Patent Description:
Various devices and systems exist to perform a variety of fitness training exercises. As an example, exercise benches exist to provide a platform or support surface for a user to perform various exercises or workouts as part of a strength or fitness program. These exercise benches, however, can be bulky, difficult to adjust, and difficult to store when not in use. For example document <CIT> describes an adjustable exercise bench permitting a variety of exercises thereon.

It is therefore desirable to provide an improved exercise bench that addresses at least in part the above described problems and/or which more generally offers improvements or an alternative to existing arrangements.

The present disclosure generally provides a storable exercise bench as claimed in claim <NUM>. The exercise bench is extendable or collapsible depending on user preference. For example, the exercise bench may be configured into an operating or use position to permit a user to perform various exercises. The exercise bench may be configured into a storage position to create/reduce a footprint size of the exercise bench and permit the exercise bench to be stored in a relatively small space. In some embodiments, a portion of the exercise bench may support both the performance of various exercises as well as storing the exercise bench in the storage position. For example, the exercise bench may include a member movable between first and second positions. In the first position, the member may be positioned to allow a user to perform various exercises, such as by including an ankle pad supporting the lower body of the user. In the second position, the member may support the exercise bench in the storage position, such as in an upright position. For instance, in its second position, the member may form a base in combination with a frame of the exercise bench to support the exercise bench in an upright position.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a storable exercise bench. The exercise bench may include a frame including at least one beam operatively coupled to first and second floor supports and a member operatively coupled with the at least one beam. The exercise bench may be positioned into an operating position in which the first and second floor supports support the at least one beam and the member, and the at least one beam runs generally horizontally in reference to a support surface. The exercise bench may be positioned into a storage position in which the second floor support and the member support the at least one beam and the first floor support, and the at least one beam runs generally vertically in reference to the support surface.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a storable exercise bench. The exercise bench may include a frame including at least one beam operatively coupled to first and second floor supports, a wheel, and a wheel housing operatively associated with the wheel to at least partially cover the wheel. The wheel housing may be arranged to support the exercise bench in an upright storage position in which the at least one beam runs generally vertically in reference to a support surface.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a storable exercise bench. The exercise bench may include a backrest, a seat, and a frame including a first beam portion for supporting the backrest and a second beam portion for supporting the seat. The geometry of the first beam portion and the second beam portion may be such that the first and second beam portions are located interiorly of support points of the exercise bench when the exercise bench is positioned in an upright storage position.

Additional embodiments and features are set forth in part in the description that follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification and drawings or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, which forms a part of this disclosure.

The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in this application and no limitation as to the scope of the claimed subject matter is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, or the like in this summary. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. Moreover, for the purposes of clarity, detailed descriptions of certain features will not be discussed when they would be apparent to those with skill in the art so as not to obscure the description of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments or arrangements illustrated herein, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.

The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following figures in which components may not be drawn to scale, which are presented as various embodiments of the exercise machine described herein and should not be construed as a complete depiction of the scope of the exercise machine.

<FIG> illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a storable exercise bench <NUM> movable between an operating or use configuration (see <FIG>, for instance) and a storage position (see <FIG> and <FIG>, for instance). As described herein, in an operating or use position, the exercise bench <NUM> may permit a user to perform various exercises thereon, such as various strength and/or fitness exercises (e.g., dumbbell exercises, barbell exercises, resistance band exercises, bodyweight exercises, etc.). In a storage position, a footprint of the exercise bench <NUM> may be created and/or reduced to permit the exercise bench <NUM> to be stored in a relatively small space, such as in an upright position. For example, a storage footprint of the exercise bench <NUM> may be created when the exercise bench <NUM> is in a storage position. The storage footprint may be smaller than the footprint of the exercise bench <NUM> when in its operating position. This may facilitate easy storage of the exercise bench <NUM>, such as allowing the exercise bench <NUM> to be safely stored in small spaces (e.g., in closets, in a small space in crowded exercise rooms, etc.). In one example, the exercise bench <NUM> may be oriented to rest upright on end to be stored in a vertically-oriented position.

As detailed below, a portion of the exercise bench <NUM> may be moved between positions to position the exercise bench <NUM> in its operating and storage positions. In one embodiment, the movable portion of the exercise bench <NUM> may support both the performance of various exercises while the exercise bench <NUM> is in its operating position as well as the storing of the exercise bench <NUM> when the exercise bench <NUM> is in its storage position. For example, as detailed more fully below, a portion of the exercise bench <NUM> that facilitates the performance of at least one exercise may be selectively moved to a position allowing the exercise bench <NUM> to be stored in an upright position.

An embodiment of the exercise bench <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> and a movable member <NUM> operatively coupled to the frame <NUM>. The member <NUM>, which may be referred to as a bar, a leg support, or an ankle pad support, among others, may be movably coupled to the frame <NUM>, such as pivotably coupled to the frame <NUM> about a pivot axis <NUM>. In some embodiments, the member <NUM> may be operatively coupled with an ankle pad <NUM>. For example, the member <NUM> may support the ankle pad <NUM> in a position aiding performance of various strength and/or fitness exercises, as detailed below.

As described herein, the member <NUM> may be selectively movable relative to the frame <NUM> between first and second positions (see <FIG> & <FIG>, respectively). In the first position, the member <NUM> may extend from the frame <NUM> in a first configuration to allow a user to perform various exercises. For example, in its first position, the member <NUM> may be positioned to engage the user's lower body (e.g., the user's ankle, calf, and/or shin area) to support the user during exercise. For example, when the member <NUM> is positioned in its first position, the ankle pad <NUM> may be positioned to engage the user's ankle, calf, and/or shin area to provide a steady base for a user to perform various exercises. In the second position, the member <NUM> may extend from the frame <NUM> in a second configuration to allow storage of the exercise bench <NUM>. For example, in its second position, the member <NUM> may be positioned to form a base <NUM> in combination with the frame <NUM> (see <FIG>) to support the exercise bench <NUM> in a storage position, such as in an upright position, as explained below. As described herein, the member <NUM> may rotate about the pivot axis <NUM> to move between its first and second positions.

The exercise bench <NUM> may include a backrest <NUM> and a seat <NUM>. Each of the backrest <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may be supported by the frame <NUM>. For example, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a post <NUM> movably (e.g., pivotably) coupled to the backrest <NUM> and engaged (or engageable) with the frame <NUM> to support the backrest <NUM> in a plurality of positions, such as in a plurality of discrete positions or in an infinite number of positions. For example, the post <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the backrest <NUM> (such as adjacent a rear center portion of the backrest <NUM>) and slidably coupled to the frame <NUM>. In such embodiments, sliding movement of the post <NUM> along a portion of the frame <NUM> may move the backrest <NUM> between positions. In like manner, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a seat post <NUM> movably (e.g., pivotably) coupled to the seat <NUM> and engaged (or engageable) with the frame <NUM> to support the seat <NUM> in a plurality of positions (either in a plurality of discrete positions or in an infinite number of positions), as explained below.

In one embodiment, each of the backrest <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the frame <NUM> to allow angular movement of each of the backrest <NUM> and the seat <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. For example, as explained below, each of the backrest <NUM> and the seat <NUM> may rotate about a common pivot axis <NUM> (see <FIG>, for instance) defined on the frame <NUM> (such as by a bracket <NUM> extending from the frame <NUM>) to angularly position each of the backrest <NUM> and the seat <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> as desired. For instance, the backrest <NUM> may be rotated about the common pivot axis <NUM> to define an inclined surface (see <FIG>), a flat surface (see <FIG>), or a declined surface (see <FIG>) to provide a desired exercise characteristic or foundation. The seat <NUM> may pivot about the common pivot axis <NUM> in a similar manner as desired. In one embodiment, the seat <NUM> may be rotated about the common pivot axis <NUM> to allow the exercise bench <NUM> to be positioned in its operating and storage positions. For example, the seat <NUM> may be movable between first and second positions (see <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively). In its first position, the seat <NUM> may inhibit the member <NUM> from moving into its second position. For instance, in the first positon of the seat <NUM>, movement of the member <NUM> towards its second position may cause the ankle pad <NUM> of the member <NUM> to engage the seat <NUM> prior to the member <NUM> being positioned in its second position. In the second position of the seat <NUM>, the member <NUM> may be free to move into its second position. For example, in its second position, the seat <NUM> may be positioned to allow movement of the ankle pad <NUM> thereby to position the member <NUM> into its second position. In this manner, movement of the member <NUM> between positions may require coordinated movement of the seat <NUM>.

In one embodiment, the frame <NUM> includes at least one beam <NUM> providing structural support for the exercise bench <NUM>. Depending on the particular application, the beam may include first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM>, which can be formed as two or more distinct beam segments joined by weldments and/or as a monolithic beam. In such embodiments, the first beam portion <NUM> may support the backrest <NUM>. The second beam portion <NUM> may support the seat <NUM>. As shown, the post <NUM> may be engaged (or engageable) with the first beam portion <NUM> to support the backrest <NUM> in a desired position. In like manner, the seat post <NUM> may be engaged (or engageable) with the second beam portion <NUM> to support the seat <NUM> in a desired position, including but not limited to the first and second positions discussed herein. As described more fully below, the post <NUM> may be movably (e.g., slidably) coupled to the first beam portion <NUM> to alter the position of the backrest <NUM> relative thereto. Similarly, the seat post <NUM> may be movably coupled to the second beam portion <NUM> to alter the position of the seat <NUM> relative thereto.

The beam <NUM> may be sized, shaped, and/or positioned to support the exercise bench <NUM> in its operating and storage positions. In one embodiment, when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned into its operating position, the beam <NUM> may run or extend generally horizontally in reference to a support surface. Similarly, when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned into its storage position, the beam <NUM> may run or extend generally vertically in reference to the support surface. As described herein, the terms "generally horizontally" and "generally vertically" encompass embodiments in which the beam <NUM> is not truly horizontal or vertical relative to the support surface, such as embodiments in which the beam <NUM> includes both vertical and horizontal components. For example, as shown in at least <FIG>, when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned in its operating position, the beam <NUM> may include both horizontal and vertical components, but the beam <NUM> runs predominantly in a horizontal manner. In like manner, as shown in at least <FIG>, when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned in its storage position, the beam <NUM> may include both vertical and horizontal components, but the beam <NUM> runs predominantly in a vertical manner.

The first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may include many different configurations. For example, and without limitation, the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be elongate members each including proximal and distal ends <NUM>, <NUM>. The proximal ends <NUM> of the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled together, such as monolithically formed together. In one embodiment, the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be positioned with a slight bend therebetween. For example, the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may together form an arcuate shape that is curved convexly away from the support surface. In such embodiments, the common pivot axis <NUM> may be positioned adjacent (e.g., above) the apex of the curved shape, such as proximate the proximal ends <NUM> of the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM>. In each embodiment described herein, the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be sized and shaped to allow movement of the exercise bench <NUM> between its operating and storage positions. For instance, the first beam portion <NUM> may be sized and shaped to allow the backrest <NUM> to be positioned in the plurality of positons discussed above. Similarly, the second beam portion <NUM> may be sized and shaped to allow the seat <NUM> to be positioned in at least its first and second positions.

Depending on the particular application, the frame <NUM> may include two or more floor supports that support the exercise bench <NUM> in at least its operating position. In such embodiments, the beam <NUM> may be operatively coupled to the floor supports. In one embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include a first floor support <NUM> coupled to the first beam portion <NUM> (e.g., to the distal end <NUM> of the first beam portion <NUM>), and a second floor support <NUM> coupled to the second beam portion <NUM> (e.g., to the distal end <NUM> of the second beam portion <NUM>). In such embodiments, the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> may support the front (or head) and rear (or base) of the exercise bench <NUM>, respectively. In one embodiment, one of the floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., the second floor support <NUM>) may be arranged to support the exercise bench <NUM> in an upright storage position in combination with the member <NUM>, as described below. As shown, each of the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> may include a pair of terminal ends <NUM>. In such embodiments, the terminal ends <NUM> of the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> may engage the support surface to support the exercise bench <NUM> in its operating and/or storage positions. The terminal ends <NUM> of the second floor support <NUM> may engage the support surface when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned in both its operating position (see <FIG>) and its storage position (see <FIG>).

Each floor support may include a width sufficient to laterally support the exercise bench <NUM> and inhibit or limit tipping of the exercise bench <NUM> to either side. Additionally, the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> may be spaced along the length of the exercise bench <NUM> to inhibit or limit tipping of the exercise bench <NUM> to the front or rear. As shown, each floor support may be sized and shaped (e.g., U-shaped, T-shaped, etc.) to provide a desired aesthetic or functional characteristic. For example, the second floor support <NUM> may be shaped to space the seat <NUM> (and the backrest <NUM>) away from the support surface, such as to provide a comfortable seating position. The shape of the second floor support <NUM> may also provide a stable base in combination with the movable member <NUM> to support the exercise bench <NUM> in an upright storage position, as explained below. For example, once the member <NUM> is moved to its second position, the exercise machine may be tilted on end to engage the second floor support <NUM> (e.g., the terminal ends <NUM> of the second floor support <NUM>) and the member <NUM> against the support surface (see <FIG>). In one embodiment, the member <NUM> may form a triangular base <NUM> or a tripod-type support structure in combination with the terminal ends <NUM> of the second floor support <NUM> (see <FIG>). As described herein, the portions of the second floor support <NUM> and the member <NUM> contacting the support surface may define an area <NUM> therebetween (see <FIG>). Depending on the particular application, the area <NUM> may be triangular, quadrilateral, or polygonal in shape.

In some embodiments, one or more support pads may be coupled to the floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> and/or the member <NUM> for engagement with the support surface. For example, the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> may include two or more first support pads <NUM> positioned to engage the support surface when the exercise bench <NUM> is in its operating position. A second support pad <NUM> may be coupled to the member <NUM> (e.g., to the bottom of the member <NUM>) to engage the support surface when the member <NUM> is in its second position and the exercise bench <NUM> is tilted on end. In such embodiments, the area <NUM> may be defined between the structures of the second floor support <NUM> and the member <NUM> contacting the support surface. Each support pad <NUM>, <NUM> may be a rubber bumper or similar type support. In some embodiments, the support pads <NUM>, <NUM> may be adjustable to support the exercise bench <NUM> on an uneven or unlevel support surface.

In one embodiment, the size and shape of the exercise bench <NUM> may limit tipping of the exercise bench <NUM> when positioned for storage, such as when positioned upright in its storage position. For example, the geometry of the frame <NUM> (e.g., the geometry of the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM>) may be such to define a center of gravity of the exercise bench <NUM> positioned within the lateral extents of the area <NUM> when the exercise bench <NUM> is tilted on its end and positioned in an upright storage position. In one example, the first and second beam portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be located interiorly of the support points of the exercise bench <NUM> when the exercise bench <NUM> is positioned in an upright storage position. Such a configuration may limit undesired tipping of the exercise bench <NUM>, such as to limit potential injury or property damage caused by the exercise bench <NUM> falling from its upright storage position.

The exercise bench <NUM> may include an adjustment assembly <NUM> operable to selectively position the member <NUM> in its first and second positions. As one example, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may include corresponding engagement features between the frame <NUM> and the member <NUM>. For instance, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may include first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> operatively associated with the frame <NUM>. In one embodiment, the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> may be defined on a bracket <NUM> connected to the second beam portion <NUM>. In such embodiments, the member <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the bracket <NUM>, such as at the pivot axis <NUM>. Depending on the particular application, the bracket <NUM> may be positioned at least partially between the seat <NUM> and the second beam portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may extend at least partially within the member <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> may be defined as part of a track <NUM> defined within the beam <NUM> (e.g., within the bracket <NUM>). The track <NUM> may include a transition portion <NUM> defined between the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM>. In such embodiments, a portion of the member <NUM> may extend within the track <NUM> to define the movement of the member <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>, as explained below. For example, a portion of the member <NUM> may extend within the track <NUM> and traverse from the first detent <NUM>, along the transition portion <NUM>, and into the second detent <NUM> to move the member <NUM> from its first position to its second position. Similarly, a portion of the member <NUM> may extend within the track <NUM> and traverse from the second detent <NUM>, along the transition portion <NUM>, and into the first detent <NUM> to move the member <NUM> from its second position to its first position. As shown, the transition portion <NUM> may be shaped arcuately between the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> to allow rotation of the member <NUM> about the pivot axis <NUM>. The first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> may extend from, and at an angle to, the transition portion <NUM> to define hard stops for the first and second positions of the member <NUM>, respectively.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may include a pin <NUM> movably coupled with the member <NUM> and selectively positioned within the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> to position the member <NUM> in its first and second positions, respectively. For example, the pin <NUM> may be slidably coupled with the member <NUM> to move along a length of the member <NUM>, such as between opposing first and second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the member <NUM>. In such embodiments, the first end <NUM> of the member <NUM> may be pivotably coupled to the frame <NUM> (e.g., to the bracket <NUM> at the pivot axis <NUM>). The ankle pad <NUM> may be operatively coupled with the second end <NUM> of the member <NUM>. The pin <NUM> may be movably coupled to the member <NUM> between the pivot axis <NUM> and a terminal end (e.g., the first end <NUM>) of the member <NUM>.

As described herein, the pin <NUM> may move along the track <NUM> as the member <NUM> moves relative to the frame <NUM>. For example, as the member <NUM> rotates about the pivot axis <NUM>, the pin <NUM> may move along the transition portion <NUM> between the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM>. Once positioned proximate either the first detent <NUM> or the second detent <NUM>, the pin <NUM> may move along a length of the member <NUM> and into the detent. For example, once positioned proximate the first detent <NUM>, the pin <NUM> may move along a length of the member <NUM> towards the pivot axis <NUM> and into the first detent <NUM>. Similarly, once positioned proximate the second detent <NUM>, the pin <NUM> may move along a length of the member <NUM> towards the pivot axis <NUM> and into the second detent <NUM>. To transition the member <NUM> between positions, the pin <NUM> may be moved out of the respective detent and into the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>. For instance, to transition the member <NUM> from its first position, the pin <NUM> may be moved along a length of the member <NUM> and away from the pivot axis <NUM> to disengage the pin <NUM> from the first detent <NUM> and position the pin <NUM> within the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>. In like manner, to transition the member <NUM> from its second position, the pin <NUM> may be moved along a length of the member <NUM> and away from the pivot axis <NUM> to disengage the pin <NUM> from the second detent <NUM> and position the pin <NUM> within the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> is positioned within the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>, the member <NUM> may be free to rotate about the pivot axis <NUM> to move the member <NUM> between its first and second positions. The examples described above are for illustration purposes only and other configurations are contemplated. For example, the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM> may be arranged such that the pin <NUM> is moved towards the pivot axis <NUM> to disengage the pin <NUM> from the detents (see <FIG>).

In some embodiments, the pin <NUM> may be spring-actuated to bias the pin <NUM> into the first detent <NUM>, into the second detent <NUM>, or into both the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may include a spring <NUM> coupled with the pin <NUM> to bias the pin <NUM> towards or away from the pivot axis <NUM>. For example, the spring <NUM> may be arranged such that when the pin <NUM> is positioned proximate the first detent <NUM> or the second detent <NUM>, the spring <NUM> may urge the pin <NUM> to engage (such as automatically engage) the detent. In this manner, as the member <NUM> is rotated about the pivot axis <NUM> towards either its first position or its second position, the pin <NUM> may automatically seat within the first detent <NUM> or within the second detent <NUM>, respectively, under the bias of the spring <NUM>. This may also provide a positive locking of the member <NUM> into its first and second positions. In such embodiments, the member <NUM> may be moved relative to the frame <NUM> only upon positive release of the pin <NUM> from the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the adjustment assembly <NUM> may include an actuator <NUM> operable to release the pin <NUM> from the first and second detents <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the actuator <NUM> may be coupled to the pin <NUM>, such as via a rod <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, to selectively move the pin <NUM> against the bias of the spring <NUM>. Depending on the particular application, the actuator <NUM> may be a push plate mechanism (see <FIG>) or a lever-type mechanism (see <FIG>). When embodied as a push plate mechanism, the actuator <NUM> may be positioned at the second end <NUM> of the member <NUM> (e.g., adjacent the ankle pad <NUM>). When embodied as a lever-type mechanism, the actuator <NUM> may be positioned adjacent the second support pad <NUM>, such as concealed behind or within the second support pad <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). The examples above are non-limiting, and the actuator <NUM>, as well as the other components of the adjustment assembly <NUM>, may include other suitable configurations.

Similar to the member <NUM>, the seat <NUM> may be selectively positioned in its first and second positions. As one non-limiting example, the seat post <NUM> may be at least partially received within a seat track <NUM> defined within the beam <NUM>, such as within the bracket <NUM> connected to the second beam portion <NUM>. For example, the seat post <NUM> may include a pin <NUM> received at least partially within the seat track <NUM>. In such embodiments, the seat track <NUM> may be shaped such that movement of the seat post <NUM> (e.g., the pin <NUM>) within the seat track <NUM> moves the seat <NUM> between its first and second positions. Similar to the adjustment assembly <NUM>, the seat track <NUM> may be shaped to positively engage the seat <NUM> in its first and second positions. For instance, as best shown in <FIG>, the seat track <NUM> may be include an inverted V-shape or U-shape including a first track portion <NUM> and a second track portion <NUM> defining the first and second positions of the seat <NUM>, respectively. As shown, the first and second track portions <NUM>, <NUM> may extend at least partially downward towards the support surface. In such embodiments, when the pin <NUM> is positioned within either the first track portion <NUM> or the second track portion <NUM>, at least the weight of the seat <NUM> may positively position the pin <NUM> in one track portion and limit movement of the pin <NUM> into the other track portion.

As described herein, the seat <NUM> and/or the seat track <NUM> may be sized and shaped to position the seat <NUM> in a manner facilitating the positioning of the member <NUM> into its second position. For example, the seat track <NUM> may be shaped such that positioning the seat <NUM> into its second position allows the ankle pad <NUM> of the member <NUM> to move by the seat <NUM>. For example, the seat track <NUM> may be shaped such that the seat <NUM> is positioned between the frame <NUM> and the ankle pad <NUM> when the seat <NUM> is in its second position and the member <NUM> is in its second position. In some embodiments, the seat <NUM> may include a cut-out <NUM> sized and shaped to at least partially receive the member <NUM> therein (at least when the member <NUM> is in its second position).

Similar to the seat <NUM> and the member <NUM>, the backrest <NUM> may be selectively positioned as desired. For example, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a lock mechanism <NUM> operable to maintain or effectively lock the backrest <NUM> in a desired angular position. In one embodiment, the lock mechanism <NUM> includes a releasable latch structure <NUM>. The latch structure <NUM> may include a plurality of catches <NUM> and a securement mechanism <NUM>. The securement mechanism <NUM> may be selectively securable to, such as releasably engageable with, the catches <NUM> to define discrete positions of the backrest <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. For example, engagement of the securement mechanism <NUM> with particular catches <NUM> may define an uppermost position of the backrest <NUM> (see <FIG>), an intermediate position of the backrest <NUM> (see <FIG>), and a lowermost position of the backrest <NUM> (see <FIG>), among others.

The catches <NUM> and the securement mechanism <NUM> may take on many suitable configurations. For instance, in one example, the securement mechanism <NUM> may include a pop pin structure <NUM> operable to releasably engage corresponding apertures <NUM> defined within the first beam portion <NUM> (see <FIG>). In other examples, the securement mechanism <NUM> may include a rod or bar <NUM> releasably secured within indentations <NUM> defined in the first beam portion <NUM> (see <FIG>). In such embodiments, the rod or bar <NUM> may be slidably coupled to the first beam portion <NUM>, such as within a channel <NUM> defined within the first beam portion <NUM>. In such embodiments, the indentations <NUM> may be defined along the length of the channel <NUM>. The rod or bar <NUM> may be disengaged from the indentations <NUM> by lifting the rod or bar <NUM> out of the indentations <NUM> either manually or via a ramp structure <NUM> slidably received within the first beam portion <NUM> (see <FIG>). For example, actuation of a lever <NUM> may move the ramp structure <NUM> within the first beam portion <NUM> to engage and subsequently lift the rod or bar <NUM> out of the indentations <NUM>. Once disengaged from the indentations <NUM>, the rod or bar <NUM> may be free to slide within the channel <NUM> to raise or lower the backrest <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>.

The lock mechanism <NUM> may take on other suitable configurations. For example, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the lock mechanism <NUM> may include a ratchet device <NUM> operable to limit rotation of the post <NUM> relative to the backrest <NUM>. In one example, the ratchet device <NUM> includes a ratchet wheel <NUM>, a lock bar <NUM>, and a release assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>). The ratchet wheel <NUM>, which may be fixedly connected to the post <NUM>, may include a plurality of ratchet teeth <NUM> to define the discrete positions of the backrest <NUM>. For example, the lock bar <NUM> may releasably engage a desired one of the ratchet teeth <NUM> to define the angular position of the post <NUM> relative to the backrest <NUM>, and thereby the angular position of the backrest <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the ratchet teeth <NUM> are directional such that the ratchet wheel <NUM> may rotate relative to the lock bar <NUM> in one rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise in <FIG>) but is limited from rotating in an opposite rotational direction (e.g., clockwise in <FIG>). In this manner, the post <NUM> may be allowed to rotate relative to the backrest <NUM> in one direction to allow user manipulation of the backrest <NUM> into an upright position. The directional nature of the ratchet teeth <NUM>, however, may limit or inhibit rotation of the post <NUM> relative to the backrest <NUM> in an opposite direction to provide a stable base for a user to perform exercise movements. For example, to lower the backrest <NUM> from a relative upright position, the lock bar <NUM> must first be disengaged from the ratchet teeth <NUM>.

The release assembly <NUM> may be operable to selectively release the lock bar <NUM> from the ratchet wheel <NUM>. For instance, the release assembly <NUM> may include a linkage assembly <NUM> coupled to a lever arm <NUM> (see <FIG>) such that selective rotation of the lever arm <NUM> moves the linkage assembly <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the linkage assembly <NUM> is connected to the lock bar <NUM> to selectively disengage the lock bar <NUM> from the ratchet wheel <NUM>. For example, rotation of the lever arm <NUM> in one direction may move the linkage assembly <NUM> in a first manner to disengage the lock bar <NUM> from the ratchet wheel <NUM>. In like manner, rotation of the lever arm <NUM> in an opposite direction may move the linkage assembly <NUM> in a second manner to engage the lock bar <NUM> with the ratchet wheel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lock bar <NUM> may be biased against the ratchet wheel <NUM>. For example, the release assembly <NUM> may include a spring <NUM> arranged to bias the lock bar <NUM> into engagement with the ratchet wheel <NUM>. In such embodiments, the spring <NUM> may bias the lock bar <NUM> into a locked engagement with the ratchet wheel <NUM> absent a directed force from a user disengaging the lock mechanism <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a wheel <NUM> and a wheel housing <NUM> operatively associated with the wheel <NUM> to at least partially cover the wheel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a plurality of wheels <NUM> (e.g., two wheels) and a corresponding number of wheel housings <NUM>. Each wheel <NUM> may be operable to rollably support the frame <NUM> on a support surface. For example, the wheel <NUM> may be coupled to the second floor support <NUM> (e.g., to the terminal ends <NUM> of the second floor support <NUM>). In such embodiments, a user may tilt the exercise bench <NUM> to rollably engage the wheel <NUM> with the support surface. Once the wheel <NUM> engages the support surface, the exercise bench <NUM> may be repositioned or otherwise moved along the support surface via the wheel <NUM>.

The wheel housing <NUM> may be arranged to support the exercise bench <NUM> in its upright storage position. To allow movement of the exercise bench <NUM> along the support surface via the wheel <NUM>, however, the wheel housing <NUM> may be configured to not engage the support surface when the exercise bench <NUM> is in its operating position. For example, the wheel housing <NUM> may be configured to not engage the support surface within a first inclined angular range <NUM> (see <FIG>) of the exercise bench <NUM> to allow the exercise bench <NUM> to be repositioned along the support surface via the wheel <NUM>. In such embodiments, the wheel housing <NUM> may be configured to engage the support surface at angles between the first inclined angular range <NUM> and the upright storage position of the exercise bench <NUM> to limit the exercise bench <NUM> from being moved along the support surface within such angles. Depending on the particular application, the first inclined angular range <NUM> may include angles up to about <NUM> degrees. In one embodiment, the first inclined angular range <NUM> may be between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, though the first inclined angular range <NUM> may encompass other angular ranges (e.g., between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, etc.). In such embodiments, a user may traverse the exercise bench <NUM> across the support surface via the wheel <NUM> when the exercise bench <NUM> is tilted within the first inclined angular range <NUM>.

Tilting the exercise bench <NUM> beyond the first inclined angular range <NUM> may engage the wheel housing <NUM> with the support surface to limit further movement of the exercise bench <NUM> along the support surface (e.g., for storage). In some embodiments, the wheel housing <NUM> may define or include a support pad <NUM>. In such embodiments, the support pad <NUM> of the wheel housing <NUM> may engage the support surface when the exercise bench <NUM> is in its upright storage position. The support pads <NUM> of the wheel housings <NUM> may define the area <NUM> in combination with the second support pad <NUM> of the member <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the exercise bench <NUM> may include other features for convenience. For example, the exercise bench <NUM> may include a handle <NUM> coupled to the backrest <NUM> to allow user manipulation of the backrest <NUM> and/or the exercise bench <NUM>. For example, a user may manipulate the handle <NUM> to move the backrest <NUM> between its positions. Additionally or alternatively, a user may manipulate the handle <NUM> to tilt the exercise bench <NUM>. When tilted within the first inclined angular range <NUM>, the user may manipulate the handle <NUM> to roll the exercise bench <NUM> along the support surface via the wheel <NUM>. The handle <NUM> may include many suitable configurations. For example, the handle <NUM> may be U-shaped (see <FIG>) or T-shaped (see <FIG>), among others. In some embodiments, the handle <NUM> include a smooth grip portion <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Operation of the exercise bench <NUM> will now be discussed in more detail. Depending on user preference and space constraints, the user may desire to store the exercise bench <NUM>, such as in a closet, in the corner of a room, etc. To position the exercise bench <NUM> for storage, the user may position the backrest <NUM> in its lowermost position. For example, to lower the backrest <NUM>, the user may disengage the lock mechanism <NUM> and move the backrest <NUM> towards the first beam portion <NUM>. Once positioned in its lowermost position, the backrest <NUM> may be releasably locked in position (e.g., via the lock mechanism <NUM>). Additionally or alternatively, the user may position the seat <NUM> in its second position. For instance, as described above, the user may lift up on the seat <NUM> to transition the pin <NUM> of the seat post <NUM> from the first track portion <NUM> to the second track portion <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> is within the second track portion <NUM>, the seat <NUM> may be lowered towards the second beam portion <NUM> and into its second position.

Once the seat <NUM> is in its second position, the member <NUM> may be moved from its operation position to its second position. To move the member <NUM> into its second position, the user may actuate the adjustment assembly <NUM>. For example, the user may depress, rotate, or otherwise actuate the actuator <NUM> to disengage the pin <NUM> from the first detent <NUM> and position the pin <NUM> within the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>. Once the pin <NUM> is positioned within the transition portion <NUM> of the track <NUM>, the member <NUM> may be rotated upwards towards the seat <NUM> about the pivot axis <NUM>. The member <NUM> may be rotated about the pivot axis <NUM> until the pin <NUM> is positioned proximate the second detent <NUM>, at which point the pin <NUM> may automatically engage the second detent <NUM> under the bias provided by the spring <NUM> of the adjustment assembly <NUM>.

Once the member <NUM> is positioned in its second position, the user may tilt the exercise bench <NUM> on end to engage the support pads <NUM>, <NUM> defined on the wheel housings <NUM> and the member <NUM> with the support surface. As shown in <FIG>, the relative geometries and positioning of the components may be such that the exercise bench <NUM> is stored substantially vertically. When positioned vertically, the center of gravity of the exercise bench <NUM> may be positioned to limit undesired tipping of the exercise bench <NUM> to any side, thereby reducing the likelihood of potential injury or property damage resulting from the exercise bench <NUM> falling over.

The exercise bench <NUM> may be removed from storage and positioned in its operating position in substantially the reverse order discussed above. For example, the user may lower the exercise bench <NUM> from a vertical position until the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM> engage the support surface. Once lowered, the member <NUM> may be moved to its first position by releasing the pin <NUM> from the second detent <NUM> and rotating the member <NUM> downwards until the pin <NUM> automatically engages the first detent <NUM> via the adjustment assembly <NUM>. Once the member <NUM> is lowered into its first position, the seat <NUM> may be raised to its first position by raising the seat <NUM> until the pin <NUM> is received within the first track portion <NUM> of the seat track <NUM>, whereupon the seat <NUM> is lowered into is first position. Depending on the exercise to be performed, the backrest <NUM> may be raised to a desired position relative to the frame <NUM>.

The exercise bench <NUM> may be formed from a variety of materials and means. For instance, the exercise bench <NUM> may be formed from metal, plastic, or any other suitable material with sufficient strength. In some embodiments, portions of the exercise bench <NUM> (e.g., the frame <NUM>, the member <NUM>, etc.) may be extruded from metal or another thermoformable material. Metals may include aluminum, steel, titanium, or any other suitable metal, alloy, or composite. Plastics may include a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), nylon, LDPE, ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PTFE, among others, and may be formed or molded in any suitable manner, such as by plug molding, blow molding, injection molding, extrusion, or the like. In some embodiments, at least some of the components of the exercise bench <NUM> (e.g., the frame <NUM>, the first and second floor supports <NUM>, <NUM>, and the member <NUM>, among others) may be coated with a vinyl, a rubberized material, or any other coating for increased durability.

All relative and directional references (including: upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, middle, back, vertical, horizontal, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader's understanding of the particular embodiments described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

Claim 1:
A storable exercise bench (<NUM>) comprising:
a frame (<NUM>) comprising a beam (<NUM>) operatively coupled to a first floor support (<NUM>) and a second floor support (<NUM>), wherein the first floor support and the second floor support together support the beam above a support surface when the exercise bench is in an operating position;
a seat (<NUM>) supported by the frame;
a backrest (<NUM>) pivotably coupled to the frame;
a member (<NUM>) configured to support the exercise bench, together with the second floor support, when the exercise bench is in a storage position, the member comprising a first end pivotably coupled to the beam and a second end comprising a support pad (<NUM>), wherein the member is selectively pivotable between a first position, in which a pin (<NUM>) proximate the first end of the member engages a first detent (<NUM>), and a second position, in which the pin engages a second detent (<NUM>), wherein the pin is moved into and out of engagement with the first detent and second detent by an actuator (<NUM>) proximate the second end of the member.