Detachable Rowing Power Meter for Precise Tension Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rowing machines lack a cost-effective power meter to accurately detect the tension applied by users at the tension assembly, and existing power handles are expensive and limited in applicability.
Innovation Solution
A detachable power meter with a simple structure comprising a housing, fixation assembly, and tension detection device, which can be connected to the tension assembly at any point, allowing for broad compatibility with various rowing machines, and includes a fixation assembly with mechanical coupling members and a tension detection device for precise force measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a power handle is used to detect tension, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power meter is divided into independent modular components: a detection component (tension detection device) and a mounting component (fixation assembly). The fixation assembly includes separate elements such as fixation plates, pressing members, and locking members that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the detection function to be isolated from the rowing machine's main structure, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation assembly serves as an intermediary component that bridges the tension assembly and the tension detection device. Instead of directly integrating the detection device into the rowing machine structure, the fixation assembly mediates the connection, providing a standardized interface that simplifies both the detection system and the host machine while ensuring accurate force transmission for measurement.
2Measurement precision
If a power handle is used to detect tension, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power meter into the tension detection device and fixation assembly, each component can be manufactured using optimized processes for its specific function. The fixation assembly uses simple structural elements (plates, members, locks) that can be produced through standard manufacturing techniques, reducing overall production cost compared to an integrated power handle design.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation assembly is designed with universal applicability to accommodate different types of rowing machines. The standardized interface and modular design allow the same fixation assembly structure to be used across various models, achieving economies of scale in manufacturing and reducing per-unit costs while maintaining precise tension detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If a power handle is used to detect tension, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation assembly is designed with universal adaptability to fit different rowing machine types. The modular structure with standardized connection interfaces allows the same power meter design to be applied to various rowing machine configurations, achieving broad compatibility while maintaining accurate tension detection through the standardized measurement interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation assembly incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through its locking and pressing mechanisms, allowing it to adapt to different tension assembly configurations. The pressing members can be adjusted to accommodate varying positions and orientations of the tension assembly, enabling the power meter to maintain precise measurement across diverse rowing machine types.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the fixation assembly is detachably connected to the tension assembly, then adaptability is improved, but reliability may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation assembly incorporates preliminary locking actions through its locking members that engage with the tension assembly before full operation begins. This preliminary engagement ensures proper alignment and secure connection prior to use, maintaining reliability while allowing detachable installation for adaptability across different rowing machine models.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing members are designed with curved or arc-shaped contact surfaces that conform to the geometry of the tension assembly. This curved design distributes connection forces more evenly across the interface, enhancing connection stability and reliability while maintaining the detachable nature of the fixation assembly for broad compatibility.
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 power meter provides accurate detection of pulling force with high precision and low manufacturing cost, suitable for diverse rowing machines, enhancing user experience through real-time feedback.
Implementation Method 1
The tension detection device is configured to detect a pulling force applied on the fixation assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A power meter includes a housing, a fixation assembly arranged at two ends of the housing, and a tension detection device arranged inside the housing and connected to the fixation assembly. The fixation assembly is configured to be detachably connected to two mechanical coupling members of a tension assembly of a rowing machine to cause a part of the tension assembly between the two mechanical coupling members to be in a relaxed state. The tension detection device is configured to detect a pulling force applied on the fixation assembly.