Variable-Resistance Cable Assembly With Selectable Spring Loading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional resistance-based workout devices are large, heavy, difficult to transport, require substantial space, and may need prior knowledge to use, with mechanical designs needing battery charging and electronic designs posing tripping hazards.

Innovation Solution

A cable training assembly with a screw mechanism that deflects springs to provide adjustable resistance, housed in a portable device, using a selector assembly with a knob for varying resistance levels and an intermittent gear system for smooth motion and high load support.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If conventional physically weighted workout devices are used to provide resistance, then resistance training function is achieved, but device size and weight become excessively large

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance forceVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the conventional mechanical weight stack system with an elastic element (spring) that provides resistance through its elastic properties. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy physical weights while maintaining the resistance training function, directly resolving the contradiction between providing sufficient resistance force and keeping device weight manageable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a selectable mechanism that allows users to change the resistance parameter by engaging different elastic elements or adjusting the same element. This enables variable resistance levels without requiring multiple heavy weight stacks, thus providing diverse resistance forces while keeping the device lightweight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Force

If conventional physically weighted workout devices are used to provide resistance, then resistance training function is achieved, but device volume becomes excessively large

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance forceVSAvoiddevice area

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the space-consuming mechanical weight stack and pulley system with compact elastic elements that generate resistance forces. This substitution dramatically reduces the horizontal footprint of the device while maintaining full resistance training functionality, resolving the contradiction between providing adequate resistance force and minimizing device area.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Force

If conventional mechanically resistant workout devices are used, then resistance training function is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring prior knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance forceVSAvoidease of use

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a selector mechanism that allows users to independently choose their desired resistance level without requiring knowledge of proper form or technique. The device provides intuitive, self-guided operation where users can adjust parameters to match their abilities, making resistance training accessible to beginners while maintaining proper mechanical resistance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Force

If conventional electronic resistance workout devices are used, then resistance training function is achieved, but safety deteriorates due to tripping hazards from power outlets

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance forceVSAvoidsafety hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces electronic resistance mechanisms that require power outlets with a purely mechanical elastic element system. This eliminates the need for electrical infrastructure and associated tripping hazards, providing a safe, self-contained resistance training device that operates independently of external power sources while maintaining effective resistance force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 device is compact, lightweight, easy to move, and user-friendly, offering variable resistance without prior knowledge, and reduces maintenance needs.

Implementation Method 1

A screw mechanism is operatively coupled to the cable. The screw mechanism is configured to deflect at least one spring. The deflection of the spring exerts a retraction force on the cable.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20260097258A1Variable-resistance cable training assembly and methods of use

Publication Date: 2026.04.09 ANCHOR HEALTH & FITNESS INC

AI summary

A cable training assembly disposable within a portable housing includes a cable configured for pulling by a user and a screw mechanism configured to deflect at least one spring. The deflection of the spring exerts a retraction force on the cable in opposition to a force exerted on the cable by the user. A selector assembly includes a knob that is rotatable by the user to select or deselect a spring acting on the cable.