Load control unit

Abstract

A load control unit (1) is provided with: a reel (11) that rotates about a rotation shaft member (11a); a cable (12) that is connected to a lift shaft (105-1) for moving a weight stack (104) up and down in the vertical direction; a rotation detection part (13) that detects the rotation amount and the rotation direction of the rotation shaft member; a magnetorheological fluid device (14) that applies a braking force to the rotation shaft member; and a control device (15) that controls the braking force to be applied by the magnetorheological fluid device to the rotation shaft member in rotation.

Description

Load Control Unit

[0001] The present invention relates to a load control unit.

[0002] In the training device described in Patent Document 1, vibrations occur only when the trainee pedals the pedal-equipped operating unit, and the vibrations stop when the trainee stops pedaling, so no extra load is placed on the trainee.

[0003] Japanese Patent No. 7078377

[0004] An object of one aspect of the present invention is to provide a novel configuration that takes into consideration the safety of a user of a training device.

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, a load control unit according to one aspect of the present invention includes a rotating shaft member, a reel that rotates around the rotating shaft member, a cable connected to a lift shaft for raising and lowering a weight in the vertical direction in accordance with the stroke of a user using the training equipment, and which is pulled out from or wound onto the reel in accordance with the raising and lowering of the lift shaft in the vertical direction, a rotation detection unit that detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member, a magnetorheological fluid device that has a container for holding a magnetorheological fluid and applies a braking force to an insertion portion of the rotating shaft member that is inserted into the container through an opening provided in the container, and a control device that controls the braking force applied by the magnetorheological fluid device to the insertion portion of the rotating rotating shaft member based on the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member detected by the rotation detection unit.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a novel configuration can be provided that takes into consideration the safety of the user of the training device.

[0007] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a training tool in which a load control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed; Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the load control unit as seen from the left side in the left-right direction; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a magnetorheological fluid device as seen from the left side in the left-right direction; Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of a weight stack and a laser range finder as seen from the front side in the front-to-rear direction; Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a load control unit according to a modified example of the above embodiment;

[0008] [Embodiment] (Overall Configuration) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of a training device 100 in which a load control unit 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed. The training device 100 employs a weight stack system. For simplicity of illustration, FIG. 1 does not show a seat on which a user of the training device 100 sits, or handles that the user holds with both hands to perform movements appropriate for the training, specifically, movements such as pushing apart or lifting. Also not shown are pedals and footplates used by the user when training their feet. These pedals and footplates are used by the user to push, pull, or step on their feet while seated. The handles, pedals, and footplates are connected to the weight stack via cables.

[0009] The training device 100 is a training device for exercise or rehabilitation aimed at strengthening muscles.

[0010] The training device 100 has a structure in which multiple weight plates are stacked, and the user can select the desired weight by changing the pins. The weight stack system allows the user to quickly and easily adjust the training load. The weight plates are used as load for the training device 100 via cables and pulleys, allowing for a variety of training methods depending on the type of training. This allows the user to perform effective muscle training.

[0011] The training device 100 only allows weight setting for each weight plate, and the user must combine multiple plates to select a specific weight.

[0012] The resistance control unit 1 detects the movement of the weight stack in real time and can add additional resistance to the weight selected by the user. The resistance control unit 1 allows the user to finely adjust the resistance.

[0013] The training device 100 will be described in detail below with reference to Fig. 1. In Fig. 1 and Figs. 2 to 5 described later, this embodiment will be described with reference to the up-down direction, which is the vertical direction, as well as the left-right direction and front-rear direction, which are orthogonal to the up-down direction, shown in each drawing.

[0014] 1, 2, and 5 show specific examples of the present embodiment, but these shapes do not limit the present embodiment. These shapes are merely examples, and other shapes are also included within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1, the training device 100 has a frame (hereinafter referred to as "frame 101") consisting of a right frame 101-1, an upper frame 101-2, a left frame 101-3, and a lower frame 101-4, a cable 102, a pulley group (hereinafter referred to as "pulley group 103") consisting of pulleys 103-1, 103-2, 103-3, and 103-4, a weight stack 104, and a shaft group consisting of a lift shaft 105-1, a left guide shaft 105-2, and a right guide shaft 105-3.

[0016] The frame 101 is a skeleton that supports the weight stack 104. The right frame 101-1 and the left frame 101-3 are arranged in the vertical direction and are connected by the upper frame 101-2 and the lower frame 101-4.

[0017] The cable 102 is used by the user to apply a load, and one end 102a is connected to a handle that the user holds with his or her hand, while the other end 102b is fixed to the upper frame 101-2. The pulley group 103 is arranged to ensure smooth movement of the cable 102, and each pulley has a rotatable structure.

[0018] The pulley 103-4 is hung on the cable 102 and connected to the tip of the lift shaft 105-1. When one end 102a of the cable 102 is pulled, the pulley 103-4 rises because the other end 102b of the cable 102 is fixed to the upper frame 101-2, and as the pulley 103-4 rises, the lift shaft 105-1 also rises.

[0019] The pulley 103-4 is not essential to the training device 100, but using the pulley 103-4 provides the following effect. That is, the pulley 103-4 functions as a movable pulley, and increases the distance that the user pulls the end 102a of the cable 102. Therefore, the distance that the user pulls the cable is doubled compared to when the pulley 103-4 is not used. Using the pulley 103-4 increases the distance that the user pulls the cable, allowing for more effective training.

[0020] When the pulley 103-4 is not used, the tip of the lift shaft 105-1 is connected to the other end 102b of the cable 102 fixed to the upper frame 101-2 in FIG.

[0021] The weight stack 104 has a structure in which multiple weight plates are stacked, and the user can adjust the resistance by replacing the pin P. The lift shaft 105-1 is located in the center of the weight stack 104 and generates training resistance by rising and falling. The left guide shaft 105-2 and the right guide shaft 105-3 complement the lift shaft 105-1 and maintain the overall balance and stability of the weight stack 104.

[0022] The resistance control unit 1 is located directly below the weight stack 104. This location allows the resistance control unit 1 to sense the movement of the weight stack 104 in real time and provide accurate resistance adjustments.

[0023] The load control unit 1 can be retrofitted to training equipment already installed in a training facility, allowing for flexible compatibility with existing equipment. This makes it easy to upgrade training equipment, and users can use the load control unit 1 to perform more effective training.

[0024] Furthermore, the load control unit 1 may be placed on training equipment before it is installed in a training facility, and is also applicable to newly introduced training equipment.

[0025] (Configuration of Load Control Unit) FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the load control unit 1 as seen from the left side in the left-right direction, showing a cross section along line AA in FIG.

[0026] As shown in Figure 2, the load control unit 1 includes a reel 11 having a rotating shaft member 11a, a cable 12 connected to the lift shaft 105-1, a rotation detection unit 13 that detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a, a magnetorheological fluid device 14 having a magnetorheological fluid 14a and a container 14b that stores the magnetorheological fluid 14a, and a control device 15.

[0027] The reel 11 is rotatable around a rotary shaft member 11a as a rotary shaft. A cable 12 is wound around the reel 11, and the cable 12 can be pulled out from the reel 11 as needed.

[0028] Specifically, since the cable 12 is connected to the lift shaft 105-1, when the lift shaft 105-1 rises, the cable 12 is pulled out from the reel 11. Conversely, when the lift shaft 105-1 descends, the cable 12 is wound onto the reel 11. This operation allows the cable 12 to be appropriately managed according to the position of the lift shaft 105-1 in the vertical direction.

[0029] In addition, in order to prevent the cable 12 from sagging when the reel 11 winds up the cable 12 and when the cable 12 is pulled out from the reel 11, the following measures are adopted in this embodiment.

[0030] First, the cross-sectional shape of the reel 11 is approximately trapezoidal, which allows for even distribution of tension when winding the cable 12. The trapezoidal cross-section is designed to allow the cable 12 to be wound evenly across the entire winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11, preventing sagging and overlapping. In a cross-sectional view taken from the left to right, the winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11 is inclined along the extension direction of the rotary shaft member 11a. This inclination allows the cable 12 to be wound evenly around the winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11.

[0031] The reel 11 is also provided with a power spring (not shown) for maintaining an appropriate tension. The power spring is disposed on the rotating shaft member 11a of the reel 11, and maintains an appropriate tension when the cable 12 is wound up or unwound, preventing the cable 12 from sagging. The power spring applies an appropriate tension to the cable 12 in response to the rotation of the reel 11.

[0032] Furthermore, the reel 11 is provided with an assist mechanism 16 that supports smooth winding and unwinding. The assist mechanism 16 is designed to guide the cable 12 in a fixed direction, preventing the cable 12 from getting tangled when winding or unwinding. The arrangement of the assist mechanism 16 also ensures that the cable 12 is evenly wound around the winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11, preventing sagging or unevenness.

[0033] By the above measures, the cable 12 is not sagged and smooth and efficient operation is guaranteed when the reel 11 winds up the cable 12 and when the cable 12 is unwound from the reel 11. Furthermore, the trapezoidal cross section of the reel 11 and the arrangement of the support mechanism 16 allow the cable 12 to be evenly wound around the entire winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11 and maintained in an optimal state.

[0034] The above measures also ensure smooth and efficient operation without sagging when the reel 11 winds or unwinds the cable 12. The trapezoidal cross section of the reel 11 and the arrangement of the support mechanism 16 also ensure that the cable 12 is evenly wound around the entire winding surface 11b-1 of the reel 11 and maintained in an optimal state.

[0035] The rotation detector 13 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a in order to accurately monitor the operation of the reel 11. The rotation detector 13 detects the rotation operation of the rotating shaft member 11a in real time and transmits the information to the control device 15.

[0036] For example, either a rotary encoder or a magnetic sensor can be used as the rotation detection unit 13. The specific configuration is as follows.

[0037] The rotary encoder, as an example, generates a pulse signal in response to the rotation of the rotary shaft member 11 a. This pulse signal detects the rotation angle and speed of the rotary shaft member 11 a in real time and transmits it to the control device 15.

[0038] As the user continues training, an error may occur in the origin position of the rotating shaft member 11a detected by the rotary encoder. Therefore, when the rotary encoder detects that the reel 11 has stopped for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds) or longer, the control device 15 sets the amount of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a received from the rotary encoder in that state as a new origin position. As a result, the origin position information of the control device 15 is reset.

[0039] Another example is a magnetic sensor that detects the movement of a magnet attached to the rotating shaft member 11a and detects the amount and direction of rotation of the magnet. This generates a control signal corresponding to the rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a and transmits it to the control device 15.

[0040] The rotary encoder and magnetic sensor described above are merely examples, and any device having similar functions can also be used for the rotation detection unit 13. For example, other rotation detection technologies such as an optical sensor can also be applied to the rotation detection unit 13.

[0041] The rotation detector 13 accurately detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotary shaft member 11a and provides data necessary for controlling the winding and unwinding of the cable 12. The control device 15 controls the rotation of the reel 11 based on this data.

[0042] The magnetorheological fluid device 14 includes a magnetorheological fluid 14a and a container 14b for storing the magnetorheological fluid 14a. The magnetorheological fluid 14a has a characteristic that its viscosity changes depending on the strength of a magnetic field.

[0043] The container 14b has an opening 14h on a side surface facing the reel 11 in the front-rear direction. A part 11b of the rotary shaft member 11a is inserted into the container 14b through the opening 14h.

[0044] The magnetorheological fluid device 14 applies a braking force to a part 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a inserted in a container 14b by changing the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid 14a.

[0045] Specifically, the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid 14a changes, and a braking force is applied to prevent the rotation of the portion 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a. By preventing the rotation of the portion 11b, the entire rotating shaft member 11a, i.e., the reel 11, is prevented from rotating.

[0046] The control device 15 adjusts the strength of the magnetic field, thereby changing the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid 14a, and the braking force on the part 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a can be adjusted in real time.

[0047] The structure and function of the magnetorheological fluid device 14 will now be described in more detail with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the magnetorheological fluid device 14 as seen from the left side in the left-right direction. As shown in Fig. 3, the magnetorheological fluid device 14 includes the magnetorheological fluid 14a, the container 14b, the rotor 14c, the coil 14d, and the bearing 14e.

[0048] The container 14b consists of a container body 14b-1 and a cap 14b-2. The container body 14b-1 protects the internal components such as the rotor 14c. The cap 14b-2 is attached to the container body 14b-1 before the magnetorheological fluid 14a is poured into the container body 14b-1. The cap 14b-2 seals the container body 14b-1 so that the magnetorheological fluid 14a remains inside the container body 14b-1.

[0049] The rotor 14c is fixed to a portion 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a and rotates around the rotating shaft member 11a inside the container body 14b-1. The bearing 14e is disposed between the portion 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a and the container body 14b-1 and allows the portion 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a to rotate smoothly. The coil 14d generates a magnetic field M when a current flows through it. The magnetic field M generated by the coil 14d changes the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid 14a, which changes the coefficient of friction between the rotor 14c and the magnetorheological fluid 14a. In other words, the magnetic field M controls the braking force generated as the rotating shaft member 11a rotates.

[0050] As described above, the magnetorheological fluid device 14 can control the viscosity of the magnetorheological fluid 14a and control the rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a with high precision.

[0051] Returning to Figure 2, the control device 15 is a device for comprehensively controlling each component of the load control unit 1. The control device 15 receives signals from the rotation detection unit 13 and controls the operation of the magnetorheological fluid device 14 to achieve the training load set by the user. The control device 15 can make adjustments in real time according to the progress of the training or changes in the load.

[0052] The control device 15 can determine the lifting and lowering speed of the cable 12 and whether the cable 12 is wound up or pulled out based on the data on the amount of rotation and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a sent from the rotation detection unit 13.

[0053] For example, a semiconductor substrate equipped with a microcontroller can be used as the control device 15. The control device 15 may also be provided with a power supply device for driving the control device 15.

[0054] As described above, the load control unit 1 is composed of the reel 11, the cable 12, the rotation detector 13, the magnetorheological fluid device 14, and the control device 15, which allows for precise load adjustment.

[0055] The rotation detector 13, reel 11, magnetorheological fluid device 14, and control device 15 are arranged in this order in the longitudinal direction, i.e., along the direction in which the rotating shaft member 11a extends. This arrangement allows the rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a to be transmitted to each component, allowing the entire load control unit 1 to function efficiently.

[0056] Furthermore, the load control unit 1 may include the following components, but these components are not essential components of the load control unit 1.

[0057] The load control unit 1 may include a unit case 17 that houses the rotation detection unit 13, the reel 11, and the magnetorheological fluid device 14. The load control unit 1 may also include a protective case 18 that houses and protects the control device 15.

[0058] The unit case 17 integrally houses the rotation detection unit 13, the reel 11, and the magnetorheological fluid device 14, thereby protecting these components from the external environment and protecting them from physical damage and dirt. This extends the life of these components and makes maintenance easier. Furthermore, the unit case 17 fixes these components in place, improving the stability of the entire system.

[0059] The protective case 18 houses the control device 15 and protects it from external shocks and vibrations. This reduces the risk of failure of the control device 15 and improves the reliability of the system. Furthermore, the protective case 18 may house a power supply device for driving the control device 15. This protects the power supply device and the control device 15 together, and also prevents damage or failure of the power supply device.

[0060] The unit case 17 and the protective case 18 can be combined into one unit, allowing the load control unit 1 to be housed in a single case. This integration simplifies the overall structure, making it easier to install in the training equipment 100 and to handle the load control unit 1. The integrated case also improves the durability of the entire load control unit 1, allowing it to maintain stable performance over a long period of time.

[0061] The load control unit 1 may include a joint 12b at the tip 12a of the cable 12 for connecting the tip 12a to the lift shaft 105-1. The tip 12a of the cable 12 is tied to the lower part of the joint 12b. The upper part of the joint 12b is inserted into a hole provided in the lift shaft 105-1 and fixed. For example, a screw thread may be formed at the upper part of the joint 12b, and the joint 12b may be fixed by screwing it into a hole provided in the lift shaft 105-1.

[0062] By tying the tip 12a of the cable 12 to the bottom of the joint 12b, the connection between the cable 12 and the joint 12b is strengthened, preventing the connection from coming loose during use. In addition, a screw thread is formed on the top of the joint 12b, and the structure allows it to be screwed onto the lift shaft 105-1 and fixed, making it easy to attach and detach. This makes it easy to maintain and replace parts of the load control unit 1, and simplifies maintenance of the load control unit 1.

[0063] The load control unit 1 may include a laser range finder 19. The laser range finder 19 is installed on the upper surface of the unit case 17 and is arranged so that the laser light emitting surface and light receiving surface are exposed. The light emitting surface and light receiving surface of the laser range finder 19 are arranged so as to face a part of the pin P that is not inserted into the pin insertion hole 104-2h of the weight plate 104-2.

[0064] 2, the pin P is inserted into the pin insertion hole 104-2h of the weight plate 104-2. This configuration is one example, and the same applies when the pin P is inserted into the pin insertion hole of another weight plate, for example, the pin insertion hole 104-1h of the weight plate 104-1 or the pin insertion hole 104-3h of the weight plate 104-3.

[0065] The laser range finder 19 will be further described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the weight stack 104 and laser range finder 19 as seen from the front in the front-to-rear direction, with other components omitted for clarity. In Figure 4, a pin P is inserted into a pin insertion hole 104-9h of a weight plate 104-9, and the laser range finder 19 measures the distance to the pin P inserted into the pin insertion hole 104-9h of the weight plate 104-9.

[0066] The laser distance meter 19 measures the distance to the weight plate into which the user has inserted the pin P, out of the multiple weight plates included in the weight stack 104. Based on the measurement results, the control device 15 calculates the total weight of the weight plates to be lifted. Specifically, the calculation is performed in the following procedure.

[0067] First, a laser beam L1 is emitted from the laser range finder 19. The laser beam L1 hits the pin P and is reflected. The reflected laser beam L2 is received by the laser range finder 19. The laser range finder 19 calculates the distance H between the laser range finder 19 and the pin P based on the time difference or phase difference between the emitted laser beam L1 and the received laser beam L2, or the angle difference between the emitted laser beam L1 and the received laser beam L2. The control device 15 identifies the position of the pin P based on the measured distance H.

[0068] The control device 15 determines the total number of weight plates that can be lifted based on the position of the pin P. Specifically, the weight stack 104 is made up of multiple weight plates 104-1, 104-2, 104-3, ..., and each weight plate has a known weight. When the control device 15 identifies the position of the weight plate into which the pin P is inserted, it determines that all weight plates above that position will be lifted. Therefore, the control device 15 can calculate the number of weight plates that can be lifted based on the position of the pin P and determine the total weight by adding up the weights of each.

[0069] The load control unit 1 is equipped with a laser range finder 19, which enables it to measure the total weight of the weight plates being lifted. Furthermore, because the laser range finder 19 can measure distance with extremely high accuracy, it can accurately calculate the total weight of the weight plates being lifted. This makes it possible to appropriately manage the training load. Furthermore, because the laser range finder 19 measures distance without contact, there is no risk of mechanical wear or damage. This extends the lifespan of the laser range finder 19 components and makes maintenance easier.

[0070] Furthermore, the laser range finder 19 emits a laser and measures the distance to the pin P only when the control device 15 detects the origin position of the rotating shaft member 11a. In other words, the laser range finder 19 operates only when the control device 15 detects the origin position, thereby suppressing unnecessary emission of light. This extends the life of the laser range finder 19.

[0071] Furthermore, the laser distance meter 19 does not measure the distance to the pin P when the weight is moving up and down, thereby preventing erroneous detection of the total weight of the weight plate.

[0072] (Function of Load Control Unit) The function of the load control unit 1 will be explained using Figures 1 and 2. In the following, an example will be used in which a pin P is inserted into the pin insertion hole 104-2h of the weight plate 104-2 of the weight stack 104 shown in Figure 2.

[0073] To determine the total weight of the weight plates to be lifted, the user of the training device 100 inserts a pin P into the pin insertion hole 104-2h of the weight plate 104-2, and the pin P passes through the pin insertion hole 105-1h of the lift shaft 105-1. The weight plate 104-2 and the weight plate stacked above the weight plate 104-2 are selected. When the user grasps the handle (not shown) of the training device 100 with both hands and performs the appropriate training movement, the pin P passes through the pin insertion hole 104-2h of the weight plate 104-2 and the pin insertion hole 105-1h of the lift shaft 105-1, and as the lift shaft 105-1 rises, the weight plate selected by the user also rises. Hereinafter, the movement of the user operating the handle in this manner to move the weight plate from the lowest position to the highest position is referred to as a "stroke."

[0074] When the user starts a stroke, the lift shaft 105-1 rises, and the cable 12 connected to its lower end also rises. At this time, the cable 12 is pulled out from the reel 11. When the cable 12 is pulled out from the reel 11, the rotating shaft member 11a of the reel 11 rotates. The rotation detector 13 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a. The rotation detector 13 transmits data on the detected amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a to the control device 15.

[0075] The control device 15 transmits a command to the magnetorheological fluid device 14 to change the strength of the magnetic field applied to the magnetorheological fluid 14a based on data on the amount of rotation and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a transmitted from the rotation detection unit 13. The magnetorheological fluid device 14 changes the strength of the magnetic field applied to the magnetorheological fluid 14a based on the command transmitted from the control device 15. The magnetorheological fluid device 14 generates an additional load by applying a braking force to the rotating rotating shaft member 11a. More specifically, a portion 11b of the rotating shaft member 11a is inserted into the magnetorheological fluid device 14 and is surrounded by the magnetorheological fluid 14a. The magnetorheological fluid device 14 applies a braking force to the portion 11b, thereby hindering the rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a and generating an additional load.

[0076] (Effects of the Load Control Unit) The braking force provided by the load control unit 1 can be said to be "passive" due to the following characteristics.

[0077] First, the load control unit 1 does not operate by itself, but rather applies a braking force to an external force, that is, to the rotation of the rotating shaft member 11a of the reel 11. The load control unit 1 generates a braking force in response to an external operation.

[0078] Next, the load control unit 1 adjusts the braking force in response to the user's actions, but the load control unit 1 itself does not actively initiate the action, but provides the braking force in response to the user's actions.

[0079] Furthermore, the load control unit 1 operates by acting against an external force, and the load control unit 1 provides a braking force only when the user starts training.

[0080] Furthermore, under high load conditions, the braking force provided by the load control unit 1 improves safety due to the following characteristics.

[0081] First, the load control unit 1 responds instantly to the user's movements and adjusts the strength of the magnetic field to provide an appropriate braking force. This provides a smooth and stable braking force without sudden load fluctuations. Sudden changes in load can be dangerous to the user, especially under high load conditions, but the load control unit 1 alleviates these sudden changes in load.

[0082] Next, during high-load training, users often make sudden changes in their movements, which can result in significant force being applied. The load control unit 1 instantly adjusts the braking force in response to the user's movements, thereby mitigating sudden changes in movement and reducing the impact on the user.

[0083] Furthermore, the load control unit 1 precisely adjusts the strength of the magnetic field based on commands from the control device 15. This prevents excessive strain on the user even during high loads and provides braking force within an appropriate range, reducing the risk of injury due to excessive strain. Furthermore, the magnetorheological fluid 14a has the property of instantly changing viscosity in response to the strength of the magnetic field. This allows the braking force to be adjusted the instant the user changes their movement, allowing for safe training even during high loads.

[0084] The load control unit 1 is free from wear due to mechanical friction or contact, so the risk of failure of the device itself is low and it can be used safely for a long period of time. It maintains stable performance even during high-load training.

[0085] At high loads, the forces exerted on the user are very high, and the smooth and immediate damping force modulation provided by the load control unit 1 is very important to safely control these high forces.

[0086] When the load is high, even a slight change in the load can have a significant impact on the user. The load control unit 1 minimizes the change in the load, thereby stabilizing the user's operation and improving safety.

[0087] If the user changes the movement speed mid-stroke, the load control unit 1 responds immediately and provides appropriate braking force, resulting in more effective training. This allows the user to maximize the effect of their training and improve their muscle strength and endurance.

[0088] When the user finishes the stroke, the load control unit 1 may gradually reduce the braking force to smoothly stop the operation until the end of the stroke, thereby preventing a sudden change in load at the end of the stroke and ensuring the safety of the user.

[0089] Furthermore, the rotation detector 13 provides accurate data, allowing the control device 15 to achieve precise braking force control even under high loads. This prevents excessive loads from being applied and ensures the safety of the user. The rotation detector 13 detects the movement of the rotating shaft member 11a of the reel 11 in real time, so the braking force provided by the load control unit 1 is always kept within an optimal range, allowing for safe training even under high loads.

[0090] [Modification] In the above embodiment, a laser range finder 19 was used as a means for measuring the total weight of the weight plates being lifted. This modification differs from the above embodiment in that a load cell is used instead of the laser range finder 19. The other configurations are the same as those in the above embodiment, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the load control unit 1 according to this modified example, and is a perspective view of the load control unit 1 as seen from the left rear. However, in consideration of ease of viewing the drawing, FIG. 5 only shows the unit case 17 and the load cell 31, and the other components are omitted. It should be noted that, to reiterate, the shapes of the components shown in FIG. 5 are illustrative of specific examples of this embodiment, and these shapes do not limit this embodiment. These shapes are merely examples, and other shapes are also within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0092] 5, the load cell 31 is disposed on the upper surface 17a of the unit case 17, which faces the weight stack 104 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The weight stack 104 is disposed on the upper surface 31a of the load cell 31, which faces the weight stack 104. In other words, the upper surface 31a forms the surface on which the weight stack 104 is disposed.

[0093] Before the user starts a stroke, the upper surface 31 a of the load cell 31 is loaded with the total weight of all the weight plates that make up the weight stack 104. On the other hand, after the user starts a stroke, the upper surface 31 a of the load cell 31 is loaded with the total weight of all the weight plates that make up the weight stack 104 that have not been lifted and remain on the upper surface 31 a of the load cell 31.

[0094] The control device 15 calculates the weight of the weight that moves up and down due to the user's stroke from the difference in the load applied to the upper surface 31a before and after the user starts the stroke, as measured by the load cell 31. Specifically, this is done in the following procedure.

[0095] When the user grips the handle of the training device 100 and before starting a stroke, the weight of all the weight plates that make up the weight stack 104 is applied to the upper surface 31a of the load cell 31. The control device 15 records the load at this point as the initial load W1.

[0096] When the user begins a stroke, the lift shaft 105-1 rises, lifting the selected weight plate. During and at the end of the stroke, the weight of the weight plate that was not lifted is applied to the upper surface 31a of the load cell 31. The load at this point is recorded as the remaining load W2. It is preferable to avoid recording this remaining load W2 before the weight is completely lifted or immediately after the start of the stroke. This is because the user's movements are unstable at these times, which can easily cause fluctuations in the measurement value of the load cell 31.

[0097] The control device 15 calculates the difference between the initial load W1 and the remaining load W2. This difference ΔW (ΔW = W1 - W2) is the total weight of the weight plates lifted by the user in each stroke. The control device 15 can use this difference ΔW to calculate the weight of the weight lifted by the user.

[0098] An advantageous effect of using the load cell 31 instead of the laser rangefinder 19 is that the load cell 31 directly measures the load, allowing the weight of the weight plate to be measured with high accuracy. Furthermore, compared to the laser rangefinder 19, the load cell 31 has a simpler structure and is easier to install and maintain. Furthermore, the load cell 31 has high mechanical durability, allowing it to maintain stable performance over a long period of time. This improves the reliability and durability of the load control unit 1.

[0099] [Summary] The load control unit according to aspect 1 of the present invention comprises: a reel having a rotating shaft member and rotating around the rotating shaft member; a cable connected to a lift shaft for raising and lowering a weight in the vertical direction in accordance with the stroke of a user using the training equipment, the cable being drawn out from or wound onto the reel in accordance with the raising and lowering of the lift shaft in the vertical direction; a rotation detection unit that detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member; a magnetorheological fluid device having a container for containing magnetorheological fluid and applying a braking force to an insertion portion of the rotating shaft member inserted into the container through an opening provided in the container; and a control device that controls the braking force applied by the magnetorheological fluid device to the insertion portion of the rotating rotating shaft member based on the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member detected by the rotation detection unit.

[0100] According to the above configuration, when the lift shaft moves up and down in response to the user's stroke, the cable is pulled out or wound from the reel. This causes the rotating shaft member to rotate, and the amount and direction of rotation are detected by the rotation detector. The control device controls the braking force applied to the rotating shaft member by the magnetorheological fluid device based on the detection result of the rotation detector. This makes it possible to appropriately adjust the load of the training device and provide an appropriate load to the user. Therefore, a novel configuration can be provided that takes into consideration the safety of the user when using the training device.

[0101] The load control unit according to aspect 2 of the present invention is arranged directly below the weight stack of the training device in the above-mentioned aspect 1, and further includes an assistance mechanism that assists in pulling out the cable from the reel along the vertical direction and winding the cable onto the reel along the vertical direction.

[0102] According to the above configuration, the load control unit is located directly below the weight stack, and detects the vertical movement of the weight in real time.The assistance mechanism ensures smooth vertical movement of the cable when it is being pulled out from the reel or wound up.

[0103] The load control unit according to aspect 3 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 2 above, in that in a cross-sectional view of the reel when the reel is viewed from the vertical direction, the surface of the reel on which the cable is wound is inclined with respect to the direction in which the rotating shaft member extends.

[0104] According to the above configuration, in a cross-sectional view of the reel, the surface on which the cable is wound is inclined with respect to the direction in which the rotating shaft member extends. This inclination allows the cable to be wound and pulled out smoothly, preventing the cable from becoming tangled.

[0105] The load control unit of aspect 4 of the present invention is the same as that of aspect 1 above, in that the rotation detection unit, the reel, the magnetorheological fluid device, and the control device are arranged in this order along the direction in which the rotating shaft member extends.

[0106] According to the above configuration, this arrangement allows the rotation of the rotary shaft member to be transmitted to each component, and the entire load control unit functions efficiently.

[0107] The load control unit of aspect 5 of the present invention is, in the above-mentioned aspect 2, a placement surface on which the weight stack is placed, and further includes a load cell that measures the load applied to the placement surface, and the control device calculates the weight of the weight that rises and falls due to the user's stroke from the difference between the loads applied to the placement surface measured by the load cell before and after the user starts their stroke.

[0108] According to the above configuration, the weight of the weight that rises and falls due to the user's stroke can be accurately calculated from the difference in the load measured by the load cell before and after the user starts to stroke.

[0109] The load control unit of aspect 6 of the present invention is, in aspect 2 above, further equipped with a laser rangefinder that measures the distance to a pin inserted at a position within the weight stack corresponding to the weight selected by the user, and the control device calculates the weight of the weight that rises and falls with the user's stroke from the distance to the pin measured by the laser rangefinder.

[0110] With this configuration, the weight of the weight that moves up and down depending on the user's stroke can be calculated from the distance to the pin measured by the laser rangefinder. In addition, the use of a laser rangefinder enables precise measurement without contact, reducing mechanical wear and error.

[0111] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, new technical features can be formed by combining the technical means disclosed in each embodiment.

[0112] 1 Load control unit 11 Reel 11a Rotating shaft member 12 Cable 13 Rotation detection unit 14 Magnetorheological fluid device 14a Magnetorheological fluid 14b Container 14h Opening 15 Control device 16 Support mechanism 17 Unit case 19 Laser rangefinder 31 Load cell 100 Training equipment 101 Frame 101-1 Right frame 101-2 Upper frame 101-3 Left frame 101-4 Lower frame 104 Weight stack 105-1 Lift shaft 105-2 Left guide shaft 105-3 Right guide shaft

Claims

1. A load control unit comprising: a reel having a rotating shaft member and rotating around the rotating shaft member; a cable connected to a lift shaft for raising and lowering a weight in the vertical direction in accordance with the stroke of a user using the training equipment, the cable being drawn out from or wound onto the reel in accordance with the raising and lowering of the lift shaft in the vertical direction; a rotation detection unit for detecting the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member; a magnetorheological fluid device having a container for containing magnetorheological fluid and applying a braking force to an insertion portion of the rotating shaft member inserted into the container through an opening provided in the container; and a control unit for controlling the braking force applied by the magnetorheological fluid device to the insertion portion of the rotating rotating shaft member based on the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating shaft member detected by the rotation detection unit.

2. The load control unit according to claim 1, wherein the load control unit is disposed directly below a weight stack included in the training apparatus, and further comprises an assist mechanism that assists in pulling out the cable from the reel along the vertical direction and winding the cable onto the reel along the vertical direction.

3. A load control unit as described in claim 2, wherein in a cross-sectional view of the reel when the reel is viewed from the vertical direction, the surface of the reel on which the cable is wound is inclined with respect to the direction in which the rotating shaft member extends.

4. A load control unit as described in claim 1, wherein the rotation detection unit, the reel, the magnetorheological fluid device, and the control device are arranged in this order along the direction in which the rotating shaft member extends.

5. A load control unit as described in claim 2, further comprising a placement surface on which the weight stack is placed and a load cell for measuring the load applied to said placement surface, wherein said control device calculates the weight of the weight that rises and falls due to the user's stroke from the difference between the loads applied to said placement surface measured by said load cell before and after the user starts to stroke.

6. A load control unit as described in claim 2, further comprising a laser range finder that measures the distance to a pin inserted in a position within the weight stack corresponding to the weight selected by the user, and the control device calculates the weight of the weight that moves up and down due to the user's stroke from the distance to the pin measured by the laser range finder.

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