Loop Drive Mechanism for Dynamic Resistance Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise equipment, such as reformers, cannot dynamically adjust resistance levels during a movement, limiting the range of resistance options and requiring users to stop and change springs to modify the load, which restricts the variety of resistance training possibilities.
Innovation Solution
A system incorporating a motor-driven loop drive mechanism with sensors and a processor that allows for continuous adjustment of resistance by detecting external forces and controlling the motor to apply varying movements, enabling dynamic resistance changes during exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If discrete springs are used to provide resistance, then the device structure is simple, but the resistance adjustment is limited to fixed values and cannot be changed during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static spring-based resistance system into a dynamic motor-driven system. The motor can continuously adjust the resistance level during movement by controlling the loop drive mechanism, enabling real-time adaptation of resistance values without physical spring changes. This resolves the contradiction by making the resistance system dynamic rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical spring system with an electromechanical system consisting of a motor, loop drive, and sensor feedback mechanism. This substitution allows for continuous resistance adjustment through electronic control while maintaining the mechanical resistance function, thereby expanding adaptability without proportionally increasing mechanical complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple springs are provided for different resistance levels, then the resistance options increase, but the device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal resistance mechanism where a single motor-driven loop drive system can provide multiple resistance levels through continuous adjustment. Instead of requiring multiple discrete springs for different resistance options, one multi-functional system replaces many single-function springs, reducing device volume while maintaining or expanding resistance options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the resistance parameter continuously through motor control rather than through discrete spring selections. By varying the motor's rotational speed and direction, the system can achieve any resistance value within its range, eliminating the need for multiple physical components and reducing overall device size.
3Ease of operation
If springs are used for resistance, then the device is simple to manufacture, but the user must stop movement to change resistance levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous resistance adjustment capability during exercise movement. The motor-driven system can modify resistance levels without interrupting the user's motion, maintaining the continuity of the exercise action. This eliminates the time loss associated with stopping to change springs while preserving ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that automatically detect user needs and the processor autonomously adjusts resistance levels without requiring user intervention to stop and change components. The system serves itself by monitoring and self-adjusting, thereby maintaining operational continuity and eliminating time loss while keeping the interface simple for the user.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a motor-driven loop drive system is implemented, then continuous resistance adjustment is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors detect user force or position and the processor automatically adjusts motor output to achieve desired resistance levels. This feedback mechanism simplifies the control interface by making the system self-regulating, reducing the perceived complexity for the user while maintaining high adaptability through automated resistance customization.
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
Enables continuous and customizable resistance levels during exercise, allowing for a broader range of training options and improved flexibility in resistance training programs without the need to stop and change springs.
Implementation Method 1
a motor, at least one loop drive attached to the motor. The motor has an axis of rotation and is configured such that the motor can turn the loop drive in a first direction and a second direction around the axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
At least one sensor is attached to the carriage, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect external force on the carriage
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.