Computer-Controlled Actuators for Concentric and Eccentric Exercise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercising and training machines lack the ability to provide controlled eccentric force during the backswing, leading to limited flexibility and user apprehension due to the use of flywheels and cams, which restricts the effectiveness of concentric and eccentric exercises.
Innovation Solution
The use of computer-controlled double-acting actuators, such as pneumatic or electric actuators, to provide variable resistance or force during concentric and eccentric exercises, allowing for selectable ranges of motion and eliminating the need for rotating flywheels, thereby enhancing user safety and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If flywheels and cams are used to provide resistance, then concentric exercise is achieved, but user apprehension and limited flexibility occur due to lack of controlled eccentric force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical flywheel and cam systems with computer-controlled actuators that can independently control resistance during concentric motion and apply controlled force during eccentric motion. This substitution eliminates the inherent limitations of mechanical systems that could only provide passive resistance, enabling active control of both concentric and eccentric phases to reduce user apprehension and increase exercise flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static mechanical resistance to dynamic, programmable force control. The computer-controlled actuators can adjust resistance and force parameters in real-time based on user performance and rehabilitation needs, allowing the exercise regimen to adapt dynamically throughout the concentric and eccentric phases, thereby reducing apprehension and enhancing flexibility.
2Strength
If traditional weight resistance is used, then muscle building through repetition is achieved, but controlled eccentric exercise is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates computer control that monitors user performance during both concentric and eccentric phases, providing real-time feedback and adjusting resistance and force parameters accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables precise control of eccentric exercise parameters while maintaining progressive overload for muscle building, something unachievable with traditional passive weight resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer-controlled system automatically manages the complexity of coordinating resistance and force application during concentric and eccentric phases, eliminating the need for users to manually control multiple parameters. The system self-adjusts based on programmed protocols, making controlled eccentric exercise as easy to perform as traditional repetition-based strength training.
3Force
If flywheels are used for concentric exercise, then resistance is provided, but user safety is reduced due to inability to control eccentric force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces passive mechanical flywheel resistance with active computer-controlled actuators that can independently manage force application during both concentric and eccentric phases. This substitution transforms the system from providing uncontrolled resistance to providing precisely controlled force, eliminating safety concerns associated with uncontrolled eccentric motion while maintaining effective resistance for concentric exercise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-programs controlled force application during the eccentric phase to prevent excessive or uncontrolled forces that could cause injury. By anticipating potential safety issues and implementing preventive control algorithms, the system ensures user safety before problems occur, rather than relying on passive mechanical limitations.
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
This solution enables more ergonomic and user-friendly exercises with improved control over resistance and force, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for more effective muscle training across a wider range of motion, suitable for various user conditions and rehabilitation needs.
Implementation Method 1
computer-controlled actuators, such as pneumatic or electric actuators, to provide variable resistance or force
Implementation Method 2
pneumatic actuators to provide variable resistance or force during concentric and eccentric exercises
Data Source
AI summary
An exercising machine for exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, including an exercising attachment for exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part, a computer-controlled resistance actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a resistance for concentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion, a computer-controlled force actuator operatively connected to the exercising attachment to impart a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion, a computer for controlling the actuators and a method for exercising, including imparting a resistance for concentric exercising of a user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a forward range of motion and imparting a force for eccentric exercising of the user's torso, arm, leg or other body part through a reverse range of motion.