Training machine

Abstract

The present invention relates to a training machine comprising a support structure (1) for supporting the user having training means (2) and a belt (3) connected to these means. The support structure comprises a first fixed frame (4); a second frame (5) connected to the support structure (1); connection means between the two frames, capable of allowing the second frame (5), in a working position, to move vertically at a distance above the first frame (4); a lifting mechanism for lifting the user's weight comprising a lever (9) connected to the first frame (4) via a rotation shaft (10) and a free end (9.2), and a support element for the connection means between the frames, such that the lever (9) can rotate and the second frame (5) can move vertically when in the working position; and a regulating spindle (12) for regulating the effort to be exerted.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] Training machine

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The present invention pertains to the technical field of sports and specifically to machines and mechanisms for training athletes.

[0005] Background of the Invention

[0006] Currently, there is an increasingly widespread trend towards a healthy lifestyle that involves taking care of the body and practicing sports in any of its forms.

[0007] Depending on the type of sport chosen, the goal is to exercise one or more specific parts of the body. This is why people seeking comprehensive muscle development across all muscle groups often opt for gym machines, as some are designed to target all muscle groups, allowing for a variety of exercises.

[0008] These machines can also be focused on a single muscle group, and the athlete moves from one machine to another, exercising the muscles that interest them most.

[0009] The working system of these machines consists of using fixed movement patterns, which makes them more stable and they do not require much skill or coordination, so they can be used by athletes of all levels.

[0010] Besides being generally very easy to use, they have the added advantage of allowing you to modify the weight / resistance, that is, the level of effort to be exerted. However, these machines present certain problems, such as the fact that each time an exercise is performed, it is necessary to place, remove, or select a specific number of weights to achieve the required resistance level.

[0011] Furthermore, they require a significant amount of additional space to store the weights that are added, removed, or selected for specific exercises. Many of these machines have this storage space integrated into their structure, making them even larger and bulkier. Consequently, the overall weight of the machine increases considerably.

[0012] There are other types of machines that use elements other than weights to generate resistance during exercise. These include machines with water resistance, hydraulic resistance, or resistance using springs, elastic bands, or other flexible elements such as carbon fiber bars.

[0013] The problem with these types of machines is that they require a lot of maintenance, whether they use water or oil, due to potential leaks, rust, valve deterioration, etc., or if they use elastic components, as these deteriorate with use and can even break or rupture. Furthermore, the quality of the exercise is not comparable to that of a weight machine.

[0014] Finally, there is another type of training machine that uses your own body weight as resistance, avoiding the need to place one or more weights each time and avoiding the need to use extra space to place them.

[0015] The machines of this type currently on the market have certain problems because the mechanism required for the machine to utilize the user's own body weight needs a different and specific design for each type of exercise. This complicates their manufacture, as it doesn't allow for widespread industrialization, since each machine is different. This delays lead times and increases production costs, making it difficult for gyms, and especially individuals, to find it profitable to purchase this type of machine. Furthermore, these machines often have mechanisms that involve lifting and lowering the body's own weight, which provides resistance. They also typically have cranks, bars, and other moving parts that are very exposed, making them highly susceptible to accidents due to entanglement or entrapment.

[0016] It is therefore necessary to find a way to solve this problem with current training machines.

[0017] Description of the invention

[0018] The training machine presented here comprises a user weight support structure that has training means for performing one or more exercises and a tension belt that has a first end connected to the training means.

[0019] This machine further comprises a first fixed frame having a lower base configured for support on a surface, a first and a second opposite end, and a first and a second side between them, as well as a second frame attached to the support structure for the support of said structure and the weight of the user, comprising a first and a second side and at least one first pulley between them.

[0020] Both frames are connected to each other by means of connection capable of allowing a rest position of the second frame supported on the first end of the first frame and a working position such that the second frame has a vertical displacement and is located at a distance above the first frame.

[0021] The machine also features a user weight lifting mechanism comprising a lever with one end connected to the first end of the first frame by means of a pivot axis and a free end with a second pulley, and a support element for the connecting means between frames, located on the lever at a distance D from the pivot axis. For its part, the belt runs through the first and second pulleys to a second end fixed to the first frame.

[0022] Thus, in the working position, the belt is capable of transmitting to the free end of the lever a force applied in the training means, so that it allows the lever to rotate and the vertical displacement of the second frame by the push of the support element on the connecting means between frames.

[0023] This machine also has a spindle connected to the support element for adjusting its distance to the axis of rotation.

[0024] The training machine proposed here results in a significant improvement in the state of the art.

[0025] This is because a very efficient machine is achieved with which it is possible to generate a weightlifting effort, the weight to be lifted being the user's own weight, so it is not necessary to have multiple weights of different weight values, thus allowing the machine not to require extra space for their storage.

[0026] Another advantage is that it includes mechanisms for adjusting the user's effort, allowing them to lighten or increase the resistance offered by the exercise mechanism. These adjustments are very easy to use, with a simple twist of a spindle that allows for quick and convenient adjustments, eliminating the need to add or remove weights from the machine to achieve the desired resistance level. This significantly simplifies its use for athletes.

[0027] Furthermore, a simple machine is achieved that can be used to manufacture machines for performing different types of exercises, since all the elements and mechanisms of the machine are the same, and only the training aids that connect to it need to be added to perform leg, arm, or any other type of exercise. This machine features a very compact weight lifting mechanism, which makes the overall size of the machine much smaller than that of an equivalent weight machine designed to perform the same type of exercise. It is also a much lighter machine, which facilitates its initial transport and possible relocation or change of location if necessary.

[0028] All these advantages of smaller machine size and the ability to industrialize the manufacture of all its parts except for the training equipment allow for lower manufacturing costs.

[0029] Finally, there is an additional advantage in terms of the quality of the exercise performed with this machine, because by using your own body weight, you notice that the second rack moves down when you are going from the working position to the resting position and therefore, this rack is not dropped and the exercise is performed correctly, unlike weight machines that usually encourage you to release the weights abruptly when you finish the exercise, so the end is not done well and can cause some muscle strains if you do not release correctly.

[0030] It is therefore a training machine of reduced size and weight, which takes up very little space. Furthermore, it is a highly effective machine, allowing athletes to train easily and making it suitable for any training method, thus simplifying the manufacturing of these machines.

[0031] Brief description of the drawings

[0032] In order to aid a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, according to a preferred embodiment thereof, a set of drawings is provided as an integral part of said description, where, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented:

[0033] Figure 1 shows a profile view of a training machine for a preferred embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the first frame and the means of connection to the second frame of a training machine for a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0034] Figures 3.1 and 3.2 show profile views of the first and second frames for a rest and working position respectively, of a training machine for a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the lifting mechanism and spindle of a training machine for a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0036] Detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the invention

[0037] In view of the figures provided, it can be observed how, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the training machine proposed herein comprises a support structure (1) for the user's weight, which has training means (2) for performing one or more exercises, and a tension belt (3) which has a first end (3.1) connected to the training means.

[0038] This machine further comprises a first fixed frame (4) and a second frame (5) attached to the support structure (1) for supporting the support structure and the weight of the user, both connected to each other by means of connecting means.

[0039] Thus, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first frame (4) has a lower base (6) configured for support on a surface, a first and a second opposite end (4.1, 4.2), and a first and a second side (7.1, 7.2) between them.

[0040] For its part, the second frame (5) has a first and a second side (8.1, 8.2) and at least one first pulley (not shown in the Figures) between them. The means of connection between both frames are capable of allowing a rest position of the second frame (5) in which it is supported on the first end (4.1) of the first frame (4), as can be seen in Figure 3.1, and a working position, shown in Figure 3.2, in which the second frame (5) has a vertical displacement and is located at a distance above the first frame (4).

[0041] This machine also comprises a user weight lifting mechanism comprising a lever (9) and a support element for the connecting means between frames.

[0042] As shown in Figures 3.1, 3.2, and 4, the lever (9) has a connecting end (9.1) to the first end (4.1) of the first frame (4) by means of a pivot shaft (10) and a free end (9.2) with a second pulley (11). Thus, the belt (3) runs from its first end (3.1), through the first and second pulleys (11), to a second end (3.2) of the belt (3) that is fixed by means of a hook (18) to the first frame (4).

[0043] For its part, the support element is located on the lever (9) at a distance (D) from the axis (10) of rotation, so that in the working position the belt (3) is capable of transmitting to the free end (9.2) of the lever (9) a force (F) applied in the training means (2), such that it allows the rotation of the lever (9) and the vertical displacement of the second frame (5) by the push of the support element on the connecting means between frames, as can be seen in Figure 3.2.

[0044] Likewise, the machine comprises a spindle (12) connected to the support element for regulating its distance (D) to the axis (10) of rotation.

[0045] In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the machine comprises a housing covering the first and second frames (4, 5). This housing (not shown in the Figures so that the internal elements can be distinguished) allows for the enclosure of the connecting means and the lifting mechanism, so that their moving parts are protected and out of the user's reach, thus preventing possible entrapment accidents.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1, 2, 3.1 and 3.4, in this first preferred embodiment, the connection means between both frames are formed by a first pair of parallel and symmetrical connecting rods (13), each of which is connected to the first and second side (7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2) respectively of both frames by means of two first bearings (15), and a second pair of connecting rods (14) parallel to the first pair (13) arranged at a higher level and connected to the first and second side (7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2) respectively of both frames by means of two first bearings (15).

[0047] This connection method, in which there is the same separation distance between the ends of the first pair of connecting rods (13) and the ends of the second pair of connecting rods (14), allows all these connecting rods to remain parallel at all times, ensuring that the displacement of the second frame (5) to the working position is a completely vertical displacement.

[0048] This second frame (5) can have one or another shape depending on the support structure (1) to which it must be attached and whose weight it must support, along with the user's weight. This support structure (1) has a specific configuration depending on the type of exercise to be performed. Therefore, the support structure (1) and the second frame (5) are the only elements that will change in the machine, depending on the exercise it is intended for; the rest of the elements and their connections remain unchanged.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the second end (3.2) of the tensioning strap (3) is connected to the first frame (4) at a higher level than the connection point of the second pair of connecting rods (14). The tensioning strap (3) in this case is a flat strap of rubberized steel cables.

[0050] As can be seen in Figures 3.1, 3.2 and 4, the support element of the connecting means between frames is formed by two second bearings (16) located symmetrically on both sides of the lever (9) such that each of the connecting rods of the first pair (13) rests on one of said second bearings (16).

[0051] Thus, when a force (F) is applied to the training device (2), it is transmitted through the belt (3) to the lever (9), and this same force (F) acts on its free end (9.2) where the second pulley (11) is located. This force (F) attempts to rotate the lever (9) around its axis (10), but during this rotation, the second bearings (16) come into contact with the two connecting rods of the first pair (13) and exert an upward force on them, generating a resistance (R) to the rotation of both and, therefore, to the upward vertical displacement of the second frame (5).

[0052] To achieve this vertical displacement of the second frame (5), the user must apply a force (F) that is proportional to his own weight, supported by the second frame, but, in addition, as in any lever (9), the point at which the resistance force (R) is applied to the upward force is very important, since depending on its distance (D) to the axis (10) of rotation it is necessary to apply a greater or lesser force (F).

[0053] Thus, in order to regulate this distance (D) and therefore the value of the force (F) to overcome the resistance (R), this machine comprises a spindle (12) for regulating said resistance (R).

[0054] As shown in Figure 4, the lever (9) has an inner central hollow (17) along its longitudinal axis, such that the regulating spindle (12) is located in said hollow (17) and comprises means for activating a rotary motion along the longitudinal axis of the lever (9), such that the rotation of the spindle (12) allows the displacement of the support element along the lever (9).

[0055] Thus, the smaller the distance (D) between the support element and the axis (10) of rotation, the smaller the force (F) that must be applied to overcome the resistance (R), and vice versa. In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for activating the rotation of the spindle (12) are manual, by means of a crank (not shown in the Figures) connected to the spindle (12), but in other embodiments they may be automatic and consist of an electric motor, or even have both activation methods in case one fails, the other is available as an alternative.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on May 27, 2026 (27.05.2026) 1- Training machine, comprising a support structure (1) for the user's weight, which has training means (2) for performing one or more exercises, and a tension belt (3) having a first end (3.1) connected to the training means (2), characterized in that it comprises - a first fixed frame (4) having a lower base (6) configured for support on a surface, a first and a second opposite end (4.1, 4.2) and a first and a second side (7.1, 7.2) between them; - a second frame (5) attached to the support structure (1) for supporting the support structure and the user's weight, comprising a first and a second side (8.1, 8.2) and at least one first pulley between them; - connection means between both frames capable of allowing a rest position of the second frame (5) supported on the first end (4.1) of the first frame (4) and a working position such that the second frame (5) has a vertical displacement and is located at a distance above the first frame (4); - a user weight lifting mechanism comprising a lever (9) with a connecting end (9.1) to the first end (4.1) of the first frame (4) by means of a pivot axis (10) and a free end (9.2) with a second pulley (11), wherein the belt (3) runs through the first and second pulleys (11) to a second end (3.2) fixed to the first frame (4), and a support element for the connecting means between frames, located on the lever (9) at a distance (D) from the pivot axis (10), such that in the working position the belt (3) is capable of transmitting to the free end (9.2) of the lever (9) a force (F) applied to the training means (2), such that it allows the rotation of the lever (9) and the vertical displacement of the second frame (5) by the push of the support element on the connecting means between frames; - a spindle (12) connected to the support element for regulating its distance (D) to the axis (10) of rotation, and; - a covering casing of the first and second frame (4, 5).2- Machine according to claim 1, wherein the connection means between both frames are formed by a first pair of parallel and symmetrical connecting rods (13), each connected to the first and second side (7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2) respectively of both frames by means of respective first bearings (15), and a second pair of connecting rods (14) parallel to the first pair arranged at a higher level and connected to the first and second side (7.1, 7.2, 8.1, 8.2) respectively of both frames by means of respective first bearings (15). 3- Machine according to claim 2, wherein the second end (3.2) of the tension tape (3) is connected to the first frame (4) at a higher level than the connection to it of the second pair of connecting rods (14). 4- Machine according to any of claims 2 or 3, wherein the support element of the connecting means between frames is formed by two second bearings (16) located symmetrically on both sides of the lever such that each of the connecting rods of the first pair rests on one of said second bearings (16). 5- Machine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the lever (9) has an inner central recess (17) along its longitudinal axis and the regulating spindle (12) is located in said recess (17) and comprises means for activating a rotary motion along the longitudinal axis of the lever (9), such that the rotation of the spindle (12) allows the displacement of the support element along the lever (9). 6- Machine according to claim 5, wherein the means for activating the spindle rotation (12) are manual, by means of a crank connected to the spindle (12). 7- Machine according to any of claims 5 or 6, comprising automatic means for activating the spindle rotation (12) formed by an electric motor.

Images