Weight stack pushup exercise device

Abstract

An exercise machine is provided for developing the chest muscles while maintaining correct biomechanical posture and joint movement for the user, thereby maximizing efficiency and safety. The exercise machine includes a track on which two platforms independently slide. The platforms are each interconnected to a weight stack unit or other vertical resistance unit that provide resistance to the inward movement of the platforms. Each platform may also be connected to a tension element or resistance band that is configured to provide gradual and progressively increased resistance as the platforms are moved inwardly towards the center or center stop of the track.

Claims

1. An exercise machine, comprising: a cross-member having a center point, a first distal end, and a second distal end opposite the first distal end, the cross-member having coupled thereto a first platform on a first distal end side of the center point and a second platform on a second distal end side of the center point, the first and second platform each being configured to slide along the cross-member between an inner position that is towards the center point and an outer position that is towards the corresponding distal end, said cross-member further comprising a center stop positioned at the center point, the center stop limiting an inward movement of the first and second platforms; and a vertical resistance unit coupled to the first distal end of the cross-member, the vertical resistance unit being operably connected to the first and second platforms via a system of pulleys and a cable, wherein the vertical resistance unit provides resistance as at least one of the first and second platforms are slid from the outer position to the inner position, wherein the vertical resistance unit is a weight stack unit having weight stack plates that are lifted when the first or second platforms are slid from the outward position to the inward position.

2. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the cross-member includes a first outer stop positioned at the first distal end and a second outer stop positioned at the second distal end, the first and second outer stops limiting the outward movement of the first and second platforms respectively.

3. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the cross-member includes a first track to which the first platform is coupled and a second track to which the second platform is coupled.

4. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the cross-member includes a channel within which the first and second platforms are coupled.

5. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first and second platforms each include a handle.

6. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein each platform comprises an adjustment plate and a housing that is slidably coupled to the adjustment plate.

7. The exercise machine of claim 6, wherein the housing is configured to be coupled to the adjustment plate in multiple different positions thereby allowing the outer position of the corresponding platform to be adjusted.

8. The exercise machine of claim 1, further comprising: a first mount formed at each of the first distal end and the second distal end; a second mount formed on each of the first platform and the second platform; a first resistance band coupled between the first mount formed at the first distal end and the second mount formed on the first platform; and a second resistance band coupled between the first mount formed at the second distal end and the second mount formed on the second platform.

9. The exercise machine of claim 8, wherein the first and second mounts are positioned to cause the resistance bands to be contained within the cross-member.

10. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the system of pulleys of the resistance unit includes a first pulley coupled to the vertical resistance unit in a manner that allows the first pulley to swivel, and wherein the cable is coupled to the vertical resistance unit and is detachable from the corresponding platform.

11. The exercise machine of claim 10, wherein the first pulley is located at a bottom of the vertical resistance unit.

12. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the vertical resistance unit is positioned at an angle, other than a ninety degree angle, with respect to the cross-member.

13. The exercise machine of claim 5, wherein the handle of the first and second platforms is centered overtop the cross-member.

14. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein each platform includes an adjustment plate and a housing that slides overtop the adjustment plate to allow the platform to be positioned in a number of different outer positions, the housing containing a spring that is coupled to the adjustment plate to facilitate sliding the housing overtop the adjustment plate.

15. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein at least one of the platforms includes a loop to which a handle can be coupled.

16. An exercise machine comprising: a cross-member having a center point, a first distal end, and a second distal end; a weight stack unit coupled to the first distal end, the weight stack unit including a plurality of weight stack plates; a first platform coupled to the cross-member on a first distal end side of the center point, the first platform being configured to slide along the cross-member, the first platform being coupled to the weight stack unit such that movement of the first platform towards the center point of the cross-member causes at least one of the plurality of weight stack plates to be lifted to provide resistance to the movement; a second platform coupled to the cross-member on a second distal end side of the center point, the second platform being configured to slide along the cross-member, the second platform being coupled to the weight stack unit such that movement of the second platform towards the center point of the cross-member causes at least one of the plurality of weight stack plates to be lifted to provide resistance to the movement; and a center stop positioned at the center point and configured to limit an inward movement of the first and second platforms.

17. An exercise machine comprising: a cross-member having a center point, a first distal end, and a second distal end, the cross-member including a channel that extends along a length of the cross-member; a first platform coupled within the channel on a first distal end side of the center point, and configured to slide within the channel from a first outward position towards the first distal end and a first inward position towards the center point; a second platform coupled within the channel on a second distal end side of the center point, and configured to slide within the channel from a second outward position towards the second distal end and a second inward position towards the center point; a vertical resistance unit coupled to the first distal end, the vertical resistance unit comprising a top pulley coupled to a top portion of the vertical resistance unit, a first bottom pulley coupled to a bottom portion of the vertical resistance unit, and a second bottom pulley coupled to the second distal end of the cross-member, the vertical resistance unit containing a source of resistance, the vertical resistance unit further comprising a cable having a first end coupled to the source of resistance, a second end coupled to the first platform, and a third end coupled to the second platform, such that inward movement of the first or second platforms causes the source of resistance to be lifted.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the various drawings are for illustrative purposes only. The nature of the present invention, as well as other embodiments of the present invention, may be more clearly understood by reference to the following detailed description of the invention, to the appended claims, and to the several drawings.

(2) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a weight stack pushup exercise machine in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the weight stack unit of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(4) FIG. 3 is a perspective end view of the weight stack unit of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 showing the pulley system in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(5) FIG. 4 is a detailed, perspective side view of the handle and platform assembly of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 shown in a starting position in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(6) FIG. 5 is a detailed, perspective side view of the handle and platform assembly of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 shown in a starting position in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(7) FIG. 6 is a detailed, perspective bottom and side view of the handle and platform assembly of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 shown in a starting position in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(8) FIG. 7 is a perspective side view of the handle and platform assembly of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 shown in a maximally contracted position in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the weight stack unit of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 showing the handle and platform assembly in a maximally extended position in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(10) FIGS. 9A-9D demonstrate the proper use of the weight stack pushup exercise machine of FIG. 1 through various perspective front views in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(11) FIG. 9E illustrates a perspective front view of weight stack pushup exercise machine having two handles coupled to a single vertical resistance unit via one or more pulleys and cables in accordance with a representative embodiment of the present invention.

(12) FIGS. 10-12 provide detailed perspective views which illustrate alternate configurations of various components of the weight stack exercise machine of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(13) The present invention relates to exercise machines. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine that combines the motions of a pushup with a dumbbell fly with the user in a prone or pushup position. The exercise machine comprises various features to ensure proper biomechanical motion of the user thereby preventing injury and maximizing efficiency in muscular development. The exercise machine further comprises weight stacks which are configured to apply adjustable resistance to the motion of the user while using the exercise machine. The exercise machine further includes one or more resistance bands which are interposedly coupled between a stationary and a moving part of the exercise machine to provide dynamic resistance to the motion of the user while using the machine.

(14) The present disclosure further relates to apparatuses, systems, and methods related to exercising the muscles of the chest, shoulder and triceps. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the embodiments herein described, while illustrating certain embodiments, are not intended to so limit this disclosure or the scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art will also understand that various combinations or modifications of the embodiments presented herein can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Definitions

(15) As used herein, the term arc structure is understood to describe the anatomical structure of skeletal muscles within the human body. In particular, arc structure describes the orientation of muscle tissue in the body which results from a portion of the muscle being attached to a stable bone, and another portion of the muscle being attached to a mobile bone. Maximum muscle development is achieved when resistance to and movement of a muscle group utilizes the arc structure of that muscle group.

(16) As used herein, the term biomechanically correct is understood to describe a condition or motion where the natural, anatomical movement of the muscles, joints, arc structure, bone structure, and posture of the user is maintained during the fulfillment of an exercise.

(17) As used herein, the terms prone position or pushup position are understood to describe a position of the user's body when using an exercise machine disclosed herein, wherein the user's body is supported above the ground in a generally horizontal position by the user's hands and toes which are in contact with the ground. These terms may also describe a position of the user's body wherein the user's body is supported above the ground in a generally horizontal position by the user's hands and knees which are in contact with the ground.

(18) Some embodiments of the present invention provide an exercise machine configured to combine several exercise movements into a single device. In particular, some exercise machines of the present invention combine the movements of a bench press, dumbbell press, cable crossovers, flyes, Pec Deck, and pushups into a single device. The exercise machines of the present invention further provide various adjustable components whereby the user may fit the machine to their individual anatomy, thereby achieving biomechanically correct movement and resistance to their isolated muscle groups. Thus, embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are biomechanically correct to facilitate maximum development, comfort, safety, and enjoyment for the user.

(19) Some embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure provide an exercise machine that is safe for use. Specifically, some exercise machines of the present invention provide resistance or workload that is consistent, gradual, and progressive, thereby allowing the body to adapt as it moves through the range of motion. The gradual increase of tension eliminates jerky and ballistic movements which may result in injury. Also, the resistance provided by the exercise machine is applied equally and independently to both sides of the user's body. As such, each side of the user's body is required to carry its own workload, thus increasing the effectiveness of workout and muscle development.

(20) Some embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure further provide an exercise machine that maximizes effectiveness to the user. Some designs of the present invention provide full range of motion for the user, whereby both arms of the user are required to push or pull against a resistance, thereby optimally contracting the muscles of the chest, shoulders, and triceps. The exercise machine further provides biomechanically correct posture to the user throughout the user's movements on the machine. In some instances, the exercise machine is configured to flow with the structures of the user's body without creating discomfort or awkward movements. The exercise machine is thus configured to accommodate the joint structure, joint motion, muscular arc structure, and posture of the user to maximize efficiency and comfort.

(21) The embodiments of the present invention are further designed to eliminate friction in each movement of the exercise machine. Thus, the present invention provides the user with smooth and comfortable transitions in the movements of the machine. Further, the exercise machines of the present invention comprise a simple construction and layout that is easily and readily understood by the user. Thus, a user may easily and accurately perform exercise movements on the machine and achieve the desired results.

(22) The embodiments of the present invention further include a weight stack unit that permits a user to select a weight amount that is applied to the movement of the machine during use. The weight stack unit includes a plurality of weight stack plates that may be selectively applied to the motion of the handle and platform assemblies to increase resistive force throughout the motion of the machine.

(23) The embodiments of the present invention further include tension elements or resistance bands to reduce or correct ballistic movements and stresses that may otherwise be experienced by the user during use of the machine. The resistance bands provide dynamic, increasing resistance throughout the movement of the machine. Weight stack machines are typically designed so that the active or moving weight stack plates are maximally distanced from the stationary weight stack plates when the user achieve the maximum motion or position of the machine (i.e., for a bench press machine, this maximum motion or position would be achieved when the user's elbows are maximally extended). For a typical weight stack machine (and free-weights, for that matter) the maximum effective resistance experienced by the user occurs at the beginning of the motion and gradually reduces as the user achieves the maximum motion or position. This is due to the biomechanical physiology of the body's musculoskeletal configuration. In contrast, the effective resistance of the resistance bands increases as the user advances from the beginning to the maximum motion or position. Thus, the inclusion of the resistance bands with the weight stack plates ensures that a maximum effective resistance is experienced by the user throughout the entire motion of the machine (i.e., as the effective resistance of the weight stack plates decreases, the effective resistance of the resistance bands increases).

(24) Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, a weight stack pushup exercise machine 10 is shown. Exercise machine 10 comprises a cross-member 20 on which is mounted a track 30 for slidably receiving and maintaining first and second platforms 40 and 50, respectively. In some instances, platforms 40 and 50 are secured to track 30 via a ball bearing interface 600. In some embodiments, platforms 40 and 50 are irremovably secured to track 30, wherein platforms 40 and 50 are incapable of being removed from track 30 during normal use of the machine 10. Cross-member 20 further comprises a center stop 22 to limit the maximum inward motions of platforms 40 and 50. Cross-member 20 further comprises outer stops 24 to set and maintain a starting position for platforms 40 and 50.

(25) Exercise machine 10 further comprises a first weight stack unit 60 and a second weight stack unit 70 coupled to first and second distal or outer ends of cross-member 20. Weight stack units 60 and 70 each comprise a frame 62 and 72 having sufficient structural integrity to support a plurality of weight stack plates 80. Weight stack plates 80 slide upwardly and downwardly within frames 62 and 72 along guide rods 64 via a selector shaft 66, cable 68, and system of pulleys 90, as is commonly utilized in weight stack machines and as shown in FIGS. 1-3.

(26) In some embodiments, platforms 40 and 50 further comprise a handle 42 and 52 which are configured to support a user's palm. Handles 42 and 52 are fixedly coupled to platforms 40 and 50, respectively, such that a user may slidably change the position of platforms 40 and 50 along track 30 by gripping and laterally moving handles 42 and 52. Handles 42 and 52 may be fixed in position where a central axis of the handle is parallel to track 30, as shown, or in a position where the central axis is perpendicular to track 30. In some embodiments, handles 42 and 52 are rotationally coupled to platforms 40 and 50. In some instances, handles 42 and 52 may be fixed in any desired position of axial rotation relative to platforms 40 and 50, respectively.

(27) Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, platform assembly 40 comprises a housing 44 having a channel into which an adjustment plate 46 is slidably and selectively inserted. In some embodiments, adjustment plate 46 comprises a plurality of adjustment holes 48 that are aligned with a spring-loaded selector pin 49 forming a portion of housing 44. Adjustment plate 46 may be slid within the channel of housing 44 to select a desired position of handle 42 with respect to center stop 22. Accordingly, the adjustability of adjustment plate 46, adjustment holes 48 and selector pin 49 permit the user to select a maximum distance between the handles.

(28) Adjustment plate 46 further comprises a distal end 45 having an aperture for receiving a terminal end of cable 68. Distal end 45 further comprises a catch 47 that extends outwardly from a side profile of adjustment plate 46 so as to contact outer stop 24, thus limiting the movement of platform 40 in the outward direction.

(29) In some embodiments, platform 40 further comprises a first mount 100 for receiving a first terminal end of a tension element or resistance band 110. Cross-member 20 further comprises a second mount 200 for receiving a second terminal end of resistance band 110. Resistance band 110 applies tension between platform 40 and cross-member 20, wherein the tension force is transferred to cable 68 and the user, as platform 40 is slid inwardly towards center stop 22, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

(30) FIGS. 10-12 illustrate alternate configurations of various components of exercise machine 10. These alternate configurations can be used in conjunction with the other components of exercise machine 10 as described above. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, cross-member 20 may include a channel 30A rather than tracks 30 within which the platforms slide. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a platform 40A can be configured with suitable sliding components (not visible) which are slidably contained within channel 30A. In such embodiments, platform 40A can slide in channel 30A in the same manner as platform 40 slides along channel 30 as described above.

(31) One benefit of employing channel 30A is that it allows resistance band 110 to be positioned within cross-member 20 as shown in FIG. 11. In particular, the ends of cross-member 20 can include an opening 1101 through which resistance band 110 can extend. One end of resistance band 110 can be anchored within second mount 200, which may be an opening in cross-member extension 20A as shown in FIG. 11, while the other end of resistance band 110 may be anchored to first mount 100 formed on a portion of platform 40A that is positioned within channel 30A. As shown in FIG. 11, cross-member extension 20A can be angled from cross-member 20 so that second mount 200 is aligned with the center of cross-member 20. In this way, resistance band 110 can run parallel with and be centered below platform 40A.

(32) Housing 44 of platform 40A is shown as containing a spring 1001 that is coupled to the end of adjustment plate 46. Spring 1001 provides a biasing force to assist in adjusting the position of housing 44 along adjustment plate 46. In the orientation depicted in FIG. 10, spring 1001 would provide a pulling force on housing 44 to bias it in a rightward direction. This pulling force would make it easier to adjust platform 40A in a wider position, or, in other words, spring 1101 facilitates sliding housing 44 further overtop adjustment plate 46.

(33) Platform 40A also includes a loop 1002 on the inside end of the platform. Loop 1002 can be used to connect a separate handle or other structure to platform 40A to facilitate performing bicep curls, triceps extensions, or other similar exercises on exercise machine 10. Also, in platform 40A, handle 42, housing 44, and adjustment plate 46 are aligned unlike in platform 40 where housing 44 and adjustment plate 46 are offset from handle 42.

(34) As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in some embodiments, weight stack units 60 can be positioned at a non-ninety-degree angle from cross-member 20. For example, weight stack units 60 can be angled so that the weight stack units face towards the user's body while the user is performing the exercise.

(35) FIG. 12 also illustrates that a pulley 90A positioned at the bottom of weight stack unit 60 can be configured to swivel. Also, cable 68 can be divided into two separable portions. A first portion 68A can be coupled to weight stack plates 80, while the second portion (not visible) can be coupled to platform 40A. The ends of these portions of cable 68 can be configured to selectively couple together (e.g., via a loop on one end and a carabiner on the other end). In this way, portion 68A can be detached to allow a handle or other structure to be attached to portion 68A. A user could then employ the handle to perform various exercises using weight stack unit 60 for resistance.

(36) Referring now to FIGS. 9A-9D, a method for maximizing the efficiency and safety of muscle development is shown. This method may be followed when using exercise device 10. Alternatively, this method may be provided as instruction when teaching a user how to properly use exercise device 10.

(37) In some embodiments, a method for maximizing the efficiency and safety of muscle development includes a first step of adjusting the distance between platforms 40 and 50 by adjusting and securing the positions of adjustment plates 46 within housing 44 via selector pin 49. This step sets the machine to provide a personal power position for the user. This step may further include a sub-step for determining the correct maximum distance by measuring the distance between the user's elbow creases when bent to approximately 90 while in the prone position, as shown in FIG. 9A. The user then grasps the handles of the exercise machine while in the prone position, with their elbows fully extended and the handles separated at the maximum distance, as shown in FIG. 9C. This may be referred to as the starting position. The user then bends their elbows to lower their chest towards the center stop 22 of the machine to a maximum depth, as shown in FIG. 9B. As the user lowers their chest, the user's humeri are abducted and rotated laterally, thereby opening their chest to achieve a full stretch. The user then extends their arms, thereby straightening their elbows and returning to the starting position, as shown in FIG. 9A.

(38) At this point the user adducts and rotates their humeri medially while maintaining the starting position. While holding the adducted and rotated position of the humeri, the user slides the handles medially inward towards the center stop 22, as shown in FIG. 9D. The user then returns the handles to the maximum distance while simultaneously abducting and rotating their humeri laterally, or the starting position shown in FIG. 9A. The motions shown in FIG. 9 may be referred to as one complete repetition.

(39) When performing the steps of the method shown in FIG. 9, the various positions and movements are performed as a single, continuous motion. The exercise takes place in two directions, namely, vertical and horizontal directions. Thus, the exercise according to the method shown in FIG. 9 may be described as having two vectors which creates two motions or two types of resistance in one positive fluid movement. The first or vertical movement is much like a pushup, wherein the user's arms are straight with the user's hands gripping the handles. The forearms should be generally parallel to one another during the vertical movement, i.e. the user's elbows should not go inside or outside of this position. The forearms should also be generally perpendicular or normal to the plane of the floor or surface on which the exercise machine is supported. At the top of the movement, or the starting position, the arms are fully extended. When the humeri are adducted and rotated medially, the chest should concave slightly.

(40) The second or horizontal movement involves the hands being brought together by sliding the handles inwardly towards the middle bridge. The arms are then returned to the starting position, thereby completing the repetition.

(41) As user gains increased strength during the course of an exercise program, the resistance of exercise machine 10 may be gradually increased to continue to provide an effective exercise for the user. Additional resistance may be provided by selecting weight stack plates using the weight stack pin. Dynamic resistance may be added by the use of one or more tensioning elements or resistance bands 110 which are placed into first and second mounts 100 and 200, as described above. Dependent upon the skill of the user, the exercise may be completed while being supported either on the knees or the toes. For the novice user, the exercise is completed with the user's knees in contact with the floor and in close proximity to the exercise machine. Increased resistance is achieved as the user increases the distance between their knees and the exercise machine.

(42) For the advanced user, the exercise is completed with the user's body being supported solely by the user's hands and toes. Elastomeric bands or straps may further be placed across the back of the user to increase resistance during the first or vertical movement shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. For example, in some instances a middle portion of an elastomeric band or strap is positioned across the back of the user while each end of the strap is further secured to the exercise machine. In other instances, the middle portion of the elastomeric band or strap is positioned across the back of the user while each end of the strap is held by the user with the handle. Thus, as the user raises the body during the vertical movement, the additional elastomeric straps provide increased resistance to the movement.

(43) In some embodiments, the present invention comprises a weight stack pushup exercise machine 300 having two handles coupled to a single vertical resistance unit via a system comprising one or more pulleys and cables, as shown in FIG. 9E. The vertical resistance unit may comprise any type or kind of resistance unit disclosed herein. In some instances, the vertical resistance unit comprises a weight stack unit. In other instances, the vertical resistance unit comprises at least one of a number of resistance bands, one or more power rods, a hydraulic resistance system, and a system of free-weights.

(44) Exercise machine 10 may be used in an alternative orientation to exercise the biceps and triceps of the user. For example, to exercise the bicep, a desired number of weight stack plates is selected. The user kneels next to cross-member 20 such that the body of the user is parallel to the central axis of the length of cross-member 20. To exercise the bicep, the user orients their feet towards the weight stack unit 60 and grips the handle 42. The user positions their body such that their elbow is fully extended when gripping handle 42 in the starting or maximum outward position. The user then flexes their bicep to pulls handle 42 towards center stop 22, thereby contracting their bicep.

(45) To exercise their triceps, the user orients their head towards the weight stack unit 60 and grips handle 42. The user positions their body such that their elbow is fully flexed when gripping handle 42 in the starting position. The user then extends their elbow to push handle 42 towards center stop 22, thereby contracting their triceps.

(46) Exercise machine 10 may further be used to exercise the abdominal muscles of a user 400. First, a desired number of weight stack plates are selected. The user kneels over cross-member 20 with their head oriented towards weight stack unit 60. The user grips handle 42 with both hands and positions their body such that both elbows are fully extended and the user is bent at the waist when handle 42 is in the starting position. The user then pulls handle 42 towards center stop 22 while simultaneously contracting the user's abdominal muscles in an upward direction to curl and contract the abdomen. Alternatively, in embodiments where the platform includes a loop 1002, these exercises can be performed by connecting a separate handle to loop 1002 and gripping the separate handle rather than handle 42.

(47) Although exercise machine 10 has been described as employing weight stack unit 60 to provide resistance, other types of resistance units could be employed in place of weight stack unit 60 (generally vertical resistance unit). For example, rather than including weight stack plates 80, unit 60 could include a number of resistance bands, or power rods that can be selectively attached to cable 68 to vary the amount of resistance. In some instances, weight stack plates 80 are replaced with a hydraulic resistance system. In other embodiments, weight stack plates 80 are replaced with a system of free-weights.

(48) The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its structures, methods, or other essential characteristics as broadly described herein and claimed hereinafter. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.