Eccentric-Disc Vibration Unit for Directional Bicycle Ergometer Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibration ergometers generate non-directional vibrations that exceed occupational health limits, leading to reduced use duration and lack of broad conditioning-coordinative multifunctionality, necessitating additional training equipment for holistic training.
Innovation Solution
An ergometer with a vibration unit featuring an eccentric disc and connecting rod system that generates vibrations exclusively in one direction, with adjustable amplitude and frequency, and includes a compensation mechanism to prevent unwanted vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vibration energy is transmitted to the user via known devices, then vibration training effect is achieved, but non-directional vibrations exceed occupational health limits and reduce use duration
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration unit segments the vibration transmission by using separate vibration elements (first and second vibration elements) that independently transmit vibrations in opposite directions, allowing precise control of vibration direction and magnitude to stay within health limits while extending safe use duration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies counterweight principles by having two vibration elements transmit vibrations in opposite directions, where the vibrations partially cancel each other out, reducing the net vibration exposure to the user while maintaining the training effect within safe occupational health limits
2Productivity
If rigid connection between bottom bracket and vibration plate is used, then vibration transmission is efficient, but non-directional vibrations are generated and chain tensioner is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid connection with a dynamic system where the crankshaft rotates to drive vibration elements that transmit vibrations in controlled directions. This dynamic approach eliminates the need for chain tensioners and safety measures while maintaining efficient vibration transmission through the controlled motion of the vibration elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the chain-driven mechanical system with a direct vibration transmission system where the crankshaft directly drives vibration elements. This replacement eliminates the complex chain tensioner mechanism and associated safety measures while achieving efficient vibration transmission through direct mechanical coupling
3Loss of energy
If vibration amplitude decreases with mechanical load, then energy conservation is achieved, but training effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using a high-torque motor capable of maintaining constant vibration amplitude across varying mechanical loads. This parameter change ensures that training effectiveness is maintained regardless of load variations, while the system conserves energy through efficient motor operation and controlled vibration transmission
4Adaptability or versatility
If whole-body vibrations are generated, then broad conditioning effect is achieved, but occupational health limits are exceeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by directing vibrations primarily to the lower extremities through the pedal mechanism rather than generating whole-body vibrations. This localized approach provides targeted conditioning to the intended muscle groups while keeping overall vibration exposure within occupational health limits
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 ergometer provides precise, directional vibrations that are independent of load, allowing extended use without exceeding health limits and enabling comprehensive training without additional equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration unit (100) featuring an eccentric disc (6) and connecting rod (1) system that generates vibrations exclusively in one direction
Implementation Method 2
generates vibrations exclusively in one direction, with adjustable amplitude and frequency
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a bicycle ergometer, comprising at least one pedaling device for a user and a vibration unit, wherein: the vibration unit has at least one main shaft (12), which is driven directly or indirectly by a motor (54) and has an eccentric disk (6) fastened thereto; the eccentric disk (6) is rotatably coupled to a connecting rod (1); and the connecting rod (1) transmits, by means of a rod eye (1a) disposed on opposite from the eccentric disk (6), the vibrations to the bearing (29) of the pedaling device such that the vibrations are applied substantially exclusively to this bearing (29) in the vertical direction.