TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The following generally relates to exercise equipment and more specifically relates to weightlifting equipment such as dumbbells and barbells.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Weightlifting is the process of lifting weights to develop muscle mass and tone. There are many apparatuses available for weightlifting including resistance machines such as cable machines; and free weights such as kettlebells, dumbbells, and barbells. Depending on their ability and preference, the user is generally able to choose the amount of weight they wish to lift. Resistance machines generally offer a wide range of weights such as from 5 lbs to 200 lbs, with increments of 10 lbs. While resistance machines are highly customizable, they are also very expensive and bulky.

[0003] On the other hand, free weights such as kettle bells and dumbbells are inexpensive and typically come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, additional weights cannot generally be added to increase the weight of kettlebells and dumbbells, and therefore, these are not customizable by the user, unless the user has a variety of sizes available.

[0004] Dumbbells are typically lifted using only one hand and can be used for exercises such as single-handed bicep curls, tricep curls, lateral and anterior arm raises, rows, and shoulder flies to name a few. The barbell is typically lifted using two hands and can be used for exercises such as, but not limited to, two-handed bicep curls, deadlifts, cleans, snatches, jerks, rows, front squats, back squats, and overhead presses. Barbells and dumbbells typically comprise a bar having two weighted ends. Sometimes, additional weights in the shape of discs, called plates, can be added to either ends of the barbells to increase the weight. Barbells are therefore highly customizable and generally offer a very wide range of weights such as from 5 lbs to over 400 lbs, with increments of 5 lbs, in one instance. Additional weights cannot typically be added to dumbbells.

[0005] There exists a need for a fully customizable and easy to use weight-lifting system that can be stored easily, in a space effective manner.

SUMMARY [0006] A weightlifting apparatus comprising a bar having two ends, the ends comprising a plurality of channels shaped for receiving modular weights from an open end of the channel, a closed end of the channel for holding the modular weights; and a locking mechanism for locking the modular weights into the channels; wherein the locking mechanism comprises an open position and a locked position; removable cap for holding the modular weights,

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 is an image showing a perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0009] FIG. 2A is an image showing the modular weights being added to the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0010] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustable weightlifting device showing modular weights being added;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having modular weights;

[0012] FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 2;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0015] FIG. 7A is a front view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0016] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the isolated adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 7, taken along line A-A;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a transparent view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0018] FIG. 9 is an alternate view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 8;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the adjustable weightlifting device; [0020] FIG. 11 A is a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0021] FIG. 11 B is a top perspective view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0022] FIG. 12A is an exploded partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0023] FIG. 12B is an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0024] FIG. 13A is a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in the unlocked position;

[0025] FIG. 13B is a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in the locked position;

[0026] FIG. 14A is a front side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0027] FIG. 14B is a top side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0028] FIG. 14C is a rear side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0029] FIG. 14D is a bottom side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0030] FIG. 14E is a left side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0031] FIG. 14F is a right side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation;

[0032] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device showing another embodiment of modular weights being added;

[0033] FIG. 16 is a partial view of the adjustable weightlifting device showing the modular weights of FIG. 15 being added;

[0034] FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having yet another embodiment of modular weights;

[0035] FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having a combination of modular weights; [0036] FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having a varying length;

[0037] FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having an alternative modular weight unit;

[0038] FIG. 21A is an exploded partial view of an alternative locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0039] FIG. 21 B is an exploded perspective view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 21A;

[0040] FIG. 22A is a top view of the adjustable weightlifting device;

[0041] FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 22A, taken along line B-B; and

[0042] FIG. 22C is a partial cross-sectional view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 22B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The following provides a weightlifting apparatus that is fully customizable, easy-to- use, and that can be stored easily. Specifically, an adjustable dumbbell or barbell is provided.

[0044] Dumbbells and barbells generally comprise a bar having weighted ends. In a first embodiment, a weightlifting apparatus is provided, as shown in FIG. 1. The apparatus comprises a central bar 100 and weighted portions 106a, 106b located at either end of the central bar 100. The weighted portions 106a, 106b comprise a plurality of channels 101 each having a closed end 104 located towards the central bar 100, and an open end 109 located on either end of the weighted portions 106a, 106b. In this embodiment, the weighted portion 106 comprises six channels 101 for receiving the weighted units 103. It can be appreciated that any number of channels 101 is possible.

[0045] FIG. 2A provides an image showing the modular weights being added to the adjustable weightlifting device. In this embodiment, the modular weights 103 are hexagonal and channels 101 may be contoured in a hexagonal manner to allow the weights 103 to insert easily. It can be appreciated that the weights 103 can be any shape including circular, irregular, polygonal, etc. and the walls 102 of the channels may be contoured around the size of the weight. Specifically, the modular weights are added in the longitudinal direction of the shell unit, parallel to the longitudinal axis. The modular weighted units 103 may also be referred to as longitudinal weights 103.

[0046] There are many advantages to using the longitudinal weights 103 overusing standard flat plates. For instance, it is easier to change the amount of weight loaded on a bar with the longitudinal weighting system, because all the weights are accessible at once, without having to remove other weights first. Flat plates are generally loaded one on top of the other, usually with heaviest weights followed by lighter weights, making significant changes in the weights requires removal of all the weights.

[0047] For instance, if a user wants to adjust their weighted bar from 50 lbs to 25 lbs on one side of the barbell. With a flat plate, the user will probably have a 45 lb plate and a 5 lb plate already on the barbell, they will have to remove both of those, and then put on another 25 lb plate. This adds time to their workout and is more difficult to use than the modular weighting system taught herein. With the longitudinal weights, the user may have two 25 lb modular weights 103, and they can simply remove one weight to get from 50 to 25 lbs.

[0048] Furthermore, this inconvenience is also persistent when storing the flat plates as they are typically stored on peg stands. If a user wants access to a larger flat plate, they have to remove and rearrange all the flat plates stored above it.

[0049] The longitudinally loaded weights 103 are also ergonomically and physically easier to add and remove to the holder and to/from storage than flat plates. Flat plates typically have a fairly tight fit around the bar and therefore, the aperture in the flat plate is not much bigger than the bar itself. This makes putting them on the bar fairly difficult, especially with heavy weights, or if the bar is elevated, or not a convenient height for loading. On the other hand, longitudinally loaded weights easily slide into the weighted portion 106 from all positions.

[0050] Longitudinally loaded weights 103 are ergonomically and physically easier to lift, carry and manipulate compared to flat plates. Flat plates come in all different sizes and varieties. Not all flat plates have hand hold cavities, or are rubberized, or are thicker than others which makes them harder to handle. In contrast, longitudinally loaded weights 103 are preferably all the same shape, regardless of their weight. They are a standardized, modular system. The longitudinal weights 103 are typically easier to pick up, grab, and manipulate, even hold with one hand. [0051] Longitudinally loaded weights 103 are linear and are much easier to store and transport in most mediums. They can be stored lengthwise in rolling bags that have a relatively small footprint. They can be stored lengthwise along the frames of gym equipment along walls, in corners, etc. They are therefore space saving as compared to traditional flat plates.

[0052] Furthermore, longitudinally loaded weights themselves could be converted to kettlebells (i.e by adding a handle portion for sliding the weights 103 into).

[0053] The rail system lends itself to other uses, such as adding ballast weight to a weight rack for stability for example.

[0054] Longitudinally loaded weights 103 preferable have an easier and more secure locking mechanism to hold the weights in place. The locking mechanism is built into the dumbbell. With flat plates, the user needs to add some type of tightening collar to the bar or dumbbell, and those collars are often loose and unreliable. The collars are also easy to lose or misplace. It’s not unusual with heavy weights to have the collar slip significantly during lifting and so safety is also an issue with the traditional flat plate and collar system.

[0055] In another embodiment, the weights 103 and channels 101 may be magnetically fit such that the weights 103 are snapped-in and held in place unless removed consciously by a user. This embodiment may increase the ease-of-use and cost of the adjustable weightlifting device.

[0056] In FIG. 2B, a perspective view of another embodiment of the adjustable weightlifting device showing modular weights being added is shown. In this embodiment, the weights 103 have protruding rails that slide into channels 101 along the contoured walls 102. This ensures a smooth and tight fit.

[0057] Alternatively, the weightlifting apparatus may also comprise a locking mechanism 107. In this embodiment, a rotating cap 110 is used to block the channels 101 such that the weights 103 cannot exit or enter. The cap 110 may be rotated to an unblocked position wherein the caps 110 are located in front of the walls of the channel 102, and the weights 103 can enter or exit. FIGs. 3 and 4 provide views of the adjustable weightlifting device having modular weights 103 attached in all of the channels 101.

[0058] FIGs. 5 and 6 provide views of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation, without any modular weights attached (shell unit). It can be seen that the channels 101 are contoured to fit the modular weight 103 and the modular weight 103 is shaped to fit into the channel 101. In one embodiment, the weights 103 have protruding rails that slide into channels 101 along the contoured walls 102. This ensures a smooth and tight fit.

[0059] FIG. 7A provides a front view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 7B provides a cross-sectional view of the isolated adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 7, taken along line A-A. FIG. 8 provides a transparent view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 9 provides an alternate view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in FIG. 8.

[0060] FIG. 10 provides a partial cross-sectional view of the adjustable weightlifting device. It can be seen that the channels 101 are contoured to fit a modular weight 103 and the modular weight 103 is shaped to fit into the channel 101. It can be appreciated that the shape of the contour 105 can vary as needed. It is important that the edge of the weights 103 have protrusions that fit the channel contour 105. This ensures a smooth and tight fit.

[0061] FIG. 11 A provides a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device. In this embodiment, the weightlifting apparatus comprises a locking mechanism 107 that comprises an actuator 108 and a plurality of caps 110. When the actuator is pressed, the locking mechanism enters an unlocked position such that the caps 110 can be rotated. The caps 110 can rotate between at least two positions: a first blocked position wherein the caps 110 are located in front of the open ends 109 and a second unblocked position wherein the caps 110 are located in front of the walls of the channel 102.

[0062] In the blocked position, the plurality of the caps 110 are located in front of the open ends 109 such that nothing can enter or exit the plurality of channels 101. Once the actuator 108 is pressed, the locking mechanism 107 can be rotated to the unblocked position. In the unblocked position, the plurality of the caps 110 are located in front of the walls of the channel 101 such that modular weight units 103 can enter or exit the plurality of channels 101 , as shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 11 B provides a top perspective view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation.

[0063] FIG. 12A provides a collapsed partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device and FIG. 12B provides a collapsed perspective view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. The actuator 108 can be pushed in to toggle between the blocked and unlocked position. The actuator 108 preferably has an angled face that corresponds with a similar angled face on the lock slider 111. As the actuator 108 is pushed in, the two angled faces slide against each other and the lock slider 111 moves outwards. Alternative views of the locking mechanism are shown in FIGs. 21 A, 21 B, 22A, 22B and 22C. A spring 113 can be used to bias the lock slider 111 in tension such that when the actuator 108 is released, the lock slider 111 moves back in and the actuator 108 returns to the starting position. The lock slider 111 may also comprise two pins which go through holes in the gear plate 112 and lock into holes in the weighted portion 106.

[0064] FIG. 13A provides a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in the unblocked position. In the unblocked position, the plurality of the caps 110 are located in front of the walls 102 of the channel 101 such that modular weight units 103 can enter or exit the plurality of channels 101.

[0065] FIG. 13B provides a partial view of the locking mechanism of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in the blocked position. In the blocked position, the plurality of the caps 110 are located in front of the open ends 109 such that nothing can enter or exit the plurality of channels 101. Once the actuator 108 is pressed, the locking mechanism 107 can be rotated between the blocked and unblocked positions.

[0066] FIG. 14A provides a front side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 14B provides a top side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 14C provides a rear side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 14D provides a bottom side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 14E provides a left side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation. FIG. 14F provides a right side view of the adjustable weightlifting device shown in isolation.

[0067] FIG. 15 provides a perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device showing another embodiment of modular weights being added. In this embodiment, a rail and channel system is shown. Here, the weights 103 have protruding rails 111 that slide into contoured channels 105 on the sides of the dumbbells. The rail 111 may have a leading edge that protrudes from the weight 103 which makes it easy to guide the weight 103 into the channel 101 on the dumbbell. This will also ensure a smooth and tight fit. FIG. 16 provides a partial view of the adjustable weightlifting device showing the modular weights of FIG. 15 being added.

[0068] FIG. 17 provides a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having yet another embodiment of modular weights. In this embodiment, the weighted portion 106 comprises six channels 101 for receiving the weighted units 103. It can be appreciated that any number of channels 101 is possible. Furthermore, the weighted units 103 are modular and can be of any size, mass, or shape. For example, in FIG. 18, a relatively larger weight 103a is shown in one channel while the remaining channels are shown having relatively smaller weights 103. Any combination of modular weights may be possible, such that the adjustable weightlifting device is highly customizability.

[0069] FIG. 19 provides a top perspective view of the adjustable weightlifting device having a varying length. It can be appreciated that any length of central bar 100 is possible. For example, the adjustable weightlifting device may be a dumbbell size or a barbell size.

[0070] Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.

[0071] The terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprised” or “comprising” may be used in the present description. As used herein (including the specification and/or the claims), these terms are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not as precluding the presence of one or more other feature, integer, step, component or a group thereof as would be apparent to persons having ordinary skill in the relevant art. Thus, the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of. When interpreting statements in this specification that include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present but other features can also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

[0072] The term "and/or" can mean "and" or "or".

[0073] Unless stated otherwise herein, the article “a” when used to identify any element is not intended to constitute a limitation of just one and will, instead, be understood to mean “at least one” or “one or more”

Although the above description includes reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any examples provided herein are included solely for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to be limiting in any way. Any drawings provided herein are solely for the purpose of illustrating various aspects of the description and are not intended to be drawn to scale or to be limiting in any way. The scope of the claims appended hereto should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the above description but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the present specification as a whole.