US20100125025A1 - Training device for training a body part of a user - Google Patents
Training device for training a body part of a user Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100125025A1 US20100125025A1 US12/640,690 US64069009A US2010125025A1 US 20100125025 A1 US20100125025 A1 US 20100125025A1 US 64069009 A US64069009 A US 64069009A US 2010125025 A1 US2010125025 A1 US 2010125025A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- flexible coupling
- coupling member
- training
- movement
- training device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus ; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
- A61H1/005—Moveable platform, e.g. vibrating or oscillating platform for standing, sitting, laying, leaning
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/00196—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using pulsed counterforce, e.g. vibrating resistance means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/02—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using resilient force-resisters
- A63B21/023—Wound springs
- A63B21/025—Spiral springs with turns lying substantially in plane surfaces
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
- A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
- A63B21/153—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains wound-up and unwound during exercise, e.g. from a reel
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2205/00—Devices for specific parts of the body
- A61H2205/06—Arms
- A61H2205/065—Hands
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/0054—Features for injury prevention on an apparatus, e.g. shock absorbers
- A63B2071/0072—Limiting the applied force, torque, movement or speed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4033—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms
- A63B21/4035—Handles, pedals, bars or platforms for operation by hand
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
- A63B23/03508—For a single arm or leg
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a training device for training a body part of a user, and more particularly to a vibrating device for generating a vibration and an associated pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part.
- vibrating training devices may include tensioning devices.
- tension devices generally comprise a reeling means, a flexible coupling member operably connected to the reeling means and a handling member connected to the flexible coupling member.
- a user grasps and pulls the handling member, thereby pulling the flexible coupling member from the reeling means and creating a tension.
- Prior art tensioning devices typically comprise a spring biased to drive the reeling means.
- the spring is biased such that a retractive reeling force is exerted on the flexible coupling member towards the reeling means. Due to this, the reeling means, in use, constantly exerts a retractive reeling force on the flexible coupling member.
- a resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member is provided, and the flexible coupling member thereby is tensioned such that the vibration generated by the vibrating device is transferred to the handling member attached to the flexible coupling.
- the tensioned flexible coupling member will undesirably resonate such that the flexible coupling member moves with a resonance movement, and said resonance movement is undesirably transferred to the handling member.
- the handling member is not only desirably subjected to the vibration generated by the vibrating device, but also to the undesirable resonance movement of the flexible coupling member. This has a negative effect on the efficiency of the training.
- an improved training device for training a body part of a user that is configured to counter the negative effects the resonance movement described above.
- such an improved training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part.
- the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device and comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, and a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, which flexible coupling member couples the handling member to the reeling means.
- the pretensioning device further comprises a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that, in use, the flexible coupling member is tensioned for transferring the vibration generated by the vibrating device to the handling member.
- the pretensioning device further comprises a movement limiter for in use limiting a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- the training device for training a body part of a user of the present invention is configured to advantageously limit the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- the improved training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part.
- the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device and comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, and a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, the flexible coupling member coupling the handling member to the reeling means.
- the pretensioning device further comprises a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that, in use, the flexible coupling member is tensioned to allow the vibration generated by the vibrating device to be advantageously transferred to the handling member.
- the pretensioning device further comprises, in a disclosed embodiment, a movement limiter for in use limiting a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- the unreeled part of the flexible coupling member comprises a length L 1 and a first longitudinal axis
- the movement limiter extends along at least part of said length L 1 and surrounds said first longitudinal axis
- the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a frequency between 10-100 Hz, and more preferably with a frequency between 20-80 Hz, and most preferably with a frequency between 20-50 Hz.
- the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a vibration amplitude between 0.01-15 mm, and more preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-7 mm, and most preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-3 mm.
- a distance D between the flexible coupling member and the movement limiter in a direction substantially perpendicular to a first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling is smaller than an in use generated amplitude A of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member.
- the distance D may be between the 5 and 80% of said in use created amplitude A of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member, or between 1 and 20 mm.
- the movement limiter comprises a second longitudinal axis and the first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling member and the second longitudinal axis of the movement limiter substantially coincide.
- the movement limiter extends from the pretensioning device or the handling member and along the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member for at least 1 ⁇ 4 th of a wavelength 2 , of the in use created resonance movement of the flexible coupling member, and in an additional disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter extends along substantially the full length L 1 of the flexible coupling member. In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter substantially completely surrounds the flexible coupling member.
- the movement limiter comprises an adjustable length L 2 .
- the movement limiter may be configured such that the length L 2 thereof is adjustable to correspond to the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member.
- the movement limiter also may be configured with one end thereof connected to the pretensioning device and with the other end thereof connected to the handling member.
- the movement limiter comprises a helix member, such as a helix spring.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective schematic view of a disclosed embodiment of the training device according the principles of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional schematic view, along line II-II, of the pretensioning device shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional schematic view, along line III-III, of the pretensioning device shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of the pretensioning device shown in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part V of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 1 shows a training device 1 for training a body part of an user according to the principles of the present invention.
- the training device generally comprises a vibrating device 2 and a pretensioning device 3 for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part.
- the pretensioning device 3 is connected to the vibrating device 2 .
- the pretensioning device 3 may be connected to the vibrating device 2 using any appropriate means as is known in the art, including by clamping, bolting, screwing and other means, and pretensioning device 3 may be removably connected to vibrating device 2 or non-removably connected to vibrating device 2 .
- the pretensioning device 3 in the disclosed embodiment comprises a handling member 4 configured to be held by the user 32 and a reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) for reeling a flexible coupling member 5 .
- the flexible coupling member 5 couples the handling member 4 to the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ).
- the flexible coupling member 5 is unreeled over a length L 1 , and comprises a first longitudinal axis 21 over unreeled length L 1 .
- the pretensioning device 3 further comprises in the disclosed embodiment a tensioning means ( 7 of FIG. 2 ) for driving the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) such that in use the flexible coupling member 5 is tensioned for transferring a vibration generated by the vibrating device 2 to the handling member 4 and, ultimately, to the user 32 .
- the tensioning means 7 comprises in the disclosed embodiment a fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) configured to provide a resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the pretensioning device 3 further comprises a movement limiter 9 for use in advantageously limiting the resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 generated by the vibration of the vibrating device 2 .
- a movement limiter 9 for use in advantageously limiting the resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 generated by the vibration of the vibrating device 2 .
- handling member 4 is not subjected to (or at least is strongly isolated from) the resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the handling member 4 is advantageously only (or at least mainly) subjected to the vibration generated by the vibrating device 2 . This has a positive effect on the efficiency of the training.
- the movement limiter 9 in the disclosed embodiment of the present invention is connected at one end to the pretensioning device 3 and is connected at the other end to the handling member 4 .
- the movement limiter 9 has a length L 2 and preferably extends along the full length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 . Further, the length L 2 of the movement limiter 9 is adjustable such that the length L 2 of the movement limiter 9 , in use, corresponds to the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the movement limiter 9 comprises a helix member 24 in the form of a helix spring 25 .
- the vibrating device 2 comprises a vibrating plate 30 configured to vibrate as indicated by the arrow 31 , as is known in the art.
- the vibrating device 2 is configured to vibrate with a frequency between 10-100 Hz, and more preferably with a frequency between 20-80 Hz, and most preferably with a frequency between 20-50 Hz.
- the vibrating device 2 is further configured to vibrate with a vibration amplitude between 0.01-15 mm, and more preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-7 mm, and most preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-3 mm.
- the user 32 of the training device stands on the vibrating plate 30 .
- the vibrating device 2 may have instead of the vibrating plate 30 any other type of vibrating member.
- the pretensioning device 3 is connected to the vibrating device 2 such that vibrations generated by the vibrating device 2 are transferred to the pretensioning device 3 .
- the tensioning means ( 7 of FIG. 2 ) constantly drives the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) for reeling the flexible coupling member 5 . Due to this, the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ), in use, constantly exerts a retractive reeling force F r on the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) also provides a resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- Such resistance is the fluid resistance force F fr which the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) exerts on the flexible coupling member 5 during the unreeling thereof.
- the fluid resistance force F fr is in addition to the reeling force F r of the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) driven by the tensioning means ( 7 of FIG. 2 ).
- FIG. 1 This is shown in FIG. 1 , as the user 32 exerts a user force F u , on the flexible coupling member 5 via the handling member 4 .
- the user force F u is in the opposite direction of the reeling force F r which is constantly exerted on the flexible coupling member 5 by the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ).
- the pretensioning device 3 exerts a force equal to the reeling force F r on the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the flexible coupling member 5 when the user force F u , equals the reeling force F r , the flexible coupling member 5 will be in a static position which means that the flexible coupling member 5 will not be unreeled or reeled.
- the user force F u is smaller than the reeling force F r , the flexible coupling member 5 will be reeled.
- the user force F u is larger than the reeling force F r , the flexible coupling member 5 will be unreeled.
- the pretensioning device 3 exerts a force equal to the sum of the reeling force and the fluid resistance force (F r +F fr ) on the flexible coupling member 5 .
- a high resistance (F r +F fr ) against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 is achieved, in combination with a smaller reeling force (F r ) of reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) for reeling the flexible coupling member 5 .
- Such high resistance advantageously reduces the chance that the flexible coupling member 5 and the handling member 4 connected thereto are so strongly reeled by the reeling means ( 6 of FIG. 2 ) such that they make an uncontrolled sweeping movement.
- the training device 1 of the present invention is advantageously suitable for exercises which require a large resistance (F r +F fr ) against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 and a smaller force (F r ) pulling on the handling member 4 of an unreeled flexible coupling member 5 .
- the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) is configured such that the magnitude of the resistance of the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 is dependent on the speed by which the flexible coupling member 5 is unreeled.
- the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) is configured such that an increase of the speed by which the flexible coupling member 5 is unreeled leads to an increase of the resistance of the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ), and a decrease of the speed by which the flexible coupling member 5 is unreeled leads to a decrease of the resistance of the fluid resistance means ( 8 of FIG. 2 ) against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the training device 2 of the disclosed embodiment of the present invention is advantageously suitable for exercises wherein the user 32 experiences a larger resistance when he or she rapidly unreels the flexible coupling member 5 and a smaller resistance when he or she slowly unreels the flexible coupling member 5 .
- rapid (more “aggressive-like”) movements by which the flexible coupling member 5 is unreeled requires a larger effort than slower (less “aggressive-like”) movements. This advantageously provides an additional dimension to the performed exercises.
- the reeling means 6 comprises a reel 10 which is rotatable around a reel axis 11 .
- the reeling means 6 is configured to rotate the reel 10 in a reel direction 12 for reeling the flexible coupling member 5 and to rotate the reel 10 in an unreel direction 13 for unreeling the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the fluid resistance means 8 is connected to the reel axis 11 via freewheel means 14 configured to freely rotate around the reel axis 11 in the reel direction 12 and to engage the reel axis 11 in the unreel direction 13 . This also ensures that, in use, the flexible coupling member 5 is not unreeled by the vibrations generated by the vibrating device 2 . Thus, the fluid resistance means 8 is configured to substantially provide no resistance against the reeling of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the reel axis 11 comprises a longitudinal axis 27
- the tensioning means 7 comprises a spiral spring 28 connected to the reel axis 11
- the fluid resistance means 8 in the disclosed embodiment comprises a fluid casing 16 forming a fluid chamber 15 filled with a damper fluid 17 .
- a resistance member 18 is disposed inside the fluid chamber 15 .
- the fluid casing 16 is connected to the reel axis 11 via the freewheel means 14 .
- the resistance member 18 is configured such that it is not rotatable around the longitudinal axis 27 .
- the pretensioning device 3 device further comprises a pretensioning casing 29 and the resistance member 18 is connected to the pretensioning casing 29 such that the resistance member 18 is not rotatable around said longitudinal axis 27 .
- the resistance member 18 may be connected to the vibrating device 2 such that the resistance member 18 is not rotatable around said longitudinal axis 27 .
- the fluid resistance means 8 By configuring the fluid resistance means 8 such that the fluid casing 16 is rotatable and the resistance member 18 is not rotatable, a higher inertia resistance is created.
- the resistance member 18 in the disclosed embodiment comprises first protrusions 41 extending towards an inside wall 43 of the fluid casing 16 .
- the inside wall 43 comprises second protrusions 42 extending towards the first protrusions 41 .
- the fluid casing 16 is rotatable around the longitudinal axis 27 such that the second protrusions 42 do not collide with the first protrusions 41 .
- This means that the second protrusions 42 are movable between the first protrusions 41 .
- the degree of overlap of the first protrusions 41 and the second protrusions 42 determines the degree of resistance provided by the fluid resistance means 8 .
- the fluid resistance means 8 is configured to adjust the resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member by moving the resistance member 18 inside the fluid chamber 15 and substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis 27 .
- the direction of movement of the resistance member 18 is indicated by arrow 44 .
- the pretensioning device 3 in the disclosed embodiment further comprises adjusting means 19 for moving and holding the resistance member 18 in a number of specific locations along the longitudinal axis 27 .
- Each of the specific positions creates a different degree of overlap between the first protrusions 41 and the second protrusions 42 .
- the resistance member 18 comprises a lever 45 pivotable about a pivot point 46 and connected to the resistance member 18 .
- the pivot movement of the lever 45 is indicated by arrow 47 .
- the adjusting means 19 are configured to move and hold the resistance member 18 in three specific locations along said longitudinal axis 27 , although those skilled in the art will appreciate that the adjusting means 19 may be configured to move and hold the resistance member 18 in between two and five specific locations along the longitudinal axis 27 .
- the reel 10 is configured to hold the flexible coupling member 5 in a spiral-like configuration, which spiral-like configuration is located in a fictive plane extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 27 of the reel axis 11 .
- the reel 10 comprises a reel opening 23 at the circumference of the reel 10 , and the width W of the reel opening 23 is such that the windings of the flexible coupling member 5 are placed on top of each other.
- the pretensioning device 3 further comprises in the disclosed embodiment connection means for connecting said pretensioning device 3 to the vibrating device 2 such that vibrations generated by the vibrating device 2 are transferred to the pretensioning device 3 .
- the connection means may include combinations of clips and clamps 34 to removably attach the pretensioning device 3 to the vibrating device 2 , or may include any other appropriate connection means as is known in the art, including bolting, screwing and other means.
- pretensioning device 3 may be removably connected to vibrating device 2 or non-removably connected to vibrating device 2 .
- the movement limiter 9 in the disclosed embodiment of the present invention comprises a first end 35 connected to the handling member 4 and a second end 36 connected to the pretensioning device 3 .
- the length L 2 of the movement limiter 9 extends along the full length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the flexible coupling member 5 comprises a first longitudinal axis 21 and the movement limiter 9 comprises a second longitudinal axis 22 , wherein said first and second longitudinal axes, 21 and 22 , respectively, substantially coincide.
- the flexible coupling member 5 will resonate such that a resonance movement 20 is created.
- the resonance movement 20 undesirably creates waves 26 in the flexible coupling member 5 , the waves 26 comprising an amplitude A.
- the movement limiter 9 extends along the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 such that the movement limiter 9 surrounds a part of flexible coupling member 5 where, in use, an amplitude A of the resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 is created.
- the movement limiter 9 may be configured such that it extends along only a portion of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the movement limiter 9 entirely surrounds the flexible coupling member 5 ; however, the movement limiter 9 should at least partly surround the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the waves 26 created by the resonance movement 20 have a wavelength 2 .
- the movement limiter 9 extends from the pretensioning device 3 or the handling member 4 and along the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 for at least 1 ⁇ 4 th (and, preferably, at least 1 ⁇ 2 th ) of a wavelength 2 , of the in use created resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the distance D between the flexible coupling member 5 and the movement limiter 9 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis 21 of the flexible coupling member 5 is smaller than the in use generated amplitude A of the resonance movement 20 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the distance D is between the 5 and 80% (and, more preferably, between 10 and 70%) of said amplitude A, with the distance D being between 1 and 20 mm (and, more preferably, between 3 and 15 mm).
- the length L 2 of the movement limiter 9 is adjustable to account to the changing length of flexible coupling member 5 when it is reeled and unreeled.
- the length L 2 of the movement limiter 9 in use, preferably corresponds to the length L 1 of the flexible coupling member 5 .
- the movement limiter 9 comprises a helix member 24
- the helix member comprises a helix spring 25 .
- other helical members may be used.
Abstract
A training device for training a body part of a user is configured to advantageously limit the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device. The training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part. The pretensioning device comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, and a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that the flexible coupling member is tensioned to allow the vibration generated by the vibrating device to be transferred to the handling member. The pretensioning device further comprises a movement limiter to limit a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of International (PCT) Application No. PCT/NL2008/000279, filed on Dec. 17, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates generally to a training device for training a body part of a user, and more particularly to a vibrating device for generating a vibration and an associated pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part.
- In training devices known in the prior art, vibrating training devices may include tensioning devices. Such tension devices generally comprise a reeling means, a flexible coupling member operably connected to the reeling means and a handling member connected to the flexible coupling member. In use, a user grasps and pulls the handling member, thereby pulling the flexible coupling member from the reeling means and creating a tension.
- Prior art tensioning devices typically comprise a spring biased to drive the reeling means. The spring is biased such that a retractive reeling force is exerted on the flexible coupling member towards the reeling means. Due to this, the reeling means, in use, constantly exerts a retractive reeling force on the flexible coupling member. Thus, a resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member is provided, and the flexible coupling member thereby is tensioned such that the vibration generated by the vibrating device is transferred to the handling member attached to the flexible coupling.
- Due to the vibration generated by the vibrating device, the tensioned flexible coupling member will undesirably resonate such that the flexible coupling member moves with a resonance movement, and said resonance movement is undesirably transferred to the handling member. As a result, the handling member is not only desirably subjected to the vibration generated by the vibrating device, but also to the undesirable resonance movement of the flexible coupling member. This has a negative effect on the efficiency of the training.
- Thus, what is needed is an improved training device for training a body part of a user that is configured to counter the negative effects the resonance movement described above. Desirably, such an improved training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part. More desirably, the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device and comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, and a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, which flexible coupling member couples the handling member to the reeling means.
- More desirably still, the pretensioning device further comprises a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that, in use, the flexible coupling member is tensioned for transferring the vibration generated by the vibrating device to the handling member. Most desirably, the pretensioning device further comprises a movement limiter for in use limiting a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- The training device for training a body part of a user of the present invention is configured to advantageously limit the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the improved training device comprises a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part. In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device and comprises a handling member configured to be held by the user, and a reeling means for reeling a flexible coupling member, the flexible coupling member coupling the handling member to the reeling means.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the pretensioning device further comprises a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that, in use, the flexible coupling member is tensioned to allow the vibration generated by the vibrating device to be advantageously transferred to the handling member. The pretensioning device further comprises, in a disclosed embodiment, a movement limiter for in use limiting a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
- Additionally, in a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the unreeled part of the flexible coupling member comprises a length L1 and a first longitudinal axis, and the movement limiter extends along at least part of said length L1 and surrounds said first longitudinal axis.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a frequency between 10-100 Hz, and more preferably with a frequency between 20-80 Hz, and most preferably with a frequency between 20-50 Hz.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a vibration amplitude between 0.01-15 mm, and more preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-7 mm, and most preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-3 mm.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, a distance D between the flexible coupling member and the movement limiter in a direction substantially perpendicular to a first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling is smaller than an in use generated amplitude A of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member. Preferably, the distance D may be between the 5 and 80% of said in use created amplitude A of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member, or between 1 and 20 mm.
- In an additional disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter comprises a second longitudinal axis and the first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling member and the second longitudinal axis of the movement limiter substantially coincide.
- In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter extends from the pretensioning device or the handling member and along the length L1 of the flexible coupling member for at least ¼th of a
wavelength 2, of the in use created resonance movement of the flexible coupling member, and in an additional disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter extends along substantially the full length L1 of the flexible coupling member. In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter substantially completely surrounds the flexible coupling member. - In a further disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter comprises an adjustable length L2. The movement limiter may be configured such that the length L2 thereof is adjustable to correspond to the length L1 of the flexible coupling member. The movement limiter also may be configured with one end thereof connected to the pretensioning device and with the other end thereof connected to the handling member.
- Finally, in a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, the movement limiter comprises a helix member, such as a helix spring.
- These and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description, in conjunction with the appended claims.
- The benefits and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective schematic view of a disclosed embodiment of the training device according the principles of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional schematic view, along line II-II, of the pretensioning device shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional schematic view, along line III-III, of the pretensioning device shown inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded cross-sectional perspective view of the pretensioning device shown inFIG. 1 ; and, -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of part V ofFIG. 1 . - While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described and disclosed a present embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
- It should be further understood that the title of this section of this specification, namely, “Detailed Description of the Invention,” relates to a requirement of the United States Patent Office, and does not imply, nor should be inferred to limit the subject matter disclosed herein.
-
FIG. 1 shows atraining device 1 for training a body part of an user according to the principles of the present invention. The training device generally comprises avibrating device 2 and apretensioning device 3 for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part. Thepretensioning device 3 is connected to thevibrating device 2. Thepretensioning device 3 may be connected to the vibratingdevice 2 using any appropriate means as is known in the art, including by clamping, bolting, screwing and other means, and pretensioningdevice 3 may be removably connected to vibratingdevice 2 or non-removably connected to vibratingdevice 2. - The
pretensioning device 3 in the disclosed embodiment comprises a handlingmember 4 configured to be held by theuser 32 and a reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) for reeling aflexible coupling member 5. Theflexible coupling member 5 couples the handlingmember 4 to the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ). Theflexible coupling member 5 is unreeled over a length L1, and comprises a firstlongitudinal axis 21 over unreeled length L1. - The
pretensioning device 3 further comprises in the disclosed embodiment a tensioning means (7 ofFIG. 2 ) for driving the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) such that in use theflexible coupling member 5 is tensioned for transferring a vibration generated by the vibratingdevice 2 to the handlingmember 4 and, ultimately, to theuser 32. The tensioning means 7 comprises in the disclosed embodiment a fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ) configured to provide a resistance against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5. - Due to fact that the
flexible coupling member 5 transfers the vibration of the vibratingdevice 2, a resonance movement (20 inFIG. 5 ) of theflexible coupling member 5 is created. Thus, thepretensioning device 3 further comprises amovement limiter 9 for use in advantageously limiting theresonance movement 20 of theflexible coupling member 5 generated by the vibration of the vibratingdevice 2. Using themovement limiter 9, handlingmember 4 is not subjected to (or at least is strongly isolated from) theresonance movement 20 of theflexible coupling member 5. Thus, the handlingmember 4 is advantageously only (or at least mainly) subjected to the vibration generated by the vibratingdevice 2. This has a positive effect on the efficiency of the training. - The movement limiter 9 in the disclosed embodiment of the present invention is connected at one end to the
pretensioning device 3 and is connected at the other end to the handlingmember 4. Themovement limiter 9 has a length L2 and preferably extends along the full length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5. Further, the length L2 of themovement limiter 9 is adjustable such that the length L2 of themovement limiter 9, in use, corresponds to the length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5. In the disclosed embodiment of the present invention, themovement limiter 9 comprises ahelix member 24 in the form of ahelix spring 25. - The vibrating
device 2 comprises a vibratingplate 30 configured to vibrate as indicated by thearrow 31, as is known in the art. The vibratingdevice 2 is configured to vibrate with a frequency between 10-100 Hz, and more preferably with a frequency between 20-80 Hz, and most preferably with a frequency between 20-50 Hz. - The vibrating
device 2 is further configured to vibrate with a vibration amplitude between 0.01-15 mm, and more preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-7 mm, and most preferably with a vibration amplitude between 0.1-3 mm. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theuser 32 of the training device stands on the vibratingplate 30. As appreciated by those skilled in the art, the vibratingdevice 2 may have instead of the vibratingplate 30 any other type of vibrating member. Thepretensioning device 3 is connected to the vibratingdevice 2 such that vibrations generated by the vibratingdevice 2 are transferred to thepretensioning device 3. - In use, the tensioning means (7 of
FIG. 2 ) constantly drives the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) for reeling theflexible coupling member 5. Due to this, the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ), in use, constantly exerts a retractive reeling force Fr on theflexible coupling member 5. This creates three advantageous effects: first, a resistance against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5 is provided; second, theflexible coupling member 5 is tensioned such that the vibration generated by the vibratingdevice 2 is transferred to the handlingmember 4; and, third, an unreeledflexible coupling member 5 is reeled by the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ). - The fluid resistance means (8 of
FIG. 2 ) also provides a resistance against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5. Such resistance is the fluid resistance force Ffr which the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ) exerts on theflexible coupling member 5 during the unreeling thereof. The fluid resistance force Ffr is in addition to the reeling force Fr of the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) driven by the tensioning means (7 ofFIG. 2 ). - This is shown in
FIG. 1 , as theuser 32 exerts a user force Fu, on theflexible coupling member 5 via the handlingmember 4. The user force Fu, is in the opposite direction of the reeling force Fr which is constantly exerted on theflexible coupling member 5 by the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ). When the user force Fu, is smaller than or equal to the reeling force Fr, thepretensioning device 3 exerts a force equal to the reeling force Fr on theflexible coupling member 5. - As those skilled in the art will appreciate, when the user force Fu, equals the reeling force Fr, the
flexible coupling member 5 will be in a static position which means that theflexible coupling member 5 will not be unreeled or reeled. When the user force Fu, is smaller than the reeling force Fr, theflexible coupling member 5 will be reeled. And, when the user force Fu, is larger than the reeling force Fr, theflexible coupling member 5 will be unreeled. In such situation thepretensioning device 3 exerts a force equal to the sum of the reeling force and the fluid resistance force (Fr+Ffr) on theflexible coupling member 5. - With the use of the fluid resistance means (8 of
FIG. 2 ) a high resistance (Fr+Ffr) against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5 is achieved, in combination with a smaller reeling force (Fr) of reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) for reeling theflexible coupling member 5. Such high resistance advantageously reduces the chance that theflexible coupling member 5 and the handlingmember 4 connected thereto are so strongly reeled by the reeling means (6 ofFIG. 2 ) such that they make an uncontrolled sweeping movement. - Furthermore, due to this combination of resistance, the
training device 1 of the present invention is advantageously suitable for exercises which require a large resistance (Fr+Ffr) against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5 and a smaller force (Fr) pulling on the handlingmember 4 of an unreeledflexible coupling member 5. - In the disclosed embodiment, the fluid resistance means (8 of
FIG. 2 ) is configured such that the magnitude of the resistance of the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ) against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5 is dependent on the speed by which theflexible coupling member 5 is unreeled. - That is, unreeling the
flexible coupling member 5 with a higher speed leads to a higher resistance of the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ). Unreeling theflexible coupling member 5 with a lower speed leads to a lower resistance of the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ). It thus follows that the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ) is configured such that an increase of the speed by which theflexible coupling member 5 is unreeled leads to an increase of the resistance of the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ), and a decrease of the speed by which theflexible coupling member 5 is unreeled leads to a decrease of the resistance of the fluid resistance means (8 ofFIG. 2 ) against the unreeling of theflexible coupling member 5. - Due to this, the
training device 2 of the disclosed embodiment of the present invention is advantageously suitable for exercises wherein theuser 32 experiences a larger resistance when he or she rapidly unreels theflexible coupling member 5 and a smaller resistance when he or she slowly unreels theflexible coupling member 5. In this manner, rapid (more “aggressive-like”) movements by which theflexible coupling member 5 is unreeled requires a larger effort than slower (less “aggressive-like”) movements. This advantageously provides an additional dimension to the performed exercises. - As shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , the reelingmeans 6 comprises areel 10 which is rotatable around areel axis 11. The reeling means 6 is configured to rotate thereel 10 in areel direction 12 for reeling theflexible coupling member 5 and to rotate thereel 10 in anunreel direction 13 for unreeling theflexible coupling member 5. - As also shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , the fluid resistance means 8 is connected to thereel axis 11 via freewheel means 14 configured to freely rotate around thereel axis 11 in thereel direction 12 and to engage thereel axis 11 in theunreel direction 13. This also ensures that, in use, theflexible coupling member 5 is not unreeled by the vibrations generated by the vibratingdevice 2. Thus, the fluid resistance means 8 is configured to substantially provide no resistance against the reeling of theflexible coupling member 5. - As further shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , thereel axis 11 comprises alongitudinal axis 27, and the tensioning means 7 comprises aspiral spring 28 connected to thereel axis 11. As also shown inFIG. 2 , the fluid resistance means 8 in the disclosed embodiment comprises afluid casing 16 forming afluid chamber 15 filled with adamper fluid 17. Aresistance member 18 is disposed inside thefluid chamber 15. Thefluid casing 16 is connected to thereel axis 11 via the freewheel means 14. - The
resistance member 18 is configured such that it is not rotatable around thelongitudinal axis 27. To that end, in the disclosed embodiment, thepretensioning device 3 device further comprises apretensioning casing 29 and theresistance member 18 is connected to thepretensioning casing 29 such that theresistance member 18 is not rotatable around saidlongitudinal axis 27. - In some embodiments of the present invention, the
resistance member 18 may be connected to the vibratingdevice 2 such that theresistance member 18 is not rotatable around saidlongitudinal axis 27. By configuring the fluid resistance means 8 such that thefluid casing 16 is rotatable and theresistance member 18 is not rotatable, a higher inertia resistance is created. - As shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , theresistance member 18 in the disclosed embodiment comprisesfirst protrusions 41 extending towards aninside wall 43 of thefluid casing 16. Theinside wall 43 comprisessecond protrusions 42 extending towards thefirst protrusions 41. Thefluid casing 16 is rotatable around thelongitudinal axis 27 such that thesecond protrusions 42 do not collide with thefirst protrusions 41. This means that thesecond protrusions 42 are movable between thefirst protrusions 41. The degree of overlap of thefirst protrusions 41 and thesecond protrusions 42 determines the degree of resistance provided by the fluid resistance means 8. - The fluid resistance means 8 is configured to adjust the resistance against the unreeling of the flexible coupling member by moving the
resistance member 18 inside thefluid chamber 15 and substantially in the direction of thelongitudinal axis 27. The direction of movement of theresistance member 18 is indicated byarrow 44. - As shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , thepretensioning device 3 in the disclosed embodiment further comprises adjusting means 19 for moving and holding theresistance member 18 in a number of specific locations along thelongitudinal axis 27. Each of the specific positions creates a different degree of overlap between thefirst protrusions 41 and thesecond protrusions 42. - To that end, the
resistance member 18 comprises alever 45 pivotable about apivot point 46 and connected to theresistance member 18. The pivot movement of thelever 45 is indicated byarrow 47. In this disclosed embodiment, the adjusting means 19 are configured to move and hold theresistance member 18 in three specific locations along saidlongitudinal axis 27, although those skilled in the art will appreciate that the adjusting means 19 may be configured to move and hold theresistance member 18 in between two and five specific locations along thelongitudinal axis 27. - As shown in
FIGS. 2-4 , in the disclosed embodiment, thereel 10 is configured to hold theflexible coupling member 5 in a spiral-like configuration, which spiral-like configuration is located in a fictive plane extending substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 27 of thereel axis 11. Thereel 10 comprises areel opening 23 at the circumference of thereel 10, and the width W of thereel opening 23 is such that the windings of theflexible coupling member 5 are placed on top of each other. - The
pretensioning device 3 further comprises in the disclosed embodiment connection means for connecting saidpretensioning device 3 to the vibratingdevice 2 such that vibrations generated by the vibratingdevice 2 are transferred to thepretensioning device 3. The connection means may include combinations of clips and clamps 34 to removably attach thepretensioning device 3 to the vibratingdevice 2, or may include any other appropriate connection means as is known in the art, including bolting, screwing and other means. To that end,pretensioning device 3 may be removably connected to vibratingdevice 2 or non-removably connected to vibratingdevice 2. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , themovement limiter 9 in the disclosed embodiment of the present invention comprises afirst end 35 connected to the handlingmember 4 and asecond end 36 connected to thepretensioning device 3. The length L2 of themovement limiter 9 extends along the full length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5. Theflexible coupling member 5 comprises a firstlongitudinal axis 21 and themovement limiter 9 comprises a secondlongitudinal axis 22, wherein said first and second longitudinal axes, 21 and 22, respectively, substantially coincide. - Due to the vibration of the
vibration device 2, theflexible coupling member 5 will resonate such that aresonance movement 20 is created. Theresonance movement 20 undesirably createswaves 26 in theflexible coupling member 5, thewaves 26 comprising an amplitude A. - The
movement limiter 9 extends along the length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5 such that themovement limiter 9 surrounds a part offlexible coupling member 5 where, in use, an amplitude A of theresonance movement 20 of theflexible coupling member 5 is created. In some embodiments of the present invention, themovement limiter 9 may be configured such that it extends along only a portion of theflexible coupling member 5. Preferably, themovement limiter 9 entirely surrounds theflexible coupling member 5; however, themovement limiter 9 should at least partly surround theflexible coupling member 5. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , thewaves 26 created by theresonance movement 20 have awavelength 2. In the disclosed embodiment of the present invention, themovement limiter 9 extends from thepretensioning device 3 or the handlingmember 4 and along the length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5 for at least ¼th (and, preferably, at least ½th) of awavelength 2, of the in use createdresonance movement 20 of theflexible coupling member 5. - The distance D between the
flexible coupling member 5 and themovement limiter 9 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the firstlongitudinal axis 21 of theflexible coupling member 5 is smaller than the in use generated amplitude A of theresonance movement 20 of theflexible coupling member 5. Preferably, the distance D is between the 5 and 80% (and, more preferably, between 10 and 70%) of said amplitude A, with the distance D being between 1 and 20 mm (and, more preferably, between 3 and 15 mm). - The length L2 of the
movement limiter 9 is adjustable to account to the changing length offlexible coupling member 5 when it is reeled and unreeled. Thus, the length L2 of themovement limiter 9, in use, preferably corresponds to the length L1 of theflexible coupling member 5. In the disclosed embodiment of the present invention, themovement limiter 9 comprises ahelix member 24, and in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the helix member comprises ahelix spring 25. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other helical members may be used. - All patents referred to herein, are hereby incorporated herein by reference, whether or not specifically done so within the text of this disclosure.
- In the present disclosure, the words “a” or “an” are to be taken to include both the singular and the plural. Conversely, any reference to plural items shall, where appropriate, include the singular.
- From the foregoing it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effectuated without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the present invention.
- It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.
Claims (20)
1. A training device for training a body part of a user, comprising;
a vibrating device for generating a vibration; and
a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part of the user, wherein the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device, and
wherein the pretensioning device comprises a flexible coupling member, a handling member configured to be held by the user, a reeling means for reeling the flexible coupling member, the flexible coupling member coupling the handling member to the reeling means, and a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that in use the flexible coupling member is tensioned for transferring the vibration generated by the vibrating device to the handling member, and
wherein the pretensioning device further comprises a movement limiter configured to limit a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device.
2. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the flexible coupling member comprises an unreeled portion, the unreeled portion have a length and a first longitudinal axis.
3. The training device according to claim 2 wherein the movement limiter extends along at least part of the length of the unreeled portion of the flexible coupling member.
4. The training device according to claim 2 wherein the movement limiter at least partially surrounds the unreeled portion of the flexible coupling member.
5. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a frequency between 10-100 Hz.
6. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the vibrating device is configured to vibrate with a vibration amplitude between 0.01-15 mm.
7. The training device according claim 1 wherein a distance between the flexible coupling member and the movement limiter in a direction substantially perpendicular to a first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling member is smaller than an in use generated amplitude of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member.
8. The training device according to claim 7 wherein the distance is between 5 and 80% of the in use created amplitude of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member.
9. The training device according to claim 7 wherein the distance is between 1 and 20 mm.
10. The training device according to claim 2 wherein the movement limiter comprises a second longitudinal axis and wherein the first longitudinal axis of the flexible coupling member and the second longitudinal axis of the movement limiter substantially coincide.
11. The training device according to claim 2 wherein the movement limiter extends from the pretensioning device or from the handling member along the length of the unreeled portion of the flexible coupling member for at least ¼th of a wavelength of the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member.
12. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the flexible coupling member comprises a length and the movement limiter extends along substantially the entire length of the flexible coupling member.
13. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the movement limiter substantially completely surrounds the flexible coupling member.
14. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the movement limiter comprises an adjustable length.
15. The training device according to claim 14 wherein the length of the movement limiter is adjustable to correspond to a length of the flexible coupling member.
16. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the movement limiter comprises a helix member.
17. The training device according to claim 1 wherein the movement limiter comprises a helix spring.
18. A pretensioning device for use with a training device, comprising:
a flexible coupling member;
a handling member;
a reeling means for reeling the flexible coupling member, the flexible coupling member coupling the handling member and the reeling means;
a tensioning means for driving the reeling means; and
a movement limiter configured to limit a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the training device.
19. The pretensioning device according claim 18 wherein the training device comprises a vibrating device, and wherein the pretensioning device further comprises a connection means for connecting the pretensioning device to the vibrating device such that a vibration generated by the vibrating device is transferred to the pretensioning device.
20. A method for training a body part of a user, comprising the steps of:
providing a training device, the training device comprising a vibrating device for generating a vibration and a pretensioning device for generating a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part of the user, wherein the pretensioning device is connected to the vibrating device, and wherein the pretensioning device comprises a flexible coupling member, a handling member configured to be held by the user, a reeling means for reeling the flexible coupling member, the flexible coupling member coupling the handling member to the reeling means, and a tensioning means for driving the reeling means such that in use the flexible coupling member is tensioned for transferring the vibration generated by the vibrating device to the handling member, and wherein the pretensioning device further comprises a movement limiter configured to limit a resonance movement of the flexible coupling member generated by the vibration of the vibrating device;
unreeling the flexible coupling member to create a pre-tension in a muscle of the body part of the user;
causing the vibrating device to generate the vibration; and
limiting the resonance movement of the flexible coupling member.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
NLPCT/NL2008/000279 | 2008-12-17 | ||
PCT/NL2008/000279 WO2010071402A1 (en) | 2008-12-17 | 2008-12-17 | Training device for training a body part of a user |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100125025A1 true US20100125025A1 (en) | 2010-05-20 |
Family
ID=41131576
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/640,690 Abandoned US20100125025A1 (en) | 2008-12-17 | 2009-12-17 | Training device for training a body part of a user |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20100125025A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010071402A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100105524A1 (en) * | 2007-02-28 | 2010-04-29 | Philippe Laurent | Vibrating plate apparatus for muscular toning |
US20100125031A1 (en) * | 2008-12-17 | 2010-05-20 | Power Plate North America, Inc. | Training device for training a body part of a user |
Citations (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2725231A (en) * | 1953-06-01 | 1955-11-29 | John L Powers | Rowing machine |
US4948119A (en) * | 1987-03-30 | 1990-08-14 | Robertson Jr Richard T | Swimming motion exercise machine |
US5716330A (en) * | 1995-07-13 | 1998-02-10 | Goldman; David A. | Body and limb position/motion detector and power assist apparatus and method |
US20060073945A1 (en) * | 2004-09-24 | 2006-04-06 | Brian Zuckerman | Exercise apparatus |
US20060252610A1 (en) * | 2005-05-06 | 2006-11-09 | Soloflex, Inc. | Method and apparatus for attaching a vibration unit to an exercise device |
US7214170B2 (en) * | 2002-03-12 | 2007-05-08 | South Bank University Enterprises Ltd. | Vibrationary exercise apparatus |
US20070173376A1 (en) * | 2003-05-27 | 2007-07-26 | Van Der Meer Augustinus L N | Fitness machine |
US20070287610A1 (en) * | 2004-12-06 | 2007-12-13 | Pavel Novak | Pelvic Trainer |
US20090221402A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2009-09-03 | Sin Lin Technology Co., Ltd. | Vibration device for muscle training |
US7682287B1 (en) * | 2009-04-16 | 2010-03-23 | Chi Hua Fitness Co., Ltd. | Powered strength trainer |
US20100125031A1 (en) * | 2008-12-17 | 2010-05-20 | Power Plate North America, Inc. | Training device for training a body part of a user |
US20100151994A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2010-06-17 | Sin Lin Technology Co., Ltd | Vibration training device |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2008063048A1 (en) * | 2006-11-20 | 2008-05-29 | Power Plate International Ltd. | Training device, training assembly and training method |
DE202008015674U1 (en) * | 2008-11-26 | 2009-03-26 | Schiessl, Hans | Device for generating a training force for a user of a training device |
-
2008
- 2008-12-17 WO PCT/NL2008/000279 patent/WO2010071402A1/en active Application Filing
-
2009
- 2009-12-17 US US12/640,690 patent/US20100125025A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (12)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2725231A (en) * | 1953-06-01 | 1955-11-29 | John L Powers | Rowing machine |
US4948119A (en) * | 1987-03-30 | 1990-08-14 | Robertson Jr Richard T | Swimming motion exercise machine |
US5716330A (en) * | 1995-07-13 | 1998-02-10 | Goldman; David A. | Body and limb position/motion detector and power assist apparatus and method |
US7214170B2 (en) * | 2002-03-12 | 2007-05-08 | South Bank University Enterprises Ltd. | Vibrationary exercise apparatus |
US20070173376A1 (en) * | 2003-05-27 | 2007-07-26 | Van Der Meer Augustinus L N | Fitness machine |
US20060073945A1 (en) * | 2004-09-24 | 2006-04-06 | Brian Zuckerman | Exercise apparatus |
US20070287610A1 (en) * | 2004-12-06 | 2007-12-13 | Pavel Novak | Pelvic Trainer |
US20060252610A1 (en) * | 2005-05-06 | 2006-11-09 | Soloflex, Inc. | Method and apparatus for attaching a vibration unit to an exercise device |
US20090221402A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2009-09-03 | Sin Lin Technology Co., Ltd. | Vibration device for muscle training |
US20100151994A1 (en) * | 2007-11-05 | 2010-06-17 | Sin Lin Technology Co., Ltd | Vibration training device |
US20100125031A1 (en) * | 2008-12-17 | 2010-05-20 | Power Plate North America, Inc. | Training device for training a body part of a user |
US7682287B1 (en) * | 2009-04-16 | 2010-03-23 | Chi Hua Fitness Co., Ltd. | Powered strength trainer |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100105524A1 (en) * | 2007-02-28 | 2010-04-29 | Philippe Laurent | Vibrating plate apparatus for muscular toning |
US8002684B2 (en) * | 2007-02-28 | 2011-08-23 | Fithealth Sarl | Vibrating plate apparatus for muscular toning |
US20100125031A1 (en) * | 2008-12-17 | 2010-05-20 | Power Plate North America, Inc. | Training device for training a body part of a user |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010071402A1 (en) | 2010-06-24 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7762935B2 (en) | Exercise apparatus resistance unit | |
US6790163B1 (en) | Swim stroke exercise device | |
US20100125031A1 (en) | Training device for training a body part of a user | |
CN102317125B (en) | Damper assembly and device utilizing the same | |
US10220261B1 (en) | Mountable resistance exercise device | |
US11161004B2 (en) | Weight training equipment with adjustable handle angle | |
US20170320712A1 (en) | Winch and method for using the same | |
US20100125025A1 (en) | Training device for training a body part of a user | |
US20050277521A1 (en) | Rowing exercising apparatus | |
JP2011156358A (en) | Arm training machine | |
US766743A (en) | Physical exerciser and developer. | |
EP0754477A1 (en) | New handle of golf club with improved control | |
EP2685955B1 (en) | Training system for training a body part of a user | |
US20180111732A1 (en) | Quick-adjust Tensioner | |
JP6000562B2 (en) | Switchgear and method for manufacturing the switchgear | |
CN201121078Y (en) | Wind spring apparatus of pipeline coiler | |
KR101502570B1 (en) | Automatic binding device of packing the string | |
TW201336559A (en) | A sports training apparatus | |
KR20040015292A (en) | Device for storing a cable | |
KR20160032486A (en) | Exercising instrument | |
KR101233418B1 (en) | Mountable vibration damping structure | |
US5499960A (en) | Multi-functional exercise device | |
JP2003239339A (en) | Shower hose housing device | |
CN218280412U (en) | Double damping structure of water resistance rowing machine and water resistance rowing machine | |
US20210052935A1 (en) | Exercise weight support device enhancements |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: POWER PLATE NORTH AMERICA, INC.,CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:VAN DER MEER, AUGUSTINUS LEONARDUS NICOLAAS;REEL/FRAME:023874/0697 Effective date: 20091223 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |