DE102018124700A1 - Handheld electronic device for muscle training - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a portable electronic handheld device for a muscle training, in particular to devices in which a force is exerted by a person, the user or the athlete, by means of his muscles on the device on other muscles. It is the object the invention to provide a mobile device for muscle training that is small, easy to handle and well suited for transport. The transition from use to transport should be quick and easy. The task is solved by a device that forms a compact unit in the transport state by loops, handles, and a force measuring element as well as the necessary electronics in a housing or the handles are integrated united. The invention relates in particular to designs of such devices in the transport state.

Description

The present invention relates to a portable electronic handheld device for muscle training, in particular to devices in which a force is exerted by a person, the user or the athlete, by means of his muscles on the device on other of his muscles. The force is recorded electronically by means of a force measuring element, electronically, supported by software, processed, displayed, evaluated and / or transmitted wirelessly. The pocket device according to the invention for muscle training is one of the isokinetic devices in which the force in the movement should be constant when a body's own force acts on a muscle or a muscle group. The training process is in the DE 19858564 A1 Strength training procedures described. Every user of the device is referred to here and below as a user. The force is carried out at least in places via traction means.

• A) Der Nutzungszustand, in dem das Gerät durch einen Nutzer aktiv genutzt wird. In diesem Zustand hat der Nutzer über seine Extremitäten Kontakt mit Teilen des Gerätes, vorzugsweise mittels Schlaufen oder Griffen. Über diese leitet der Nutzer Körperkräfte in das Gerät ein. Die dabei auf verschiedenste Weise gestaltbare Beanspruchung der Muskeln stärkt diese mit vielfältigen positiven gesundheitlichen Auswirkungen. In diesem Zustand soll das Gerät gut fassbar, leicht und dabei fest und in jeder Körperstellung sowie verständlich nutzbar sein. Anzeige- und Signalisierungsmittel, die an den Nutzer Informationen über die durchzuführenden oder durchgeführten Übungen sowie über Gerätezustände und weitere Informationen, wie Erinnerungen oder Vergleichswerte, vermitteln, sollen vorhanden und - zumindest die wichtigsten - in jeder Körperstellung des Nutzers von diesem gut erfassbar sein.
• B) Der Transportzustand, in dem das Gerät zum Beispiel in einer Kleidungstasche, einer Hosen- oder Jackentasche, verstaut wird und für die nächste Nutzung, also für die Fortsetzung des Trainings, nahezu jederzeit und überall bereit gehalten wird.

In diesem Zustand soll das Gerät klein, leicht, kompakt, handlich und ohne Vorsprünge oder „Auswüchse“ gestaltet sein.Such devices, if they are mobile, are characterized by two states:

• A) The state of use in which the device is actively used by a user. In this state, the user has contact with parts of the device via his extremities, preferably by means of loops or handles. The user uses this to introduce body forces into the device. The strain on the muscles that can be designed in a variety of ways strengthens them with a variety of positive health effects. In this state, the device should be easy to grasp, light and yet firm and usable in every body position. Display and signaling means that provide the user with information about the exercises to be carried out or carried out as well as about device states and other information, such as memories or comparative values, should be available and - at least the most important - should be easy to grasp by the user in every body position.
• B) The state of transport, in which the device is stowed in a clothes pocket, a trouser or jacket pocket, for example, and is kept ready for the next use, i.e. for the continuation of the training, almost anytime and anywhere.

In this state, the device should be small, light, compact, handy and without protrusions or “excesses”.

Numerous devices are known in which a physical force is directed to a force measuring element during the use phase, which supplies an electrical output signal as an image of the physical force introduced and this signal is processed in the device by software-controlled means, for example evaluated, displayed or preferably passed on wirelessly. Often there is a wireless bidirectional connection to a smartphone, and via this also to the Internet and to computers and other devices that can be reached via it, so that a large action space is available for software-based applications, e.g. from updating the device software to worldwide communication about exercise effects.

Isokinetic dynamometers are also known as diagnostic devices in medicine and physiotherapy, in which the course of the muscle strength is determined during a muscle load. These are large and complex devices that are only used in medical practices or clinics.

Another sports device for muscle training, in which the force is introduced into a force measuring element and whose signal is electronically evaluated and also transmitted wirelessly, is operated via belts with and without handles and is in the patent application WO 2016/116101 A1 disclosed.

A disadvantage of this solution is that the straps and any handles connected to them “hang around” when not in use, ie when the device is at rest or in transport. Although the straps are fixed in position during the phase of non-use, this design is not very stable, it increases the resting volume and does not offer a solution if additional handles are used.

The patent publication WO 2014140422 A1 describes a system for controlling an exercise in an apparatus for exercising and measuring muscle strength. A movement device to be operated by a user is connected to a magnetorheological braking unit which resists the movement of the movement device moved by an applied user force. The resistance is actively controlled by a control unit during training based on a sensor signal from one or more sensors. A processing unit is connected to the control unit in order to select parameters of an exercise.

Only a small part of these devices is suitable for mobile use. Mobile use here means that the device can be used at any time and anywhere and can be transported in the simplest way and without complaints. The transition from the state of use to the state of transport and vice versa should be quick and easy.

A device that works purely mechanically - and thus dispenses with all the advantages of electronics - that promises to meet these requirements is relatively heavy and, due to the hanging handle loops, can only be stowed away in a bag (isokinator). Other devices that meet the requirements and are small, light and compact when transported are not known.

Presentation of the invention

It is the object of the invention to provide a mobile device for muscle training that is small, easy to handle and well suited for transportation. The transition from usage to transportation should be quick and easy.

According to the invention, this object is achieved in that, in the transport state, the device forms a compact unit, in that loops, handles, and a force measuring element and the necessary electronics are integrated in a housing or the handles. The invention relates in particular to designs of such devices in the transport state.

For the transition from the transport state to the state of use, this integration of the elements is partially canceled, which increases the dimensions and enables a connection to the extremities of the user, and the user can introduce body forces into the force measuring element.

The object is achieved with the features of the main claim, the subclaims describing further refinements.

The electronic handheld device for muscle training according to the invention can be subjected to tension and has one or two pulling means that can be actuated by a user. The one or more traction means is or are connected to a force measuring element in order to exert a physical force on the force measuring element via these traction means. The force measuring element is in turn connected to an electronic circuit. The force measuring element, the electronic circuit, energy storage and communication means are stowable in a housing or in handles which are or are connected to the traction means in order to form a compact, integrated, almost complete unit in one state of non-use, which can be carried out largely by one hand / can be almost completely encompassed. The force measuring element can be an element known from force measurement technology, such as (sheet metal) strips, rod, tube, frame, spring body: each with one or more strain gauges or with other (e.g. capacitive or inductive) elements. The force measuring element can also be a pressure measuring element with hydralic transmission or a solid element (e.g. magnetostrictive or piezoelectric).

In one embodiment, the housing has at least one chamber which is open to the outside and in which the traction device or devices can be stowed.

In a further embodiment, the handles are stowable on or in the housing. The handles can also form the housing at the same time.

In a further embodiment, the force measuring element is arranged between the handles and is arranged in the traction means or the force measuring element is integrated in one of the two handles. When the force measuring element is integrated in a handle, the traction means is deflected via a roller or a sliding piece in the corresponding handle, so that a constant angle between the traction means and the force measuring element is ensured.

In a further embodiment, technical components are introduced into the housing or the handles. The technical components include storage for electrical energy, signaling devices and / or parts of the electronics. The technical components can also include optical, acoustic and / or haptic signaling means.

The traction devices are belt loops, ropes, chains, pipes or rods with joints or steel straps.

The electronic handheld device can be supplied with energy by different means. Examples include: battery or rechargeable battery, additional energy harvesters, solar elements, inductive charging. Communication means in / on the handheld device are, for example, a screen, touchscreen, mini screen, buttons, setting wheel, also latching with several positions and pressure position, illuminants, preferably LEDs (also shining through the housing), light indicators, beepers, loudspeakers, microphone for voice input, vibrator, inclinometer , Electrodes on the handles for pulse detection, temperature sensors, breathing sensor (breathing direction, breath analysis), clock, electrodes on the handles, which record electrical body signals (e.g. pulse, hand moisture), etc. Wireless communication can be carried out, for example, via Bluetooth, WLAN, Internet and the like Connections are made. Computer-internal data processing is possible through component control, memory, software. A cable connection for energy supply / charging and / or for software connections can also be provided.

The programming of the components of the pocket device, as well as the others Communication can take place using a wirelessly connected smartphone or via cable.

A major advantage of the invention is that in the transport state of the mobile handheld electronic device for muscle training, all components such as loops, handles, force measuring element and electronics form a compact unit. In the transport state, the elements of the device are integrated and connected to each other. For the transition from the transport state to the state of use of the handheld electronic device, this integration of its components is partially eliminated, which increases the dimensions of the handheld device and enables a connection to the extremities of the user and the user can introduce body forces into the force measuring element.

Figure list

• 1 eine erfindungsgemäße Lösung im Übergang zwischen Nutzungszustand und Transportzustand mit teilweise verstauten Zugmitteln und geschlossenem Gehäuse,
• 2 die erfindungsgemäße Lösung mit teilweise verstauten Zugmitteln und zu Zwecken der Darstellung mit einem geöffnet gezeichneten Gehäuse,
• 3 eine Ausführung der erfindungsgemäßen Lösung,
• 4 eine weitere Ausführung der erfindungsgemäßen Lösung mit zwei Griffen und einem Zugmittel im Nutzungszustand,
• 5 die Ausführung von 4 im Transportzustand
• 6 eine weitere Ausführung der erfindungsgemäßen Lösung, bei der das Gehäuse die Höhe und Breite einer Scheckkarte hat,
• 7 die Ausführung von 6 in einer anderen Darstellung,
• 8 eine weitere Ausführung, mit zwei Griffen und einem Zugmittel, bei der das Zugmittel auf den Griffen aufgewickelt wird.

The invention is explained using an exemplary embodiment. Show this

• 1 a solution according to the invention in the transition between the state of use and the state of transport with partially stowed traction means and closed housing,
• 2nd the solution according to the invention with partially stowed traction means and for purposes of illustration with an open drawn housing,
• 3rd an implementation of the solution according to the invention,
• 4th a further embodiment of the solution according to the invention with two handles and a traction device in the state of use,
• 5 the execution of 4th in transport condition
• 6 a further embodiment of the solution according to the invention, in which the housing has the height and width of a check card,
• 7 the execution of 6 in another representation,
• 8th another version, with two handles and a traction device, in which the traction device is wound on the handles.

In the exemplary embodiments, the same parts are provided with the same reference symbols, insofar as this is possible.

1 shows an embodiment of the pocket device for a muscle training at rest with partially stowed traction devices 1 , 2nd and closed housing 3rd . The housing 3rd has the shape of a square, rather flat box and can be made in a very small version. The limits on the size of the case 3rd lie in the components arranged therein, such as a force measuring element K , An assembly with an electronic circuit and an electrical energy source and display and / or signaling means, such as lamps, sound generators, screen or vibrator. The force measuring element K is connected to two pulling means which can be operated by a user 1 , 2, for this version two belt loops, which are inside the housing 3rd should be accommodated. On the case 3rd is a mini screen M arranged as a means of communication, preferably designed as a touch screen. The pocket device can have further such means such as light-emitting diodes or acoustic means. The traction device used for the application of force by the user 1 , 2nd are designed as loops or belt loops. The traction devices 1 , 2nd are in recesses in the housing in transport condition 3rd stuck. The cutouts can, as shown, be located on the sides or on the back facing away from the screen. The 1 represents the pocket device in the transition between use condition and transport condition. The left loop 1 is outside the housing 3rd and the right loop 2nd is in the housing 3rd plugged in. These are in the housing 3rd two chambers 4th , 5 arranged opposite each other. Between the chambers 4th , 5 are the force measuring element K and all other components for the force measurement arranged. One pulling device each 1 , 2nd is in one chamber at a time 4th , 5 stowed away. The chambers 4th , 5 are through openings 6 , 7 in the housing 3rd accessible. The openings 6 , 7 are located on two opposite sides of the housing 3rd . Both traction devices are used 1 , 2nd , in the embodiment it is loops, from the housing 3rd pulled out and after switching on the pocket device, it is ready for use. To carry out the training, the user reaches into the loops and exerts these tensile forces on the force measuring element K inside the pocket device.

To create the transport condition, both loops are in the housing 3rd inserted and the device switched off. The transport state is therefore very compact due to the combination / integration of all components. The pocket device can be easily stowed in a pocket of clothing.

The orientation of the order of magnitude of the dimensions is given by the fact that the front of the device has the dimensions of a credit card.

2nd issues the pocket device 1 in partial section. The two chambers 4th and 5 take the means of transport in the transport state 1 , 2nd on. The traction devices guide in the state of use 1 , 2nd the Physical forces of the user on the force measuring element K . In the example, the electronic components and the required battery are in one block 8th put together. A mini touch screen (not shown), which forms the front part of the device, serves as a signaling, display and input means.

3rd represents an embodiment in which the traction means 1 , 2nd designed as loops and with handles 9 , 10th are provided. Through the handles 9 painful strains on the user's fingers can be avoided. The handles 9 , 10th advantageously have four finger grooves, the thumb encloses the fingers that hold the handle 9 , 10th hold / embrace. The handles are used to produce the transport condition 9 , 10th with the traction devices 1 , 2nd into the chambers 4th , 5 of the pocket device. In the 3rd is a traction device 1 with handle 9 pulled out of the pocket device, the other traction device 2nd with handle 10th is still or already in the pocket device, so that it is not visible here. When using handles 9 , 10th , as described above, the traction means 1 , 2nd also be made very thin, for example as a steel cable, since it does not act directly on the fingers and cannot cut into them. When using such thin traction devices 1 , 2nd the device dimensions can be further reduced. It is possible that the recesses are on the side or top and bottom of the housing 3rd are introduced and through the handles 9 , 10th be closed.

4th a further embodiment of the solution according to the invention with two handles 12th , 13 and a traction device 11 in use. The two handles 12th , 13 are with each other via the traction mechanism 11 connected. The traction device 11 can be a rope, a thread or a braid into which electrical conductors can also be braided. The force measuring element K can both, integrated into the traction mechanism 11 , between the handles 12th , 13 be arranged (execution in 4th ), or it's in one of the two handles 12th , 13 integrated. In the handles 12th , 13 there are also the electronic components and the battery. The two handles 12th , 13 connecting traction means 11 can be accompanied by electrical conductors.

When integrating the force measuring element K in one grip 12th , 13 it must be ensured that the measured force remains largely independent of the angle of the traction device 11 and the handles 12th , 13 form each other during use. This is achieved in that the traction device 11 for example via a roller or a slider in the handles 12th , 13 is deflected so that the angle between the traction means 11 and the force measuring element K remains constant.

The handles 12th , 13 have four finger grooves. On the side of the handles facing away from the finger grooves 12th , 13 have the handles 12th , 13 or one of the handles 12th , 13 Cutouts or more or less open chambers 14 which in the transport state the traction device 11 and possibly in the traction device 11 include integrated elements. In this case, the housing can be completely 3rd be dispensed with, the handles 12th , 13 the function of the housing 3rd for the traction device 11 and take over the necessary technical components. The technical components include, for example, storage for electrical energy, signaling means and / or parts of the electronics. Optical, acoustic and / or haptic signaling means can also be included as technical components. The traction device 11 provides an electrical connection between the handles 12th , 13 and thus also to the technical components. The traction device 11 can be from electrical conductors that are parallel or into the traction mechanism 11 are integrated, be accompanied.

In or on the end faces of the handles 12th , 13 are display elements, e.g. LEDs or one or more OLEDs or a mini screen M , arranged.

5 represents the execution of 4th in the transport state. The traction device is used to produce the transport state 11 through a groove or column on one side of the handle 12th , 13 led to the back where it from the chamber 14 in one of the two or two handles 12th , 13 is recorded. This chamber 14 can have means, for example pins, around which the traction means 11 is temporarily fixed. Both handles are in the transport state 12th , 13 with their chambers 14 facing each other and connected by releasable connections. Such connections can be designed in a variety of ways as snap connections that can be released by finger pressure or by magnetic means. The handles 12th , 13 have signaling means / communication means of various types, for example LEDs or mini OLED screens, which are preferably in the end caps of the handles 12th , 13 are placed. The LEDs can also be inside the handles 12th , 13 be mounted and be recognizable by the at least partially transparent handle material.

In a further embodiment, the transport state is achieved by moving the handles 12th , 13 leading ropes into side slots (narrow chambers) and then the handles 12th , 13 outside with the housing 3rd or connected to the base body, for example clicked.

The 6 and 7 show a further embodiment of the solution according to the invention, in which the housing 20th has the height and width of a check card, whereby in 7 only the force measuring element and the traction means for better illustration 21 , 22 with the handles 23 , 24th you can see.

The 6a and 6b put in a side view the pocket device in the idle state with stowed traction devices 21 , 22 (here ropes). 6a shows an illustration without handles 23 , 24th . This makes slots / chambers 25th visible that the inclusion of the traction device 21 , 22 serve in the transport state. 6b shows the side view with handles 23 , 24th , Mini screen M and the chamber 25th . The chamber 25th offers space for the admission of the force measuring element K , the electronics and the battery. In 6c is the pocket device on the upper side of the housing 20th with the mini screen M shown partially cut open so that an insight into the pocket device is possible. The term mini screen M is intended to represent various possible display and operating means, such as screen, touchscreen. The traction devices 21 , 22 lead from the handles 23 , 24th to attachment points K1 , K2 on the force measuring element K , which is designed here, for example, as a sheet with a strain gauge. Between the attachment points K1 , K2 the respective traction device runs 21 , 22 further, but is loose in this area even when force is applied, i.e. not under tension. The open traction ends between the attachment points K1 , K2 are connected, for example by a press sleeve. This creates the traction mechanism 21 , 22 a closed loop. This design causes the force measuring element to break K how it can occur in the event of overload, improper use or mischief, the respective traction device 21 , 22 between the attachment points K1 , K2 absorbs the force, avoiding major displacements that could result in injury.

7 shows a representation of the solution 6 , where further elements are omitted. The force measuring element K is between the handles 23 and 24th arranged and the two traction devices 21 , 22 lead from the handles 23 , 24th to attachment points K1 , K2 on the force measuring element K . The open traction ends of the traction means 21 , 22 are between the attachment points K1 , K2 connected without tension and not in the force path, as described above.

In 8a to c another version is shown, in which two predominantly round handles 32 , 33 via a traction device 31 are connected. 8a shows the state during use, 8b shows the transport status and 8c is a top view of a handle 33 with the display means. The traction device is in the transport state 31 around one or both handles 32 , 33 , preferably within a circumferential groove 35 wrapped, causing both handles 32 , 33 approach and form an integrated unit. Exemplary snap connections 34 fix the position of the handles 32 , 33 in transport condition. If the pocket device is to be used, the snap connections 34 released and the traction device 31 rolled out. The handles 32 , 33 take all the necessary technical components, such as the force measuring element K , the electronics etc., on. The handles 32 , 33 can additionally have means, for example a hook, which, when used, only partially unwind the traction means 31 allow, thereby adjusting the length of the traction device 31 is made possible. With this version, a flow of force between the toes of the user and his hands can also be established.

Since the above-described pocket device for muscle training, which is described in detail, involves various exemplary embodiments, these can be modified in a conventional manner to a large extent by the person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the specific configurations of the housing can also 3rd , 20th and the handles 9 , 10th , 12th , 13 , 23 , 24th , 32 , 33 follow in a different form than that described here. Likewise, the traction means 1 , 2nd , 11 , 21 , 22 , 31 be designed in a different form if this is necessary for reasons of space or design. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite articles "a" or "an" does not exclude that the relevant features can also be present more than once.

Reference list

1

Traction means

2nd

Traction means

3rd

casing

4th

chamber

5

chamber

6

opening

7

opening

8th

block

9

Handle

10th

Handle

11

Traction means

12th

Handle

13

Handle

14

chamber

20th

casing

21

Traction means

22

Traction means

23

Handle

24th

Handle

25th

chamber

31

Traction means

32

Handle

33

Handle

34

Snap connections

35

circumferential groove

K

Force measuring element

M

Mini screen

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is only included for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• DE 19858564 A1 [0001]
• WO 2016/116101 A1 [0005]
• WO 2014140422 A1 [0007]

Claims (10)

Handheld electronic device for muscle training, which can be subjected to tension and has one or two pulling means (1, 2, 11, 21, 22, 31) which can be actuated by a user and which is or are connected to a force measuring element (K) in order to these traction means (1, 2, 11, 21, 22, 31) exert a physical force on the force measuring element (K), which in turn is connected to an electronic circuit, characterized in that the force measuring element (K), the electronic circuit, energy storage and communication means in a housing (3, 20) or on or in handles (9, 10, 12, 13, 23, 24, 32, 33), which can be connected with the traction device (s) (1, 2, 11, 21, 22, 31) are connected, stowable or are arranged to form a compact, integrated, almost complete unit that can be gripped by one hand when not in use. Pocket device after Claim 1 characterized in that the housing (3, 20) has at least one chamber (4, 5) which is open to the outside and in which the traction means (1, 2, 11, 21, 22) can be stowed. Pocket device after Claim 1 characterized in that the handles (9, 10, 12, 13, 23, 24) are arranged stowable on or in the housing (3, 20). Pocket device after Claim 1 characterized in that the handles (9, 10, 12, 13, 23, 24) form the housing (3, 20). Pocket device after Claim 4 characterized in that the force measuring element (K) is arranged between the handles (12, 13, 23, 24, 32, 33), incorporated in the traction means (11, 21, 22), or the force measuring element (K) in one of the two handles (10, 11) is integrated. Pocket device after Claim 5 characterized in that when the force measuring element (K) is integrated in a handle (12, 13, 23, 24, 32, 33) the traction means (12) is deflected via a roller or a slide in the corresponding handle (10, 11), so that a constant angle between traction means (11) and force measuring element (K) is guaranteed. Pocket device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that technical components are introduced into the housing (3, 20) or the handles (9, 10, 12, 13, 23, 24, 32, 33). Pocket device after Claim 7 characterized in that the technical components include storage for electrical energy, signaling means and / or parts of the electronics. Pocket device after Claim 7 characterized in that the technical components comprise optical, acoustic and / or haptic signaling means. Pocket device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the traction means (1, 2, 11, 21, 22, 31) are belt loops, ropes, chains or steel straps.

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