Method and apparatus for controlled rehabilitation and training of muscular system

Abstract

A system and method for controlling an exercise in an apparatus for training and measuring muscle strength. The system includes an apparatus with moving means actuated by force applied by a user, a magnetorheological brake unit resisting the movement of the moving means moved by user force applied, a control unit actively controlling the resistance of the magnetorheological brake unit during the exercise on the basis of a sensor signal from one or more sensors, one or more sensors measuring the behavior of the moving means, and a processing unit connected to the control unit for selecting parameters of an exercise.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of PCT / FI2014 / 050174 filed Mar. 10, 2014, which claims priority from Finnish Patent Application No. 20135230 filed Mar. 11, 2013, the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The invention is concerned with a system and an apparatus for controlled exercise, and a method for controlling exercise in an apparatus for controlled exercise.BACKGROUND[0003]Physical activity and a good physical condition play a major role both among employees and the growing group of elderly people in prevention and treatment of chronic diseases as well as in maintaining adequate functional capacity for work and daily living.[0004]Muscle strength and endurance is an important part of physical condition. When properly performed, strength training can provide significant functional benefits and improvement in overall health and well-being even for elderly people. Especially...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is an exercise machine that allows users to do muscle work without needing an external resistance system. This makes it safer and easier to use, and allows for a wider variety of exercise options.

Problems solved by technology

In most conditions, anaerobic exercise occurs simultaneously with aerobic exercises because the less efficient anaerobic metabolism must supplement the aerobic system due to energy demands that exceed the aerobic system's capacity.

There are some health hazards involved in muscle strength training.

Thus, there is a risk to tissue overloading and injury.

On the other hand applying low resistance may lead to inadequate strength improvement.

Isometric muscle contractions cause rapid increase of blood pressure that may be dangerous for people with cardiovascular diseases.

The machines are costly, large at size and therefore stationary.

The use of them is time consuming and requires a lot of training and skill.

In these devices safety requirements are complicated to apply in practice because these devices produce movement by themselves by active external resistance / power supply.

Technical solutions in these devices are more expensive, complex, and they require more space to use.

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