further comprising a plate notch positioned adjacent to a receiving notch, wherein the plate notch is configured to receive a second portion of a clamp, and the first and second portions of the clamp are fastened together via one or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a cam comprising one or more notches positioned in a first or second arc-shaped portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the second arc-shaped portion is smaller than the first arc-shaped portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the opening is offset from the center of the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents are oriented parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface are oriented in the direction of an external force acting on the cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface are oriented perpendicularly. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a cam in which the horizontal positions of the tangents to the inner surface and the tangents to the outer surface do not change as the cam rotates and moves.

[0015] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device for locking a portion of a belt, comprising: an upper semi-cylindrical portion having a curved edge; a lower semi-cylindrical portion having a chamfered edge, wherein the lower portion and the upper portion are joined to form a cylindrical shape, and a gap is formed between the upper portion and the lower portion to accommodate the belt, the gap forming a curved opening between the curved edge and the chamfered edge; a fastener for fixing the upper portion and the lower portion to the belt.

[0016] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a first through-hole, and the lower semi-cylindrical portion comprises a second through-hole through which a fastener extends. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the first through-hole is stepped. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a hexagonal notch extending axially. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises one or more bolt channels extending axially. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper cylindrical portion and the lower cylindrical portion each comprise one or more teeth extending into a gap. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the teeth of the upper cylindrical portion are offset from the teeth of the lower cylindrical portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper cylindrical portion comprises three teeth and the lower cylindrical portion comprises four teeth. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper cylindrical portion and the lower cylindrical portion each have fewer than 10 teeth. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the belt curves tangentially away from the inlet adjacent to the lower semi-cylindrical portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the belt is wound around the lower semi-cylindrical portion and the upper cylindrical portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the belt is wound at least 1 and 1 / 4 times around the lower semi-cylindrical portion and the upper cylindrical portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the radius of the connected lower semi-cylindrical portion and upper cylindrical portion is 3 / 4 inch. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper portion is smaller than the lower portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the upper semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a flanged edge opposite the curved edge. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a concave edge opposite the chamfered edge. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which flange edges and concave edges come into contact when a lower portion and an upper portion are joined together.

[0017] In some embodiments, the technique described herein is a method for securing a belt within an exercise device, comprising: clamping a first end of the belt between an upper semi-cylindrical clamp and a lower semi-cylindrical clamp; fastening the upper semi-cylindrical clamp and the lower semi-cylindrical clamp to each other; tightening fasteners to increase the clamping force applied to the belt; wrapping the belt around the outer surface of the semi-cylindrical clamp; securing a second end of the belt to a mechanism of the training device; and fastening the lower semi-cylindrical clamp to another mechanism of the training device using one or more fasteners.

[0018] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which an upper semi-cylindrical clamp and a lower semi-cylindrical clamp have one or more through holes. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which threads are formed in the through holes of the lower semi-cylindrical clamp. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further includes inserting a fastener through the through holes with a belt. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which the mechanism is a second upper cylindrical clamp and a second lower cylindrical clamp. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which the mechanism is one or more of a cam or a pulley. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which the mechanism is one or more of a cam or a tension bolt. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method by which a belt is wrapped around a semi-cylindrical clamp one and a quarter times. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further includes rotating the clamp to adjust the number of turns through the hexagonal through hole of the lower semi-cylindrical clamp.

[0019] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt-pulley device comprising one or more pulleys, a pulley housing attached to the one or more pulleys, a clamping member attached to the pulley housing, the clamping member having a tapered opening, two wedges disposed within the opening, each wedge having a flange portion extending from the opening and resting on the upper part of the clamping member, and a tapered portion disposed within the opening, and a belt fixed between the two wedges.

[0020] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt pulley device in which two wedges further comprise one or more teeth for gripping a belt. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt pulley device in which one or more teeth are offset. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt pulley device in which each wedge comprises four teeth. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt pulley device in which each wedge comprises fewer than 10 teeth. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises a backstop mounted on a pulley housing and located opposite the clamping portion. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a belt pulley device in which the shape of the tapered opening is rectangular.

[0021] In some embodiments, the technique described herein is a method for securing a belt to a pulley, comprising passing the belt through an opening in a clamping holder in a first direction, clamping the belt between two wedges, and inserting the belt and the two wedges into the opening in the clamping holder in a second direction to secure the belt and the wedges in a predetermined position, wherein the wedges exert a clamping force on the belt, and exert force on the belt in the second direction to increase the clamping force on the belt.

[0022] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for fixing a clamp holder to a pulley assembly. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for fixing a belt to a cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for having a tapered opening and wedge. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for having a wedge having a flange portion located outside the opening. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method for having a belt clamp having teeth that contact a belt.

[0023] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device for securing a cable to a cam, comprising: a first portion which is inserted into a notch in the cam and has two cable slots for holding two cables inserted from a first direction; a second portion which extends directly above the first portion and has an elongated cable slot for holding another cable inserted from a second direction; and two support walls which extend downward from the second portion and are spaced apart to accommodate a portion of the cam.

[0024] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device having two cable slots and an elongated cable slot having a wide portion and a narrow portion for inserting and securing a ball-end cable. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device having a second portion further comprising a through hole extending perpendicular to the elongated slot, with two support walls traversed by another through hole. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which a fastener is inserted into the through hole to prevent the ball-end cable from coming out of the elongated cable slot. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which a fastener is inserted into another through hole to secure the two support walls to a cam. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the first portion is similar in shape to a flat rectangle. In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device in which the second portion is similar in shape to an elongated rectangle.

[0025] In some embodiments, the technique described herein is a method for securing a cable to a cam, comprising: inserting two ball-end cables into two adjacent slots of a first portion of a cable key from a first direction; inserting another ball-end cable into an elongated slot of a second portion of the cable key from a second direction; inserting the first portion into a notch of the cam; and positioning the portion of the cam to fit between two side walls extending from the second portion of the cable key.

[0026] In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises fastening a cable key to a cam through through holes located in two side walls. In some embodiments, the technology described herein further comprises fastening a screw through a second through hole located in a second portion for securing another ball cable to an elongated slot. In some embodiments, the technology described herein comprises a method in which the first portion resembles a flat rectangular shape. In some embodiments, the technology described herein comprises a method in which the second portion resembles an elongated rectangular shape.

[0027] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a device for clamping a belt to a cam, comprising: a first portion having a curved surface; a second portion positioned adjacent to the first portion, wherein the upper surface of the second portion has substantially the same curvature as the curved surface, and the upper surface and the curved surface are configured to clamp the belt; and a third portion positioned adjacent to the second portion, wherein the third portion and the second portion are configured to clamp the cam, the first portion, the second portion and the third portion being fastened to the cam.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which threads are formed in one or more of one or more through holes. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which one or more through holes of a semi-cylindrical portion are stepped. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus further comprising one or more teeth protruding from a curved surface. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus further comprising one or more teeth protruding from an upper surface. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which the teeth of the curved surface are offset from the teeth of the upper surface. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which the number of teeth is greater than 1 and less than 10. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which the shape of the first portion is semi-cylindrical. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which the shape of the second portion is arcuate. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which the third portion is similar to a plate. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to an apparatus in which each of the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion comprises one or more through holes, whereby one or more fasteners extend therethrough.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of clamping a belt to a cam, the method comprising inserting a third portion into a first notch of the cam, inserting a second portion into a second notch disposed adjacent to the first notch, the second notch being disposed at an outer edge of the cam, positioning the belt along an outer surface of the cam and an upper surface of the second portion, positioning a first portion above the second portion and over the belt, and fastening together the first portion, the second portion, the third portion, the belt, and the cam.

[0030] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of fastening together a first part, a second part, a third part, a belt, and a cam, including aligning one or more through-holes of the first part, the second part, and the third part, and inserting a fastener into the through-holes. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which a thread is formed in one or more of the one or more through-holes. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which one or more through-holes of a semi-cylindrical plate are stepped. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method further comprising one or more teeth protruding from a semi-cylindrical plate. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method further comprising one or more teeth protruding from an arcuate plate. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the teeth of the semi-cylindrical plate and the arcuate plate are offset. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the number of teeth is greater than 1 and less than 10. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the shape of the first part is semi-cylindrical. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the shape of the second part is arcuate. In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method in which the third part is similar to a plate.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exercise device according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a rear view of an exercise device according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a rear view of an exercise device with the rear panel removed according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism according to some embodiments. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism without a resistance source and a rod according to some embodiments. [Figure 6A]Figure 6A is a rear cross-sectional view of a coupling mechanism in the neutral position according to several embodiments. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a rear cross-sectional view of a coupling mechanism in a rotating position according to several embodiments. [Figure 7A] Figure 7A is a rear view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 7B] Figure 7B is a front view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 7C] Figure 7C is a rear cross-sectional view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a perspective view of a belt lock according to several embodiments. [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a rear view of a belt lock according to several embodiments. [Figure 8C] Figure 8C is a front view of a belt lock according to several embodiments. [Figure 8D] Figure 8D is a rear cross-sectional view of a belt lock according to several embodiments. [Figure 8E] Figure 8E is a rear cross-sectional view of a belt lock attached to a belt, according to several embodiments. [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a perspective view of a lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a rear view of the lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 9C] Figure 9C is a front view of the lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 9D] Figure 9D is a cross-sectional view of a lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 9E] Figure 9E is a cross-sectional view of a lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a rear view of one embodiment of a motion device in which the back panel has been removed, according to several embodiments. [Figure 11]Figure 11 is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism according to several embodiments. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism without a resistance source and rod, according to several embodiments. [Figure 13A] Figure 13A is a rear view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 13B] Figure 13B is a left side view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 13C] Figure 13C is a right side view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 13D] Figure 13D is a top view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 13E] Figure 13E is a bottom view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 14A] Figure 14A is a perspective view of a cable key according to several embodiments. [Figure 14B] Figure 14B is a right side view of a cable key according to several embodiments. [Figure 14C] Figure 14C is a left side view of a cable key according to several embodiments. [Figure 14D] Figure 14D is a rear view of a cable key according to several embodiments. [Figure 14E] Figure 14E is an enlarged perspective view of a cable key attached to a cam, according to several embodiments. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a lower pulley assembly according to several embodiments. [Figure 16A] Figure 16A is a rear view of a coupling mechanism in the neutral position according to several embodiments. [Figure 16B] Figure 16B is a rear view of a coupling mechanism in a rotating position according to several embodiments. [Figure 16C] Figure 16C is a rear view of a coupling mechanism in a further rotational position according to several embodiments. [Figure 16D]Figure 16D is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism in a further rotational position according to several embodiments. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a coupling mechanism according to several embodiments. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism without a resistance source and rod, according to several embodiments. [Figure 19A] Figure 19A is a rear view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 19B] Figure 19B is a left side view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 19C] Figure 19C is a right side view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 19D] Figure 19D is a top view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 19E] Figure 19E is a bottom view of a cam according to several embodiments. [Figure 20A] Figure 20A is a perspective view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20B] Figure 20B is a rear view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20C] Figure 20C is a front view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20D] Figure 20D is a left side view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20E] Figure 20E is a right side view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20F] Figure 20F is a top view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20G] Figure 20G is a bottom view of a circular belt clamp device according to several embodiments. [Figure 20H] Figure 20H is an enlarged perspective view of a round belt clamp device mounted on a cam, according to several embodiments. [Figure 21A]Figure 21A is a rear view of a coupling mechanism in a neutral position according to several embodiments. [Figure 21B] Figure 21B is a rear view of a coupling mechanism in a rotating position according to several embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0032] The motion apparatus can take various forms and can be used in various ways, as will be apparent from the following description of the embodiments. Furthermore, some of the embodiments include some combinations of the above-described aspects and features, while others include additional aspects and features. As stated above, not all aspects and features of this disclosure are required to be employed in a single embodiment.

[0033] Each illustrated embodiment includes a resistance unit that allows the user to control the resistance and the angle and range of motion. Furthermore, the resistance unit is designed to allow the user to perform a wide variety of exercises to train different muscles or muscle groups with the same device. The resistance unit may be fixed or movable and may include a movable pulley that allows the user to change the direction of pushing or pulling during repeated sets of exercises. Various examples of resistance units including exercise devices with pneumatic devices can be found in U.S. Patents 4,257,593, 5,526,692, 5,336,145, 6,962,554, 7,172,538, 7,686,749, 7,998,038, 8,052,584, 8,323,158, and 8,523,789, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. These patents describe exercise devices and related apparatus that provide controllable resistance using pneumatic devices, and these constitute part of the present disclosure. Various aspects, features and advantages of the described devices can be used with various types of resistance mechanisms as described in these patents (e.g., but not limited to, weight stacks, resistance units, exercise systems, multifunction exercise stations, leg presses, leg extensions, leg curl machines, standing hip machines, abdominal machines, lower back machines, upper back machines, lat pulldown machines, military press machines, chest presses, triceps machines, arm curl machines, seated butterfly machines, seated calf machines, lateral shoulder raise machines, squat machines, hip abductor machines, or variations thereof). The devices may further be fixed or movable.

[0034] As used herein, “cable” and “belt” may be used to mean flexible links such as steel or fiber ropes, cords, cables, and belts. Furthermore, such terms may be used interchangeably.

[0035] Figure 1 shows a front perspective view of a potential embodiment of the exercise device 100. Figure 2 shows a rear view of the exercise device 100.

[0036] The motion device 100 has a housing 102 that houses a resistance assembly (e.g., a resistance unit) and a coupling mechanism (not shown). A user interface 118 may be mounted on the housing 102. The housing 102 also supports a pair of adjustable arms 104. The arms 104 are positioned on both sides of the housing 102 and extend outward from the housing 102. In the illustrated embodiment, each arm 104 extends at a certain angle to the front surface 106 of the housing. This arrangement is advantageous because it allows three motion devices 100 to be mounted close to each other in a triangular arrangement. That is, each motion device 100 may be positioned along one side of an equilateral triangle, with the back surfaces of the motion devices 100 facing each other. Because the arms 104 of each motion device 100 are spaced apart, the movement of an arm 104 of one motion device 100 does not interfere with the movement of an adjacent arm 104 of a neighboring motion device 100.

[0037] In certain embodiments, each arm 104 has a tubular structure through which a user cable 108 passes. In certain embodiments, the outer end of the arm supports a handle pulley assembly 112 via a hinge connection. The hinge connection allows the handle pulley assembly 112 to rotate about the axis of the arm 104. The handle pulley assembly 112 includes a pulley offset to one side of the arm axis. In certain embodiments, the handle pulley assembly 112 includes a plurality of holes formed in its side bracket. To respond more quickly to user movement and to do so with less resistance, the holes reduce the weight of the handle pulley assembly 112.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the first end of the user cable 108 is passed through a pulley of the handle pulley assembly 112, and the handle 110 is connected to this first end of the user cable. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 110 is preferably detachably connected to the end of the user cable 108 for interchangeability with different types of user interfaces. The hinge connection and the arrangement of the handle pulley assembly 112 cause the user cable 108 to automatically align with the handle pulley assembly 112 when the handle 110 is pulled outward from the arm 104 in substantially any direction. The second end of the user cable 108 is similarly arranged and connected to the other handle 110.

[0039] The hinge assembly 114 hinges the opposite end of each arm 104 to the housing 102. In certain embodiments, each hinge assembly 114 provides approximately 180° of movement (slightly less in the illustrated embodiment) to change the vertical position of the corresponding handle pulley assembly 112. For example, to perform a bicep curl, the arm 104 is positioned to extend straight down, and the user pulls the handle 110 upward from the handle pulley assembly 112. To perform a lat pulldown or triceps push, the arm 104 is positioned to extend straight up, and the user pulls the handle 110 downward. The arm 104 can preferably be selectively locked in several positions between these two extremes.

[0040] For this purpose, each hinge assembly 114 may include a locking mechanism. In some embodiments, each hinge assembly includes a bracket 116 that receives a lug. The bracket 116 is formed by at least two bracket plates, a front bracket plate and a rear bracket plate. The bracket 116 is positioned in the housing 102 (preferably at least partially integrated), and the lug may be positioned at the inner end of the arm 104. At least one of the bracket plates may include a plurality of locking holes spaced apart in an arc-shaped pattern along the outer edge of the bracket plate. The lug can support a knob for adjusting a dowel (not shown). The dowel selectively engages with one of the locking holes. This allows the user to releasably select the vertical position of the arm 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the knob is supported on the front side of the front bracket plate by a support bracket on the lug. The user may pull out the knob to disengage the dowel from the locking hole (if spring biasing is provided) or push the knob to engage the dowel with the locking hole.

[0041] Each hinge assembly 114 may include, but may not include, an axis to accommodate the full range of movement of the arm 104 and to prevent pinching of the user cable 108 during such movement. The hinge assembly 114 may also have zero clearance (i.e., no slop) so that the user does not feel any "play" in the structure when pulling the handle 110. For this purpose, the front bracket plate may be connected to the housing 102. The rear bracket plate may be connected to the front bracket plate by fasteners. Each bracket plate may include holes, which are aligned when assembled. The lugs include two corresponding hemispherical dimples located on either side of the lug. Ball bearings may be positioned between each hole and the corresponding dimple so that the ball bearings are caught between the corresponding bracket plate and the lug. Each ball bearing has a diameter larger than the hole and is sized to partially nest within its respective dimple. Together, the ball bearings act as pivots around which the arm rotates. By tightening the fasteners and thereby pulling the bracket plate together, any play or looseness between the lug and the bracket can be substantially eliminated.

[0042] Figure 3 shows a rear view of the motion device 100 with the rear panel removed. As shown, the resistance unit and coupling mechanism 150 are located within the housing 102. The coupling mechanism 150 includes a resistance source 200 (shown here as a pneumatic cylinder), a cam 300, a belt lock 400, a first lower belt 402, a second lower belt 403, a lower pulley assembly 500, and a tension mechanism 152. The coupling mechanism 150 transmits resistance force from the resistance source 200 to the user cable 108 to counteract the user's movement of the handle 110.

[0043] As described herein, the term “proximal” refers to the +z direction, while the term “distal” refers to the -z direction.

[0044] The distal end of the resistor source 200 is attached to the housing 102 and positioned along the z-axis as shown in the figure. The resistor source 200 is attached to a rod 230 attached to the proximal end of the resistor source 200 and a clevis 202 attached to the proximal end of the rod 230. In some embodiments, an accumulator may be attached to the distal end of the resistor source 200. In some embodiments, the clevis 202 is attached directly to the resistor source without the rod 230.

[0045] The clevis 202 is rotatably connected to the cam 300. The first lower belt 402 is positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the cam 300 and is attached at one end to the lower pulley assembly 500. The lower pulley assembly 500 is part of a double-pulley pulley system in which one or more pulleys are fixed to the housing 102. The lower pulley assembly 500 is attached to the user cable 108. The other end of the first lower belt 402 is attached to the cam 300. The second lower belt 403 is attached at one end to the cam 300 and at the other end to the belt lock 400. The belt lock 400 may be held in place by a tension mechanism 152 fastened to the housing 102. This tension mechanism 152 may be tightened or loosened to adjust the tension exerted on the lower belts 402 and 403.

[0046] In an exemplary use of the motion device 100, the user applies force to the user cable 108 by pulling the handle 110 (not shown). This causes the lower pulley assembly 500 to move in the -z direction, and accordingly an upward force acts on the first lower belt 402. This force rotates the cam 300 around its mounting point with the clevis 202 and simultaneously moves the cam 300 in the -z direction. This movement moves the rod 230 in the -z direction and thus acts on the resistance source 200. Furthermore, the irregular shape of the cam 300 generates a lateral force perpendicular to the z-axis, which causes the cam 300 to move laterally as it rotates.

[0047] According to some embodiments, the lower pulley assembly 500 and the block-and-tuck pulley system are optional. In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a handle (e.g., 110 in Figure 1). In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a user cable (e.g., 108). In some embodiments, the belt is attached to an arm of the exercise device (e.g., 104). In some embodiments, the belt or cable may be attached to a resistance engagement other than a handle (e.g., pedals, grips, bars, pads, etc.) that the user can interact with. The resistance unit and coupling mechanism may be implemented in other exercise devices as described in the patents incorporated herein.

[0048] The resistance source 200 (e.g., a resistance unit or assembly) in the illustrated embodiment may function as a pneumatic actuator or a resistance piston. In some embodiments, the resistance source is a spring or a stretchable band. In some embodiments, the resistance source is a free weight.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the pneumatic actuator is a linear actuator comprising a cylinder (e.g., 200) and a piston rod (e.g., 230). The cylinder may include a cylinder body and a piston that moves or translates within the cylinder body. The piston divides the cylinder body into two variable-volume chambers. At least one of the chambers is selectively in communication with the atmosphere to provide desired resistance. The other chamber may be open to the atmosphere. However, in some applications, both chambers can be pressurized (e.g., at equal pressure), selectively in communication with the atmosphere, and / or in communication with each other. The piston rod may be connected to the piston and extend through one of the variable-volume chambers. The piston rod moves linearly along the stroke axis as the piston slides within the cylinder bore. The stroke length of the piston rod is sufficient to provide the desired stroke to a double-pulley mechanism (as described above). A cap closes the opposite end of the cylinder body (i.e., the end opposite to the end into which the piston rod extends). The cap may include lugs. The pivot pin is preferably secured to the cylinder mounting bar with a lug so that the pneumatic actuator can pivot within the housing around the pivot pin. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the pneumatic actuator is suspended from a bar within the housing so as to pivot in a plane substantially parallel to the front / back of the housing. The actuator in this position may have an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The actuator may communicate with at least one accumulator (not shown). The accumulator may be firmly mounted within the housing. An air equilibrium line may connect the accumulator to the cylinder so as to effectively expand the variable volume of the upper chamber. In this way, the effective air volume of the cylinder is increased, and therefore the air pressure does not increase dramatically when the piston moves.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the accumulator and upper chamber may also be selectively connected to a pressurized air source and the atmosphere. According to some embodiments, an air compressor, which may be remotely positioned relative to the moving device, communicates with the upper chamber via an inlet valve in the cylinder. In certain embodiments, the user operates the inlet valve via a button. The button may be accessible to the user from the housing. When the button is pressed, air pressure is applied to the filling side of the cylinder, for example, the upper chamber. According to some embodiments, an outlet valve may communicate with the filling side of the cylinder to selectively discharge air to the atmosphere in order to reduce the air pressure on the filling side of the cylinder. In certain embodiments, the user operates the outlet valve via another button. The button may be accessible to the user. Thus, the user may adjust, i.e., increase or decrease, the air pressure within the resistance assembly by operating the appropriate valve via each button.

[0051] In some embodiments, the user cable 108 can be formed from a synthetic material such as a polymer. A suitable example of the user cable 108 is a polyester / nylon blend rope. However, coated steel cables can also be used. For example, the user cable 108 may include an 1 / 8 inch wire cable with a plastic sheath, and most of the pulleys of the unit supporting the cable may have a diameter of about 5 inches. Any suitable size cable and pulley can be used, but the associated pulleys preferably have a diameter about 40 times the diameter of the coated wire cable. However, smaller diameter pulleys can be used with other types of cables, such as 2.5-inch diameter pulleys used with polyester / nylon blend ropes.

[0052] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the coupling mechanism 150 separated from the rest of the motion device 100. The resistance source 200 is shown attached to a rod 230 which is attached to a clevis 202. A cam 300 is rotatably mounted to the clevis 202. A first lower belt 402 is attached to the cam 300, extending along the outer surface of the cam 300. The first lower belt 402 is also attached to a lower pulley assembly 500. The lower pulley assembly 500 may be attached to a user cable (not shown). A second lower belt 403 is attached to the cam 300 and the belt lock 400. The belt lock 400 may be attached to a tension bolt (not shown).

[0053] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the coupling mechanism without the resistor and rod.

[0054] The cam 300 mainly includes a cam base 314. The cam base 314 includes a central opening and several notches. The cam base 314 may be a single, integral piece of material. The cam 300 further includes a cam wedge 315 fixed to the cam base 314 between two plates 318. The cam wedge 315, the cam base 314, and the two plates 318 surround a first inner belt lock 400' and a second inner belt lock 400" positioned within the cam 300. The cam wedge 315, the two plates 318, and the belt locks 400' and 400" are held in place by a number of bolts 320, washers 322, and nuts 324. The end of the first lower belt 402 is configured to attach to the first inner belt lock 400', and the end of the second lower belt 403 is configured to attach to the second inner belt lock 400"

[0055] A belt lock 400 is attached to the other end of the second lower belt 403. The belt lock 400 includes an upper piece 405, a lower piece 404, and a fastener 406 for securing the pieces together. The first inner belt lock 400' includes an upper piece 405', a lower piece 404', and a fastener 406'. The second inner belt lock 400'' includes an upper piece 405'', a lower piece 404'', and a fastener 406''.

[0056] The lower pulley assembly 500 is attached to the other end of the first lower belt 402. The lower pulley assembly 500 comprises a pulley housing 501 that houses three pulley wheels 510, and several bushings 508 that separate the wheels from each other and from the pulley housing 501. In this embodiment, there are four bushings 508. Bolts 504 and nuts 506 secure the bushings 508 and the three pulley wheels 510 to the pulley housing 501. The lower pulley assembly 500 further includes a belt clamp 502 located at the proximal end of the pulley housing 501. The belt clamp 502 attaches the first lower belt 402 to the pulley housing 501. A backstop 512 is attached to the distal end of the pulley housing 501.

[0057] Two bearings 316 are mounted in the opening of the cam base 314. To mount the cam 300 to the clevis 202, the shaft 203 can be inserted into the opening and the two bearings 316. Clips 205 may be positioned on both sides of the shaft 203 to secure it in place.

[0058] Figures 6A and 6B show rear cross-sectional views of the coupling mechanism, such as the coupling mechanism in Figure 4. In Figure 6A, the cam 300 is in the neutral position. In Figure 6B, the cam 300 is in the rotational position. An opening 302 (i.e., the axis of rotation) located near the center of the cam 300 is shown. A bearing located within the opening 302 is shown. The opening 302 allows the cam 300 to be attached to the clevis 202 and to rotate around the clevis 202.

[0059] The first inner belt lock 400' is located within the cam 300 and attaches the first lower belt 402 to the cam 300. The second inner belt lock 400'' is located within the cam 300 adjacent to the first inner belt lock 400' and attaches the second lower belt 403 to the cam 300. Several bolt holes 312 used to secure the belt locks are shown.

[0060] The cam 300 has an outer surface 304 that is curved and in contact with the first lower belt 402. The cam 300 has an inner surface 306 that is curved and in contact with the second lower belt 403. As shown in Figure 6A, the first end of the first lower belt 402 is attached to the lower pulley assembly 500 and is positioned tangentially adjacent to the outer surface of the cam 300. The second end of the first lower belt 402 wraps around the outer surface of the cam 300 and is attached to the first inner belt lock 400'. The first end of the second lower belt 403 is attached to the belt lock 400 and is positioned tangentially adjacent to the inner surface of the cam 300. The second end of the second lower belt 403 is in contact with the inner surface of the cam 300 and is attached to the second inner belt lock 400''.

[0061] The curvature of each surface varies such that the radius of each surface relative to the rotation axis of the cam 600 is not constant. For example, the radius R1 of the outer surface is smaller than the radius R2 of the outer surface. Furthermore, the radius R1' of the inner surface is larger than the radius R2' of the inner surface. These radii are inversely proportional; as the cam 300 rotates, the radius of one surface decreases and the radius of the other surface increases, and vice versa. The changing radii ensure that the distance D between the outer surface 304 and the inner surface 306, on which the belt extends tangentially and parallel to the z-axis, remains constant when the cam 600 rotates and moves, deviating from alignment with the z-axis. Therefore, the horizontal distance between the belt lock 400 and the lower pulley assembly 500 remains constant when the cam 300 rotates and moves from its stationary position. The distance D does not need to pass through the rotation axis of the cam 600. According to some embodiments, the curvature of the inner and outer surfaces is such that the entire diameter of the cam 300 can be constant, i.e., R1 + R1' or R2 + R2'' is shown for illustrative purposes. According to some embodiments, this may be expressed as R2 + R2' = R1 + R1'. In some embodiments, the curvature of each surface may follow a logarithmic spiral. In certain embodiments, the radius of the inner surface may generally be smaller than the radius of the outer surface.

[0062] During use, a force in the -z direction is applied to the user cable attached to the lower pulley assembly 500. This force generates a clockwise moment around the center of the opening 302 of the cam 300. The belt lock 400 is fixedly mounted on the opposite side of the cam 300, thereby acting a counter moment on the cam 300. The combination of these moments causes the cam 300 to move perpendicularly in the -z direction toward the resistance source. Furthermore, since the belt lock 400 is fixed and the lower pulley assembly 500 is not, this force rotates the cam 300 clockwise to the position shown in Figure 6B. Because the curvature of each surface is not constant, the rotation of the cam 300 causes the axis of rotation to move out of alignment with the z axis. The resistance source (e.g., resistance source 200 in Figure 4) is pivotably or rotatably mounted on the housing (i.e., the second axis) to allow this motion to occur. As a result, the cam 300 rotates around its mounting point with the clevis, and the resistance source, rod, clevis, and cam rotate around the second axis, causing the cam, rod, and clevis to move toward the resistance source. When the force applied to the user cable is released, the cam 300 moves in the +z direction, then horizontally (e.g., lateral) to return to alignment with the z axis, and rotates counterclockwise to return to the neutral position shown in Figure 6A. Despite the movement in this cycle, the distance D between the belts, which maintains a vertical orientation along the z axis, remains unchanged. The rotational, horizontal, and vertical movements of the cam during each cycle may change the position where the belts intersect the tangents of the outer surface 304 and the inner surface 306. Throughout each cycle, the force acting on the first cable 702, as felt by the user, remains constant. According to some embodiments, the curvature of the inner and outer surfaces on the cam is changed so that this force acting on the first cable 702 increases or decreases throughout the cycle of movement.

[0063] Figures 7A and 7B show a front and rear view of the cam 300. An opening 302 is shown within the cam base 314. In certain embodiments, the cam base includes a front surface 317b, a rear surface 317a, an outer surface 304, and an inner surface 306. A portion of the cam base 314 extends into the opening 302 to form a bearing base. The bearing may be located within the opening 302 and mounted on the cam base 314. A plate 318 is shown positioned on both the front surface 317b and the rear surface 317a. In certain embodiments, the plate 318 attaches the cam wedge 315 to the cam base 314 via a plurality of bolts 320. In certain embodiments, the outer surface 304 extends along the proximal side of the cam base 314 and is substantially similar to a crescent or semicircular shape (e.g., a first arc-shaped portion). In certain embodiments, the inner surface 306 extends along the distal side of the cam base 314 and substantially resembles a crescent or semicircle (e.g., a second arc-shaped portion). In certain embodiments, the cam base 314 has several notches. These notches can reduce the overall weight of the cam 300.

[0064] Figure 7C shows a rear cross-sectional view of the cam 300. The first pocket 328 and the second pocket 330 are located between the cam base 314 and the cam wedge 315. The pockets 328 and 330 are cylindrical in shape and house the first inner belt lock 400' and the second inner belt lock 400'', respectively. The pockets 328 and 330 also house the first belt and portions of the second belt (not shown). The first belt gap 332 is located between the cam base 314 and the cam wedge 315. The first belt gap 332 houses the first belt and allows access to the first pocket 328 from the outer surface 304. The second belt gap 334 is located between the cam wedge 315 and the inner surface 306. The second belt gap 334 houses the second belt.

[0065] Figures 8A to 8D show different diagrams of the belt lock. The illustrated belt lock may be any of belt lock 400, 400', or 400". For simplicity, the belt lock in this diagram will be referred to as belt lock 400. Figure 8A shows a perspective view of belt lock 400. Figures 8B and 8C show a front view and a rear view of belt lock 400. Figure 8D shows a cross-sectional view of Figure 8B.

[0066] In certain embodiments, the belt lock 400 includes three distinct components: a lower piece 404, an upper piece 405, and a fastener 406. In certain embodiments, the lower piece 404 and the fastener 406 are connected to form a cylindrical shape, thereby allowing the belt to be clamped. In certain embodiments, the shapes of the lower piece 404 and the upper piece 405 may be substantially semi-cylindrical. In certain embodiments, the fastener 406 holds the lower piece 404, the upper piece 405, and the belt together. The upper piece 405 may include a fastener opening 416 into which the fastener 406 is inserted and adjusted. The lower piece 404 may include a threaded hole 420 for the fastener 406. In certain embodiments, the lower piece 404 may further include a hexagonal notch 408 extending through the front and back. In certain embodiments, the lower piece 404 includes two bolt channels 410. In certain embodiments, the hexagonal notch 408 is positioned closer to the center of the belt lock 400 than the two bolt channels 410. In certain embodiments, the hexagonal notch 408 extends from the front to the back. In certain embodiments, the two bolt channels 410 are configured to secure the belt lock 400 to the cam, as shown in Figure 7C. In certain embodiments, the upper piece 405 is smaller than the lower piece 404.

[0067] The belt gap 424 is designed to accommodate the belt and is defined by the inner surfaces of the upper piece 405 and the lower piece 404. The inner surface of the upper piece 405 has three teeth 422 extending into the belt gap 424. The inner surface of the lower piece 404 has four teeth 422 extending into the belt gap and offset from the three teeth 422 on the inner surface of the upper piece 405. These teeth 422 help to hold the belt 403 in place. The belt gap 424 has a curved inlet 426 through which the belt exits the belt gap 424. The curved inlet 426 is inclined so that the belt wraps around the belt lock 400 as it exits the belt gap 424. For example, the belt may leave the belt gap 424 tangentially adjacent to the belt lock 400. In certain embodiments, the curved inlet 426 is defined by a curved edge 427 of the upper piece 405 and a concave edge 428 of the lower piece 404. The curved inlet 426 helps the belt maintain contact with the outer surface of the belt lock 400 while the belt is wrapped around it. Wrapping the belt around the belt lock 400 helps distribute the load acting on the belt and the belt lock 400. This helps to fix the belt in place and reduces the possibility of belt breakage or tearing, as belt breakage typically occurs at the clamped position. In some embodiments, the curvature of the outer surface of the belt lock 400 is discontinuous. In some embodiments, the curvature of the outer surface of the belt lock 400 is fixed. In some embodiments, the curvature of the outer surface of the lower piece 404 is different from the curvature of the outer surface of the upper piece 405. In some embodiments, each inner surface may have one or more teeth. In some embodiments, each surface may have fewer than 10 teeth.

[0068] The lower piece 404 and the upper piece 405 can be configured to contact each other near the belt gap 424 at the opposite end of the curved inlet 426. For example, the upper piece 405 may have a flanged edge 429 and the lower piece 404 may have a chamfered edge 430. The flanged edge 429 and the chamfered edge 430 can contact each other when the upper piece 405 and the lower piece 404 are fastened together. This configuration can further secure the lower piece 404 and the upper piece 405 to each other and ensure proper orientation during assembly.

[0069] Figure 8E is a cross-sectional view of the belt lock 400 attached to the second lower belt 403. When in use, the belt is clamped between the upper piece 405 and the lower piece 404. The fastener 406 is then inserted through the fastener opening 416 into the screw hole 420. The fastener can then be tightened to hold the upper piece 405, the lower piece 404, and the belt in place. The fastener opening 416 may pass through the belt positioned within the clamp. In some embodiments, the belt may include a hole for the fastener 406 to pass through. The belt extends through the curved inlet 426 and wraps around the outer surface of the belt lock 400 one and a quarter times before extending tangentially toward the cam. The overlapping belt helps to evenly distribute the load positioned on the belt 403 and at the same time reinforces the clamping force applied to the portion of the belt 403 positioned within the belt lock 400. Furthermore, the belt lock 400 ensures that the belt is bent over a radius designed and tested for safety. In some embodiments, the radius is three-quarters of an inch.

[0070] The hexagonal notch 408 is used to pull the belt. For example, when installing the belt lock 400, a tool such as an Allen wrench may be inserted into the hexagonal notch 408, and the belt lock 400 may be rotated as a whole. This causes the belt to wrap around or unwound from the belt lock 400 to a desired point, and thus the tension on the belt increases or decreases. This allows for final adjustment of the belt tension. In some embodiments, the belt lock 400 may be rotated by 90 degrees or less during final adjustment. In some embodiments, the belt lock 400 may be rotated between 90 degrees and 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the belt lock 400 may be rotated more than 360 degrees.

[0071] The versatile design of the belt lock allows it to be mounted in areas of the moving equipment other than the cam. For example, in some embodiments where pulley assemblies and double-pulley systems are not used, the end of the lower belt may be attached to the belt lock, and the belt lock may be mounted directly to the moving arm of the moving device. The two bolt holes of the belt lock allow it to be fixed directly to the arm. A pulley may be fixed to the top surface of the moving device housing to guide the lower cable from the cam to the arm. There are several advantages to using the belt lock in this way. For example, as the arm moves, the angle at which the belt lock is positioned relative to the pulley may change. When the belt lock is fixed to the arm, the change in angle causes the lower belt to wrap around or unwrap around the belt lock as the arm moves. This eliminates the need for a pivot to attach the belt lock to the arm. In some embodiments, the belt lock may be used at each end of the belt to connect two cams to each other.

[0072] Figure 9A is a perspective view of the lower pulley assembly 500. Figures 9B and 9C show the front and rear views of the lower pulley assembly 500. Figure 9D shows a cross-sectional view of the lower pulley assembly 500.

[0073] The pulley housing 501 includes two oval plates positioned on either side of three pulley wheels 510. A crossbar is positioned near the center of the oval plates and connects the plates to each other. A backstop 512 is positioned at the distal end of the lower pulley assembly 500 and is attached to the pulley housing 501. The backstop protects the pulley housing 501 from colliding with the fixed pulley of the double pulley system. In some embodiments, the double pulley system includes the lower pulley assembly 500 and two pulleys welded to the motion device housing. A bolt 504 crosses the pulley housing 501 and the three pulley wheels 510 and holds the wheels in place. The proximal end of the lower pulley assembly 500 is rectangular in shape and has a clamp holder 514 mounted between each oval plate of the pulley housing 501. The clamp holder 514 has an opening 516 for holding a belt clamp 502.

[0074] The belt clamp 502 includes two wedge-shaped portions that substantially fit into the opening 516. The belt clamp 502 has an upper flange, which rests on the upper surface of the clamp holder 514 and prevents the belt clamp 502 from falling through the opening 516. When in use, the belt is clamped between the wedge portions of the belt clamp 502. The rectangular shape and design of the belt clamp 502 help to ensure a uniform distribution of clamping force on the belt. This is particularly useful when the belt is flat or belt-shaped. This minimizes the possibility of the belt breaking or tearing under tension.

[0075] In Figures 9D and 9E, the belt clamp 502 is shown to extend through the opening 516. The opening 516 is tapered to accommodate the wedge shape of the belt clamp 502, such that the opening 516 is wider distally and narrower proximally. Each belt clamp 502 has four teeth 518 on its inner surface. The teeth 518 help to secure the belt 402 when positioned between the wedge portions. In some embodiments, each belt clamp 502 contains one or more teeth. In some embodiments, each belt clamp 502 contains fewer than 10 teeth.

[0076] During the assembly of the lower pulley assembly 500, the first lower belt 402 is passed distally through the opening 516. The first lower belt 402 is then clamped between the belt clamps 502. The belt clamps 502 and the first lower belt 402 are then positioned proximal to the opening 516, and a proximal force is applied to the first lower belt 402 and the belt clamps 502 to fix the belt clamps 502 in place. Due to the wedge shape of the belt clamps 502 and the tapered shape of the opening 516, the proximal force on the first lower belt 402 further moves the belt clamps 502 into the opening 516, increasing the clamping force on the first lower belt 402.

[0077] Figure 10 is a rear view of one embodiment of the motion device 100 with the back panel removed. As shown, the resistance unit and coupling mechanism 550 are located inside the housing 102. The motion device 100 functions in the same manner as described in Figures 2 and 3.

[0078] The coupling mechanism 550 includes a resistance source 200, shown here as a pneumatic cylinder, a cam 600, a cable key (not shown), a first lower cable 702, a second lower cable 703, a third lower cable 704, a lower pulley assembly 800, and a cable holder 710. The coupling mechanism 150 transmits resistance force from the resistance source 200 to the user cable 108 to counteract the user's movement of the handle 110.

[0079] The rear end of the resistor source 200 is attached to the housing 102 and positioned along the z-axis as shown in the figure. The resistor source 200 is attached to a rod 230 extending from the front end of the resistor source 200 and a clevis 202 attached to the front end of the rod 230. In some embodiments, an accumulator may be attached to the rear end of the resistor source 200. In some embodiments, the clevis 202 is connected directly to the resistor source without the rod 230.

[0080] The clevis 202 is rotatably connected to the cam 600. The first lower cable 702 is positioned adjacent to the outer surface of the cam 600 and is attached at one end to the lower pulley assembly 800. The lower pulley assembly 800 is attached to the user cable 108. The other end of the first lower cable 702 is attached to the cam 600. The second lower cable 703 and the third lower cable 704 are attached at one end to the cam 600 and at the other end to a cable retainer 710. This cable retainer 710 may be fixed to the housing 102. In some embodiments, the cable retainer 710 is held in place by tension bolts fastened to the housing 102. These tension bolts may be tightened or loosened to adjust the tension on the lower cables 702, 703 and 704.

[0081] The handle pulley assembly 112, the arm 104, and the hinge assembly 114 all function as described in Figure 2.

[0082] In some embodiments, the lower pulley assembly 800 is optional. In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a handle (e.g., 110 in Figure 1). In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a user cable (e.g., 108). In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to an arm of the moving device (e.g., 104). In exemplary embodiments, the pulley is fixed to the upper surface of the moving device housing to direct the belt toward the arm. In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to another cam. The cam may be connected to the arm of the moving device.

[0083] Figure 11 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the coupling mechanism 550 separated from the rest of the motion device 100. The resistance source 200 is shown attached to a rod 230 mounted on a clevis 202. A cam 600 is rotatably mounted on the clevis 202. A first cable 702 is attached to the cam 600 by a cable key 700. The first cable 702 extends along the outer surface of the cam 600 and is attached to a lower pulley assembly 800. A user cable (not shown) may be attached to the pulley wheel of the lower pulley assembly 500. A second cable 703 and a third cable 704 are attached to the cam 600 via the cable key 700. The second cable 703 and the third cable 704 extend along the inner surface of the cam 600 and are attached to tension bolts (not shown).

[0084] Figure 12 is an exploded view of the coupling mechanism without the resistance source and rod.

[0085] The lower pulley assembly 800 comprises a pulley housing 801 that houses three pulley wheels 810, and several bushings 808 that separate the wheels from each other and from the pulley housing 801. In this embodiment, there are four bushings 808. Bolts 804 and nuts 806 secure the bushings 808 and the three pulley wheels 810 to the pulley housing 801. The lower pulley assembly 800 further includes a cable retainer 802 located at the proximal end of the pulley housing 801. The cable retainer 802 attaches the lower cable 702 to the pulley housing 801. A backstop 812 is attached to the distal end of the pulley housing 801.

[0086] The other end of the first cable 702 wraps around the outer surface of the cam 600 and is attached to the cable key 700. The cable key 700 is fastened to the cam 600 by one or more screws 706. One or more screws 706 may hold the cable in place. The cable key 700 is also attached to the end of the second cable 703 and the end of the third cable 704. The other ends of the second cable 703 and the third cable 704 are attached to a cable holder or tensioner. The cam 600 has an opening into which two bearings 616 are fitted. The cam 600 is attached to the clevis 202 at the opening.

[0087] Figure 13A is a rear view of the cam 600. Although not shown, the front view is symmetrical to the rear view. The cam 600 has an outer surface 609 (e.g., a first arc-shaped portion) that resembles a semicircle or crescent shape, oriented distally. The cam 600 has an inner surface 610 (e.g., a second arc-shaped portion) that resembles a semicircle or crescent shape, oriented proximally. The inner surface 610 is smaller than the outer surface 609. The inner surface 610 does not intersect with the outer surface 609 because it is separated by a first notch 614 on one side and a second notch 612 on the other side. In some embodiments, the shape of the notches is rectangular. This gives the cam 600 a non-concentric appearance, with one half being smaller than the other. The threaded hole 611 crosses the bottom surface 607 near the second notch 612. In some embodiments, no threads are formed in the hole 611.

[0088] The curvature of both the inner surface 610 and the outer surface 609 varies non-uniformly. As described above in relation to Figures 6A and 6B, the curvature of the inner surface 610 and the outer surface 609 of the cam 600 is such that the distance between adjacent cables extending tangentially from the cam 600 remains constant (i.e., D1 in Figures 16A to 16D) as the cam 600 rotates and moves within each cycle. According to some embodiments, the curvature of each surface may be such that the diameter formed by the radius of the inner surface 610 and the radius of the outer surface 609 around the opening 602 (i.e., the axis of rotation) remains constant throughout the rotation. In some embodiments, the curvature may be logarithmic.

[0089] In a particular embodiment, the opening 602 extends through the cam 600 and is positioned between the outer surface 609 and the inner surface 610 so as to be offset towards the center. A portion of the cam 600 extends into the opening 602 to form a bearing base. Directly surrounding the opening 602 is a raised surface 604 that extends radially from the opening 602. Surrounding the raised surface 604 is the lower surface 607. A chamfered portion transitions the raised surface 604 to the lower surface 607. The lower surface 607 extends proximal until it strikes the outer surface 609. The lower surface 607 extends distally until it strikes a second raised surface 606. Another chamfered portion transitions the lower surface 607 to the second raised surface 606. The second raised surface 606 extends distally until it strikes the inner surface 610.

[0090] Figure 13B is a left side view of the cam 600, and Figure 13C is a right side view of the cam 600. Figure 13D is a top view of the cam 600, and Figure 13E is a bottom view of the cam 600. The outer surface 609 is positioned perpendicularly adjacent to the bottom surface 607. The inner surface 610 is positioned perpendicularly adjacent to the second raised surface 606. As shown in Figure 13C, the outer surface 609 is separated from the inner surface 610 by a first notch 614. As shown in Figure 13B, the outer surface 609 is separated from the inner surface 610 by a second notch 612.

[0091] The outer surface 609 includes a first channel 615 through which a first cable may be placed. The first channel 615 extends along the entire length of the outer surface 609. The inner surface 610 includes a second channel 620 and a third channel 618 through which a second cable and a third cable may be placed. The third channel 618 and the second channel 620 extend along the entire length of the inner surface 610. The first raised surface 604 and the second raised surface 606 are shown extending from the bottom surface.

[0092] The width W1 of the outer surface 609 is smaller than the width W2 of the inner surface 610. Furthermore, the third channel 618 and the second channel 620 are spaced apart so that the width of the outer surface 609 fits between them. Therefore, each cable channel does not interfere with one another. In use, this allows the cam 600 to rotate freely without the outer surface 609 interfering with the second and third cables (see Figures 16C and 16D).

[0093] Figure 14A is a perspective view of the cable key 700. Figure 14B is a right side view of the cable key 700. Figure 14C is a left side view of the cable key 700. Figure 14D is a rear view of the cable key 700.

[0094] The cable key 700 has a rectangular flat portion 712 having two slots 714. The cable key 700 further includes an elongated rectangular portion 718 extending perpendicular to and away from the rectangular flat portion 712. The elongated rectangular portion 718 is traversed by an elongated slot channel 716. Two support walls 724 extend distally from the elongated rectangular portion 718, separating them by a gap.

[0095] The two slots 714 and the elongated slot channel 716 are designed to accommodate cables having a ball at one end, such as cables described in the incorporated '538 and '749 patents (e.g., ball-end cables). The two slots 714 and the elongated slot channel 716 have a wider portion into which the ball can be inserted and a narrower portion for holding the ball in place.

[0096] The first hole 720 traverses the two support walls 724. The second hole 722 traverses the elongated rectangular portion 718 perpendicularly and intersects the elongated slot channel 716 perpendicularly. One or more screws 706 are inserted into the first hole 720, which aligns with the screw hole of the cam 600, to secure the cable key 700 to the cam 600. A second screw 707 is inserted into the second hole 722, which helps to prevent the first cable 702 from moving after it has been inserted into the elongated slot channel 716. In some embodiments, the holes may be tapped or threaded.

[0097] Figure 14E is an enlarged view of a cable key 700 attached to a cam 600 and secured in place by one or more screws 706. A rectangular flat portion 712 is located in a second notch 612 of the cam 600. Two support walls 724 are positioned around the first channel 615 of the cam 600 and help hold the cable key 700 in place. The first channel 615, second channel 620, and third channel 618 of the cam 600 are positioned adjacent to the cable key 700. Each channel has cables arranged within a first cable 702, a second cable 703, and a third cable 704. The first cable 702 is arranged within an elongated slot channel 716, and the second cable 703 and third cable 704 are arranged within two slots 714. A ball extending from the first cable 702 is shown, and another ball extending from the second cable 703 is shown. The ball locks the cables (e.g., 702, 703, 704) to cable key 700.

[0098] The cable key 700 secures the first cable 702, the second cable 703, and the third cable 704 to the cam 600, ensuring that the cables remain within the channels of the cam 600 as the cam moves and rotates. According to some embodiments, the process for attaching the cable key to the cam can begin from a first direction by inserting two ball-end cables into two adjacent slots in the flat rectangular portion. Next, another ball-end cable is inserted from a second direction into an elongated slot in the elongated rectangular portion of the cable key. The flat rectangular portion can then be inserted into the rectangular notch of the cam. A portion of the cam (i.e., the outer surface and the first channel 615) is positioned to fit between two side walls extending from the elongated rectangular portion of the cable key. The cable key is fastened to the cam through through holes located in the two side walls. Then, screws are fastened into second through holes located in the elongated rectangular portion that secure the ball cables to the elongated slots.

[0099] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the pulley housing 801. The pulley housing 801 includes two oval plates positioned on either side of the pulley wheel 810. A crossbar is positioned near the center of the oval plates and connects the plates to each other. A backstop 812 is positioned at the distal end of the lower pulley assembly 800 and is mounted to the pulley housing 801. Three pulley wheels 810 are arranged within the pulley housing 801 along with several bushings. A bolt 804 crosses the pulley housing 801 and the three pulley wheels 810, holding the wheels and bushings in place. A cable retainer 802 is positioned at the proximal end of the lower pulley assembly 800. The cable retainer 802 is rectangular in shape and is mounted between each oval plate of the pulley housing 801. The 802 has a slot 803 into which a first cable 702 is inserted. As described above, the cable may have balls at each end. Because the cable ball is larger than the slot 803, the cable ball prevents the first cable 702 from coming out of the cable retainer 802. One side of the oval plate includes a notch 805 that allows the cable ball to be inserted above the cable retainer 802, while allowing the rest of the first cable 702 to pass through the slot 803.

[0100] Figure 16A shows the coupling mechanism 550 in the neutral position, and Figure 16B shows the coupling mechanism 550 in the rotational position.

[0101] In the neutral position, the resistance source 200, rod 230, clevis 202, and the opening of the cam 600 are substantially aligned with the z-axis. When force is applied to the lower pulley assembly 800 via a user cable attached to a pulley wheel (not shown), the lower pulley assembly 800 moves in the -z direction parallel to the z-axis. As a result, the cam 600 rotates clockwise around the opening (i.e., the axis of rotation) or the mounting point with the clevis 202. The cam 600, clevis 202, and rod 230 also move in the -z direction toward the resistance source 200. When this movement occurs, due to the uneven curvature of the inner and outer surfaces, the resistance source 200 rotates around the mounting point with the housing (i.e., the second axis) which moves the cam 600 out of alignment with the z-axis. The curvature of the outer and inner surfaces of the cam 600 is designed to accommodate this movement and ensure that the force vectors acting through the first cable 702, the second cable 703, and the third cable 704 remain perpendicular.

[0102] When the force on the lower pulley assembly 800 is relieved, the lower pulley assembly 800 moves vertically in the +z direction to return to the position shown in Figure 16A. Similarly, as the resistance source 200 rotates around its mounting point with the housing, the cam 600 moves in the +z direction, rotates counterclockwise, and returns to align with the z axis.

[0103] In contrast to the side with a single cable 702, two cables 703, 704 are arranged on one side of the rotation axis of the cam 600 to account for the mismatch of forces applied to that side in a rotational state. As the cam 600 rotates around its axis, the cam also rotates around the second axis and simultaneously moves toward the resistance source. During this movement, the distance between the rotation axis of the cam and the tangential contact points of cables 703, 704 decreases, and the distance between the rotation axis and the tangential contact point of the first cable 702 increases, resulting in a greater force acting on cables 703, 704. On the other hand, the force acting on the first cable 702 remains constant throughout the cycle of movement. According to some embodiments, the curvature of the inner and outer surfaces on the cam is varied so that the force acting on the first cable 702 increases or decreases throughout the cycle of movement.

[0104] In some embodiments, the load on cables 703 and 704 is twice the load on cable 702. In some embodiments, cables 703 and 704 are rated to withstand up to 12,500 pounds.

[0105] The curvature of the surface of the cam 600 is such that, as the cam 600 rotates, the distance D1 between cables 702 and 703, 704 that contact the cam 600 remains constant. This distance can also be expressed as the horizontal distance between the parallel portions of cable 702 and the parallel portions of cables 703, 704. By keeping D1 constant, it is ensured that the first cable 702 remains parallel to cables 703, 704, and that the load acting on the cables remains parallel. Thus, as the cam rotates from its neutral position, cables 702, 703, and 704 remain vertical or inline, while the resistance source 200, rod 230, clevis 202, and cam 600 move out of line. This ensures that the directional component of the force acting on the double-pulley system remains constant throughout the rotation.

[0106] Figure 16C shows the coupling mechanism 550 rotated to a further position. Figure 16D is a perspective view of the coupling mechanism 550 rotated to a further position. The cam 600 rotates so that its outer surface extends through the clevis 202 between the cables 703 and 704. Thus, the cam 600 can rotate further than other similar designs due to the shape of its outer surface and the use of two cables on one side. When in use, this makes it possible to utilize more of the outer and inner surfaces of the cam. In some embodiments, the cam 600 rotates more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam 600 rotates more than 180 degrees but less than 270 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam 600 rotates 220 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam 600 rotates 90 degrees.

[0107] Figure 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the coupling mechanism 950 separated from the rest of the motion device 100. This coupling mechanism 950 can be used in any of the motion devices 100 shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, or 10. The resistance source 200 is shown attached to a rod 230 which is attached to a clevis 202. A cam 1000 is rotatably mounted to the clevis 202. The belt 1102 is attached to the cam 1000 by a round belt clamping device 1100. The first end of the belt 1102 extends along the outer surface of the cam 1000 and is attached to the lower pulley assembly 500. A user cable (not shown) may be attached to the pulley wheel of the lower pulley assembly 500. The second end of the belt 1102 extends along the inner surface of the cam 1000 and is attached to the belt lock 900.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the lower pulley assembly 500 is optional. In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a handle (e.g., 110 in Figure 1). In some embodiments, the first lower belt is attached to a user cable (e.g., 108).

[0109] Figure 18 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism without a resistance source and rod.

[0110] The cam 1000 includes a central opening and several notches. Two bearings 1016 are mounted in the opening. The shaft 203 is inserted through the opening and the two bearings 1016 to mount the cam 1000 to the clevis 202. Clips 205 are positioned on both sides of the shaft 203 to secure it in place. The cam 1000 may be a single, one-piece material.

[0111] The cam 1000 is attached to the round belt clamp device 1100. The round belt clamp device 1100 includes a clamp plate 1108, a receiving portion 1106, a semicircular portion 1104, and two fasteners 1110 such as socket head screws. The round belt clamp device 1100 is attached to the cam 1000 and clamps the belt 1102 to the cam 1000.

[0112] A belt lock 900 is attached to the end of the belt 1102. The belt lock 900 includes an upper piece 905, a lower piece 904, and fasteners 906 for securing the pieces together. The belt lock 900 further includes a front plate 907 and a rear plate 908, which are attached to the front and rear sides of the belt lock 900 and cover the front and rear sides. Apart from the front plate 907 and rear plate 908, the belt lock 900 may be the same as other belt locks described herein (i.e., 400 in Figures 8A to 8E).

[0113] A lower pulley assembly 500 (i.e., Figures 9A to 9E) is attached to the other end of the belt 1102. The lower pulley assembly 500 comprises a pulley housing 501 that houses three pulley wheels 510, and several bushings 508 that separate the wheels from each other and from the pulley housing 501. In this embodiment, there are four bushings 508. Bolts 504 and nuts 506 secure the bushings 508 and the three pulley wheels 510 to the pulley housing 501. The lower pulley assembly 500 further includes a belt clamp 502 located at the proximal end of the pulley housing 501. The belt clamp 502 attaches the belt 1102 to the pulley housing 501. A backstop 512 is attached to the distal end of the pulley housing 501.

[0114] Figure 19A is a rear view of the cam 1000. Although not shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the front view is symmetrical to the rear view. The cam 1000 has a rear surface 1004, a front surface (not shown), an outer surface 1009, and an inner surface 1010. The outer surface 1009 can resemble a semicircle or crescent shape oriented so that its shape faces distal (e.g., a first arc-shaped portion). The cam 1000 has an inner surface 1010 that resembles a semicircle or crescent shape oriented so that its shape faces proximal (e.g., a second arc-shaped portion). The inner surface 1010 is smaller than the outer surface 1009. The inner surface 1010 does not intersect with the outer surface 1009 because it is separated by a receiving notch 1008 on one side and an arc-shaped notch 1006 on the other side. As a result, the cam 600 has a non-concentric appearance, with one half being smaller than the other. The plate notch 1012 is positioned parallel to and adjacent to the receiving notch 1008.

[0115] The curvature of both the inner surface 1010 and the outer surface 1009 varies non-uniformly. As described above in relation to Figures 6A and 6B, the curvature of the inner surface 1010 and the outer surface 1009 of the cam 1000 is such that the distance between adjacent portions of the belt extending tangentially from both sides of the cam 1000 remains constant (i.e., D2 in Figures 21A-21B) as the cam 1000 rotates and moves within each cycle. According to some embodiments, the curvature of each surface may be such that the diameter formed by the radius of the inner surface 1010 and the radius of the outer surface 1009 around the opening 1002 (i.e., the axis of rotation) remains constant throughout the rotation. In some embodiments, the curvature may be logarithmic.

[0116] The opening 1002 extends through the cam 1000 and is positioned between the outer surface 1009 and the inner surface 1010 so as to be offset towards the center. A portion of the cam 1000 extends into the opening 1002 to form a bearing base. Directly enclosing the front and rear openings 1002 is a flat front / rear surface 1004. The front / rear surface 1004 extends proximal to the outer surface 1009. The front / rear surface 1004 extends distally to the inner surface 1010. In some embodiments, the cam 1000 does not include a receiving notch 1003 or a plate notch 1012, but is instead a single, integrated member.

[0117] Figure 19B is a left side view of cam 1000, and Figure 19C is a right side view of cam 1000. Figure 19D is a top view of cam 1000, and Figure 19E is a bottom view of cam 1000. The outer surface 1009 is positioned perpendicularly adjacent to the front / back surface 1004. As shown in Figure 19C, the outer surface 1009 is separated from the inner surface 1010, but the arc-shaped notch 1006 is not visible. As shown in Figure 19D, the outer surface 1009 is separated from the inner surface 1010 by 1008.

[0118] When in use, the belt is fitted into the receiving notch 1008. One end of the belt extends from the receiving notch 1008 and contacts the inner surface 1010 before extending tangentially adjacent from the curvature of the inner surface 1010 to the belt lock. The other end extends from the receiving notch 1008 so as to contact and wrap around the outer surface 1009 before extending tangentially adjacent from the curvature of the outer surface 1009 to the pulley assembly.

[0119] Figure 20A is a perspective view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20B is a rear view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20C is a front view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20D is a left side view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20E is a right side view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20F is a top view of the round belt clamp device 1100. Figure 20G is a bottom view of the round belt clamp device 1100.

[0120] The round belt clamp device 1100 includes a semicircular portion 1104, a receiving portion 1106, a clamp plate 1108, and two fasteners 1110.

[0121] The semicircular portion 1104 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape with a flat upper surface and a curved lower surface. Two holes are positioned perpendicular to the flat surface, traversing the surface. The holes are stepped to accommodate the heads of two fasteners 1110. Each hole is positioned to intersect the surfaces of the opposing ends of the semicylinder. Therefore, when inserted into the holes, the head of each fastener 1110 is partially exposed, but the shank of each fastener is not. The curved surface has five teeth 1112 extending radially. In some embodiments, the number of teeth is greater than 1 but less than 10. In some embodiments, the curved surface does not have teeth.

[0122] The shape of the receiving portion 1106 is arc-shaped and has an upper surface that matches the curvature of the curved surface of the semicircular portion 1104. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the receiving portion 1106 includes one or more teeth. The lower surface of the receiving portion 1106 is flat and parallel to the flat surface of the semicircular portion 1104. The upper and lower surfaces are separated by a pointed edge. Two holes penetrate the receiving portion 1106.

[0123] The clamp plate 1108 is molded as a rectangular prism with rounded edges and is positioned below the receiving portion 1106. Two screw holes pass through the clamp plate 1108.

[0124] When assembled, the two fasteners 1110 extend through the holes in the semicircular portion 1104, the receiving portion 1106, and the screw holes in the clamp plate 1108, thus attaching each part to one another.

[0125] Figure 20H is a perspective view of a round belt clamp device 1100 attached to a cam 1000. During assembly, the clamp plate 1108 is inserted into a plate notch 1012 of the cam 1000. The receiving portion 1106 is inserted into a receiving notch 1008 of the cam 1000. The belt 1102 is positioned on the cam 1000 so that it is flat against the curved surface of the receiving portion 1106. Next, the semicircular portion 1104 is positioned on the belt 1102, clamping the belt between the semicircular portion 1104 and the receiving portion 1106. The semicircular portion 1104, the receiving portion 1106, and the clamp plate 1108 are aligned so that their respective holes are concentric. Then, two fasteners 1110 are inserted into the holes and tightened to secure the belt 1102 in place.

[0126] In certain embodiments, the clamping device does not include the receiving portion 1106 and the clamping plate 1108. Rather, the semicircular portion is directly fastened to the cam 1000 to secure the belt.

[0127] Figure 21A shows the coupling mechanism 950 in the neutral position. Figure 21B shows the coupling mechanism 950 in the rotational position.

[0128] In the neutral position, the resistance source 200, rod 230, clevis 202, and the opening of the cam 1000 are substantially aligned with the z-axis. When force is applied to the lower pulley assembly 500 via a user cable attached to a pulley wheel (not shown), the lower pulley assembly 500 moves in the -z direction parallel to the z-axis. As a result, the cam 1000 rotates clockwise around the opening (i.e., the axis of rotation) or the mounting point with the clevis 202. The cam 1000, clevis 202, and rod 230 also move in the -z direction toward the resistance source 200. When this movement occurs, due to the uneven curvature of the inner and outer surfaces, the resistance source 200 rotates around the mounting point with the housing (i.e., the second axis) which moves the cam 1000 out of alignment with the z-axis. The curvature of the outer and inner surfaces of the cam 1000 is designed to accommodate this movement and ensure that the force vectors acting between the lower pulley assembly 500 and the cam 1000, and between the belt lock 900 and the cam 1000, remain perpendicular along the belt 1102.

[0129] When the force on the lower pulley assembly 500 is relieved, the lower pulley assembly 800 moves vertically in the +z direction to return to the position shown in Figure 16A. Similarly, as the resistance source 200 rotates around its mounting point with the housing, the cam 1000 moves in the +z direction, rotates counterclockwise, and returns to align with the z axis.

[0130] The curvature of the surface of the cam 1000 is such that the distance D2 between the portion of the belt 1102 extending tangentially from the cam 1000 to the pulley 500 and the portion of the belt 1102 extending tangentially from the cam 1000 to the belt lock 900 remains constant as the cam 1000 rotates. For example, as the radius of the outer diameter increases, the radius of the inner diameter decreases. The distance D2 can further be expressed as the horizontal distance between parallel portions of the belt 1102.

[0131] As disclosed herein, each cam (i.e., Figures 7A–7C, 13A–13E, 19A–19E) rotates around a pivot axis or opening. Each cam can rotate to different degrees around this axis depending on the unique shape of each cam and the positioning of the cable / belt attached to each cam. In some embodiments, the cam rotates by 90 degrees or less. In some embodiments, the cam rotates by more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam rotates by more than 180 degrees but less than 270 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam rotates by more than 270 degrees but less than 360 degrees. In some embodiments, the cam rotates by 360 degrees.

[0132] As disclosed herein, each coupling mechanism may be implemented in any of the exercise devices or equipment described in the incorporated references. In some embodiments, each coupling mechanism may optionally include a pulley assembly and / or a double-pulley pulley system. In some embodiments, the belt or cable may be directly attached to or coupled to the handle or arm of the exercise device. Additional or alternative pulleys may be required to guide the cable or belt to the handle or arm.

[0133] Each component of the coupling mechanism may be made of one or more materials, including polymers, plastics, composites, carbon fibers, or metals. In some embodiments, the cam is made of plastic or aluminum. In some embodiments, the belt lock is made of aluminum.

[0134] While specific embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In fact, the novel methods and systems described herein can be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications of systems and methods can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to encompass forms or modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0135] Any feature, material, property, or group described in relation to a particular aspect, embodiment, or example should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification, unless otherwise compatible. All features disclosed herein (including the appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so herein disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for any combination in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. Protection is not limited to the details of any of the aforementioned embodiments. Protection extends to any novel features or any novel combination of features disclosed herein (including the appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or any novel steps or any novel combination of any method or process so herein disclosed.

[0136] Furthermore, certain features described in this disclosure in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately or in any suitable partial combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, features may be described above as acting in a particular combination, but one or more features from a claimed combination may, in some cases, be removed from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a partial combination or a variation of a partial combination.

[0137] Furthermore, while operations may be shown in the drawings or described herein in a specific order, such operations do not need to be performed in the specific order shown or in a sequential order to achieve the desired result, nor do all operations need to be performed. Other operations not shown or described may be incorporated into exemplary methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or in between any of the described operations. Furthermore, operations may be rearranged or reordered in other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that in some embodiments, the actual steps performed in the illustrated and / or disclosed processes may differ from those shown in the drawings. Depending on the embodiment, certain steps among the steps described above may be omitted, and other steps may be added. Furthermore, the features and attributes of the particular embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of this disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and the described components and systems may generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged in multiple products. For example, any of the components for a coupling mechanism described herein may be provided separately to form a coupling mechanism, or they may be integrated (e.g., packaged together or mounted together).

[0138] For the purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not all such advantages can necessarily be achieved according to any particular embodiment. Therefore, for example, a person skilled in the art will recognize that this disclosure can be embodied or implemented to achieve one or more advantages as taught herein, without necessarily achieving other advantages that can be taught or suggested herein.

[0139] Conditional language such as “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless otherwise specified or understood in the context in which they are used, is generally intended to convey that a particular embodiment includes certain features, elements, and / or processes, but other embodiments do not. Therefore, such conditional language does not generally imply that features, elements, and / or processes are required in any way in one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether these features, elements, and / or processes should be included in or performed in any particular embodiment, with or without user input or prompting.

[0140] Conjunctions such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," are generally understood in contexts where they are used to convey that an item, term, etc., could be any of X, Y, or Z, unless otherwise specified. Therefore, such conjunctive expressions are not generally intended to imply that a particular embodiment requires the presence of at least one X, at least one Y, and at least one Z.

[0141] As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” refer to values, quantities, or characteristics close to the stated values, quantities, or characteristics that still perform the desired function or achieve the desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to quantities less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, and less than 0.01% of the stated quantity, depending on the desired function or desired result.

[0142] The scope of this disclosure is not intended to be limited by any specific disclosure of preferred embodiments in this section or elsewhere in this specification, but may be defined by the claims, as presented in this section or elsewhere in this specification, or as presented in the future. The language of the claims should be interpreted broadly on the basis of the language used in the claims, and not limited to the examples described herein or during the examination of an application, and the examples should be interpreted as non-exclusive.

[0143] The headings provided herein, where present, are for convenience only and do not necessarily affect the scope or meaning of the apparatus and methods disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A coupling mechanism for a motion device, A resistor source rotatably connected to the housing, A rod connected to the aforementioned resistance source, A clevis connected to the aforementioned rod, A cam rotatably connected to the clevis with respect to its axis, A curved outer surface having a first channel, A cam comprising a curved inner surface having a second channel and a third channel, A first cable, wherein one end of the first cable is connected to one or more resistance engagement parts, and the other end of the cable is connected to the cam, A second cable and a third cable, one end of which is connected to the housing and the other end of which is connected to the cam, A coupling mechanism equipped with a coupling mechanism.

2. The coupling mechanism according to claim 1, further comprising a cable key for connecting the first cable, the second cable, and the third cable to the cam.

3. The coupling mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the curved outer surface is larger than the curved inner surface.

4. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the curvature of the curved inner surface and the curvature of the curved outer surface are discontinuous.

5. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the axis is not concentric with the curved inner surface and the curved outer surface.

6. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the axis is positioned off-center from the center of the cam.

7. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved outer surface is greater than the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved inner surface.

8. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the horizontal distance between the first cable, the second cable, and the third cable remains constant as the cam rotates around the axis, around the coupling between the resistance source and the housing, and moves toward the resistance source.

9. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first cable is disposed within the first channel and is wrapped around the curved outer surface of the cam when the cam is in a neutral position.

10. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the second cable and the third cable are respectively arranged in the second channel and the third channel, and are wound around the curved inner surface of the cam when the cam is in a rotational position.

11. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a pulley assembly for connecting the first cable to the one or more resistance engagement portions.

12. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein when the cam rotates and moves, the curved outer surface and the first channel pass between the second cable and the third cable.

13. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the force exerted on the first cable remains constant when the cam rotates and moves.

14. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cable remains vertically oriented when the cam rotates and moves.

15. A cam rotatably mounted on the resistance unit of a motion device, A first arc-shaped portion including a first cable channel, A second arc-shaped portion including a second cable channel and a third cable channel, wherein the second arc-shaped portion is located on the opposite side of the first arc-shaped portion, An opening is provided such that, when the cam rotates from a first position to a second position, the distance between the tangent to the first cable channel and the tangents to the second and third cable channels remains constant. A cam equipped with...

16. The cam according to claim 15, wherein the opening is offset from the center of the cam.

17. The cam according to claim 15 or claim 16, further comprising a rectangular notch between the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion.

18. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising another notch positioned on the opposite side of the rectangular notch between the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion.

19. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 18, further comprising a screw hole extending through the first arc-shaped portion and positioned adjacent to the rectangular notch.

20. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the second cable channel and the third cable channel are spaced apart.

21. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the width of the first arc-shaped portion is smaller than the width of the second arc-shaped portion.

22. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the non-constant radius of the second arc-shaped portion is, on average, smaller than the non-constant radius of the first arc-shaped portion.

23. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 22, further comprising a raised surface surrounding the opening.

24. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the cam moves further vertically and horizontally to reach the second position.

25. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 24, wherein the tangents on the inner surface and the tangents on the outer surface are oriented in the direction of the external force acting on the cam.

26. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 25, wherein the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface are oriented perpendicularly.

27. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 26, wherein the tangents of the inner surface and the tangents of the outer surface remain oriented parallel to each other.

28. The cam according to any one of claims 15 to 27, wherein the horizontal position of the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface does not change when the cam rotates and moves.

29. A method for transmitting force from a resistance unit to a pulley assembly, Applying force adjacent to the outer surface of the cam, In response to the aforementioned force, the cam is rotated in a first direction about the first axis, In response to the aforementioned force, the cam is moved toward the resistance unit, In response to the aforementioned force, the resistance unit is rotated in a second direction about a second axis, To reduce the force applied to the cam, In response to the decrease in the force, the cam is rotated in the second direction around the first axis, In response to the decrease in the force, the cam is moved away from the resistance unit, In response to the decrease in the force, the resistance unit is rotated in the first direction, Methods that include...

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein the cam rotates 90 degrees.

31. The method according to claim 29, wherein the cam rotates by more than 90 degrees but less than 270 degrees.

32. The method according to claim 29, wherein the cam rotates less than 90 degrees.

33. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein the first direction is a clockwise direction.

34. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 33, wherein the second direction is counterclockwise.

35. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 34, wherein the direction of the applied force does not change.

36. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 35, wherein the magnitude of the applied force does not change.

37. A coupling mechanism for a motion device, A resistor source rotatably connected to the housing, A rod connected to the aforementioned resistance source and configured to vibrate in a linear direction, A clevis connected to the aforementioned rod, A cam rotatably connected to the clevis with respect to its axis, Curved outer surface and, A cam comprising a curved inner surface located on the opposite side of the curved outer surface, One or more tension members connected to the cam and arranged on the curved outer surface, wherein a first portion of the one or more tension members extends tangentially adjacent to the curved outer surface and away from the cam, and a second portion of the one or more tension members extends tangentially adjacent to the curved inner surface and away from the cam, An anchor attached to the housing and connected to the second portion of the one or more tension members, A movable resistance engaging portion connected to the first portion of the one or more tension members, A coupling mechanism equipped with a coupling mechanism.

38. The coupling mechanism according to claim 37, wherein the curvature of the curved inner surface and the curvature of the curved outer surface are discontinuous.

39. The coupling mechanism according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the axis is not concentric with the curved inner surface and the curved outer surface.

40. The coupling mechanism according to claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the axis is positioned off-center from the center of the cam.

41. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 40, wherein the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved outer surface is, on average, greater than the distance between the axis of rotation and the curved inner surface.

42. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 41, wherein the horizontal distance between the first and second portions of the one or more tension members extending tangentially adjacent to the cam remains constant as the cam rotates around its axis, around the connection between the resistance source and the housing, and moves toward the resistance source.

43. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 42, further comprising a pulley assembly that connects the first portion of the one or more tension members to the movable resistance engaging portion.

44. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 43, wherein the one or more tension members comprises a first belt or cable.

45. The coupling mechanism according to claim 44, wherein the first belt is fixed to the cam between the curved inner surface and the curved outer surface.

46. The coupling mechanism according to claim 44 or claim 45, further comprising a second belt, wherein the first belt is fixed to the cam and pulley assembly, and the first belt is partially positioned on the curved outer surface of the cam.

47. The coupling mechanism according to claim 46, wherein the second belt is fixed to the cam and the anchor, and the second belt is partially positioned on the curved inner surface of the cam.

48. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 47, wherein the first portion and the second portion of the one or more tension members are oriented parallel to each other.

49. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 48, wherein when the cam rotates and moves, the first portion and the second portion of the one or more tension members do not change orientation.

50. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 49, wherein the first portion and the second portion of the one or more tension members are oriented vertically.

51. The coupling mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 50, wherein the force exerted on the first portion of the one or more tension members remains unchanged when the cam rotates and moves.

52. A cam for a motion device, A first arc-shaped portion including the outer surface, A second arc-shaped portion, including the inner surface and positioned opposite the first arc-shaped portion, wherein the first and second arc-shaped portions have non-constant radii, An opening is provided between the inner surface and the outer surface such that the distance between the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface remains constant regardless of the orientation and movement of the cam, A cam equipped with...

53. The cam according to claim 52, further comprising two cylindrical notches arranged adjacent to each other and located between the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion, wherein the notches are configured to provide anchor points for attaching one or more belts to the cam.

54. The cam according to claim 52 or claim 53, further comprising a wedge configured to be attached to the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion, wherein the wedge is positioned adjacent to the two cylindrical notches, and the wedge secures the one or more belts to the cam.

55. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 54, further comprising a plate and a plurality of fasteners configured to fix the wedge to the first portion and the second portion.

56. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 55, further comprising a receiving notch positioned between the first arc-shaped portion and the second arc-shaped portion, wherein the receiving notch is configured to receive a portion of the belt and the clamp.

57. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 56, further comprising a plate notch positioned adjacent to the receiving notch, wherein the plate notch is configured to receive a second portion of the clamp, and the first portion and the second portion of the clamp are fixed together via one or more fasteners.

58. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 57, further comprising one or more notches located within the first arc-shaped portion or the second arc-shaped portion.

59. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 58, wherein the second arc-shaped portion is smaller than the first arc-shaped portion.

60. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 59, wherein the opening is offset from the center of the cam.

61. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 60, wherein the tangents are oriented parallel to each other.

62. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 61, wherein the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface are oriented in the direction of the external force acting on the cam.

63. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 62, wherein the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface are oriented perpendicularly.

64. The cam according to any one of claims 52 to 63, wherein the horizontal position of the tangent to the inner surface and the tangent to the outer surface does not change when the cam rotates and moves.

65. A device for locking a part of a belt, An upper semi-cylindrical portion having a curved edge, A lower semi-cylindrical portion having a chamfered edge, The lower portion and the upper portion are joined together to form a cylindrical shape. A gap is formed between the upper portion and the lower portion to accommodate the belt, and the gap forms a curved opening between the curved edge and the chamfered edge, comprising an upper semi-cylindrical portion and a lower semi-cylindrical portion, A fastener for securing the upper portion and the lower portion to the belt, A device equipped with the following features.

66. The apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the upper semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a first through-hole, and the lower semi-cylindrical portion comprises a second through-hole through which the fastener extends.

67. The apparatus according to claim 65 or claim 66, wherein the first through hole is stepped.

68. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 67, wherein the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a hexagonal notch extending in the axial direction.

69. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 68, wherein the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises one or more bolt channels extending in the axial direction.

70. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 69, wherein the upper cylindrical portion and the lower cylindrical portion are provided with one or more teeth extending within the gap.

71. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 70, wherein the teeth of the upper cylindrical portion are offset from the teeth of the lower cylindrical portion.

72. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 71, wherein the upper cylindrical portion has three teeth and the lower cylindrical portion has four teeth.

73. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 71, wherein the upper cylindrical portion and the lower cylindrical portion each have fewer than 10 teeth.

74. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 73, wherein the belt moves away from the curved entrance in a tangential direction adjacent to the lower semi-cylindrical portion.

75. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 74, wherein the belt is wrapped around the lower semi-cylindrical portion and the upper cylindrical portion.

76. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 75, wherein the belt is wrapped at least 1 and 1 / 4 times around the lower semi-cylindrical portion and the upper cylindrical portion.

77. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 76, wherein the radius of the connected lower semi-cylindrical portion and the upper semi-cylindrical portion is 3 / 4 inch.

78. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 77, wherein the upper portion is smaller than the lower portion.

79. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 78, wherein the upper semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a flange edge on the opposite side of the curved edge.

80. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 79, wherein the lower semi-cylindrical portion further comprises a concave edge on the opposite side of the chamfered edge.

81. The apparatus according to any one of claims 65 to 80, wherein the flange edge and the concave edge come into contact when the lower portion and the upper portion are joined together.

82. A method for securing a belt inside an exercise device, The first end of the belt is clamped between the upper semi-cylindrical clamp and the lower semi-cylindrical clamp, The upper semi-cylindrical clamp and the lower semi-cylindrical clamp are fastened together, To increase the clamping force applied to the belt, the fasteners are tightened, The belt is wrapped around the outer surface of the semi-cylindrical clamp, The second end of the belt is fixed to the mechanism of the training device, The lower semi-cylindrical clamp is fastened to another mechanism of the training device using one or more fasteners. A method that includes [a certain feature].

83. The method according to claim 82, wherein the upper semi-cylindrical clamp and the lower semi-cylindrical clamp have one or more through holes.

84. The method according to claim 82 or claim 83, wherein a screw thread is formed in the through hole of the lower semi-cylindrical clamp.

85. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 84, further comprising inserting the fastener through the belt into the through hole.

86. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 85, wherein the mechanism is a second upper cylindrical clamp and a second lower cylindrical clamp.

87. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 86, wherein the mechanism is one or more of a cam or a pulley.

88. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 87, wherein the mechanism is one or more of a cam or a tension bolt.

89. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 88, wherein the belt is wrapped around the semi-cylindrical clamp one and a quarter times.

90. The method according to any one of claims 82 to 89, further comprising rotating the clamp to adjust the number of turns through the hexagonal through-hole of the lower semi-cylindrical clamp.

91. One or more pulleys, A pulley housing attached to the one or more pulleys, A clamp holding portion attached to the pulley housing, comprising a clamp holding portion including a tapered opening, Two wedges arranged within the opening, each wedge being, A flange portion extending from the opening and placed on the upper part of the clamp holding portion, Two wedges, including a tapered portion disposed within the opening, A belt fixed between the two wedges, A belt and pulley system equipped with [a specific feature].

92. The belt pulley device according to claim 91, wherein the two wedges further comprise one or more teeth for gripping the belt.

93. The belt pulley device according to claim 91 or claim 92, wherein the one or more teeth are offset.

94. The belt pulley device according to any one of claims 91 to 93, wherein each wedge has four teeth.

95. The belt pulley device according to any one of claims 91 to 93, wherein each wedge has fewer than 10 teeth.

96. The belt-pulley device according to any one of claims 91 to 95, further comprising a backstop attached to the pulley housing and positioned on the opposite side of the clamp holding portion.

97. The belt pulley device according to any one of claims 91 to 96, wherein the shape of the tapered opening is rectangular.

98. A method for securing a belt to a pulley, Pass the belt through the opening of the clamp holding part in the first direction, Clamping the belt between the two wedges, The second method involves inserting the belt and the two wedges into the opening of the clamp holding portion in the second direction, thereby fixing the belt and the wedges in a predetermined position, wherein the wedges exert a clamping force on the belt, thereby fixing it in place. The force of the belt is applied in the second direction to increase the clamping force on the belt. A method that includes this.

99. The method according to claim 98, wherein the clamp holding portion is fixed to the pulley assembly.

100. The method according to either claim 98 or claim 99, wherein the belt is also fixed to the cam.

101. The method according to any one of claims 98 to 100, wherein the opening and the wedge are tapered.

102. The method according to any one of claims 98 to 101, wherein the wedge has a flange portion located outside the opening.

103. The method according to any one of claims 98 to 102, wherein the belt clamp is provided with teeth that contact the belt.

104. A device for securing a cable to a cam, A first portion that is inserted into the notch of the cam, comprising two cable slots for holding two cables inserted from a first direction, A second part extending directly above the first part, A second part having an elongated cable slot for holding another cable inserted from a second direction, Two support walls extending downward from the second portion, spaced apart to accommodate a part of the cam, Instruments including...

105. The device according to claim 104, wherein the two cable slots and the elongated cable slot have a wide portion and a narrow portion for inserting and securing a ball-end cable.

106. The apparatus according to claim 104 or claim 105, wherein the second portion further comprises a through hole extending perpendicular to the elongated slot, and the two support walls are traversed by another through hole.

107. The device according to any one of claims 104 to 106, wherein a fastener is inserted into the through hole to prevent the ball end cable from coming out of the elongated cable slot.

108. The device according to any one of claims 104 to 107, wherein a fastener is inserted into the other through hole in order to fix the two support walls to the cam.

109. The apparatus according to any one of claims 104 to 108, wherein the first portion is similar in shape to a flat rectangle.

110. The apparatus according to any one of claims 104 to 109, wherein the second portion is similar in shape to an elongated rectangle.

111. A method for securing a cable to a cam, From the first direction, insert the two ball-end cables into the two adjacent slots of the first part of the cable key, From the second direction, insert another ball-end cable into the elongated slot of the second part of the cable key, Inserting the first portion into the notch of the cam, Positioning a part of the cam so as to fit between two side walls extending from the second portion of the cable key, Methods that include...

112. The method according to claim 111, further comprising fastening the cable key to the cam through through holes located in the two side walls.

113. The method according to any one of claims 111 or 112, further comprising fastening a screw through a second through-hole located in the second portion for securing the other ball cable in the elongated slot.

114. The method according to any one of claims 111 to 113, wherein the first portion is similar in shape to a flat rectangle.

115. The method according to any one of claims 111 to 114, wherein the second portion is similar in shape to an elongated rectangle.

116. A device for clamping a belt to a cam, A first part having a curved surface, A second portion is positioned adjacent to the first portion, wherein the upper surface of the second portion has substantially the same curvature as the curved surface, and the upper surface and the curved surface are configured to clamp the belt. A third portion is positioned adjacent to the second portion, and the third portion and the second portion are configured to be clamped to the cam, The first part, the second part, and the third part are fastened to the cam in the device.

117. The apparatus according to claim 116, wherein screw threads are formed in one or more of the one or more through holes.

118. The apparatus according to claim 116 or claim 117, wherein the one or more through holes in the semi-cylindrical portion are stepped.

119. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 118, further comprising one or more teeth protruding from the curved surface.

120. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 119, further comprising one or more teeth protruding from the upper surface.

121. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 120, wherein the teeth on the curved surface are offset from the teeth on the upper surface.

122. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 121, wherein the number of teeth is greater than 1 and less than 10.

123. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 122, wherein the shape of the first part is semi-cylindrical.

124. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 123, wherein the shape of the second part is arc-shaped.

125. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 124, wherein the third portion is similar to a plate.

126. The apparatus according to any one of claims 116 to 125, wherein each of the first part, the second part, and the third part is provided with one or more through holes through which one or more fasteners extend.

127. A method of clamping a belt to a cam, The third part is inserted into the first notch of the cam, Inserting a second portion into a second notch located adjacent to the first notch, wherein the second notch is located on the outer edge of the cam, Positioning the belt along the outer surface of the cam and the upper surface of the second portion, Positioning the first portion above the second portion and on the upper part of the belt, The first part, the second part, the third part, the belt, and the cam are all fastened together. Methods that include...

128. The first part, the second part, the third part, the belt, and the cam are fastened together. Aligning one or more through holes in the first part, the second part, and the third part, Inserting a fastener into the aforementioned through hole, The method according to claim 127, including the method described in claim 127.

129. The method according to either claim 127 or claim 128, wherein a screw thread is formed in one or more of the one or more through holes.

130. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 129, wherein the one or more through holes of the semi-cylindrical plate are stepped.

131. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 130, further comprising one or more teeth protruding from the semi-cylindrical plate.

132. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 131, further comprising one or more teeth protruding from the arc-shaped plate.

133. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 132, wherein the teeth of the semi-cylindrical plate and the arc-shaped plate are offset.

134. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 133, wherein the number of teeth is greater than 1 and less than 10.

135. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 134, wherein the shape of the first part is semi-cylindrical.

136. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 135, wherein the shape of the second part is arc-shaped.

137. The method according to any one of claims 127 to 136, wherein the third portion is similar to a plate.

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