SENSOR-WEIGHT SYSTEM FOR AN EXERCISE MACHINE

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application generally relates to a sensor-weight system for an exercise machine. The sensor-weight system comprises a load cell, a three-axis accelerometer, a battery a housing, a communication unit, a data processing unit and a weight stack with a plurality of weights which can be coupled with a weight sword by a pin. The load cell interconnects a cable with the weight sword of the weight stack, wherein the cable can be coupled to a user interface of the exercise machine.

BACKGROUND

An exercise machine is a mechanical device designed to support and optimize physical exercises. These machines are commonly used in gyms, rehabilitation centers, and can also be used in private homes to train various muscle groups, improve physical fitness, and achieve specific health goals. There are different types of exercise machines, such as cardio machines that enhances cardiovascular fitness, strength machines that increases muscle strength and mass, and flexibility and stretching machines that improves body flexibility and mobility. Multifunctional machines combine various functions to provide comprehensive training.

Fitness strength machines with weight stacks, also known as selectorized machines, are a common type of exercise machines. These machines typically feature weight stacks ranging from 45 kg to 200 kg, often segmented into 5 kg or 10-pound increments. The weight blocks, often referred to as “Iron Weights”, are connected to a system of cables and pulleys, providing the necessary resistance for a variety of cable-based exercises. These machines are the industry standard in both commercial and home gym environments.

Exercise machines can be configured as, for example, a power rack, a cable crossover machine, a functional trainer, a smith machine or a strength and smith machine.

Examples of exercises that can be performed on selectorized machines include lat-pulldowns, chest flyes, seated rowing, shoulder presses, and leg curls. Users can adjust the weight resistance by moving a pin between different weight blocks, coupling the selected weight blocks to a weight sword, which allows for customization of the workout intensity.

The integration of fitness tracking technology into exercise machines is becoming increasingly important. There is a growing need to accurately monitor and record workout intensity and performance.

From EP 3242727 B1, a sensor-weight system is known. This system comprises an exercise tracker designed to monitor and record activities on weight-lifting equipment. It features a base with multiple protrusions that receive a cable from the equipment and bend when the cable is tensioned. A force sensor measures the force applied to the cable, which correlates with the bending of the protrusions, indicating the weight lifted. A processing unit receives this force signal to determine exercise data such as the weight lifted and the number of repetitions. Additionally, the exercise tracker includes an accelerometer that detects movement. The device can wirelessly transmit data to remote devices.

However, the sensor-weight system disclosed in EP 3242727 B1 has the disadvantage of inaccurate measurements. The bending of the protrusions of the exercise tracker may not accurately reflect the lifted weight if they are unevenly deformed or worn. Furthermore, the exercise tracker can be incorrectly or in accurately attached to the cable of an exercise machine, as it is designed to be attached and detached from an exercise machine. Additionally, damage to the cable may occur due to the deformation required for attachment of the exercise tracker.

SUMMARY

The present application presents a sensor-weight system that is highly durable, robust, reliable, and provides accurate measurement results.

In a first aspect, the application relates to a sensor-weight system for an exercise machine. The sensor-weight system may comprise a load cell, a three-axis accelerometer, a battery, a housing, a communication unit, a data processing unit and a weight stack with a plurality of weights (or weight blocks) which can be coupled with a weight sword by a pin. The load cell preferably interconnects a cable with the weight sword of the weight stack, wherein the cable can be coupled to a user interface of the exercise machine.

The integration of the load cell with the cable and weight sword provides a direct measurement of the force exerted by the user, enabling precise monitoring of the user's performance during an exercise on an exercise machine. The combination of a load cell and a three-axis accelerometer allows for comprehensive monitoring of both static and dynamic loads, as well as the direction and speed of movements, facilitating detailed analysis of exercise routines. In particular, the sensor-weight system offers real-time feedback and interactive training sessions, enhancing the user experience. It can also be easily integrated into various conventional exercise machines.

In this regard, the load cell represents a connecting element between the weight sword and the cable, which is a significant difference from existing sensor-weight systems. The cable is used to transmit the user's force to the weight sword, wherein due to the interconnection the force is always directed through the load cell for enhanced accuracy. The cable is not subject to any kind of bending or other form of stress, so there is no risk of damage.

In the context of the application, a load cell is preferably a precision measurement device designed to measure forces in mechanical systems and convert them into an electrical signal proportional to the applied load. Preferably, a load cell comprises a mechanical element that deforms under load and an integrated or attached transducer, such as a strain gauge or a piezoelectric component, which detects the deformation and converts it into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed and interpreted by corresponding electronics to provide accurate and reliable force measurements.

Preferably, a three-axis accelerometer measures acceleration and a distance a weight is moved along three perpendicular axes (X, Y, and Z). The three-axis accelerometer can for example be attached to the back of a load cell or at any location on the weight sword. This type of accelerometer is used in smartphones, for example.

The communication unit may be configured to transmit and receive data between the sensor-weight system and external devices. This unit can support various communication protocols, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks, to ensure seamless connectivity. It may also be possible for the communication unit to send and receive data via a wired connection.

In particular, the communication unit can be coupled to the data processing unit or can be a part of the data processing unit. The data processing unit is preferably formed as a printed circuit board and may comprise a processor and a memory.

In a further preferred embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery and particularly serves as a power source for all components in the sensor-weight system. A connector may be provided to charge the battery. For example, a USB-c connector.

In general, a weight stack is preferably a series of rectangular weight plates, usually made of metal, that are stacked and can be selected for use by inserting a pin into the desired weight level. The user can adjust the number of weights by moving the pin to a different weight plate, coupling the selected weight plates to a weight sword. The weight stack is guided up and down by a pair of vertical rods and the weight sword, which is connected to a cable and positioned between the vertical rods.

The user interface preferably allows a user to exert force against a resistance in order to exercise muscles. The user interface may take a variety of forms, including (but not limited to) a single handle, a long bar handle, a lat pull-down handle, a rope, etc.

Additionally, a cable refers to a strong, flexible wire or rope used to transmit force and provide resistance during workouts by being connected with weights. These cables are typically made of durable materials like steel or high-tensile synthetic fibers, designed to withstand significant tension while connecting various components of exercise machines, allowing for smooth and controlled movement.

The load cell is preferably connected to an end of the cable and directly fixed to the weight sword. The direct fixation of the load cell to the weight sword ensures a robust and reliable attachment that can withstand the rigors of repeated use. The load cell may be connected to the weight sword in a material-, form- and/or force-locking manner. For example, the load cell can be attached to the weight sword by a screw connection, by welding, by soldering, by gluing, or by using a clamping connection.

Positioning the load cell at the end of the cable minimizes the influence of external factors on the measurement accuracy. The cable can be attached to the load cell by a screw connection. In this regard, the end of the cable can comprise a nut with internal thread and the load cell can have an extension with external thread. The screw connection allows for easy maintenance and replacement of the load cell. Alternatively, the end of the cable can have a loop or a hook, while the load cell can correspondingly have a hook or a loop. Other coupling elements between the load cell and the cable are also possible.

Preferably, the housing accommodates the load cell, the three-axis accelerometer, the data processing unit and/or the data communication unit. The housing may comprise two parts, a base and a cover. The two-part housing design simplifies the assembly and disassembly process, facilitating quick access to internal components for maintenance or repair. A base and cover configuration provides a secure enclosure for the electronic components, protecting them from environmental factors such as dust and moisture. The modular nature of the housing allows for potential customization or upgrades to the system without the need for complete redesign, offering flexibility to adapt to future technological advancements.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing comprises a door element or a closeable opening, through which the load cell, the three-axis accelerometer, the battery, the communication unit and/or the data processing unit can be inserted into the housing. The inclusion of a door element in the housing design enables convenient access to the internal components, allowing for straightforward installation or replacement without disassembling the entire housing. The door element enhances the serviceability of the system by enabling technicians to quickly reach the load cell, accelerometer, battery, communication unit, and data processing unit. The ability to insert components through the door element also reduces the risk of damage during assembly, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the sensor-weight system.

Furthermore, the weight sword may comprise a shaft with axially spaced openings and a plate with through holes which can guide rod tubes of the exercise machine. The weight sword's design, featuring a shaft with axially spaced openings, allows for easy adjustment of the weight selection. The axially spaced openings are designed to accommodate a pin that couples the selected weights of the weight stack to the weight sword. The plate with through holes that guide the rod tubes ensures smooth operation, as the weight sword is always properly aligned and can effectively engage with the weight stack, leading to a stable and secure lifting experience for the user.

Generally, rod tubes are cylindrical structures within the exercise machine that serve as guides for the weight stack's movement. The rod tubes ensure that the weight stack moves linearly and smoothly, reducing friction and preventing misalignment. They are typically made of durable, low-friction materials to withstand repeated use and maintain the machine's stability, such as steel, aluminum, plastics, or stainless steel.

In a further preferred embodiment, the housing is connected to the plate in a material-, form- and/or force-locking manner. The material-, form-, and/or force-locking connection between the housing and the plate enhances the structural integrity of the system, ensuring that the components remain securely attached under various operating conditions.

In this context, the plate may comprise a recess for receiving the housing. The recess in the plate designed to receive the housing allows for a compact and streamlined design. By accommodating the housing within the plate, the system can offer improved aesthetic qualities, as the housing can be made less visible or entirely concealed within the plate. The integration of the housing into the plate can provide additional protection for the housed components by leveraging the mechanical strength and rigidity of the plate material.

In a further preferred embodiment, the load cell is integrated in the plate, the plate having a corresponding cavity, wherein the load cell is connected to the plate in a material-, form- and/or force-locking manner. The material-, form-, and/or force-locking connection between the load cell and the plate ensures precise positioning and stability of the load cell, which is critical for accurate force and weight measurements. The load cell may be integrated into the plate, while the housing contains the other components, the accelerometer, battery, data processing unit and/or communication unit. The housing, enclosing the accelerometer, battery, data processing unit, and/or communication unit, can be located above the load cell, for example.

In a further preferred embodiment, the plate comprises a hollow space or cavity and serves as a housing, wherein the load cell, the three-axis accelerometer, the battery, the communication unit and the data processing unit are accommodated by the plate. Utilizing the plate as a housing for multiple components consolidates the system into a single, cohesive unit, which can simplify installation and maintenance by reducing the number of separate parts. The integration of all components within the plate can provide superior protection against external environmental factors, as well as reduce the risk of damage during handling or operation.

The hollow space of the plate may comprise several chambers, wherein the load cell, the three-axis accelerometer, the battery, the communication unit and/or the data processing unit can each be accommodated or located in different chambers so as not to interfere with each other. The division of the hollow space into several chambers allows for the physical separation of components, which can prevent electromagnetic interference and thermal cross-talk/interactions between the components, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the system. By accommodating each component in a separate chamber, the system design allows for targeted maintenance or replacement of individual components without disturbing the others, improving serviceability. The chambered design can be tailored to the specific needs of each component, such as providing customized shock absorption for the load cell or optimized airflow for cooling the data processing unit, thus ensuring that each component operates within its ideal environmental conditions.

Moreover, the plate may comprise an opening that connects the hollow space with the exterior of the plate. The opening can serve to route an antenna for the communication unit and/or to provide a slot for data transfer to the data processing unit and/or to provide a slot for charging the battery to the exterior of the plate. The inclusion of an opening in the plate that connects the hollow space with the exterior facilitates versatile connectivity options, such as the routing of an antenna for improved communication signal reception and transmission. The opening allows for convenient access to data transfer slots and charging ports, such as a USB-C charger, enhancing user experience by providing easy and efficient ways to maintain device functionality.

In a further preferred embodiment, the plate comprises an LCD display located on the side wall or front face of the plate so that the LCD display is visible for the user during exercise. The LCD display can display data processed by the data processing unit, such as weight measurements in KG or LBS, offering users real-time feedback and interaction with the sensor weight system. Additionally, the data processing unit can be in data communication with an external device via the communication unit. In this configuration, the LCD display can also visualize data from the external device.

The LCD display may be connected to the data processing unit by wires passing through a small opening or slot in the side wall of the plate. In another embodiment, the side wall of the plate can have an opening large enough to accommodate the LCD display. The back of the LCD display is directed into the hollow space of the plate. In particular, into a chamber of the hollow space where the data processing unit is located. This means that wiring is very easy as the LCD display is close to the data processing unit.

If the data processing unit is not accommodated in a hollow space of the plate but in an external housing located above the plate, the LCD display can be attached to a side wall either of the housing or the plate. In this case, the external housing will also have an opening or a slot so that the wires from the LCD display can be routed to the data processing unit.

The plate of the weight sword can be made of various materials, including metal, fiber-reinforced composite material, plastic, or ceramic. Combinations of these materials are also possible. The choice of robust materials contributes to the sensor-weight system's longevity, potentially reducing the need for maintenance and replacement over time.

In a further aspect, the application relates to an exercise machine which may comprise a body a sensor-weight system according to any of the embodiments described above and at least one pulley which is attached to the body. The pulley may guide the cable to a user interface, which is attached to the cable. The integration of a sensor-weight system into the exercise machine allows for precise measurement of the user's performance, enabling tailored workout routines and progress tracking.

In the context of the application, a body serves as the central framework or structure of the exercise machine, providing support and stability for all attached components, including the sensor-weight system and pulleys. The body is typically constructed from durable materials such as steel or aluminum to ensure the machine's strength and longevity. It may also feature various attachment points for accessories and adjustable elements to accommodate different exercises and user preferences.

A pulley is preferably a wheel mounted on an axle or shaft, designed to facilitate the movement and change the direction of a cable, rope or belt. It features preferably a groove or channel that keeps the cable securely in place. Typically, it includes bearings to ensure smooth operation and is constructed from durable materials such as metal or high-strength plastic. The pulley is usually mounted on robust brackets that attach to a machine. Some pulleys have an adjustment mechanism to alter the height or angle, and include safety features such as guards to prevent cable slippage and protect users. The wheel and groove have a smooth finish to minimize wear on the cable, and the entire assembly is preferably rated for a specific load capacity to ensure safe and effective operation.

In a further aspect of the application, a training exercise and management system is provided. The training exercise and management system may comprise an external device having a data processing unit and a communication unit, such as a smartphone or a tablet. In addition, the training exercise and management system comprises an exercise machine which is in data communication with the external device.

The exercise machine can be formed as a first exercise machine, in particular having a sensor-weight system described in the embodiments above. The sensor-weight system of the first exercise machine is configured to acquire a value of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword and/or the movement of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword and/or the movement of the cable. The system's ability to acquire and analyze data related to weight value, weight movement and cable movement allows for comprehensive monitoring of exercise performance, which can be used to optimize training regimens.

In an alternative embodiment, the exercise machine can be formed as a second exercise machine which comprises another sensor-weight system. The sensor-weight system of the second exercise machine can comprise a load cell a battery, a housing, a communication unit, a data processing unit and a weight stack with a plurality of weights that can be coupled with a weight sword. The load cell is located at the base of the weight stack, so that during an exercise by a user, weights which are not coupled to the weight sword rest on the load cell. The sensor-weight system of the second exercise machine is configured to acquire the weight or a plurality of weights which are not coupled to the weight sword.

The external device is preferably in data communication with the communication unit of the first exercise machine or the second exercise machine and is configured to analyze the acquired data. The communication between the external device and the exercise machine enables centralized data collection and analysis, offering users insights into their workout patterns and potential areas for improvement.

Further, the sensor-weight system can include an LCD display connected to the data processing unit of the sensor system of either the first exercise machine or the second exercise machine. The LCD display can visualize the analyzed data from the external device or from the data processing unit.

The sensor weight system of the second exercise machine functions preferably similarly to a scale. In this context, it is positioned beneath the weight stack. In a first state, all weights rest on the load cell. In a second state, which occurs when the user exerts force, only the weights that are not coupled with the weight sword rest on the load cell. This is because the weight sword is lifted during an exercise, raising the coupled weights along with it.

In a further aspect the application relates to a method for performing strength muscle training. The method preferably comprises the steps of providing of a training exercise and management system according to the embodiments described above and of applying a force via the user interface against a cable resistance which is generated by the weight stack. Furthermore, the method includes the step of acquiring the movement of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword, in particular a speed and/or an acceleration of the movement, of acquiring a value of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword. Subsequently, the method comprises the steps of transmitting all acquired data to the external device and of analyzing the acquired data, potentially using artificial intelligence algorithms.

The method facilitates the acquisition of detailed exercise data, such as speed and acceleration of weight movement, which can be used to assess the effectiveness of strength training and make necessary adjustments for improved outcomes. Transmitting all acquired data to an external device allows for the application of advanced analytical techniques, potentially including artificial intelligence algorithms, to interpret the data and provide personalized training recommendations. The method supports continuous improvement in muscle strength training by enabling users to track their progress over time and adjust their workouts based on precise, data-driven feedback.

The skilled person will recognize that the advantages, technical effects and preferred embodiments discussed in connection with the sensor-weight system, the exercise machine and the training exercise and management system apply analogously to the method for performing strength muscle training. Likewise, all the advantages, technical effects and preferred embodiments described in connection with the method are transferable to the sensor-weight system, the exercise machine and to the training exercise and management system.

It should be understood that the description above is provided to introduce in simplified form a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed description. It is not meant to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, the scope of which is defined uniquely by the claims that follow the detailed description. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure.

Further examples of embodiments are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The invention is not intended to be limited solely to these listed examples of embodiments. They merely serve to explain the invention in more detail.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a sensor system within a preferred sensor-weight system.

FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a sensor-weight system for an exercise machine.

FIG. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of a sensor-weight system for an exercise machine.

FIG. 4 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system for an exercise machine, wherein the components of the sensor system are enclosed in a housing.

FIG. 5 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system for an exercise machine depicted in a back view, wherein the components of the sensor system are enclosed in a housing.

FIG. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system, which is arranged alongside a conventional weight stack of an exercise machine.

FIG. 7 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system, which is arranged alongside a conventional weight stack of an exercise machine.

FIG. 8 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system, which is arranged alongside a conventional weight stack of an exercise machine.

FIG. 9 shows a further embodiment of the preferred sensor weight system.

FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 shows a further detailed view. of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a further detailed view. of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a further detailed view. of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 shows a further detailed view. of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows a further detailed view. of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 shows a further embodiment of a housing of the preferred sensor-weight system.

FIG. 17 shows a preferred embodiment of a training exercise and management system.

FIG. 18 shows a further preferred sensor-weight system, which can be implemented in an additional preferred exercise machine.

FIG. 19 shows a flowchart outlining a method for performing strength muscle training with a preferred training exercise and management system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a sensor system 35 within the preferred sensor-weight system 54. The sensor system 35 comprises a load cell 41, a three-axis accelerometer 42, and a rechargeable battery 44. Additionally, the sensor system 35 features a data processing unit 48, which can be implemented as a printed circuit board.

The rechargeable battery 44 powers the entire sensor system 35, ensuring continuous operation. The load cell 41 converts force into an electrical signal by preferably measuring weight through the deformation or strain in a material when a load is applied. The three-axis accelerometer 42, integrated onto the printed circuit board, measures acceleration along three axes, providing comprehensive motion detection.

The data processing unit 48 may include a processor and memory to process the data from the load cell 41 and/or the three-axis accelerometer 42 and may also include a communication unit to enable wireless communication via Bluetooth or WiFi with an external device 45 (not shown).

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 show a preferred embodiment of a sensor-weight system 54 for an exercise machine 1. The sensor-weight system 54 comprises the sensor system 35 described in FIG. 1. The sensor-weight system 54 is particularly configured to be used in an exercise machine 1 with a weight stack 5 comprising a plurality of weights that can be coupled to a weight sword 43 using a pin.

The load cell 41 interconnects a cable 13 with the weight sword 43 of the weight stack 5. Specifically, the load cell 41 is connected to an end of the cable 13, preferably through a screw connection, and directly fixed to the weight sword 43. The cable 13 can be coupled to a user interface 11 of the exercise machine 1.

The printed circuit board with the three-axis accelerometer 42, the communication unit, and the processor and memory is preferably mounted on the backside of the load cell 41. Additionally, the battery 44 is also mounted on the backside of the load cell. The weight sword 43 comprises a shaft 55 with axially spaced openings and a plate 50 with through holes 56, which can guide rod tubes of the exercise machine 1.

This configuration ensures that the sensor system 35 is securely integrated into the exercise machine 1, providing accurate data acquisition and real-time communication with an external device 45 for monitoring and analysis.

FIG. 4 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 for an exercise machine 1, wherein the components of the sensor system 35 described above are enclosed in a housing 49. The housing 49 comprises a base 51 and a cover 52 (not shown in FIG. 4).

The base 51 comprises an opening 61 on its upper side, designed to allow a cable 13 to pass through so that one end of the cable 13 can be connected to the load cell 41. Additionally, the housing 49 features a slot 57, which can accommodate a connector, such as USB-C, allowing the battery 44 to be charged and data to be transferred to the data processing unit 48.

The base 52 can be connected to the plate 50 of the weight sword 43 in a material-, form- and/or force-locking manner.

The weight stack 5 comprises a plurality of weights that can be coupled to the weight sword 43 using a pin. Each weight has openings or holes into which the pin can be inserted. The pin passes through these holes and engages with a corresponding hole in the axially spaced openings of the shaft 55 of the weight sword 43, securing the weights in place.

Moreover, the plate 50 of the weight sword 43 comprises through holes 56 to guide the rod tubes 53 of the exercise machine 1. Additionally, the weights of the weight stack 5 also have corresponding openings for the same purpose.

FIG. 5 shows a further preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 for an exercise machine 1 depicted in a back view, wherein the components of the sensor system 35 described above are enclosed in a housing 49. As already described in respect to FIG. 4, the housing 49 is divided into a base 51 and a cover 52. The base 51 and the cover 52 can be connected to each other via screw connections. The housing 49 is designed as a cuboid and has a size that can accommodate all the components of the sensor system 35 described above.

With regard to the other components shown in FIG. 5, reference is made to the figures above, since they are described there, and the reference numerals correspond.

FIG. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54, which is arranged alongside a conventional weight stack 5 of an exercise machine 1. The conventional weight stack 5 comprises weights which can each be coupled to a weight sword 43 by means of a pin. The weight sword 43 comprises a plate 50 and a shaft 55. In the conventional embodiment shown, the shaft 55 is immersed in the weights and is therefore not visible.

Furthermore, in the conventional weight stack 5, a pulley 20 is connected to the plate 50, with a cable 13 (not visible) attached to the pulley 20. The weight sword 43 of the conventional weight stack 5 can be replaced by the weight sword 43 with a sensor system 35 described in FIG. 1, wherein the sensor system 35 is enclosed by a housing 49.

It is possible to dispense with the pulley 20 and directly connect the cable 13 to the load cell 41 within the housing 49.

FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 correspond to the description of FIG. 6, and reference is made thereto.

In contrast to FIG. 6, FIG. 7 illustrates a sensor-weight system 54, which comprises a combination of sensor system 35 and a pulley 20. The sensor system 35 is also described in FIG. 1, wherein the components of the sensor system 35 are enclosed by a housing 49.

The pulley 20 can guide a cable 13 and the pulley 20 is positioned above the housing 49. In this context, the load cell 41 still serves as an interconnection between the cable 13 and the weight sword 43, in particular the plate 50, since the cable 13 is connected to the load cell 41 through the pulley 20.

FIG. 8 shows, in particular, that conventional weight stacks 5 (without a sensor system 35) can have implementation forms which do not have a pulley 20, wherein the cable 13 is directly fixed to a plate 50 of a weight sword 43. This embodiment of the conventional weight stack 5 can be upgraded by replacing the conventional weight sword 43 with a weight sword 43 connected to the sensor system 35 enclosed in a housing 49.

FIG. 9 shows a further embodiment of the preferred sensor-weight system 54. The sensor-weight system 54 comprises a weight sword 43 with a plate 50 and shaft 55, which has axially spaced openings. The plate 50 of the weight sword 43 is provided with two openings 56 to guide rod tubes of the exercise machine 1. In addition, a cable 13 is connected to a load cell 41, which is housed in a housing 49 and connected to the plate 50. Compared to previously described embodiments, the housing 49 is designed to be smaller.

FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9. Reference is therefore made to the description of FIG. 9. The housing 49 consists of two parts, namely a base 51 and a cover 52. The cover 52 is attached to the base 51 by four screw connections 58. The housing 49, namely the base 51, is fixed to the plate 50 also by four screw connections 59.

FIG. 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 as depicted in FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. In FIG. 11, the housing 49 is open as the cover 52 is removed, revealing that the load cell 41 is mounted in the center of the housing 49. The load cell 41 is mounted directly on the plate 50 of the weight sword 43. The base 51 preferably comprises flanges 62 with a support surface on each of which two screws are mounted to secure the housing 49 to the plate 50. For the other components, reference is made to the preceding FIGS.

FIG. 12 shows a preferred embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 as depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 11. FIG. 12 shows a view in which the housing 49 is completely removed and all other components enclosed by the housing 49 are also removed with the exception of the load cell 41. The load cell 41 is connected to the end of a cable 13 which can be coupled to a user interface 11, such as a handle, of an exercise machine 1. Furthermore, the load cell 41 is connected to the plate 50 of the weight sword 43 via two screw connections 60, so that the load cell 41 is firmly anchored in the plate 50 and can measure the forces acting between the cable 13 and the plate 50.

The load cell 41 is preferably designed with a threaded rod on one end and flange mounting holes on the other end, making it easy to install the load cell 41 onto plate 50. It may feature a rugged stainless steel structure that is well-sealed for enhanced durability and performance.

FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 show a further detailed view of the embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 as depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 12. In both views, the battery 44 and data processing unit 48 are located above the load cell 41 and enclosed by the housing 49. In FIGS. 13 and 14, the cover 52 is removed from the base 51, the cover 52 not being visible at all in FIG. 13 and being spaced from the base 51 along the cable 13 in FIG. 14.

FIG. 15 shows a further detailed view of the embodiment of the sensor-weight system 54 as depicted in FIG. 9-FIG. 14. In this view, the housing 49 is closed, wherein the cover 52 is closed with four screw connections to the base 51. On a lateral side of the housing 49 a slot 57 is located which can serve as a power or a data transmitting interface.

FIG. 16 shows a further embodiment of a housing 49 of the preferred sensor-weight system 54. In this embodiment, the plate 50 of the weight sword 43 comprises a hollow space and serves as a housing 49, in which the load cell 41, the three-axis accelerometer 42, the battery 44, the communication unit, and the data processing unit 48 are accommodated.

The hollow space of the plate 50 can be divided in several chambers, wherein the load cell 41, the three-axis accelerometer 42, the battery 44, the communication unit, and/or the data processing unit 48 can each be accommodated in different chambers to avoid interference with each other.

Further, the plate 50 can comprise an opening that connects the hollow space with the exterior of the plate 50, wherein the opening can serve to route an antenna for the communication unit and/or provide a slot for data transfer to the data processing unit 48 and/or provide a slot for charging the battery 44 to the exterior of the plate 50.

Additionally, the plate 50 can be designed to include an LCD display on a side wall, which can show measurement results or analyses that a user can view during exercise.

Moreover, through holes 56 are formed in the plate 50, which serve to guide the rod tubes 53 of the exercise machine 1.

FIG. 17 shows a preferred embodiment of a training exercise and management system. The training exercise and management system comprises an external device 45 with a data processing unit 48 and a communication unit, such as a smartphone. Additionally, the system includes an exercise machine 1 equipped with a sensor-weight system 54 as described in the previous embodiments. The exercise machine 1 features a body 3 and at least one pulley 19 attached to the body 3, which guides a cable 13 to a user interface 11. The user interface 11 is attached to the cable 13.

The user interface 11 is designed to enable a user to apply force against the resistance of the cable 13, which is generated by the weight stack 5. The sensor-weight system 54 of the exercise machine 1 is configured to acquire a value of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword 43 of the sensor-weight system 54 and/or the movement of a weight or a plurality of weights which are coupled to the weight sword 43 and/or the movement of the cable 13.

The external device 45 is in data communication with the communication unit of the sensor-weight system 54 of the exercise machine 1 and is configured to analyze the acquired data. For example, the external device 45 can read the amount of weight moved (kg), read the number of repetitions performed, read the total weight moved per set and workout, store and analyze information, and provide the user with relevant metrics and KPIs.

FIG. 18 shows a further preferred sensor-weight system 54, which can be implemented in an additional preferred exercise machine 1. This exercise machine 1 can also be utilized for a training exercise and management system. The sensor-weight system 54 may comprise a load cell 41, a battery 44, a housing 49, a communication unit, a data processing unit 48, and a weight stack 5 with a plurality of weights that can be coupled with a weight sword 43.

The load cell 41 is located at the base of the weight stack 5, so that during an exercise, weights that are not coupled to the weight sword 43 rest on the load cell 41. The load cell 41, the battery 44, and the data processing unit 48 can all be housed within the same housing 49, which is located at the bottom of the weight stack 5. Additionally, a slot for a USB-C connection can be provided in the housing 49, and/or a communication unit enabling Bluetooth communication can be included.

The sensor-weight system 54 of the second exercise machine 1 is configured to acquire data on the weight or weights that are not coupled to the weight sword 43. This allows the determination of how much weight is being moved and whether any weight is being moved at all by detecting changes in weight. When this further exercise machine with the sensor-weight system 54 is used in a training exercise and management system, the external device 45 of the training exercise and management system communicates with the communication unit of the sensor-weight system 54 of the further exercise machine 1 and is configured to analyze the acquired data.

FIG. 19 shows a flowchart outlining a method 1000 for performing strength muscle training with a preferred training exercise and management system. At 1002, the method 1000 includes providing a training exercise and management system as described in the embodiments above. At 1004, method 1000 involves applying a force via the user interface 11 against the resistance generated by the cable 13 and the weight stack 5. At 1006, the method 1000 includes acquiring the movement of a weight or a plurality of weights coupled to the weight sword 43, particularly the speed and/or acceleration of the movement. At 1008, the method 1000 involves acquiring the value of a weight or a plurality of weights coupled to the weight sword 43. At 1010, all acquired data is transmitted to the external device 45, where the data is analyzed, potentially using artificial intelligence algorithms.

The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and sub-combinations regarded as novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to “an” element or “a first” element or the equivalent thereof. Such claims should be understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and sub-combinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of the present claims or through presentation of new claims in this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.