Patent Publication Number: US-2023136975-A1

Title: Controlled squat strength-training machine

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims priority in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/273,004, filed Oct. 28, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment, and in particular to a strength-training machine for performing squats with variable resistance through a controlled range-of-movement (ROM) for dynamic positioning. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Physical training (PT) exercises can be performed with free weights, such as barbells, dumbbells, etc. Moreover, individuals can strength-train using their own body weight in exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, etc. Exercise machines are available for performing various resistance training exercises within controlled ranges-of-movement (ROMs) with adjustable resistance. However, previously, there has not been available a squat strength-training machine with the advantages and features of the present invention, including stabilizing a user&#39;s knee joints throughout the squat (ROM) exercise. 
     Squat exercises are performed by individuals raising and lowering themselves between standing and squatting positions. Squats strengthen several muscle groups, including quadriceps in the legs and erectors in the back. Greater strength can be achieved by performing squats with free weights, such as barbells resting on the shoulders and by participants holding dumbbells. By using free weights, the strength-training benefits are increased. However, participants using unrestrained free weights are susceptible to injuries, particularly to the knees. Risks of injuring or “blowing out” knees increase as individuals perform squats with greater weights. Such injuries can range from minor strains of the muscles and ligaments to tears and separations. Extensive injuries can necessitate medical treatment and, in severe cases, surgical repair of damaged muscles and ligaments. 
     Heavy lifts, including squats, are often done in the presence of another individual, i.e., a “spotter.” Spotters can catch a barbell in the event an individual is unable to complete the exercise due to excessive weight, fatigue, muscle cramping, etc. Alternatively, squat cages and similar equipment are available for controlling ranges of movement and reducing injury risks to users. 
     Resistance training equipment using springs and elasticized bands as resistance elements are also available. Variable resistance can be achieved by using springs and bands with different expansion-contraction characteristics, and by using multiple resistance elements. 
     Previously, there has not been available a dynamic-positioning, knee-stabilizing, motion-limiting, squat-training machine with the advantages and features of the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention includes a frame configured for placement on a flat surface. The individual participant starts in a sitting position and rises to a standing position while gripping a T-bar to perform a squat. One or more elasticized resistance bands stretch through the range of motion. The machine includes pads configured for supporting an individual and restraining him or her throughout the squat motion. The resistance bands, pads and other frame elements are adjustable for repositioning as necessary to optimize the exercise benefit. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention illustrating various objects and features thereof. 
         FIG.  1    is a partial, perspective view of a front portion of a controlled squat strength-training machine embodying an aspect or embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  2    shows portions of the machine, including: the base frame; the vertical standard with a vertically-sliding traveler, an upper band pulley; a T-bar assembly; and a rear upright for vertically-adjustably mounting a bench. 
         FIG.  3    is a side elevation, showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention with a user in an upright, standing position with his or her knees engaging a knee pad. 
         FIG.  4    is another side elevation, showing a user in a squatting position with his or her knees engaging the knee pad. 
         FIG.  5    is a side elevation of another alternative embodiment of the present invention with a user in a seated position. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     I. Introduction and Environment 
     As required, detailed aspects of the present invention are disclosed herein, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed aspects are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. 
     Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, front, back, right, and left refer to the invention as orientated in the view being referred to. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the aspect being described and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar meaning. 
     II. Controlled Squat Strength-Training Machine  2   
     Referring to the drawings more detail,  FIGS.  1 - 2    show an embodiment or aspect of the present invention comprising a controlled squat strength-training machine, which is generally designated by the reference numeral  2 . The machine  2  includes a frame  4  with a base  6 , including a pair of longitudinal angle sections  8  and a front, transverse angle section  10 . The frame  4  also includes front and back gussets  12 ,  14 . 
     A front upright  16  is attached to the front gussets  12  and the front ends of the longitudinal angle sections  8 . The front upright mounts a traveler  18 , which is vertically slidably movable thereon and includes multiple (e.g.,  3  are shown) upper, intermediate, and lower rods  20   a ,  20   b ,  20   c  respectively, which extend forwardly from the traveler  18 . A pair of forwardly-extending traveler arms  22  are positioned above the rods  20   a ,  20   b  and  20   c.    
     An intermediate upright  24  is pivotally connected to the longitudinal angle sections  8  and telescopically, vertically-adjustably mounts a generally horizontal grip bar  26 . The intermediate upright  24  also mounts a pair of knee pads or restraints  30 . 
     A pair of padded foot restraints  28  are connected to the longitudinal angle sections  8  and are configured for engagement by a user to facilitate proper foot position and alignment. A rear upright  32  is connected to the longitudinal angle sections  8  and the rear gusset  14 . The rear upright  32  adjustably mounts a seat assembly  34  comprising a front, knee-engaging component  34   a  and a rear seat component  34   b.    
     An elastomeric resistance band  36  is attached to the transverse angle section  10  by a pair of forwardly-extending resistance band anchors  38 . A lifting strap  40  is anchored to the traveler arms  22 , passes over an upper pulley  42 , passes under front and back lower pulleys  40   a ,  40   b  respectively and terminates at a yoke assembly  46 . The yoke assembly  46  includes a chain  48 , which mounts a padded yoke  50  configured for placement over a user&#39;s shoulders and supporting a pair of pads  52  for placement on a user&#39;s neck. The pads  52  engage the user&#39;s legs, preferably in proximity to the knees. 
     The components of the strength-training machine are adjustable to accommodate various users through squat exercises with different ranges-of-motion. For example, telescoping tubes can be secured in place by locking pins  54 . Moreover, multiple resistance bands  36 , with different resistance characteristics, can be utilized for increasing or decreasing lifting resistance. The resistance band  36  offers greater resistance when placed over the uppermost rod  20   a  and the least resistance when placed over the lowermost rod  20   c . The yoke assembly connecting chain  48  enables adjustment to accommodate users of different heights. 
     III. Alternative Embodiments 
       FIGS.  3 - 4    show a controlled squat strength-training machine comprising a first alternative aspect or embodiment of the present invention with a modified upright  104 , grip bar assembly  106  and knee pad assembly  108 . The strength-training machine  102  enables strength-training squats using the bodyweight of the user. The user&#39;s body weight can be supplemented with weights, e.g., a weight vest. 
       FIG.  5    shows a controlled squat strength-training machine comprising a second alternative aspect or embodiment of the present invention with a modified seat assembly  204 . The user can pull himself or herself up by grasping a grip bar assembly  206 . 
     IV. Conclusion 
     It is to be understood that the invention can be embodied in various forms and is not to be limited to the examples specifically discussed above. The range of components and configurations which can be utilized in the practice of the present invention is virtually unlimited.