Multi-function Exercise Device Four-bar Linkage Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exercise devices lack versatility in allowing users to perform a range of motions similar to glider, stepper, and elliptical exercises with efficient resistance mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function exercise device featuring a supporting frame, linkage members, wheel units, coupler bars, load-resistance members, and an accelerating unit, which form a four-bar linkage system to enable various motion types by adjusting the forces exerted on foot pedals, allowing for rotational and swinging movements with adjustable resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional exercise device uses a simple linkage mechanism, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot provide multiple exercise motions (glider, stepper, elliptical)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single exercise device that can perform multiple exercise motions (glider, stepper, elliptical) through one integrated linkage mechanism. The four-bar linkage system with adjustable parameters allows the same mechanical structure to generate different motion patterns, eliminating the need for separate devices for each exercise type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamics by making the linkage mechanism adjustable and reconfigurable. The ability to change the configuration of the four-bar linkage (by adjusting link lengths and pivot positions) allows the device to dynamically adapt between different exercise modes, transforming a static structure into a dynamically versatile system.
2Force
If a conventional exercise device uses a complex resistance mechanism, then the device can provide effective resistance, but the device structure becomes complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the resistance mechanism with the linkage system itself. Rather than using separate complex resistance devices, the invention integrates resistance generation into the four-bar linkage structure, where the mechanical advantage and force multiplication are achieved through the linkage geometry and configuration rather than additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism serves dual purposes: it generates the exercise motion and simultaneously provides the resistance force. The mechanical advantage inherent in the four-bar linkage system automatically generates appropriate resistance during exercise movements, eliminating the need for separate resistance generation systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional exercise device uses fixed linkage parameters, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot adapt to different exercise intensities and user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by allowing adjustment of the four-bar linkage parameters (link lengths, pivot positions, connection points) to modify exercise intensity and motion characteristics. Users can change these physical parameters to adapt the device to different fitness levels and exercise requirements, transforming a fixed-parameter system into an adjustable one.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function exercise device includes a supporting frame, a pair of linkage members, a first wheel unit, and a second wheel unit. Each of two first coupler bars couples a front link of the respective linkage member to the first wheel unit to permit rotation of the first wheel unit in response to upward movement of the front link of one of the linkage members. Each of two second coupler bars couples a rear link of the respective linkage member to the second wheel unit to permit rotation of the second wheel unit in response to swinging movement of the rear link. Two load-resistance members are provided for retarding rotations of the first and second wheel units, respectively.