Bidirectional Rotational Resistance Device Using Magnetic Field Substitution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing resistance exercise devices typically provide resistance only in one direction, leading to inefficient workouts when resetting or changing direction, and often require replacement parts to maintain resistance.

Innovation Solution

A bidirectional rotational resistance system that utilizes one or more discs coupled to a lever, with a spindle clutch, rod connections, and a planetary gear multiplier system to provide consistent resistance in both rotational directions without the need for replacement parts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If compression pads are used to provide resistance in both directions, then bidirectional resistance is achieved, but wear and tear occurs on moveable pieces requiring replacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebidirectional resistanceVSAvoidwear and tear
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical friction-based compression pad system with a magnetic field-based resistance system. Magnets mounted on the lever interact with a stationary magnet array to generate resistance in both directions without physical contact, eliminating wear and tear on moveable pieces while maintaining bidirectional resistance capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Force

If friction-based resistance is used, then resistance is provided in both directions, but moveable pieces lose resistance over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance forceVSAvoidresistance duration
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes mechanical friction with magnetic field interaction. The magnetic resistance force is generated through the interaction between magnets on the lever and a stationary magnet array, providing consistent resistance over time without degradation since magnetic field strength does not diminish with use like friction-based systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If no friction system is used, then no wear occurs, but a period of no-resistance occurs when changing direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveno wearVSAvoidworkout efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses magnetic field interaction instead of friction, allowing continuous resistance during direction changes. The magnetic force acts on the magnets mounted on the lever throughout the entire range of motion, including during direction transitions, eliminating the no-resistance period while maintaining no-wear benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 ensures continuous resistance in both directions of exercise motion, enhancing workout efficiency and eliminating the need for part replacement, thereby reducing maintenance and operational costs.

Implementation Method 1

operatively associating a fixed gear and a disc gear between the rod and the disc, wherein the fixed gear and the disc gear comprise a planetary gear multiplier system

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlanetary gear mechanism: Epicyclic Gearing

Implementation Method 2

a first torque imparted in a first rotational direction on the lever determines a rate of change of each disc's angular momentum in the first rotational direction in such a way as to oppose a second torque

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAngular momentum: Angular Momentum

Implementation Method 3

a first torque imparted in a first rotational direction on the lever determines a rate of change of each disc's angular momentum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMoment of inertia: Moment of Inertia

Implementation Method 4

operatively associating a spindle clutch; radially connecting a rod to the spindle for each disc; and rotatably connecting each disc to a respective rod by way of a disc clutch

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12318651B2Resistance exercise device
Publication Date: 2025.06.03 BURKHARDT MATTHEW
  • US12318651B2 patent drawing
  • US12318651B2 patent drawing
  • US12318651B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A bidirectional rotational resistance assembly is provided. The assembly includes a lever coupled to the one or more discs so that a first torque imparted in a first rotational direction on the lever determines a rate of change of each disc's angular momentum in the first rotational direction in such a way as to oppose a second torque imparted in a second rotational direction on the lever, wherein the first and second rotational directions are opposites.