Exercise Machine Force Transducer Single-Point Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional resistance exercise equipment relies on gravity and may have inefficiencies and risks, while alternative systems like pneumatics and motors do not effectively meet the specific needs of users for static, concentric, and eccentric muscular contractions.
Innovation Solution
An exercise machine with a motor assembly, mounting plate, and force transducer, where the force transducer is the only point of contact between the frame and the motor assembly, allowing for precise measurement and control of force applied to the motor assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional gravity-based resistance equipment is used, then the structure is simple, but the effectiveness for meeting specific user needs for static, concentric, and eccentric muscular contractions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a motor assembly that can dynamically adjust resistance forces in real-time based on user performance and programmed protocols. The motor assembly transitions between different operational modes (static hold, concentric movement, eccentric control) to meet specific muscular contraction needs, transforming the static gravity-based system into a dynamic, adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying motor output parameters (force, speed, position) to provide different types of muscular contractions. The system changes resistance parameters dynamically during exercise protocols to accommodate static, concentric, and eccentric phases, allowing one device to perform multiple contraction types that traditionally required different equipment.
2Measurement precision
If a force transducer is added to measure force applied to the motor assembly, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force transducer acts as an intermediary element between the motor assembly and the frame. It provides the necessary force measurement capability while isolating the motor assembly from direct structural attachments to the frame. This intermediary approach enables precise force measurement without requiring complex integration of multiple sensors or structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function into a separate, dedicated force transducer component rather than integrating measurement capabilities into the motor assembly itself. This extraction allows the motor assembly to focus on force generation while the force transducer handles measurement, simplifying the overall system architecture despite adding a measurement component.
3Measurement precision
If the force transducer is the only point of contact between the frame and the motor assembly, then measurement accuracy is improved, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The force transducer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support as a mounting point for the motor assembly, enables force measurement for feedback control, and acts as a load path element for transmitting forces between the frame and motor assembly. This multi-functionality allows a single-point attachment to achieve both measurement accuracy and structural stability.
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 provides adaptive resistance that is dynamically responsive to the user's needs, allowing for precise exercise prescriptions and biometric data tracking, enhancing safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of workouts.
Implementation Method 1
a force transducer attached to the mounting plate and the frame and configured to measure force applied to the motor assembly
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices for measuring force applied to a machine, where an exercise machine comprises a frame; a motor assembly; a mounting plate, wherein the mounting plate is attached to the motor assembly; a force transducer. The force transducer is attached to the mounting plate and the frame and is the only point of contact between the frame and the motor assembly. The force transducer is configured to measure force applied to the motor assembly.