Variable Stride Exercise Device Linkage Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stationary striding exercise devices provide a fixed footpath, limiting the user's ability to dynamically vary their stride length and path, which can lead to inefficient and uncomfortable workouts.
Innovation Solution
The exercise device incorporates a linkage assembly configuration with a frame, swing links, crank arms, guide links, and variable stride links that allow the foot platforms to travel through a closed curved path, adapting to the user's exertion level by modifying the stride length based on forces applied during exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed structural configuration is used for the exercise device, then the device structure is simple and stable, but the footpath cannot be dynamically varied and user adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed structural connections with movable linkage assemblies. The foot platforms are connected through swing links, crank arms, guide links, and variable stride links that can dynamically adjust their positions and angles. This allows the footpath to vary in real-time based on user input forces while maintaining structural integrity through the interconnected linkage system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the linkage assembly to continuously adjust geometric parameters such as link angles, distances between pivot points, and the shape of the closed curved path. These parameters change in response to forces applied by the user, enabling dynamic variation of the footpath without requiring manual adjustment of physical parameters.
2Ease of operation
If a predetermined fixed path is provided, then the device structure is straightforward, but the user cannot adjust stride length and path in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assembly operates on self-service principles by automatically adjusting the footpath parameters in response to forces applied by the user. The swing links, crank arms, and variable stride links self-regulate their positions based on the dynamic forces exerted during exercise, eliminating the need for manual controls or external adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates implicit feedback through the mechanical linkage structure itself. Forces applied by the user are transmitted through the swing links and crank arms, which automatically adjust the geometry of the footpath in response to the applied forces. This creates a feedback loop where user input directly influences the operational parameters of the device.
3Productivity
If manual changing of physical parameters is required, then the device structure remains simple, but the workout efficiency is reduced due to inability to dynamically adapt
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage assembly is pre-configured with variable stride links and guide links that enable automatic adaptation to user needs. The mechanical structure is designed in advance to respond to a range of possible user inputs, allowing the footpath to dynamically adjust without requiring real-time manual intervention or reconfiguration during exercise.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides for a variable stride exercise device having a variable size close curved striding path during use. The exercise device described and depicted herein utilizes various configurations of linkage assemblies, cam members, and other components, connected with a frame to allow a user to dynamically vary his stride path during exercise. An exercise device conforming to aspects of the present invention provides a foot path that adapts to the change in stride length rather than forcing the user into a fixed size path. A user's exertion level may have several components impacting the stride length provided by the machine, such as leg power, torso power, and (in embodiments with arm supports or exercise components) arm power. Other embodiments of the exercise device include a lockout device that selectively eliminates the variable stride features of the exercise device and allows the user to exercise in a stepping motion.