Exercise Machine Dynamic Cable Exit Vectoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exercise machines with cable training systems face challenges in maintaining a constant resisting force direction, are cumbersome and heavy, and require users to manually adjust the machine for different exercises, limiting user control and safety.
Innovation Solution
A vectoring system that allows users to control the magnitude and direction of the resisting load independently using electronically controlled load sources, such as compact electric motors, and integrated grip elements that function as user interfaces for activating and adjusting the load during exercises, enabling dynamic control of the resisting force and improved ergonomics and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional cable training machines are used with stationary cable exit points, then the structure is simple and robust, but the resisting force direction cannot be controlled and varies with grip element position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic cable exit point that moves along a guide rail in response to user traction forces. The carriage carrying the pulley system translates along the rail, automatically adjusting the cable exit position to maintain constant resisting force direction. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages while achieving precise force vector control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the user's own traction force on the grip element to drive the carriage movement. As the user pulls on the cable, the force is transmitted through the pulley system to move the carriage along the guide rail, which in turn adjusts the cable exit position. The system self-regulates without requiring external actuators or complex control mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If manually adjustable cable exit points are used, then some adaptability is achieved, but user control is limited and safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates force sensors that continuously monitor the traction force applied by the user on the grip element. This feedback signal is used to control the carriage position and cable exit point, ensuring the resisting force direction remains constant throughout the exercise range. The real-time feedback loop maintains both user control and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronically controlled system. The carriage is actuated by motors or actuators that respond to electronic control signals, replacing traditional manual cables, pulleys, and mechanical linkages. This substitution enables precise, programmable control while eliminating mechanical wear and failure modes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If electronically controlled load sources are used, then resisting force control is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic control system serves multiple functions: it controls the carriage position, regulates the resisting force magnitude, monitors user performance through sensors, and adjusts cable tension. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanical systems into a single integrated electronic platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the added electronic components.
Data Source
AI summary
Machine for gymnastic exercises comprising a sliding rail (3), a carriage (4) installed in a sliding manner on the sliding rail (3), a first pulley (21) and a second pulley (22) installed on the carriage (4) and rotatable in an idle manner around respective axes of rotation, a gripping element (6), cable traction means (16) comprising a first cable branch (a) and a second cable branch (b) provided with respective and separate connection ends (17) attached to the gripping element (6). The first cable branch (a) and the second cable branch (b) wind at least partly around the first pulley (21) and respectively the second pulley (22) to define first return segments (23) comprised between the gripping element (6) and respectively the first pulley (21) and second pulley (22), and second return segments (24) that extend one on a first side (25) and the other on a second side (26), opposite the first side (25), of the carriage (4) and substantially parallel to the sliding rail (3).