Recumbent Exercise Device with Adjustable Cranks and Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a multi-user, easy-to-use therapeutic and exercise device that can simultaneously serve both therapeutic and exercise purposes, accommodating various body types and allowing for adjustable positioning to accommodate different injuries and fitness levels.
Innovation Solution
A recumbent therapeutic and exercise device with a hand crank system and a foot crank system, both adjustable in their planes of motion, coupled with a generator to convert rotational energy into electrical energy, allowing for independent or synchronized operation and accommodating users of different builds through adjustable positioning of the chair and crank systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-position exercise device is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate users of different builds and fitness levels
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration. The hand crank system can be positioned at multiple heights along vertical guides, the foot crank system can be moved along horizontal rails, and the seat can be repositioned on the frame. This dynamic adjustability enables the device to adapt to users of different builds and fitness levels without requiring multiple fixed-position devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to serve multiple functions and user types through its adjustable mechanisms. The same device can accommodate therapeutic users requiring limited range of motion, cardiovascular users needing high-intensity exercise, and users of various body sizes. The universal design is achieved through the combination of adjustable hand cranks, foot cranks, and seat positioning systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate therapeutic and exercise devices are used, then each device can be optimized for its specific purpose, but the overall system complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges therapeutic rehabilitation functions with cardiovascular exercise capabilities into a single integrated system. The hand crank and foot crank systems can be used independently for targeted muscle rehabilitation or simultaneously for whole-body cardiovascular exercise. This merging eliminates the need for separate therapeutic and exercise devices, reducing overall system complexity and space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device provides both therapeutic and exercise functions through its multi-functional design. The adjustable resistance mechanisms support both low-intensity therapeutic exercises and high-intensity cardiovascular workouts. The same crank systems and resistance mechanisms serve dual purposes, allowing the device to function as both a rehabilitation tool and a fitness machine.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the hand crank and foot crank are fixed in position, then the device structure is simpler, but it cannot accommodate users with different body proportions and injury conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The hand crank system is mounted on vertical guides allowing it to be positioned at multiple heights, while the foot crank system is mounted on horizontal rails allowing lateral adjustment. These dynamic positioning capabilities enable users to adjust the cranks to their specific body proportions and injury conditions, creating an adaptive interface that accommodates diverse user needs.
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
The device provides a comprehensive workout for both upper and lower body muscles, enhances rehabilitation, and generates electrical energy, offering a versatile and efficient solution for rehabilitation and exercise needs while accommodating users of varying sizes and fitness levels.
Implementation Method 1
a generator configured to generate electrical energy from rotational energy caused from rotational movement of at least one of the hand crank and the foot crank
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments related to a recumbent therapeutic and exercise device are provided herein. The recumbent therapeutic and exercise device includes a frame; a hand crank system coupled to the frame, the hand crank system including a hand crank rotatable by a user, wherein the hand crank is movable in a substantially vertical plane closer to and further from a support surface for the frame; and a foot crank system coupled to the frame, the foot crank system including a foot crank rotatable by the user, wherein the foot crank is movable in a substantially horizontal plane relative to the support surface for the fame.