Adjustable Barbell Weight Selector With Secure Over-Center Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional free weights, such as dumbbells and barbells, require time-consuming and potentially hazardous manual adjustments to change weight, and existing adjustable systems lack efficient mechanisms for seamless weight selection and retention.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable barbell system with a handle assembly and weight selector mechanism that allows for quick weight adjustments through a rotational selector knob, incorporating a gear assembly and over-center mechanism for secure coupling and uncoupling of weights, with a base for automatic unlocking and retention features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional free weights are used, then weight can be changed by adding or removing plates, but the process is time-consuming and requires manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The selector knob mechanism allows the weight selection system to automatically engage and secure the selected weight plates without requiring manual handling or assembly by the user. When the user rotates the selector knob to the desired weight position, the mechanism self-secures the weights through automatic engagement of locking features, eliminating the need for manual plate attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical system of sliding collars and stacking plates with a rotary selector knob mechanism that uses a different mechanical approach - a dial indicator system with corresponding weight indicators that automatically align and lock when rotated to the selected position, reducing the complexity of manual weight changes.
2Reliability
If traditional adjustable systems are used, then weight can be adjusted, but secure retention and prevention of accidental disengagement are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The selector knob mechanism incorporates a dial indicator system that provides visual confirmation of the selected weight position before the user releases the knob. The mechanism includes built-in stopping features and alignment indicators that prevent accidental misselection and ensure the weights are properly engaged before use, cushioning against potential errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dial indicator as an intermediary element between the user's selection and the actual weight engagement. The indicator system acts as a mediator that confirms proper alignment and engagement of the weight selection mechanism, providing an additional layer of assurance that the weights are securely retained without requiring complex locking components.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If manual plate adjustment is used, then weight can be changed, but safety hazards such as pinching fingers or dropping plates occur
Solution Approach 1:
The selector knob mechanism performs the entire weight selection and securing process automatically without requiring the user to manually handle weight plates. The system self-secures the selected weights through automatic engagement features, eliminating the safety hazards associated with manual plate handling while maintaining efficient weight changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The dial indicator system serves as an intermediary that guides the user's selection process and confirms proper engagement, preventing accidental misselection and ensuring safe operation. The mechanism mediates between user input and weight engagement, providing visual feedback that reduces the risk of injury during weight adjustment.
4Ease of operation
If a rotary selector mechanism is implemented, then weight selection becomes easier, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex internal securing mechanism from the user's direct interaction. The selector knob itself remains simple and easy to operate, while the complex engagement and retention features are contained within the mechanism's internal structure, invisible to the user during operation. This separates the simple user interface from the complex internal workings.
Solution Approach 2:
The selector mechanism employs a nested structure where the dial indicator system is integrated within the selector knob assembly, and the weight engagement features are nested within the mechanism's internal components. This nested arrangement allows the complex functionality to be contained within a compact form that presents a simple external interface to the user.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable barbell system may include a base, two or more weights, a handle assembly, an additional weight, and selection assembly. The two or more weights may be supported by the base and grouped into a first set of weights associated with one end of the barbell system and a second set of weights associated with an opposing end of the barbell system. The handle assembly may be selectively fixedly joined to the first and second set of weights. The additional weight may be disposed distally of the handle assembly. The selection assembly may be secured to the additional weight. The selection assembly may include a selection member that may be linearly moveable between a selected position where the additional weight is operatively secured to the handle assembly and an unselected position where the additional weight is disengaged from the handle assembly.