Digital Resistance Racking With Adaptive Torque for Eccentric Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional strength training methods lack the ability to dynamically adjust resistance to accommodate individual muscle tension variations and asymmetric protocols, making it difficult for users to effectively engage in eccentric loading and maintain proper form, especially with makeshift solutions.
Innovation Solution
A digital strength trainer system using a three-phase brushless DC motor controlled by a processor to dynamically adjust torque, allowing for arbitrary applied tension curves and phase changes, mimicking the behavior of a weight stack with electronic resistance, enabling concentric, eccentric, and isometric movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional strength training methods are used, then simplicity and ease of operation are maintained, but the ability to dynamically adjust resistance and accommodate individual muscle tension variations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical resistance systems (weight stacks, pulleys, cables) with an electronic motor-controlled system. A brushless DC motor coupled to a hub dynamically generates resistance torque, eliminating the need for physical weight stacks while enabling programmable, adaptive resistance profiles that respond to user performance in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance profile is made dynamic through real-time motor control based on feedback from encoders and force sensors. The system continuously adjusts torque delivery during exercise movements, adapting resistance levels to match individual muscle tension variations and exercise phase requirements, rather than using fixed mechanical weights.
2Adaptability or versatility
If makeshift solutions are used for asymmetric protocols, then adaptability is improved, but safety and reliability deteriorate due to inability to maintain proper form
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates encoders on the motor shaft and force sensors that continuously monitor position, velocity, and applied force. This feedback is processed by a controller that adjusts motor torque in real-time to maintain proper exercise form and prevent dangerous movements, enabling safe asymmetric protocols where resistance differs between concentric and eccentric phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically monitors user performance and adjusts resistance levels without external intervention. The system self-regulates torque delivery based on real-time sensor data, maintaining safety and proper form autonomously rather than requiring external supervision or correction.
3Productivity
If high weight is used for strength training, then training effectiveness is improved, but the risk of injury and danger increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor-controlled system proactively prevents dangerous situations by continuously monitoring exercise execution and adjusting resistance to stay within safe limits. The system applies counter-torque through the motor to prevent excessive loading or improper form before injury can occur, rather than merely reacting to failures after they happen.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes resistance parameters (torque, force, power) during exercise based on real-time performance data. Rather than using fixed high weights that pose injury risk, the motor controller continuously adjusts these parameters to optimize training effectiveness while maintaining safety margins, enabling high-intensity training without proportional increase in injury risk.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional weight stacks are used, then mechanical simplicity is maintained, but the ability to provide arbitrary tension curves and phase changes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed mechanical tension curves inherent in weight stack systems with electronically controlled torque profiles. The motor controller generates arbitrary tension curves by programming torque as a function of position, velocity, or time, enabling customized resistance patterns that cannot be achieved with traditional mechanical weight stacks.
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 system provides a safe, efficient, and effective strength training experience by dynamically adjusting resistance to match individual muscle tension, facilitating asymmetric protocols and improving muscle engagement, particularly in eccentric loading, while maintaining proper form and reducing the risk of injury.
Implementation Method 1
a three-phase brushless DC motor controlled by a processor to dynamically adjust torque
Data Source
AI summary
Assisted racking of digital resistance includes detecting a state of a cable. A motor is mechanically coupled to the cable to provide resistance during an exercise by tensioning the cable. It further includes determining completion of the exercise based at least in part on the detected state of the cable. It further includes selectively removing resistance from the cable based at least in part on the determination that the user has completed the exercise.