Dynamic Exercise Resistance Module

Abstract

To provide a method for adjusting standard and dynamic torque-to-linear forces in real time during physical activity.SOLUTION: A method includes: fitting to a fixed base material a DMRM 1 which includes an open hub attachment, a sensor, an internal processor, a tracking measurement unit, a variable length cable, a force generating component and motor controls and collects in real time activity data showing torque-to-linear forces generated by a user; transmitting the activity data to a force processing unit; applying a first set of evaluation rules by using the activity data; applying a second set of evaluation rules by using a tracking parameter; transmitting an apparatus condition parameter to a user device and notifying the user device of the apparatus condition parameter in real time; and having the DMRM 1 adjust in real time the torque-to-linear forces experienced by the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3a

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments described herein generally relate to a modular dynamic force module that is used to vary the inherent dynamic forces during different forms of physical activity. [Background technology]

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 014,191, filed April 23, 2020, entitled “DYNAMIC RESISTANCE EXERCISE MODULE,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The dynamic and fluctuating forces used during physical activity maximize efficiency and reduce injury and strain compared to static weights or dedicated electromechanical exercise systems.

[0004] Some exercise machines utilize a resistance mechanism, such as U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044. However, U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044 is limited in the amount of resistance it can provide to the user. Furthermore, the resistance mechanism is based on counterweights rather than on the force created by the user. This causes the user to work their muscles harder and makes the user more susceptible to injury.

[0005] U.S. Patent Publication No. 20030027696 teaches a cable machine having a weight stack attached to a cable. A pulley system is utilized which can limit the available range of motion and can cause the user to overly isolate a single muscle, potentially resulting in injury.

[0006] Resistance bands such as those in U.S. Design Patent No. 750,716 can be attached to different equipment to provide a variety of forces at varying ranges of motion, but the resistance is limited based on the quality of the band. Additionally, the resistance created using the bands is static throughout the entire physical activity.

[0007] U.S. Patent Publication No. 20080119763 teaches a system for acquiring, processing, and reporting personal exercise data for selected muscle groups by measuring vector forces from at least one muscle or muscle group acting on a physical exercise device, which provides information to a user so that the user can manually adjust the exercise device.

[0008] US Patent Publication No. 20200151595 discloses processing sensor data to improve a user's workout. The invention provides the user with feedback and recommendations for making form and manual resistance adjustments for subsequent modifications of the training regimen.

[0009] US Pat. No. 10,661,112 discloses digital strength training that uses information received related to the position of an actuator coupled to a cable coupled to a motor.

[0010] The prior art does not provide a modular dynamic exercise resistance module that analyzes real-time data to provide automatic real-time adjustments to forces. The present invention improves the efficiency of physical activities such as exercise, is more accurate, and reduces injury and strain to the user.

[0011] The present invention provides systems and methods for improving the efficiency of physical activity.

[0012] The Dynamic Exercise Resistance Module (DMRM) and method for generating a variable force is an improvement over the prior art because it uses a variable torque force (e.g., DC motor, eddy current, friction clutch or torsion sensor) that is converted to a linear force and controlled by a microprocessor, receiving adjustments based on various sensors and calculated optimized forces. This allows a user to perform a physical activity, such as exercise, based on his or her inherent ability to generate a variable force based on the amount of force the user is able to apply. If the user's capacity to apply force varies within an activity, the force may vary within a single repetition or set of exercise. The DMRM is particularly useful for users who have recovered from injury and who are conscious of not overworking their muscles.

[0013] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein describe a module that provides dynamic force control, electromechanically controlled in a closed-loop device (mechanical, electrical, software) that can vary the relative force experienced by a user to adapt to an individual during a physical activity, such as a workout or therapy session, based on various input variables. The input variables include repetition rate, recovery period, current physical activity profile, daily goals, historical guidance, and AI adjustments. The input variables can be received from an associated mobile application on the user's device or from the force module. Unlike other physical activity equipment, such as static Olympic weight plates, the DMRM is a modular system that uses variable torque forces to generate dynamic forces for the user in real time. Thus, the DMRM can be used as a replacement module to static weight plates.

[0014] The DMRM improves the user's physical activity through force adaptation and adjustment based on inputs and calculated adjustments from a variety of one or more sensors, optimizing each physical activity and force efficiency. Sensors may include Hall effect for position, strain gauges for force (e.g., force-sensing resistors, piezoelectric, optical, or torsional sensors), contact closure or proximity detection for safety interlocks or motor control.

[0015] The DMRM can be attached to many Olympic or standard barbell and dumbbell components, or other exercise equipment, to apply dynamic forces to other static masses.

[0016] The DMRM can be fitted in a unique way that can be profiled and used for static force routines with programmable forces and hold times tailored to everyday physical activities or to add the same element of closed-loop force regulation to other physical exercise applications and therapies.

[0017] A modular dynamic force device for adjusting standard and dynamic torque vs. linear force during physical activity in real time, the device includes a force module, a user device, and a device tracking processing unit. The force module includes an open hub attachment point that attaches the device to an external source, one or more sensors that measure data for physical activity efficiency, an internal processor, a wireless radio and force sensor module, a variable length cable, a force generating component, and a motor control. The internal processor, wireless radio and force sensor module include an apparatus tracking measurement unit (ATMU) adapted to measure data, a first electronic communication channel for transmitting the measured data to an apparatus tracking processing unit (ATPU), and a second electronic communication channel for transmitting one or more apparatus condition data for adjusting the dynamic force. The user device receives the one or more apparatus condition data via the second electronic communication channel for real time notification and / or adjustment to the user. The user interface includes a display that provides feedback, and the apparatus tracking processing unit (ATPU). The ATPU includes a first electronic communication channel for receiving measured data from the ATMU, a microprocessor, a memory storage area, a database stored in the memory storage area, and a tracking processing module located in the memory storage area. The database stores a first set of evaluation rules and a second set of evaluation rules, the first set of evaluation rules corresponding to one or more tracking parameters, and the second set of evaluation rules corresponding to one or more device conditions. The tracking process includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, cause the microprocessor to determine one or more tracking parameters using the measured data and the first set of evaluation rules, and to determine condition data for one or more devices using the one or more tracking parameters and the second set of evaluation rules. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] Various advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following specification and appended claims, and upon reference to the following drawings.

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary DMRM configured to operate in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for use with force equipment commonly found in a professional workout studio or home gym. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary internal view of the DMRM. [Figure 3a] FIG. 3a illustrates an exemplary use with DMRM. [Figure 3b] FIG. 3b shows an exemplary use with DMRM. [Figure 4a] FIG. 4a shows an exemplary use of the DMRM with an exercise bench. [Figure 4b] FIG. 4b shows an exemplary use of the DMRM with an exercise bench. [Figure 4c] FIG. 4c shows an exemplary use of the DMRM with an exercise bench. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative use of the DMRM in the situation of a user pulling a variable force cable on a rowing machine. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an alternative use of the DMRM in a situation where a user is pulling on a variable force cable. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative use of the DMRM in the situation of a user pulling on a variable force cable while swimming. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an alternative use of the DMRM with two interacting users. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative use of the DMRM with pets. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows an alternative use of DMRM in a treadmill. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 shows an alternative use of the DMRM as a security module. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows an alternative use of the DMRM in a situation where a user pulls on a variable force cable.

[0020] [Detailed Description] The inherent modularity of the DMRM allows it to be attached to a variety of traditionally used force equipment (e.g., barbells, racks, benches, etc.) and used for other physical activities. The DMRM includes full closed / feedback loop motor control with adjustments and refinements based on the user's dynamic or profiled response to the force being applied, in real time. This allows the user to engage multiple muscle groups at once, in a nearly unlimited number of physical activity forces and ranges of motion. The fluctuating force is based on the user's force applied, limiting the chance of injury. Additionally, the present invention has less mass than a traditional static weight plate equivalent, and therefore is less likely to injure the user if the device is accidentally dropped on a toe or finger. The modularity, combined with a novel means of replicating the fluctuating force, and lighter mass make the DMRM different from any other force equipment.

[0021] DMRM can be used for various types of physical activities, including exercise, boundary constraints, safety modules, and two-person interactive activities.

[0022] 1 shows an example of a modular, stand-alone dynamic exercise resistance module 1. Although some of the exemplary embodiments described herein are tailored to stand-alone modules, the devices and methods of the disclosure are not limited to this configuration and can be used in other device environments using similar applications and methods. One or more modules can be attached or fixed to the equipment being used.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the device includes an open hub 13 sized to fit various types of equipment such as Olympic or standard barbells and dumbbell components. The shell 10 houses the dynamic force components including motors such as DC motors, power supplies, smart controllers / wireless communications, sensors, embedded processors, and cable or strap spools 4. The module may also include a display. The cable or strap spools 4 of the DMRM1 provide connection points 5 for attaching hand grips, bars, or fixed points for a user to use the attached module. Sensors may include torsional sensors such as Hall effect, strain gauges, safety interlocks, as well as external physiological sensors such as heart rate, force, timing, workout form, calorie burn, workout repetition rate, and workout history. The sensors are located within the force module, although the exact location may vary. The sensors may be located with the internal processor and wireless module or separately within the force module. Sensor feedback may be audible, tactile, and / or haptic. Thus, the DMRM1 is attached to an internal rotating portion 13 that provides a varying force in a linear direction 2 to a strap or cable 4 so that the user experiences a varying force based on sensor controlled and calculated inputs to optimize the physical activity session. The DMRM1 also accommodates placard and branding space 16.

[0024] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary diagram of the inside of the DMRM 1 and the internal force function, illustrating the main components applied in providing dynamic forces including the resulting linear force vector 2 generated by the internal rotational 3 force, and a general communication device 9 that sends commands for varying forces to the module. Torque vs. linear forces are generated by motors, gearing, pulleys or vortex force components 6, powered by a power source 7, e.g., battery or line power. Forces and communications are handled by an internal processor, wireless radio and force sensor module 8, which functions as both an Apparatus Tracking Measurement Unit (ATMU) and a self-contained integrated DMRM (offline / manual mode) that in turn receives control commands from a commercially available external device 9, which functions as an Apparatus Tracking Processing Unit (ATPU). The ATMU measures the device / module data and transmits the measured data to the ATPU using an electronic communication channel. A second electronic communication channel is used by the ATMU to transmit one or more of the device's condition data to the user interface to adjust the dynamic forces. A user interface, either local on the device or in an associated application, is used to adjust all forces and physical activity profiles. The ATPU includes a microprocessor and a memory storage area. The memory storage area includes a database and a tracking processing module. The tracking processing module includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, use the measured data and a set of evaluation rules to determine one or more tracking parameters, and the one or more tracking parameters and another set of evaluation rules to determine a condition of the device and / or module measured by the ATMU. The database stores the set of evaluation rules. At least one set of rules corresponding to one or more of the personal tracking parameters, such as repetitions per minute, total repetitions, calories burned, and goals achieved, and another set of evaluation rules corresponding to one or more conditions of the device and / or module.

[0025] The embedded processor of the module 1 monitors the electronic motor control loops, sensor management, and wireless communications such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, or Cell. The embedded processor provides local control and calculations and variables such as main power, timers, motor control profiles, start / stop, effective force, and safety interlock state. It can also provide calculated or raw data to the ATPU so that higher level calculations can be performed at any boundary of the architecture. The ATPU is a logical element that can be physically located within the DMRM or within the user interface. The ATPU transmits device conditions such as battery charge state, safety state, and system health. The optimized linear force is directed to the cable or strap 4. The cable or strap 4 includes attachment points 5, such as cleats, eye hooks, or other common or custom attachment points that allow for a variety of accessories and mounting options to the cable or strap 4. When the module is "offline", it can be either in a low power sleep mode or powered off.

[0026] Figures 3a and 3b show an embodiment of an actual DMRM1 with application of force and internal force functions. The resulting force vector 2 can be accommodated by an internal industry standard / common barbell or dumbbell rod 30, or other common hub adaptation for the module to connect / mount. As a result, the straps or cables 4 and attachment points 5 are in a linear direction so that the user experiences a fluctuating force based on sensors and inputs calculated to optimize the physical activity session. The DMRM1 includes multiple safety mechanisms such as cable safety stops (cut-off switches), anchor points (foot anchors 18 in Figure 3a or floor anchors 17 in Figure 3b), and / or hardware / software control loops and feedback loops (sensors, electronics, software) for real-time closed loop control and dynamic force application. The foot anchors 18 counter the applied force for a dynamic free weight experience.

[0027] 4a, 4b and 4c show the DMRM1 used with a weight bench 40. The DMRM1 is attached to a bar 30. The user is able to perform variations of the exercise with different ranges of force vectors 2. FIG. 5 shows the use of the DMRM1 on a rowing machine 50. The user interface 9 can be part of the rowing machine or can be a separate user interface such as a smartphone. Two DMRM1 are attached to the rowing machine 50, but the number of modules attached to the equipment can be one or multiple. The user pulls on the cable 4 while rowing on the rowing machine 50 and receives real-time feedback and the tactile sensation of actually rowing in the water.

[0028] 6, 7, 8 and 9 show exemplary diagrams of additional uses with the DMRM1. In addition to attaching the DMRM to conventional exercise equipment, static weight plates 14 can be added, as seen in FIG. 6. The DMRM1 can be attached in other ways, for example, the DMRM1 can be attached to one or more anchor points 70 on a load-bearing structure and then attached to a swimmer's harness 15 to calibrate or measure dynamic physical activity forces while swimming (FIG. 7). As seen in FIG. 8, the DMRM1 can also be used for two-person interactive exercise or therapy activities. One user holds, for example, a barbell 80 to which the two modules are attached, while the other user attaches a barbell (or other form of equipment) 85 to straps or cables 4 via attachment points 5. Another example shown in FIG. 9 is attaching the DMRM1 to an animal or pet, for example, by a harness or wreath 12. The DMRM1 provides freedom of movement for the animal as long as the animal does not reach a user-set boundary. Once the set boundary 92 is reached, the dynamically applied force begins to apply resistance and comes to a complete stop at a controlled length and containment (e.g., hold or lock mode).

[0029] 10, 11, and 12 provide additional alternative uses of the DMRM1. FIG. 10 shows the DMRM1 attached to a treadmill 100 at attachment point 102 and a cable or strap 4 attached to the user's waist by a harness or other connection point 104 to keep the runner perfectly centered on the treadmill 100. The DMRM1 can also be used as a safety stop module such as FIG. 11, attached to the user at a harness or other connection point 110, providing the user (human or animal) with freedom of movement. If or when a spurious force such as a fall or movement is detected, the device will hold or lock to immobilize the user. FIG. 12 shows use by a sprinter or skater where the DMRM1 is attached to the user by a harness or other connection point 19 during training. The device senses and controls the force applied to the user. The module can be further profiled and used for static force routines with programmable force and hold time, adapted to daily physical activity, or to add the same element of closed-loop force regulation to other physical exercise applications and therapies.

[0030] In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will be apparent, however, that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. The specification and drawings are, therefore, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

1. 1. A method for adjusting standard and dynamic torque vs. linear force during real-time physical activity, comprising: The method comprises: attaching to a substantially fixed substrate a modular dynamic force module operatively connected to equipment for use by a user during physical activity, said modular dynamic force module including an open hub attachment for securing said dynamic force module to said substrate, one or more sensors, an internal processor, a tracking measurement unit, an equipment tracking processing unit, a variable length cable, connection points for attaching said variable length cable, and a motor control; The device tracking processing unit: collecting, in real time, activity data generated by the tracking measurement unit, the activity data being indicative of torque versus linear force generated by a user during physical activity; transmitting said activity data to a force processing unit for analysis by applying a predetermined set of evaluation rules; applying a first set of evaluation rules to determine at least one tracking parameter using the activity data; applying a second set of evaluation rules to determine at least one device condition parameter using at least one of the tracking parameters; transmitting the at least one device condition parameter to a user device, causing the user device to notify the at least one device condition parameter in real time; and adjusting the torque vs. linear force experienced by the user in real time on the variable length cable of the modular dynamic force module; A method comprising:

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising storing the first and second sets of evaluation rules in a database.

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: the torque vs. linear force adjustment being powered by an internal and self-contained power source.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising providing a feedback signal to send drive and / or resistance commands that refine the physical activity.

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: if a false force is detected, the modular dynamic force module locks.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user is at least one person who uses physical strength training.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the adjusted torque vs. linear force is applied in a single iteration.

8. The method of claim 6 , wherein the adjusted torque vs. linear force is applied to a set of movements when a user applied force varies within a physical activity.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user is an animal.

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