Patent Publication Number: US-11040240-B1

Title: Exercise device for neck and upper body

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/099,920, filed Apr. 15, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/212,949, filed Sep. 1, 2015. 
    
    
     The following is a tabulation of some prior art that presently appears relevant: 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 U.S. Patents 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Pat. No. 
                 Kind Code 
                 Issue Date 
                 Patentee 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 US 2003/0148863 
                 A1 
                 Aug. 7, 2003 
                 Thomas 
               
               
                 U.S. Pat. No. 4,893,808 
                 B2 
                 Jan. 16, 1990 
                 McIntyre et al. 
               
               
                 U.S. Pat. No. 8,876,665 
                   
                 Nov. 4, 2014 
                 Isom 
               
               
                 US 2010/0292051 
                 A1 
                 Nov. 18, 2010 
                 Benumof 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
            
               
                 Non Patent Literature Documents 
               
               
                 None 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     BACKGROUND 
     Prior Art for Disbursement Apparatus 
     Sports are common activities of our past time from eons ago. It is greatly intensified when it has now matured into commercial entities where fame, power, and money are at stake. Many of our sports involve physical contact or sudden maneuvers, that can cause systemic and also catastrophic injuries to the athlete. One of the most common but under-addressed injury is to the neck and its surrounding region. And one of the most common neck injuries happens when a person&#39;s body comes to a sudden stop, causing the still-moving head to rely on neck resistance to bring it to full but later rest. This type of injury is aggravated further when two bodies collide. Another more common form is helmeted sports such as Football, where impact to the helmeted head causes tremendous neck stress and unnatural displacement/orientation. This form of injury has recently become very public when the National Football League (NFL) had to settle with retired NFL players suffering from this form of injury as well as brain related mental health issues. Sports have become big money, and in doing so, it has up the ante on the intensity of the sport as well as the consequential injury. 
     As result of the above, there is an increase in urgency to rehabilitate as well as prevent these injuries. 
     One of the most visible solutions to neck injuries and head trauma is to strengthen the neck using resistance-based exercises in conjunction with their corresponding devices. Although these exercises work the neck, they fail to exercise the neck and its nearby body regions in the position on impact. This impact orientation is important because it orients and displaces the vertebrae, muscles, tendons, ligaments in its most vulnerable position. 
     There are two common forms of exercises; isotonic and isometric muscle contraction. The difference between these two contractions is while isometric maintains a joint angle while increasing the work-load to the muscle, isotonic has both a joint angle change and a concentric (shortening) and eccentric (lengthening) motion of that muscle. An example of isometric is to hold a cup while pouring water into it. An example of isotonic is the flexing and relaxing of the bicep muscle. 
     The most optimal strengthening device has the ability to concurrently offer both isotonic and isometric forms of strengthening. This is especially true in the head impact scenario where the head is relatively stationary on impact. It is in this scenario that the impact puts a tremendous stress to the neck when resisting the impact energy that is now displacing this head from its pre-impact position. The goal in this case is to minimize this displacement so as to minimize the injury. Therefore, isometric strengthening of the neck with the head in an impact position strengthens the necessary organs and muscles necessary to resist this displacement. 
     It is also beneficial to combine isotonic strengthening to isometric strengthening. A football tackle injury is often the result of both isotonic and isometric muscle contraction, with the stationary head in impact position as isometric compression, and the arms closing in on the tackle as the isotonic movement. Therefore, strengthening can be maximized having the head strengthening in isometric compression, while the arms are outstretched in an isotonic strengthening motion. 
     Currently, there is a dearth of devices that simulates the head placement, outstretched arms and pulling motion in one fluid motion with all of the muscles of the neck, upper back and upper extremities working together to form a stronger unit. 
     The intensify of competition in Sports has now required athletes to maintain their conditioning beyond the gym. It is now required that they stay in their peak performance, whether out of season or outside the gym. As a result, conditioning and strengthening devices that can be used at home or during road trips in hotels have become more and more main-stream. This continuous conditioning regiment, no matter the place, convenience of time, or comfort of the gym, has become a very important factor in today&#39;s sports climate of peak performance, and of injury avoidance. Therefore, the flexibility of a strengthening device that is portable for road travels, as well as a home-based device, is highly desirable to the serious athlete. 
     Additionally, the strengthening device must be capable to adjust to the differing statures of the user. This adjustability feature is not only for ergonomic reasons, but also allows the user to tailor the settings to push his or her conditioning to the extreme. The head adjustment that tilts the head under isometric compression allows the user such extreme range of conditioning. 
     Aside from the adjustability considerations above, the strengthening device must be safe for usage, allowing the user to be in full control in applying forces especially to the neck area. This full control feature is so that in the event the user loses control of the operations of such device, or suffers lapses of concentration, the device is able to return to a neutral position that removes any possibility of injury. This is even more important with the neck as the spinal cord once injured can often become irreparable damage that often leads to permanent immobility. 
     Another important feature in exercising the neck is for a machine that puts an axial force/load on the cervical and upper thoracic spine while performing isometric cervical exercise and isotonic upper extremity exercise. This axial force on the cervical and upper thoracic spine is similar to the axial forces which occur during tackling sports such as football and wrestling. Even though there currently are devices performing isometric and isotonic neck exercises that strengthen the muscles, ligaments and soft tissues of the cervical spine, there is a dearth of devices that uses the axial force to strengthen the vertebral bodies, vertebral disc, and posterior joints of the cervical spine. This axial strengthening will address compression fractures of vertebral bodies. This type of axial injury sends broken pieces of the posterior vertebral body into spinal canal usually resulting in paralysis. The axial load is also critical in stimulating bone growth (strength) in the inner bone cortices. This growth points to Wolff&#39;s Law, a bone strengthening model developed by German anatomist and surgeon Julius Wollf, that states that bone in a healthy person or animal will adapt to the load under which it is placed. It also states that if loading on a bone is increased, the bone will remodel itself over time to become stronger to resist that load. 
     Another ailment common to both sports and non-sports participants is the loss of cervical lordotic curve. This loss is a major contributor to neck pain and tension. A loss of the normal curve, or reversal of such curve, is also responsible for an increase in the speed of deterioration and arthritis of the spine. The resultant injury from a helmet-to-helmet collision is reduced when the lordosis/curve acts like a spring to absorb the forces produced from such collision. As a result, concussion and brain injury are also reduced. Without the energy absorbing properties from a proper lordotic curve, stress from such collision is then deferred to the vertebral bodies, brain, and inter-vertebral discs to absorb the force, causing severe injury. Additionally, a proper lordotic curve shortens the lever arm that has the head impact on one end, and the connection to the upper thoracic spine on the other rnd. This shorter lever arm decreases whiplash injury and mid brain injury in all contact sport collisions. There is currently a dearth of devices that can restore or induce normal lordotic curvature while simultaneously strengthen the neck and upper extremities mentioned above. Such device would have a set of axial forces top to bottom, and front to back, forces produced while operating the device in other ways beneficial to the upper body, as means to promote the necessary and healthy lordotic curve. 
     In reference to a  FIG. 1  embodiment as shown in Patent US 2003/0148863 A1 issued on Aug. 7, 2003 to Thomas, this Thomas embodiment does not meet the challenges of restoring lordotic curvature, of strengthening the neck and upper body in the orientation that simulates conditions at the point of impact, and of exercising the upper body and back in conjunction with strengthening the neck. 
     In reference to the above  FIG. 2  embodiment as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,893,808 B2 issued on Jan. 16, 1990 to McIntyre et al, this McIntyre embodiment only has cervical flexion and extension, lateral displacement, and rotation. Not only it lacks any exercising of the upper body and back, but it also does not induce a lordotic curvature. 
     In reference to the above  FIG. 3  embodiment as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 8,876,665 issued on Nov. 4, 2014 to Isom, this Isom embodiment relies on the user standing up against the head pad to generate the axial forces that lead to neck strengthening. However, helmeted head impact force is often in the axis 90 degrees from this vertical force, thus Isom&#39;s art does not completely simulate the real-world conditions and dynamics for strengthening. Additionally, the head pad is free to rotate about the attaching arm, and thus Isom&#39;s art is unable to induce proper lordotic curvature. Additionally, Isom&#39;s art lacks any exercising of upper body and back. 
     In reference to the above  FIG. 4  embodiment as shown in Patent US 2010/0292051 A1 issued on Nov. 18, 2010 to Benumof, this Benumof embodiment is unique in the sense that it allows neck exercise in conjunction with arms exercise through a series of interconnecting cables between the head and hands. Additionally, Benumof s art is compact, lightweight, and user friendly enough for home and travel use. However, Benumof s art suffers from the inability to set lordotic curvature due to the cable connections unable to constrain the head in both flexion and compressive mode. Additionally, Benumof s art does not exercise the upper body and upper back so as to support the neck as core supporting muscles. It also does not place the user&#39;s arms and hands in the same collision impact position to simulate a football tackle. 
     ADVANTAGES 
     Accordingly, several advantages of one or more aspects are as follows: to have a exercise device that is inexpensive to produce, that allows the user to be in full control so that the device auto-returns to a neutral position in case the user inadvertently loses control of operating the device, that has the ability to induce corrective lordotic neck curvature, that has the ability to exercise and strengthen the upper body and back as core supporting muscles for the neck, that has the ability to provide axial neck strengthening, that has the ability to accomplish the above in a concurrent manner, that is adjustable for ergonomics and for simulating real collision conditions and for extending the strengthening range, and that is portable. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Notice: A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. 
         FIGS. 1 to 4  illustrate the illustrations of Prior Art as reference; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a perspective view of the Exercise Device of the present Invention and an operator; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a perspective view of the Exercise Device in a retracted position; 
       ALTERNATE EMBODIMENTS 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a perspective view of the Exercise Device in a First Alternative Embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a perspective view of the Exercise Device in a Second Alternative Embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of the Exercise Device in a Third Alternative Embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a first side view of another embodiment of an exercise device; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a second side view of the exercise device of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a top view of the exercise device of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a side view of the exercise device of  FIG. 10  connected/coupled to a support; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a side view of the exercise device of  FIG. 10  connected/coupled to a support together with a user and a resistance band; 
     
    
    
     DRAWINGS—REFERENCE NUMERALS 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 200  
                 Exercise Device 
                 220 
                 Operator 
               
               
                 240 
                 Frame Assembly 
                 260 
                 Base Support End 
               
               
                 280 
                 Arm Support End 
                 300 
                 Seat Support End 
               
               
                 320 
                 Head Fitting Unit Support End 
                 340  
                 Arm 
               
               
                 360  
                 Arm Pivot End 
                 380 
                 Left and Right  
               
               
                 380 
                 Left and Right  
                 A&amp;B 
                 Handle 
               
               
                 C&amp;D 
                 Weight Handle 
                   
                   
               
               
                 400  
                 Head Fitting Assembly 
                 420 
                 Head Contact Unit 
               
               
                 430 
                 Spring Loaded Pin 
                 440 
                 Head Fitting Arm 
               
               
                 460 
                 Sliding Bracket 
                 470 
                 Locking Screw 
               
               
                 480  
                 Seat Unit 
                 500 
                 Seat End 
               
               
                 520 
                 Post End 
                 540 
                 Door 
               
               
                 560 
                 Latching edge 
                 580 
                 Hinge Edge 
               
               
                 600 
                 Interior Side 
                 620 
                 Exterior Side 
               
               
                 640  
                 Force Resistant Device 
                 660 
                 Elastic Flexible  
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Member 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments 
     In some aspects an exercise device to be used by a user is disclosed. The apparatus which an user ( 220 ) communicates with, comprises a base unit ( 260 ) whose shape comprises a first arm projection ( 340 ) comprising 1) a first end ( 380  A) ending along a radiating line from the base unit ( 260 ), 2) a second arm projection ( 440 ) comprising a second end ( 420 ) ending somewhat away from the base unit ( 260 ) in a shape that contacts the user&#39;s head; whereby upon the urging of the user of the first end ( 380  A) produces at the second end ( 420 ) a force onto the user when the second end ( 420 ) is at least in communication with the user&#39;s head. 
     Optionally, the second end ( 420 ) substantially conforms to a portion of the user head apparatus comes in contact with. 
     Optionally the second end ( 420 ) is in contact the underside of the user&#39;s head substantially in the chin and throat area, whereby any force onto user will cause a traction load onto the user&#39;s neck region. 
     Optionally, the first end ( 380 A) terminates in a location substantially in line with the user&#39;s shoulder and at a height between the user&#39;s shoulder and waist. 
     Optionally, the apparatus is coupled to a companion apparatus, the apparatus and the companion apparatus being symmetric relative to each other in at least one axis. 
     Optionally, wherein the second arm projection is separably coupled to the base unit ( 260 ), the second arm projection ( 440 ) further comprises of a third end ( 460 ), the third end ( 460 ) being configured to engage with the base unit ( 320  of  240 ) in a slidably and rotatably adjustable and locking manner. 
     Optionally, wherein the first arm projection ( 340 ) is separably coupled to the base unit ( 260 ), the first arm projection ( 340 ) further comprises of a fourth end ( 360 ), the first arm projection ( 340 ) being pivotally connected to the base unit ( 280  of  240 ) at the fourth end ( 360 ), and the user selectively communicating with the first arm projection at the first end ( 380  A). 
     Optionally, wherein the first arm projection ( 340 ) is coupled to a companion first arm projection ( 380 B and D), the first arm projection ( 340 ) and the companion first arm projection being symmetric relative to each other in at least one axis. 
     Optionally, the head fitting unit ( 420 ) is pivotally and separably coupled to the second end in a selectably adjustable and locking manner, whereby the operation of the apparatus results in a force between the head fitting unit ( 420 ) and the user that can be adjusted into an at least substantially vertical force and an at least substantially horizontal force. 
     Optionally, the first arm projection further comprises of a fifth end ( 380 C) that communicates with a force resistance device allowing the exercise device ( 200 ) to be used in conjunction with the force resistance device. 
     Optionally, the first arm projection and the companion first arm projection are connected in a slidably adjustable and locking manner, wherein the distance between the first arm projection and the companion first arm projection are adjustable in a user selectable manner. 
     Optionally, the fourth end ( 360 ) is pivotally connected to the base unit ( 280  of  240 ) in a configuration that applies a downward force onto user during user operation. 
     Optionally, the base unit ( 260 ) further comprises of a sixth end ( 300 ) that is substantially located to support user while operating the apparatus. 
     Optionally, the base unit ( 260 ) further comprises of a seating unit ( 480 ) that is slidably connected to the sixth end ( 300 ) in a selectably adjustable and locking manner. 
     In some aspects an exercise device ( 200 ) to be used by a user is disclosed. The exercise is to be used in conjunction with a rigid planar body ( 540 ) comprising a projection (Alternate Embodiment 2: Bottom edge of door/Alternate Embodiment 3: Door Knob, not drawn but cited) somewhat normal to the planar body, and is to be used in conjunction with a force resistance ( 640 ) device a user ( 220 ) communicates with. The exercise device comprises of a base ( 440 ) whose shape comprising of 1) a first end ( 420 ) ending along a radiating line from the base unit, and 2) an aperture ( 260 ) sufficiently large enough to communicate with the projection, wherein the base unit ( 440 ) is in communication with the rigid planar body ( 540 ), wherein the aperture (also known as base support end  260 ) is in communication with the projection, whereby upon the urging of the user with the force resistance device ( 640 ) produces a force onto the user when the first end ( 420 ) is in communication with the user&#39;s head. 
     Optionally, the exercise device ( 200 ) further comprises of an elongated member ( 260 ), wherein the base unit ( 440 ) communicates with the rigid planar body ( 540 ) in a stationary manner by means of the elongated member ( 260 ), wherein the elongated member ( 260 ) comprises a seventh and a eighth end, wherein the seventh end is connected to the aperture (slot  260  also) and the eighth end is connected to the projection (defined below). 
     Optionally, the projection comprise of an edge feature (cited) of the rigid planar body ( 540 ). 
     Optionally, the projection is a door knob (cited) and the rigid planar body is a door ( 540 ). 
     Optionally, the first end ( 420 ) substantially conforms to a portion of the user head apparatus comes in contact with. 
     Optionally, the exercise device ( 200 ) comprises of a head fitting unit ( 420 ) pivotally and separably coupled to the first end in a selectably adjustable manner; whereby the force onto the user can be adjusted into an at least substantially vertical force and an at least substantially horizontal force. 
     Detailed Description of Main Embodiment, FIGS.  5  and  6   
     This Left Side teaching is repeated for the Right Side of the figures, and vice versa, as the embodiment is symmetrically identical on both sides where applicable, with the part callout having an ‘A’ part name for the Left side and ‘13’ part name for the Right Side for teaching purposes. Whenever there is no subpart name, it is assumed the right side for left side teaching and vice versa is still preserved. 
     While the configurations according to the illustrated embodiment are preferred, it is envisioned that alternate configurations of the present invention may be adopted without deviating from the invention as portrayed. 
     The preferred embodiments are discussed hereafter. 
     Referring first to  FIG. 5 , a perspective view of an Exercise Device of the present invention, generally indicated as  200 , and an operator, generally indicated as  220 , are shown. 
     The exercise device  200  comprises of a Frame Assembly  240 . The frame assembly comprises of a 1) Base Support end  260 , an 2) Arm Support End  280 , a 3) Seat Support end  300 , and a 4) Head Fitting Unit Support End  320 . 
     In reference to 1), the Base Support end  260  supports the exercise device  200  in a stable manner on a flat surface, such as a floor, so as to allow safe, stable, and effective use of the device  200 . In reference to 2), the arm support end  280  allows an Arm  340  to connect to it in a pivoting manner. In reference to 3), the seat support end  300  allows a Seat Unit  480  to connect to it in a slidably adjusting manner. In reference to 4), the head fitting unit support end allows a Head Fitting Assembly  400  to connect to it in a slidably adjusting manner. 
     With reference to 3), the seat unit  480  comprises of a Seat End  500  and a Post End  520 . The post end  520  slidably engages with the seat support end  300  in a selectively locking manner using a pin device to pass through one of many hole-features in post end  520  and a similar size hole in the seat support end  300 . This pin-and-hole device is a known art and not currently illustrated in this embodiment. However, the current illustration shows the bottom planar surface of the seat end  500 , a surface that roughly projects perpendicular to the axis of the post end  520 , acts to lock the seat unit  480  downward which is further held in place by the operator&#39;s weight. 
     With reference to 4), the head fitting unit  400  is connected to the head fitting unit support end  320  by being slidably connected to a Sliding Bracket  460  in a selectably locking manner. The sliding bracket  460  is slidably connected to the head fitting support end  320  in a selectably locking manner. One optionally feature is to couple head fitting arm  440  to head fitting support arm  320  in a selectable angle manner. This would allow the arm  440  to rotate 180 degrees for multipurpose configurations. The Locking Screw  470  is manually locked to accomplish this selectably locking manner. This allows a largely vertical adjustment to the head fitting unit  400  to ergonomically adjust for the operator&#39;s ergonomics. The fitting unit  400  comprises of a Head Fitting arm  440  that slidably connects to the sliding bracket  460  in a selectably locking manner. This arm connection allows a largely horizontal adjustment to the head fitting unit to ergonomically adjust for the operator&#39;s ergonomics. Connected to the arm  440  is a Head Contact Unit  420  that pivots from the arm  440  so that the unit  420  allows the operator  220  to present his or her forehead&#39;s contact the unit  420  at a user defined angle. A Spring Load Pin  430  is mounted on the arm  440  and passes through a hole feature selected from a plurality of hole features present in the unit  420 , effectively locking the user defined angle in place. 
     Operation: Apparatus,  FIGS. 5 and 6 . 
     In reference to  FIG. 5 , and although not required to fully function the Exercise Device  200 , Operator  220  will maximize the benefits from using exercise device  200  by making the following adjustments to fit the exercise device  200  to his anatomical build prior to operating it. 
     The seat adjustment is preferred in the manner that the operator&#39;s feet are stable and suitably planted to the floor so that operator  220  incurs as little body and head movement during the cycling of the exercise device  200 . The operator has the option of selectably adjusting the seat unit  480  so that the seat end  500  is of the sufficient height to accomplish the stable and suitably planted feet position. 
     The head fitting unit  400  contacts the operator  220  using the optional adjustments from 1) head contact unit  420 , 2) head fitting arm  440 , and 3) sliding bracket  460 . The surface of the head contact unit  420  that comes in contact with the operator  220  can be adjusted and locked in to a predefined operator angle relative to a horizontal line. It is applicant&#39;s finding that the most optimal angle is 45 degrees, with a range of angles between 90 degrees (looking straight up vertically) and 0 degrees (looking straight on horizontally) providing sufficient. Operator  220  selects his angle by retracting the spring-loaded pin  430  in the manner that frees the pin from the hole feature of the head contact unit  420 . Operator  220  can then pivot the head contact unit  420  relative to the head fitting arm  440  until a desired angle is achieved. Operator  220  then releases the spring-loaded pin from his hand so that the pin passes through the desired hole feature of head contact unit  420 . This sets and locks the newly selected angle of the head contact unit  420 . 
     In reference to the adjustments for the head fitting arm  440  and for the sliding bracket  460 , both adjustments are performed together so that the head contact unit  420  contacts the operator&#39;s forehead with the operator  220  in the fully seated and stable manner mentioned earlier. Additionally, these adjustments are performed so that there is maximum surface contact between operator&#39;s forehead and the contact surface of head contact unit  420 . This maximum contact will prevent hot spots in the contact pressure levels from contact, prolonging operator&#39;s comfort during the normal cycling of the exercise device  200 . A largely horizontal adjustment to the head contact unit  420  position is to adjust the head fitting arm  440  relative to the sliding bracket  460  before locking it in position. A largely vertical adjustment to the head contact unit  420  position is accomplished with adjusting the sliding bracket  460  to the head fitting unit support end  320  before locking it with locking screw  470 . 
     In reference to the vertical height location of the handles  380 A and B relative to the operator  220 , the operator has the option of adjusting the height from which the arm  340  can pivot relative to the frame assembly  240 . This optional adjustment is made by pivotally connecting the arm pivot end  360  using one of the set of hole-features found in the arm support end  280 . A preferred height is so that the operator  220  is able to pull the arm  340  with his hands ending up between his mid torso and his shoulder. 
     The operator  220  has the option of adding more resistance to the use of the exercise device  200  when it is used in conjunction with Force Resistance Devices of Known art. One option of a resistance device of known art is a set of stackable weights that can be mounted onto Left and Right Weight Handles  380 C and D. Another option can also be a Stretchable Material, such as a stackable set of Elastomeric Elastic Loops, which is attached at a point on the arm  340 , between the pivot end  360  and Handle end  380 , and the frame  340 . Another option would be a stackable weight in combination with a cable and pulley system whereby the cable is attached at a point on the arm  340 , between the pivot end  360  and handle end  380 , and the stackable weights are on the other end of the cable. These optional devices can be used with this exercise device  200  as a means to increase the head contact pressure between the head contact unit  420  and operator  220 . 
     In reference to  FIG. 6 , Operator  220  has the option of operating one handle or both. However, a balance of forces is best accomplished when operator is pulling on both handles  380 A and B. The teaching henceforth is for the one handle option that can be duplicated for the second handle option. From the seated position with the desired adjustments made, the operator  220  grabs Left Handle  380 A with his Left Hand and simply pulls it towards him as comfortably close as possible to his body. If all adjustments were properly made, the left hand should end up between operator&#39;s mid torso and his shoulder. The operator  220  then has the option of holding the handle  380 A in this close body position as long as desired. This holding is to provide Isometric benefits to the Operator&#39;s neck muscles and tissues. The operator  220 , while in continuous hand contact with the handle  380 A, then relaxes his shoulders and arm muscles so as to return to the handle  380 A to the initial position at the beginning of this teaching. The operator can repeat this cycle at his preferred frequency and duration, a cycle that provides Isotonic benefits to the operator&#39;s upper body muscles and tissues. The operator can selectively change the handle  380 A pulling resistance by changing the configuration of the optional Force Resistance Device that is being used in conjunction with the exercise device  200 . 
     There is a Traction Load option that places the Head contact unit  420  underneath the head, in the chin and neck area. This places a Traction Load onto the neck, an alternate neck strengthening mode than the Forehead compression/Lordotic mode mentioned above. This traction mode would require sliding down the head fitting arm  440  relative to the sliding bracket  460  before locking it in a position that places the head contact unit  420  in such chin/neck position. This may also require the head contact unit  420  to be flipped 180 degrees in the bracket  460  so that its adjustable range can better conform to the chin/neck area to reduce hot spots or injury. This traction load adjustment to the Head contact unit  420  also requires relocating the pivot end  360  of the arm  340  to pivot from the set of holes the frame assembly  240  closer to support end  260  mentioned above. This new traction pivot configuration provides the option of lifting the arm  340  rather than pulling it towards the operator&#39;s chest center as currently illustrated. The user can then experience a downward force during operating this arm  340 , and the head fitting unit  420  in the traction load location will thus resists the downward counteracting user force, imparting a traction load on the user&#39;s neck region. 
     Description—Alternative Embodiment FIGS.  7 - 9   
     First Alternative Embodiment 
     In reference to  FIG. 7 , a one-piece exercise device  200  is shown in the manner of intended use by operator  220 . The exercise device  200  has a base support end  260  which both the arm  340  and head fitting arm  440  are connected to. One end of arm  340  is connected to base support end  260 , while the other end is connected to handle  380   a . One end of head fitting arm  440  is connected to base support end  260 , while the other end is connected to handle head contact unit  420 . 
     The head contact unit  420  is configured in a manner that resists the operator&#39;s  360  head in both the vertical and horizontal direction. In this alternate embodiment, the unit  420  is configured to have a ‘C’ shape so as to resists in the above-mentioned manner and to ergonomically accommodate for the operator&#39;s comfort. 
     The head fitting arm  440  is configured in a manner to allow the head contact unit  420  to self-adjusts to differing range of body builds and proportions as well as to differing head contact angles. In this alternate embodiment, these adjustments are accomplished with the curved ‘C’ shape in arm  440  that, when straightened out, will cause the head contact unit  420  to change both its angle and its position relative to base support end  260 . 
     The arm  340  is configured in a manner that has a built in force-resistance function, foregoing any external force resisting devices mentioned for the Main Embodiment. The arm&#39;s  340  shape configuration on a multi-plane level allows the leg portions of the arm  340  to bend or twist, or a combination of both, producing resistance forces low enough that is both usable and within normal usage range. Additionally, the handles  380   a  and  b  can be spread further apart or brought closer to each to accommodate differing shoulder spans, an adjustability allowed by the above arm  340  configuration. 
     Operations: 
     Operator  220  brings the device  200  in a manner the base support end  260  substantially embraces the torso region. While grabbing both handles  380   a  and  b , the operator raises his head underneath head contact unit  420  until it reaches its intended height, angle, and comfort. 
     The operator  260  can then adjust the spreading distance between handles  380   a  and  b  to a desired distance, typically his shoulder width apart with this distance centered on his body center line. Additionally, the operator  220  can then pull in or push out handles  380   a  and  b  to a desired ergonomic location. 
     Upon reaching the intended ergonomic settings, the operator  220  can apply a pulling force on both handles  380   a  and  b  along the path that connects his shoulders to his hand. This will cause the device  200  to rotate around the base support end  260 , causing an increased in head resistance in both the vertical and horizontal direction. Additionally, and because handles  380   a  and  b  are higher than base support end  260 , this pulling force may cause the device  200  to slide down causing the heading fitting arm  440  to straighten out even further. This straightening out however will increase the intended vertical and horizontal resistance against the operator&#39;s head. 
     Second Alternative Embodiment 
     In reference to  FIG. 8 , a multi-piece exercise device  200  is shown in the manner of intended use by the operator  220 . The exercise device  200  comprise of a base support end  260  which connects to the head fitting arm  440 . The other end of head fitting arm  440  end is connected to accommodate a head contact unit  420  in an adjustable angle manner. 
     The head contact unit  420  is configured in a manner that resists the operator&#39;s  220  head in both the vertical and horizontal direction. In this alternate embodiment, the unit  420  is configured to have a ‘C’ shape so as to resists in the above-mentioned manner so as to ergonomically accommodate for the operator&#39;s comfort. 
     The connection between head fitting arm  440  and the head contact unit  420  allows the operator to select the angle to suit differing range of body builds and proportions, as well as to differing head contact angles. In this alternate embodiment, these adjustments are accomplished with the retracting and releasing of spring-loaded pin  430  that is connected to the head fitting arm  440 . The pin is retracted and released from and into the plurality of hole-features found in the head contact unit  420  to lock down the angle adjustment. 
     The head fitting arm is connected to base support end  260 . In this embodiment, a strap is contemplated for the base support end  260 . 
     It is contemplated that the operator  220  engages with a Force Resistance Device  640 . It is contemplated at this time that device  640  comprises of an Elastic Flexible Member  660 , that in this case is shaped in a continuous loop. The cross-section shape, stiffness, and material choice for member  660  are selected to produce resistance forces low enough that is both usable and within normal usage range. Because of the member&#39;s flexible nature, the hands can be spread further apart or brought closer to each to accommodate differing shoulder spans, an adjustability allowed by this member  660 . 
     Operations: 
     The device  200  is to be used in conjunction with a Door  540  and a Force Resistance Device  640 . 
     Operator  260  brings the device  200  in a manner that the head fitting arm  440  is placed against the door  540  so that the head contact unit is closest to the Latching edge side  560 , embracing this side as well as both Interior Side  600  and Exterior Side  620 . The free end of base support end  260  is connected to the bottom end of the door  540  and is adjusted for operator&#39;s ergonomics. 
     The operator  220  then loops the elastic flexible member  660 , from the interior side  600  passing around the hinge edge side  580  all the way to exterior side  620 , and grabs both ends of the loop. The operator then raises his head underneath head contact unit  420  until it reaches its intended height. The angle of head contact unit  420  is adjusted as described above to a desired angle. Further adjustments can be made to Seat unit  480  to fine tune any vertical adjustment. 
     Because of the flexible nature of member  660 , the operator  260  can then adjust the spreading distance between his hands to a desired distance, typically his shoulder width apart with this distance centered on his body center line. Because of the elastic nature of member  660 , the operator  360  can then pull in or push out his hands to a desired ergonomic starting location. 
     Upon reaching the intended ergonomic settings, the operator  360  can apply a pulling force on both loop ends along the path that connects his shoulders to the starting position of his hand. This will cause the elastic flexible member  660  to lengthen, causing an increased in head resistance in both the vertical and horizontal direction. 
     The wrap around portion of elastic flexible member  660  contacting the hinge edge side  580  can be raised to further increase the operator&#39;s vertical resistance to the head contact unit  420 . This allows the operator to fine tune the varying vertical and horizontal resistance to the level he desires. 
     Third Alternative Embodiment 
     Ln reference to  FIG. 9 , a single-piece version of the exercise device  200  of the Second Alternative Embodiment is shown in the manner of intended use by the operator  220 . In this case, the base support end  260  is integral to the head fitting arm  440 . And head contact unit  420  is integral to the other end of head fitting arm  440  end in a fixed angle manner. 
     The head fitting arm  440  comprise of a base support end  260  that has al′ shape opening that ends with a key-hole opening. In this embodiment, this key-hole is contemplated to permit a door knob to pass the hole, securing head fitting arm  440  in both vertical and horizontal manner. 
     It is contemplated that the operator  220  engages with a Force Resistance Device  640 , of which discussion from the previous alternative embodiment is repeated here. 
     Operations: 
     The device  200  is to be used in conjunction with a Door  540 , a projection from door  540  such as a door knob, and a Force Resistance Device  640 . 
     Operator  260  engages with the device  200  in the same manner as described for second alternative embodiment. However, the base support end  260  is connected to a projection from the door  540  such as a door knob, by slipping the door knob through the slot until it resides at the bottom of the key hole. 
     The operator  220  then performs the same operations for the elastic flexible member  660  around door as discussed above. Further adjustments can be made to Seat Unit  480  to fine tune any vertical adjustment. 
     Upon reaching the intended ergonomic settings, the operator  360  can apply a pulling force on both loop ends along the path that connects his shoulders to his hand. This will cause the elastic flexible member  660  to lengthen, causing an increased in head resistance in both the vertical and horizontal direction. 
     The wrap around portion of elastic flexible member  660  contacting the hinge edge side  580  can be raised to further increase the operator&#39;s vertical resistance to the head contact unit  420 . This allows the operator to fine tune the varying vertical and horizontal resistance to the level he desires. 
     Illustrations of the Subject Technology as Clauses: 
     Some example aspects of the subject technology may be represented as clauses. These clauses are examples of the subject technology, and do not limit the subject technology. 
     1. An apparatus which a user ( 220 ) communicates with, comprising of: 
     A base unit ( 260 ) whose shape comprising;
         A first arm projection ( 340 ) comprising a first end ( 380  A) ending along a radiating line from the base unit ( 260 );   A second arm projection ( 440 ) comprising a second end ( 420 ) ending somewhat away from the base unit ( 260 ) in a shape that contacts the user&#39;s head; whereby upon the urging of the user of the first end ( 380  A) produces at the second end ( 420 ) a force onto the user when the second end ( 420 ) is at least in communication with the user&#39;s head.
 
2. The apparatus of clause 1 wherein the second end ( 420 ) substantially conforms to a portion of the user head apparatus comes in contact with.
 
3. The apparatus of clauses 2 wherein the second end ( 420 ) is in contact with the underside of the user&#39;s head substantially in the chin and throat area, whereby any force onto user will cause a traction load onto the user&#39;s neck region.
 
4. The apparatus of clause 2 wherein the first end ( 380 A) terminates in a location substantially in line with the user&#39;s shoulder and at a height between the user&#39;s shoulder and waist.
 
5. The apparatus of clause 4 wherein the apparatus is coupled to a companion apparatus, the apparatus and the companion apparatus being symmetric relative to each other in at least one axis.
 
6. The apparatus of clause 4 wherein the second arm projection is separably coupled to the base unit ( 260 ), the second arm projection ( 440 ) further comprising of a third end ( 460 ), the third end ( 460 ) being configured to engage with the base unit ( 320  of  240 ) in a slidably and rotatably adjustable and locking manner.
 
7. The apparatus of clause 6 wherein the first arm projection ( 340 ) is separably coupled to the base unit ( 260 ), the first arm projection ( 340 ) further comprising of a fourth end ( 360 ), the first arm projection ( 340 ) being pivotally connected to the base unit ( 280  of  240 ) at the fourth end ( 360 ), and the user selectively communicating with the first arm projection at the first end ( 380 A).
 
8. The apparatus of clause 7, wherein the first arm projection ( 340 ) is coupled to a companion first arm projection ( 380 B and D), the first arm projection ( 340 ) and the companion first arm projection being symmetric relative to each other in at least one axis.
 
9. The apparatus of clause 7 further comprising of a head fitting unit ( 420 ) pivotally and separably coupled to the second in a selectably adjustable and locking manner, whereby the operation of the apparatus results in a force between the head fitting unit ( 420 ) and the user that can be adjusted into an at least substantially vertical force and an at least substantially horizontal force.
 
10. The apparatus of clause 7 to be used in conjunction with a force resistance device, the first arm projection further comprising of a fifth end ( 380 C) that communicates with the force resistance device.
 
11. The apparatus of clause 8, wherein the first arm projection and the companion first arm projection are connected in a slidably adjustable and locking manner, wherein the distance between both the first arm projection and the companion first arm projection are adjustable in a user selectable manner.
 
12. The apparatus of clauses 10 wherein the fourth end ( 360 ) is pivotally connected to the base unit ( 280  of  240 ) in a configuration that applies a downward force onto user during user operation.
 
13. The Apparatus of clause 10 wherein the base unit further comprising of a sixth end ( 300 ) that is substantially located to support user while operating the apparatus.
 
14. The apparatus of clause 13 further comprising of a seating unit ( 480 ) that is slidably connected to the sixth end ( 300 ) in a selectably adjustable and locking manner.
 
15. An apparatus to be used in conjunction with a rigid planar body ( 540 ) comprising a projection (Alternate Embodiment 2: Bottom edge of door; Alternate Embodiment 3: Door Knob, not drawn but cited) somewhat normal to the planar body, and in conjunction with a force resistance ( 640 ) device a user ( 220 ) communicates with, comprising:
       

     A base unit ( 440 ) whose shape comprising of;
         A first end ( 420 ) ending along a radiating line from the base unit;   An aperture ( 260 ) sufficiently large enough to communication with the projection
 
wherein the base unit ( 440 ) is in communication with the rigid planar body ( 540 ),
 
wherein the aperture (also known as base support end  260 ) is in communication with the projection (see notes above), whereby upon the urging of the user with the force resistance device ( 640 ) produces a force onto the user when the first end ( 420 ) is in communication with the user&#39;s head.
 
16. The apparatus of clause 15 further comprising of an elongated member ( 260 ), wherein the base unit ( 440 ) communicates with the rigid planar body ( 540 ) in a stationary manner by means of the elongated member ( 260 ), wherein the elongated member ( 260 ) comprises a seventh end and a eighth end, wherein the seventh end is connected to the aperture (slot  260  also) and the eighth end is connected to the projection.
 
17. The apparatus of clause 15 wherein the projection comprise of an edge feature (cited) of the rigid planar body ( 540 ).
 
18. The apparatus of clause 15 wherein the projection is a door knob (cited) and the rigid planar body is a door ( 540 ).
 
19. The apparatus of clause 15 wherein the first end ( 420 ) substantially conforms to a portion of the user head apparatus comes in contact with.
 
20. The apparatus of clause 15 further comprising of a head fitting unit ( 420 ) pivotally and separably coupled to the first end in a selectably adjustable manner, whereby the force onto the user can be adjusted into an at least substantially vertical force and an at least substantially horizontal force.
       

     CONCLUSIONS, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE FOR DISBURSEMENT APPARATUS 
     From the Description and Operations above, a number of advantages of some of my embodiments become evident:
     1. The Exercise device  200  is inexpensive to produce, a feature especially seen in the one-piece design encapsulated in the first, second, and third alternate embodiment.   2. The Exercise device  200  allows the user to be in full control so that the device auto-returns to a neutral position in case the user inadvertently loses control of operating the device. This is accomplished by the arm  340  and the Force Resistance Device  640  configured in such manner that only applies load to the operator  220  only when he is grabbing onto the device through handles  380 A and B.   3. The Exercise device  200  has the ability to induce corrective lordotic neck curvature, and this is accomplished by the Head Contact unit  420  being adjustable to produce a compressive traction load as well as the required head orientation.   4. The Exercise device  200  has the ability to exercise and strengthen the upper body and back as core supporting muscles for the neck, through the arms  340  (in conjunction with a Force Resistance Device  640 ) having handles  380 A and B that are somewhat in line with the operator&#39;s shoulders, and in between his shoulder and waist.   5. The Exercise device  200  has the ability to provide traction load neck strengthening, especially when the arm  340  has its pivot end  360  connected to the frame assembly  240  near the base support end  260 , causing a substantial downward force that then produces an upward force onto the user when the head contact unit  420  is in contact with the underside of the user head in chin and neck area.   6. The Exercise device  200  is adjustable for ergonomics and for simulating real collision conditions and for extending the strengthening range, especially when the left and right handles  380 A and B can be adjustably spread apart, when the pivot end  360  can pivot from a plurality of holes, and when the head contact unit  420  is both adjustable in angle and in height relative to the operator&#39;s head orientation and position.   7. The Exercise device  200  is portable, a feature especially seen in the one-piece design encapsulated in the first, second, and third alternate embodiment.   

     Although the embodiments show connections connecting non-moving members together, these members can be coupled together by other methods such as welding, epoxy gluing, wrapping, etc. This eliminates the plurality of connections themselves, reducing the assembly complexity (less elements), reducing the weight, as well as cost. Additionally, a connection can be made integral to a member communicating with it in a static way when coupled together. Additionally, an intermediate piece can be wholly eliminated if a member can be bent into the same shape as outlined by an assembly of members and connections. One such possibility is to select a combination of cross sections, wall thickness, material thickness, and shape that would allow the head fitting end ( 420 ) of head fitting arm ( 440 ) to conform to the desired contacting angle with the user. This would eliminate any extra and supportive elements ( 430 ,  460 , and  470 ) as well as pivot-able head fitting unit ( 420 ) to accomplish in the manner Alternative Embodiment 1 is able to accomplish. Additionally, arm  440  can be configured similarly for applying traction load onto user&#39;s neck, which means the force onto user is in the upwards and behind him direction. 
     Additionally, the exercise device, especially for the Alternative Embodiments, can be configured whereby the arms  380 A and B can be activated using the feet instead of the arms. This can be beneficial in the even a stronger force is need for the user&#39;s head that is not achievable using the arms alone. 
     Additionally, another configuration is to have the feet communicate with a force resistance device in addition to the arms communicating with the exercise device. This would increase the force to the user&#39;s head using both feet and hands producing such result. 
     Additionally, another configuration is to attach a force resistance device to the Head fitting arm  440  so as to increase force onto user&#39;s head during operation. Another configuration is to preset the head fitting arm  440  in a manner than introduces as pre-set force onto the user&#39;s head before operating the exercise device. 
     Additionally, the features of die lock features from having the device made with molding technology can be easily overcome with  3 D printing. The decreasing cost of investment into this burgeoning technology makes the entry cost cheaper with each passing year. This printing device allows consolidation of non-moving parts that, once was considered die locked and had to be produced as a multi piece setup, is now available as a single unitized piece. 
     While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any embodiments, but as illustrations of various embodiments thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are possible with the teachings of the various embodiments. 
     Accordingly, the scope should not be determined by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 ,  FIG. 11 , and  FIG. 12 , another embodiment of an exercise device  800  is shown suitable for use by the operator  220 . The exercise device  800  is especially suitable for being supported by a vertical support that defines one or more openings therein, such as illustrated in  FIG. 13  and  FIG. 14 . The exercise device  800  includes a supporting arm  810  that extends in a substantially perpendicular direction to a set of head contacting surfaces  820 . The head contacting surfaces  820  preferably include a central surface  830  that is oriented in a substantially perpendicular orientation to the supporting arm  810 , a first offset surface  832  that is oriented at an obtuse angle with respect to the central surface  830  and is offset to a first side of the central surface  830 , and a second offset surface  834  that is oriented at an obtuse angle with respect to the central surface  830  and is offset to a second side of the central surface  830 . Preferably, the first offset surface  832  and the second offset surface  834  are oriented as the same angular offset with respect to the central surface  830 . Preferably, the central surface  830 , the first offset surface  832 , and the second offset surface  834  are maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to one another that is not adjustable by a user. Preferably, the central surface  830 , the first offset surface  832 , and the second offset surface  834  are maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the supporting arm  810 . Preferably, the central surface  830 , the first offset surface  832 , and the second offset surface  834  include replaceable padded surfaces attached to the front exterior thereof. The interior of the exercise device  800  may include a first bracing member  842  interconnected between a face  846  of the supporting arm  810 , the first offset surface  832 , and a portion of the central surface  830 . The interior of the exercise device  800  may include a second bracing member  844  interconnected between the face  846  of the supporting arm  810 , the second offset surface  834 , and a portion of the central surface  830 . The first bracing member  842  and the second bracing member  844  are preferably part of a single plate that is maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the central surface  830 , the first offset surface  832 , the second offset surface  834 , and the supporting arm  810 . The first bracing member  842  and the second bracing member  844  provide additional rigidity to the central surface  830 , the first offset surface  832 , and the second offset surface  834 . 
     An attachment structure  850  is preferably affixed to the supporting arm  810 . The attachment structure  850  is suitable for being detachably engaged with the vertical support that defines openings therein. The attachment structure  850  may include a cylindrical rod  860  that is aligned with the supporting arm  810  and positioned at a location offset from the supporting arm  810  using an offset member  870 . Referring also to  FIG. 13 , the cylindrical rod  860  is sized to fit through a selected one of a set of cylindrical openings  900  within the vertical support  910 . When engaging the attachment structure  850  with the vertical support  910 , the exercise device  800  is preferably rotated out of alignment so that the cylindrical rod  860  may be slidably engaged within a selected opening  910  in a manner such that a retaining tab  920  may does not come into contact with the side of the vertical support  910  during the engagement process. With the cylindrical rod  860  of the attachment structure  850  fully engaged with the vertical support  910 , the exercise device  800  may be rotated so that the retaining tab  920  is engaged on the far side of the vertical support  910 . The retaining tab  920  inhibits the exercise device  800  from inadvertently disengaging with the vertical support  910 , such as by pulling in line with the supporting arm  810 . In this manner, the exercise device  800  may be engaged and retained at a suitable height along the vertical support  910  consistent with the head of the user. Further, the exercise device  800  includes the set of three surfaces, so that support may be achieved from below the exercise device  800 , from a direction generally horizontal with the exercise device  800 , and from above the exercise device  800 . Referring to  FIG. 14 , the exercise device  800  may be used in combination with other structures, such as a pair of stretchable resistance bands  925  that are maintained in a fixed position with respect to the exercise device  800 .