DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MEASURING THE RATIO OF FORCE, VEHICLE AND POWER DURING MOTION IN IMMUNE-DEFENDED AND OVERLOADED CONDITIONS BY MEANS OF A HYDRAULIC SYSTEM WITH LIQUID CYLINDERS AND TRANSMISSION GEARS

Abstract

Device for measuring the relationship between force, speed and power during locomotion in the unloaded and overloaded state, characterized in that it comprises a hydraulic system arranged to generate resistance (overload) for an athlete in motion using the device, wherein the hydraulic system comprises - two hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) each with a threaded piston rod (31) and a piston (30) connected to hydraulic fluid separators (26), wherein the said hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) are connected to a housing, - a housing in which a hydraulic fluid flows through a system of channels and the aforementioned hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) and separators (26), wherein the channels are provided with pressure adjusting elements (25, 34, 35, 37) arranged to define a constricted area of ​​the channel system, wherein the pressure adjusting element (25) is used to regulate the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system, - two opposing hydraulic transmission gears (32) connected to the piston rod (31), and a main transmission gear (33) connected to a rope cylinder (6), wherein when the rope cylinder (6) rotates, the main transmission gear (33) rotates the hydraulic transmission gears (32), thereby generating a flow of fluid in the hydraulic system, - an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the magnitude of the repulsive force, wherein the adjustment mechanism includes inside a channel that accommodates a rigid rod (34) arranged to press on a spring (37) to increase or decrease the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system by influencing the force required to move the hydraulic fluid through the system, - a hydraulic pressure sensor (2) which is appropriately attached to the housing of the hydraulic system and which makes it possible to provide quantitative information about the pressure in the hydraulic system.

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of sports performance diagnostics and research equipment in kinesiology and human locomotion. The invention relates to a device that measures force, velocity, and power generated by an athlete during locomotion under unloaded or overloaded conditions. The device can be used to measure movement kinetics as a result of neuromuscular function during various cyclic movements. Secondly, it also serves as an advanced sports training device. Background of the invention and the technical problem

[0002] Physical performance is a crucial factor for success in all sports. To achieve optimal results, peak performance must be attained. However, this is only possible if efficient locomotion mechanics are maintained. The primary goal of sports diagnostics is therefore to determine these characteristics and assess an athlete's performance level. Based on this diagnostic assessment, a suitable training program can be designed or optimized to achieve the highest possible performance level. Among various neuromuscular kinetic performance parameters, power (P), which is simply the product of the force (F) generated and the velocity (v) of the movement / contraction, is one of the most important determinants.For this purpose, the mechanical capabilities of the human musculoskeletal system are measured during one (acyclic) or several (cyclic) successive movements involving one or more joints. Furthermore, the relationship between F, v, and P and their magnitudes during locomotion provide valuable information about the athlete's performance and the behavior of the musculoskeletal system.

[0003] In particular, the relationship between force and velocity (Fv) is hyperbolic during single-joint movements and changes to an inversely linear relationship when multi-joint movements are performed. Based on a simple mechanical equation and the already known parameters F and v, the power P generated during multi-joint movements is described as parabolic. Since these mechanical properties are also associated with individual morphological factors, neural mechanisms, and segmental dynamics, they have high predictive value for athletes' performance levels and high validity.

[0004] Based on F, v, and P measured during locomotion, the maximum theoretical values, representing the mechanical limits of the entire neuromuscular system, can be extrapolated. Furthermore, maximum power output (Pmax) can provide integrated information about locomotion efficiency. By analyzing these variables, an athlete's Fv profile can be determined for a variety of movements. The slope of the Fv-v ratio determines the dominance of force or speed. A steeper ratio is described as "force-dominant," while a shallower ratio is described as "speed-dominant."Considering the practical application of the device for training, a more optimal progression and load can be provided to train either strength (high force / load and low speed), power (optimal force / load and speed at which Pmax is observed) or speed (low force / load, high speed).

[0005] Although several methods for calculating the force-velocity profile (FvP) are theoretically well-established, practical application in training and research using valid measurement instruments is lacking in both science and practice. This is particularly evident in cyclical linear movement tasks such as running, sprinting, swimming, or skating. A device for measuring FvP during locomotion therefore offers two main advantages. Firstly, for research, it can provide valid and reliable quantitative data in real time and enables on-site monitoring. Secondly, for sports training, the device facilitates systematic training based on objective qualitative performance diagnostics and optimal training load. This type of training has already proven effective in terms of performance and injury prevention.

[0006] Consequently, the object of the invention is to provide a device that measures the force, speed, and power generated by an athlete during locomotion in an unloaded or overloaded state. In known devices, both the unloaded and overloaded states are achieved by an electric motor, which is not portable. Sometimes, manual braking systems such as rubber bands and pulleys are used instead of an electric motor, but these do not allow for measurements. The technical problem solved by the present invention is to provide an alternative arrangement that generates a repulsive and propulsive force during locomotion by a person using the system, wherein said arrangement enables measurements and a lightweight design ensures easy transport of the device. State of the art

[0007] A device according to patent application US 2010 / 0093493 A1 enables the deceleration of a runner, while a device described in patent application US 2014 / 0323270 A1 enables the acceleration and deceleration of an athlete during locomotion. Both devices use an electric motor to generate and modify the repulsive or propulsive force for the athlete in motion. However, neither device enables measurements of F, v, and / or P.

[0008] The device described in US document 5,813,945 A allows a swimmer to be accelerated or decelerated in order to measure the force generated by the swimmer during strokes. Similarly, patent US 6,454,679 B1 uses a treadmill that allows the runner to be accelerated or decelerated and measures the force and speed generated while moving on the treadmill. Again, both of these devices require an electric motor to generate resistance or assistance, which distinguishes them from the present invention.

[0009] Several additional portable devices were investigated for on-site evaluation of force-velocity ratios during cyclic movements. The 1080 SPRINT™ is a device for on-site sprint testing and training. An electric motor provides resistance and assistance during running. The device can be used to measure cyclic movements (e.g., running, swimming) and rapid changes of direction, such as those found in ball sports (e.g., soccer, basketball, and tennis). It records force and velocity and calculates power output. This device can provide up to 30 kg of horizontal sprint resistance.

[0010] In contrast, the Run Rocket™ is a portable device that provides unlimited additional resistance during movement by manually braking a flywheel. With its wide resistance range, it can be used in many sports (both running and jumping) and by athletes of varying fitness levels. The linear and consistent resistance allows for the development of increased speed, explosiveness, and agility. However, the applied load is displayed on a scale of 1 to 30, and the device does not allow for metric measurement of force, speed, and power during a specific movement.

[0011] Vertimax V8 EX™ is a device that provides additional resistance during movement. It can be used for various activities such as running or jumping. The resistance is generated by a series of elastic bands connected by a system of pulleys that slow the athlete in the direction of movement. However, this device does not allow for the measurement of force, speed, or power output.

[0012] US Patent 8,360,935 B2 describes a device for controlling a movable resistance element in an exercise machine. The resistance element is influenced by the user's muscle force.

[0013] In LAHTI, Johan, et al. Individual Sprint Force-Velocity Profile Adaptations to Inseason Assisted and Resisted Velocity-Based Training in Professional Rugby. Sports, 2020, Vol. 8, No. 5, p. 74, the hypothesis is investigated that the degree of adaptation to highly concentrated sprint training at opposite ends of the sprint force-velocity (FV) spectrum is related to the initial sprint FV profile in rugby players.

[0014] From US Patent 5,234,392 A, a hydraulic running track training device for training a runner is known, comprising a platform on which a user runs, wherein the forward movement of the runner is opposed by a predetermined variable resistance from spring-loaded hydraulic cylinders in a running platform and in a tethered post, and comprising a computer-generated scene of a runner moving along a road, with relevant information displayed on a screen. Description of the solution to the technical problem

[0015] The present invention solves the technical problem of simultaneously measuring the velocity and the magnitude of the force (F) acting on the athlete's body during a specific movement, such as running or swimming, as described in the independent claims. The invention enables valid on-site measurements of the variable Fv ratio. a) F0 - the maximum theoretical force, calculated on the basis of extrapolation of the regression line, at a velocity of 0, b) v0 - the maximum theoretical velocity, calculated on the basis of extrapolation of the regression line, at a theoretical force of 0, c) Pmax - the maximum theoretical power, calculated from F and V and d) the slope of the interpolated regression line.

[0016] The invention enables measurements under (1) overload conditions using a repulsive force exerted on the athlete during movement, or (2) unloading conditions using a driving force. Additionally, the invention allows for the evaluation of an optimal training load performed under such (un)loading conditions.

[0017] The core of the invention lies in the fact that the device comprises a hydraulic system that generates a force, thereby creating resistance (overload) for the athlete in motion. Additionally, the resistance value within the hydraulic system is measured, which, together with the speed of movement, enables a biomechanical analysis of locomotion. The resistance value is measured by an integrated pressure sensor, positioned to indirectly measure the effective force between the device and the athlete. However, the hydraulic system is only intended for generating the propulsive force, while the driving force is provided by any suitable known method, preferably with an electric motor. Such a solution is superior to known solutions for several reasons.First, hydraulics are cheaper than electric motors; second, hydraulics are purely mechanical, so no additional battery or electricity is needed to generate the repulsive force; and third, the hydraulic system delivers reliable and valid results for measuring force and speed. Furthermore, the device is easily transportable due to the lighter weight of its components, making on-site measurements and exercises possible.

[0018] The hydraulic system, which provides a repulsive force and measures the pressure generated in the hydraulic system, preferably comprises: - two hydraulic fluid cylinders, each with a threaded piston rod and a piston connected to hydraulic fluid separators, wherein the said cylinders are connected to a housing, - the case in which: a hydraulic fluid flows through a system of channels and two hydraulic fluid cylinders and separators mounted perpendicular to the housing, the cylinders being parallel to each other, the channels being provided with a pressure adjusting element arranged to define a constricted area of ​​the channel system, the pressure adjusting element being used to regulate the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system; - two opposing hydraulic transmission gears connected to the piston rod, and a main transmission gear connected to the hydraulic cylinder, wherein when the cylinder rotates the main transmission gear rotates the hydraulic transmission gears, thereby creating a flow of fluid in the hydraulic system, - an adjusting mechanism for adjusting the magnitude of the repulsive force, wherein the adjusting mechanism includes inside a channel that accommodates a rigid rod arranged to press on a spring in order to increase or decrease the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system by influencing the force required to move the hydraulic fluid through the system, - a hydraulic pressure sensor that is appropriately attached to the housing of the hydraulic system and that makes it possible to provide quantitative information about the pressure in the hydraulic system.

[0019] The described hydraulic system can generate a horizontal resistance of up to 50 kg, whereby the resistance value is measured with the pressure sensor and / or at least estimated based on the theoretical equation.

[0020] The device for measuring force and speed (i.e., the ratio of force, speed, and power) during locomotion comprises the hydraulic system described above and further includes the following components: - a metal housing in which a cylinder is provided for winding and unwinding a rope, preferably a steel rope or a climbing rope, wherein the rope can be attached to the person using the device in any known way, - a stationary support consisting of two horizontal telescopic metal rods onto which the metal housing is placed, the horizontal metal rods being connected on each side to a front vertical metal rod (thus forming the legs of the device), which are fitted at the very end with a pair of wheels, - a mounting module used for fixing to various test fields, wherein the mounting platform is attached to two of the rear vertical metal bars of the stationary support using hinges or similar elements; - an electric motor for generating motive power in unloaded movement, wherein the electric motor is attached to one side of the metal housing; - a threaded spindle connected via a belt drive to a rope cylinder spindle and further to an electric motor spindle; - a rope guide assembly (lark spindle) wherein two pulleys are arranged on the metal modules which are attached to the trapezoidal threaded nut which is attached to the threaded spindle, wherein the main function of a lark spindle is to reduce friction when the steel rope exits the device; - a rotary encoder sensor, mounted perpendicular to the lateral metal housing block at the end of the threaded spindle, to detect the rotation of the rope cylinder due to the unwinding of the steel rope, - an amplifier attached to the side metal housing and directly connected to an electronic device and to the sensors to capture the signals from the pressure sensor and the rotary encoder, capturing the data at a frequency of 1000 Hz and transmitting the signals to the electronic device, preferably via cable or Bluetooth.

[0021] The position of the steel cable is measured by a rotary encoder (rotation sensor) that is mounted on the axis of the cable cylinder.

[0022] The fasteners can be arranged to allow attachment to a sports track, a wall or fence, or a pool edge. These three different designs of fasteners can be constructed as follows: - in the case of an athletics track, the fastening means comprise a fastening platform with a spike coating attached to the underside of the platform, and a system of weights arranged on the top of the platform, the spikes being provided to ensure friction between the device and the athletics track; - For a climbing wall or fence, the mounting platform must be aligned vertically with the rear vertical metal bars using the hinge mentioned above, the fasteners comprising a short linear guide housing attached to the side of the rear vertical metal bars and a long linear guide housing attached to the side of the mounting platform, as well as four clamps that can be manipulated in a vertical direction to grip the rungs; - For a pool edge, the fastening means consist of telescopic horizontal metal rods, a tension screw for selecting the length of the horizontal metal rods, front vertical metal rods and rear vertical metal rods, the inside and underside of the rods being coated with rubber.

[0023] The steel cable is wound around the cable cylinder and runs through the lark spindle, which is attached to the threaded spindle. At the end, the steel cable is attached to an adjustable belt worn by an athlete or a person training and / or taking measurements. During movement, the change in the length of the steel cable determines the possible speed and acceleration of linear locomotion. A lark spindle consists of a system of two bearing rollers through which the cable runs. The rollers are positioned to minimize friction on the steel cable and allow for smooth unwinding. When the steel cable is pulled, the cable cylinder rotates synchronously with the threaded spindle due to the rotational transmission of the belt drive mechanism. This rotation of the threaded spindle moves the lark spindle in the unwinding direction of the steel cable, ensuring that the cables are not obscured during unwinding.The rotation of the rope cylinder drives a hydraulic gearbox, which moves the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic system. The level of the repulsive force is regulated by tightening or loosening a rigid rod, which creates a preload on a spring. This spring preload must be exceeded to maintain the flow of fluid. This mechanism manipulates the force required to move the fluid and thus adjusts the level of repulsive force exerted on the athlete.

[0024] Sensors are used to obtain quantitative information about the pressure in the hydraulic system and the position of the steel cable. The rotation of the cable cylinder is indirectly detected by a suitable sensor, such as an electromagnetic or similar sensor type, a so-called rotary encoder, which is mounted at the end perpendicular to the intersection of the threaded spindle axis. The pressure in the hydraulic system is measured directly by the hydraulic pressure sensor. Due to the relationship between pressure and force in hydraulic systems, the magnitude of the repulsive force acting on the moving athlete can be measured precisely and accurately. An amplifier collects the signals from the pressure sensor and the rotary encoder, capturing the data at 1000 Hz and transmitting the signals to the electronic device, preferably via cable or Bluetooth.To ensure that the data collected by the two sensors can be used for further analysis, they operate synchronously. Raw data connections make it possible to synchronize different signals from different types of devices.

[0025] A method for measuring the relationship between force, speed, and power during locomotion in the unloaded and overloaded states can be carried out as follows: 1. In case of overloaded (repulsive) condition: - The steel cable is attached to the athlete, preferably using a strap, - as soon as the athlete begins to move (e.g. running or swimming), a specific, preset repulsive force is applied in the opposite direction of movement; - Sensors detect the rotation of the rope cylinder and the pressure in the hydraulic system, - Speed ​​and magnitude of force are measured synchronously at a frequency of 1000 Hz from the beginning to the end of each movement; - Data from the sensors is sent to the electronic elements, possibly to a computer, tablet or smartphone, where the data is processed, analyzed and presented to the coach or athlete as feedback; - After the movement is completed, the athlete returns to the baseline and the electric motor is used to wind the rope onto the rope cylinder. 2. In the unloaded (drive) state, the procedure is carried out as follows: - The steel cable is attached to the front of the adjustable strap; - when the athlete starts moving, a preset drive in the direction of movement is generated by the electric motor, which winds the steel cable onto the cable cylinder; - Sensors detect the rotation of the rope cylinder, - Movement speed and magnitude of driving force are measured synchronously at a frequency of 1000 Hz from the beginning to the end of each movement; - The data from the sensors is sent to the electronic elements, possibly to a computer, tablet or smartphone, where the data is processed, analyzed and presented to the coach or athlete as feedback; - After completing the movement, the athlete returns to the baseline by unwinding the rope.

[0026] The device primarily measures the pressure in the piston of the hydraulic system and the change in rope length over time. There is a direct linear relationship between the pressure in the piston and the force, allowing the force to be determined, while the change in rope length over time enables the calculation of the velocity. Secondly, the force and velocity can be measured over time, with the product of force and velocity yielding power. Finally, the device allows the determination of quantities such as Pmax, v0, and F0 using established calculation methods.

[0027] The measurement or training protocol can be created as needed. To measure the force-v-point ratio (FvP) during linear locomotion, 3 to 5 repetitions of a movement are typically performed at the desired distance and load. The mean of all repetitions or the best repetitions can then be used as the basis for calculating the Fv profile parameters. The load can be precisely adjusted by tightening or loosening a braking force adjustment mechanism.

[0028] The invention enables valid and reliable force application and aids in exercise planning. Its simple design and relatively small size enhance the device's user-friendliness. It is portable and allows for on-site measurements using a technical solution for performance evaluation procedures and exercises. This enables the performance of demanding swimming, running, or skating exercises and precise Fv profile measurements under various conditions.

[0029] The device for measuring the relationship between force, speed, and power during locomotion in unloaded and overloaded states is described in more detail using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1. A device for measuring the ratio of force, speed and power during locomotion in the unloaded and overloaded state. Fig. 2 The device (1) of the Fig. 1 with associated software connections (2). Fig. 3 A system of hydraulic cylinders that forms the main mechanical part - measuring part of the device of the Fig. Figure 1 represents the internal structure, shown as a cross-section on the first and second planes. The dashed line indicates the flow of the hydraulic fluid. Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b The reduction of friction by a larch spindle when a steel cable is not pulled exactly in a horizontal direction. Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 The device of the Fig. 1, which is used to measure sprints using a wall bar. Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 The use of the device of Fig. 1 for measuring sprints under push-off or propulsion conditions by mounting on the running track surface, on artificial turf or on any other flat surface. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 The use of the device of Fig. 1 for measurement during swimming under repulsion or propulsion conditions using a pool edge attachment system. Fig. 11 An example of the time course of force and velocity. Fig. 12 An example of the relationship between force, speed, and power. Fig. 13 An example of the relationship between load and speed. Fig. 14. A signal processing path. Fig. 15 A graphical representation of the functions of the device made of Fig. 1.

[0030] As in Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in section 2, the device for measuring force and speed during locomotion comprises the following components: - an electric motor 8 for generating the driving force required for the measurements during unloaded movement, wherein the electric motor 8 is attached to a metal housing 9, - a steel cable 7 (the usual length is 40 m) wound around a cable cylinder 6 with a constant radius, - a threaded spindle 5, which is connected via a belt drive to the rope cylinder spindle 21 and further to an electric motor spindle 22, - a larch spindle 4 attached to the threaded spindle 5, which makes it possible to unwind the steel cable 7 with low friction and in a straight direction, - a rotary encoder sensor 3, which is attached perpendicular to the end of the threaded spindle 5, - a hydraulic pressure sensor 2 attached to a hydraulic system 1, - an amplifier 23, which is attached to the inside of a metal housing 9 and is directly connected to the electronic devices 24 and the sensors, - a stationary housing of the device, comprising: o two lateral metal housing blocks 9, which are attached to a single underside metal block 20, which is supported by a construction of two horizontal telescopic metal rods 10, 11 - Various mounting modules for attachment to: o an athletics track, consisting of an adjustable mounting plate 14, which is attached to the rear vertical metal bars 15 by two hinges 17, spikes 41 and a system of weights 40; a climbing wall or fence, consisting of a shorter linear guide 38 and a longer linear guide 39, which are attached to the rear vertical metal bars 15 and the two ends of the mounting plate 14, respectively. Four clamps 16 are used, which grip the rungs; o a basin edge consisting of a rubber covering 18, which is attached to the inside and underside of the rear 15 and front 12 vertical metal rods and the horizontal metal rod with a larger diameter 10, and a tensioning screw 19 with which the horizontal telescopic metal rods 10, 11 can be adjusted to a desired length.

[0031] The in Fig. The hydraulic system shown in the image includes: - an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the size of the repulsive force, comprising two rigid rods 34, 35, a spring 37 and a fluid pressure regulator 25, - two hydraulic fluid separators 26 and hydraulic fluid cylinders 29, in which a threaded piston rod 30 and a piston 31 are connected, - a hydraulic fluid channel system through which the hydraulic fluid can flow in two planes (dotted line), wherein the channel system comprises the following: o a U-shaped hydraulic fluid channel which is connected to the cylinders 29 via separators 26, o a pressure equalization mechanism 36 with housing 27; o a liquid return channel 28; - two hydraulic transmission gearboxes 32, - and a main transmission gearbox 33 connected to the rope cylinder.

[0032] A lark spindle tree 4, as seen in the Fig. 4a and Fig. As shown in Figure 4b, the system allows the steel cable to unwind and roll smoothly in the desired direction. When the steel cable is pulled out of the horizontal line, the friction is reduced by the system. It consists of a trapezoidal threaded nut 4a, two vertical metal nut plates 4b, and two bearing rollers 4c, between which a steel cable 7 is guided.

[0033] The degree of assistance (i.e., the driving force) during propulsion is controlled by the electric motor 8, which rotates the rope cylinder spindle 21 and generates a driving force via a drive belt mechanism. Its secondary function is to wind a steel cable 6 onto the rope cylinder 6 when propulsion is complete.

[0034] The rotary encoder and the hydraulic pressure sensor serve to obtain quantitative information about the pressure in the hydraulic system 1 and the position (length) of the steel cable 7. This measurement data is used for the objective evaluation of the desired biomechanics of locomotion. The rotation of the cable cylinder 6 is detected indirectly by a sensor, i.e., an electromagnetic or similar sensor, referred to as the rotary encoder 3, which is mounted at its end perpendicular to the intersection of the axis of the threaded spindle 5. The pressure in the hydraulic system 1 is measured directly by the hydraulic pressure sensor 2. Due to the relationship between pressure and force in the hydraulic systems, the magnitude of the repulsive force acting on the moving athlete can be measured precisely and accurately.

[0035] An amplifier 23 collects the signals from the pressure sensor and the rotary encoder, acquiring the data at 1000 Hz and transmitting the signals to an electronic device 24, preferably via cable or Bluetooth. To make the collected data from the two sensors usable for further analysis, they operate synchronously. Raw data connections allow for the synchronization of different signals from various device types. The raw pressure and position data received from the sensors are further processed to calculate force and velocity over time from the smoothed data, as described in the Fig. 11 is shown. Furthermore, this is in Fig. The ratio of force, velocity, and power shown in Figure 12 is calculated for a specific locomotion under the desired load or unloading conditions. If data from at least two different load conditions are obtained, the load-velocity ratio is calculated as shown in Figure 12. Fig. 13 is shown, calculated and helps to define an optimal load for the exercise during the desired movement.

[0036] The mounting elements increase the device's usability in various environments, such as swimming pools, athletic tracks, artificial turf, etc. Furthermore, the applicability of on-site measurements is enhanced by the availability of various mounting options for the device shown in the figures. Firstly, the device can be simply screwed to the pool edge, as shown in the Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, shown, can be used for measurements or training in swimming. The device is placed on the edge and secured by a clamping screw 19. Secondly, the device can be attached to a climbing wall or fence in the gymnasium or stadium using a set of clamps 16 ( Fig. 5) The clamps can be adjusted vertically via the linear guides 38, 39. After setting the desired distance, the clamps are screwed in place so that the grippers grasp the rod and fix the device. Finally, the Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 the mounting plate 14 with spikes 41 and the weight system 40 for use of the device on athletic tracks, on ice, artificial turf or other soft surfaces.

[0037] A suitable design of the fastening elements is necessary for two main reasons. First, the device must meet the highest metrological and methodological standards to justify its use for scientific research purposes. Second, the fastening must allow force to be applied in the desired direction so that contrast training can be performed. Therefore, any suitable strap incorporating the strap fastening module 42 is suitable for use. The main purpose of this module is to ensure a stable and adjustable fixation that allows for correct force application. To maintain comfort during movement, durable and lightweight materials with a minimalist design are used so that the biomechanics of locomotion are not impaired.To improve the transportability of the device, a handle arranged on the mounting plate 14 and wheels 13 on the front vertical metal rods 12 are used to transport the device from one place to another.

[0038] Fig. 14 shows possible outputs of the device, which relate to the Fig. 11, Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 described parameters (numbers 2, 3, 4) which are determined based on the measurement of the position and pressure (number 1).

[0039] Fig.Figure 15 shows a graphical representation of the device's operation. An athlete places the belt around their waist, indirectly connecting them to the device's rope, and selects the appropriate function (propulsion / push-off). The electric motor controls the propulsion, while the hydraulic system controls the push-off force acting on the threaded spindle. The central processing unit tracks the athlete's position (via the rope) and the pressure over time (pressure sensor in the hydraulic system). Thus, force, power, and speed over time, as well as their relative values, can be determined and displayed on a suitable screen within the device.

Claims

[1] Device for measuring the ratio of force, speed and power during locomotion in the unloaded and overloaded state, characterized by that it comprises a hydraulic system arranged to create resistance (overload) for an athlete in motion using the device, wherein the hydraulic system comprises - two hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) each with a threaded piston rod (31) and a piston (30) connected to hydraulic fluid separators (26), wherein the said hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) are connected to a housing, - a housing in which a hydraulic fluid flows through a system of channels and the aforementioned hydraulic fluid cylinders (29) and separators (26), wherein the channels are provided with pressure adjusting elements (25, 34, 35, 37) arranged to define a constricted area of ​​the channel system, wherein the pressure adjusting element (25) is used to regulate the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system, - two opposing hydraulic transmission gears (32) connected to the piston rod (31), and a main transmission gear (33) connected to a rope cylinder (6), wherein when the rope cylinder (6) rotates, the main transmission gear (33) rotates the hydraulic transmission gears (32), thereby generating a flow of fluid in the hydraulic system, - an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the magnitude of the repulsive force, wherein the adjustment mechanism includes inside a channel that accommodates a rigid rod (34) arranged to press on a spring (37) to increase or decrease the repulsive force generated by the hydraulic system by influencing the force required to move the hydraulic fluid through the system, - a hydraulic pressure sensor (2) which is appropriately attached to the housing of the hydraulic system and which makes it possible to provide quantitative information about the pressure in the hydraulic system. [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the resistance value within the hydraulic system is measured with an integrated pressure sensor arranged to indirectly measure the repulsive and driving force between the device and the athlete. [3] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the device further includes: - a metal housing (9, 20) in which a cylinder is provided for winding and unwinding a rope, preferably a steel cable (7) or a climbing rope, wherein the rope can be attached to the person using the device in any known way, - a stationary support consisting of two horizontal telescopic metal rods (10, 11) onto which the metal housing is placed, the horizontal metal rods being connected on each side to a front vertical (12) metal rod, thus forming the legs of the device, which are fitted at the very end with a pair of wheels (13), - a mounting module used for fixing to various test fields, wherein the mounting platform (14) is attached to two of the rear vertical metal bars of the stationary support using hinges or similar elements; - an electric motor (8) for generating motive power in unloaded propulsion, wherein the electric motor is attached to one side of the metal housing (9); - a threaded spindle (5) which is connected via a belt drive to a rope cylinder spindle (21) and further to an electric motor spindle (22); - a rope guide assembly (lark spindle) (4) wherein two pulleys are arranged on the metal modules which are attached to the trapezoidal threaded nut which is attached to the threaded spindle, wherein the main function of a lark spindle is to reduce friction when the steel rope exits the device; - a rotary encoder sensor (3) which is mounted perpendicular to the lateral metal housing block at the end of the threaded spindle to detect the rotation of the rope cylinder due to the unwinding of the steel rope, - an amplifier (23) attached to the side metal housing and directly connected to an electronic device (24) and the sensors (2, 3) to capture the signals from the pressure sensor and the rotary encoder, the data being captured at 1000 Hz and the signals being transmitted to the electronic device, preferably via cable or Bluetooth. [4] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the mounting module: - is intended for use on an athletics track and consists of an adjustable mounting plate (14) which is attached to the rear vertical metal bars (15) by two hinges (17), spikes (41) and a system of weights (40); or - is intended for vertical mounting on wall bars or a fence and includes a shorter (38) and a longer linear guide (39) attached to the rear vertical metal bars (15) and to the two ends of the mounting plate (14), respectively, using four clamps (16) that grip the rungs; or - is provided for the pool edge, with a rubber coating (18) attached to the inside and underside of the rear (15) and front (12) vertical metal rods and the larger diameter horizontal metal rod (10), and a tension screw (19) attached to fix a smaller cross-section horizontal metal rod (11) to a desired length. [5] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the generation of the driving force is ensured in any known manner, preferably with an electric motor. [6] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the fastening elements (42) ensure a stable and secure attachment of the steel cable to an athlete. [7] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that - a mechanical module and a fastening module are made of non-flexible material, such as metallic materials, - a steel cable (7), preferably 40 m long, made of elastic materials such as steel or nylon, - the bearing tubes of the threaded spindle (21), the rope cylinder spindle (21) and the electric motor spindle (22) are preferably ball-bearing mounted and generate low friction, - an adjustable strap (42) made of durable and lightweight materials and designed to allow appropriate biomechanical movement and loading. [8] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the pressure sensors (2) and the rotary magnet sensor (3) are suitable for measuring the hydraulic pressure and rotation, which are aligned to send the data to the corresponding amplifier (23), where the signals are converted from analog to digital and further transmitted to an electronic device (24), preferably via cable or a Bluetooth module. [9] Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the data from the pressure sensor (2) and the rotary magnet sensor (3) are transmitted to an amplifier (23) and processed in an electronic device (24), obtaining the mean force, mean speed, mean power, force at each step and force-speed profile. [10] Method for measuring the ratio of force, speed and power during locomotion in the unloaded and overloaded state using the device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that it includes the following steps: - When the athlete is properly fixed in place, he begins to perform the desired task in the desired direction. - when the movement begins, the force and speed data from the sensors (2, 3) are sent to the electronic device (24) for processing and analysis. - when the movement is finished, the athlete returns to the starting position: o by manually unwinding the steel cable (7) when the drive conditions are met or o by winding the steel cable (7) with an electric motor (8) when repulsion conditions are present; wherein, in the case of an overloaded (repulsive) state, the following steps are carried out: - the steel cable (7) is attached to the athlete, preferably using an adjustable strap (42), - as soon as the athlete starts moving, e.g. running or swimming, a certain predetermined repulsive force is generated in the direction opposite to the direction of movement; - Sensors (2, 3) detect the rotation of the rope cylinder 6 and the pressure in the hydraulic system (1), - Speed ​​and magnitude of force are measured synchronously at a frequency of 1000 Hz from the beginning to the end of each movement; - Data from the sensors (2, 3) are sent to the electronic elements (24), possibly to a computer, tablet or smartphone, where the data are processed, analyzed and presented to the coach or athlete as feedback; - after the movement is completed, the athlete returns to the baseline and the electric motor (8) is used to wind the rope onto the rope cylinder. [11] Method according to claim 10, wherein the following steps are carried out in an unloaded (drive) state: - the steel cable (7) is attached to the front of the adjustable strap (42); - when the athlete begins to move, a preset drive in the direction of movement is applied by means of the electric motor (8), which winds the steel cable (7) onto the cable cylinder (6); - Sensors (3) detect the rotation of the rope cylinder (6), - Movement speed and magnitude of driving force are measured synchronously at a frequency of 1000 Hz from the beginning to the end of each movement; - the data from the sensors are sent to the electronic elements, possibly to a computer, tablet or smartphone, where the data is processed, analyzed and presented to the coach or athlete as feedback; - After completing the movement, the athlete returns to the baseline by unwinding the rope.

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