Stair Exerciser Eddy Current Braking and Controlled Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stair exerciser devices lack effective resistance control and safe ingress/egress mechanisms, making them less user-friendly and less effective for simulating stair climbing.
Innovation Solution
A stair exerciser with a downwardly and rearwardly sloping treadmill featuring an endless chain conveyor system, a braking mechanism, and a controller that adjusts resistance and positions the steps for controlled stops, combined with color differentiation for improved visibility of step types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a braking mechanism is added to control resistance, then resistance control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical friction brakes with an eddy current braking mechanism that uses electromagnetic induction. The eddy current brake generates resistance through electromagnetic fields interacting with conductive materials, eliminating the need for mechanical contact and reducing wear while providing smooth, controllable resistance adjustment through electrical control.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking mechanism allows for dynamic adjustment of resistance levels by changing electromagnetic field parameters. The controller can vary the strength of the eddy current braking effect to provide different resistance levels, enabling adaptive resistance control that responds to user needs and exercise intensity requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If steps are made movable to simulate stair climbing, then exercise effectiveness is improved, but safety during ingress/egress deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to detect when a user is approaching or leaving the exercise device and automatically positions the steps in a safe, stationary configuration before the user makes contact. This preliminary positioning action ensures that steps are stable and predictable during the critical ingress and egress phases, eliminating safety hazards associated with moving steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates sensors that continuously monitor user presence and step position, providing real-time feedback to the control system. This feedback loop enables the controller to automatically adjust step movement and positioning in response to user actions, ensuring steps are properly positioned for safe entry and exit while maintaining exercise effectiveness during active use.
3Measurement precision
If an endless chain conveyor system is used, then step positioning control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The endless chain conveyor system serves multiple functions: it transports steps through the exercise mechanism, provides precise positioning control, and enables the folding/unfolding action of the steps. By combining these functions into a single integrated system, the patent achieves precise step positioning without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
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 solution provides adjustable resistance, safe and controlled step movement, and enhanced user safety through controlled stops and easy access/exit points, improving the stair climbing simulation experience.
Implementation Method 1
a braking mechanism, such as an eddy current brake (ECB). The rotation of the flywheel is connected by way of the pulleys and transmission belts to cyclical movement of the endless chain conveyor around the upper and lower shafts. The braking mechanism resists the rotation of the flywheel.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a stair exercise device for simulating stair climbing, the device having a plurality of steps which are activated by the weight of a person walking up them. A stationary platform at the base of the stair exercise device sends a signal to a controller to bring the exercise device to a controlled stop when an operator steps onto the platform. The steps of the exercise device stop in a predetermined location when the exercise device comes to a controlled stop, ensuring proper step location to allow the operator to easily enter and exit the exercise device. Steps have a step platform of a different color than the risers between steps to aid in foot placement.