Digital Flywheel Resistance Control for Motorized Exercise Equipment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional exercise devices require manual adjustment of tension and are less versatile compared to digital exercise devices, which lack efficient dynamic resistance control and emulation of flywheel-based workouts.
Innovation Solution
A digital exercise device using a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor with dynamic torque control to emulate flywheel mode, allowing for continuous adjustment of tension and inertia based on user input, and incorporating a state space model to manage flywheel inertia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional exercise devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but versatility and dynamic resistance control are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical tension adjustment mechanisms with a digital motorized system. A motorized tensioning mechanism dynamically adjusts resistance levels based on user input and workout parameters, eliminating the need for manual weight plate changes and mechanical tensioners. This substitution enables versatile resistance control while maintaining relative device simplicity through electronic rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital exercise device incorporates multiple workout modes (strength training, cardiovascular, HIIT, flywheel emulation) within a single platform. The motorized resistance system can adapt to different exercise types and intensity levels, making the device universally applicable for various training goals rather than requiring separate equipment for each workout type.
2Extent of automation
If digital exercise devices are used, then dynamic torque control is improved, but emulation of traditional flywheel-based workouts is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements flywheel mode by dynamically changing torque parameters through the motor controller. The system adjusts resistance and inertia characteristics in real-time based on rotational speed and workout phase, emulating the momentum-based resistance of traditional flywheels. This parameter-based control enables authentic flywheel workout emulation while maintaining full digital automation and torque precision.
3Productivity
If manual adjustment of tension is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but workout efficiency and safety are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic resistance adjustment where the motorized tensioning system continuously adapts resistance levels during exercise based on real-time feedback from sensors and pre-programmed workout protocols. This dynamic control optimizes workout efficiency by maintaining optimal resistance throughout the range of motion while automatically adjusting for safety and user capability, eliminating manual intervention while preserving ease of use through automated operation.
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 efficient, versatile, and safe workouts that combine strength and high-intensity interval training, providing improved cardiovascular health and emulation of traditional flywheel-based exercises.
Implementation Method 1
A digital exercise device using a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor with dynamic torque control
Implementation Method 2
emulate flywheel mode, allowing for continuous adjustment of tension and inertia based on user input
Implementation Method 3
incorporating a state space model to manage flywheel inertia
Data Source
AI summary
Torque that is requested of a motor to generate an experienced inertia different from a mechanical inertia of an actuator is adjusted, wherein the experienced inertia is a flywheel inertia model. In one embodiment, the motor provides resistance to the actuator. In one embodiment, the actuator is coupled to the motor.