Exercise Machine Actuator Path Tracking for Real-Time Form Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise form detection technologies, particularly those using computer vision, are inaccurate and inconvenient, leading to potential injuries and reduced exercise efficacy due to incorrect movement performance.
Innovation Solution
A digital strength training machine using a three-phase brushless direct-current motor to generate resistance, combined with sensors and a form detection system that analyzes the spatio-temporal path of actuators to provide real-time form feedback and guidance, enhancing exercise safety and effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If computer vision technology is used for form detection, then the system can detect exercise form, but the detection accuracy is insufficient and the system is inconvenient to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces computer vision-based form detection with a mechanical sensor system that directly measures actuator position and movement. Sensors are integrated into the exercise machine's mechanical components to detect form deviations through physical measurement rather than visual analysis, significantly improving both accuracy and ease of use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary sensor system that bridges the user's movement and the feedback mechanism. These sensors act as mediators by converting mechanical movement into electrical signals that can be processed and translated into actionable form feedback, eliminating the need for complex computer vision algorithms
2Reliability
If no form detection system is used, then the exercise machine is simple to operate, but incorrect movements can lead to injury and reduced exercise efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the form detection functionality with the existing exercise machine structure by integrating sensors into the actuator system. This combination allows the machine to simultaneously provide resistance training and form monitoring without requiring separate detection equipment, thereby improving safety while minimizing added complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The exercise machine performs self-monitoring of form through integrated sensors that automatically detect and analyze user movements. The system provides real-time feedback without requiring external trainers or additional monitoring equipment, enabling the machine to serve its own safety and efficacy monitoring needs
3Reliability
If real-time form feedback is provided, then exercise safety and efficacy are improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor actuator position and movement characteristics, compare them against correct form parameters, and provide real-time corrective feedback to the user. This closed-loop system ensures exercise effectiveness by immediately alerting users to form deviations
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it measures actuator position for resistance control, detects form deviations for safety monitoring, and provides feedback for performance optimization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and minimizes overall device complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides accurate and effective form detection, reducing the risk of injury and improving exercise performance by ensuring correct movement execution through personalized and real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a three-phase brushless direct-current motor to generate resistance
Data Source
AI summary
Detecting quality of use of an exercise machine includes detecting a path of an actuator over time during use of the exercise machine. It further includes characterize the path including generating at least one parameter associated with the path. It further includes comparing the at least one parameter associated with the detected path to a canonical parameter.Providing feedback on quality of use of an exercise machine includes determining a quality of a use of the exercise machine. The quality of the use of the exercise machine is determined based at least in part on a detected path of an actuator over time. It further includes performing an action that is based at least in part on the determined quality of the use of the exercise machine.