Recumbent Stepper Locking Device with Dynamic Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for exercise machines, such as pin locking systems, are limited in the number of lockable positions and can damage the equipment when excessive force is applied, as they do not allow movement even when significant force is applied to the movable assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a contact portion that can move between two positions, allowing or preventing mechanical communication with the resistance mechanism, enabling movement or locking of movable assemblies, and featuring a spring-biased contact portion that can be adjusted for infinite lockable positions and safety against excessive force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pin locking system is used to lock the movable assembly, then the assembly is securely locked in place, but the number of lockable positions is limited and the system can be damaged when excessive force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be movable between locked and unlocked positions, allowing the system to dynamically transition between states. The contact portion can engage with the resistance mechanism at multiple positions along its path of travel, providing infinite lockable positions while maintaining secure locking through the same fundamental locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is segmented into a separate locking member that can independently engage at different positions along the resistance mechanism's path. This segmentation allows the locking function to be decoupled from fixed holes, enabling the locking member to contact the resistance mechanism at any position within its travel range.
2Reliability
If a pin locking system is used to lock the movable assembly, then the assembly is securely locked in place, but the system can be damaged when excessive force is applied to the movable assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member can dynamically disengage from the resistance mechanism when excessive force is applied, preventing damage to the system. The movable design allows the locking member to move out of engagement rather than transmitting excessive force to fixed components, thereby protecting the system from damage while maintaining locking reliability under normal conditions.
3Reliability
If the locking member contacts the resistance mechanism to prevent movement, then the movable assembly is locked, but the system does not allow movement when significant force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically respond to applied forces. When significant force is applied, the locking member can move and disengage from the resistance mechanism, allowing movement to occur and preventing damage. This dynamic behavior maintains locking reliability under normal conditions while providing movement flexibility when needed.
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 locking device provides safe and flexible locking with infinite lockable positions, allowing movement even under significant force, preventing damage and ensuring user safety by automatically locking in case of malfunction.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a spring-biased contact portion that can be adjusted for infinite lockable positions and safety against excessive force
Data Source
AI summary
A locking device for an exercise system may include a locking member having a contact portion and configured to move between a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the contact portion of the locking member is not in mechanical communication with the resistance mechanism of the exercise system, thereby allowing movement of the at least one moveable assembly. When in the second position, the contact portion of the locking member is in mechanical communication with the resistance mechanism of the exercise system, thereby preventing movement of the at least one moveable assembly.