Foldable Leg Lift Machine With Chain-Free Lever Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional leg lift machines are expensive due to the use of sprockets, chains, and magnetically controlled resistance mechanisms, have complex constructions, and require significant assembly time, occupying large spaces and being non-folding for storage.
Innovation Solution
A foldable leg lift machine design comprising a base unit, main handle unit, drive levers, pedals, and linkage mechanism, with simplified components and a folding mechanism for easy assembly and storage, eliminating the need for sprockets and magnetic resistance mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sprockets and chains are used in the driving mechanism, then the machine can achieve smooth rotation and movement, but the production cost increases and assembly time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the sprocket and chain components from the driving mechanism, replacing them with a direct lever-based mechanical system. This extraction of complex components simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the core functionality of converting rotational motion to linear motion for the pedals.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a motor-driven system with sprockets and chains to transmit power, the patent inverts the approach by using manually-operated levers that directly convert user input into pedal movement. This inversion eliminates the need for complex power transmission components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If magnetically controlled resistance mechanism is used, then the machine provides adjustable resistance, but the fabrication and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the magnetic resistance mechanism entirely, replacing it with a purely mechanical resistance system using springs and counterweights. This extraction eliminates expensive magnetic components while maintaining the ability to provide adjustable resistance through mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as springs and counterweights instead of expensive magnetic systems. These mechanical components are easier to manufacture and replace, reducing both initial fabrication costs and long-term maintenance expenses.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the machine has a complicated construction with many parts, then the machine achieves complete functionality, but the assembly process becomes difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the machine into distinct functional modules: a base unit with support stands, a separate handling mechanism with levers, and a pedal assembly. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured and tested independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining complete functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. For example, the support stands simultaneously provide structural support and serve as pivot points for the levers. The lever mechanism integrates both the driving motion and the resistance application in a single unified system, reducing the total number of parts.
4Reliability
If the machine has a fixed structure, then the machine provides stable operation, but the machine occupies large space and cannot be folded for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic, foldable support stands that can transition between an extended operational position providing stable support and a collapsed storage position reducing volume. The hinges and pivot points maintain structural integrity during operation while enabling compact folding for storage or transportation.
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable leg lift machine includes a base unit, a main handle unit, two drive levers, two pedals, and a linkage mechanism. The base unit includes a first stand, a second stand pivotally connected with the first stand, and two third stands pivotally connected with the first stand. The main handle unit is connected with the first stand and provided with a handgrip. Each of the drive levers is pivotally connected with one of the third stands. Each of the pedals is pivotally connected with one of the drive levers. The linkage mechanism includes a swing base pivotally mounted on the third stands, and two linkage rods each pivotally connected with the swing base and pivotally connected with one of the two drive levers.