Swivel-Hinge Control Panel Mount for Multi-Position Exercise Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise equipment, such as exercise bikes, often require the control panel to be oriented for use by a seated user, making it difficult to operate the equipment in alternative modes, such as using the handles for an upper body workout, without obstructing the control panel's visibility.
Innovation Solution
A control panel mount with a swivel joint and hinge, allowing the control panel to be pivoted and rotated for multiple orientations, enabling flexible mounting to exercise equipment and accommodating different user positions and workout styles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the control panel is fixed in a standard orientation for seated users, then the control panel is easily accessible and visible for normal operation, but the equipment cannot be effectively used in alternative modes such as standing upper body workouts
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel mounting structure is transformed from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable system. The mount includes a hinge joint allowing the control panel to pivot between a standard orientation (for seated users) and an extended orientation (for standing users). This dynamic adjustment enables the same equipment to accommodate multiple workout modes without requiring separate control panels for different user positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel assembly is divided into separable components: the control panel itself, the mounting plate, and the hinge mechanism. This segmentation allows the control panel to be independently positioned and oriented relative to the main equipment structure, enabling flexible configuration for different workout modes while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control panel is repositioned for standing users, then alternative workout modes become accessible, but the control panel may become obstructed or difficult to reach
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge-mounted control panel can be dynamically repositioned between orientations. When the user transitions from a seated to a standing position, the control panel can be pivoted to an extended orientation that positions the display and controls in front of the standing user, maintaining ease of operation. The same dynamic mechanism ensures the control panel remains accessible in both workout modes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed control panel orientation is used, then the mounting structure remains simple, but the display becomes obstructed when users stand in front of the equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism incorporates a hinge joint that enables the control panel to pivot between a standard orientation (when users are seated) and an extended orientation (when users are standing). This dynamic adjustment eliminates display obstruction for standing users while maintaining a relatively simple mounting structure compared to completely redundant control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the control panel from the main equipment structure through the hinge mechanism, the system allows independent positioning of the control panel. This segmentation enables the display to be oriented optimally for different user positions without complicating the overall mounting structure, as the hinge provides a straightforward rotational connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A control panel mount for an exercise machine has an equipment mounting plate, an intermediate plate and a control panel mounting plate. The equipment mounting plate is adapted and configured to be mounted to the exercise machine. The control panel mounting plate is adapted and configured to be mounted to a control panel of the exercise machine. The equipment mounting plate is hingedly connected to the intermediate plate, and the intermediate plate is rotatably connected to the control panel mounting plate.