Motor Torque Spotting in Digital Strength Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional strength training methods struggle to efficiently and safely implement asymmetric protocols, such as eccentric loading, due to the inability of physical weights to dynamically change weight distribution, and fail to account for individual muscle-tension curves that vary throughout a workout.
Innovation Solution
A digital strength trainer using a motor controlled by a filter and sensors to dynamically adjust torque, allowing for arbitrary tension curves and phase changes, mimicking the behavior of a weight stack while accounting for user position and muscle-tension variability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional physical weights are used for strength training, then the equipment is simple and reliable, but the system cannot dynamically adjust weight distribution or implement asymmetric protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical weight stacks with an electronically controlled motor system. The motor is controlled by a digital filter that dynamically adjusts torque output based on real-time sensor feedback, enabling asymmetric loading protocols without requiring complex mechanical weight distribution mechanisms. This substitution of mechanical systems with electronic control achieves the desired adaptability while managing system complexity through software-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic weight adjustment by continuously modifying the motor's torque output during exercise execution. The digital filter processes sensor data in real-time and dynamically changes the resistance profile to match individual muscle-tension curves, allowing the system to adapt to varying physiological conditions throughout the workout rather than maintaining fixed weight settings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed weight stacks are used, then the device complexity is low, but the system cannot account for individual muscle-tension curves that vary throughout a workout
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback loops where sensors monitor user position, force application, and movement velocity. This data is fed into a digital filter that continuously adjusts motor torque to match the user's instantaneous muscle-tension capacity. The feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to individual muscle-tension curves by detecting physiological state changes and modifying resistance accordingly, rather than relying on pre-programmed fixed protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes multiple operational parameters including torque magnitude, resistance profile, and movement velocity based on real-time physiological feedback. The digital filter modifies these parameters continuously to optimize the training stimulus according to the user's instantaneous muscle-tension capacity, enabling adaptation to varying physiological conditions throughout the workout session.
3Productivity
If dynamic torque adjustment is implemented, then training effectiveness is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical weight adjustment mechanisms with an electronically controlled motor system managed by a digital filter. The motor controller dynamically adjusts torque output based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual weight changes or complex mechanical transmission systems. This electronic substitution achieves superior training efficiency while managing control complexity through software-based torque regulation rather than mechanical complexity.
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 efficient, safe, and effective strength training by allowing for continuous adjustment of tension and resistance, effectively implementing asymmetric protocols and accommodating individual muscle-tension variations, enhancing muscle building and tendon strength.
Implementation Method 1
A digital strength trainer using a motor controlled by a filter and sensors to dynamically adjust torque
Data Source
AI summary
A first determination that a range of motion of a user of an exercise machine is between pre-determined motion thresholds is made. While the range of motion of the user is between the pre-determined motion thresholds, a velocity of the cable being below a pre-determined velocity threshold is determined. In response to determining that the velocity of the cable being below the pre-determined velocity threshold while the range of motion of the user is between the pre-determined motion thresholds, a second determination that the user should be spotted is made, Torque of a motor is reduced based at least in part on the second determination that the user should be spotted.