Computer-Controlled Force Generator for Non-Linear Exercise Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise equipment struggles to accurately mimic the forces experienced during real-life sports, providing a poor user experience due to inadequate simulation of non-linear forces. Additionally, existing systems are complex and expensive, making it difficult to optimize for different types of sports, athletes, and equipment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that use a computer-controlled force generator to simulate non-linear forces by determining angular positions and applying geometrical scaling values to a kinematic model, allowing for the adjustment of resistive forces based on athlete parameters and training situations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical non-circular gearing is used to simulate non-linear forces, then the user experience and training effectiveness are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical non-circular gearing system with a computer-controlled force generator that uses electronic control and software algorithms to simulate the same non-linear force characteristics. The force generator applies variable resistive forces through electromagnetic or magnetic fields, controlled by a computer that calculates the required force based on angular position and training parameters, eliminating complex mechanical components while achieving the same training效果
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed mechanical geometry to dynamic parameter control. Instead of using a fixed non-circular gear shape, the system uses a computer-controlled force generator that dynamically adjusts the resistive force parameters (magnitude, direction, timing) based on real-time angular position sensing and pre-programmed training profiles, allowing flexible simulation of different force curves without physical reconfiguration
2Manufacturing precision
If a fixed non-circular gearing is used to simulate varying forces, then the force curve is optimized for one particular sport situation, but the adaptability to different types of sports, athletes, and equipment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the resistive force parameters are continuously adjusted during exercise based on real-time angular position feedback and pre-programmed training profiles. The computer-controlled force generator can dynamically change the force curve characteristics to match different sports disciplines, athlete skill levels, and equipment configurations, replacing the static optimization of fixed mechanical gearing with adaptive software control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal training system where a single computer-controlled force generator can simulate multiple different force curves and training scenarios through software programming. The system can be configured to match various sports (cycling, rowing, climbing), different athlete capabilities, and multiple equipment types, eliminating the need for different mechanical gearing configurations for each application
3Reliability
If mechanical parts are changed to adjust resistive force, then the force generation is optimized, but the adjustment process becomes slow and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic control. Instead of physically changing gear ratios or mechanical components to adjust resistive force, the system uses a computer-controlled force generator that electronically adjusts the electromagnetic or magnetic field strength to vary the resistive force instantly, eliminating the time-consuming mechanical adjustment process while maintaining precise force control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-adjusting system where the computer-controlled force generator automatically modifies the resistive force parameters in real-time based on angular position sensing and pre-programmed training profiles. The system self-regulates the force application without requiring manual intervention or mechanical reconfiguration, adapting instantly to different training phases and athlete performance levels
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively mimics the forces of real-life sports devices, providing an improved user experience and training effectiveness by accurately simulating non-linear forces, which can be efficiently adjusted for individual athletes and scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
electro-magnetic coupling (e.g. based on eddy currents and/or an electrical motor)
Implementation Method 2
friction (wind, rubbing, water)
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for controlling a force generator of an exercise apparatus are described wherein the method comprises determining or receiving angular positions of a rotatable axle of an exercise apparatus when a force is applied to a force receiving structure of the exercise apparatus, the rotatable axle being part of a mechanical power transmission system connecting the force receiving structure via the rotatable axis to a force generator which is controlled by a computer based on a kinematic model, the kinetic model representing equations of motion of the exercise the apparatus; determining or retrieving first geometrical scaling values associated with the angular positions and incorporating the first geometrical scaling values into the kinematic model to form a first modified kinematic model, the first geometrical scaling values being associated with a non-circular gear of a first predetermined non-circular geometry; and, determining applied force values for the angular positions, each applied force value representing a force that is applied to the force receiving structure; and, controlling the force generator based on first resistive force values to mimic an exercise apparatus comprising a mechanical power transmission system including the first non-circular gear, the first resistive force values being computed using the first modified kinematic model and the applied force values.