Adjustable Elliptical Trainer with Sliding Guiding Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional elliptical trainers have stationary pivots between the link assembly and the handle and pedal, resulting in constant motion paths, leading to user boredom and reduced usage due to lack of variation.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable elliptical trainer with an adjustment assembly that includes guiding rods, a guiding bracket, and a motor-driven bolt and nut system, allowing the pedal assemblies to move along different elliptical motion paths by adjusting the position of the guiding bracket along the guiding rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If stationary pivots are used between the link assembly and the handle and pedal, then the structure is simple and stable, but the motion paths of the handle and pedals are constant without variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the stationary pivot into a movable pivot that can slide along the link assembly. This dynamic element allows the pedal and handle motion paths to vary while maintaining the overall structural simplicity. The movable pivot position can be adjusted to change the elliptical motion characteristics without adding complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The link assembly is divided into multiple segments with the movable pivot positioned at a specific location. By segmenting the link assembly and allowing relative movement between segments, the system achieves variable motion paths while keeping each individual component relatively simple in structure.
2Ease of operation
If constant motion paths are provided, then the device structure is simple, but the user feels bored and becomes seldom using the elliptical trainer
Solution Approach 1:
The movable pivot is designed to be adjustable by the user themselves during operation. The user can change the pivot position along the link assembly to vary the motion path, eliminating the need for complex automated adjustment mechanisms while enabling user engagement through self-customization of exercise parameters.
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
Enables varied motion paths for the pedals, enhancing user engagement and reducing boredom by providing multiple exercise options, thus encouraging more frequent use of the trainer.
Implementation Method 1
The guiding bracket is mounted slidably on the guiding rods
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable elliptical trainer has a base, two driving brackets, two handles, two pedal assemblies and an adjustment assembly. The base has a transmission wheel mounted rotatably thereon. The driving brackets are connected respectively to the transmission wheel. The handles are connected pivotally and respectively to the driving brackets. The pedal assemblies are mounted at opposite sides of the transmission wheels. The adjustment assembly is mounted on the front end of the base and has two guiding rods and a guiding bracket. The guiding rods are mounted on the base. The guiding bracket is connected to the transmission wheel and mounted slidably on the guiding rods. The adjustment assembly allows the pedal assemblies to move along two different elliptical motion paths.