Ergonomic Chest Plate Through Use of Relief Structures

The present disclosure relates to chest plates, in particular the present disclosure relates to chest plates having relief structures.

Chest plates worn on the chest for exercising are designed to add resistance to bodyweight exercises, such as dips, push-ups, and various core exercises. They are tailored to fit comfortably on the chest to allow for a full range of motion during exercises. Chest plates are constructed from durable materials like cast iron or steel. Chest plates come in various weights to suit different fitness levels and training objectives.

Comfort and safety are paramount when using chest plates on the chest. The plates should distribute the load evenly and comfortably to prevent discomfort or injury. Proper form and technique should always be maintained to avoid strain or injury during exercises. Chest plates worn on the chest can be versatile additions to any workout routine, allowing users to add resistance to a wide range of exercises, including bodyweight movements like push-ups, dips, planks, and core exercises. Individuals looking to increase the difficulty of bodyweight exercises or target specific muscle groups more effectively often incorporate chest plates worn on the chest into their training regimen.

Potential issues that can occur when using chest plates during various exercises are limitation of body movement and restriction of breath due to intrusive and constrictive plate shapes. For instance, the chin may become agitated by the chest plate when doing pull-ups or climbing. Other body parts, such as the diaphragm, sternum, and the shoulders can also become agitated. Therefore, there is a need in the field to provide chest plates with relief structures.

The present disclosure is directed to chest plates having relief structures adapted to assist a person exercising. The chest plate additionally has an ergonomic curve to conform to a user's chest.

An aspect of the disclosure is a chest plate. The chest plate comprising a front surface having a top edge and bottom edge; a back surface located opposite of the front surface; a first side edge and a second side edge connecting the top edge to the bottom edge; wherein the first side edge has a shoulder relief structure adjacent to the top edge and the second side edge, wherein the shoulder relief structure has shoulder angle portions that form an angle between at least two of the shoulder angle portions; wherein the top edge forms a “U” shaped chin relief structure; and the front surface and the back surface have an opening formed therebetween for diaphragm relief.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a chest plate for exercising. The chest plate for exercising comprising a top edge and bottom edge, wherein a front surface and a rear surface are formed between the top edge and the bottom edge, the front surface being opposite to the rear surface; a first side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge; a second side edge extending between the top edge and the bottom edge; shoulder relief structures formed by the first side edge and the second side edge, wherein the shoulder relief structures have shoulder angle portions forming angles; wherein the top edge has a chin relief structure formed by a depressed portion adapted to provide chin relief, and a diaphragm relief structure forming an opening between the front surface and the rear surface.

To facilitate an understanding of embodiments, principles, and features of the present disclosure, they are disclosed hereinafter with reference to implementation in illustrative embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure, however, are not limited to use in the described systems or methods and may be utilized in other systems and methods as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

The components described hereinafter as making up the various embodiments are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components that would perform the same or a similar function as the components described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of embodiments of the present disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure describe chest plates. In particular, chest plates adapted to have structures that provide relief to body parts that can be impacted during exercise.

Chest plates are built for endurance and allow individuals to increase the intensity of their workouts. Chest plates come in various sizes and weights, catering to different fitness levels and goals. They are a popular tool among athletes, military personnel, and fitness enthusiasts seeking an effective and challenging full-body workout. Due to the nature of their use, some features of chest plates can come into contact with the exerciser's body parts. Therefore, the chest plates have been modified to provide relief to certain areas of a user's body when the chest plate is being implemented in exercises.

Referring now to,is a front view of a chest plate, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.is top-down view of the chest plateshown in.is a rear view of the chest plateshown in.is a left side view of the chest plateshown in.is a right-side view of the chest plateshown in.is a bottom-up view of the chest plateshown in.

The chest platecomprises a front surface. In the embodiment shown in, the front surfaceis the portion of the chest platethat is typically considered the front of the chest plate. The front surfaceis gradually curved vertically and horizontally and can have indicia indicating the weight, manufacturer, or other information regarding the chest plate. Opposite to the front surface, shown in, is rear surface. The curvature of the front surfaceand the rear surfaceis such that it approximates the structure of a person's chest. The chest platehas a gradual or subdued curve, vertically and horizontally.

The chest platesdisclosed herein may be constructed from various materials to enhance durability and functionality during weighted backpack training. These materials include but are not limited to steel, cast iron, rubber-coated steel, and dense plastics or polymers. Steel plates provide sturdiness and weight, ideal for providing substantial resistance without excessive bulk. Similarly, cast iron plates offer durability and density. Rubber-coated steel plates combine durability with protective features, safeguarding both the plate and carriers. Chest plates made from dense plastics or polymers offer a lighter alternative while still providing weight for effective training. The selection of material depends on factors such as weight, durability, cost, and environmental resistance, ensuring versatility in meeting diverse user preferences and training requirements. Chest platesmay weigh between 5 lbs. (2.27 kg) and 15 lbs. (6.80 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be 6.25 lbs. (2.83 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be 9.25 lbs. (4.20 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be 12.25 lbs. (5.55 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be 14.25 lbs. (6.46 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be greater than 15 lbs. (6.80 kg). In an embodiment, the chest platemay be less than 5 lbs. (2.83 kg).

The front surfacehas a top edgeand a bottom edge. Extending between the top edgeand the bottom edgeare first side edgeand second side edge. The top edgehas a chin relief structure. The chin relief structureis a depressed portion of the top edge. The chin relief structureis formed as a “U” shape and extends across the top of the chest plate. The chin relief structureextends in a downward slope from one side of the top edge, such as the side of the top edgeproximate to first side edge, towards the middle of the chest plate.

In the embodiment shown in, the middle of the chest plateis gradually curved, both vertically and horizontally. The chin relief structurethen slopes upwardly towards the other portion of the top edgeproximate to second side edge. This forms a depression in the chest platethat is adapted to accommodate movement of a user's chin during exercise. In an embodiment, there is more material forming the chest platelocated proximate to the top edgethan to the bottom edge.

The first side edgeextends from the top edgeto the bottom edge. The second side edgeextends from the top edgeto the bottom edge. The first side edgeand the second side edgeeach have a shoulder relief portion. The shoulder relief portionis formed from the same material as the chest plate. In an embodiment, the shoulder relief portionmay have material adapted to cushion the user or serve as bumper between the user and the harder portions of the chest plate.

The shoulder relief portioncomprises shoulder angle portions),(), and(). Shoulder angle portion() extends at an angle from the top edgeto shoulder angle portion(). Shoulder angle portion() extends downwardly and inwardly to shoulder angle portion(). Shoulder angle portion() extends downwardly and outwardly. The shoulder angle portion() and the shoulder angle portion() form an angle α.

In, angle α is formed by shoulder angle portion() and shoulder angle portion() is an obtuse angle. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than 45 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than 60 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than 90 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than 120 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than 150 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is between 125-135 degrees. In an embodiment, the angle is between 115-125 degrees. The shoulder relief portion is adapted to accommodate movement of a user's shoulders during exercise.

The first side edgeand the second side edgeextend from their respective shoulder angle portions() to the bottom edge. The first side edgeand the second side edgeextends outwardly to the bottom edge. Bottom edgeis curved. The curvature of the bottom edgeprovides a less abrupt interface when a user is exercising.

In the central region of the chest plate, an openingis formed between the front surfaceand the rear surface. The opening, together with the diaphragm relief structureaccommodates movement of a user's diaphragm during exercises. The diaphragm relief structureforms an arc that is located below the chin relief structureand the shoulder relief structuresthat frames a portion of the opening.

Referring to, the width Wbetween each of the ends of the shoulder angle portions() is less than the width Wof the bottom edge. In an embodiment, Wis between 8-10 inches (20.32 cm to 25.4 cm). In an embodiment, Wis about 9 inches (22.86 cm). In an embodiment, Wis less than 10 inches (25.4 cm). The width Wis determined based on the size and weight of the chest plate. The width Wis adapted to support the relief structures.

In an embodiment, Wis between 10-12 inches (25.4 cm to 30.48 cm). In an embodiment, Wis about 10 inches (25.4 cm). In an embodiment, Wis less than 11 inches (27.94 cm). The width Wis determined based on the size and weight of the chest plate. The width Wis adapted to support the relief structures.

In the embodiment shown inand referring to, the diaphragm relief structuresform an openingthat has a length Land a width W. In the embodiment shown inthe width Wof the openingis about.inches and the length Lis about 7.02 inches.

Referring to, shown is a chest platethat has diaphragm relief structureforming opening. The openinghas a length that is larger than the length Lof the opening. This forms a larger openingfor the diaphragm relief structureand results in a lower overall weight for the chest plateversus the chest plate. The length of the openingis also larger than the width Wof the opening. This additionally results in an overall lower weight for the chest plateversus the chest plate.

As shown in, the length of the chest plateis L. In an embodiment, Lis about 12.5 inches (31.75 cm). In an embodiment, Lis less than 20 inches (50.8 cm). In an embodiment, Lis between 8-14 inches (20.3 cm to 35.6 cm). The length Lis determined based on the size and weight of the chest plate. Additionally, the length Lis adapted to accommodate the relief structures of the chest plate.

As shown in, the thickness Tbetween front surfaceand the rear surfaceis between 0.5 to 3 inches (1.3 cm to 7.6 cm). In an embodiment, the thickness Tis between 1 and 2 inches (2.5 cm and 5.1 cm). In another embodiment, the thickness Tis between 1.1 and 1.4 inches (2.8 cm and 3.5 cm).

Referring now to, shown is chest plate. The chest platehas sternum relief structureformed. The sternum relief structureis a depressed area that is located on the rear surface. The sternum relief structureextends from the chin relief structureto the diaphragm relief structure. The sternum relief structurehas less material located in the area where the sternum of a user would come into contact with the chest plate. The sternum relief structuredisplaces surface pressure to the sides of the chest plateto that it does not touch the bone.

In an embodiment, the sternum relief structurehas padding. In an embodiment, the sternum relief structureis coated in fabric. In an embodiment, the sternum relief structurehas a layer of pliable material. In an embodiment, a rubber or polyurethane coating is placed in the sternum relief structureof the chest plate. In an embodiment a rubber or polyurethane coating is placed on the sternum relief structureof the chest plate. A soft rubber or polyurethane coating on metal plates provides a cushioning effect, reducing the risk of injuries. In an embodiment a neoprene coating may be used to provide resistance to abrasion. In an embodiment, a vinyl coating may be used to provide a soft and smooth texture. In an embodiment, a urethane coating can be used to provide durability and flexibility. In an embodiment, a HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) can be used. In an embodiment foam padding can be used. In an embodiment, a silicone coating can be used. In an embodiment, a nitrile coating can be used to provide a soft and flexible layer.

Wherever possible, the same or like reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like features. It should be noted that the drawings are in simplified schematic form and are not drawn to precise scale. Certain terminology is used in the description is for convenience only and is not limiting. Directional terms such as top, bottom, left, right, above, below and diagonal, are used with respect to the accompanying drawings. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the identified element and designated parts thereof. Such directional terms used in conjunction with the following description of the drawings should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any manner not explicitly set forth. Additionally, the term “a,” as used in the specification, means “at least one.” The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

“Substantially” as used herein shall mean considerable in extent, largely but not wholly that which is specified, or an appropriate variation therefrom as is acceptable within the field of art. “Exemplary” as used herein shall mean serving as an example.

“About” as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, ±1%, or ±0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate.

Throughout this disclosure, various embodiments of the present invention can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 2.7, 3, 4, 5, 5.3, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages and characteristics of exemplary embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the art will recognize, in light of the description herein, that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the present disclosure.

While the disclosure is described herein, using a limited number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as otherwise described and claimed herein. The precise arrangement of various elements and order of the steps of articles and methods described herein are not to be considered limiting. For instance, although the steps of the methods are described with reference to sequential series of reference signs and progression of the blocks in the figures, the method can be implemented in an order as desired.