Self-contained regenerative dynamic motion resistance module

Abstract

A system and method are provided that provide a self-contained regenerative primary power source located within a stator portion of an electromechanical motor that converts physical energy to electrical energy and applies the electrical energy to the power source to recharge the power source.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 17 / 485,691, entitled “DYNAMIC MOTION RESISTANCE MODULE,” filed on September 27, 2021, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 17 / 236,327, entitled “DYNAMIC MOTION RESISTANCE MODULE,” filed on April 21, 2021, which claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application No. 63 / 014,191, entitled “DYNAMIC MOTION RESISTANCE MODULE,” filed on April 23, 2020, and which are hereby incorporated by reference into this document. Technical Field

[0002]

[0014] Embodiments described herein generally relate to power supplies for use in electromechanical stator or rotor motors, such as in modular dynamic force modules for varying unique dynamic forces during different forms of physical activity. Background Art

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

[0004] Some exercise machines utilize resistance mechanisms, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044. However, U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044 is limited in the amount of resistance the resistance mechanism can provide to the user. Furthermore, the resistance mechanism is based on weights rather than user-generated force. This makes it more likely that users will overexert their muscles and are 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 is limited in the range of motion that can be used and may cause the user to over-isolate individual muscles, potentially leading to injury.

[0006] For example, in U.S. Patent No. 750,716, resistance bands can be attached to different devices to provide various forces within a varying range of motion, however, the resistance is limited based on the mass of the resistance band. Furthermore, the resistance generated using the band is static throughout the entire body movement.

[0007] U.S. Patent Publication No. 20080119763 teaches a system for acquiring, processing, and reporting personal exercise data about selected muscle groups by measuring the vector force exerted by at least one muscle or muscle group on a body exercise device. The system provides information to the user so that the user can make manual adjustments to the exercise device.

[0008] US Patent Publication No. 20200151595 discloses processing sensor data to improve training for a user. The present invention provides feedback and suggestions to the user to facilitate subsequent modification of the training program by adjusting the form and manual resistance.

[0009] US Patent No. 10,661,112 discloses digital strength training using information received regarding the position of an actuator coupled to a cable connected to a motor.

[0010] The prior art has failed to provide a modular dynamic modular motion resistance module that analyzes real-time data to provide automatic real-time adjustments to force. The present invention improves the efficiency of physical activities such as exercise, is more precise and results in fewer injuries and strains for the user. The prior art has also failed to provide a modular power system. The present invention provides a rechargeable, self-contained main power supply located within the stator portion of a motor or similar exercise module. The prior art discloses electromechanical stator and rotor motors that rely on an external power supply, replaceable battery packs and motor control electronics. The present invention improves upon the prior art by providing a unique modular packaging system and method. The power supply utilizes the work performed by the user, returning energy to the device's renewable power supply. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention provides systems and methods for improving the efficiency of physical activity while simultaneously regeneratively charging the same device using energy expended by the user. A power supply is encapsulated within the stator of an electromechanical motor. An embodiment is shown for use in a DMRM to vary force during various forms of physical activity and to return a portion of the mechanical work to charge the motor's internal regenerative power bank. This arrangement of the regenerative power supply within the stator of the electromechanical motor is applicable to other portable electric vehicle hub motors and regenerative mechanical or physical work applications.

[0012] The present invention provides a self-contained regenerative primary power supply located within a stator portion of an electromechanical motor that converts physical energy into electrical energy and applies the electrical energy to the power supply to recharge the power supply. The present invention also provides a method for recharging the self-contained power supply located within a stator of an electromechanical motor, the method comprising: encapsulating the self-contained power supply within an interior portion of the stator; a user generating a primary extension force or a primary contraction force; collecting and processing power consumption and directional force sensor data of the electromechanical motor based on the primary contraction force or the primary extension force during physical activity using sensor measurements and a tracking algorithm; and using a motor controller to divert current, wherein the current flows back to the self-contained power supply in a manner proportional to the adaptive force experienced by the user.

[0013] The Dynamic Motion Resistance Module ("DMRM") and method of generating varying forces are an improvement over the prior art because the DMRM uses a variable torque force (e.g., a DC motor, Eddie current, friction clutch, flywheel, or torsional sensor feedback) that is converted into a linear force and controlled by a microprocessor, receiving adjustments based on various sensors and the calculated optimized force. This allows a user to perform physical activities such as exercises based on his or her unique abilities, creating varying forces based on the amount of force the user is able to apply. If the user's ability to apply force fluctuates during the activity, the force can vary within a single repetition or set of exercises. The DMRM is particularly helpful for users recovering from injuries and being aware of not overexerting muscles.

[0014] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein describe a module that provides dynamic force control, which is electromechanically controlled in a closed-loop device (mechanical, electrical, software) that can change the relative force experienced by the user based on various input variables and adapt to the individual during physical activities such as exercise or therapeutic training. Input variables include repetition rate, recovery period, current physical activity profile, daily goals, historical guidance, and AI adjustment. The input variables can be received from an associated mobile application on the user's device, or from the force module. DMRM is unique with respect to other sports activity equipment such as static Olympic weight plates because DMRM is a modular system that uses variable torque force to generate dynamic force for the user in real time. Therefore, DMRM can be used as an alternative module to static weight plates.

[0015] The DMRM improves the user's physical activity by adapting and adjusting the force based on input from various one or more sensors and calculated adjustments to optimize each physical activity and force efficiency. The sensors may include Hall effect sensors (and / or accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers, proximity sensors, optical sensors) for position, strain gauges (e.g., force sensitive resistors, piezoelectric sensors, optical sensors, or torsion sensors) for force, contact closure or proximity detection devices for safety interlocks or motor control.

[0016] The DMRM can be attached to many Olympic or standard barbell and dumbbell components or other exercise equipment to add dynamic forces to an otherwise static mass.

[0017] The DMRM can be mounted in a unique manner. The DMRM can be configured and used for static force routines with programmable force and hold time, adapted for daily physical activities, or to add the same elements of closed-loop force regulation to other body-exhausting applications and therapies.

[0018] The present invention provides a modular and dynamic force device for adjusting standard and dynamic torque-linear force in real time during physical activity, the device comprising a force module, a user device, and a device tracking processing unit. The force module comprises an open hub attachment point, wherein the open hub connects the device to an external source, one or more sensors for measuring data for physical activity efficiency, an internal processor, a radio and force sensor module, a variable length cable, a force generating component, and a motor controller. The internal processor, radio, and force sensing module comprise: 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 status data to adjust dynamic force. The user device receives the one or more apparatus status data via the second electronic communication channel for real-time notification and / or adjustment to the user. The user interface may comprise a display for providing user feedback and an apparatus tracking processing unit ("ATPU"). The ATPU includes: a first electronic communication channel for receiving measured data from the ATMU and the motor controller; a microprocessor; a memory area; a database stored in the memory area; and a tracking processing module located in the memory 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 states. The tracking processing includes program instructions and algorithms 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 cause the microprocessor to determine one or more device state data using the one or more tracking parameters and the second set of evaluation rules.

[0019] The present invention also improves upon the prior art by providing a unique modular packaging system and method for optimizing the overall space requirements of a typical force generating device while converting physical activity into regeneration of the device's renewable power bank.

[0020] The present invention also provides a method of incorporating a rechargeable power source such as a battery renewable power pack or fuel cell. The rechargeable power source may be located within the stator portion of a force generating motor such as a DMRM or an electric bicycle / vehicle hub motor.

[0021] The present invention provides a self-contained regenerative power supply within a DMRM or other device that is a significant improvement to exercise equipment, including portable devices, over prior art disclosures. The present invention enables new exercise modes by maximizing dynamic feedback and adjustment of the forces experienced and providing user feedback, while human power directly charges the device's power supply (e.g., a battery or fuel cell). The self-contained regenerative power supply extends the device's operating time without the need for external recharging. The regenerative feedback generated can also provide psychological motivation during exercise activities because the work of the physical exercise performed by the user is transferred back from the same motor used to simulate resistance.

[0022] The present invention provides a self-contained regenerative primary power supply located within the stator portion of an electromechanical motor, wherein energy is applied to the power supply to recharge the power supply.

[0023] The present invention also provides a method for recharging a self-contained power supply within a stator in an electromechanical motor, the method comprising encapsulating the self-contained power supply within an internal portion of the stator; a user generating a primary extension force or a primary contraction force; collecting and processing data from a power consumption and directional force sensor of the electromechanical motor based on the primary contraction force or the primary extension force during physical activity; and using a motor controller to divert current, wherein the current flows back to the self-contained power supply in a manner proportional to the adaptive force experienced by the user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Various advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description and appended claims, and by referring to the following drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 An exemplary DMRM configured to operate in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown for use with strength equipment commonly found in professional fitness studios or home gyms;

[0026] Figure 2 shows an exemplary interior view of a DMRM;

[0027] Figure 3a and Figure 3b An exemplary use of DMRM is shown;

[0028] Figure 4a 、 Figure 4b and Figure 4c An exemplary use of the DMRM with an exercise bench is shown;

[0029] Figure 5 shows an alternative use of the DMRM, where the user pulls on a variable force cable on a rowing machine;

[0030] Figure 6 shows an alternative use of the DMRM, where the user pulls on a variable force cable;

[0031] Figure 7 shows an alternative use of the DMRM, where the user pulls on a variable force cable while swimming;

[0032] Figure 8 shows an alternative use of DMRM by two interacting users;

[0033] Figure 9 Alternative uses of DMRM for pets are shown;

[0034] Figure 10 An alternative use of DMRM on a treadmill is shown;

[0035] Figure 11 Shows the alternative use of DMRM as a security module;

[0036] Figure 12 shows an alternative use of the DMRM, where the user pulls on a variable force cable;

[0037] Figure 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of a user and a DMRM configured on a mounted standard barbell with the DMRM casework cover removed;

[0038] Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment showing an isometric view of the inner workings of a DMRM, wherein a self-contained regenerative power supply device is enclosed within the DMRM;

[0039] Figure 15 Another exemplary embodiment is shown highlighting an isometric view of the inner workings of a DMRM, detailing a self-contained regenerative power supply and a regenerative motor controller enclosed within the DMRM. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The unique modular functionality of the DMRM allows the DMRM to be attached or mounted to a variety of traditionally used force machines (e.g., barbells, racks, benches) and allows the DMRM to be used in other physical activities. The DMRM includes: full closed-loop / feedback loop motor control for adjustments and fine-tuning in real time based on the user's dynamic or profiled response to the force being performed. This allows the user to utilize multiple muscle groups simultaneously in an almost unlimited number of physical activity forces and ranges of motion. The varying force is based on the force applied by the user and limits the possibility of injury. In addition, the present invention has a smaller mass than an equivalent traditional deadweight plate, so that accidentally dropping the device on a toe or finger will likely cause the user to be injured to a minimal extent. The DMRM is suitable for users of various strength levels and can be easily transported. Modularity combined with a novel means of replicating varying forces and a lighter mass makes the DMRM different from any other force device.

[0041] DMRM can be used for various types of physical activities. This includes exercise, boundary restraints, safety modules, and two-person interactive activities.

[0042] Figure 1 An example of a modular, stand-alone dynamic motion resistance module 1 is shown. Although some of the exemplary embodiments described herein are configured as stand-alone modules, the apparatus and methods of the present disclosure are not limited to such configurations and can be used in other apparatus environments using similar applications and methods. One or more modules can be mounted or anchored to the apparatus being used in various configurations and mounting positions.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown in FIG, the device includes an open hub 13 sized to fit over different types of equipment, such as Olympic or standard barbell and dumbbell components. The housing 10 houses the dynamic force components, which include a motor such as a DC motor, a power supply, an intelligent controller / wireless communication device, sensors, an embedded processor, and a cable or spool 4. The module may also include a display. The cable or spool 4 of the DMRM 1 provides a connection point 5 for attaching a hand grip, a rod, or a fixed point for the user to use the attached module. Sensors may include torque sensors such as Hall effect sensors, strain gauges, safety interlocks, and external physiological sensors, such as heart rate, force, timing, exercise form, calorie consumption, exercise repetition rate, and exercise history. The sensors are located within the force module; however, the exact location may vary. The sensors may be located together with the internal processor and radio module, or they may be located separately within the force module. Sensor feedback may be audible, tactile, and / or tactile. The DMRM 1 is fitted to an internal rotating portion 13, providing a varying force in the linear direction 2 to the belt or cable 4 so that the user experiences varying forces based on sensor control and calculated input to optimise physical activity training. The DMRM 1 also houses a signage and branding space 16.

[0044] Figure 2An exemplary diagram of the internal and internal force functionality of a DMRM 1 is shown, illustrating the primary components used in transmitting dynamic forces, including a linear vector of force 2 created by an internal rotational force 3, along with a typical communication device 9 that sends force-changing commands to the module. The torque-to-linear force is generated by a motor, gear assembly, pulley, or eddy current force component 6 powered by a supply source 7, such as a battery, fuel cell, or linear electric power. Force and communication are handled by an internal processor, radio, force sensor, and position module 8, which functions both as an Equipment Tracking Measurement Unit ("ATMU") and as a self-contained, integrated DMRM (offline / manual mode), alternately receiving control commands from a commercially available external device 9, which functions as an Equipment Tracking Processing Unit ("ATPU"). The ATMU measures 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 status data to a user interface for adjusting dynamic forces. A user interface, whether a local device or an associated application, is used to adjust all force and body activity curves. The ATPU includes a microprocessor and a memory area. The memory area includes a database and a tracking processor module. The tracking processing module includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, use the measured data and a set of evaluation rules and the device and / or module states measured by the ATMU to determine one or more tracking parameters, thereby using one or more of the tracking parameters and another set of evaluation rules. The database stores groups of evaluation rules. At least one set of rules corresponds to one or more of the personal tracking parameters, such as the number of repetitions per minute, the total number of repetitions, the calories burned, and the goal achieved, while the other set of evaluation rules corresponds to the one or more states of the device and / or module.

[0045] The embedded processor of module 1 monitors the electronic motor control loop, sensor management and wireless communications, such as low-energy Bluetooth (BLE), Wi-Fi or cellular. The embedded processor provides local control, calculations and variables, such as main power, timer, motor control profile, on / off, effective force and safety interlock status. The embedded processor can also provide calculated data or raw data to the ATPU so that advanced calculations can be performed at any boundary of the architecture. The ATPU is a logic element that can be physically located within the DMRM or within the user interface. The ATPU sends device status such as battery charge status, safety status and system health. The optimized linear force is directed to the cable or belt 4. The cable or belt 4 includes an attachment point 5 to allow various accessories and attachment options to be attached to the cable or belt 4, for example, the attachment point 5 is a lanyard, eye hook or other universal or customized attachment point. When the module is offline, the module can be in a low-power sleep mode or shutdown state.

[0046] Figure 3a and Figure 3b The embodiment of the DMRM 1 in actual operation is shown, wherein the DMRM 1 applies force and has internal force functionality and is mounted on a typical exercise barbell or dumbbell bar 30. The vector of the force 2 generated can be adjusted by the internal industry standard / universal barbell or dumbbell bar 30 or other universal hub adapter used to connect or mount the module. The cables or straps 4 and attachment points 5 are in a linear direction so that the user is subjected to varying forces based on rate, form, pre-planned exercise routine, sensors and / or calculated inputs to optimize physical activity training. The DMRM 1 includes: multiple safety mechanisms such as cable safety stops (cut-off switches), anchor points ( Figure 3a Foot anchor 18 or Figure 3b and / or hardware / software control loops and feedback loops (sensors, electronics, software) for real-time closed-loop control and application of dynamic forces. The foot anchors 18 resist the applied forces for a dynamic free weight experience.

[0047] Figure 4a 、 Figure 4b and Figure 4c The DMRM 1 is shown in use with a weight bench 40. The DMRM 1 is mounted on a bar 30. The user can perform different exercises using different ranges of force 2 vectors. Figure 5The DMRM 1 is shown in use on a rowing machine 50. The user interface 9 can be part of the rowing machine, or it can be a separate user interface, such as a smartphone. Two DMRMs 1 are attached to the rowing machine 50, but the number of modules attached to the device can be one or more. While rowing on the rowing machine 50, the user pulls on the cable 4 and receives real-time feedback and the tactile sensation of actually rowing in the water.

[0048] Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 1 shows an exemplary diagram of other uses of the DMRM 1. In addition to mounting the DMRM to conventional exercise equipment, static weight plates 14 may be added, such as Figure 6 The DMRM 1 may be mounted in other ways, for example, the DMRM 1 may be mounted to one or more anchor points 70 located on a load-bearing structure and then attached to the swimmer's harness 15 to regulate or measure dynamic body activity ( Figure 7 ).like Figure 8 As shown in FIG, DMRM 1 can also be used for interactive exercise or therapeutic activities for two people. One user holds, for example, a barbell 80 with two modules installed, while the other user attaches a barbell (or other form of equipment) 85 to a belt or cable 4 via attachment points 5. Figure 9 Another example shown in FIG. 1 shows a DMRM 1 attached to an animal or pet, for example, by a strap or tether 12. The DMRM 1 provides the animal with freedom of movement unless the animal reaches a user-set boundary. Upon reaching the set boundary 92, the dynamically applied force begins to apply resistance, resulting in a complete stop at a controlled length and restrained state (e.g., a hold or lock mode).

[0049] Figure 10 、 Figure 11 and Figure 12 Further alternative uses of DMRM 1 are provided. Figure 10 The DMRM 1 is shown attached to the treadmill 100 at attachment point 102, and the cable or belt 4 is attached to the user's waist via a strap or other connection point 104, thereby keeping the runner perfectly centered on the treadmill 100. The DMRM 1 can also be used as a safety barrier module, such as Figure 11 As shown, the safety arrest module is attached to the user at a connection point 110 such as a harness, thereby providing freedom of movement to the user (human or animal). If or when a false force, such as a fall or stumble, is detected, the device remains or locks, thereby keeping the user safe. Figure 12The DMRM 1 is shown in use by a sprinter or skater, where during training, the DMRM 1 is attached to the user via a strap or other connection point 19. The device senses and controls the force applied to the user. The module can also be configured and used for static force routines with programmable force and hold time, adapted for daily physical activities, or adapted to add closed-loop force regulation to other physical exertion applications and therapies.

[0050] Figure 13Further shown is a DMRM 100 having a self-contained regenerative power supply 107 enclosed within the DMRM 100. The housing cover is removed 106, as shown on the user's left-hand side, revealing the motor controller and local user display 108 (ATPU or other interface electronics), as well as the self-contained regenerative power supply 107 enclosed within the stator of an electromechanical motor or similar force-generating device. For example, the device's cable or belt 104 is anchored at an anchor point 105. When a mode is selected and an exercise is begun, the user experiences generated forces 102, which are optimized during the routine based on the speed at which the user moves the device, or in the case of a pre-calculated routine, with dynamic adjustments calculated during the exercise and applied to the original plan. These adjustments are modified in real time based on speed and / or repetition rate, all while maintaining the selected form and exercise mode. As an example, in the case of a pre-calculated routine, if the user's movement is too fast during the first cycle of the routine, the adaptive force will be increased during or on the next cycle, slowing the speed to the optimal value. If the rate is too slow in subsequent cycles, the force will be adjusted lower. Furthermore, both DMRMs 100 shown transmit rate and cable length so that the right-hand and left-hand forces can be balanced to ensure proper form. When subjected to a primary extension or contraction force, the motor controller reverses the current flow and charges the self-contained regenerative power supply 107 in a manner proportional to the adaptive force 109 experienced by the user. The DMRM device 100 can be positioned for a variety of different use cases, so the charging direction for extension or contraction depends on how the DMRM 100 is oriented relative to the user, but will generally be at a higher force bias to maximize power supply charging. For example, if the next force set point is within the range of regenerative force that can be generated, the power supply will be charged. However, if the next force set point can be supplied above the regenerative force, the motor will compensate for the difference. The cumulative force is achieved partly by regeneration and partly by back-driving the motor. The amount of regenerative force achieved can vary. For example, 20% to 30% of the force can be achieved through regeneration, with the remainder coming from the motor drive. For example, for a setpoint of 100 lbs., 20 to 30 lbs. comes from regeneration, while the remaining 70 to 80 lbs. comes from the motor drive (consumed by the power supply). (This happens in micro / millisecond adjustments, so when you achieve 20% to 30% recuperation, the force experienced is fluid.) Figure 14An exemplary isometric view is shown, illustrating the inner workings of a DMRM 40 with a self-contained regenerative power supply 147, and showing the stator region 141 and a typical rotor cover 142 enabled by a sliding bearing interface 143. The rotor has torsional freedom of motion in the motor direction of rotation 144, and the rotor extends or retracts a cable or belt attached to a re-coiled channel 147. When this mode and closed-loop motor control commands are sent to the motor controller 145, a tangential force 146 is generated as the user experiences the resulting force 149. The force and position electronics 148 measure and determine the next set of parameters to be used during the next adjustment cycle.

[0051] Figure 15Another exemplary isometric view is shown, further highlighting the internal workings of the DMRM 150, which implements a self-contained regenerative power supply 157 and a regenerative motor controller 155. Although encapsulated as part of the DMRM in this embodiment, the same principles and utilities apply to other force-generating devices and electromechanical inner-stator and outer-rotor motor configurations. The present invention provides a self-contained, regenerative primary power source located within the stator portion of the electromechanical motor, where energy expended by physical activity, such as exercise or work, is directed to the power supply / power supply to recharge the power source. This is achieved by reversing the typical actions of the motor controller. In regenerative mode, energy expended by physical activity is equivalent to reversing the motor's motion, and the controller directs this energy to recharge the self-contained power source. This is achieved by the ATMU measuring force and rotor position and the ATPU tracking force and rotor position based on sensed and tracked raw position, thereby collecting and processing the electromechanical motor's power consumption and directional force sensor data based on the primary contraction or extension force. The ATPU determines the direction of current flow based on a programmed routine and the next set point. The command / proportional value is then sent to the motor controller to apply the regeneration percentage (0-100%). This value is adjusted in real time based on the force measured by the ATMU. The ATMU (or functionally equivalent) is located on the rotor portion of the motor and can transmit the measured force to the ATPU for further processing, either wirelessly or via a sliding connector. The ATPU is the logical component and can be located anywhere, but will typically be located within the stator. This location may be driven by packaging constraints and the interest in keeping the user display or interface on a non-moving part of the device. If the configuration does not require local settings or displays, a wirelessly connected remote device, such as a mobile phone, can accommodate the ATPU (or functionally equivalent) located outside the device with a self-contained regenerative power supply. In the DMRM configuration, the motor controller 155 is also part of the logical ATMU function and transmits this information to the ATPU for further processing. This sensor, position, and measurement information is used to track and determine the direction of current flow. In alternative embodiments of the present method, the ATMU module and the ATPU module can be functionally equivalent; measuring, tracking, and processing force and motor state feedback in a similar manner. When the extension or contraction force is determined, the power supply charges or supplies energy. When the power supply is charged, the motor controller reverses the flow and returns the current to the self-contained power supply in a manner proportional to the adaptive force experienced by the user. In this embodiment, the electromechanical motor is composed of a magnetic rotor ring 159 and a coil stator 152. A self-contained regenerative power supply 157 is enclosed within the stator area 151.In this particular configuration, the contraction force operating element 161 drives the motor in reverse, or regenerative mode, and returns current to the self-contained regenerative power supply 157, thereby charging the power source (i.e., battery or fuel cell) as part of the physical activity. During the extension force 162, the motor draws current from the power source; this is typically a low-force motion of the electromechanical motor and will have minimal current consumption by the self-contained regenerative power supply 157. The force 160 experienced is from the user's perspective and is configured and programmed for optimal power consumption. Current consumption and regenerative charging are coupled with force and position electronics 158, forming a closed-loop motor control and regenerative capability. Depending on the mounting position, the extension or contraction force acts on a coiled cable or belt attached to the rotating portion of the device. The primary force is tangentially converted, and regenerative charging of the power source, such as a battery or fuel cell, occurs through the same motor return. Regenerative force occurs on the extended portion of the coiled cable or belt relative to the device. Relative to use, the regenerative force (or direction of current flow) occurs relative to the installation of the device and the position of the user's hands. For example, in the presence of two DMRM devices, each with a self-contained regenerative power supply, on a barbell with cable ends anchored to the ground, regenerative force occurs as the cables extend, and the user will experience contraction forces (e.g., during bicep curls). In another example, a DMRM device with a self-contained regenerative power supply can be mounted overhead, and the user's hands pull downward on a barbell tethered to the cables from the DMRM. In this example, the user is subjected to extension forces, and regenerative forces are also generated during extension of the cables.

[0052] Although some of the exemplary embodiments described herein are tailored to DMRM, the self-contained regenerative power supply system and method of the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may be used in other equipment environments using similar applications and methods.

[0053] In the foregoing description, the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and variations may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A self-contained regenerative primary power supply located within the stator portion of an electromechanical motor that converts physical energy into electrical energy and applies the electrical energy to the power supply to recharge the power supply.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein The power source is a fuel cell or a rechargeable battery.

3. A method for recharging a self-contained power supply within a stator of an electromechanical motor, the method comprising: enclosing the self-contained power supply within an interior portion of the stator; The user generates a primary extension force or a primary contraction force; collecting and processing data from the electromechanical motor's power consumption and directional force sensors based on the primary contraction force or the primary extension force during physical activity using sensor measurements and a tracking algorithm; as well as A motor controller is used to reverse the current flow, wherein the current flows back to the self-contained power source in a manner proportional to the adaptive force experienced by the user.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: A battery charging profile for the self-contained power source is calculated and provided as part of closed-loop motor control.

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