Eccentric Muscle Exercise Pedal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cyclical exercise apparatuses primarily induce concentric muscle contractions, failing to adequately utilize eccentric muscle actions which are known to provide greater strength gains and rehabilitation benefits.
Innovation Solution
An exercise apparatus with a support structure, moveable pedals, an AC servo motor, and a power controller that allows for controlled eccentric muscle actions by limiting torque and enabling both concentric and eccentric training, along with adjustable features for user comfort and customizable training routines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cyclical exercise apparatuses are used, then the apparatus is simple to operate, but they primarily induce concentric muscle contractions and fail to provide adequate eccentric muscle action benefits
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise apparatus dynamically switches between concentric and eccentric muscle action modes by controlling the direction of pedal rotation relative to the load application. The system can operate in four distinct modes: concentric concentric, concentric eccentric, eccentric concentric, and eccentric eccentric, allowing adaptive training protocols that automatically adjust the type of muscle contraction based on predefined exercise programs.
2Reliability
If rehabilitation apparatuses operate at low speeds, then they provide safety for injured users, but they provide inadequate performance enhancement for competitive sportsmen
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus enables parameter changes by allowing speed and torque to be independently controlled across a wide range. The microprocessor-controlled system can operate at low speeds with high torque for rehabilitation, or at high speeds with appropriate torque for performance training. The ability to program different exercise protocols with varying speed and torque parameters allows the same apparatus to serve both rehabilitation and competitive sports training needs.
3Productivity
If the apparatus provides controlled eccentric muscle action by limiting torque, then exercise effectiveness is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque limitation mechanisms with electronic control systems. A microprocessor-controlled motor driver regulates motor torque through software algorithms, eliminating the need for complex mechanical friction brakes, spring-loaded clutches, or hydraulic systems that would otherwise be required to provide controlled resistance. This electronic substitution achieves precise torque control while reducing mechanical complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus allows customizable training routines with adjustable parameters, then adaptability to different training needs is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple exercise protocols and training modes through a single integrated microprocessor-based controller. The system can execute concentric and eccentric exercise protocols, implement various speed and torque profiles, and adapt to different user skill levels all through one control unit. This universal design avoids the need for separate control systems for each training mode, thereby managing complexity while maximizing adaptability.
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 apparatus effectively induces primarily eccentric muscle action, enhancing exercise effectiveness by requiring additional muscle control, core strength, and lateral stability, simulating running without joint impact, and allowing seamless adjustments for varied training needs.
Implementation Method 1
said motor (44) is an AC servo motor and the torque exerted by the motor to drive the pedal (32) in its cycle in the second direction, is limited by limiting the current supplied to the motor
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Exercise apparatus (10) is provided, which includes pedals (32) on which a user can exert loads in a first direction, and a motor (44) that is configured to drive the pedals (32) in the opposite direction and that is controlled to run at a predetermined speed, so that the loads from the user are exerted by using muscles eccentrically. The apparatus (10) is configured such that the user's body is in a generally upright orientation when using the apparatus - preferably in a standing orientation, without using a seat.