Loop Drive Mechanism for Dynamic Exercise Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise equipment, such as reformers and machines, cannot dynamically adjust resistance levels during a movement, limiting user flexibility and efficiency, especially when multiple users or resistance changes are needed.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a motor-driven loop drive mechanism with sensors and a processor that allows for real-time adjustment of resistance by detecting external forces and controlling the motor to apply varying resistance levels, enabling continuous resistance adjustment during movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete springs are used to provide resistance in reformers, then resistance can be provided, but the resistance amounts are limited to discrete values and cannot be adjusted continuously during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing static discrete springs with a dynamic continuous resistance mechanism. A motor-driven reel winds or unwinds a cable to continuously adjust the resistance force applied to the carriage, allowing smooth transitions between resistance levels during movement rather than requiring discrete spring changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the purely mechanical spring-based resistance system with an electromechanical system. A motor controls the cable tension through a reel mechanism, replacing multiple physical springs with an electronically controlled mechanical system that provides continuous resistance adjustment capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple springs are provided to offer different resistance levels, then more resistance options are available, but the device becomes more complex and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single motor-driven cable system that can provide all resistance levels needed, replacing multiple specialized springs. The same cable and reel mechanism serve all resistance adjustment needs, making the system multi-functional rather than requiring separate components for each resistance level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the resistance-providing function from multiple discrete spring components and consolidates it into a single cable-tension-based system. By removing the need for multiple physical springs and their storage space, the invention isolates the essential resistance function into a more compact form.
3Productivity
If plates are changed in resistance machines to adjust loads, then resistance levels can be modified, but it is inefficient when multiple users are working out or when a single user wants to change load during a set
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling automatic resistance adjustment through motor control. The system can automatically wind or unwind the cable to provide the desired resistance level without requiring manual plate changes, allowing users to quickly adjust resistance during workouts or between users without interrupting the exercise flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming resistance levels and adjustment sequences. The motor system can be pre-configured to provide specific resistance levels, allowing instant transitions between workout intensities or user preferences without the time-consuming manual process of selecting and changing weight plates.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing resistance in an exercise machine. The system includes a motor, at least one loop drive attached to the motor. A carriage is coupled to the loop drive. The carriage moves in a first direction when the motor is turned in a first direction and a second direction when the motor is turned in a second direction. At least one sensor is attached to the carriage, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect external force on the carriage. Information from the sensor indicates external force on the carriage. The information is used to determine a movement of the carriage in response to the external force. The motor is instructed to turn the loop drive to apply the movement.