Arc Segment Selection for Variable Foot Path Exercise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise machines for simulating walking or running lack adjustable foot paths and resistance mechanisms that vary non-linearly with user input, limiting the variety and intensity of workouts.
Innovation Solution
An exercise apparatus with a foot support that can move along multiple arc segments of a master arcuate path, allowing users to select different inclines and resistance levels through a manually actuatable arc segment selection device, and a non-linearly force-dependent resistance mechanism that adjusts resistance exponentially or geometrically with speed, force, or power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the foot support is limited to a fixed arcuate path, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The master arcuate path is divided into multiple selectable arc segments, allowing the foot support to travel through different portions of the overall arc. This segmentation enables variety in foot path geometry without requiring multiple complete mechanisms, as each segment is defined by adjustable parameters within the same mechanical framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus employs dynamically adjustable parameters including arc segment selection, stride length adjustment, and incline modification. These dynamic elements allow the fixed mechanical structure to produce variable foot paths, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the resistance assembly varies resistance linearly with user force, then the mechanism is simpler, but the workout intensity and variety are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance mechanism transforms the linear force-input relationship into a non-linear resistance-output relationship by modifying physical parameters during operation. As the foot support moves through different arc segments at varying speeds, the resistance mechanism adjusts its output force non-linearly, providing diverse workout intensities without complex electronic controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance varies periodically throughout each exercise cycle as the foot support traverses the arc segment. The resistance mechanism exploits the periodic nature of the motion to create varying force requirements during different phases of the stride, enhancing workout variety through the inherent cyclic operation rather than continuous adjustment mechanisms.
3Power
If the foot support travels through a longer arc segment, then the exercise intensity increases, but the time to complete one cycle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus allows dynamic selection of arc segment length to balance intensity and time requirements. Users can select shorter arc segments for higher-intensity, faster workouts or longer arc segments for lower-intensity, more extended exercise, providing flexibility to match different training goals without being constrained to a fixed cycle time.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise apparatus comprising a foot support movable by the user on the frame back and forth through any one of a plurality of complete, reproducible and different arc segments of a master arcuate path, the foot support being interconnected to an arc segment selection device that is manually actuatable to enable the user to manually select any one of the plurality of different arc segments, the foot support being interconnected to an arm having a handle manually graspable by the user to reduce or increase power or energy required by the user to move the foot support.