Elliptical Pedal Path for Stepping Machine Motion Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerobic exercise machines lack variability in resistance and motion simulation, limiting the effectiveness of indoor workouts by not adequately mimicking the intensity and movement patterns of outdoor aerobic exercises.
Innovation Solution
A vertical stepping machine with a crank wheel, pedal beam, linkage assembly, and rotary resistance mechanism that allows for an elliptical path with a vertical major axis and horizontal minor axis, featuring adjustable resistance and incline, enhancing the workout experience through a combination of mechanical and rotational components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional stationary exercise machines use simple reciprocating foot pedals, then the device complexity is low, but the motion simulation effectiveness is insufficient and cannot adequately mimic outdoor aerobic exercises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing an adjustable pedal path mechanism that can dynamically change the ellipse parameters (major axis, minor axis, inclination angle) to simulate different outdoor terrain conditions. The foot supports can adjust their reciprocating path from flat to inclined positions, allowing the machine to adapt to various exercise scenarios and mimic different outdoor aerobic exercise patterns effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional dimension of motion by enabling the foot supports to move along inclined elliptical paths rather than just flat horizontal paths. The inclination angle adjustment adds a vertical component to the motion, creating a three-dimensional exercise trajectory that better simulates outdoor climbing and terrain variation, thereby improving motion simulation effectiveness
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable resistance mechanisms are added to exercise machines, then the workout intensity variability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a multi-functional resistance system that combines spring mechanisms, friction-based adjustable resistance, and variable gear ratios in a single integrated transmission system. This allows the machine to provide multiple resistance types and adjustment capabilities without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as these functions share common mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the resistance generation and transmission functions into a unified mechanical system where the spring-loaded resistance mechanism is integrated with the gear transmission system. The friction adjusters are combined with the gear selection mechanism, allowing resistance and gear ratio changes to be controlled through integrated components rather than separate systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If the pedal path is changed to an elliptical path with vertical major axis, then the climbing motion simulation improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to increased mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pedal path geometry dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The foot supports can be positioned to create different ellipse configurations (vertical major axis for climbing, horizontal for flat terrain) through adjustable linkages and pivot points. This allows the machine to simulate climbing motions when needed while maintaining simplicity for flat terrain exercises, balancing climbing simulation capability with ease of operation
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 machine provides a more dynamic and adjustable workout experience, simulating climbing and running motions with variable resistance, improving user engagement and cardiovascular benefits.
Implementation Method 1
The rotary resistance mechanism may include at least one fan blade
Implementation Method 2
The rotary resistance mechanism may include a flywheel
Data Source
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AI summary
A vertical stepping machine includes a frame, a crank wheel connected to the frame, a crank wheel connected to the frame, a pedal beam having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is in mechanical communication with the crank wheel, a pedal connected to the second end of the pedal beam, a linkage assembly connected to the frame and to the pedal beam, an arm support rotatably connected to the frame, an arm linkage connecting the arm support to the linkage assembly, and a rotary resistance mechanism positioned above the crank wheel when the vertical stepping machine is in an upright orientation. The pedal beam moves in an elliptical path when the crank wheel rotates and the elliptical path has a vertical major axis and a horizontal minor axis when the vertical stepping machine is in an upright position.