Pedal Assembly with Adjustable Linkages for Exercise Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional stationary exercise machines lack sufficient upper body exercise engagement and minimal adjustability, primarily offering resistance adjustments only for the leg portions, limiting the effectiveness of the workout experience.
Innovation Solution
The development of a stationary exercise machine with reciprocating foot and hand members that simulate climbing motions through adjustable linkages and resistance mechanisms, allowing for variable-intensity interval training by incorporating air-resistance, magnetism-based, and friction-based resistance systems, and adjustable lower linkages to vary stride length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional stationary exercise machines use fixed connections between handles and leg portions, then the structure is simple, but the upper body exercise engagement is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the connection between handles and leg portions adjustable rather than fixed. The linkage system allows users to modify the mechanical connection to engage different muscle groups and exercise patterns, transforming a static structure into a dynamic, adaptable system that can provide both upper and lower body workout options.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing stationary exercise machines provide only resistance adjustment, then the device complexity is low, but the adjustability and customization options are minimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the adjustment functionality into multiple independent systems: resistance adjustment, stride length adjustment, and workout mode selection. Each adjustment mechanism operates independently, allowing users to customize their exercise experience without requiring complex integrated controls, thereby increasing adaptability while managing device complexity through functional segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multiple dynamic adjustment capabilities including variable resistance levels, adjustable stride lengths, and selectable workout modes. These dynamic features allow the exercise machine to adapt to different user needs and fitness levels, transforming a static device into a highly customizable training system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If stationary exercise machines use fixed stride length, then the manufacturing precision requirements are lower, but the adaptability to different user preferences is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing an adjustable linkage system that allows stride length to be modified during or between exercise sessions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the machine to accommodate different user preferences and fitness levels while maintaining reliable mechanical connections through robust linkage design.
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
Enhances the workout experience by engaging both upper and lower body muscles effectively, providing adjustable resistance and stride options to mimic climbing motions, thus offering a more comprehensive and customizable exercise regimen.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating air-resistance, magnetism-based, and friction-based resistance systems
Implementation Method 2
incorporating air-resistance, magnetism-based, and friction-based resistance systems
Implementation Method 3
incorporating air-resistance, magnetism-based, and friction-based resistance systems
Data Source
AI summary
A stationary exercise machine according to the present disclosure may include a frame, a crankshaft rotatably supported by the frame, first and second lower linkages, and first and second crank arms connected to opposite sides of the crankshaft such that rotation of either of the crank arms causes rotation of the crankshaft. The lower linkages may be operatively connected to the crankshaft and to a respective one of first and second pedals. Each of the lower linkages may include a reciprocating member operatively connecting one of the pedals with one of the crank arms. Each of the lower linkages may include an adjustable linkage connected between the reciprocating member and the respective crank arm, the adjustable linkage may vary a distance between an output end of the reciprocating member and an input end of the crank arm. Each of the pedals may be pivotally connected to the respective reciprocating members.