Compound Control Structure for Exercise Machine Resistance and Braking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exercise machines with integrated brake and resistance adjustment mechanisms have separate operational positions for braking and resistance adjustment, lacking integration and intuitive control.

Innovation Solution

A resistance and brake compound control structure comprising a sleeve, push rod, elastic member, compound operating member, and pushing member, allowing for simultaneous adjustment of resistance and braking through rotational and axial movements, integrating the control of resistance and braking into a single intuitive operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate control mechanisms are used for braking and resistance adjustment, then each function can be controlled independently, but the operational positions are separate and the structure is not fully integrated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidoperational integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the brake control handle and resistance adjustment handle into a single compound operating member. This compound operating member includes a rotating portion for resistance adjustment and a pushing portion for braking, both integrated into one structure that operates a single push rod, thereby achieving structural integration while maintaining functional independence

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The compound operating member serves multiple functions: the rotating portion adjusts resistance by controlling the push rod's extension, while the pushing portion activates braking by pushing the push rod axially. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace two separate control mechanisms, improving operational integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a compound operating member with both rotating and pushing functions is used, then operational integration is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational integrationVSAvoidcontrol structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compound operating member is segmented into distinct functional portions: a rotating portion for resistance adjustment and a pushing portion for braking. The push rod is also segmented with different sections responding to different inputs. This segmentation allows complex functions to be broken down into manageable, independent components that work together through a unified structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanism employs dynamic characteristics where the push rod can respond differently based on the type of input applied. The elastic member provides dynamic response by allowing controlled deformation, and the mechanism transitions between rotational and axial motion modes depending on user input, enabling multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 intuitive and convenient operation by allowing resistance adjustment and quick braking through a single compound control structure, enhancing user experience by consolidating control functions.

Implementation Method 1

The elastic member is configured to exert a force to the push rod for giving the push rod a return elastic force toward the operating end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The screw rod is screwed to the threaded hole. When the operating portion is rotated, the pushing member stays in the sleeve through the return elastic force, the screw rod is rotated relative to the pushing member, and the pushing end is rotated to push the push rod

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 3

The friction force of the resistance unit of the exercise machine is controlled by rotating or pressing operations, so that the flywheel can gradually adjust the resistance or quickly brake

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11504564B2Exercise machine and resistance and brake compound control structure thereof
Publication Date: 2022.11.22 GREAT FITNESS IND CO LTD
  • US11504564B2 patent drawing
  • US11504564B2 patent drawing
  • US11504564B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exercise machine and a resistance and brake compound control structure are disclosed. The resistance and brake compound control structure includes a sleeve, a push rod, an elastic member, a compound operating member, and a pushing member. The push rod is disposed in the sleeve. The elastic member exerts a force to the push rod for giving the push rod a return elastic force. The compound operating member includes an operating portion and a screw rod. The screw rod has a pushing end extending into the sleeve. The pushing member is disposed in the sleeve in a non-rotatable manner. The pushing member has a threaded hole. The screw rod is screwed to the threaded hole. The exercise machine uses the resistance and brake compound control structure to adjust resistance and brake.