Gym Machine Brake Control for Constant-Load Training Intervals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gymnastic equipment does not allow for customized training based on the user's aptitude, and the regulation of cycling training parameters is often inefficient and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A gymnastic machine with a control logic unit that adjusts braking force based on user input and sensor feedback, allowing for a second control mode where the braking parameter is maintained at a constant value during a predefined period or until a target is reached, independent of the user's exerted force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If feedback control is used to adjust brake parameter based on user force, then training adapts to user's current effort, but training cannot be customized according to user's aptitude and preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between two operational modes: feedback control mode (first control mode) and constant brake parameter mode (second control mode). This dynamic configurability allows the system to adapt to different user preferences and training requirements without requiring a completely different system design, thereby achieving training customization while managing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (brake parameter control strategy) based on the selected mode. In feedback control mode, the brake parameter continuously adjusts based on detected user force. In constant brake parameter mode, the brake parameter is set to a fixed value calculated from first and second targets. This parameter change enables the same hardware to deliver different training experiences suited to different user aptitudes.
2Productivity
If brake parameter is continuously adjusted via feedback control, then training responds to user's instantaneous effort, but training parameters cannot be maintained constant for structured intervals
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic alternation between feedback control and constant brake parameter modes during training sessions. This allows structured training intervals where parameters remain consistent (constant brake parameter mode) followed by periods where the system responds to user effort (feedback control mode), achieving both training efficiency and parameter consistency as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically transitions between two distinct operational states: feedback control mode for adaptive response and constant brake parameter mode for stability. This dynamic switching capability enables the system to provide both responsive training (improving productivity) and consistent parameter maintenance (improving reliability) depending on the training phase and user needs.
3Reliability
If manual systems are used for adjusting cadence and resistance, then device complexity is reduced, but regulation is inefficient and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
In feedback control mode, the system automatically detects user force and adjusts the brake parameter without manual intervention. The detection system continuously monitors user effort and the control unit autonomously regulates the brake, making the system self-adjusting and eliminating the need for manual regulation, thereby improving reliability while managing complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the control strategy from manual adjustment to automated feedback control or constant parameter mode. This parameter change in the control approach enables reliable and efficient regulation of training parameters, as the system can maintain consistent brake parameters or dynamically adjust them based on detected user force, eliminating the inefficiencies of manual systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns an gymnastic machine comprising a frame (1); a system (2) for applying a force exerted by a user; a brake system (3); a transmission unit (4) of the force exerted by the user to the brake system (3); at least one detection system (6) of the force exerted by a user; at least one control logic unit (U) suitable for determining a brake parameter (P) corresponding to the braking action exerted by the brake system (3) and for regulating the brake parameter (P) with a feedback control in operation of at least one signal of the detection system (6) in a first control mode (MI); the control logic unit (U) being configured to activate a second control mode (MFF), to switch from a first target (Target_1) to a second target (Target_2), wherein the control logic unit (U) is configured to calculate a value of the brake parameter (P) as a function of at least said first target (Target_1) and second target (Target_2); maintain the brake parameter (P) at a constant value (P_const) equal to the calculated value, during the operation of the exercise machine, for a predefined period of time (T) or until the second target (Target_2) is reached.