Adjustable Resistance Exercise Machine Using Cam Knob Spring Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power spring-based exercise machines lack the ability to adjust resistance torque and often have rough, discontinuous extension and retraction due to friction, limiting user preference and increasing the risk of joint or soft tissue injury.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable resistance exercise machine that incorporates a plurality of power springs with a cam knob system allowing users to engage or disengage springs to adjust the resistance force, providing a smooth and continuous resistance experience by varying the number of power springs engaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single power spring is used to provide resistance, then the machine is simple and transportable, but the resistance torque cannot be adjusted and the extension/retraction becomes rough and discontinuous due to friction
Solution Approach 1:
The power spring system is segmented into multiple independent power springs (first power spring, second power spring, etc.), each capable of being independently engaged or disengaged. This segmentation allows the user to select the appropriate number of springs based on desired resistance levels, thereby adjusting torque while maintaining smooth operation by distributing the friction load across multiple springs rather than concentrating it in a single spring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static single-spring configuration to a dynamic multi-spring configuration where the number of engaged springs can be changed during operation. The selective engagement mechanism allows users to dynamically adjust resistance by engaging additional springs as needed, creating a adaptable system that responds to varying exercise requirements while maintaining operational smoothness.
2Force
If multiple power springs are engaged to increase resistance torque, then the resistance force increases, but friction between windings increases causing rough and discontinuous extension and retraction
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the total resistance requirement into multiple smaller power springs instead of using one large spring, the system achieves high resistance torque through cumulative effect of multiple springs. Each spring operates within optimal friction ranges, and the segmented configuration allows the cable to distribute wear and friction across multiple contact points, maintaining smooth extension and retraction even at high resistance levels.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power springs are merged in parallel to collectively provide the required resistance torque. The combined output of multiple springs achieves the desired force level while each individual spring maintains manageable friction characteristics. The merging of multiple spring systems creates a synergistic effect where the total resistance is the sum of individual spring forces, and the friction is distributed rather than concentrated.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the number of power springs is increased to provide adjustable resistance, then user preference and exercise variety improve, but the device becomes less transportable
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance system is segmented into multiple modular power springs that can be independently engaged or disengaged. This modular segmentation allows the machine to provide adjustable resistance levels (from single spring to multiple springs combined) without requiring a proportional increase in total machine weight, as only the necessary number of springs are actively used at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The same set of power springs serves multiple functions: they can be individually engaged to provide different resistance levels for various exercise intensities, and the combination of springs can be adjusted to create different torque profiles. This multi-functionality allows a single machine configuration to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate machines or heavy adjustable weight systems.
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 users to customize resistance levels, reducing the risk of injury by providing a variable and adjustable resistance force, enhancing the exercise experience with improved smoothness and user control.
Implementation Method 1
Power springs, also referred to as clock springs, are spiral torsion springs that produce torque about a center arbor
Implementation Method 2
spring force is variable, increasing at a rate relative to the distance that a spring is extended or compressed, a principle of physics known as Hooke's Law
Implementation Method 3
An adjustable resistance exercise machine that incorporates a plurality of power springs with a cam knob system allowing users to engage or disengage springs
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable resistance exercise machine for providing variable resistance forces on a pull cable extending from the machine. The adjustable resistance exercise machine generally includes a plurality of power springs that may be selectively engaged using a cam mechanism. By engaging springs with different forces, the resistance may be adjusted incrementally as preferred for performing different exercises. The adjustable resistance exercise machine may be connected to various structures, either below or above an exerciser, to allow the exerciser to choose whether to pull the pull cable up or down during exercise.