Exercise Machine Desk Control Modules

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exercise machines lack a convenient and integrated solution for users to access control modules during workouts, especially when a desk is folded down, limiting user interaction with the machine's controls.

Innovation Solution

An exercise machine design featuring a desk with a first control module accessible when upright and concealed when folded, accompanied by a second control module located elsewhere, such as in hand holds or the back side of the desk, which is disabled when the first module is accessible, allowing reduced but still functional control during workouts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a desk is folded down to provide workspace during exercise, then workspace availability is improved, but accessibility to the control module deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkspace availabilityVSAvoidaccessibility to control module
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two separate control modules: a first control module integrated with the desk and a second control module positioned independently (in hand holds or on the back side of the desk). This segmentation allows the user to access controls through multiple locations, resolving the contradiction between having the desk folded down for workspace and maintaining control accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If a second control module is always accessible, then control availability is improved, but risk of accidental commands increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol availabilityVSAvoidaccidental commands
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically manages control module availability based on desk position. When the desk is in the upright position, the first control module is enabled and the second is disabled. When the desk is folded down, the first control module becomes inaccessible and the second control module is enabled. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by providing control availability only when appropriate, preventing accidental commands while ensuring control access when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9579544B2Exercise machine with multiple control modules
Publication Date: 2017.02.28 IFIT INC
  • US9579544B2 patent drawing
  • US9579544B2 patent drawing
  • US9579544B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exercise machine includes a desk connected to a frame of the exercise machine. The desk has a first control module on a first side of the desk. The exercise machine also has a second control module located off of a first side of the desk.