Exercise Device Active Bar Stabilization With Dual-Motor Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise equipment, such as cable machines and weight-training devices, struggle to provide stable resistance training that mimics the stabilizing effect of traditional free weights, leading to uneven muscle engagement and increased stress on stabilizer muscles, while also being space-inefficient and lacking user-friendly digital feedback.
Innovation Solution
A dual-motor system with independent cable control mechanisms, using high-resolution encoders and a closed-loop control system to regulate tension in each cable independently, mimicking the stabilizing effect of barbells and allowing for a variety of exercises, including barbell and dumbbell simulations, with integrated digital feedback and safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional free weights are used for resistance training, then the stabilizing effect and natural muscle engagement are improved, but safety risks and environmental damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cable system with pulleys as an intermediary between the user and the resistance mechanism. The cables transmit force while allowing controlled movement, providing the stabilizing effect of free weights without the safety risks. The cable tension can be precisely controlled by the motor system to match user capability, eliminating the danger of uncontrolled heavy weights while maintaining natural muscle engagement patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weight systems with an electromechanical system. Instead of using actual heavy weights that pose safety risks, the system uses a motor-driven cable tensioning mechanism with encoders and control algorithms to simulate the feel and stabilizing effect of free weights. This substitution maintains the beneficial stabilizing effect while eliminating safety hazards through electronic control and feedback mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If cable machines with weights are used, then exercise versatility is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal exercise device where a single cable-pulley system can perform multiple exercises by changing attachment points and cable configurations. The motorized tensioning system can adapt to different exercise types (pull-ups, rows, presses, etc.) without requiring separate weight stacks or multiple machines. This multi-functionality achieves exercise versatility while minimizing space requirements through a compact, integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential function of weight resistance from traditional bulky weight machines and isolates it into a compact motor-driven cable tensioning system. By removing the need for large weight stacks and complex mechanical linkages, the system achieves versatility through software control and cable routing while dramatically reducing the physical space required for the equipment.
3Weight of moving object
If resistance stretch bands are used, then portability is improved, but force controllability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic resistance system where the cable tension is continuously adjusted by a motor based on real-time feedback from encoders and force sensors. Unlike static resistance bands with fixed spring constants, this system can dynamically modify the resistance profile during exercise to match optimal training curves and user capability. The motor controller adjusts tension in real-time, providing precise force controllability while maintaining the portability of a cable-based system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including encoders on the motor shaft and force sensors in the cable system. This feedback enables the control system to precisely measure cable extension and tension, allowing the motor to adjust resistance in real-time. The closed-loop control ensures accurate force delivery and controllability, overcoming the limitations of passive resistance bands while maintaining portability through electronic rather than mechanical complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic and flywheel mechanisms are used, then resistance variability is improved, but speed-dependent resistance control worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces magnetic and flywheel mechanisms with a direct-drive motor system coupled to the cable via a spool. This substitution eliminates the speed-dependent resistance characteristic of magnetic and flywheel systems. The motor controller can independently regulate cable tension regardless of movement speed, providing precise resistance control that is not coupled to velocity. The encoder feedback enables the system to maintain设定的 resistance levels even when movement speed varies, achieving true adaptability without speed-dependent limitations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating an exercise device including a first motor, a second motor, a first spool coupled to the first motor, a second spool coupled to the second motor, a first cable coupled to the first spool for winding onto and off the first spool in response to a torque applied by the first motor, a second cable coupled to the second spool for winding onto and off the second spool in response to a torque applied by the second motor, the method comprising: determining a first value related to an extension of the first cable from the first spool, determining a second value related to an extension of the second cable from the second spool, determining a difference between the first and second values, and adjusting the torque applied by at least one of the motors based on the difference between the first value and the second value.