Bidirectional Inertial Resistance Assembly for Continuous Exercise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise resistance devices provide resistance only in one direction, leading to inefficient workouts and wear and tear due to the use of compression pads or periods of no-resistance during direction changes.
Innovation Solution
A bidirectional rotational resistance assembly with a lever coupled to discs, a central axis, and a bearing, which generates resistance in both rotational directions through a rotational force reaction, utilizing inertial discs and central gears to oppose torque in opposite directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If compression pads are used to provide resistance in both directions, then resistance in both directions is achieved, but wear and tear occurs on moveable pieces requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based compression pad system with an inertial resistance system using discs and gears. The resistance is generated through rotational inertia of the discs rather than mechanical friction, eliminating wear and tear on moveable pieces while providing bidirectional resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the resistance generation mechanism from friction-based (compression pads) to inertia-based (rotating discs). By changing the physical parameter from friction force to rotational inertia, the system achieves bidirectional resistance without the wear problems of mechanical contact.
2Force
If friction-based resistance is used, then resistance is provided in both directions, but there is wear and tear of moveable pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the friction-based mechanical resistance system with an inertial resistance system. The resistance force is generated through the rotational inertia of discs connected to the lever via gears, eliminating the need for friction-based compression pads and their associated wear and tear.
3Reliability
If no friction system is used, then wear and tear is reduced, but there is a period of no-resistance when changing direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic inertial resistance through rotating discs that maintain resistance during direction changes. The rotational inertia of the discs ensures continuous resistance is provided as the lever moves back and forth, eliminating the no-resistance periods found in static or friction-based systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The inertial disc system provides continuous resistance throughout the entire range of motion including direction changes. The rotating discs maintain their rotational momentum and continue to provide resistance force without interruption, ensuring continuous useful action during the exercise cycle.
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
Provides continuous resistance in both directions without the need for replacement parts, enhancing workout efficiency and reducing wear and tear.
Implementation Method 1
a first torque imparted in a first rotational direction on the lever determines a rate of change of an angular momentum of each of the one or more discs in the first rotational direction in such a way as to oppose a second torque imparted in a second rotational direction on the lever
Implementation Method 2
utilizing inertial discs and central gears to oppose torque in opposite directions
Implementation Method 3
a bearing between the central axis and the lever
Data Source
AI summary
A bidirectional rotational resistance assembly is provided. The assembly includes a lever coupled to one or more discs so that a first torque imparted in a first rotational direction on the lever determines a rate of change of an angular momentum of each of the one or more discs in the first rotational direction in such a way as to oppose a second torque imparted in a second rotational direction on the lever, and a central axis operatively associated with lever, wherein the central axis is spaced apart from the one or more discs. For each disc of the one or more discs, a central gear interconnects the disc, and the central axle and/or disc gear operatively associates the disc and the respective central gear, wherein each disc is powered. The bidirectional rotational resistance assembly may include two opposing inertial discs.