Microprocessor Pulley Resistance Control for Counterweight-Free Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bodybuilding devices rely on counterweights and predetermined resistance, limiting user control over force and speed, which restricts personalized exercise experiences and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A system that uses a microprocessor-controlled pulley system with a speed sensor and brake to maintain constant movement speed independent of applied force, allowing users to adjust force dynamically and display it on a digital panel, eliminating the need for counterweights.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional bodybuilding devices use counterweights and predetermined resistance, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but user control over force and speed is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser control over force and speedVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical counterweight system with an electromagnetic braking system controlled by a microprocessor. The brake converts mechanical energy to electrical energy through electromagnetic induction, allowing electronic control of resistance instead of mechanical counterweights. This substitution enables dynamic adjustment of force and speed parameters while maintaining system reliability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static predetermined resistance (counterweights) to dynamic adjustable resistance. The microprocessor continuously monitors speed sensor data and adjusts the brake's electromagnetic field in real-time, allowing the resistance to vary dynamically during exercise based on user performance and selected parameters, thereby improving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If a microprocessor-controlled brake system is used to maintain constant speed independent of applied force, then speed control precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed control precisionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a closed-loop feedback control mechanism where the speed sensor continuously monitors the actual speed of the moving mass, and this information is fed back to the microprocessor. The microprocessor compares the measured speed with the target speed and adjusts the brake's electromagnetic field strength accordingly, maintaining constant speed despite variations in applied force. This feedback loop achieves high speed control precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic brake system automatically self-regulates to maintain constant speed without requiring manual intervention. The microprocessor-controlled brake adjusts its resistance based on real-time speed feedback, and the system self-corrects any speed deviations automatically, reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If counterweights are eliminated and speed-based control is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical counterweight system with an electromagnetic braking system. The brake uses electromagnetic fields to generate resistance, eliminating the need for physical counterweights. This substitution simplifies the mechanical structure, reduces moving parts, and improves ease of operation while maintaining reliability through electronic control and feedback mechanisms.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the fundamental parameter for resistance control from mass (counterweight weight) to electromagnetic field strength (brake resistance). This parameter change allows for continuous, fine-grained adjustment of resistance levels through electronic control, improving ease of operation. The reliability is maintained through the robust electromagnetic braking mechanism and microprocessor control that ensures consistent performance.

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

Enables users to control force and speed independently, allowing for personalized workouts and increased load capacity up to 500 kg, with minimal force required to overcome resistance, enhancing exercise flexibility and safety.

Implementation Method 1

a brake (5), which converts movement speed into electrical energy

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a spring (10), which returns the support bar (6) to the initial position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3473303B1Microprocessor-controlled system for human physical training
Publication Date: 2022.04.20 LEOPOLDO DA CAMARA FILHO CARLOS ALBERTO
  • EP3473303B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3473303B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3473303B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The present invention applies to the field of exercise devices and bodybuilding and muscle building devices. This invention describes a system applied in exercise devices, preferably for the performance of the activity of bodybuilding, without the use of a counterweight, in which the system is based on the speed of the movement, independent of the applied force.