Eddy Current Brake Control for Configurable Rowing Feel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rowing exercise machines lack the ability to provide a configurable rowing feel, failing to accurately mimic or adjust their resistance to match the feel of different types of rowing experiences, which can be important for training, competition, and user comfort.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a movable inertial element, an eddy current brake, and control circuitry to dynamically adjust resistance during the rowing stroke, allowing the machine to conform to a target rowing feel by controlling the eddy current brake torque based on flywheel speed and coil current, using models and real-time adjustments to achieve precise and accurate resistance profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed mechanical resistance system is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different rowing feels is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed mechanical resistance with a dynamically adjustable electromagnetic braking system. The brake torque can be continuously adjusted during the rowing stroke based on real-time flywheel speed and desired resistance profile, enabling the machine to adapt to different rowing feels without complex mechanical reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters by using electromagnetic brake torque instead of fixed mechanical friction. The brake torque can be precisely controlled by adjusting coil current, allowing continuous variation in resistance characteristics. This parameter control enables simulation of different water resistance conditions, boat types, and rowing intensities through electrical rather than mechanical adjustment.
2Measurement precision
If real-time resistance adjustment is implemented, then the measurement precision of rowing feel is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring flywheel speed and comparing it with the desired resistance profile. The control system adjusts brake torque in real-time based on the difference between actual and target resistance, ensuring precise replication of the desired rowing feel. This closed-loop control enables accurate measurement and reproduction of resistance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement and adjustment systems with electromagnetic sensing and control. Instead of mechanical sensors and linkages, the system uses electrical sensors to measure flywheel speed and coil current, and electronic control to adjust resistance. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving measurement precision through electronic sensing.
3Productivity
If electromagnetic braking system is added, then the productivity of resistance adjustment is improved, but the loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by adjusting the electromagnetic brake torque in sync with the rowing stroke cycle. The resistance is adjusted during the drive phase when power is needed and reduced during the recovery phase, creating a periodic variation in braking force that matches the natural rhythm of rowing. This timing optimization reduces overall energy loss while maintaining high productivity of resistance adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the electromagnetic brake by varying coil current based on stroke phase and desired resistance profile. During the drive phase, higher current provides maximum braking control, while during recovery, current is reduced to minimize energy loss. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes the balance between adjustment capability and energy consumption.
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 rowing machines to provide a customizable rowing experience that closely matches various target feels, enhancing user satisfaction, training effectiveness, and compatibility with different rowing conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an eddy current brake coupled to the movable inertial element... to cause a resistance to motion of the rowing grip
Implementation Method 2
an eddy current brake coupled to the movable inertial element... control circuitry coupled to the eddy current brake to cause a resistance to motion
Data Source
AI summary
Among other things, a rowing exercise machine includes a movable inertial element, an eddy current brake coupled to the movable inertial element, a rowing grip coupled to the movable inertial element, and control circuitry coupled to the eddy current brake to cause a resistance to motion of the rowing grip during part of a rowing stroke. The resistance to motion of the rowing grip during the drive phase of the rowing stroke conforms to a target feel for a rower. The target feel corresponds to a feel for a rower of a target other rowing exercise machine or other target feel of interest.