Training apparatus for bidirectional loads

Abstract

Training apparatus (100) for bidirectional loads comprising: a first mass (101), a first pulley (102) for lifting the first mass (101); a first brake element (103) for slowing down a descent of the first mass (101), a second mass (201), a second pulley (202) for lifting the second mass (201), a second brake element (203) for slowing down a descent of the second mass (201), a torque transmission wheel (300) configured for selectively engaging with the first pulley (102) or the second pulley (202) for lifting the first mass (101) or the second mass (201), a load pulley (400) configured for transmitting a load to the torque transmission wheel (300); a bistable system (500) configured for switching the torque transmission wheel (300), a slide device (600), sliding under the action of an alternating movement of a user and configured for controlling the bistable system (500).

Description

[0001] Title: Training apparatus for bidirectional loads

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Technical Field

[0004] The present invention refers to a training apparatus for bidirectional loads.

[0005] The present invention finds preferred application in the field of fitness, training, gym activities, muscle and motor rehabilitation activities, and the like.

[0006] In general, the present invention refers to an apparatus for physical exercises, intended for developing or strengthening muscles or joints of the body, by working against a counteracting force.

[0007] Prior art

[0008] Some mechanical training apparatus have a bi-directional resistance function for allowing the user to counteract bidirectional loads.

[0009] Known training apparatus require a manual adjustment by the user for changing its position on the tool or the position of the tool device, so as to reverse a load resistance direction and consequently to switch from one training exercise to another.

[0010] In known training apparatus, therefore, the user is forced to stop each time to adjust a possible change in workload between the two generally opposite resistance directions, being only one adjustable load available. This solution, in most cases, is not sufficiently functional given the frequent disbalance of strength between different muscle groups, or between different training exercises.

[0011] Furthermore, in known training apparatus, the user, in order to vary a load in both directions, will have to manually select a different load each time, being only one weight stack available for both functions.

[0012] Document EP2844357A1 refers to an exercise / training device which includes a platform for a user; a rod extends away from the platform and a resistance means, such as a pulley or the like, is connected to a handle that can be grasped by a user and pulled against a resistance.

[0013] Document JP2018082734A refers to a training machine capable of performing an isokinetic exercise, having an action element and an isokinetic displacement element; the action element is periodically moved when a user performs a muscle contraction exercise using the training machine, and the isokinetic attenuation damper moves the action element when the user performs the muscle contraction exercise.

[0014] Document EP1928562A1 refers to a training machine comprising traction or pressure means, arranged to be moved forwards and backwards, while a weight stack is arranged to be lifted and lowered, alternatively, by means of connection means in a continuous movement providing a second motorized force for the user.

[0015] Document CN104800050A refers to an upper limb exercise tool, which comprises a device for upper limb extension and retraction exercises and a device for upper limb twisting exercises.

[0016] Document CN202822607U refers to a bidirectional training mechanism of a weightlifting exercise machine; the mechanism comprises a frame, a left vertical column, a right vertical column, two sliding bases and a barbell rod.

[0017] Document EP2800610A1 refers to an exercise machine comprising an operating element movable in a generally horizontal arc and in a generally vertical arc, for rotation of the torso and abdominal crunch; resistance can be provided by unidirectional adjustable hydraulic uprights.

[0018] Document CN101829004A refers to a bidirectional active or passive rehabilitation training device for the knee joint, which comprises a first pneumatic flexible puller and a second pneumatic puller.

[0019] Document CN213555182U refers to a bidirectional deep squat training machine which comprises a base, a lifting frame hinged to the base and a pedal installed on the base, and a load.

[0020] Document US2020330821A1 refers to a rehabilitation and / or exercise machine with multiple independent bidirectional resistance devices, which can be pneumatic, hydraulic, spring-actuated, pulley systems, cams, etc. for providing resistance against a movement of the user's appendages in two substantially opposite directions.

[0021] Document W02009061674A1 refers to a treadmill with a resistance mechanism for simulating the dragging or pulling of a load.

[0022] Summary of the invention

[0023] The object of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0024] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus allowing to provide bidirectional loads.

[0025] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus which is more effective regarding bidirectional loads.

[0026] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus based on a mechanical system for isotonic exercises with two workloads.

[0027] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus capable of managing a change in resistance between two different exercises with opposite and / or completely different movement directions required for their execution.

[0028] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus capable of managing two workloads, each dedicated to a single exercise / resistance direction.

[0029] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus capable of managing a resistance change during a user's movement for automatically performing the exercise.

[0030] A further particular object of the present invention is to provide a training apparatus capable of modulating, according to the user's preferences, a movement extension in which to change a resistance direction, depending on the user's height or type of muscular work sought in a correct range of movement.

[0031] These and other objects are achieved by a training apparatus according to the characteristics of the attached claims, which form an integral part of the present description.

[0032] An idea underlying the present invention is to provide a training apparatus configured for providing an isotonic machine with bidirectional loads, which allows the distance of the resistance change to be set, as well as the amount of resistance for each direction to be changed. Said training apparatus comprises a bistable system which allows switching between one load and another, along the stroke of a slide, wherein the bistable system alternately engages with torque transmission wheels which lift respective masses.

[0033] The training apparatus for bidirectional loads according to the invention comprises: a first mass configured for a vertical movement; a first pulley configured for lifting the first mass; a first brake element configured for slowing down a descent of the first mass; a second mass configured for a vertical movement; a second pulley configured for lifting the second mass; a second brake element configured for slowing down a descent of the second mass.

[0034] The training apparatus comprises a torque transmission wheel configured for selectively engaging with the first pulley for lifting the first mass in a first operating configuration, and further configured for selectively engaging with the second pulley for lifting the second mass in a second operating configuration.

[0035] The training apparatus comprises a load pulley configured for transmitting a load to the torque transmission wheel under the action of an alternating movement provided by a user.

[0036] The training apparatus comprises a bistable system configured for switching the torque transmission wheel between the first operating configuration and the second operating configuration, and vice versa.

[0037] The training apparatus comprises a slide device, sliding under the action of the alternating movement provided by the user and configured for controlling the bistable system depending on a stroke of the alternating movement.

[0038] Advantageously, the training apparatus according to the present invention allows to provide bidirectional loads to a user, obtaining a new training concept, providing a more compact and rational innovative isotonic equipment with a wider range of functions. In this way, advantageously, the user does not have to waste time moving between different machines in order to change exercises and can achieve improved muscle work goals.

[0039] Preferably, the training apparatus provides a slide device which comprises a first toggle or switch element and a second toggle or switch element, both staggered with respect to a direction of said alternating movement.

[0040] Preferably, the training apparatus provides a bistable system which comprises a switching shaft comprising: a first engagement element configured for interacting with the first toggle element for rotating the switching shaft in a first angular position, activating the first operating configuration; and a second engagement element angularly staggered with respect to the first engagement element and configured for interacting with the second toggle element for rotating the switching shaft in a second angular position, activating the second operating configuration.

[0041] Advantageously, the bistable system and the associated slide device make switching in the load direction effective and reliable.

[0042] Further features and advantages will become more evident from the detailed description given hereinbelow of preferred, non-limiting embodiments of the present invention, and from the dependent claims which outline preferred and particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0043] Brief description of the drawings

[0044] The invention is illustrated with reference to the following figures, provided by way of a non-limiting example, in which:

[0045] - Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the training apparatus, used by a user.

[0046] - Figure 2A illustrates a first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a first condition, and Figure 2B illustrates a detail of Figure 2A.

[0047] - Figure 3A illustrates a second perspective view of the training apparatus, and Figure 3B illustrates a detail of Figure 3A.

[0048] - Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the training apparatus.

[0049] - Figure 5 illustrates a rear view of the training apparatus.

[0050] - Figure 6A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a second condition, and Figure 6B illustrates a detail of Figure 6A.

[0051] - Figure 7A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a third condition, and Figure 7B illustrates a detail of Figure - Figure 8A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a fourth condition, and Figure 8B illustrates a detail of Figure 8A.

[0052] - Figure 9A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a fifth condition, and Figure 9B illustrates a detail of Figure 9A.

[0053] - Figure 10A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a sixth condition, and Figure 10B illustrates a detail of Figure 10A.

[0054] - Figure 11A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in a seventh condition, and Figure 11B illustrates a detail of Figure 11A.

[0055] - Figure 12A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus in an eighth condition, and Figure 12B illustrates a detail of Figure 12A.

[0056] - Figure 13A illustrates a variant of the engagement element of the bistable system of the training apparatus, and Figure 13B illustrates a detail with two engagement elements of Figure 13A in a view corresponding to that of Figure 3B.

[0057] - Figure 14A illustrates the first front perspective view of a further variant of the training apparatus, and Figure 14B illustrates a detail of Figure 14A.

[0058] In the different figures, similar elements will be identified by similar reference numbers.

[0059] Detailed description

[0060] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the training apparatus 100, used by a user 10.

[0061] Preferably, the training apparatus 100 is an “isotonic machine”, that is a training machine that uses a weight stack moved by cables and pulleys, of an amount selectable by the user 10 or by his helper / trainer.

[0062] The training apparatus 100 allows the user 10 to instantly switch between one exercise and another, reversing or completely changing the direction of the resistance encountered by the user 10, simultaneously managing two selectable masses, dedicated to each of the two exercises.

[0063] In other words, with the training apparatus 100, while the user 10 is busy lifting the weight stack dedicated to the first exercise, the system itself will simultaneously manage the second weight stack dedicated to the other exercise calibrated on the work on the resistance opposite and / or different from the movement of the first one, thus slowing down its natural free fall towards the starting point, as will be further described.

[0064] The training apparatus 100 therefore makes it possible to switch from one exercise to another, wherein each one has its own dedicated weight stack, without pauses for a weight change setting, position on the apparatus of the user 10 for the inversion of the resistance to the movement, using the means that will be described below.

[0065] Figure 2A illustrates a first front perspective view in a first condition while Figure 3A shows a further perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in the first condition.

[0066] The training apparatus 100 comprises a first mass 101 configured for a vertical movement and a second mass 201 configured for a vertical movement.

[0067] In this first condition, both masses 101 and 201 rest at the minimum height and cannot therefore further descend. The training apparatus 100 comprises a first pulley 102 configured for lifting the first mass 101, and a second pulley 202 configured for lifting the second mass 201. In particular, as will be further described, the first pulley 102 and the second pulley 202 are configured for lifting the masses 101 and 102, respectively, by means of further cables and pulleys acting on the masses and preferably creating suitable transmission ratios.

[0068] The training apparatus 100 comprises a first brake element 103 configured for slowing down a descent of the first mass 101 and a second brake element 203 configured for slowing down a descent of the second mass 201, which will be further described.

[0069] The training apparatus 100 comprises a torque transmission wheel 300 configured for selectively engaging with the first pulley 102 for lifting the first mass 101 in a first operating configuration, which is the one depicted in Figures 2A and 3A. The torque transmission wheel 300 is further configured for moving and thus selectively engaging with the second pulley 202, for lifting the second mass 201 in a second operating configuration, which will be further described.

[0070] Preferably, the torque transmission wheel 300 frictionally engages with the first pulley 102 and with the second pulley 202, in particular by means of friction between the cylindrical tracks along the circumferences of the pulleys / wheel.

[0071] The training apparatus 100 comprises a load pulley 400 configured for transmitting a load to the torque transmission wheel 300, under the action of an alternating movement provided by a user. In particular, the load pulley 400 is configured for connecting to pull cords and / or levers, which are not shown and can take different configurations, which are operated by the user 10 during training. Furthermore, the load pulley 400 is configured for connecting to the torque transmission wheel 300via transmissions, pulleys and cables, creating suitable transmission ratios. The training apparatus 100 comprises a bistable system 500, which is configured for switching the torque transmission wheel 300 between the first operating configuration and the second operating operation, and vice versa.

[0072] The training apparatus 100 comprises a slide device 600, which slides under the action of the alternating movement provided by the user. The slide device 600 is configured for controlling the bistable system 500 based on a stroke of the alternating movement, thus providing a training apparatus configured for providing bidirectional loads.

[0073] In the preferred embodiment, the slide device 600 comprises a first toggle element 601 and a second toggle element 602. The first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602 are staggered with respect to a direction of the alternating movement, in particular being arranged along the body of the slide device 600.

[0074] Figure 2B illustrates a detail 20 of Figure 2A and Figure 3B illustrates a detail 21 of Figure 3A. In these figures, a part of the bistable system 500 is better visible.

[0075] The bistable system 500 comprises a switching shaft 510.

[0076] The switching shaft 510 comprises a first engagement element 511 configured for interacting with the first toggle element 601 for rotating the switching shaft 510 in a first angular position, so as to activate the first operating configuration in which the lifting of the first mass 101 is active.

[0077] The switching shaft 510 comprises a second engagement element 512 which is angularly staggered with respect to the first engagement element 511; the second engagement element 512 is configured for interacting with the second toggle element 602 for rotating the switching shaft 510 into a second angular position, activating the second operating configuration in which the lifting of the second mass 201 is active.

[0078] The slide device 600 further comprises a position adjustment of the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 on the slide device 600. In particular, the position of the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 can be individually adjusted along the body of the slide device 600, for example by means of a plurality of equally spaced seats in which the first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602 can be fixed. Alternatively, the position of the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 can be continuously adjusted.

[0079] The position adjustment of the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 on the slide device 600 allows the exercise change function to be adjusted.

[0080] The exercise change in the training apparatus 100 occurs by setting a resistance direction change point that defines a functional range for the user 10.

[0081] For example, it could be considered to have a stroke associated with a short movement, medium movement, long movement, and very long movement, depending on the positions of the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 on the slide device 600.

[0082] It is therefore possible that the position of the first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602 are set in an aligned manner, so that the arrival point of one movement substantially corresponds to the starting point of the other and vice versa. This will allow an instantaneous change between exercises, so as not to have dead points on the movement distance, in the change of direction between the resistances, and consequently between the switching between muscle contractions.

[0083] By adjusting the position of the first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602, the user can use the training apparatus 100 also in a unidirectional way, therefore working only by counteracting the movement of the first mass 101 or the second mass 201. It is in fact possible to establish a position of the first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602 outside of the interaction with the switching shaft 510, which will allow a standard unidirectional and therefore monofunctional work.

[0084] Therefore, the function change provided by the bistable system 500 can be set in two different ways, for example:

[0085] 1) unidirectional mode, lifting only the first mass 101 or only the second mass 201;

[0086] 2) continuous bidirectional mode with change of resistance direction for the alternating lifting of the first mass 101 and the second mass 201; in this bidirectional mode, the user can switch between two exercises at his will and can train with the "continuous super set" technique, that is, without limitations on the number of super sets between exercises until he / she decides to stop of his own will.

[0087] Furthermore, the training apparatus 100 provides for the possibility of regulating a quantity of the first mass 101 and / or the second mass 201, so as to vary the weight entity of the bidirectional loads, making it equal to each other or different.

[0088] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the training apparatus 100 while Figure 5 illustrates a rear view of the training apparatus 100.

[0089] In these views, it can be appreciated that the first pulley 102 is connected to a first final pulley 104 connected to the first mass 101 by means of a first cable. The first brake element 103 is configured for slowing down a rotation of the first pulley 102, so as to prevent the first mass 101, freed by the action of the torque transmission wheel 300, from uncontrolledly falling to the ground.

[0090] Similarly, the second pulley 202 is connected to a second final pulley 204 connected to the second mass 201 by a second cable. The second brake element 203 is configured for slowing down a rotation of the second pulley 202, thereby preventing the second mass 201, released by the action of the torque transmission wheel 300, from uncontrolledly falling to the ground.

[0091] The bistable system 500 further comprises a switching wheel 501, connected to the switching shaft 510; in particular, the switching wheel 501 is connected to the switching shaft 510 through a system of transmissions, with cables and pulleys.

[0092] The switching wheel 501 is configured for oscillating in accordance with a rotational movement of the switching shaft 510.

[0093] The switching wheel 501 is configured for moving the torque transmission wheel 300 from the first operating configuration, in which it transmits a lifting torque to the first pulley 102, to the second operating configuration, in which it transmits a lifting torque to the second pulley 202, or vice versa.

[0094] Preferably, the switching wheel 501 comprises a switching rod 502 that connects the switching wheel 501 with the torque transmission wheel 300.

[0095] The bistable system 500 further comprises at least one spring element 503, preferably a pair of spring elements 503. The at least one spring element 503 is configured for selectively biasing the torque transmission wheel 300 in engagement with the first pulley 102 and / or the second pulley 202.

[0096] Preferably, the bistable system 500 further comprises at least one skim element 504 connected to at least one spring element 503, adapted to reduce a resistance to the displacement of the torque transmission wheel 300.

[0097] In the preferred embodiment, the brake elements 103 and 203 are activated by preloaded springs which maintain them in an activated state by slowing down the fall of the respective mass 101 and 201; the switching wheel 501 comprises a first push element 521 configured for deactivating the first brake element 103 when the training apparatus 100 is in the first operating configuration, and further comprises a second push element 522 configured for deactivating the second brake element 203 when the training apparatus 100 is in the second operating configuration.

[0098] Preferably, the first brake element 103 comprises a first belt 103b and a first lever 103c configured for exerting an action on the first belt 103b; the second brake element 203 comprises a second belt 203b and a second lever 203c configured for exerting an action on the second belt 203b.

[0099] Preferably, the first pulley 102 comprises a first unidirectional torque transmission element (which is internal and not visible in the Figure), configured for freeing a descent of the first mass 101, and the second pulley 202 comprises a second unidirectional torque transmission element (which is internal and not visible in the Figure), configured for freeing a descent of the second mass 201. In particular, the unidirectional torque transmission elements may be snap wheels, which transmit torque in only one direction.

[0100] In the following figures, different moments of the use cycle of the training apparatus 100 are illustrated, which determine different “conditions”. After the rest condition, already described, in which both masses 101 and 201 rest on the ground, the use cycle provides:

[0101] 1. A first repetition in which the user 10 exerts a force to overcome a resistance in a first direction;

[0102] 2. Snap of the bistable system 500 from a first working direction to a second opposite direction;

[0103] 3. A second repetition in which the user 10 exerts a force to overcome a resistance in a second direction, in particular opposite to the first direction;

[0104] 4. Snap of the bistable system 500 from the second working direction to the first working direction; The same cycle can also be performed starting from the second condition, performing the above-mentioned steps in the order 3-4- 1-2 in a cyclical manner.

[0105] In the exemplary configuration represented herein, the changes in direction of the load occur at 80% of the stroke of the slide device 600, based on the position of the first toggle element 601 and the second toggle element 602; this position, as already described, is adjustable in order to vary the operation of the training apparatus 100.

[0106] In the figures relating to the first condition, described so far, the torque transmission wheel 300 is engaged with the first pulley 102 for lifting the first mass 101; both masses 101 and 201 are on the ground. The second brake element 203 is actuated, while the first brake element 103 is not actuated.

[0107] The second engagement element 512 is ready to contact the second toggle element 602, while the first engagement element 511 which actuates the switching shaft 510 is in the retracted position. When the movement is started from this first condition, there is a switching to the second condition.

[0108] Figure 6A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a second condition, and Figure 6B illustrates a detail 22 of Figure 6A.

[0109] In the second condition, the torque transmission wheel 300 is still engaged with the first pulley 102 for lifting the first mass 101; the first mass 101 is lifted. The second brake element 203 is actuated, while the first brake element 103 is not actuated.

[0110] The user has set the mechanism in motion by lifting, in addition to the first mass 101, also the slide device 600 on which the switching elements 601 and 602 are mounted.

[0111] Preferably, the transmission ratio between the load pulley 400 and the final first pulley 104 is 1: 1 so the user has exerted the same force as he would exert if the first mass 101 were constrained to the pulley by a single cable.

[0112] The first engagement element 511 that actuates the switching shaft 510 is in the retracted position and the first toggle element 601 has passed in front of it. The user has stopped at 79%, just before the second toggle element 602 contacts the second engagement element 512.

[0113] At this point the user can decide whether to:

[0114] • Go back, opposing the fall of the first mass 101, and perform the exercise in a traditional manner. In this case, there is again a return to the first condition.

[0115] • Continue with the movement and switch the bistable system, switching to the third condition.

[0116] Figure 7A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a third condition, and Figure 7B illustrates a detail 23 of Figure 7A.

[0117] In the third condition, the user has further lifted the first mass 101, to 80% of the forward stroke, causing the contact between the second toggle element 602 and the engagement element 512. This contact causes the rotation of the switching shaft 510 on which the engagement elements 511 and 512 are mounted, and therefore the rotation of the elements of the bistable system 500; therefore, the switching wheel 501 has come out of its equilibrium position and the position of the torque transmission wheel 300 is changed.

[0118] As soon as the switching wheel 501 has completed the switching, the first brake element 103 is actuated and immediately afterwards the torque transmission wheel 300 detaches from the first pulley 102 of the first mass 101. In this way, the first mass 101 does not fall, even though it is no longer connected to the user's movement. The torque transmission wheel 300 is not in contact with anything, the second brake element 203 is still actuated. If the user continues the movement, there is a switching to the fourth condition.

[0119] Figure 8A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a fourth condition, and Figure 8B illustrates a detail 24 of Figure 8A.

[0120] In the fourth condition, the user has further lifted the first mass 101, at approximately 82% of the forward stroke, completing the rotation of the engagement element 512 which is necessary to bring the bistable system 500 in the other equilibrium position; therefore, the second engagement element 512 is in a retracted position, while the first engagement element 511 is ready to contact the respective first toggle element 601.

[0121] The torque transmission wheel 300 is in contact with the second pulley

[0122] 202 connected to the second mass 201 and the second brake element

[0123] 203 of the first mass 101 is no longer actuated.

[0124] The first mass 101 slowly descends to the ground, slowed down by the first brake element 103 and its speed of descent depends on the braking torque which can be adjusted by varying a preloading of a torsion spring which is present in the band brake. The second mass 201 is still on the ground. The user now has two options:

[0125] • Use the machine only in the second direction with maximum stroke of 82% of the available stroke, directly switching to the sixth condition.

[0126] • Reset the second direction in order to be able to use 100% of the available stroke, switching to the fifth condition.

[0127] Figure 9A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a fifth condition, and Figure 9B illustrates a detail 25 of Figure 9A. In the fifth condition, the user completes the loadless movement in the first direction by lifting the slide device 600 up to 100% of the stoke without any resistance.

[0128] In fact, the first mass 101 is no longer subject to the force of the user and continues to slowly fall controlled by the first brake element 103.

[0129] The second mass 201 cannot be pushed down by the user, since the connected second pulley 202 is constrained to the respective shaft by an unidirectional bearing, for example with a ratchet or spring mechanism that prevents the transmission of the torque in this direction; said rotational movement would, in any case, be impossible because the cable would break, but it is advisable to avoid any risk by adopting an unidirectional bearing. As soon as the user starts the movement in the second opposite direction, there is a switching to the sixth condition.

[0130] Figure 10A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a sixth condition, and Figure 10B illustrates a detail 26 of Figure 10A.

[0131] The user is moving in the second direction and the torque transmission wheel 300 is in contact with the second pulley 202 which lifts the second mass 201; the first mass 101 has now reached the ground, the first brake element 103 remains actuated, while the second brake element 203 is not actuated.

[0132] The user has set the mechanism in motion by lifting the second mass 201 by pulling down the slide device 600 on which the shift elements 601 and 602 are mounted.

[0133] Preferably, the transmission ratio between the load pulley 400 and the final second pulley 204 is 1: 1, so the user has exerted the same force that he would exert if the second mass 201 were constrained to the pulley by a single cable.

[0134] The second engagement element 512 is in the upward retracted position and has not contacted the respective second toggle element 602 that has passed in front of it. The user has stopped at 79% of the return stroke, just before the first toggle element contacts the respective first engagement element 511.

[0135] At this point the user can decide whether to:

[0136] • Go back, opposing the fall of the second mass 201 and perform the exercise in a traditional manner. In this case, there is a return to the fifth condition or the end of the fourth condition, if the reset had not been performed previously.

[0137] • Go ahead and switch the bistable system, switching to the seventh condition.

[0138] Figure 11A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in a seventh condition, and Figure 1 IB illustrates a detail 27 of Figure 11A.

[0139] In the seventh condition, the user has further lifted the second mass 201, to 80% of the return stroke, causing the contact between the first toggle element 601 and the respective first engagement element 511.

[0140] This contact causes the rotation of the switching shaft 510 on which the engagement elements 511 and 512 are mounted, and therefore the rotation of the elements of the bistable system 500; therefore, the switching wheel 501 has come out of its equilibrium position and the position of the torque transmission wheel 300 is modified.

[0141] As soon as the switching wheel 501 has completed the switching, the second brake element 203 is actuated and, immediately after, the torque transmission wheel 300 detaches from the second pulley 202 of the second mass 201.

[0142] In this way, the second mass 201 does not fall, even though it is no longer connected to the user's movement. The torque transmission wheel 300 is not in contact with anything, the first brake element 103 is still actuated. If the user continues the movement, there is a switching to the eighth condition.

[0143] Figure 12A illustrates the first front perspective view of the training apparatus 100 in an eighth condition, and Figure 12B illustrates a detail 28 of Figure 12A.

[0144] In the eighth condition, the user has further lifted the second mass 201, to approximately 82% of the return stroke, thus completing the rotation of the engagement element 511 which is necessary to bring the bistable system 500 in the other equilibrium position; therefore, the first engagement element 511 is in a retracted position, while the second engagement element 512 is ready to contact the respective second toggle element 602.

[0145] The torque transmission wheel 300 is in contact with the first pulley 102 connected to the first mass 101 and the first brake element 103 is no longer actuated.

[0146] The second mass 201 slowly descends to the ground, slowed down by the second brake element 203 and its falling speed depends on the braking torque that can be adjusted by varying a preloading of a torsion spring which is present in the band brake. The first mass 101 is still on the ground. The user now has two options:

[0147] • Use the machine only in the first direction with maximum stroke of 82% of the available stroke, directly switching to the second condition.

[0148] • Reset the first direction, similarly to what happens for the second mass in the fifth condition, in order to be able to use 100% of the available stroke, again switching to the first condition.

[0149] The switching between the various conditions, as mentioned, can be repeated in a cyclical manner with possible variations within it, so that the user can perform a training with bidirectional loads, or even unidirectional if desired.

[0150] Figure 13A illustrates a variant of an engagement element 541 of the bistable system 500 of the training apparatus 100, and Figure 13B illustrates a detail with two engagement elements 541 and 542 of Figure 13A, in a view corresponding to that of Figure 3B.

[0151] In the already-described embodiment, the engagement element 511 or 512 was a single rigid body; in this variant, the engagement element is composed of two parts.

[0152] In particular, the first engagement element 541 and / or the second engagement element 542 comprise pivoting ends 543, which are spring- loaded and configured for interacting with the first toggle element 601 and / or the second toggle element 602 in a single direction. In other words, in a stress direction, the pivoting end 543 allows to provide an engagement force, while in an opposite stress direction, the pivoting end 543 yields by moving back and compressing the load spring, so that the switching element 601 and / or 602 bypasses it without causing the switching of the switching shaft 510.

[0153] In this way, the presence of the pivoting ends 543 allows to prevent undesired switching between the first angular position and / or the second angular position of the switching shaft 510.

[0154] In other words, a central part 544 of the engagement element 541 is integral with the switching shaft 510, while the pivoting end 543 can rotate around the respective pin; a preloaded torsion spring maintains the pivoting end 543 in the equilibrium position shown in Figure 13A.

[0155] When an engagement element 601 or 602 contacts a first vertical surface of the pivoting end 543, it acts to rotate the engagement element 541 and therefore the switching shaft 510.

[0156] Instead, an engagement element 601 or 602 contacts a second surface opposite the first surface of the pivoting end, there is a compression of the spring, and no rotation is transmitted to the switching shaft 510.

[0157] This variant prevents the bistable system from getting stuck, especially in the case of an incorrect positioning of the engagement elements 601 or 602, which are adjustable by the user. An example of incorrect positioning, which the user could erroneously set, is represented by the situation in which a sum between the stroke selected for the first operating configuration and the stoke selected for the second operating configuration is less than or equal to the whole stoke.

[0158] Figure 14A illustrates the first front perspective view of a further variant of the training apparatus 100, and Figure 14B illustrates a detail 29 of Figure 14A, in a view corresponding to the one of Figure 2B.

[0159] In this variant, the training apparatus 100 comprises a first safety lock 531 configured for preventing a rotation of the switching shaft 510 in the first angular position, when the second mass 201 is at least partially lifted with respect to a rest position.

[0160] Furthermore, the training apparatus comprises a second safety lock 532 configured for preventing a rotation of the switching shaft 510 in the second angular position when the first mass 101 is at least partially lifted with respect to a rest position.

[0161] In particular, for example, a rod which rigidly rotates with the switching shaft can be present on the switching shaft 510; two limit stops which block the rotation of the rod and, consequently, of the switching shaft are present on the sides of this rod, preventing the switching of the bistable system 500. Each limit stop is connected to the frame of the training apparatus 100 via a spring and to a respective mass 101 or 201 via a cable. When a mass 101 or 201 is on the ground, the cable is tensioned so that the spring of the safety locks 531 or 532 is put under tension and the respective limit stop is lifted upwards, freeing the rotation of the switching shaft 510 of the bistable system 500. When, however, a mass 101 or 201 is at least partially lifted, the cable is not tensioned and the limit stop descends due to the return force of the spring, and thus blocks the rotation of the switching shaft 510 of the bistable system 500. When the first mass 101 is lifted, the switching to the second mode is blocked but not the first mode, while, when the second mass 201 is lifted, the switching to the first mode is blocked but not the second mode.

[0162] The safety lock therefore prevents the user from performing a transition that causes a switching before the mass to be used has reached the ground, but the normal operation of the bistable system 500 is not hindered. In this case, the safety lock 531 and 532 are configured to block a possible incorrect movement of the user, ensuring that the user carries out the exercise without switching, in the traditional manner, or that the user duly waits that the mass 101 or 201 is brought to the ground before carrying out the switching of the bistable system 500.

[0163] Industrial applicability

[0164] The training apparatus according to the present invention allows to provide bidirectional loads and therefore has great potential, which allows to create a wide range of tools with increased functions, even previously unachievable ones.

[0165] The training apparatus according to the present invention allows an improvement in amateur training performance and, with greater interest, also in the professional field.

[0166] With the training apparatus according to the present invention, users will benefit from almost zero recovery times between exercises, exponentially amplifying the intensity of the training and shortening the total time of the session.

[0167] With the training apparatus according to the present invention, a skilled person can instead benefit not only from the innovation as a focus for improving their business, but also from a considerable saving of space and therefore of rental costs, considering that the training apparatus is conceptually born to merge two previously separate machines, using two workloads for the different resistances but a single frame structure instead of two.

[0168] It is clear that, where there are no technical incompatibilities which are apparent to the skilled person, the configurations of specific elements described with reference to certain embodiments can be used in other embodiments described herein.

[0169] Considering the description given herein, the skilled person can devise further modifications and variations, in order to satisfy contingent and specific needs. For example, the training apparatus according to the present invention can include applications to various types of machinery, even multifunctional ones, for example for training the arms and / or legs and / or back with various movements that can be performed by a user.

[0170] Furthermore, for example, the layout of the training apparatus can be varied based on space or design requirements, also based on the desired loads.

[0171] The embodiments described herein are therefore to be considered as illustrative and non-limiting examples of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Training apparatus for bidirectional loads, said training apparatus (100) comprising:- a first mass (101) configured for a vertical movement;- a first pulley (102) configured for lifting said first mass (101);- a first brake element (103) configured for slowing down a descent of said first mass (101);- a second mass (201) configured for a vertical movement;- a second pulley (202) configured for lifting said second mass (201);- a second brake element (203) configured for slowing down a descent of said second mass (201);- a torque transmission wheel (300) configured for selectively engaging with said first pulley (102) for lifting said first mass (101) in a first operating configuration, and further configured for selectively engaging with said second pulley (202) for lifting said second mass (201) in a second operating configuration;- a load pulley (400) configured for transmitting a load to said torque transmission wheel (300) under the action of an alternating movement provided by a user;- a bistable system (500) configured for switching said torque transmission wheel (300) between said first operating configuration and said second operating configuration, and vice versa;- a slide device (600), sliding under the action of said alternating movement and configured for controlling said bistable system (500) depending on a stroke of said alternating movement.

2. Training apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said slide device(600) comprises a first toggle element (601) and a second toggle element (602), said first toggle element (601) and said second toggle element (602) being staggered with respect to a direction of said alternating movement, and wherein said bistable system (500) comprises a switching shaft (510), said switching shaft (510) comprising:- a first engagement element (511; 541) configured for interacting with said first toggle element (601) for rotating said switching shaft (510) in a first angular position, activating said first operating configuration; and- a second engagement element (512; 542) angularly staggered with respect to said first engagement element (511; 541) and configured for interacting with said second toggle element (602) for rotating said switching shaft (510) in a second angular position, activating said second operating configuration.

3. Training apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said slide device(600) further comprises a position adjustment of said first toggle element(601) and / or of said second toggle element (602) on said slide device.

4. Training apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said bistable system (500) further comprises a switching wheel (501) connected to said switching shaft (510) and configured for oscillating and moving said torque transmission wheel (300) from said first operating configuration to said second operating configuration or vice versa.

5. Training apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said switching wheel (501) comprises a switching rod (502) connecting said switching wheel (501) with said torque transmission wheel (300), and wherein said bistable system (500) further comprises at least one spring element (503) configured for selectively biasing said torque transmission wheel (300) in engagement with said first pulley (102) and / or with said second pulley (202), and preferably further comprises a skim element (504) connected to said at least one spring element (503).

6. Training apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said switchingwheel (501) further comprises a first push element (521) configured for deactivating said first brake element (103) in said first operating configuration, and further comprises a second push element (522) configured for deactivating said second brake element (203) in said second operating configuration.

7. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein said first engagement element (601) and / or said second engagement element (602) comprise pivoting ends (543), said pivoting ends (543) being spring-loaded and configured for interacting with said first toggle element (601) and / or with said second toggle element (602) in a single direction, to prevent undesired switching between said first angular position and / or said second angular position.

8. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, further comprising a first safety lock (531) configured for preventing a rotation of said switching shaft (510) in said first angular position when said second mass (201) is at least partially lifted with respect to a rest position, and further comprising a second safety lock (532) configured for preventing a rotation of said switching shaft (510) in said second angular position when said first mass (101) is at least partially lifted with respect to a rest position.

9. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said first brake element (103) comprises a first belt (103b) and a first lever (103c) configured for exerting an action on said first belt (103b), and wherein said second brake element (203) comprises a second belt (203b) and a second lever (203c) configured for exerting an action on said second belt (203b).

10. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said torque transmission wheel (300) frictionally engages with said first pulley (102) and with said second pulley (202).

11. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, whereina quantity of said first mass (101) and / or of said second mass (201) is adjustable to vary the weight entity of said bidirectional loads.

12. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said first pulley (102) is connected to a first final pulley (104) connected to said first mass (101) by a first cable, and wherein said first brake element (103) slows down a rotation of said first pulley (102), and wherein said second pulley (202) is connected to a second final pulley (204) connected to said second mass (201) by a second cable, and wherein said second brake element (203) slows down a rotation of said second pulley (202).

13. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said first pulley (102) comprises a first unidirectional torque transmission element, configured for freeing a descent of said first mass (101), and wherein said second pulley (202) comprises a second unidirectional torque transmission element, configured for freeing a descent of said second mass (201).

14. Training apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein said load pulley (400) is configured for connection to pull cords and / or levers operated by said user during a training.

Images