Adjustable Linkage Exercise Machine for Customized Motion Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise machines, such as ellipticals, are often bulky and not easily adjustable to accommodate different user sizes or preferences, limiting their versatility and comfort for various fitness programs.
Innovation Solution
An exercise machine with an adjustable assembly that allows users to customize the exercise movement by altering the geometry of the foot and handle linkages, enabling adjustments in stride length and motion type, such as transitioning between horizontal walking and vertical stair stepping, to suit individual needs and minimize joint stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the exercise machine uses a fixed geometry linkage assembly, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different user sizes and exercise preferences is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the linkage assembly geometry adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustability mechanism allows the relative positions and orientations of linkage components to be dynamically changed based on user size and exercise preferences, transforming a static structure into an adaptable one that can accommodate different users and exercise modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the linkage assembly. Specifically, the relative geometries of the foot linkage and handle linkage are adjustable, allowing changes in stride length, motion path, and other critical dimensions to suit different user requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the exercise machine is designed to be compact, then the space requirement is reduced, but the adjustability range for different users is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by designing the adjustable linkage components to fold or collapse into a compact configuration when not in use. The linkage assembly can be nested within the frame structure, allowing the machine to occupy minimal space while still providing full adjustability range when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space by allowing the linkage assembly to adjust in multiple dimensions. The adjustability mechanism enables changes not only in horizontal stride length but also in vertical motion path, effectively using three-dimensional space to maximize adaptability without increasing the machine's footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the exercise machine uses adjustable linkage geometry, then the versatility for different exercise types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing a single adjustable linkage assembly that can perform multiple exercise functions. The same mechanism enables different stride lengths, motion paths, and resistance patterns, allowing one structure to serve multiple exercise purposes rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the adjustment mechanism with the existing linkage structure, integrating the adaptability features into the core mechanical system rather than adding separate complex control systems. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise machine is provided. The exercise machine may include a frame, an adjustment assembly coupled to the frame and selectively movable relative thereto, a foot linkage arranged to reciprocally move in a closed loop path, and a handle linkage arranged to reciprocally move in a defined path. The adjustment assembly may include a pivot axis. The foot linkage may be pivotably coupled to the adjustment assembly at the pivot axis such that selective movement of the pivot axis relative to the frame alters the closed loop path of the foot linkage in use. Movement of one of the foot linkage and the handle linkage may cause corresponding movement of the other of the foot linkage and the handle linkage Actuation of the adjustment assembly may selectively move the pivot axis in more than one direction.