Elliptical Drive Mechanism Foot Platform Angle Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elliptical cycles with fixed foot platforms are limited by the length of the drive arm, leading to uncomfortable foot angles that can cause injuries and restrict the design of the device, necessitating a longer frame and higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A camming foot platform that adjusts the foot platform angle relative to the drive arm throughout the pedaling stroke, allowing for a shorter drive arm and frame while maintaining stability and comfort, using a mechanism with a cam assembly that interacts with a rear cam follower portion to control the foot platform angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed foot platform is used on existing elliptical cycles, then the drive arm length is determined by the frame design, but the foot angles become uncomfortable and can cause injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The foot platform is transformed from a fixed attachment to a dynamically adjustable component. The cam mechanism enables the foot platform angle to vary continuously throughout the pedaling stroke, adapting to optimal anatomical positions rather than maintaining a static angle. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by providing comfortable foot angles without requiring a longer frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the angular parameter of the foot platform throughout the motion cycle. By using a cam profile that varies the foot platform angle relative to the drive arm during the pedaling stroke, the system optimizes foot position for comfort and injury prevention while maintaining the original drive arm length and frame dimensions.
2Length of moving object
If the drive arm length is reduced to create a compact device, then the overall device size and cost are reduced, but the foot platform angle becomes unstable with fixed attachments
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism serves as an intermediary between the drive arm and the foot platform. This intermediate component transfers motion from the drive arm to the foot platform while simultaneously controlling the foot platform's angular orientation. The cam profile acts as a mediator that ensures stable, controlled angle variation throughout the stroke, resolving the instability issue that would otherwise result from using a shorter drive arm.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a pivoting foot platform is used to allow angle variation, then foot angle flexibility is improved, but the rider experiences instability and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements controlled dynamics rather than free pivoting. The cam mechanism guides the foot platform through a predetermined angular path that optimizes comfort while maintaining stability. Unlike unrestricted pivoting that allows random motion, the cam-controlled system provides predictable, repeatable angle variation that enhances both adaptability and rider stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism provides mechanical feedback control for the foot platform angle. The cam profile is designed based on optimal anatomical positions, creating a feedback loop where the mechanism automatically returns the foot platform to the correct angle throughout the stroke. This feedback control prevents the instability and fatigue associated with free-pivoting platforms.
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 a more compact and cost-effective elliptical device design with reduced strain on the rider's joints, allowing for varied foot positions and a more efficient workout experience without the instability of pivoting platforms.
Implementation Method 1
a camming foot platform that adjusts the foot platform angle relative to the drive arm throughout the pedaling stroke... using a mechanism with a cam assembly that interacts with a rear cam follower portion
Data Source
AI summary
A drive mechanism for an elliptically-driven device includes a drive arm with a foot platform pivot assembly; a crank arm; a foot platform assembly pivotally coupled to the drive arm via the foot platform pivot assembly; a foot platform angle adjustment mechanism operably coupling the foot platform assembly to the crank arm so as to impart a foot platform angle of the foot platform assembly relative to the drive arm that varies during a stroke of the foot platform assembly.