Automated and portable pilates reformers

Abstract

An automated reformer with a gear-based resistance system, comprising a worm wheel, worm shaft, and gear box, wherein the resistance exerted on the carriage as it moves along the length of the bed frame can be automatically adjusted by the user using a controller. One embodiment including a folding carriage, featuring one or more linear actuators which allow users to adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform, leg support platform, and / or head support of the carriage via a dashboard or remote control.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 667,497 filed on Jul. 3, 2024 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 761,567 filed on Feb. 21, 2025. The contents of each of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to exercise equipment for resistance training and more particularly to Pilates reformers that may be used during Pilates exercise.BACKGROUND

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Pilates exercise is a type of low-impact strength training exercise that also works to improve postural alignment and flexibility. Pilates exercise is particularly helpful for individuals looking to improve their core strength and functional movement, including balance, stability, and mobility. As such, Pilates exercise is frequently prescribed to help address physical dysfunction or injury and to condition the body.

[0005] The traditional Pilates reformer, an integral part of practicing Pilates, is an exercise machine that uses springs to provide increased resistance and intensity to Pilates exercises. However, traditional Pilates reformer designs pose several challenges to beginners, individuals with injuries, individuals with limited mobility, and the elderly.

[0006] One challenge is that traditional Pilates reformers require users to manually adjust the resistance exerted on the carriage by connecting or disconnecting springs to achieve the desired resistance. Setting the correct resistance can be particularly confusing for beginners. Also, for beginners, the elderly, and those with limited strength, mobility, and / or injuries, it can be challenging and disruptive to have to stand up, remove the platform extender to expose the spring bar, and manually swap the springs in between exercises.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an automated Pilates reformer whose resistance can be safely and conveniently adjusted by users in between exercises, thereby accommodating a broader range of fitness levels and workout intensities.

[0008] Yet another challenge is that traditional Pilates reformers have carriages that are flat and parallel to the ground and cannot be adjusted to provide additional support to the back or legs of users that need such accommodations due to physical limitations. In addition, adjustment of traditional exercise devices can be difficult, confusing, and or impractical for many individuals to undertake. For those with limited strength, mobility, and / or injuries, it can be very difficult, if not impossible to lift themselves up off the flat carriage without the need for assistance.

[0009] As such, there is also a need for a reformer that includes improved functionality to allow users to easily manipulate, adjust, and / or modify aspects of the exercise device, such as the relative positioning of the carriages.SUMMARY

[0010] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0011] The present disclosure provides an automated reformer for resistance training and more particularly to practice Pilates exercises. According to some embodiments, the automated Pilates reformer includes a gear-based resistance system which allows the user to automatically adjust resistance levels using a controller, eliminating the need to manually engage or disengage springs to vary the resistive force exerted on the carriage when performing an exercise.

[0012] In some embodiments, the gear-based resistance system, includes one or more worm wheels configured to engage a worm shaft that is coupled to a gear box. The driving force exerted on the carriage by the user during an exercise is mechanically transferred from the worm wheel to the worm shaft causing the worm shaft to rotate as the carriage moves along the length of the base frame. As the worm shaft rotates, the gear box exerts a resistive force which will vary depending on the spur gears engaged within the gear box.

[0013] In other embodiments, the automated Pilates reformer includes a folding carriage, featuring one or more linear actuators, operated using an electronic control system, which allows users to adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform, leg support platform, and / or head support of the carriage via a dashboard physically located on the automated Pilates reformer or via remote control. By adjusting the angle of incline of the back support platform, leg support platform, and / or head support, more support can be provided to the user which can help avoid injuries and can assist users who are having difficulty doing certain exercises and require modifications due to physical limitations such as injuries or fitness level.

[0014] In some embodiments, a portable reformer apparatus is provided. The portable reformer apparatus may be configured for performing Pilates exercises. The portable reformer apparatus may include a frame comprising a first platform, a second platform, and a third platform, the first platform and the third platform configured to fold relative to the second platform. The reformer apparatus may also include a foot rest rotatably coupled to the frame and a carriage bed coupled to the frame and configured to slide relative to the frame. The reformer apparatus may also include a resistance system coupled to the frame and to the carriage bed and including at least one tension band. The resistance system may be configured to apply a resistance force to the carriage bed when the carriage bed is translated in a direction away from the foot rest, wherein the portable reformer apparatus is configured to change from an operable position in which exercises are performed to a storage position in which the portable reformer apparatus is stored during periods of non-use.

[0015] In one aspect, the first platform may be configured to fold flat against a first side of the second platform and the third platform is configured to fold flat against a second side of the second platform opposite to the first side.

[0016] In another aspect, the foot rest may be rotatably coupled to the first platform and the foot rest configured to rotate into a gap between the first platform and the third platform when the portable reformer is in the storage position.

[0017] In another aspect, the first platform has a first length, the second platform has a second length, and the third platform has a third length and an overall length of the portable reformer apparatus is approximately equal to or greater than a combination of the first length, the second length, and the third length, and a folded length of the portable reformer apparatus is approximately equal to the second length.

[0018] In another aspect, the resistance system may also include at least one tension selector, the at least one tension selector comprising a handle projecting outwardly from the frame, the at least one tension selector configured to adjust the resistance force.

[0019] In another aspect, the tension selector may be positioned in an adjustment slot of the second platform, the adjustment slot comprising a plurality of selector positions corresponding to different resistance levels of the resistance force.

[0020] In another aspect, each selector position comprises a hook shape.

[0021] In another aspect, a first end of at least one tension band may be connected to the at least one tension selector, and a second end of the at least one tension band is connected to the carriage bed.

[0022] In another aspect, one or more roller guides may be connected to the frame, the at least one tension band routed over the one or more roller guides.

[0023] In another aspect, the frame may have a hollow rectangular shape and the at least one tension band and the one or more roller guides are positioned inside a hollow cavity of the frame.

[0024] In another aspect, the carriage bed may include at least one tension lock, the at least one tension lock extending into the frame and connected to the at least one tension band.

[0025] In another aspect, the carriage bed may include a plurality of rollers configured to be received in wheel guides in the frame to guide the carriage bed in a linear direction.

[0026] In another aspect, the carriage bed may include a pair of shoulder rests configured to move from a stored position to a deployed position, the shoulder rests extending away from the carriage bed in the deployed position.

[0027] In another aspect, each of the first platform, the second platform, and the third platform may include a removable cover member.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present disclosure an automated reformer is provided. The automated reformer may include a base frame having a first end and a second end, a carriage coupled to the base frame and movable along the length of the bed frame, including: a back support platform pivotably coupled to the carriage, a head rest, a leg support platform pivotably coupled to the carriage, and a fixed platform positioned between the back support platform and the leg support platform. The automated reformer may also include a first linear actuator coupled to the back support platform and arranged to exert a force on the back support platform relative to the carriage wherein the force causes the back support platform to rotate relative to the carriage to achieve a desired inclined position, a second linear actuator coupled to the leg support platform and arranged to exert a force on the leg support platform relative to the carriage wherein the force causes the leg support platform to rotate relative to the carriage to achieve a desired inclined position, and a control system communicable with the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator, wherein the control system is configured to control the first linear actuator to adjust the angle of incline of the back support relative to the carriage and to control the second linear actuator to adjust the angle of incline of the leg support relative to the carriage.

[0029] In one aspect, the automated reformer may also include a gear-based resistance system including: a worm wheel rotatably mounted to the underside of the carriage, a gear box, a worm shaft having a first end coupled to the gear box and second end rotatably coupled to the base frame, and a resistance control communicable with the gear box configured to vary the resistance exerted by the gear box on the carriage as the carriage is moved along the length of the bed frame by a user.

[0030] In another aspect, the resistance control may be mechanically coupled to the gear box via a cable, and movement of the cable causes the resistance to vary.

[0031] In another aspect, the resistance control may be electronically coupled to the gear box.

[0032] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a reformer apparatus may include a base frame, a carriage movable positioned on the base frame for performing Pilates exercises, and a push knob assembly coupled to the base frame and the carriage, the push knob configured to change a resistance force applied during movement of the carriage relative to the base frame. The push knob assembly may include at least one spring coupled to the carriage, and at least one push knob, the push knob configured to move from a retracted position to an extended position, the push knob coupled to the spring when in the extended position and disengaged from the spring when in the retracted position.

[0033] In one aspect, the push knob assembly may include five or more springs and fifteen or more push knobs.

[0034] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0035] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0037] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the underside of an automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0038] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a portion of an automated reformer with some aspects shown as transparent to illustrate internal elements of the automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an end of an automated Pilates reformer showing a gear box and carriage retractor, according to some embodiments

[0040] FIG. 3C is a top view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 3B, according to some embodiments.

[0041] FIG. 4A is a sectional side view of an automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0042] FIG. 4B is another sectional side view of the automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0043] FIG. 4C is another sectional side view of the automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the underside of the carriage of an automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the carriage of an automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0046] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an automated Pilates reformer control system, according to some embodiments.

[0048] FIG. 9 is an illustration of an example user interface that may be used in connection with the automated Pilates reformer, according to some embodiments.

[0049] FIG. 10 is an illustration of an example remote control that may be used to control aspects of the automated Pilates reformers of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments.

[0050] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of another automated Pilates reformer of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 12 is a bottom isometric view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 11.

[0052] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 11.

[0053] FIG. 14 is a view of a bottom of an example carriage showing aspects of a Pilates reformer that may be incorporated into the automated Pilates reformers of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments.

[0054] FIG. 15 is another view showing aspects of an example push knob assembly of the automated Pilates reformers of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments.

[0055] FIG. 16 is another view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 11 showing aspects of the example push knob assembly of the automated Pilates reformers of the present disclosure, according to some embodiments.

[0056] FIG. 17 is a cut-away view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 11 showing aspects of the example push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0057] FIG. 18 is a side sectional view of the automated Pilates reformer of FIG. 11 showing aspects of the example push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0058] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example reformer control system that may be used in some automated Pilates reformers that include a push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0059] FIG. 20 is an illustration of an example dashboard that may be used in automated Pilates reformers that include a push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0060] FIG. 21 is another illustration of an example dashboard that may be used in automated Pilates reformers that include a push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0061] FIG. 22 is another illustration of an example dashboard that may be used in automated Pilates reformers that include a push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0062] FIG. 23 is an illustration of an example remote control that may be used in automated Pilates reformers that include a push knob assembly, according to some embodiments.

[0063] FIG. 24 is an illustration of an example portable Pilates reformer in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 25 is an illustration of a top side the reformer of FIG. 24 shown in a storage configuration.

[0065] FIG. 26 is an illustration of a bottom side the reformer of FIG. 24 shown in a storage configuration.

[0066] FIG. 27 is another illustration of a bottom side the reformer of FIG. 24 shown in a storage configuration with the foot rest in a nested position.

[0067] FIG. 28 is another illustration of a bottom side the reformer of FIG. 24 shown in a storage configuration with the foot rest in an extended position.

[0068] FIG. 29 is a top view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24.

[0069] FIG. 30 is a bottom view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24.

[0070] FIG. 31 is a side view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24 showing an example tension selector mechanism.

[0071] FIG. 32 is a bottom view of a portion of the portable reformer of FIG. 24 shown with the cover removed to illustrate a tensioning assembly.

[0072] FIG. 33 is another bottom view of a portion of the portable reformer of FIG. 24 shown with the cover removed to illustrate a tensioning assembly.

[0073] FIG. 34 is another bottom view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24 shown with the cover removed to illustrate internal elements thereof.

[0074] FIG. 35 is another bottom view of a portion of the portable reformer of FIG. 24 shown with the cover transparent to illustrate internal elements thereof.

[0075] FIG. 36A is a bottom perspective view of an example carriage bed of the reformer of FIG. 24.

[0076] FIG. 36B is view of aspects of the carriage bed of FIG. 36A shown in the assembled state with the frame of the reformer of FIG. 24.

[0077] FIG. 37A is an illustration of an example shoulder rest of the reformer of FIG. 24.

[0078] FIG. 37B is an illustration of the shoulder rest of FIG. 37A shown assembled with an example carriage bed.

[0079] FIG. 38 is another bottom view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24.

[0080] FIG. 39 is an exploded view of the portable reformer of FIG. 24.

[0081] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an example portable reformer of the present disclosure shown with the carriage bed in a translated position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0083] Referring generally to the figures, an automated Pilates reformer is shown according to some embodiments. The automated Pilates reformer is designed to overcome obstacles faced by users when operating conventional Pilates reformer machines, especially the elderly or those with limited mobility.

[0084] In some embodiments, the automated Pilates reformer may include a gear-based resistance system which allows the user to adjust resistance levels using a controller, such as a knob dial or equivalent, located on the automated Pilates reformer without having to manually engage or disengage springs to vary the resistive force exerted on the carriage when the user performs an exercise. By allowing users to easily and conveniently adjust the resistance levels of the gear-based resistance system, the automated Pilates reformer is able to accommodate a broader range of users with different fitness levels and physical limitations.

[0085] In some embodiments, the automated Pilates reformer may include a folding carriage, featuring one or more linear actuators, operated using an electronic control system, which allows users to adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform, leg support platform, and / or head support of the carriage via a dashboard physically located on the automated Pilates reformer or via remote control. By adjusting the angle of incline of the back support platform, leg support platform, and / or head support, more support can be provided to the user which can help avoid injuries and can assist users who are having difficulty doing certain exercises and require modifications due to physical limitations such as injuries or fitness level.

[0086] The reformers of the present disclosure are improvements over traditional and / or existing Pilates reformers in that the reformers of the present disclosure require less training and less physical requirements than traditional Pilates reformers. Instead of a user needing to physically sit up and reach to an end of the reformer to physically couple and / or decouple springs or other biasing elements from the carriage and / or frame of the reformer, the Pilates reformers of the present disclosure can be manipulated via the touch of a button, dial, or other user interface to change a resistance level and / or a position of the carriage. Thus, the Pilates reformers of the present disclosure may be more easily used by individuals with limited mobility, low levels of experience with a Pilates reformer machine. Furthermore, the modification to the Pilates reformer may be made more quickly than with traditional or existing Pilates reformers.

[0087] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an automated reformer 100 is shown, according to some embodiments. The automated reformer 100 may include a carriage 102 coupled to a base frame 104. The carriage 102 may be moveable along the length of the base frame 104 from a first end 128 of the base frame 104 to a second end 130 of the base frame 104.

[0088] The carriage 102 may translate along a length of the base frame 104 to allow a user to perform exercises. A user may be positioned on the carriage 102 in various positions to perform various exercises that may target different muscles and / or different muscle groups. The carriage 102 may include shoulder supports 124 coupled to a back support platform 106. The shoulder supports 124 may project upwardly from the surface of the back support platform 106 and may be shaped to interface with the shoulders of user. The shoulder supports 124 may be padded and / or contoured for a comfortable fit with the user. The reformer 100 may also include a foot bar 120 coupled to the base frame 104, and a platform extension 114. The foot bar 120 may include two upright supports that extend upward from the base frame 104. A transversely oriented member may be connected between the upright supports to form a rigid member located at a desired location over the carriage 102. In some example exercises, a user lying on the carriage 102 can exert a force on the shoulder supports 124 by pushing the user's feet against the foot bar 120 causing the carriage 102 to glide along the length of the base frame 104 between a first end 128 of the base frame 104 toward a second end 130 of the base frame 104.

[0089] The platform extension 114 may be positioned at or near the first end 128 of the reformer 100 and be configured as a housing or cover that at least partially surrounds or covers a gear mechanism of the reformer 100. The platform extension 114 may have various shapes and in the example shown, has a substantially smooth surface that may be aligned with the surfaces of the carriage 102.

[0090] While not shown, the reformer 100 may also include one or more attachments and / or accessories to allow traditional Pilates exercises to be performed such as pulleys, straps, and / or ropes. Such pulleys, straps, and / or ropes may be mounted to extensions that may extend upwards from the base frame 104. The pulleys, straps, and / or ropes may allow, for example, a user to pull on the ropes and / or straps to move the carriage relative to the base frame 104 in some exercise movements.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 2, depicting a perspective view of the underside of the automated reformer 100, the automated reformer 100 may include a gear-based resistance system 200, including a gear box 202 and a worm shaft 210 each coupled to the base frame 104. The gear box 202 may be positioned at or near the first end 128 of the reformer 100 under the platform extension 114. The worm shaft 210 may extend longitudinally from the gear box 202 to the second end 130 of the reformer. The worm shaft 210 may be rotatable along its longitudinal axis. A force required to rotate the worm shaft 210 may be adjustable via interaction with the gear box 202.

[0092] One or more worm wheels 208 may be rotatably mounted to the underside of the carriage 102, and be coupled to the worm shaft 210. In the example shown, the carriage 102 includes two worm wheels 208 each positioned at opposite longitudinal ends of the carriage 102 along at a centered position on the carriage 102. Each worm wheel 208 may include a plurality of teeth along a circumference of the wheel with sizing and spacing that is complimentary to the helical shaped groove in the worm shaft 210. In this manner, movement of the carriage 102 results in rotation of the worm shaft 210 as the worm wheels 208 interact with the worm shaft 210.

[0093] The worm shaft 210 may extend from a first end 212 coupled to the gear box 202 to a second end 214 rotatably coupled to the base frame 104. The worm wheels 208 are configured such that they engage the worm shaft 210 allowing the driving force exerted on the carriage 102 by the user during an exercise to be mechanically transferred from the worm wheels 208 to the worm shaft 210 causing the worm shaft 210 to rotate as the carriage moves along the length of the base frame 104. As the worm shaft 210 rotates, the gear box 202 exerts a resistive force which will vary depending on the spur gears 204 engaged within the gear box 202, each combination of which results in different gear ratios with different resistances.

[0094] In other examples, the carriage 102 may be coupled to the gear box 202 or other resistive force mechanism via other structures other than the worm shaft 210 and the worm wheels 208 previously described. In other examples, a rack and pinion mechanism may be provided to transfer the resistive force to the carriage 102. In other examples, a ball screw system, a lead screw system or other suitable structure may be used that may transfer the resistive force to the carriage 102.

[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 3B and 3C, the automated reformer 100 may also include one or more mechanisms to cause the carriage 102 to move to an initial position. When performing exercises, a user may translate the carriage 102 along one or more rails of the base frame 104. During some exercises, a user may use one or more muscle groups (e.g., a user's legs) to move the carriage 102 from an initial position at or near the platform extension 114 to a second position away from the platform extension 114 toward the second end 130 of base frame 104. The user may then return the carriage to the initial position near the platform extension 114 before repeating the exercise movement.

[0096] The automated reformer 100 may include a retraction mechanism to cause the carriage 102 to move back toward the initial position after an exercise is performed. In the example shown, the automated reformer may include one or more cable reels 302. In this example, the automated reformer 100 may include two cable reels 302 with one mounted on each opposite side of the base frame 104. The cable reels 302 may include a coiled length of cable, rope, or other elongated member that can extend out of the cable reel 302 when a force is exerted on the cable. In this example, cable 306 may be extended out of either cable reel 302. A free end of the cable 306 may be connected to the carriage 102. In this example, the cable 306 may include a hook 308 that can be removably connected to an eyelet 304 on the carriage 102. In other examples, other hooks, carabineers, connectors, loops, fasteners, couplings, or the like may be used to connect the cable 306 to the carriage 102.

[0097] When the cable 306 is connected to the carriage 102, the cable 306 will extend out of the cable reel 302 as the carriage 102 moves away from the gear box 202. The coil inside the cable reel 302 may include a torsion spring or other biasing element that exerts a force on the spool in the cable reel to cause the cable to be coiled and retracted into the cable reel 302. Thus, the cable 306 may pull the carriage 102 in a direction back toward the gear box 202 when the user does not exert a force on the carriage 102 in a direction away from the gear box 202. The carriage 102 is biased to move in a direction toward the gear box 202 when the cables 306 are connected to the carriage 102.

[0098] In other examples, other biasing mechanisms may be used to retract the carriage 102 to an initial position. In addition, the cable reels 302 may be positioned at different locations or may be reversed such that cable reels 302 are connected to the carriage 102 and the cables 306 are connected to the base frame 104. In still other examples, other configurations may be used.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the automated reformer 100 may also include a resistance control 118 coupled to the base frame 104. The resistance control 118 may be positioned in an outer lateral surface of the base frame 104. At this position, a user laying on the carriage 102 may easily reach and manipulate the resistance control 118 during exercise. The resistance control knob 118 allows the user to select the resistance level it desires to be provided by the automated reformer 100, i.e., the resistive force on the carriage 102 generated by the gear-based resistance system 200 when the user exerts a driving force on the carriage 102 during exercise causing the carriage 102 to glide along the length of the base frame 104. The resistance control 118 is configured to be communicable with the gear box 202 such that the gear setting of the gear box 202 is automatically changed in response to the resistance level selected by the user.

[0100] The resistance control 118 may be a dial, knob, lever, switch, button, or other controller configured to be communicable to the gear box 202. The resistance control 118 may be coupled to the base frame 104 within arm's reach of the user to allow users to seamlessly adjust resistance levels while positioned on the carriage during exercise. The resistance control 118 may be electrically coupled to the gear box 202. In some examples, a wired connection couples the resistance control 118 to the gear box 202. In other examples, the resistance control 118 may be coupled to the gear box 202 via a wireless connection such a Bluetooth, local area network, Wi-Fi, or the like.

[0101] In still other examples, the resistance control 118 may be mechanically coupled to the gear box 202. A cable may be connected at one end to the resistance control 118 and a second end of the cable may be coupled to the gear box 202. The cable may be covered by a sheathing or outer layer such that the cable moves internally in the sheathing. As the resistance control 118 is moved, the cable also moves and may change a resistance level in the gear box. The cable may, for example, engage or disengage different sized gears so as to change a resistance level of the worm shaft 210. In some examples, the gears may be sized so as to variably change a resistance level of the worm shaft. In one example, the gears may allow a resistance level to be transferred to a linear force required to move the carriage 102. The gear box 202 may be configured to cause a force required to move the carriage 102 to be in a range of approximately zero pounds (i.e., no additional resistance) to approximately 480 pounds. The resistance, in one example, may be changed in increments of approximately 30 pounds that may be multiplied up to 16 times using the gear box 202. In other examples, other resistance levels may be achieved and other increments may be used.

[0102] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the resistance control 118 is also configured to be communicable with a dashboard 122. The dashboard 122 may be positioned on the reformer 100 and may include a screen, display, or other indicator that may provide information regarding one or more settings of the reformer 100. The dashboard 122 may also include one or more different graphic user interfaces that may display information to the user using one or more graphs, text displays, dynamic displays that may change during user of the reformer. The dashboard 122, in one example, may include a display that shows a resistance setting, a position of the carriage 102, a timer, a power display, and / or other displays. In some examples, the reformer 100 may include various sensors, such as positional sensors, proximity sensors, hall-effect sensors, optical sensors, or the like that may provide information regarding positions, and / or settings of the reformer. The reformer 100 may include a sensor that may be configured to obtain data identifying the resistance level selected using the resistance control 118 in order to communicate resistance setting information to the dashboard 122 which may be configured to display the resistance level selected at any given time.

[0103] While not shown, the dashboard 122 may be provided via a cloud-based or local software tool that may allow a user to obtain information from the reformer via a computing device such as a laptop, desktop, tablet, smartphone, voice-assisted computing device, or the like. The reformer 100 may include a local computing device that may be coupled to a communication network and / or the internet to pass information regarding an operation and / or use of the reformer to the user and / or to a dashboard 122 located remotely from the reformer 100.

[0104] Turning now to FIG. 3A, the gearbox 202 may be coupled to the base frame 104 at the first end 128 beneath the platform extension 114. The platform extension 114 (shown transparent in FIG. 3A) may be removable and acts as a protective covering for the gear box 202. Once positioned at the first end 128 of the automated reformer 100, platform extension 114 also functions as a stable extended platform that the user can stand on or otherwise use during exercise.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 4, the carriage 102 may include one or more pairs of horizontal rollers 206 located on either lateral side of the carriage 102. The rollers 206 may limit and / or minimize any lateral movement of the carriage 102 as it glides along the length of the base frame 104. The horizontal rollers 206 may be rotatably mounted to the underside of the carriage 102. The carriage 102 may also include one or more pairs of vertical rollers 406 to help smooth the movement of the carriage 102 as it glides along the length of the base frame 104. The vertical rollers 406 may also rotatably mounted to the underside of the carriage 102.

[0106] In some embodiments, the base frame 104 may include guides 404, such as channels, tracks, railing etc. to engage the horizontal rollers 206 and / or the vertical rollers 406 such that the carriage 102 is restrained to the base frame 104 allowing the carriage 102 to glide smoothly along the base frame 104 preventing vertical or lateral movement of the carriage 102 relative to the base frame 104.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 5, the carriage 102 may include a chassis 504. The chassis 504 may include one or more support members and may be arranged to form a rigid platform to which other elements of the carriage 102 may be attached. The chassis 504 may be formed of multiple aluminum beams, such as rectangular tubing. The chassis 504 may be bolted and / or welded together, in some examples. The worm wheels 208 may be rotatably mounted to the carriage 102. The worm wheels 208 may be rotatably mounted using a nut and bolt 502 or similar fastener or axle that allows the worm wheel 208 to rotate about an axis affixed to the carriage 102.

[0108] As shown in FIGS. 1, 4 and 7, the carriage 102 includes a back support platform 106, a leg support platform 108, a fixed platform 110, and a head support 112, each of which may be pivotably coupled to the carriage 102 and configured to articulate to a range of inclined positions, allowing users to select the angle most comfortable to them, target different muscle groups by modifying the exercises, and / or to make the exercises more challenging.

[0109] While not shown, the carriage 102 may also include other moveable elements that may be used to perform particular exercise and / or to target particular muscles. In some example, the carriage 102 may include a box that may be raised or lowered relative to the surface of the carriage 102. The box may be positioned, for example, in or near the leg support platform 108. The box may be vertically raised to be positioned as a raised seat. Such a seat or box may be useful in performing certain exercises. The box may be manually raised and lowered in some examples. In other examples, the box may be coupled to an actuator that may raise or lower the box relative to the carriage 102 by the user using the remote control 116. In other examples, a spring board attachment may also be included. The spring board may project upwards from the carriage removable so that it can be used as desired by the user. The spring board attachment may include various hooks, loops, or other attachments to which various springs, resistance bands, bars, handles or other attachments may be removably connected to perform various exercises.

[0110] In still other embodiments, the carriage 102 may be configured to rotate or tilt relative to longitudinal axis. In such embodiments, a user that is positioned on the carriage 102 may be able to manually rotate the carriage longitudinally to perform desired exercises and / or target particular muscles. In still other examples, one or both of the lateral edges of the carriage 102 may be configured to raise to allow the carriage 102 to be angled longitudinally. Rather than being oriented horizontally, the user may orient his or her body at an angle by tilting or rotating the carriage.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the automated reformer 100 includes a carriage folding assembly 400, featuring one or more linear actuators 402, each of which is configured to vary the angle of incline of the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, or head support 112 of the carriage 102. One end of the linear actuators 402 may be attached to the chassis 504. An opposite end of each of the linear actuators 402 may be coupled to a corresponding support on the carriage 102. The actuator 402 may be controlled to lengthen or shorten based on input from the user to correspondingly incline or decline the corresponding support, such as the leg support platform 108, the head support 112, and the back support platform 106. The leg support 108, the head support 112, and / or the back support may be inclined at various angles. In some instances, the leg support 108 and the back support 106 may be inclined at angles in a range of about 0 degrees (horizontal) to about 45 degrees. The head support 112 may be inclined as well and may be angled in a range of about 5 degrees to about 10 degrees. In other examples, other ranges may be used.

[0112] The actuators and control of the movement of the elements of the carriage may be limited in some examples. It may be desirable to position the various elements of the carriage 102 at predetermined angles to perform certain exercises. It may also be desirable to limit the amount of angle that carriage support may be positioned. For example, it may be desirable to limit the amount of incline for the head support 112. Excessive incline of the head during exercise may cause damage to a user or cause discomfort. It may be desirable, therefore, to limit the amount of incline for the leg support 108, back support 106, and / or head support 112. In some examples, the limits of such supports may be customized for a particular user according to preferences, limitations due to injury, limitations due to physical variations between users, and the like.

[0113] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, and / or head support 112 are pivotably coupled to the carriage 102 using a joint assembly 602, including a hinge or other mechanism allowing the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, and / or head support 112 to rotate relative to the carriage 102 to achieve a desired incline angle.

[0114] In some embodiments, a first end of linear actuator 402 is pivotably coupled to the underside of the carriage 102 to chassis 504, and a second end of the linear actuator 402 is pivotably coupled to the underside of the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, or head support 112 of the carriage 102, such that the linear actuator 402 is arranged to exert a force between the chassis 504 and the on the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, or head support 112 of the carriage 102.

[0115] Each of the back support assembly 410, the leg support assembly 412, and / or the head support assembly may be configured to pivot and / or move the respective support to a desired angle relative to horizontal. In the example shown, the back support assembly 410 may include a linear actuator 402, a back linkage 416, and a back hinge 418. The actuator 402 may be fixed to the chassis 504 and to the back linkage 416. When the actuator 402 extends, the elongated actuator moves the back linkage 416 that, in turn, moves the back hinge 418. The back hinge 418 is connected to the back support platform 106 that angles upward toward a desired angle relative to horizontal. As shown in FIG. 4A, the back hinge 418 hinges upward to move the back support platform 106 to the desired angle A.

[0116] Similarly, the leg support assembly 412 may include linear actuator 402, leg linkage 420, and leg hinge 422. When the actuator 402 extends, the elongated actuator moves the leg linkage 420 that, in turn, moves the leg hinge 422. The leg hinge 422 is connected to the leg support platform 108 that angles upward toward a desired angle relative to horizontal. As shown in FIG. 4B, the leg hinge 422 is in a position with the leg support platform 108 at a desired angle B relative to horizontal. The head support assembly may also include similar functionality and a similar structure to allow the head support platform 112 to be moved to a desired angle relative to horizontal.

[0117] The carriage folding assembly 400 is communicable with the dashboard 122 which may be used by the user to adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, or head support 112 of the carriage 102. In various examples, the angle of incline of the back support platform 106, the leg support platform 108, and the head support 112 may be adjusted in a range between approximately 75 degrees relative to horizontal to approximately 0 degrees (i.e., at horizontal). In some examples, the linear actuators 402 may have predetermined settings that may be desired for particular exercises and configurations. For example, a predetermined setting for an angle of incline may be at 15 degrees, 30 degrees, and or 45 degrees relative to horizontal. In other examples, other predetermined incline angles may be used.

[0118] The linear actuators 402 may also have settings, programs, or limits that can be used for particular exercises, be customized for a particular user, or can be implemented to prevent injury or undesirable configurations. Some settings may be correlated with a particular exercise. For example, a particular exercise (rather than a position of the linear actuator) may be selected by a user on the remote control 116 and / or the dashboard 122. When a particular exercise is selected, the linear actuator may be positioned to angle a desired carriage platform to a predetermined position. In another example, a particular user may have a condition or limitation that makes certain positioned undesirable. For example, a user may have a back injury or limitation such that inclines over a particular amount could present a risk of injury. In such instances, the reformer may implement a limit on the linear actuator 402 to prevent the actuator 402 from moving the carriage platform to an undesirable position.

[0119] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the automated reformer 100 is also shown as including a remote control 116 and a remote control holder 126 coupled to the base frame 104. The remote control 116 is communicable to the carriage folding assembly 400 such that the user can adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, or head support 112 of the carriage 102 via the remote control 116. The remote control 116 may be removable from the base frame 104 and / or fixedly coupled to the base frame 104. In the example shown, the remote control 116 and the resistance control 118 are separate controls. In other examples, the remote control 116 and the resistance control 118 may be combined into a single control.

[0120] Referring now to FIG. 8, the automated reformer's 100 may include a reformer control system 800. The reformer control system 800 may be configured to control the carriage folding assembly 400 and implement the functionality described in the present disclosure. The system 800 may include a power supply 802, one or more relays 804, one or more fuses 806, a microcontroller 808, a switch 810, and a display 812. The microcontroller 808 may be various suitable controllers such as a logic integrated circuit, a PLC (programmable logic controller), a computing device, or the like. The microcontroller 808 may include a processor and non-transitory memory that may allow the microcontroller to perform functions as a result of executable instructions that may be delivered to the microcontroller 808 and / or stored in the memory of the microcontroller 808. The power supply 802 may be a battery or a power cord configured to connect to an electric outlet to receive electricity. The control system 800 may be communicate with the linear actuator(s) 402 and configured to adjust the angle of incline of the back support platform 106, leg support platform 108, and / or head support 112 to rotate relative to the carriage 102.

[0121] While not shown in FIG. 8, the reformer control system 800 may also be coupled to the gear box 222 and to the resistance control 118. Thus, the microcontroller 808 may be operable to control the functionality to perform and adjust the reformer 100 to perform various exercises. In addition, the microcontroller 808 may be operable to implement the functionality described in the present disclosure.

[0122] Referring now to FIG. 9, an example user interface 900 is shown. The user interface 900 may be displayed on the dashboard 122 for example. In other embodiments, the user interface 900 may be displayed on a user device, smartphone, computing device, or other display. The user interface 900 may include an incline position display 902 and a tension display 904. The position display 902 may display a current angle of incline of the back support 106, the leg support 108, and the head support 112. The position display 902 may display the incline in degrees. The position display 902 may also include incline adjustors located above and below the incline angle number. Shown as arrows above and below the 0° in user interface 900, the incline adjustors may be pressed by a user to adjust the incline of the back support 106, the leg support 108, and the head support 112. The position display 902 may show a current angle of incline and change as the support moves on the reformer 100.

[0123] Referring now to FIG. 10, an example remote control 1000 is shown. The remote control 1000 may operate as previously described with respect to remote control 116. The remote control 1000 may include an incline display 1002 and adjustors 1004. The incline display 1002 and adjustors 1004 may operate as previously described with respect to user interface 900 to display a current angle of incline for the back support 106, the leg support 108, and the head support 112. The adjustors 1004 may be used by the user to adjust an angle of incline for the back support 106, the leg support 108, and the head support 112.

[0124] In addition to the apparatuses described herein, various methods are contemplated. In some examples, a method of adjusting a reformer is provided. The method may include the steps of receiving, from a resistance control for example, a resistance indicator that may characterize a desired setting of a reformer. In response to receiving the resistance indicator, the reformer control system may automatically adjust a resistance of the reformer based on the resistance indicator. The reformer control system may, for example, disengage a first gear from a worm shaft and engage a second gear to the worm shaft. The second gear may correspond to a resistance setting described in the resistance indicator.

[0125] In another example, another method of adjusting a reformer is provided. The method may include a step of receiving a platform incline indicator. The platform incline indicator may characterize a desired position of a platform on the reformer. The platform indicator may be received from a remote control or other user input device. In other examples the incline indicator may be received according to a desired setting or limit of the reformer. In response to receiving the platform incline indicator, the reformer control system may send an incline control signal to one or more linear actuators. The linear actuator may extend or retract in accordance with the platform incline indicator to move a platform of the reformer to the desired incline position.

[0126] The methods described above may also include one or more steps directed to displaying and / or communicating a setting or position of the reformer to the user. The reformer control system may cause a resistance setting to be displayed on a computing device and / or dashboard. In other examples, the reformer control system may cause an incline position of one of the platforms of the reformer to be displayed on a computing device and / or dashboard. In still other examples, other information such as exercise time, power, frequency of motion, speed of motion, or other information regarding the operation of the reformer may be displayed or communicated to the user.

[0127] The automated reformers of the present disclosure may also include other functionality that may be used to perform other methods and / or assist users in performing exercise movements. The automated reformers and / or the reformer control systems of the present disclosure may include memory and / or allow communication with computing devices that may allow exercise information to be saved, accessed and / or implemented using the automated reformers.

[0128] In some examples, a user may create, save and use a user profile that may save exercises that are performed over time. A training plan may also be saved, created and implemented using the automated reformers. A user may, for example, create a training plan that describes particular exercises, a sequence of exercises, a resistance level for an exercise and the like. The training plan may then be implemented using the reformer control system of the automated reformer. In other examples, predetermined training plans may be available to a user and then be implemented using the automated reformers. The predetermined training plans may include beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of exercise. Upon successful completion of lower level training plans, the user may be able to access and implement the more advanced or more difficult training plans.

[0129] The reformer control systems may also be configured to implement limitations on the automated reformer. For example, a user may input a skill level, a physical limitation, or other limitation into the reformer control system. The control system may then automatically limit a resistance level or other movement of the automated reformer. For example, a user may have a neck injury. This information may be input in the reformer control system via an interface on a user's smartphone or other computing device. The reformer control system may limit the user's ability to raise the head support platform because such movement could cause or increase a likelihood of injury to the user's neck. The reformer control system may make other limitation in response to receiving other indications of injuries or in response to a user's input of size, height, weight, or other characteristic. In still other examples, the reformer control system may display warnings, automatically move the carriage, release resistance, and / or take other actions to limit or reduce likelihood of injury to the user.

[0130] Turning now to FIGS. 11 to 22, another embodiment of an automated reformer 1100 is provided. The automated reformer 1100 may have some features and / or functional that is similar or the same as that previously described with respect to automated reformer 100. For the sake of brevity, such similar structure and / or functionality is not described again below. It should be appreciated, however, that aspects and functionality of the automated reformer 100 (and its variations) may be incorporated into the automated reformer 1100.

[0131] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the automated reformer 1100 may have a similar structure to that described above. The automated reformer 1100 may have a base frame 1102, a carriage 1104, a bar 1106, and extension platform 1108, and a dashboard 1112. The carriage 1104 may include a head support, a back support, a fixed support, and a leg support. The head support, the back support, and / or the leg support may be configured to allow the user to incline such supports at an angle relative to horizontal as previously described. The carriage 1104 may translate along the base frame 1102 when performing exercises. The carriage 1104 in this example, however, may include a plurality of springs 1202 that are connected to the carriage 1104 and may also be automatically connected and released from the base frame 1102 using a push knob assembly 1200 that will be further described below. When one or more springs are connected to the base frame 1102, a resistive force is created when the user translates the carriage 1104 away from the bar 1106 in a direction toward the end 1116.

[0132] The automated reformer 1100 may also include the platform extension 1108 and the dashboard 1112. The platform extension 1108 may be located at an end of the reformer 1100. The platform extension 1108 may be positioned over the push knob assembly 1200. The dashboard 1112 may extend away from the platform extension 1108. The dashboard 1112 may include a screen or other display that may provide information to the user regarding the status of the automated reformer 1100. The dashboard 1112 may include information regarding a position of the various support platforms of the carriage 1104, such as the head support, the back support, the leg support, etc. The dashboard 1112 may also display a resistance setting or resistance level that is being applied to the carriage. As the resistance level is changed and / or set by the user, the dashboard 1112 may display such information to the user.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 12, the carriage 1104 may include a plurality of springs 1202 attached thereto that may be selectively connected to the base frame 1102 via the push knob assembly 1200. The push knob assembly 1200 may be automatically and / or electronically controlled via a reformer control system.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 13, the automated reformer 1100 may include various assemblies that are similar to the automated reformer 100 previously described. The reformer 1100 may include a support assembly 1300 that can move or incline the various supports of the carriage 102. The support assembly 1300 may include one or more actuators 1310, one or more linkages 1312, and one or more hinges 1314. The support assembly 1300 may also be controlled via the reformer control system.

[0135] The carriage 102 may also have a structure similar to the carriage previously described with respect to the reformer 100. The carriage 102 may be supported on a chassis 1304 that may be constructed of a metal tubing, such as aluminum rectangular or square tubing. The chassis 1304 may be configured to move in a pair of rails 1322 that extend longitudinally in the base frame 1102. The chassis 1304 may include one or more guide wheels that interface with the rails 1322 as the chassis 1304 moves in the base frame 1102.

[0136] Referring now to FIG. 14, a reformer chassis assembly 1400 is shown. The reformer chassis assembly 1400 may be used on a traditional reformer that uses traditional manual interaction by the user to implement changes to the resistance levels of the reformer. Aspects of the reformer chassis assembly 1400 may be included on the chassis 1304 of the automated reformer 1100. As shown, the reformer chassis assembly 1400 may include a plurality of springs 1404. The plurality of springs 1404 may be connected to the chassis assembly 1400 by an attachment bar or flange 1408. Each of the springs 1404 may be connected to the attachment bar 1408 via a bolt 1410. In other examples, other suitable fasteners such as a hook, eye bolt, ring, or the like may be used. Each spring of the plurality of springs 1404 may then extend away from the attachment bar 140 and extend beyond an edge of the chassis assembly 1400. Each spring in the plurality of springs 1404 may be supported by one or more spring supports 1402. The spring supports 1402 may be connected at each lateral side of the plurality of springs 1404 to the chassis assembly 1400. In this manner, the plurality of springs 1404 are supported such that each spring remains in a substantially horizontal position and remains in a generally linear orientation substantially parallel to a longitudinal direction of the reformer and in a direction substantially parallel to a direction of travel of the chassis assembly 1400.

[0137] As previously described, the chassis 1304 of the automated reformer 1100 may include aspects of the chassis assembly 1400. The chassis 1304, for example, may include the attachment bar 1408 and the spring supports 1402. As shown in FIG. 12, for example, the plurality of springs 1202 of the automated reformer 1100 may be arranged in a similar manner as that previously described so that each spring extends in a direction that is aligned with a longitudinal direction of the reformer 1100 and in a direction substantially parallel to the direction of travel of the chassis 1304 in the base frame 1102. While not shown in FIG. 12, the chassis 1304 may include one or more spring supports that support the springs 1202 in the orientation and position as previously described.

[0138] Referring now to FIGS. 15 to 18, further aspects of the push knob assembly 1200 are described. As described above, the push knob assembly 1200 may be positioned under the extension platform 1108. As further shown, the push knob assembly 1200 may include one or more push knobs 1512 coupled to one or more knob drivers 1510. The push knobs 1512 may be shaped as a cylindrical stem that moves upward and downward relative to the engagement plate 1514. The push knob 1512 may be moved between a retracted position in which the push knob is flush with or below the opening in the engagement plate 1514 to an extended position in which the push knob 1512 projects above the surface of the engagement plate 1514. As shown in FIG. 16, a first push knob 1516 is positioned in the extended position and the other two push knobs (located to the left of the extended push knob) are positioned in the retracted position.

[0139] In the extended position, the push knob 1512 may engage with the free end of the spring 1202. The push knob 1512 may extend into a ring at the free end of the spring 1202. In this manner, the spring 1202 may be captured between the carriage 1104 and the push knob 1512. A user may then move the carriage 1104 during an exercise movement and the spring 1202 will extend between the push knob 1512 and the carriage 1104 and exert a resistive force against the movement of the carriage 1104. The push knob 1512 may have a mushroom head or other shape at a top portion of the push knob 1512 to assist in maintaining engagement of the spring 1202 by the push knob 1512 as forces are applied during extension of the spring 1202. In other examples, the push knob 1512 may have other shapes such as a hook shape or curve to maintain engagement of the spring 1202.

[0140] The push knob assembly 1200 may also include one or more carriage stops 1508 and one or more stop drivers 1506. The carriage stops 1508 are configured to limit or stop movement of the carriage in a direction toward the engagement plate 1514. The carriage stops 1508 may operate in an extended position in which the carriage stop 1508 is positioned in a raised position relative to rail 1322. In the extended position, the carriage or a portion thereof will contact the carriage stop 1508 as it translates along the rail 1322. The carriage stop 1508 may also operate in a retracted position in which the carriage stop 1508 is in a position relative to the rail 1322 such that it will not impede movement of the carriage 1104 on the rail 1322.

[0141] The knob drivers 1510 may be coupled to the push knobs 1512 to move the push knobs between the retracted and the extended positions. The stop drivers 1506 may be coupled to the carriage stops 1508 to move the carriage stops 1508 between the retracted and the extended positions. The knob drivers 1510 and the stop drivers 1508 may be configured as solenoids, actuators, pneumatic cylinders, electrical cylinders, or other suitable motive devices that may cause a vertical movement of the respective push knob 1512 or carriage stop 1508. Each of the knob drivers 1510 and the stop drivers 1506 may be electrically coupled to the reformer control system to allow control of the resistance applied to the carriage 1104 during use.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 17, the push knob assembly 1200 may include a plurality of springs 1202 and an array of push knobs 1502. In the example shown, the push knob assembly 1200 may include five springs 1202 and fifteen push knobs 1502. In other examples, the push knob assembly 1200 may include other quantities of springs and other quantities of push knobs 1502. In this example, each of the springs 1202 may be engaged on one of three push knobs 1502 that is positioned in a respective row of push knobs 1502. As can be appreciated, when the spring 1202 is engaged on a push knob 1502 that is located closer to the dashboard 1112, the spring 1202 will experience longer elongation when the carriage is moved to the same relative location along the base frame 1102. Thus, an applied resistive force may be changed depending on whether the spring 1202 is engaged to the first, second, or third push knob in the same row of push knobs 1502.

[0143] In addition, applied resistive force may be changed by engaging more than one spring 1202 by its respective push knob 1502. For example, for a low-resistance exercise, a single spring 1202 may be engaged and used to exert a resistive force on the carriage 1104. For a high-resistance exercise, all five springs 1202 may be engaged by a respective push knob 1502 and used to exert a resistive force on the carriage 1104. By varying which push knob 1502 in a particular row is used and by varying a number of springs used, a resistance force can be varied. The springs 1202 may be chosen to have the same or different spring coefficients so as to exert different resistance forces per unit of elongation. In some examples, the springs 1202 and the number of push knobs 1502 are chosen and arranged to allow for a range of resistive force between about 10 pounds and about 500 pounds in increments of about 10 pounds. In other examples, other ranges of resistance force and different increments may be used.

[0144] The carriage 1104 may also include a home sensor 1520. The home sensor may be positioned on the carriage 1104 and coupled to the reformer control system. The home sensor 1520 may be a push button switch, proximity sensor, optical sensor or the like. The home sensor 1520 may be configured to indicate when the carriage 1104 is positioned at and / or contacting a carriage stop 1508. When the carriage 1104 is positioned at the carriage stop 1508, the spring 1202 is positioned in a manner so that the push knob 1502 will engage with the free end of the spring 1202 (see FIG. 15 for example). If the carriage 1104 is positioned at or contacting the second or middle carriage stop 1508, the spring 1202 is positioned so that the second or middle push knob 1502 will engage the free end of the spring 1202. If the carriage 1104 is positioned at or contacting the third carriage stop 1508, the spring is positioned so that the third or furthest push knob 1502 will engage the free end of the spring. The home sensor 1520 can be configured to indicate to the reformer control system a location of the carriage 1104 and to indicate whether to engage the spring 1202 with the proper push knob 1502.

[0145] Referring now to FIG. 19, an example reformer control system 1900 is shown. The reformer control system 1900 may be similar to the reformer control systems previously described. The reformer control 1900 in this example includes functionality to allow for the control of the push knob assembly 1200 as well as other aspects of the automated reformer 1100 such as the movement of the support platforms. In this example, the reformer control system 1900 includes a power supply 1902, a microcontroller 1904, an input / output device 1906, and a relay box 1912. The microcontroller 1904 may be configured as a computing device, programmable logic controller, application specific circuit, controller, or the like. The microcontroller may be coupled to the input / output device 1906 such as a touch screen, keyboard, mouse, voice control circuit, switch, buttons, dials, or other controls. The microcontroller 1904 may also include transceivers or other devices to allow for communication with wireless devices such as remote control 1914, a smartphone, laptop, tablet, or other computing device.

[0146] The microcontroller 1904 may allow the user to move the support platforms of the automated reformer as previously described. The microcontroller, in response to an input from a user, may send a control signal via the power supply 1902 and the relay box 1912 to the actuators 1908 of the support platform assembly. The microcontroller 1904 may cause the leg support, the head support, and / or the back support to be inclined to a desired angle.

[0147] The microcontroller 1904 may also allow the user to implement a desired amount of resistance force to the carriage 1104. The microcontroller 1904 may receive an input from a user for a desired amount of resistive force or the microcontroller 1904 may receive input for a desired amount of resistive force from a training plan. In response, the microcontroller 1904 may engage the proper spring 1202 or may engage the proper combination of springs 1202 to achieve the desired resistive force. The microcontroller 1904 may cause the proper spring 1202 or proper combination of springs 1202 to be engaged by the proper push knob 1502 or proper combination of push knobs 1502.

[0148] In some examples, the microcontroller 1904 may not change or adjust a resistive level unless the carriage 1104 is located in a home position. The home position may be a position in which the carriage 1104 is located at or contacting a carriage stop 1508. In other examples, upon selecting a desired resistance level, the microcontroller 1904 may display instructions to the user such as “move carriage to home position” or “hold carriage in home position”. The microcontroller 1904 may then not adjust the resistance level by disengaging and / or engaging springs 1202 with push knobs 1502 until the user complies with the instructions.

[0149] The microcontroller 1904 may also extend or retract the carriage stops 1508 as may be necessary to achieve a desired resistance level. The instructions may indicate to the user the steps necessary to achieve the resistance level. For example, in a circumstance where one or more springs 1202 are engaged by push knobs 1502 in the first position, it may be necessary for the microcontroller to extend the first carriage stop 1508. When the microcontroller 1904 receives an indication from the home sensor 1520 that the carriage is at the first carriage stop 1508, the push knob 1502 may be retracted. The microcontroller 1904 may then extend the second (or middle) carriage stop 1508 and instruct the user to move the carriage to the home position. When the microcontroller 1904 receives confirmation that the carriage is at the second carriage stop 1508 from the home sensor 1520, the microcontroller 1904 may cause the second push knob 1502 to move to the extended position to engage the free end of the spring 1202. The reformer control system 1900 may take similar action for any of the springs 1202 to disengage and engage the springs 1202 using one or more of the push knobs 1502 in the array 1700 of push knobs 1502.

[0150] Referring now to FIGS. 20 to 22, example dashboards that may be displayed and / or used in connection with the automated reformer 1100 are shown. The dashboard 2000 in this example may display current status of the automated reformer 1100 and may allow a user to interact or choose a setting for the automated reformer 1100. The dashboard 1112 may be implemented as a touch screen, LCD, LED, or other display. The dashboard 1112 may include a tension indicator 2002. The tension indicator 2002 may display a current resistive force that is applied to the carriage 1104. The tension indicator 2002 may display the force that the spring or combination of springs as applied via the push knob assembly 1200.

[0151] The dashboard 2000 may also include a home position indicator 2004 and a push knob indicator 2006. The home position indicator 2004 may indicate to the user when the carriage 1104 is in the home position and the push knobs 1502 may be disengage or engaged by the push knob assembly 1200. The home position indicator 2004 may change color or display text to the user. The home position indicator 2004 may also provide other or different indications of the location of the carriage 1104 such an audio signal, flash, vibrations, or the like. In the example shown, the home position indicator 2004 changes color and displays the text “READY” to indicate that the setting of the push knob assembly is ready to be changed to different tension or resistive force setting.

[0152] To change a setting or the push knob assembly 1200, the user may use the push knob indicator 2006. The push knob indicator 2006 may provide or display an indication of which push knob 1502 is engaged to a spring 1202. The user may also interact with the push knob assembly 1200 to engage or disengage a push knob 1502 using the push knob indicator 2006. A button, slide, switch or other control may be provided on the push knob indicator 2006 to allow the user to control the position of the push knob 1502. Such control may only be enabled when the carriage is in the home position and is indicated as ready by the home position indicator 2004.

[0153] The dashboard 2000 may also include a carriage support indicator 2008. The carriage support indicator 2008 may include a displayed position of the various support platforms, such as the leg support, the head support, and the back support. The current angle relative to horizontal of each support may be displayed in the carriage support indicator 2008. A user may change the current position of each of the supports using the dashboard 2000. The carriage support indicator 2008 may include buttons, slides, switches, input fields, input selectors, or the like to allow the user to adjust the current position of the supports.

[0154] The automated reformer 1100 may also include a remote control 2300. An example remote control 2300 is shown in FIG. 23. The remote control 2300 may include similar displays and functionality as that described with respect to the dashboard 2000. The remote control 2300 may include a tension indicator 2302, a home position indicator 2304, a push knob indicator 2306, a carriage support indicator 2008, and carriage support control buttons 2310. The remote control 2300 may be positioned in a remote control holder that may be included on the base frame 1102. The base frame 1102 may include multiple holders positioned on opposite sides of the frame and / or at different locations so that the remote control is easily accessible to the user.

[0155] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, a portable Pilates reformer may be provided. The reformer may be able to easily lifted, transported, stored and used. The reformer may be converted from an operational state in which various traditional Pilates exercises may be performed to a portable state in which the reformer may be moved, transported, or stored. Such a portable reformer is an improvement over existing Pilates reformers because traditional Pilates reformers are often large, bulky, stationary exercise devices that are positioned in a studio, gym, or other location and are rarely moved and / or are difficult to move.

[0156] The portable Pilates reformers of the present disclosure may allow for traditional Pilates exercise movements. The portable Pilates reformers of the present disclosure may be used by individuals with limited space that desire mobile exercise platforms, or by fitness professionals that may desire to provide exercise equipment to clients that do not have equipment of their own. Still further, the reformers of the present disclosure may be used by frequent travelers desiring to take exercise equipment with them during travel. The portable exercise Pilates reformers of the present disclosure provide a lightweight, durable, versatile, and easy-to-use exercise device with many advantages over traditional Pilates reformers.

[0157] Referring now to FIGS. 24-40, an example reformer 2400 is illustrated. The reformer 2400 may include a folding frame 2402. The frame 2402 may have an overall length that is suitable for performing Pilates exercises when it is in the operation or extended state. The frame 2402 may be made of multiple platforms that may move relative to each other to allow the frame to be folded to a portable state. In this example, the frame 2402 may include the bottom fold 2404, the middle fold 2406, an the top fold 2408. In other examples, the frame 2402 may include other numbers of platforms or folds that may move relative to each other.

[0158] As further shown and as will be described, the reformer 2400 may also include the carriage bed 2410 that may slide along and relative to the frame 2402. A user may position a user's body on the carriage bed 2410 to allow various exercises to be performed. The carriage bed 2410 may include a pair of shoulder rests 2416. The shoulder rests 2416 may project upward from an upper surface of the carriage bed 2410. The shoulder rests 2416 may also fold down and be stored in a stored position in which the shoulder rests 2416 do not project above the surface of the of the carriage bed 2410.

[0159] The carriage bed 2410 may move along the frame 2402 and may translate in a substantially linear direction and be limited and guided along its translation by one or more wheel guides 2418 and / or rail guides 2420. The wheel guides 2418 and / or the rail guides 2420 may extend longitudinally along the frame 2402.

[0160] The reformer 2400 may also include the foot rest 2412. The foot rest 2412 may include two support arms and a cross-bar that extends between each of the support arms. With this construction, the cross-bar may be positioned at an elevated position relative to the carriage bed 2410 and the frame 2402. A user may be positioned on the carriage bed 2410 and then position the user's feet on the cross-bar of the footrest 2412 to perform Pilates exercises by pushing on the foot rest 2412.

[0161] Referring now to FIGS. 25 and 26, the reformer 2400 is shown in a storage or portable state. In this configuration, the reformer 2400 is folded and may be easily transported or stored. In this example, the middle fold 2406 is approximately the same length as the combined individual lengths of the bottom fold 2404 and the top fold 2408. Thus, in the folded state, the reformer 2400 may be about half as long as when the reformer 2400 is the unfolded or operational state. As shown, the top fold 2408 may be connected to the middle fold 2406 via a hinge member. The top fold 2408 may be folded and positioned against a lower surface of the middle fold 2406 as shown in the top view of FIG. 25. Similarly, the bottom fold 2404 may be connected to the middle fold 2406 via a hinge member. The bottom fold 2404 may be folded and positioned against the lower surface of the middle fold 2406. The footrest 2412 may also be rotated relative to the bottom fold 2404 and rotated to the storage position with the bottom fold 2404. As shown, the carriage bed 2410 may remain coupled to the middle fold 2406.

[0162] In the storage state as shown, the reformer 2400 may be easily carried, or stored. In the storage state, the reformer 2400 may be substantially planar and may not include any projections to allow easy transport and storage. While not shown, the reformer 2400 may include a foldable handle or carrying strap to allow the reformer 2400 to be transported and / or carried. In still other examples, a sleeve or storage bag may be provided into which the folded reformer 2400 may be positioned and then carried or transported.

[0163] FIG. 27 and FIG. 28 illustrate other views of the reformer 2400 in the storage or folded state. The foot rest 2412 may be rotated relative to the bottom fold 2404. The bottom fold 2404 may be folded to the storage position and may leave a gap 2802 (FIG. 28) so that the foot rest 2412 may be rotated into the gap 2802 so that the foot rest 2412 can nest in a stored position in the gap 2802. The foot rest 2412 may include a locking mechanism in the hinge that connects the foot rest 2412 to the bottom fold to lock the foot rest 2412 in the operational, extended position and / or in the stored position.

[0164] As shown in the top view of FIG. 29, the reformer 2400 may include the wheel guides 2418 that may extend across the middle fold 2406 and the top fold 2408. Wheels that are included on carriage bed 2410 may be sized and configured to fit inside the wheel guides 2418 and to guide the carriage bed 2410 in a substantially linear direction as the user performed exercise movements using the reformer 2400. Tension locks may be positioned on the carriage bed 2410 (see FIG. 36) that may extend into the rail guides 2420. The tension locks may couple the carriage bed to tension bands (as will be further described). The rail guides 2420 may also guide the carriage bed in a linear direction when it moved along the frame 2402. As illustrated, the wheel guides 2418 and the rail guides 2420 may be aligned and positioned on both the middle fold 2406 and the top fold 2408. Hinge members 3004 (FIG. 30) may be positioned laterally between the wheel guides 2418 and the rail guides 2420 so as to not interfere with translation of the carriage bed 2410 during use.

[0165] As shown in the bottom view of FIG. 30, the frame 2402, including bottom fold 2404, middle fold 2406, and top fold 2408 may have a substantially planar surface without projections. In this manner, the bottom surface of frame 2402 may be positioned on a support floor or other surface during use. The bottom surface of frame 2402 may lay flat against such surface. In other examples, the bottom surface of frame 2402 may include one or more anti-slip members or gripping members to prevent or limit sliding of reformer 2400.

[0166] As further shown, the hinge members 3002 may couple the middle fold 2406 to the bottom fold 2404. The hinge members 3002 do not project outward from the bottom surface of frame 2402. The hinge members 3002 may allow the bottom fold 2404 to rotate 180 degrees relative to the middle fold 2406. Similarly, the hinge member 3004 may allow top fold 2408 to rotate 180 degrees relative to the middle fold 2406.

[0167] Referring now to FIG. 31, a tension selector 2414 of the reformer 2400 is illustrated. The tension selector 2414 may allow a user to adjust the amount of resistance that is applied to the carriage bed 2410 when the carriage bed 2410 is moved away from the foot rest 2412. In this example, the tension selector 2414 is a handle member that projects outwardly from the lateral sides of the frame 2402. The tension selector 2414 may be moved to various positions to adjust the resistance applied to the carriage bed 2410.

[0168] The middle fold 2406 of the frame 2402 may include an adjustment slot 3110. The adjustment slot 3110 may be positioned in a side wall of the middle fold 2406. The adjustment slot 3110 may be configured to allow the selector 2414 to move from various positions to adjust the resistance applied to the carriage bed 2410. The adjustment slot 3110 may include an elongated portion that extends substantially linearly along the middle fold 2406 and may connect each of multiple selector positions 3104, 3106, 3108. The selector positions 3104, 3106, 3108 may correspond to different resistance levels. In the example shown, the reformer 2400 includes three selector positions including level 1 3108, level 2 3106, and level 3 3104. In other examples, the reformer 2400 may include more than three resistance levels or less than three resistance levels.

[0169] Each of the selector positions 3104, 3106, 3108 may be shaped so as to allow the tension selector 2414 to locked in position at a desired resistance level. The slot 3110 includes a hook shape in the example shown whereby the adjustment selector 2414 is moved upwards, laterally, and then downwards to lock the tension selector 2414 into one of the selector positions 3104, 3106, 3108. The tension selector 2414 may be moved into and out of the locked position by manipulating the tension selector 2414 to move it out of the selector position 3104, 3106, 3108 and move it along the connecting portion of the slot 3110 to another desired selector position 3104, 3106, 3108. In other examples, the tension selector 2414 may be manipulated or moved to select a desired resistance that is applied to the carriage bed 2410. In other examples, the tension selector 2414 may be moved and locked into a desired position using a locking pin, button, hole and sleeve, ratcheting reel, pawl, toothed slot, or the like. While FIG. 31 illustrates one side of the reformer 2400, it should be appreciated that each lateral side of the reformer 2400 may include a similar configuration to allow each tension selector 2414 to be moved one opposite sides of the reformer to adjust the tension applied to the carriage bed 2410.

[0170] Referring now to FIGS. 32 and 33, further aspects of the tensioning features of the reformer 2400 are illustrated. In the example shown, the reformer 2400 includes one or more tension bands 3206 that may used to apply a force or resistance to the carriage bed 2410. The tension bands 3206 may be a silicone or other elastomeric material that can be stretched or elongated and return to its original length of size. The tension bands 3206 may apply resistance to the carriage bed 2410 when the bands 3206 are elongated when the carriage bed 2410 is moved relative to the frame 2402.

[0171] A first end 3214 of the tension band 3206 may be attached to the carriage bed 2410 and a second end 3212 of the tension band 3206 may be attached to the tension selector 2414. Between the first end 3214 and the second end 3212, the tension band 3206 may routed around one or more roller guides 3208. In this example, the frame 2402 may include four or more roller guides 3208 on each side of the frame 2402. The tension band 3206 may be positioned around each of the roller guides. The tension band 3206 may have an unstretched length that is less than the overall length of the path around each of the roller guides 3208. The tension band 3206 may be elongated when it is installed over the roller guides 3208 in the frame 2402 so that tension band 3206 remains in an installed position in the frame 2402. As the carriage bed 2410 is translated relative to the frame 2402, the tension bands (one on each side of the frame 2402) elongate and provide resistance against the translating movement to provide resistance during exercise movements.

[0172] As previously described, the tension selector 2414 may be moved from one of a variety of selector positions (see FIG. 31). In the various positions, the tension band 3206 may have a differing level of resistance at the initial or untranslated position of the carriage bed 2410. As the carriage bed 2410 translates, the tension bands 3206 undergo a different amount of elongation at each tension selector position so that differing levels of resistance may be applied to the carriage bed 2410.

[0173] Each of the tension bands 3206 may be coupled to the tension selectors using a suitable connection to securely capture the tension bands 3206. In the example shown, the tension bands 3206 may be coupled to the tension selectors 2414 using a connector 3310. The connectors 3310 may be crimp connector or other suitable clamp that may compress the tension band 3206 in a cylinder or other complimentarily shaped device and deformed or otherwise mechanically capture the end of the tension band 3206. In other examples, other connectors may be used.

[0174] The ends of the tension bands 3206 opposite to the connectors 3310 may be securely coupled to the carriage bed 2410. In one example, the carriage bed 2410 may include one or more tension locks 3302. The tension locks 3302 may be a flange, wall or other rigid structure that may be attached to a lower surface of the carriage bed that may extend through a top surface of the frame 2402. The tension lock 3302 may include an opening or keyhole through which an enlarged end of the tension band 3206 may be positioned. A crimped cylinder, band or other block of material 3304 may be secured to the end of the tension band 3206. The crimp or other block of material 3304 may be sized so that it will pass through the keyhole or opening in the tension lock 3302. Thus, as the tension lock 3302 (which is positioned on the carriage bed 2410) moves relative to the frame 2402 (downward in FIG. 33), the tension band 3206 is pulled with the tension lock 3302 and elongates tension band 3206. In this manner, resistance may be applied to the carriage bed 2410 during exercise movements.

[0175] The frame 2402 of the reformer 2400 may be constructed of suitable rigid materials to allow exercise movements and for the tension bands and resulting forces to be supported. In one example, the frame 2402 may be constructed of a suitable plastic or polymer material. The frame 2402 may be molded so as to create an integrally formed structure. Each of the bottom fold 2404, the middle fold 2406, and the top fold 2408 may be formed separately and then joined together at the pivot points 3402. The pivot points 3402 may be hinge members that may be bolted or otherwise fastened or attached to the respective members to allow each member to independently fold relative to an adjacent member.

[0176] The frame 2402 may be constructed of a hollow rectangular shape. The frame 2402 may include a lattice of rib supports 3404 that may be positioned at intervals along the frame 2402. The lattice of rib supports 3404 may include multiple longitudinal ribs and multiple lateral ribs that may be add strength and rigidity to the frame 2402. A thin cover member may be secured over the hollow cavity of the frame 2402 (not shown in FIG. 34) to cover the tension bands and other internal elements of the reformer 2400. The cover member 3502 (FIG. 35, shown as transparent) may be connected to the frame 2402. One or more bosses 3504 may project upward toward the cover member 3502 to support the cover member 3502 over the internal cavity of the frame 2402. One or more fasteners 3506 may be used to secure the cover member 3502 to the frame 2402. Screws, bolts, clips or other removable fasteners may be used to allow the cover member 3502 to be removed for maintenance, cleaning, or repair. The hollow ribbed structure of frame 2402 may allow the reformer to maintain its low weight and portability.

[0177] Referring now to FIGS. 36A and 36B, an example carriage bed 2410 is illustrated. For illustration purposes, the carriage bed is illustrated separated from the reformer 2400. The carriage bed may be rectangular and may be formed of suitable plastic material and may be molded to have the shape as shown. The carriage bed 2410 may also be hollow of include multiple cavities so as to reduce the overall weight and maintain the portability of the reformer 2400. A bottom side of the carriage bed 2410 may include the tension locks 3302 previously described. The tension locks 3302 may extend through and into the internal cavity of the frame 2402 as previously described to couple to the tension bands. The openings of the tension locks 3302 may allow these structures to couple to the tension bands (see FIG. 36B).

[0178] The carriage bed 2410 may also include one or more rollers 3602. In this example, rollers 3602 are positioned at or toward each of the corners of the carriage bed 2410. One pair of rollers 3602 may be longitudinally aligned with each and configured to be positioned in a wheel guide 2418 (FIG. 24). A second pair of rollers 3602 may be positioned on an opposite lateral side of the carriage bed 2410 and may be longitudinally aligned with each other to be positioned in the second wheel guide 2418. As the carriage bed 2410 translates along the frame 2402, the rollers 3602 may guide the carriage bed in a linear longitudinal direction. In addition, the rollers 3602 and complimentary wheel guides 2418 may reduce friction and allow for a smooth translation during exercise movements.

[0179] The should rests 2416 may also be positioned and rotatably coupled to the carriage bed 2410. As shown in FIG. 36A, a bottom of the shoulder rests 2416 may extend through slots 3604 in the carriage bed, to allow the shoulder rests 2416 to be moved from a stored position to a deployed position. The shoulder rests 2416 may then rotate and be positioned in the slots 3604 when the shoulder rests 2416 are moved to the storage position.

[0180] Referring now to FIGS. 37A and 37B, the shoulder rests 2416 may include a lock that may be used to secure the shoulder rests 2416 in a desired position, such as the storage position or the deployed or operational position. In one example, the shoulder rest 2416 may include a push switch that may cause movement of a lock 3704. The lock 3704 may be configured as a bar, shaft, or other projection that may extend out from the shoulder rest 2416. The lock 3704 may be sized and shaped to fit into a complimentarily shaped opening, groove, or slot in the carriage bed 2410. The lock 3704 may retract into the shoulder rest 2416 when the push switch 3702 is depressed to allow the shoulder rest 2416 to be moved from the storage position to the operational position. When the push switch 3702 is released the lock 3704 may extend in a direction away from the shoulder rest 2416 and be positioned into the complimentary opening, groove, or slot to lock the shoulder rest 2416 in position. In other examples, other locks may be used such as a pin, fastener, or the like.

[0181] Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, the bottom surface of the reformer 2400 may have smooth surface so that the reformer may be positioned on a floor or other support surface. Each of the bottom fold 2404, the middle fold 2406, and the top fold 2408 of the frame 2402 may include a cover member. The bottom fold 2404 may include a bottom cover 3802. The middle fold 2406 may include a middle cover 3804. The top fold 2408 may include a top cover 3806. Each of the covers 3802, 3804, 3806 may be removably connected to the respective folding member at multiple connection points 3810. Fasteners, clips or other connectors may be used at the connection points to secure the covers to the frame 2402.

[0182] As previously described, the reformer 2400 may be used to perform Pilates exercises. During such exercises, the carriage bed 2410 may translate along the frame 2402. The carriage bed 2410 may initially be positioned such that the carriage is located at or near the foot rest 2412 on middle fold 2406 (see FIG. 24). During an exercise movement, the user may use one or more muscle groups to move the carriage bed 2410 in a direction away from the foot rest 2412. The carriage bed 2410 may translate along middle fold 2406 and may travel on top of top fold 2408 as shown in FIG. 40. The tension bands may be configured to bias the carriage bed 2410 in a direction toward the foot rest 2412. In such a manner, Pilates exercise movements may be performed easily using the portable reformer 2400.

[0183] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0184] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.

[0185] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,”“comprising,”“including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0186] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,”“engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly engaged to,”“directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,”“adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0187] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,”“second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0188] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,”“outer,”“beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“above,”“upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Claims

1. A portable reformer apparatus for performing Pilates exercises comprising:a frame comprising a first platform, a second platform, and a third platform, the first platform and the third platform configured to fold relative to the second platform;a foot rest rotatably coupled to the frame;a carriage bed coupled to the frame and configured to slide relative to the frame; anda resistance system coupled to the frame and to the carriage bed and comprising at least one tension band, the resistance system configured to apply a resistance force to the carriage bed when the carriage bed is translated in a direction away from the foot rest;wherein the portable reformer apparatus is configured to change from an operable position in which exercises are performed to a storage position in which the portable reformer apparatus is stored during periods of non-use.

2. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first platform is configured to fold flat against a first side of the second platform and the third platform is configured to fold flat against a second side of the second platform opposite to the first side.

3. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 2, wherein the foot rest is rotatably coupled to the first platform, the foot rest configured to rotate into a gap between the first platform and the third platform when the portable reformer is in the storage position.

4. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein:the first platform has a first length, the second platform has a second length, and the third platform has a third length;an overall length of the portable reformer apparatus is approximately equal to or greater than a combination of the first length, the second length, and the third length; anda folded length of the portable reformer apparatus is approximately equal to the second length.

5. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance system further comprises at least one tension selector, the at least one tension selector comprising a handle projecting outwardly from the frame, the at least one tension selector configured to adjust the resistance force.

6. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 5, wherein the tension selector is positioned in an adjustment slot of the second platform, the adjustment slot comprising a plurality of selector positions corresponding to different resistance levels of the resistance force.

7. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 6, wherein each selector position comprises a hook shape.

8. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 5, wherein a first end of at least one tension band is connected to the at least one tension selector, and a second end of the at least one tension band is connected to the carriage bed.

9. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 8, wherein one or more roller guides are connected to the frame, the at least one tension band routed over the one or more roller guides.

10. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 9, wherein the frame comprises a hollow rectangular shape and the at least one tension band and the one or more roller guides are positioned inside a hollow cavity of the frame.

11. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 8, wherein the carriage bed comprises at least one tension lock, the at least one tension lock extending into the frame and connected to the at least one tension band.

12. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carriage bed comprises a plurality of rollers configured to be received in wheel guides in the frame to guide the carriage bed in a linear direction.

13. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carriage bed comprises a pair of shoulder rests configured to move from a stored position to a deployed position, the shoulder rests extending away from the carriage bed in the deployed position.

14. The portable reformer apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the first platform, the second platform, and the third platform comprises a removable cover member.

15. An automated reformer comprising:a base frame having a first end and a second end;a carriage coupled to the base frame and movable along the length of the bed frame, comprising:a back support platform pivotably coupled to the carriage,a head rest,a leg support platform pivotably coupled to the carriage, anda fixed platform positioned between the back support platform and the leg support platform;a first linear actuator coupled to the back support platform and arranged to exert a force on the back support platform relative to the carriage wherein the force causes the back support platform to rotate relative to the carriage to achieve a desired inclined position;a second linear actuator coupled to the leg support platform and arranged to exert a force on the leg support platform relative to the carriage wherein the force causes the leg support platform to rotate relative to the carriage to achieve a desired inclined position;a control system communicable with the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator, wherein the control system is configured to control the first linear actuator to adjust the angle of incline of the back support relative to the carriage and to control the second linear actuator to adjust the angle of incline of the leg support relative to the carriage.

16. The automated reformer of claim 15, further comprising:a gear-based resistance system comprising:a worm wheel rotatably mounted to the underside of the carriage,a gear box,a worm shaft having a first end coupled to the gear box and second end rotatably coupled to the base frame, anda resistance control communicable with the gear box configured to vary the resistance exerted by the gear box on the carriage as the carriage is moved along the length of the bed frame by a user.

17. The automated reformer of claim 16, wherein the resistance control is mechanically coupled to the gear box via a cable, and movement of the cable causes the resistance to vary.

18. The automated reformer of claim 16, wherein the resistance control is electronically coupled to the gear box.

19. An automated reformer apparatus comprising:a base frame;a carriage movable positioned on the base frame for performing Pilates exercises; anda push knob assembly coupled to the base frame and the carriage, the push knob configured to change a resistance force applied during movement of the carriage relative to the base frame, the push knob assembly comprising:at least one spring coupled to the carriage; andat least one push knob, the push knob configured to move from a retracted position to an extended position, the push knob coupled to the spring when in the extended position and disengaged from the spring when in the retracted position.

20. The automated reformer apparatus of claim 19, wherein the push knob assembly comprises five or more springs and fifteen or more push knobs.

Images