Abstract:
An apparatus for the development of upper body parts and muscles is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base on which is mounted a seat supported above the base and a forearm pad disposed forward of the seat and supported above the base. A pivoted lever is pivoted at a first end to a seat support, a second end of the lever extends past the forearm pad a distance and includes a weight supporting pin which extends vertically upward. A lifting device is selectively and pivotally attached to the pivoted lever forward of the forearm rest. A plurality of weights are selectively attached to the weight support pin to vary the amount of force required to use the lifting device and raise the weights. A variety of attachments are selectively affixed to the lifting device to exercise various body parts and muscles.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates to the field of exercise devices, and more particularly the present invention relates to the field of exercise devices for developing targeted body parts and muscles. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to the field of exercise devices for medical application for objectively measuring the state of development of muscles of the shoulders, upper arms, forearms, wrists and back. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     A search of issued U.S. patents in the field of muscular exercising devices and apparatus reveals U.S. patents related generally to the field of the present invention but which do not anticipate nor disclose the device of the present invention. The discovered U.S. patents relating to the present invention are discussed herein below. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,573,865 to Annas et al. entitled “Weight Shifting Mechanism for Exercising” discloses an exercise device wherein the user pushes against an arcuately movable pedal which is connected through a mechanism to pivot a weighted beam about a fixed fulcrum. A seat is provided against which the user of the device rests while employing the device. This device employs cables and pulleys in its operation. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,858,873 to Jones entitled “Weight Lifting Exercising Devices” discloses an apparatus for development of body parts. The apparatus includes a frame on which is mounted a force applying member against which the user exerts a force for developing body parts and muscles. The device employs a seat for supporting the user, and a system of cables and pulleys is employed to exert force against the force applying member. The force exerted is continuously varied over the full range of rotation of the force applying member. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,285,070 to McDonough entitled “Muscular Evaluation and Exercising Apparatus” discloses an exercise apparatus employing a hinged weighted arm affixed to one end of a table or support. Resistance against motion is provided by a clutch which is adjustable to vary the amount of resistance imposed. 
     None of the above listed U.S. patents disclose nor anticipate an exercise device comprising a base with a seat supported above the base, a forearm pad disposed forward of the seat and supported above the base, a pivoted lever pivoted at a first end to a seat support and including a second end extending past the forearm pad a distance, a weight supporting pin extending vertically upward from the lever second end, an attachment post pivotally attached to the pivoted lever forward of the forearm rest, a lifting means selectively attached to the lifting post, and a plurality of weights selectively attached to the weight support pin to vary the amount of force required to raise the lifting means. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,266,766 to Calderone entitled “Exercise Device” discloses an apparatus for the development of upper body parts and muscles. The apparatus includes a base on which is mounted a seat supported above the base and a forearm pad disposed forward of the seat and supported above the base. A pivoted lever is pivoted at a first end to a seat support, a second end of the lever extends past the forearm pad a distance and includes a weight supporting pin which extends vertically upward. A lifting device is selectively and pivotally attached to the pivoted lever forward of the forearm rest. A plurality of weights are selectively attached to the weight support pin to vary the amount of force required to use the lifting device and raise the weights. A variety of attachments are selectively affixed to the lifting device to exercise various body parts and muscles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,195 to Calderone entitled “Exercise Device” discloses an apparatus for the development of upper body parts and muscles. The apparatus includes a base on which is mounted a seat supported above the base with an adjustable forearm pad which is adjustably disposed forward of the seat and supported above the base by an adjustable forearm pad support. A pivoted lever is pivoted at a first end adjacent the seat, a second end of the lever extends past the forearm pad a distance and includes a weight supporting pin which extends vertically upward. A lifting device is selectively and pivotally attached to the pivoted lever, including mechanisms for adjusting the height and the forward or rearward position of the lifting device along the pivoted lever. A plurality of weights are selectively attached to the weight support pin to vary the amount of force required to use the lifting device and raise the weights. A variety of attachments are selectively affixed to the pivoted lever to exercise various body parts and muscles. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,462 to Calderone entitled “Exercise Apparatus” discloses an arrangement wherein two attachments are provided for an exercise apparatus of the type having a lever arm with an end pivotally connected to a base and a free end adapted to receive weights. A tower attachment provides a flexible tensile member connected at an end of the lever arm, with intermediate portions borne across elevated pulleys, and connectable at another end to various handles, by which a user can perform various pull-down and rowing exercises. A shoulder bar attachment has an elongated body connected at one end to the lever arm and having another end which accommodates the user&#39;s head and shoulders and which is provided with handles, allowing a user to perform various press and leg raise exercises. 
     U.S. Design Pat. No. D347,041 to Calderone entitled “Handle Assembly for a Physical Exerciser” describes an ornamental design for a handle assembly for a physical exerciser, such as the physical exercise apparatus described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,462. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,266,766, 4,923,195, 5,358,462 and D347,041 described herein are commonly owned, with the present application, by Michael P. Calderone. The specifications, drawings, abstracts and claims of U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,266,766, 4,923,195, 5,358,462 and D347,041 are incorporated herein by reference to include their respective teachings. 
     The aforesaid apparatus are typically intended for and can be advantageously applied in traditional home and commercial gym settings wherein the intended user is in average or superior physical condition. They can be, however, of limited value in situations wherein the user is infirm, suffers from severe or chronic injuries, physical limitations, or is undertaking a medically supervised course of physical therapy. It therefore has long been desired to provide exercise devices suitable for developing or restoring targeted body parts and muscles as part of a medical or physical therapy regimen. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide an exercise device for exercising and developing specifically targeted body parts and muscles. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide a device for exercising upper body parts and muscles wherein the force required to operate the device can be varied by varying the amount of weight attached to the device. 
     It is another object of the present invention to provide an exercise device including a user manipulated counterbalanced elongate beam which enables independent variation of the degree beam imbalance about a center pivot by placement of free weights at each end of the beam, and independent variation of the overall mass of the beam by varying the aggregate number of free weights. 
     According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the exercise device for therapeutic development of targeted user musculature include a base, a seat supported above the base by a vertically extending structure, a forearm pad adjustably disposed forward of the seat and supported above the base by an adjustable forearm pad support, an adjustably counterbalanced elongate beam assembly having a fore end portion extending forwardly of said seat, an aft end portion extending rearwardly of said seat, and a pivot interconnecting said beam assembly to said vertical seat structure while enabling rotational freedom of said beam assembly between first and second limits of travel, and lifting means pivotally attached to the fore end portion forward of said forearm pad. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, a second, infinitely adjustable weight assembly is carried on one or both end portions of the beam assembly. This arrangement enables precise selection of the beam&#39;s weight imbalance. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the adjustable weight assembly includes an elongated guide member extending generally parallel to an axis of said elongate beam and a dedicated weight carried with said guide member for incremental axial adjustment there-along, and wherein said free weight support pin and said adjustable weight assembly are generally axially equidistant from said pivot. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the free weights are incrementally sized between a minimum weight of X Kg. and a maximum weight of Y Kg., wherein said dedicated weight weighs approximately 0.5X Kg. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, a dynamic tension device operative to resist rotational displacement of said counterbalanced beam assembly between said limits of travel. The dynamic tension device includes a fixed caliper operable to selectively engage opposed lateral surfaces of said counterbalanced beam assembly, 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the aft end portion of the elongate beam forms a semi-circular member depending from said fore end portion adjacent said pivot, wherein the semi-circular member has a substantially constant radius coaxially centered with said pivot. The semi-circular member extends rearwardly through a registering slot formed in said seat support structure, and carries a semi-circular scale registering with a fixed indicator carried by said seat support structure to provide an angular position indication to an attendant clinician. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, the semi-circular member carries an intermediate stop operative selectively vary the first and/or second limit of travel. 
     These and other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent upon reading the following specification, which, along with the drawings, describes preferred and alternative embodiments of the invention in detail. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1 , is a perspective view of a muscular evaluation and exercise device embodying the present invention; 
         FIG. 2 , is a simplified block diagram of a system controller and sensors incorporated within the muscular evaluation and exercise device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3 , is an exploded plan view, on an enlarged scale, of the aft end portion of a counterbalanced elongate beam employed in the muscular evaluation and exercise device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3   a , is a cross-sectional view, on a further enlarged scale, taken on lines  3   a - 3   a  of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 4 , is a side plan view of an alternative embodiment of a patient lifting device applicable with the muscular evaluation and exercise device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5 , is a top plan view of the seat employed in the muscular evaluation and exercise device of  FIG. 1 ; and 
         FIG. 6 , is a plan view, on an enlarged scale, of the tensioner mechanism employed within the seat vertically extending structure of the muscular evaluation and exercise device of  FIG. 1 , as viewed longitudinally from the rear, the tensioner mechanism including adjustable rollers operative to control speed and smooth transition of motion/movement of the counterbalanced elongate beam. 
     
    
    
     Although the drawings represent embodiments of the present invention, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to illustrate and explain the present invention. The exemplification set forth herein illustrates an embodiment of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a preferred embodiment of a muscular evaluation and exercise device  10  is illustrated. The exercise device  10  comprises a base assembly  12  of welded construction including a generally rectangular base plate  14 , two longitudinally extending side members  16  and two laterally extending end members  18 . The side and end members  16  and  18 , respectively, serve to rigidify the base plate  14  and to elevate the base plate  14  above the floor (not illustrated) upon which it rests in application. The side and end members  16  and  18 , respectively, are dimensioned and arranged to frame the perimeter of the base plate  14 . The base plate  14  is preferably formed from slip-resistant material such as diamond steel plate. The side and end members  16  and  18 , respectively, are preferably formed from square section steel tube. 
     In use, the exercise device  10  rests on a flat floor surface, and is prevented from inadvertent sliding movement thereon by resilient pads  20  mounted on the lowermost surfaces of the side and end members  16  and  18 , respectively, to dampen vibration and momentary shock loads, and to adapt for minor irregularities in the floor surface. Relocation of the exercise device  10  is achieved by a pair of laterally spaced caster wheels  22  mounted to associated longitudinal frame extensions  24  affixed to one of the end members  18 . A hand grip member  26  is affixed to the opposed end member  18 . Relocation of the exercise device  10  is accomplished by grasping the hand grip member  26 , pivotally raising the exercise device  10  about the rolling axis of the caster wheels  22 , and manually relocation the exercise device  10  in dolly-fashion to a new location. Pivotally raising the exercise device  10  momentarily lifts and disengages the resilient pads  20  from the floor. 
     An exercise device assembly  28  is rigidly affixed upon the upper surface of the base assembly  12 . The exercise device assembly  28  includes a longitudinally extending member  30  terminating at a rear or aft end thereof adjacent a laterally extending cross-member  32 . Longitudinally extending member  30  is permanently joined at the midpoint of laterally extending cross-member  32  such as by welding. The generally “T” configured longitudinally extending member  30  and laterally extending cross-member  32  are then rigidly affixed to the base plate  14  by bolts, weldments or the like. 
     A seat support structure  34  composed of square section steel tube is attached to the longitudinally extending member  30  at a location spaced forward of the laterally extending cross-member  32 , and extends vertically upward therefrom. The seat support structure  34  is affixed to the longitudinally extending member  30  by welding, fasteners, or other suitable means. A pad support  36  comprising a rigid planar member deployed in a horizontal plane is affixed atop the seat support structure  34  by welding or other suitable means. A bracket  38  extends at an angle between the pad support  36  and the seat support structure  34  to add stability to the pad support  36 . A padded seat  40  overlays the pad support  36  to render comfort to a person sitting thereon. 
     The exercise device assembly  28  includes a rigid elongate beam  42  disposed in a laterally centered orientation above the longitudinally extending member  30 . The elongate beam  42  is preferably formed of tubular steel having a nominal rectangular cross-section. The rearmost end of the elongate beam  42  is pivotally interconnected to an upper portion of the seat support structure  34  for limited rotation with respect thereto. A “U” shaped bracket  44 , forming a laterally opposed pair of legs  46  is permanently affixed to the upper portion of the seat support structure  34  by welding or other suitable means proximate the pad support  36 , with the legs  46  extending in the forward direction. A pair of aligned apertures  48  pass transversely through the legs  46  of the “U” shaped bracket  44 . A laterally transverse aperture (not illustrated) is formed in the elongated beam  42  adjacent the rear end thereof. In assembly, the elongate beam aperture is concentrically aligned with the bracket apertures  48 . A pivot pin  50  is interference fit within bracket apertures  48  and slidingly extends through the intermediate beam transverse aperture to permit limited free relative rotation there between. This structure is collectively deemed a pivot assembly  52 . If a more robust structure is desired, such as for medical therapeutic applications, appropriate bushings or bearings (sleeve or roller type) can be applied in the pivot assembly  52  without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
     The elongate beam  42  extends forwardly from the pivot assembly  52  defining a “hockey stick” shape including an elongate “handle” portion  54  terminating in a “blade” portion  56 . A plurality of axially spaced, transversely extending apertures  58  are formed in the “handle” portion  54  of the elongate beam  42 . The “blade” portion  56  extends forwardly and downwardly at an acute offset angle from the axis of the “handle” portion  54 . A pivot stop  60  extends vertically upwardly from the forward end of the longitudinally extending member  30  to support the forward most end of the “blade” portion  56  and define a first or down stop for the elongate beam  42 . A weight support pin  62 , preferably formed of 1 inch diameter steel bar stock, is affixed to the “blade” portion  56  and extends generally upwardly (at all possible angular orientations of the elongated beam  42 ) to selectively support one or more free weights or barbell plates  64 . A central aperture of each free weight  64  is slid over the pin  62  to retain the weights  64  in their illustrated positions. As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the elongated beam  42  is in a first or lowermost limit of rotational travel. The elongated beam  42  second or uppermost limit of travel (not illustrated) is approximately 90 degrees counter-clockwise from the orientation illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
     An infinitely adjustable weight assembly  66  is carried with the elongated beam  42 , and preferably with the “blade” portion  56  thereof. The adjustable weight assembly  66  consists of a tubular weight  68  threadably carried with an elongated threaded shaft  70  fixedly supported at both ends thereof by extensions  72  and  74  integrally formed with and depend from the “blade” portion  56 . The threaded shaft  70  is preferably disposed with its axis of elongation arranged parallel with and offset from the axis of elongation of the “blade” portion  56 . The weight  68  can be manually adjusted to effect fine, incremental bidirectional adjustment along the axis defined by the threaded shaft  70  as indicated by arrow  76 . Thus, the infinitely adjustable weight assembly  66  provides a finely controllable balance adjustment feature wherein the moment arm (fixed weight×variable distance) is variable. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 3 , a generally arcuately shaped counterweight beam assembly  78  is rigidly affixed to the end of the elongate beam  42  adjacent the pivot assembly  52  and extends rearwardly therefrom through a “T” shaped longitudinal opening  80  formed in the seat support structure  34 . The counterweight beam assembly  78  is preferably formed of heavy gauge steel having a base or root portion  82  affixed to a lower surface of the elongate beam  42  such as by welding, and a rearwardly directed arcuate aft portion  84  extending through and rearwardly beyond the seat support structure  34 . The arcuate aft portion  84  is formed in a substantially fixed radius, designated by arrow R, about the axis of rotation A defined by the pivot assembly  52 , and extends through an approximately 90 degree sector. 
     The rearward most cantilevered part of the arcuate end portion  84  supports a rear weight support pin  86  which extends upwardly therefrom in all possible relative angular positions of the combined elongate beam  42  and counterweight rear beam assembly  78 , thereby ensuring retention of counterbalancing free weights or barbell plates  88  carried thereby. As best illustrated in  FIG. 3   a , the upper surface of the arcuate end portion  84  defines a laterally enlarged “T” shaped flange  90  extending there along. In addition to providing rigidity to the cantilevered portion of the arcuate end portion  84 , the “T” shaped flange  90  defines a guideway for an adjustable supplemental down stop  92  and an up stop  94 . A generally triangularly shaped central area  96  is formed in the base portion  82  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity. Advertising or instructional indicia  98  is affixed within the recessed triangular central area  96 . 
     Definitionally, the elongate beam  42 , the weight support pin  62 , the infinitely adjustable weight assembly  66 , the counterweight beam assembly  78 , the supplemental down stop  92 , the up stop  94  and the rear weight support pin  86 , as well as free weights  64  and  88  carried on the support pins  62  and  86 , respectively, are deemed to constitute an “adjustably counterbalanced elongate beam assembly”  100 . In application, all of the components comprising the adjustably counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  96  rotate in unison about the axis defined by the pivot assembly  52  through a range of motion delimited in the clockwise sense by either the pivot stop  60  or the supplemental down stop  92 , and in the counter-clockwise sense by the up stop  94 . 
     The adjustably counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  100  is configured, weighted and dimensioned to ensure that the product of the aggregate center of mass all of the elements thereof forward of the axis of rotation of the pivot assembly  52  (defined as CMf) times the longitudinal distance there between (defined as Df) equals or exceeds the product of the aggregate center of mass all of the elements thereof rearward of the axis of rotation of the pivot assembly  52  (defined as CMr) times the longitudinal distance there between (defined as Dr). Restated, the two opposed moment arms are nearly equal. This relationship can be described as:
 
 CMf×Df≧CMr×Dr  
 
     The forgoing relationship is varied by selectively placing differing amounts of free weights on the front and rear weight support pins  62  and  86 , respectively. Free weights are typically sized incrementally in steps, such as 2½ lbs., 5 lbs., 10 lbs., 20 lbs., 50 lbs., and the like. The degree of weight imbalance between the front and rear moment arms of the beam assembly  100  is substantially determined by the offsetting aggregate stack-up of weights at the front and rear support pins  62  and  86 , respectively. In therapeutic applications, it often desirable to reduce the imbalance to an amount less than the smallest free weight (ex. 2½ lbs.). In the present invention, the dedicated weight  68  is precisely repositionable in increments effecting a substantially smaller than 2½ lbs. adjustments. Given the potential axial displacement of the tubular weight  68  along the adjustment shaft  70 , the applicant believes that a tubular weight of less than 1 lb. can provide the desired adjustability. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 3   a , the structural details and functionality of the supplemental down stop  92  and up stop  94  are illustrated in application with the counterweight beam assembly  78 .  FIG. 3   a  illustrates the up stop  94  which is functionally and structurally similar to the supplemental down stop  92 . The up stop  94  has a rigid base member  102  having a longitudinally extending “T” shaped passage  104  opening through the bottom  106  thereof. The “T” shaped through passage  104  is dimensioned to slidingly engage the flange  90  of the arcuate portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  to enable selective positioning thereof as indicated by arrow  108 . The flange  90  has a plurality of longitudinally aligned spaced through holes  110  formed therein. When locked into position, the base member  102  of each stop  92  and  94  serves as an abutment surface against the exposed outer surface of the seat support structure  34  to establish a limit of travel of the elongate beam assembly  100 . An indicator line  109  is positioned on the lateral exterior surfaces  111  of the base members  102  of each down stop  92 ,  94 , which registers with a range of motion indicator scale  113  positioned on the lateral exterior surfaces  115  of the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  to provide a visual indication of the stop settings vis-à-vis the associated angular position of the beam assembly  100  at its selected end limits of travel. 
     The base member  102  has a through passage  112  communicating the top surface  114  of the member  102  with the “T” shaped passage  104 . A plunger pin  116  extends through the passage  112 . A compression spring  118  is disposed concentrically with the plunger pin  116  to continuously simultaneously bear downwardly on a flange member  120  carried with the plunger pin  116  and upwardly against a fixed step  122  formed in the through passage  112 . The flange member  120  is fixedly disposed within a radially outwardly opening annular groove  121  formed within the lower end portion of the plunger pin  116 . Thus, the plunger pin  116  is continuously urged downwardly and, when aligned with one of said through holes  110  will self engage with the flange  90 . The opposed end of the plunger pin  116  extends upwardly above the top surface  114  of the base member  102 , and is affixed to a manually operable control knob  124 . A resilient pad  126  is disposed on the top surface  114  to provide cushioned support of the control knob  124 . The stops  92  and  94  are repositioned simply by grasping the control knob  124  and pulling it upwardly as indicated by arrow  128 . Thereafter, the stop  92 ,  94  is manually repositioned along the flange  90  until assuming a new desired position wherein the plunger pin  116  registers with the new desired flange through hole  110 . Finally, the knob  124  is released, and the compression spring  118  forces the plunger pin  116  into the newly selected flange through hole  110 . 
     Inertial characteristics of the adjustable counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  100  can be selected by staged offsetting loading of the fore and aft end portions while maintaining a fixed balance condition. Referring to  FIG. 6 , a dynamic tension device  130  can also be added to resist patient induced movement and acceleration of an otherwise counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  100 . 
     The dynamic tension device  130  comprises a scissors-like apparatus including first and second substantially mirror image elongated levers  132  and  134 , respectively, pivotally joined for relative rotation about an axle  136 . Lever  132  has an upper leg portion  138  defining a laterally oriented threaded through bore  140  and a lower leg portion  142  carrying a resilient roller  144  for relative rotation. Similarly, lever  134  has an upper leg portion  146  defining a laterally oriented smooth walled through bore  148  and a lower leg portion  150  carrying a resilient roller  1152  for relative rotation. 
     The dynamic tension device  130  is preferably located within the seat support structure  34  adjacent the longitudinal opening  80  and the “T” shaped flange  90  of the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  extending there through. The rollers  144  and  152  cooperatively face one another with the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  passing there between (into and out of the plane of the drawing sheet carrying  FIG. 6 ). An operator control knob  154  mounted externally of the seat support structure  34  is affixed with a control shaft  156  extending inwardly through an opening  158 . The control shaft  156  defines left and right axially spaced apart annular flanges  160  and  162 , respectively, and a reduced diameter intermediate bearing surface  164 . The through bore  148  of the upper leg portion  146  is captured between the annular flanges  160  and  162 . Thus, the control shaft  156  is free to rotate relative to the upper leg portion  146  but is axially fixed with respect thereto. The control shaft  156  also defines a threaded end portion  166  which, in assembly, is threadably engaged within threaded through bore  140 . 
     The dynamic tension device  130  is operated by manual rotation of the operator control knob  154  as illustrated by arrow  168 . Insodoing, the control shaft  156  rotates within through bore  148  maintaining their relative axial juxtaposition. Simultaneously, threaded shaft portion  166  rotates within threaded bore  140 , thereby axially displacing the upper leg portion  138  leftwardly or rightwardly, as illustrated by arrow  170  as a function of the direction of rotation of the control knob  154 . This translates into a pinching motion illustrated by arrows  171 . When the tension device  130  is disengaged, the rollers  144  and  152  are spaced from the side walls of the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78 . When the tension device  130  is engaged, the rollers  144  and  152  are increasingly drawn into engagement with the side walls of the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  as illustrated by arrows  170 . The increased engagement creates increased rolling friction, thereby smoothing transition of movement/motion and introducing a small amount of resistance of patient induced displacement of the entire counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , the muscular evaluation and exercise device  10  includes an adjustable forearm rest mechanism  172  supported on the base assembly  12 . A forearm pad  174  is adjustably disposed forward of the seat  40  and is supported above the longitudinal member  30  by an adjustable forearm pad support mechanism generally designated  176 . The adjustable forearm pad support mechanism  176  includes a second laterally extending cross member  178  arranged transversely to the longitudinal member  30  beneath the forearm pad  174  and a pair of opposed vertical supports  180 ,  182  extending upward from the ends of the second cross member  178  to the forearm pad  174 . The adjustable forearm pad support mechanism  176  is also of welded construction made from square cross-section tubing. The second cross member  178  has disposed in its center upward surface a notch  184  adapted to receive longitudinal member  30 . A pair of threaded apertures (not illustrated) are located adjacent each side of the notch  184 . The adjustable forearm pad support  11  further comprises a flat, plate-like member  186 , with a pair of apertures  188 ,  190  formed therein and configured to be aligned with the pair of threaded apertures in the cross member  178 . A pair of large-headed hand adjustment knobs  192 ,  194  are provided to clampingly secure member  186  to the cross member  178 . In use, the second cross member  178  is placed under and at right angles to the longitudinal member  30  in such a manner that longitudinal member  30  is received by the notch  184 . The plate-like member  186  is placed on top of and parallel to second cross member  178 , the assembly thereof containing longitudinal member  30 . The threaded apertures (not shown) located proximate each side of notch  184  are aligned with apertures  188 ,  190  formed in the plate-like member  186 , and threaded fasteners  192 ,  194  are threaded through apertures  188 ,  190  and threadably engaged with the threaded apertures. The position of the forearm pad  174  along the axis of longitudinal member  30  is adjusted to a selected position forward or rearward. Threaded fasteners  192  and  194  are turned by hand until plate-like member  186  is forced down against second cross member  178  so to fix forearm pad support  176  to longitudinal member  30  at the selected position to define a means for adjusting the longitudinal position of the forearm pad. 
     The lowermost portions of the vertical supports  180 ,  182  form longitudinally elongated guide flanges  196  and  198 , respectively, disposed for sliding engagement with the upper surface of the base plate  14  whenever the forearm pad support mechanism  176  is repositioned. The guide flanges  196  and  198  serve to limit front to rear rocking of the forearm pad support mechanism  176  when subjected to patient loading. Furthermore, the lowermost portions of the vertical supports  180 ,  182  form longitudinally elongated guide members (not illustrated) extending downwardly therefrom into longitudinally oriented guideway slots  200  and  202 . The guide members ride in the guideway slots  200  and  202  to limit the range of longitudinal adjustability of the forearm pad support mechanism  176 , and prevent patient induced lateral displacement or rotation (when viewed from above). 
     A pair of opposed vertical sleeves  204  and  206  are telescopingly engaged over the vertical supports  180  and  182 , respectively, and a forearm pad support tube  208  disposed in a horizontal plane extends between the opposed vertical sleeves  204  and  206  and is joined thereto by welding or other suitable means. Attached to the undersurface of the forearm pad  174  is a bracket  210  comprising a flat cross-piece  212  and a plurality of arms  214 ,  216  and  218  extending perpendicularly there from. Arms  214 ,  216  and  218  each have an aperture  220 ,  222  and  224  formed therein proximate the end opposite the flat cross piece  212 . Apertures  220 ,  222  and  224  are adapted to slidingly engage forearm pad support tube  208 . A lock pin  226  is supported from the cross piece  212 . The lock pin  226  passes through an aperture in arm  216  and engages one of the apertures  228  in a plate  230  fixed to support tube  208  to selectively fix the forearm pad  174  to the forearm pad support tube  208  at a pre-selected position to define a means for adjusting the radial position of the forearm pad  174 . The vertical sleeves  204  and  206  are formed of steel tube with nylon liners to provide smooth telescoping movement in cooperation with vertical supports  180  and  182 . 
     A pair of aligned apertures  232  and  234  pass transversely through the vertical sleeves  204  and  206 , respectively, and are manually aligned with a pair of mating apertures  236  and  238  selected from a plurality of spaced aligned apertures  236  and  238  which pass transversely through the pair of opposed vertical supports  180  and  182 , respectively. A pair of quick-release, self-engaging pins  240  and  242  slidingly engage the aligned apertures  232  and  234  as well as  236  and  238 , respectively, to selectively position the forearm pad  174  at a desired height and define a means for adjusting the height of the forearm pad  174 . Resilient bumper stops  244  and  246  are provided on the bottom surface of the sleeves  204  and  206  to mitigate shock loading whenever the sleeves  204  and  206  are displaced to their lowest position and contact their respective guide flanges  196  and  198 , respectively. 
     Lifting means, in the form of a lever assembly  248 , is pivotally attached to said adjustability counterbalanced elongate beam assembly  100  in a mounting position forward of said forearm pad  174  and extending upwardly from said beam assembly  100 . The lever assembly  248  comprises an elongate beam  250  which is bifurcated at one end to form two elongated, parallel flanges  252  and  254  which, in application, straddle the elongate beam assembly  100 . A longitudinally elongated handlebar assembly  256  is affixed to an opposite end of the elongate beam  250 . A plurality of axially spaced apart pairs of aligned apertures  258  are formed in flanges  252  and  254 . The bifurcated end portion of the lever assembly  248  is selectively affixed to the beam assembly  100  by a quick release pin  260  extending through a pair of apertures  258  and an aperture  58  in the elongate beam assembly  100 . Selecting different aperture pairs  258  in the flanges  252  and  254  varies the effective length of the lever assembly  248 . Selecting different apertures  58  in the elongate beam assembly  100  varies the longitudinal positioning of the lever assembly  248 . 
     Quick release pins  240 ,  242  and  260  are preferably of the push-pull or positive locking types. Push-pull type pins are typically made with a solid or hollow shank containing a detent assembly in the form of a locking lug, button or ball which is backed up by a resilient core, spring or plug, and employed to fasten parts under shear loading. Ideally, the load direction is at right angles to the shank of the pin. Locking mechanisms are designed to provide secure retention against accidental disassembly and assembly. 
     Positive-locking pins that is usually independent of insertion and removal forces. These pins are also primarily suited for shear-load applications, although some tension loading can be tolerated without affecting pin function. Single-acting pins have locking action controlled by a plunger-actuated locking mechanism. In the locked position, the locking element projects beyond the surface of the pin shank to provide a positive lock. When the plunger is mover by means of a button or lever assembly at one end of the pin, the locking element retracts. A number of head styles and release mechanisms have been developed for these pins. 
     An example of such pins suitable for use with the present invention are quick release pins produced by Monroe quick release pins manufactured by Monroe PMP of Auburn Hills Mich., which are available in a variety of different styles and sizes to suit this intended application. Monroe offers styles including T-handle, L-handle, Button-handle and Ring-handle versions, and with different handle and button finishes as well as lanyards. 
     A pair of longitudinally rearwardly hand grips  262  and  264  are rigidly mounted to an upper portion of the sleeves  204  and  205 , respectively, to assist the patient in mounting and dismounting the exercise device  10 , as well as to assist in vertically repositioning the forearm pad  174 . 
     The straight handlebar  256  illustrated in  FIG. 1  is known as a “wrist curl” type grip. Referring to  FIG. 4 , an alternative axially offset lever assembly  266  is illustrated, comprising an elongated beam  268  which is bifurcated at one end to form parallel flanges  270  and  272 , and bifurcated at the opposite end to form a second set of parallel flanges  274  and  276 . Flanges  270  and  272  are affixed to the elongate beam assembly  100  as described herein above. Flanges  274  and  276  are interconnected to the center portion  278  of a “bicycle type” grip through a rubber isolator  281  with a bronze bushing  282 . The laterally opposed ends of the hand grip  280  are axially aligned (on axis “X”) and include resilient grip members  284  and  286 . The hand grip  280  is shaped such that the center portion of the grip  278  is on a lateral axis “Y” which is parallel to axis “X”. In application, the entire grip  280  free to rotate about axis “Y” as illustrated by arrow  288 . Simultaneously, the lever assembly  266  is free to rotate about an axis (not illustrated) formed by a quick release pin interconnecting the opposed flanges  270  and  272  to the elongate beam assembly  100  through a selected aperture  58 . The resulting hybrid path of motion of the hands and upper arms of a patent employing the exercise device  10  is believed to provide significant therapeutic advantages. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , a top view of the padded seat  40  illustrates a shaped longitudinally rearwardly extending recess  290  formed in the front edge  292  thereof. This feature enables an expanded range of operation of the exercise device  10  wherein the forearm pad support mechanism  172  can be located longitudinally rearwardly to a point approaching the seat support structure  34 . This maximizes the upward freedom of travel of the elongate beam assembly  100  without interfering with the padded seat  40 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the muscular evaluation and exercise device  10  embodying the present invention can be employed for routine home-based exercise. However, it is primarily intended for therapeutic applications in clinical settings. Exercise sessions as part of a therapy regimen require precise control of the patient&#39;s range of motion and the level of muscular exertion, as well as data record gathering, retention, processing and display for use by the clinician. Accordingly, the exercise device  10  can be instrumented with a suite of sensors and actuators which are interfaced with a dedicated data processor  294  through an umbilical connection  296 . 
     Data processor  294  includes a controller circuit  298  interfaced with a central processor unit (CPU)  300 , a non-volatile memory device  302 , and clinician and/or user accessible inputs  304  and readouts  306  in analog or digital form. Furthermore, the data processor  294  receives a plurality of inputs from various sensors and actuators embedded within the muscular evaluation and exercise device  10 . 
     The aggregate or cumulative weight of free weights  64  carried on weight support pin  62  can be measured by a weight sensor  308  disposed at the base of the support pin  62  and interconnected with the data processor  294  through a data or signal feed line  310 . The weight sensor  308  can, by way of example comprise a pressure sensitive element such as a variable resistance pad or a fluid filled bladder located on the upper surface of the blade portion  56  of the elongate beam  42  upon which the stack of free weights  64  rests. The weight sensor  308  provides a continuous signal to the data processor  294  indicating the instantaneous weight borne on the front end portion of the elongate beam  42 . 
     Similarly, the aggregate or cumulative weight of free weights  88  carried on weight support pin  86  can be measured by a weight sensor  312  disposed at the base of the support pin  86  and interconnected with the data processor  294  through a data or signal feed line  314 . The weight sensor  312  can, by way of example comprise a pressure sensitive element such as a variable resistance pad or a fluid filled bladder located on the upper surface of the arcuate aft portion  84  of the counterweight beam assembly  78  upon which the stack of free weights  88  rests. The weight sensor  312  provides a continuous signal to the data processor  294  indicating the instantaneous weight borne on the rear end portion of the elongate beam  42 . 
     The position of the tubular weight  68  along the axis of threaded shaft  70  can be monitored by a linear position sensor  316  such as a non-contacting type including a permanent magnet embedded within the tubular weight  68  for axial movement therewith, and a stationary linear Hall-effect device mounted on the blade portion  56  intermediate extensions  72  and  74 . The linear position sensor  316  is and interconnected with the data processor  294  through a data or signal feed line  318 . 
     With the three above-described data or signal inputs, the data processor  294  can calculate the positive moment arm provided by the fore end portion of the elongate beam  42 , including fixed weights  64 , forward of the rotational axis of the pivot assembly  52 , the offsetting negative moment arm provided by the aft end portion of the elongate beam  42 , including fixed weights  88 , rearward of the rotational axis of the pivot assembly  52 , and the incremental positive moment arm provided by the adjustable weight assembly  66 . The controller  298  of the data processor  294  can then logically sum the three moment arm inputs and provide an aggregate summation thereof, as well as a determination of the total mass of the elongate beam assembly  100 . 
     Rotary position sensors frequently employ a magnetic field and a galvanomagnetic sensing element, such as a Hall affect device or a magnetoresistor located within the magnetic field. To detect relative rotational movement between a first article (such as the rotatable elongate beam  42 ) and a second article (such as the stationary seat support structure  34 ), the magnetic field is oriented transverse in relation to the axis of rotation of the first article, and the galvanomagnetic sensing element is located inside the magnetic field. The member providing the magnetic field is connected to one of the articles, and the galvanomagnetic sensing element is connected to the other article. As the articles rotate relative to each other, the galvanomagnetic sensing element is caused to change its angular position relative to the magnetic field direction, resulting in a change of output signal from the galvanomagnetic sensing element responsive to its angle with respect to the magnetic field direction. This change in signal is indicative of the angular position as between the first and second articles. 
     An angular beam position sensor  320  is integrally formed within the pivot assembly  52  to bi-directionally sense user induced angular displacement of the elongate beam assembly  100 . A signal feed line  322  provides output data to the data processor  294 , which calculates directionality, user applied torsion, (de)acceleration, instantaneous position of the elongate beam  42 . A related range of motion sensor  321  is configured to measure movement of the operator, measured in degrees. A signal feed line  323  provides output data to the data processor  294 . 
     A combined tension/compression and angular position sensor  324  is integrated within the quick release pin  260  securing the user lifting lever  248  to the elongate beam  42 , to output signals to the data processor  294  via a signal feed line  326 . This provides a direct objective measure of instantaneous operator effort in displacing the elongate beam assembly between its end limits of travel. 
     A beam cycle repetition counter/timer  328  counts cycles and times the operator workout duration for recording and processing by the data processor  294  via a signal feed line  330 . 
     A forearm pad vertical position sensor  332  and a forearm pad longitudinal position sensor  334 , interconnected with the data processor  294  via separate data feed lines  336  and  338 , respectively, provide user physiological data to the processor  294  and ensures continuity and consistency between workout sessions. 
     A pressure sensitive element  340  such as a variable resistance pad or a fluid filled bladder is incorporated within the padded seat  40  to monitor the weight of the operator and to provide related data to the data processor  294  via a signal feed line  342   
     There has been described herein above an exercise device for selectively developing the muscles of the user&#39;s upper body including the user&#39;s arms, back, wrists and shoulders. The device provides adjustment of the height of the forearm pad support and the lifting means, in the forward or rearward position of the forearm pad, forearm pad support and the lifting means, and in the radial position of the forearm pad. 
     It is to be understood that the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments and variations to provide the features and advantages previously described and that the embodiments are susceptible of modification as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. 
     Furthermore, it is contemplated that many alternative, common inexpensive materials can be employed to construct the basis constituent components. Accordingly, the forgoing is not to be construed in a limiting sense. 
     The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is to be understood that the terminology, which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. 
     Obviously, many modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, the infinitely adjustable weight assembly  66 , or a similar device(s) can be carried on the handle portion  54  to ensure displacement of tubular weight  68  through an axis extending through pivot assembly  52 . Additionally, a range of motion indicator scale, similar to scale  113 , can be carried on a side wall portion of the elongate beam  42  adjacent the adjustable weight to ensure repeatable precise positioning of the tubular weight. It is, therefore, to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, wherein reference numerals are merely for illustrative purposes and convenience and are not in any way limiting, the invention, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the Doctrine of Equivalents, may be practiced otherwise than is specifically described.