Non-linear Resistance Exercise Apparatus with Adjustable Arc Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise machines for simulating walking or running lack adjustable resistance mechanisms that vary non-linearly with user input, limiting the ability to customize exercise intensity and path variability, and often fail to provide real-time feedback on performance metrics.
Innovation Solution
An exercise apparatus with a foot support suspended by a suspension assembly, interconnected to a non-linearly force-dependent resistance mechanism that adjusts resistance exponentially or geometrically with user input, and includes detectors and a processor to provide real-time feedback on force, energy, power, distance, and velocity, allowing users to select different arc segments and adjust resistance manually.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a linear resistance mechanism is used in elliptical machines, then the resistance varies simply with force or speed, but the ability to customize exercise intensity and provide non-linear resistance progression is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by implementing a non-linear resistance mechanism where resistance varies exponentially or geometrically with user input rather than linearly. This allows customizable exercise intensity through adjustable resistance curves while maintaining a manageable device complexity through systematic design of the resistance progression algorithm.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the foot pedal path is fixed in elliptical machines, then the mechanical structure is simpler, but the ability to adjust exercise paths and provide path variability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the foot pedal path adjustable rather than fixed. The mechanical structure allows modification of the elliptical path parameters, enabling users to select different exercise paths while maintaining structural integrity through a designed adjustment mechanism that balances path variability with mechanical simplicity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If real-time performance detection and feedback systems are added to exercise machines, then user engagement and workout effectiveness are enhanced, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a system with detectors that measure performance metrics and a processor that provides real-time feedback to users. This enhances user engagement and workout effectiveness through data-driven insights while managing system complexity through integrated detection and processing components that work together as a cohesive feedback loop.
4Measurement precision
If multiple detectors and processing components are integrated to provide comprehensive performance data, then measurement precision and user insights are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing detectors and processing components that serve multiple functions. The detection system measures various performance metrics (force, power, speed) using integrated sensors that can capture multiple parameters simultaneously, while the processor handles various calculations and feedback tasks, reducing overall system complexity through multi-functional design.
Data Source
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AI summary
An exercise apparatus comprising: a foot support, a user interface that includes a visual display, the foot support being movable by the user on the frame back and forth through any one of a plurality of complete, reproducible and different arc segments of a master arcuate path, the foot support being interconnected to a selection device that enables the user to select any one of the plurality of arc segments, one or more detectors adapted to detect one or more of force, energy or power exerted by the user over time on the foot support or distance or velocity of travel of the foot support or resistance assembly during the course of the user's performance of all or a portion of an exercise cycle, the visual display displaying a visually recognizable format of one or more of the force, energy, power, distance, time or velocity.