Adjustable Pace Length Elliptical Trainer Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional elliptical trainers have a fixed pace length, which is not suitable for users of varying heights, limiting the effectiveness of the workout and not accommodating individual user needs.

Innovation Solution

An exercise device with a frame, rotational mechanism, coupling mechanisms, and a pace-adjusting assembly that allows for adjustable pace length by using a driving device to lift or lower swing structures, thereby changing the angle of linkage structures and moving the pedals to different positions, allowing for customizable pace length between 18 and 24 inches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the pace length is fixed in conventional elliptical trainers, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the device cannot accommodate users of varying heights and cannot provide optimal training effect for all users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to users of varying heightsVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the pace length adjustable rather than fixed. The linkage structure can be repositioned along the arc-shaped guide rail, allowing the distance between pedals to be dynamically changed according to user height requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the pace length parameter to be adjusted within a specific range (18-24 inches). The linkage structure can be positioned at different locations along the guide rail, changing the geometric parameters of the mechanism to suit different user heights while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If the pace length is adjusted to accommodate different user heights, then the training effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional adjustment mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the adjustment mechanism into discrete, modular components. The linkage structure can be positioned at predetermined locations along the arc-shaped guide rail, allowing simple manual adjustment without complex control systems. This segmented approach enables ease of operation while controlling overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9199116B1Exercise device providing adjustable pace length
Publication Date: 2015.12.01 DYACO INT INC
  • US9199116B1 patent drawing
  • US9199116B1 patent drawing
  • US9199116B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An exercise device comprises a frame, a rotational mechanism, a left and a right coupling mechanism, and a pace-adjusting mechanism. A supporting structure is upwardly extended from the front end of the frame. The rotational mechanism is arranged at the supporting structure. The left and right coupling mechanisms are arranged at a side of the supporting structure, respectively. One end of the left and right coupling mechanism couples to the rotational mechanism, and the other end respectively comprise a left and a right pedal assembly for making a moving path. The pace-adjusting mechanism comprises a left and a right linkage assembly, a left and a right swing assembly, and a driving device. The pace-adjusting mechanism can alter the pace length of the left and right pedal assembly.