Progressive Resistance Mechanism for Bicycle Roller Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bicycle rollers provide a linear relationship between speed and resistance, which is unsatisfactory for mimicking realistic cycling conditions, as they do not offer the progressive resistance needed for both quick acceleration and cardiovascular exercise benefits.
Innovation Solution
A conductive cylinder with magnets and a torsional spring system that alters the magnet's proximity to the cylinder wall as it spins, creating a progressive resistance relationship between speed and power output, allowing for either progressive or linear resistance by reversing the cylinder's direction of rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a linear resistance relationship is used in bicycle rollers, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot provide progressive resistance needed for both quick acceleration and cardiovascular exercise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the resistance mechanism adjustable and variable. The progressive resistance device allows the resistance to change dynamically based on骑行 conditions, transitioning from static linear resistance to dynamic progressive resistance that adapts to different training phases (acceleration vs. cardiovascular exercise).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the resistance characteristic from linear to progressive through the use of an adjustable resistance mechanism. This allows the resistance parameter to vary according to training needs, enabling both low resistance for acceleration and high resistance for cardiovascular training within the same device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external resistance devices are added to bicycle rollers, then progressive resistance can be achieved, but the device complexity and structural integration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by integrating the progressive resistance device directly into the roller structure. Instead of using separate external resistance devices, the resistance mechanism is combined with the roller itself, creating a unified integrated system that reduces overall device complexity while maintaining progressive resistance functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a multi-functional resistance system that can provide both linear and progressive resistance modes within a single integrated device. The system serves multiple training purposes (acceleration training and cardiovascular exercise) through one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate external resistance devices.
3Reliability
If high resistance is applied at low speed, then cardiovascular exercise benefit is achieved, but the bicycle cannot accelerate quickly enough for stable steering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing resistance that varies with speed in a controlled manner. The progressive resistance device creates a resistance profile that is low at low speeds (enabling acceleration and steering stability) and high at high speeds (enabling cardiovascular exercise), mimicking the periodic nature of actual cycling resistance from the combined effects of rolling resistance and wind resistance.
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 provides a non-linear resistance profile that mimics outdoor cycling conditions, allowing users to select between high and low resistance levels based on speed, enhancing training effectiveness and user preference.
Implementation Method 1
Eddy currents produced in the conductive cylinder as the cylinder spins alter the magnet's proximity to the wall by forcing the magnet carrier to move in an eccentric orientation as relates to the axis of rotation of the cylinder.
Implementation Method 2
A torsional spring opposes the force created by the eddy current and causes the system to achieve a state of equilibrium force balance.
Data Source
AI summary
A progressive resistance device is provided having a cylinder having an outer wall which defines an inner chamber. The cylinder is carried on an axle and is rotatable thereabout. An eccentric axle surrounds the axle and is rotatable relative the axle. A magnet carrier partially encircles the eccentric axle and carries a magnet. A bearing is nested between the magnet carrier and the eccentric axle. The magnet carrier is rotatable about the eccentric axle on an axis which is eccentric to the axle's axis, whereby the distance between the magnet and the outer wall is variable as defined by the rotative position of said housing relative said outer wall, which rotative position is governed by the speed of rotation of the cylinder. The progressive resistance device described herein is adapted for use as a roller on a bicycle trainer.