Patent Description:
The disclosure relates in general to a weightlifting equipment, and more particularly, to weightlifting racks and to structures for coupling weightlifting racks to a wall surface.

A staple of any gym is a weightlifting rack assembly. The weightlifting rack assembly is used to support weights for many weightlifting exercises, such as, for example, squatting, pressing, among others. Additionally, weightlifting rack assemblies can be used for body weight exercises, including, for example, chin-ups, pull-ups and the like. Further, additional structures can be coupled thereto for storage, and for the performance of yet further exercises.

Increasingly, athletes are converting living spaces or, for example, garage spaces into home gyms. To increase versatility, a number of foldable or collapsible weightlifting rack assemblies have been developed. Typically, these foldable or collapsible assemblies are attached to a wall surface (such as a garage wall). They can be folded or collapsed to permit the use of the garage, to, for example, store a vehicle, when the assemblies are not in use. That is, they can be folded to be quite flush with the wall surface to which they are attached.

Problematically, however, to properly secure the assembly to the wall surface, it is often necessary to secure studs to the wall surface to span between the vertical wall studs. Problematically, the use of additional studs on the wall surface increases the footprint of the assembly, which is problematic when space is at a premium. Additionally, where it is desirable to couple the assembly to vertical studs directly, there is often a limitation as to the placement of the assembly. And, often, the wall studs are too narrow to be used to support the assembly.

<CIT> discloses a retractable wall mounted exercise rack system for providing an exercise rack that may be stored when not in use. The retractable wall mounted exercise rack system generally includes one or more brackets attached to a wall, a pair of support members, and a plurality of arms pivotally extending from the brackets and pivotally connecting to the support members. One or more actuators are connected between the brackets and the arms to assist in lifting the structure into a compact retracted position for storage.

The present invention relates to a weightlifting assembly as defined by appended independent claim <NUM>. According to one aspect, the disclosure relates to a weightlifting assembly that includes a wall mount bracket configured for mounting to a wall surface and a weightlifting rack assembly connected to the wall mount bracket. The weightlifting rack assembly may have various configurations. The wall mount bracket is elongated along a lateral width thereof and has a first mounting region and a second mounting region spaced from each other along the lateral width the wall mount bracket.

The weightlifting rack assembly includes a first side mount bracket having a first base connected to the first mounting region of the wall mount bracket, a first support arm extending outward from the first base, and a first receiver connected to the first support arm, a second side mount bracket having a second base connected to the second mounting region of the wall mount bracket, a second support arm extending outward from the second base, and a second receiver connected to the second support arm, and a bar connected to the first side mount bracket and the second side mount bracket and extending between the first and second side mount brackets in a direction along the lateral width of the wall mount bracket. In this configuration, the bar is received in the first and second receivers to connect the bar to the first and second side mount brackets, and the wall mount bracket is configured to suspend the weightlifting rack assembly above a ground surface, such that the weightlifting rack assembly does not engage the ground surface. The weightlifting rack assembly in this configuration may be suited for use as a pull-up bar.

According to one aspect, the first support arm extends outwardly and downwardly from the first base, and the second support arm extends outwardly and downwardly from the second base. In one aspect, the first support arm has a first distal end that extends below a lowermost point of the wall mount bracket, and the second support arm has a second distal end that extends below the lowermost point of the wall mount bracket. In this configuration, the first receiver may be positioned on the first distal end of the first support arm, and the second receiver may be positioned on the second distal end of the second support arm. In a further aspect, the first receiver is positioned on an inner surface of the first support arm that faces the second support arm and has an opening facing the second support arm, and the second receiver is positioned on an inner surface of the second support arm that faces the first support arm and has an opening facing the first support arm.

According to another aspect, the bar has a circular shape and the first and second receivers have circular openings, and wherein the bar has a first end received in the first receiver and a second end received in the second receiver.

According to a further aspect, the first side mount bracket further includes a first brace extending rearward from the first support arm and engaging the wall mount bracket to support the first support arm, and the second side mount bracket further includes a second brace extending rearward from the second support arm and engaging the wall mount bracket to support the second support arm. In one aspect, the first brace is fixedly connected to the first support arm and has a first free end abutting the wall mount bracket, and the second brace is fixedly connected to the second support arm and has a second free end abutting the wall mount bracket. In another aspect, the first base, the first support arm, and the first brace are formed of a first single, integral piece, and wherein the second base, the second support arm, and the second brace are formed of a second single, integral piece.

According to yet another aspect, the first base and the first support arm are formed of a first single, integral piece having a first bend forming a first juncture between the first base and the first support arm, and wherein the second base and the second support arm are formed of a second single, integral piece having a second bend forming a second juncture between the second base and the second support arm.

In other aspects, the weightlifting rack assembly includes a first side mount bracket having a first base connected to the wall mount bracket at a first location and a first support arm extending outward from the first base and a second side mount bracket having a second base connected to the wall mount bracket at a second location laterally spaced from the first location and a second support arm extending outward from the second base, and a bar connected to the first support arm of the first side mount bracket and connected to the second support arm of the second side mount bracket and extending between the first and second side mount brackets in the lateral direction. The first base and the first support arm are formed of a first single, integral piece having a first bend forming a first juncture between the first base and the first support arm, and the second base and the second support arm are formed of a second single, integral piece having a second bend forming a second juncture between the second base and the second support arm. The wall mount bracket is configured to suspend the weightlifting rack assembly above a ground surface, such that the weightlifting rack assembly does not engage the ground surface. The weightlifting rack assembly in this configuration may be suited for use as a pull-up bar.

According to one aspect, the first side mount bracket further includes a first receiver connected to the first support arm, and the second side mount bracket further includes a second receiver connected to the second support arm, and the bar is received in the first and second receivers to connect the bar to the first and second side mount brackets. In one configuration, the first receiver and the second receiver are formed by separate pieces connected to the first and second support arms, respectively.

The first side mount bracket further includes a first brace extending rearward from the first support arm and engaging the wall mount bracket to support the first support arm, and the second side mount bracket further includes a second brace extending rearward from the second support arm and engaging the wall mount bracket to support the second support arm. In one aspect, the first brace is fixedly connected to the first support arm and has a first free end abutting the wall mount bracket, and the second brace is fixedly connected to the second support arm and has a second free end abutting the wall mount bracket. In another aspect, the first brace is further formed as part of the first single, integral piece, and wherein the second brace is further formed as part of the second single, integral piece.

According to a further aspect, the first support arm extends outwardly and downwardly from the first base, and the second support arm extends outwardly and downwardly from the second base. In one aspect, the first support arm has a first distal end that extends below a lowermost point of the wall mount bracket, and the second support arm has a second distal end that extends below the lowermost point of the wall mount bracket.

In further aspects, the weightlifting rack assembly is a fixed weightlifting rack assembly that includes a first side rack assembly, a second side rack assembly, and a cross-member connected to the first side rack assembly and the second side rack assembly and extending along the lateral width of the wall mount bracket between the first and second side rack assemblies. The first side rack assembly includes a first side mount bracket connected to the first mounting region of the wall mount bracket, a first beam connected to the first side mount bracket and extending outward from the first side mount bracket in a first direction configured to be perpendicular to the wall surface, and a first vertical frame member connected to the first beam and configured to engage a ground surface. The second side rack assembly includes a second side mount bracket connected to the second mounting region of the central panel, a second beam connected to the second side mount bracket and extending outward from the second side mount bracket in the first direction, and a second vertical frame member connected to the second beam and configured to engage the ground surface, such that the first and second vertical frame members are spaced outwardly from the wall mount bracket.

According to one aspect, the first side rack assembly further includes a third beam connected to the first side mount bracket and extending outward from the first side mount bracket in the first direction, where the third beam is connected to the first vertical frame member and located below the first beam, and the second side rack assembly further includes a fourth beam connected to the second side mount bracket and extending outward from the second side mount bracket in the first direction, where the fourth beam is connected to the second vertical frame member and located below the second beam. In one aspect, the first side mount bracket has a first opening and a third opening spaced vertically from each other and receiving ends of the first and third beams, respectively, and the second side mount bracket has a second opening and a fourth opening spaced vertically from each other and receiving ends of the second and fourth beams, respectively. In another aspect, the first side rack assembly further has a first vertical support extending vertically between the first and third beams at a location between the wall mount bracket and the first vertical frame member, and the second side rack assembly further has a second vertical support extending vertically between the second and fourth beams at a location between the wall mount bracket and the second vertical frame member. In a further aspect, no additional supporting structure is connected to the first vertical frame member or the second vertical frame member and configured to be positioned between the first and second vertical frame members and the wall surface.

According to another aspect, the first side mount bracket is vertically elongated and is connected to the wall mount bracket by a plurality of first fasteners aligned vertically with each other along the first side mount bracket, and the second side mount bracket is vertically elongated and is connected to the wall mount bracket by a plurality of second fasteners aligned vertically with each other along the second side mount bracket. In one aspect, the first side rack assembly further includes a third beam connected to the first side mount bracket and extending outward from the first side mount bracket in the first direction to connect to the first vertical frame member, and the second side rack assembly further includes a fourth beam connected to the second side mount bracket and extending outward from the second side mount bracket in the first direction to connect to the second vertical frame member. In this configuration, the third beam is located below the first beam, such that the first beam, the third beam, and the first plurality of fasteners are all aligned vertically with each other along the first side mount bracket, and the fourth beam is located below the second beam, such that the second beam, the fourth beam, and the second plurality of fasteners are all aligned vertically with each other along the second side mount bracket.

In still further aspects, the weightlifting rack assembly is a fixed weightlifting rack assembly that includes a first side rack assembly, a second side rack assembly, and a cross-member connected to the first side rack assembly and the second side rack assembly and extending laterally between the first and second side rack assemblies. The first side rack assembly includes a first side mount bracket connected to the wall mount bracket, a first beam and a third beam each having a proximal end connected to the first side mount bracket and extending outward from the first side mount bracket in the first direction, where the third beam is located below the first beam and extends parallel to the first beam, and a first vertical frame member connected to distal ends of the first beam and the third beam and configured to engage a ground surface, where the first vertical frame member is spaced outwardly from the wall mount bracket. The second side rack assembly includes a second side mount bracket connected to the wall mount bracket, a second beam and a fourth beam each having a proximal end connected to the second side mount bracket and extending outward from the second side mount bracket in the first direction, where the fourth beam is located below the second beam and extends parallel to the second beam, and a second vertical frame member connected to distal ends of the second beam and the fourth beam and configured to engage the ground surface, where the second vertical frame member is spaced outwardly from the wall mount bracket.

According to one aspect, the first side mount bracket has a first opening and a third opening spaced vertically from each other and receiving the proximal ends of the first and third beams, respectively, and the second side mount bracket has a second opening and a fourth opening spaced vertically from each other and receiving the proximal ends of the second and fourth beams, respectively.

According to another aspect, no additional supporting structure is connected to the first vertical frame member or the second vertical frame member and configured to be positioned between the first and second vertical frame members and the wall surface.

According to a further aspect, the first side mount bracket is vertically elongated and is connected to the wall mount bracket by a plurality of first fasteners aligned vertically with each other along the first side mount bracket, and the second side mount bracket is vertically elongated and is connected to the wall mount bracket by a plurality of second fasteners aligned vertically with each other along the second side mount bracket. In one aspect, the first plurality of fasteners are all aligned vertically with each other along the first side mount bracket, and wherein the second beam, the fourth beam, and the second plurality of fasteners are all aligned vertically with each other along the second side mount bracket.

Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the attached drawings.

The disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein:.

While this disclosure is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail a specific embodiment(s) with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification and is not intended to be limited to the embodiment(s) illustrated.

It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or components, referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations, and some of the components may have been distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.

Referring now to the drawings and in particular to <FIG> and <FIG>, a foldable weightlifting rack assembly <NUM> is shown configured for mounting on a wall surface <NUM>. The weightlifting rack <NUM> comprises an upper rack mount assembly <NUM>, lower rack mount assembly <NUM>, first side rack assembly <NUM>, second side rack assembly <NUM>, and cross bar assembly <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the cross bar assembly <NUM> couples the first side rack assembly <NUM> and second side rack assembly <NUM>. Removal of the cross bar assembly <NUM>, as well as the pin members that are extended therethrough, allows rotational movement of the first side rack assembly <NUM> and second side rack assembly <NUM> to direct the first and second side rack assemblies between a folded and an articulated configuration. The folded configuration is illustrated in <FIG>, while the articulated configuration is illustrated in <FIG>.

Shown in <FIG>, the upper rack mount assembly <NUM> comprises upper wall mount bracket <NUM>, first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, wall mount fasteners <NUM>, pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>, and pivot pins <NUM>. The upper wall mount bracket <NUM> comprises a first side end <NUM>, second side end <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central panel <NUM>, top wall mount panel <NUM>, bottom wall mount panel <NUM>, first offset panels <NUM>, and second offset panels <NUM>. Further, the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> define a plurality of slots <NUM>, <NUM> extending substantially through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM>. The central panel <NUM> further comprises first side mounting region <NUM>, second side mounting region <NUM>, first side handle openings <NUM> and second side handle openings <NUM>, with the first side mounting region <NUM> and second side mounting region <NUM> both defining a plurality of openings <NUM>, <NUM> extending substantially through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM>. It is contemplated that the upper wall mount bracket (as well as the lower wall mount bracket) are formed from a single material, wherein the various panels have substantially the same thickness therethrough. As used herein with respect to all embodiments, the "vertical" direction refers to the direction that is parallel to the wall surface <NUM> and perpendicular to the ground, i.e., in the direction of spacing between the upper and lower rack mount assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>; the "horizontal" direction refers to the direction that is parallel to the wall surface <NUM> and parallel to the ground, i.e., in the direction of spacing between the first and second ends <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>; and the "longitudinal" direction refers to the direction that is perpendicular to the wall surface <NUM> and parallel to the ground, i.e., in the direction of spacing between the outer and inner surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>.

The first end <NUM> and second end <NUM> are substantially opposite one another with the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> extending substantially between each end. The outer surface <NUM> and inner surface are substantially opposite one another in reference to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> facing substantially opposite the inner surface <NUM>. The first side mounting region <NUM> of the central panel is proximate to the first side end <NUM> and the second side mounting region <NUM> of the central panel <NUM> is proximate to the second side end <NUM>. Openings <NUM> of the first side mounting region <NUM>, in the configuration shown, are separated by a general amount of material along the central panel <NUM>, being proximate to the first side end <NUM> generally more than the first side handle opening <NUM>. Openings <NUM> of the second side mounting region <NUM>, in the configuration shown, are separated by a general amount of material along the central panel <NUM>, being proximate to the second side end <NUM> generally more than the second side handle opening <NUM>. The first side handle opening <NUM> and the second side handle opening <NUM> extend generally through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> and are proximate to the central axis of the upper rack mount assembly <NUM>. The first and second side handle openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the disclosure of <FIG> are located entirely within the central panel <NUM>, between the first and second side mounting regions <NUM>, <NUM>, and between the first and second offset panels <NUM>, <NUM>. It is to be understood the size of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>, the first side handle opening <NUM>, and second side handle opening <NUM> as well as the distance of separation between them along the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> in the exemplary figure are variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

The central panel <NUM>, top wall mount panel <NUM>, and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> extend from the first side end <NUM> to the second side end <NUM> and are parallel in reference to one another. In the configuration shown, the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are substantially coplanar in reference to one another such that a suitably flat surface mated to the inner surface <NUM> of the top wall mount panel <NUM> will be substantially mated to the inner surface <NUM> of the bottom wall mount panel <NUM>. In the vertical plane, the central panel is substantially between the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall panel <NUM>, with the bottom wall mount panel substantially beneath the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM>. In the configuration shown, the plurality of slots <NUM> defined by the top wall mount panel <NUM> and the plurality of the slots <NUM> defined by the bottom wall mount panel <NUM> extend from first end <NUM> towards second end <NUM>. It is to be understood the number of slots <NUM>, <NUM> and the sizing in reference to the horizontal and vertical distance are variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

The central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM> are coupled through the first offset panel <NUM>. In the configuration shown, the first offset panel <NUM> is oblique to each of the parallel surface of the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM>. It is to be understood the angle of offset of the first offset panel <NUM> may be of any suitable amount such that the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM> are separated with reference to the horizontal plane. The central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are coupled through the second offset panel <NUM>. In the configuration shown, the second offset panel <NUM> is oblique to each of the central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM>. The first and second offset panels <NUM>, <NUM>, as well as the junctures between the offset panels <NUM>, <NUM> and the central panel <NUM> and the top and bottom wall mount panels <NUM>, <NUM>, extend the entire width of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>, i.e., between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. It is to be understood in contemplated configurations of the design, the angle of offset of the second offset panel <NUM> may be of any suitable amount such that the central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are separated with reference to the horizontal plane, including the central panel <NUM> being moved in such a way that the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are switched in reference to the horizontal plane. The offset panels <NUM>, <NUM> create an offset between the central panel <NUM> and the top and bottom wall mount panels <NUM>, <NUM>, which defines a space <NUM> between the central panel <NUM> and the wall surface <NUM>. This space <NUM> extends the entire distance between the ends <NUM>, <NUM> in some cases.

The side handle openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> may also be used for mounting of one or more accessories. Such accessories may be mounted using various mechanical engagement structures for engaging one or more edges of the side handle openings <NUM>, <NUM>, such as hooks, clamps, jaws, flanges, tabs, or other such structures, which may be fixed or moveable (e.g., lockable and/or releasable). <FIG> illustrates one example of an accessory in the form of a hook accessory <NUM>, which includes a mounting hook <NUM> at one end configured to receive a portion of the edge of the side handle opening <NUM> for mounting the hook accessory <NUM> and a support hook <NUM> at the other end configured to support another accessory or device. The body of the hook accessory <NUM> is contoured similarly to the surface of the wall mount bracket <NUM> and generally extends in surface-to-surface contact with portions of the central panel <NUM>, the second offset panel <NUM>, and the bottom wall mount panel <NUM> located below the side handle opening <NUM>. The mounting structure in <FIG> (i.e., mounting hook <NUM>) may be used with other accessories as well. It is understood that such accessories may be used similarly in connection with other embodiments disclosed herein.

The first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, comprises base <NUM>, upper pivot wall <NUM>, and lower pivot wall <NUM>. The base <NUM> comprise outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central region <NUM>, first side wing region <NUM>, second side wing region <NUM>, first side mounting opening <NUM>, and second side mounting opening <NUM>. The upper pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the base <NUM> connects the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> through extension of the central region <NUM>. In the exemplary figure, the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally parallel in reference to one another, while other configurations are contemplated.

The inner surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> is generally mated to the outer surface <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> generally opposite the inner surface <NUM>. Generally, the base <NUM> extends from first side wing region <NUM>, through central region <NUM>, and to the second side wing region <NUM>. The first side wing region <NUM> defines opening first side mounting opening <NUM> and the second side wing region <NUM> defines opening second side mounting opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the wing regions of the base <NUM> are connected to the central region <NUM> of the base. The mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> are coaxially aligned with the openings <NUM> of the first side mounting region <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>. It is to be understood any alteration of the position of the openings <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket is to be substantially similar to alterations in the positions of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the configuration shown are of a variable size that is subject to change in contemplated configurations.

The inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM> of the upper pivot wall <NUM> are generally opposite one another with pivot opening <NUM> defined by the upper pivot wall <NUM> and extending through the inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM> of the lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally opposite one another with pivot opening <NUM> defined by the lower pivot wall <NUM> and extending through the inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> of upper pivot wall <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> of the lower pivot wall <NUM> generally face one another in such a way the corresponding outer surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> face opposite in reference to one another. The pivot openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally coaxial in reference to one another. It is to be understood the sizing of the openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the exemplary figure is variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

The second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, comprise base <NUM>, upper pivot wall <NUM>, and lower pivot wall <NUM>. The base <NUM> comprise outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central region <NUM>, first side wing region <NUM>, second side wing region <NUM>, first side mounting opening <NUM>, and second side mounting opening <NUM>. The upper pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the base <NUM> connects the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> through extension of the central region <NUM>. In the exemplary figure, the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally parallel in reference to one another, but is subject to change in contemplated configurations and future iterations of the design.

The inner surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> is mated to the outer surface <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> generally opposite the inner surface <NUM>. Generally, the base <NUM> extends from first side wing region <NUM>, through central region <NUM>, and to the second side wing region <NUM>. The first side wing region <NUM> defines opening first side mounting opening <NUM> and the second side wing region <NUM> defines opening second side mounting opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the wing regions of the base <NUM> are connected to the central region <NUM> of the base. The mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> are coaxially aligned with the openings <NUM> of the second side mounting region <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>. It is to be understood any alteration of the position of the openings <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket is to be substantially similar to alterations in the positions of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the exemplary figure are of a variable size that is subject to change in contemplated configurations.

The inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM> of the upper pivot wall <NUM> are generally opposite one another with pivot opening <NUM> defined by the upper pivot wall <NUM> and extending through the inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM> of the lower pivot wall <NUM> are opposite one another with pivot opening <NUM> defined by the lower pivot wall <NUM> and extending through the inner surface <NUM> and outer surface <NUM>. The inner surface <NUM> of upper pivot wall <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> of the lower pivot wall <NUM> generally face one another in such a way the corresponding outer surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> face opposite in reference to one another. The pivot openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally coaxial in reference to one another. It is to be understood the sizing of the openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the exemplary figure is variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

Shown in <FIG>, mounting and assembly of the upper rock mount assembly uses wall mount fasteners <NUM>, pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>, and pivot pins <NUM>. The upper wall mount bracket <NUM>, first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, and second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> in the exemplary figures are coupled together through pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>. The pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM> fit substantially and concentrically with the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper rack pivot brackets and the openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket. The first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> are generally aligned in reference to the vertical plan and separated along the horizontal plane by the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>.

In the configuration shown, the first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> mate to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> by the pivot bracket mount fasteners. In the exemplary figure, the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> is generally coupled to the wall surface <NUM> by wall mount fasteners <NUM>. The wall mount fasteners <NUM> couple the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> to wall surface <NUM> through slots <NUM>, <NUM> of the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> to the studs <NUM> of the wall surface <NUM>. It is to be understood the wall mount fasteners <NUM> are aligned in such a way to provide a substantial enough force to limit vertical and horizontal movement of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> while coupled to the wall surface <NUM>, additionally resisting external forces. Pivot pins <NUM> couple to the first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> through the pivot openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> to pivotably connect the first side rack assembly <NUM> and the second side rack assembly <NUM> to the first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, respectively. The pivot pins <NUM> are generally concentric to the openings and fit in such a way that rotational movement is not generally limited. The pivot pins <NUM> are vertically oriented and permit pivoting or rotational movement of the first and second side rack assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> parallel to the ground. It is to be understood the number of fasteners, as well as their sizing and method of attachment, used in the shown figures is exemplary and is subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

Shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the lower rack mount assembly <NUM> is substantially identical to the upper rack mount assembly <NUM>. As such, the same components have the same reference numbers augmented by <NUM>. In particular, the lower rack mount assembly comprises lower wall mount bracket <NUM>, first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>, second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>, wall mount fasteners <NUM>, pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>, and pivot pins <NUM>. The lower wall mount bracket <NUM> comprises a first side end <NUM>, second side end <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central panel <NUM>, top wall mount panel <NUM>, bottom wall mount panel <NUM>, first end offset panels <NUM>, and second offset panels <NUM>. Further, the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> define a plurality of slots <NUM>, <NUM> extending generally through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM>. The central panel <NUM> further comprises first side mounting region <NUM>, second side mounting region <NUM>, first side handle openings <NUM> and second side handle openings <NUM>, with the first side mounting region <NUM> and second side mounting region <NUM> both defining a plurality of openings <NUM>, <NUM> extending generally through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM>.

The first end <NUM> and second end <NUM> are generally opposite one another with the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> extending generally from and to each end. The outer surface <NUM> and inner surface are opposite one another in reference to the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> facing opposite the inner surface <NUM>. The first side mounting region <NUM> of the central panel is proximate to the first side end <NUM> and the second side mounting region <NUM> of the central panel <NUM> is proximate to the second side end <NUM>. Openings <NUM> of the first side mounting region <NUM>, in the configuration shown, are separated by a general amount of material along the central panel <NUM>, being proximate to the first side end <NUM> generally more than the first side handle opening <NUM>. Openings <NUM> of the second side mounting region <NUM>, in the configuration shown, are separated by a general amount of material along the central panel <NUM>, being proximate to the second side end <NUM> generally more than the second side handle opening <NUM>. The first side handle opening <NUM> and the second side handle opening <NUM> extend generally through the outer surface <NUM> and inner surface <NUM> and are proximate to the central axis of the lower rack mount assembly <NUM>. It is to be understood the size of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>, the first side handle opening <NUM>, and second side handle opening <NUM> as well as the distance of separation between them along the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> in the exemplary figure are variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

The central panel <NUM>, top wall mount panel <NUM>, and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> extend generally from the first side end <NUM> to the second side end <NUM> and are parallel in reference to one another. In the configuration shown, the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are coplanar in reference to one another such that a suitably flat surface mated to the inner surface <NUM> of the top wall mount panel <NUM> will be generally mated to the inner surface <NUM> of the bottom wall mount panel <NUM>. In the vertical plane, the central panel is generally between the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall panel <NUM>, with the bottom wall mount panel generally beneath the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM>. In the exemplary figure, the plurality of slots <NUM> defined by the top wall mount panel <NUM> and the plurality of the slots <NUM> defined by the bottom wall mount panel <NUM> extend from first end <NUM> towards second end <NUM>. It is to be understood the number of slots <NUM>, <NUM> and the sizing in reference to the horizontal and vertical distance are variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design.

The central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM> are coupled through the first offset panel <NUM>. In the configuration shown, the first offset panel <NUM> is oblique to the parallel surface of the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM>. It is to be understood the angle of offset of the first offset panel <NUM> may be of any suitable amount such that the central panel <NUM> and top wall mount panel <NUM> are generally separated with reference to the horizontal plane. The central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are coupled through the second offset panel <NUM>. In the configuration shown, the second offset panel <NUM> is oblique to the parallel surface of the central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM>. The first and second offset panels <NUM>, <NUM>, as well as the junctures between the offset panels <NUM>, <NUM> and the central panel <NUM> and the top and bottom wall mount panels <NUM>, <NUM>, extend the entire width of the bottom wall mount bracket <NUM>, i.e., between the first end <NUM> and the second end <NUM>. It is to be understood in contemplated configurations of the design, the angle of offset of the second offset panel <NUM> may be of any suitable amount such that the central panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are generally separated with reference to the horizontal plane, including the central panel <NUM> being moved in such a way that the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> are switched in reference to the horizontal plane.

The first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, comprise base <NUM>, upper pivot wall <NUM>, and lower pivot wall <NUM>. The base <NUM> comprise outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central region <NUM>, first side wing region <NUM>, second side wing region <NUM>, first side mounting opening <NUM>, and second side mounting opening <NUM>. The upper pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the base <NUM> connects the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> through extension of the central region <NUM>. In the exemplary figure, the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally parallel in reference to one another, but is subject to change in contemplated configurations and future iterations of the design.

The inner surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> is mated to the outer surface <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> generally opposite the inner surface <NUM>. Generally, the base <NUM> extends from first side wing region <NUM>, through central region <NUM>, and to the second side wing region <NUM>. The first side wing region <NUM> defines opening first side mounting opening <NUM> and the second side wing region <NUM> defines opening second side mounting opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the wing regions of the base <NUM> are connected to the central region <NUM> of the base. The mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> are generally coaxially aligned with the openings <NUM> of the first side mounting region <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM>. It is to be understood any alteration of the position of the openings <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> is to be generally similar to alterations in the positions of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the exemplary figure are of a variable size that is subject to change in contemplated configurations.

The second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, is substantially identical to each one of the rack pivot brackets, and, generally comprises base <NUM>, upper pivot wall <NUM>, and lower pivot wall <NUM>. The base <NUM> comprise outer surface <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, central region <NUM>, first side wing region <NUM>, second side wing region <NUM>, first side mounting opening <NUM>, and second side mounting opening <NUM>. The upper pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower pivot wall <NUM> comprise inner surface <NUM>, outer surface <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the base <NUM> connects the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> through extension of the central region <NUM>. In the exemplary figure, the upper pivot wall <NUM> and lower pivot wall <NUM> are generally parallel in reference to one another, but is subject to change in contemplated configurations and future iterations of the design.

The inner surface <NUM> of the base <NUM> is mated to the outer surface <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> with the outer surface <NUM> generally opposite the inner surface <NUM>. Generally, the base <NUM> extends from first side wing region <NUM>, through central region <NUM>, and to the second side wing region <NUM>. The first side wing region <NUM> defines opening first side mounting opening <NUM> and the second side wing region <NUM> defines opening second side mounting opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the wing regions of the base <NUM> are connected to the central region <NUM> of the base. The mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> are generally coaxially aligned with the openings <NUM> of the second side mounting region <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM>. It is to be understood any alteration of the position of the openings <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> is to be generally similar to alterations in the positions of the openings <NUM>, <NUM>. Further, the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the exemplary figure are of a variable size that is subject to change in contemplated configurations.

Shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, mounting and assembly of the lower rack mount assembly uses wall mount fasteners <NUM>, pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>, and pivot pins <NUM>. The lower wall mount bracket <NUM>, first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>, and second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> in the exemplary figures are coupled together through pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>. The pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM> fit concentrically with the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the lower rack pivot brackets and the openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM>. The first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> are generally aligned in reference to the vertical plan and separated along the horizontal plane by the lower wall mount bracket <NUM>.

In the configuration shown, the first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> mate to the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> by the pivot bracket mount fasteners. In the configuration shown, the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> is coupled to the wall surface <NUM> by wall mount fasteners <NUM>. The wall mount fasteners <NUM> couple the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> to wall surface <NUM> through slots <NUM>, <NUM> of the top wall mount panel <NUM> and bottom wall mount panel <NUM> to the studs <NUM> of the wall surface <NUM>. It is to be understood the wall mount fasteners <NUM> are aligned in such a way to provide enough force to limit vertical and horizontal movement of the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> whilst coupled to the wall surface <NUM>, additionally resisting external forces. Pivot pins <NUM> couple to the first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> and second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM> through the pivot openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The pivot pins <NUM> are generally concentric to the openings and fit in such a way that rotational movement is not substantially limited, but vertical and horizontal movement is. The pivot pins <NUM> associated with the lower wall mount bracket <NUM> are configured similarly to the pivot pins <NUM> associated with the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> described herein. It is to be understood the number of fasteners, as well as their sizing and method of attachment, used in the shown figures is exemplary and is subject to change in contemplated configurations of the design. In each of the upper and lower wall mount brackets, the offset central panel <NUM>, <NUM> is spaced apart from the underlying wall surface <NUM> so as to allow for suitable fasteners <NUM> to be used to couple the pivot brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> thereto, e.g., by the fasteners <NUM> being received through the mounting openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and the openings <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate the clearance provided to the fasteners <NUM> by this offset.

Shown in <FIG>, the first side rack assembly <NUM> comprises a main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM>. The main bar comprises upper end <NUM>, lower end <NUM>, and openings <NUM>. The upper cross bar <NUM> comprises proximal end <NUM>, distal end <NUM>, front flange <NUM>, openings <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower cross bar <NUM> comprises proximal end <NUM>, distal end <NUM>, front flange <NUM>, openings <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM> are have square, rectangular, or other generally similarly shaped cross-sections. In the exemplary configuration, the main bar <NUM> is generally perpendicular in relation to the upper cross bar <NUM> and lower cross bar <NUM>. Further, the upper cross bar <NUM> is generally parallel to the lower cross bar <NUM>. It is to be understood by those with sufficient skill in the art that the bars present may be solid bars or shells of appropriately stiff materials, such as metal alloys. In the exemplary figure, the thickness of the metal is isometric throughout the extension of the bar systems, but it is contemplated to change in future iterations of the device. Further, the length of the main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM> are variable and subject to change in future iterations of the device.

The upper end <NUM> and lower end <NUM> of the main bar <NUM> are generally opposite one another with the main bar extended the distance between both ends. The openings <NUM> are defined by main bar <NUM> and extend generally through both the front, back, and opposing sides of the main bar <NUM>. The upper cross bar <NUM> has proximal end <NUM> proximal to the wall surface <NUM> and distal end <NUM> proximal to the main bar <NUM> while being generally opposite one another in relation to the upper cross bar <NUM>. The front flange <NUM> is on distal end <NUM> of the upper cross bar and mates to the main bar <NUM>. The extension of the flange is variable and subject to alteration in future iterations of the device. Openings <NUM> are defined by upper cross bar <NUM> and extend generally through both the front, back, and opposing sides of the upper cross bar <NUM>, with the pivot opening <NUM> extending through the proximal end <NUM> along the vertical plane of the upper cross bar <NUM>. The lower cross bar <NUM> has proximal end <NUM> proximal to the wall surface <NUM> and distal end <NUM> proximal to the main bar <NUM> while being generally opposite one another in relation to the lower cross bar <NUM>. The front flange <NUM> is on distal end <NUM> of the lower cross bar and mates to the main bar <NUM>. The extension of the flange is variable and subject to alteration in future iterations of the device. Openings <NUM> are defined by lower cross bar <NUM> and extend generally through both the front, back, and opposing sides of the lower cross bar <NUM>, with the pivot opening <NUM> extending through the proximal end <NUM> along the vertical plane of the lower cross bar <NUM>. It is to be understood the number of openings, as well as their size, is variable and subject to change in contemplated configurations.

Shown in <FIG>, the second side rack assembly <NUM> is a substantial mirror image of the first side rack assembly, and comprises a main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM>. The main bar comprises upper end <NUM>, lower end <NUM>, and openings <NUM>. The upper cross bar <NUM> comprises proximal end <NUM>, distal end <NUM>, front flange <NUM>, openings <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. The lower cross bar <NUM> comprises proximal end <NUM>, distal end <NUM>, front flange <NUM>, openings <NUM>, and pivot opening <NUM>. It is to be understood the main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM> are have square, rectangular, or other generally similarly shaped cross-sections. In the exemplary configuration, the main bar <NUM> is generally perpendicular in relation to the upper cross bar <NUM> and lower cross bar <NUM>. Further, the upper cross bar <NUM> is generally parallel to the lower cross bar <NUM>. It is to be understood by those with sufficient skill in the art that the bars present may be solid bars or shells of appropriately stiff materials, such as metal alloys. In the exemplary figure, the thickness of the metal is isometric throughout the extension of the bar systems, but it is contemplated to change in future iterations of the device. Further, the length of the main bar <NUM>, upper cross bar <NUM>, and lower cross bar <NUM> are variable and subject to change in future iterations of the device.

With each of the first and second side rack assemblies, a pin may be inserted through the proximal end of the upper and lower cross bars and through the pivot brackets to rotationally lock the two structures together, and to generally preclude any substantial rotative relative movement. Such pins may be configured to be removably slidable through corresponding openings in each of the structures.

The cross bar assembly <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, comprises central bar portion <NUM>, first side rack coupling <NUM>, second side rack coupling <NUM>, first pin member <NUM>, and second pin member <NUM>. The central bar portion <NUM> comprises first end <NUM> and second end <NUM>, the first side rack coupling <NUM> comprises outward channel <NUM> and pin openings <NUM>, the second side rack coupling <NUM> comprises outwards channel <NUM> and pin openings <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of the central bar portion <NUM> is proximal to the first side rack assembly <NUM> and the second end <NUM> of the central bar portion <NUM> is proximal to the second side rack assembly <NUM>. The outward channel <NUM> of the first side rack coupling <NUM> extends and generally surrounds the first side rack assembly <NUM>. The pin openings <NUM> are defined by the outwards channel <NUM> and are axially aligned with openings along the first side rack assembly <NUM>. The outward channel <NUM> of the second side rack coupling <NUM> extends and generally surrounds the second side rack assembly <NUM>. The pin openings <NUM> are defined by the outwards channel <NUM> and are axially aligned with openings along the second side rack assembly <NUM>. The first pin member <NUM> is a pin of suitable size to extend through pin openings <NUM> of the first side rack coupling and openings of the first side rack assembly <NUM>. The first pin member <NUM> is known to be generally axially aligned with openings and generally prevent vertical and horizontal motion. The second pin member <NUM> is a pin of suitable size to extend through pin openings <NUM> of the second side rack coupling and openings of the second side rack assembly <NUM>. The second pin member <NUM> is known to be generally axially aligned with openings and generally prevent vertical and horizontal motion. It is contemplated in future configurations of the device that the number of openings and pins, and size therein, are variable and are subject to change.

Described herein is a method for assembly of the foldable weightlifting rack assembly to the exemplary system shown. The method, order, and tools necessary for assembly of the weightlifting rack are contemplated to vary in various configurations, depending upon size, weight, and materials used to construct and hold the metal bars and brackets in place. For example, heavier structures may use similar components, but may involve a greater number of wall mounting fasteners and slots thereto.

Assembly may begin through identifying the studs <NUM> beneath the wall surface <NUM> and lining with the upper wall mount bracket <NUM>. The plurality of slots <NUM>, <NUM> of the upper wall mount bracket, including length of slots between first send end <NUM> and second side end <NUM>, allow for a range of stud <NUM> distances to be used. Holes may be pre-drilled into the wall surface <NUM> into the studs <NUM>. These drill holes are to be done both an appropriate number of times along the upper end of the studs <NUM> but also the lower end to a distance generally similar to the main bars <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second side rack assembly. It is recommended to use the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> to mark the necessary locations before drilling.

During the time of drilling the holes, the first side upper rack pivot brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and second side rack pivot brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are appropriately coupled to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> and lower wall mount bracket <NUM>. The mounting openings of the rack pivot brackets are generally aligned axially to the openings of the appropriate wall mount brackets. The pivot bracket mount fasteners <NUM>, <NUM> are used to couple the brackets together, in a manner that may include, but is not limited to, screwing, bolting, adhesive attachment, or other such methods of pin coupling, and preferably through the use of bolts and nuts, as is shown. It will be understood that multiple pairs or groups of openings may be provided to alter the spacing, for example, to make the upper wall mount bracket usable with differently sized rack assemblies (i.e., wherein, for example, the generally square/rectangular tubing of the rack assemblies have different cross-sectional dimensions).

Following, the upper rack mount assembly <NUM> is position over the pre-drilled holes in the wall surface, with the wall mount fasteners inserted in such a way they are suitably able to hold the mount assembly along the wall. At this time, a leveling tool may be used to ensure the extension of the wall mounting assembly is generally parallel in reference to the ground. When satisfied, the wall mount fasteners <NUM> may be tightened into the wall surface <NUM> and studs <NUM>. The same process is repeated for the lower rack mount assembly <NUM>, with the additional step of ensuring the brackets, ends and appropriate holes are sufficiently aligned in reference to the horizontal plane.

The first side rack assembly <NUM> and second side rack assembly <NUM> are assembled separated from the upper and lower rack mount assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. The upper cross bar <NUM> and lower cross bar <NUM> are coupled to the main bar <NUM> through the appropriate front flange <NUM>, <NUM> and fasteners extending therebetween.

The first side rack assembly <NUM> and second side rack assembly <NUM> are lifted towards the upper and lower rack mount assembly <NUM>, <NUM> in such a way that the proximal ends <NUM>, <NUM> are proximal to the wall surface and rack mount assemblies. These proximal ends are fitted into the rack pivot brackets appropriately. That is to say, for the first side rack assembly <NUM>, the proximal end <NUM> of the upper cross bar <NUM> is fitted to the first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM> of the lower cross bar <NUM> is fitted to the first side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>. Then further, the second side rack assembly <NUM>, the proximal end <NUM> of the upper cross bar <NUM> is fitted to the second side upper rack pivot <NUM> and the proximal end <NUM> of the lower cross bar <NUM> is fitted to the second side lower rack pivot bracket <NUM>. Once the bars are appropriately placed within the pivot brackets, pivot pins <NUM>, <NUM> are placed vertically through the pivot openings of the brackets and the cross bars. This couples the rack assemblies to the wall mount assemblies in such a way to generally prevent the horizontal and vertical motion of the rack assemblies in relation to the wall surface <NUM>, but allowing a suitable amount of rotational movement about the pivot pins <NUM>, <NUM>. As described above, the rack assembly <NUM> may be moved between an articulated configuration as shown in <FIG> and a folded configuration as shown in <FIG>, by pivoting the first and second side rack assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> toward the wall surface <NUM>. <FIG> show the first and second side rack assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> both pivoted toward each other (i.e., inward) to place the rack assembly <NUM> in the folded configuration, and it is understood that one or both of the first and second side rack assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> may be pivoted away from the other (i.e., outward) in other configurations. Additionally, locking pins <NUM> may be inserted in additional corresponding locking pin openings <NUM> to engage the first side rack assembly <NUM> and the first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and also to engage with the second side rack assembly <NUM> and the second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM>, so as to limit relative rotational movement between. These locking pins <NUM> generally define an axis that is substantially parallel to that of the pivot pins <NUM>, and spaced therefrom. The first side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> and the second side upper rack pivot bracket <NUM> each have three different pairs of locking pin openings <NUM> to receive the locking pins <NUM>, allowing the first and second side rack assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> to be locked in three different positions. The locking pins <NUM> may be cotter pins or other pins with a releasable retaining structure in some cases. The locking pins <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG> are received in locking pin openings <NUM> to abut the ends of the cross members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, but may be received in the locking pin openings <NUM> on the opposite sides of the pivot brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to be received through holes in the cross members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, as similarly shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The cross bar assembly <NUM> may be attached when the rack assemblies are positioned in a suitable manner, fitting over the first end of the main bars to each assembly. The cross bar assembly <NUM> may be further secured to the assemblies through first pin member into openings of the main bar of the first assembly and the second pin member into openings of the main bar of the second assembly, both going through the appropriate side rack coupling portions. This coupling secures the cross bar assembly <NUM> to the first side rack assembly <NUM> and second side rack assembly <NUM>. The user can use the cross bar for chin-ups, pull-ups and the like. Additionally, the cross bar maintains the desired fixed orientation of the main bars so as to limit shearing forces on the pins and so as to maintain relative position, even with heavier weights.

When disengaging the foldable weightlifting bar assembly <NUM>, the cross bar assembly <NUM> is decoupled from the side assemblies by unlocking pin members and removing the bar assembly. Additionally, any pins locking the pivot brackets to the upper and lower cross bars are removed, to permit relative rotation therebetween. Once removed, the first side and second side bar assemblies may be rotated towards the wall rack mount assembly while the main bar of either sides become more proximal to one another. This folding and rotation about the pivot pins <NUM>, <NUM> collapses the first and second side bar assemblies of the weight lifting rack assembly <NUM> and reduces the amount of area occupied by the device.

The upper and lower wall mount brackets allow for the mounting of the foldable weightlifting bar assembly on a wall in multiple positions, and generally does not require additional structures to be built or added to the wall surface (such as horizontal studs or the like). Thus, a more compact and less intrusive structure is permitted. Additionally, the upper and lower wall mount brackets allow for the variable position of the foldable weightlifting bar assembly on the wall, without being limited to particular and discrete positions based on the underlying position of the studs. Therefore, not only can the assembly be positioned in more locations, but will generally maintain as compact of a configuration when folded as possible.

<FIG> illustrate an embodiment of a weightlifting rack assembly <NUM> according to the invention that is configured for mounting to a wall surface <NUM>. The rack assembly <NUM> uses a wall mount bracket <NUM> that is configured similar to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <NUM>-<NUM>. For the sake of brevity, the shared components and features of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> already described herein will not be re-described herein in detail, and the same reference numbers will be used in describing the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. The wall mount bracket <NUM> in <FIG> will therefore be described primarily with respect to the differences between the wall mount bracket <NUM> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG>. For example, one difference is that the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> has three slots <NUM> in the top wall mount panel <NUM> three slots <NUM> in the bottom wall mount panel <NUM>, while the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> has four of each of such slots <NUM>, <NUM>. It is noted that the single mount bracket <NUM> enables the rack assembly <NUM> of <FIG> to be mounted on a wall surface <NUM> above a doorway <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

The rack assembly <NUM> in <FIG> is configured for use as a fixed pull-up bar, and includes a first side mount bracket <NUM>, a second side mount bracket <NUM>, and a bar <NUM> connected to the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and extending between the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. Each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> includes a base <NUM> configured for connection to the wall mount bracket <NUM> and a support arm <NUM> extending outward from the base <NUM> to support the bar <NUM>. The base <NUM> is formed as a rectangular plate in the embodiment of <FIG>, but may be formed of a differently shaped plate or another structure in other embodiments. The first side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the first side mounting region <NUM> and the second side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the second side mounting region <NUM> by fasteners <NUM> received through mounting openings <NUM> in the bases <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the central panel <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> (not shown) are positioned differently from the openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG>, which are vertically aligned with and horizontally spaced from each other. In the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG>, the openings <NUM>, <NUM> are offset and spaced from each other both vertically and horizontally, and the mounting openings <NUM> in the bases <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned similarly in order to align with the openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the wall mount bracket <NUM>.

The arms <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> each have a first end <NUM> connected to the base <NUM> and a second or distal end <NUM> having connecting structure for connection to the bar <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the arm <NUM> of each mount bracket <NUM>, <NUM> is formed of a single, integral piece (e.g., of metal plate) with the base <NUM>, and the juncture between the arm <NUM> and the base <NUM> is formed by a bend (e.g., <NUM>°) in the material of the mount bracket <NUM>, <NUM>. Each arm <NUM> extends outward from the respective base <NUM> as well as downward from the first end <NUM>, and in one embodiment, the second ends <NUM> of the arms <NUM> extend downward below the lowermost point of the wall mount bracket <NUM> (e.g., the bottom edge of the bottom wall mount panel <NUM>), as shown in <FIG>. The connecting structure of each arm <NUM> in the embodiment of <FIG> is in the form of a receiver <NUM> connected to the second end <NUM> of the arm <NUM> and configured to receive an end of the bar <NUM> therein. The receivers <NUM> in <FIG> are separate pieces connected to the arms <NUM>, such as by welding and/or fasteners, but may each be part of a single, integral piece with the corresponding arm <NUM> in another embodiment. The receivers <NUM> in this embodiment include set screws <NUM> (<FIG>) to engage the ends of the bar <NUM> and secure the bar <NUM> within the receivers <NUM>. Each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> in <FIG> also includes a brace <NUM> extending downward and rearward from the arm <NUM> and having a distal or free end <NUM> configured to engage a vertical surface (e.g., the wall mount bracket <NUM> or the wall surface <NUM>). The free ends <NUM> of the braces <NUM> in <FIG> abuttingly engage the bottom wall mount panel <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM>. These braces <NUM> provide support and rigidity to the arms <NUM> against cantilever bending forces exerted on the bar <NUM>. The braces <NUM> in <FIG> are also formed of part of the single, integral piece with the arms <NUM> and the bases <NUM> of the corresponding mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. It is understood that the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, including the bases <NUM>, the arms <NUM>, the connecting structure, and the braces <NUM>, may have different configurations in other embodiments. For example, in another embodiment, the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to support a different type of weightlifting equipment other than a pull-up bar <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a weightlifting rack assembly <NUM> that is configured for mounting to a wall surface <NUM>. The rack assembly <NUM> uses upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> that are configured similar or identical to the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>. For the sake of brevity, the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> in <FIG> will be described with reference to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>, and the shared components and features of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> already described herein will not be re-described herein in detail. The same reference numbers will be used in describing the wall mount brackets <NUM> of <FIG> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. The wall mount brackets <NUM> in <FIG> will therefore be described primarily with respect to the differences between the wall mount brackets <NUM> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. It is understood that while the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> of <FIG> are identical to each other, the rack assembly <NUM> may include upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> that are different from each other.

The rack assembly <NUM> in <FIG> is configured for use as a fixed weightlifting rack, and includes a first side mount bracket <NUM> and a second side mount bracket <NUM> connected to each of the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM>. The mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are configured for connection to a fixed weightlifting rack <NUM> to support the weightlifting rack <NUM> and fix the weightlifting rack <NUM> in position. Each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> includes a base <NUM> configured for connection to the wall mount brackets <NUM>, a beam <NUM> extending outward from the base <NUM>, and a connection end <NUM> configured for connection to the weightlifting rack <NUM>. The base <NUM> and the connection end <NUM> of each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> in <FIG> are each formed as a rectangular plate in theassembly of <FIG>, but may be formed of a differently shaped plate or another structure in other cases. Additionally, the rectangular shapes of the base <NUM> and the connection end <NUM> in <FIG> are elongated in perpendicular directions, such that the base <NUM> is elongated horizontally and the connection end <NUM> is elongated vertically. In some cases, the base <NUM> and the connection end <NUM> each have a plurality of openings <NUM> to receive fasteners <NUM> for connection to the wall mount brackets <NUM>. The base <NUM> has two openings <NUM> on opposite horizontal sides of the beam <NUM>, and the connection end <NUM> has two openings <NUM> on opposite vertical sides of the beam <NUM> in the disclosure of <FIG>. The first side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the first side mounting region <NUM> of the upper or lower wall mount bracket <NUM> and the second side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the second side mounting region <NUM> of the upper or lower wall mount bracket <NUM> by fasteners <NUM> received through the mounting openings <NUM> in the bases <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the central panel <NUM> of the respective wall mount bracket <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> of <FIG> are positioned similarly or identically to the openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG>, which are vertically aligned with and horizontally spaced from each other.

The weightlifting rack <NUM> is a fixed weightlifting rack that includes a frame <NUM> formed by a plurality of frame members <NUM> connected together and one or more articles of weightlifting equipment connected to the frame <NUM>. The frame <NUM> is configured to rest on the floor and support any such weightlifting structures, including any of the weightlifting structures shown and described elsewhere herein. The frame <NUM> may have various different forms, and as shown in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes at least a first vertical member <NUM> located toward the first ends <NUM> of the wall mount brackets <NUM> and a second vertical member <NUM> located toward the second ends <NUM> of the wall mount brackets <NUM>. The first and second vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> engage the ground and are also connected to and/or support other frame members <NUM>. At least some of the frame members <NUM> include a plurality of openings <NUM> for receiving fasteners for connection to other components. In <FIG>, all of the frame members <NUM>, including the first and second vertical members <NUM>, <NUM>, have a plurality of openings <NUM> distributed axially along the length of each of the frame members <NUM> and along all four sides of the frame members <NUM>. The frame <NUM> in <FIG> has two bars <NUM> connected between two longitudinally-extending frame members <NUM> using fasteners received in the openings <NUM>, and it is understood that other weightlifting equipment can be connected in the same or a similar manner.

The mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to the weightlifting rack <NUM> to anchor the weightlifting rack <NUM> to the wall and more securely support the weightlifting rack <NUM>. The connection end <NUM> of each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> in <FIG> is connected to one of the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> of the weightlifting rack <NUM> by fasteners <NUM> received through the openings <NUM> and openings <NUM> in the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM>. It is understood that the fasteners <NUM> connecting the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> to the wall mount brackets <NUM> and the fasteners <NUM> connecting the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> to the weightlifting rack <NUM> may be the same or different fasteners. As shown in <FIG>, both the upper and lower wall mount brackets <NUM> have a first side mount bracket <NUM> connecting the wall mount bracket <NUM> to the first vertical member <NUM> and a second side mount bracket <NUM> connecting the wall mount bracket <NUM> to the second vertical member <NUM>. In some cases, the first and/or second side mount brackets <NUM> may be configured for connection to a horizontal frame member <NUM> or for connection to multiple frame members <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrate a weightlifting rack assembly <NUM> that is configured for mounting to a wall surface <NUM>. The rack assembly <NUM> uses a wall mount bracket <NUM> that is configured similar in some respects to the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. For the sake of brevity, the shared components and features of the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> already described herein will not be re-described herein in detail, and the same reference numbers will be used in describing the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>. The wall mount bracket <NUM> in <FIG> will therefore be described primarily with respect to the differences between the wall mount bracket <NUM> and the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG>. For example, one difference is that the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> has a greater height (parallel to the wall), and the central panel <NUM> has mounting regions <NUM>, <NUM> that are configured for attachment to brackets <NUM>, <NUM> that are elongated vertically, e.g., by having holes <NUM>, <NUM> aligned horizontally and spaced vertically, while the upper wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> has a smaller height and vertically-aligned holes <NUM>, <NUM>. As another example, the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> has side handle openings <NUM> that have greater heights and/or smaller horizontal widths than the side handle openings <NUM>, <NUM> of the disclosure of <FIG>.

The rack assembly <NUM> in <FIG> is configured for use as a fixed weightlifting rack, and includes a first side mount bracket <NUM> and a second side mount bracket <NUM> connected to the wall mount bracket <NUM>. The mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are configured for connection to a fixed weightlifting rack <NUM> to support the weightlifting rack <NUM> and fix the weightlifting rack <NUM> in position. Each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> includes a base <NUM> configured for connection to the wall mount bracket <NUM> and also configured for connection to one or more members of the weightlifting rack <NUM>. In the disclosure of <FIG>, the weightlifting rack <NUM> includes one or more beams <NUM> connected to each base <NUM> and extending outward from the base <NUM> to support the weightlifting rack <NUM>. The base <NUM> of each of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> in <FIG> is each formed as a rectangular plate, but may be formed of a differently shaped plate or another structure in other cases. Additionally, the rectangular shape of each base <NUM> in <FIG> is elongated in a direction that is vertical when the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to the wall mount bracket <NUM>. In some cases, the bases <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> each have a plurality of openings <NUM> to receive fasteners <NUM> for connection to the wall mount bracket <NUM>. Each base <NUM> has three openings <NUM> in the disclosure of <FIG>, which are spaced and vertically aligned with each other and located proximate the top end, bottom end, and center of the base <NUM>. As described above, the first and second side mounting regions <NUM>, <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM> have three openings <NUM>, <NUM> that are also vertically aligned and spaced to match the openings <NUM> in the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. The first side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the first side mounting region <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM> and the second side mount bracket <NUM> is connected to the second side mounting region <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM> by fasteners <NUM> received through the mounting openings <NUM> in the bases <NUM> of the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the central panel <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, <NUM> in the wall mount bracket <NUM> of <FIG> are horizontally aligned with and vertically spaced from each other, as described above. In some cases, as illustrated in <FIG>, the wall mount bracket <NUM> has at least three openings <NUM>, <NUM> that are positioned such that one of the openings <NUM>, <NUM> is positioned above both beams <NUM>, another one of the openings <NUM>, <NUM> is positioned below both beams <NUM>, and a third of the openings is positioned between the beams <NUM>. The mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> have at least three corresponding openings <NUM> that are positioned in the same way.

The beams <NUM> of the weightlifting rack <NUM> may be connected to the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> in various different configurations, including by use of welding, brazing, adhesives or other bonding materials, or various mechanical joining structures such as interlocking structures or screws, bolts, rivets, or other fasteners. In thedisclosure of <FIG>, the beams <NUM> are received in openings <NUM> in the mount brackets <NUM>, <NUM> and then bonded in place by welding, brazing, adhesives, or other bonding materials. The beams <NUM> are connected to a frame <NUM> configured to rest on the floor and support various weightlifting structures, including any of the weightlifting structures shown and described elsewhere herein. The frame <NUM> may include various frame members <NUM> and have various different forms, and in some cases as shown in <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes at least a first vertical member <NUM> located toward the first end <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM> and a second vertical member <NUM> located toward the second end <NUM> of the wall mount bracket <NUM>. The first and second vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> engage the ground and are also connected to and/or support other frame members <NUM>. The frame members <NUM> may be configured similarly to other frame members described herein, or may have a different configuration. The frame members <NUM> may further include cross-beams <NUM> between the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or each set of beams <NUM> may have one or more supports <NUM> extending between them for strength and stability, such as shown in <FIG>. In the disclosure of <FIG>, the beams <NUM> are connected at or near the tops of the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM>, and the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> include no additional support between the vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> and the wall surface <NUM>. The first side mount bracket <NUM>, the first vertical member <NUM>, and the beams <NUM> connecting them may be considered to constitute a first side assembly of the weightlifting rack assembly <NUM>, and the second side mount bracket <NUM>, the second vertical member <NUM>, and the beams <NUM> connecting them may likewise be considered to constitute a second side assembly of the weightlifting rack assembly <NUM>. In some cases, the spacing between the wall surface <NUM> and the first and second vertical members <NUM>, <NUM> is greater than the lateral spacing between the first and second vertical members <NUM>, <NUM>. In some cases, multiple rack assemblies <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may be arranged side by side and mounted along one or more wall surfaces, and such side by side rack assemblies <NUM> may be connected to each other by additional frame members, e.g., cross beams <NUM>, to form a larger combined rack assembly.

Various embodiments of weightlifting rack assemblies, mount assemblies configured for use with such rack assemblies, and accessories therefor have been described herein, which include various components and features. In other embodiments, these structures may be provided with any combination of such components and features. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the various devices, components, and features of the weightlifting rack assemblies, mount assemblies, and other structures described herein may be constructed with similar structural and functional elements having different configurations, including different ornamental appearances.

Claim 1:
A weightlifting assembly, comprising:
a wall mount bracket (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) configured for mounting to a wall surface (<NUM>), the wall mount bracket being elongated along a lateral width thereof and having an outer surface and an inner surface opposite the outer surface, the wall mount bracket further having a first mounting region and a second mounting region spaced from each other along the lateral width of the wall mount bracket; and
a pull-up assembly (<NUM>) connected to the wall mount bracket, the pull-up assembly comprising:
a first side mount bracket (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising a first base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) engaged with and confronting the outer surface of the wall mount bracket and connected to the first mounting region of the wall mount bracket, a first support arm (<NUM>)extending outward from the first base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and a first receiver (<NUM>) connected to the first support arm (<NUM>), wherein the first base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the first support arm (<NUM>) are formed of a first single, integral piece having a first bend forming a first juncture between the first base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the first support arm (<NUM>);
a second side mount bracket (<NUM>, <NUM><NUM>) comprising a second base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) engaged with and confronting the outer surface of the wall mount bracket and connected to the second mounting region of the wall mount bracket, a second support arm (<NUM>) extending outward from the second base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and a second receiver (<NUM>) connected to the second support arm (<NUM>), wherein the second base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second support arm (<NUM>) are formed of a second single, integral piece having a second bend forming a second juncture between the second base (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and the second support arm (<NUM>); and
a bar (<NUM>, <NUM>) connected to the first side mount bracket and the second side mount bracket and extending between the first and second side mount brackets in a direction along the lateral width of the wall mount bracket, wherein the bar (<NUM>, <NUM>) is received in the first and second receivers (<NUM>) to connect the bar (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the first and second side mount brackets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the wall mount bracket is configured to suspend the pull-up assembly above a ground surface, such that the pull-up assembly does not engage the ground surface.