Exercise Machine Remote Diagnostic System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional exercise machine testing methods are inefficient due to non-specific error codes and require significant labor to maintain multiple machines, making it difficult to quickly identify and address malfunctions in gym settings.

Innovation Solution

A testing system that includes an exercise machine with a control unit and driving units, where the control unit generates specific error codes for malfunctioning units, and a remote control signal source sends testing commands to diagnose and test the malfunctioning parts, improving testing efficiency by actively sending commands and receiving results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional error codes are used to indicate malfunctions, then the exercise machine can display approximate parts that went wrong, but the error code is not specific enough and it takes awhile to narrow down where the problem is

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror code specificityVSAvoidtime to identify problem
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the error identification process by dividing it into multiple stages: initial error code display for approximate location, followed by remote transmission of the error code to a control signal source, and subsequent sending of specific testing commands to precisely identify the malfunctioning part. This segmentation transforms a single vague error code into a systematic diagnostic process that progressively narrows down the problem location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by transmitting the error code from the exercise machine to the control signal source, which then sends back specific testing commands based on the received error code. The control unit receives these commands, executes them, and sends the testing results back to the control signal source, creating a closed-loop feedback system that continuously refines the diagnosis until the exact malfunctioning part is identified.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If manual testing methods are used for multiple exercise machines in a gym, then maintenance can be performed, but it requires pretty large labor cost to maintain all of them

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting efficiencyVSAvoidlabor cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise machine performs self-diagnosis by automatically generating and transmitting its own error code to the control signal source when a malfunction occurs. The system then sends specific testing commands to the control unit, which executes the tests and returns results automatically. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual testing of each machine, significantly reducing labor costs while maintaining high testing efficiency across multiple machines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control signal source acts as an intermediary between the exercise machine and the maintenance personnel. It receives error codes from the machine, processes them by sending appropriate testing commands, and receives testing results. This intermediary system automates the diagnostic process, allowing one operator to monitor and diagnose multiple machines simultaneously rather than requiring manual testing of each individual machine.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Extent of automation

If conventional testing methods are used, then basic error identification can be achieved, but the testing process is not efficient and requires significant human intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting automationVSAvoiddiagnosis accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by having the control unit pre-programmed with multiple testing commands corresponding to different error codes. When an error code is received, the control signal source immediately sends the appropriate pre-prepared testing command without requiring manual selection or intervention. This preliminary preparation of testing commands enables automatic and reliable diagnosis while maintaining high testing automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9671316B2Testing system of exercise machine and method of remotely testing exercise machine
Publication Date: 2017.06.06 GEE HOO FITEC
  • US9671316B2 patent drawing
  • US9671316B2 patent drawing
  • US9671316B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A testing system of exercise machine includes a control signal source and an exercise machine. The control signal source includes a remote control device saved with a plurality of testing commands. The exercise machine includes a control unit and a plurality of driving units. The control unit includes a first controller received in a control panel of the exercise machine, and the first controller generates an error code corresponding to one of the driving unit when the exercise machine malfunctions. The testing commands respectively correspond to different error codes. The remote control device sends an acquiring command to the first controller to obtain the generated error code, and sends the testing command which corresponds to the error code to the first controller to test the corresponding driving unit, and a testing result is sent back to the control signal source. Whereby, the efficiency of testing could be improved.