Magnetic Resistance Structure for Exercise Machines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electromagnetic resistance structures in exercise machines suffer from energy losses due to the resistance of the materials used in the exciting coils for generating magnetic force.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic resistance structure that utilizes a control unit to adjust the relative positions of magnetic field components, including permanent magnets and magnetic induction components, to selectively generate and vary the magnetic field resistance on a turning disc unit, eliminating the need for current-generated magnetic forces and associated losses.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If electric current is used to generate magnetic force through exciting coils, then magnetic resistance can be generated for the flywheel, but energy losses occur due to the resistance of the coil materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic forceVSAvoidenergy loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the electromagnetic system (exciting coils generating magnetic force through electric current) with a permanent magnet system. The permanent magnets on the movable seat and seat body directly generate the magnetic field without requiring electric current, thereby eliminating the energy losses associated with coil resistance while maintaining the magnetic resistance function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The permanent magnets inherently generate the magnetic field without external energy input. The magnetic resistance is generated automatically through the interaction between the permanent magnets and the magnetic resistance brake ring, eliminating the need for continuous electrical energy supply and reducing energy losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Loss of energy

If permanent magnets are used to generate magnetic field, then energy efficiency is improved, but the ability to dynamically adjust magnetic field strength becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy lossVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a movable seat that can dynamically adjust its position relative to the turning disc unit, thereby changing the distance and relative positioning between the permanent magnets. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows for variable magnetic field strength and adjustable resistance levels while still using energy-efficient permanent magnets, balancing energy efficiency with controllability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic field strength and resistance are adjusted by changing the positional parameters of the permanent magnets through the movable seat mechanism. By varying the distance and alignment between the permanent magnets on the movable seat and those on the seat body, the magnetic field intensity can be controlled without requiring complex electromagnetic systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution allows for adjustable resistance without energy losses, enhancing the efficiency of the magnetic field generation and providing a more effective resistance mechanism for exercise machines.

Implementation Method 1

The first component and the second component selectively generate a magnetic field by changing their relative positions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

the magnetic field generates a resistance to the non-magnetic induction part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic resistance: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 3

the magnetic field generates a resistance to the non-magnetic induction part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11364404B2Magnetic resistance structure and exercise machine having the same
Publication Date: 2022.06.21 GREAT FITNESS IND CO LTD
  • US11364404B2 patent drawing
  • US11364404B2 patent drawing
  • US11364404B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetic resistance structure and an exercise machine having the same are disclosed. The magnetic resistance structure includes a seat body, a turning disc unit, a movable seat, a control unit, and a magnetic field component. The turning disc unit is pivotally connected to the seat body in an axial direction. The turning disc unit has a non-magnetic induction part extending in a radial direction. The control unit is connected with the movable seat for controlling the movable seat to approach or move away from the non-magnetic induction part. The magnetic field component includes a first component and a second component. The first component is located on the seat body. The second component is located on the movable seat. The first component and the second component selectively generate a magnetic field by changing their relative positions.