Sensing Device for Training Machine Elliptical Path Measurement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sensing devices on training machines are ineffective in accurately measuring exercise when used by individuals with impaired limb function, as they rely on complete wheel rotations, which may not occur, leading to inaccurate exercise data.

Innovation Solution

A sensing device with a linkage assembly and sensors that track the movement of a sensed member along an elliptical path, allowing for accurate measurement of exercise regardless of complete wheel rotations, using Hall Effect sensors to detect the member's position and output signals to a processor for distance calculation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a sensing device counts wheel body revolutions to measure exercise amount, then the measurement is simple and direct, but the measurement becomes inaccurate when the wheel body does not complete a full rotation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexercise amount measurement accuracyVSAvoidapplicability to users with impaired limb function

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical revolution-counting method with an optical sensing system. A light source emits light that passes through a light-shielding portion of the linkage assembly, and a photodetector detects the light intensity variations. This optical substitution allows measurement of partial movements without requiring complete rotations, resolving the contradiction between measurement simplicity and accuracy for impaired users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the measurement parameter from discrete revolution counting to continuous light intensity detection. By monitoring the light intensity variations as the linkage assembly moves through its range of motion, the system can accurately measure partial movements. This parameter transformation enables the system to adapt to incomplete rotations while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the sensing device requires complete wheel rotations for measurement, then the device structure remains simple, but the measurement validity is compromised for rehabilitation users

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement validityVSAvoidsensing device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces light as an intermediary medium between the linkage assembly movement and the measurement system. The light-shielding portion of the linkage assembly modulates the light intensity, which is then detected by the photodetector. This intermediary approach translates mechanical movement into optical signals, enabling reliable measurement of partial rotations without complex mechanical encoders or sensors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables precise measurement of exercise distance, ensuring accurate data collection even when partial rotations occur, effectively addressing the limitations of traditional systems.

Implementation Method 1

using Hall Effect sensors to detect the member's position and output signals to a processor for distance calculation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHall Effect: Hall Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10596414B2Sensing device for training machine

Publication Date: 2020.03.24 GEE HOO FITEC

AI summary

A sensing device for a training machine is disclosed. The training machine includes a base frame and two linkage assemblies, which are provided on two lateral sides of the base frame, and are pivotally connected to the base frame. The sensing device includes a sensed member and a sensing unit. The sensed member is engaged with the inside of one of the linkage assemblies, and moves along a movement path along with the linkage assemblies. The sensing unit includes sensors and a processor. Each of the sensors outputs a signal when the sensed member is located in a sensing range thereof. When the sensed member moves along the movement path, it is sequentially sensed by the sensors, and each of the sensors outputs the signal respectively. The processor receives the signals to determine a moving distance of the sensed member accordingly. Whereby, an amount of training could be measured accurately.