Velocity-Controlled Variable Resistance Using a Tapered Stator Bore
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise equipment requires users to select a fixed resistance before starting, limiting the ability to exercise muscles at higher weights during strong phases and potentially aggravating injuries due to uneven resistance distribution throughout the range of motion.
Innovation Solution
A variable resistance device with a longitudinal rod and stator, where resistance is adjusted based on the speed of movement, maintaining a predetermined speed and providing real-time feedback through a monitor, using a motor and solenoid to control resistance force dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fixed resistance is selected before exercise, then equipment operation is simple, but user cannot exercise at higher weights during strong phases and may aggravate injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed resistance to variable resistance that automatically adjusts during the exercise. The resistance force is dynamically modified based on the user's real-time effort and position in the range of motion, allowing the system to adapt to strong phases and prevent injury while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where sensors detect user effort, position, and speed throughout the exercise. This real-time feedback is processed by a controller that automatically adjusts resistance accordingly, enabling the system to respond to user performance and optimize the exercise while requiring minimal user input.
2Productivity
If variable resistance is implemented to optimize muscle engagement, then exercise effectiveness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting user effort and adjusting resistance without requiring manual intervention. The sensor array and controller work autonomously to monitor exercise parameters and modulate resistance in real-time, optimizing exercise effectiveness while managing complexity through automated self-regulation rather than manual control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a unified system where the variable resistance mechanism serves both exercise optimization and injury prevention purposes. The same resistance adjustment system handles different exercise phases, user capabilities, and safety requirements, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate mechanisms for each function.
3Strength
If resistance is increased during strong phases, then muscle engagement optimizes, but user may be exposed to excessive force at weakest points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by continuously adjusting resistance force based on real-time detection of user effort and position. The system identifies weakest points in the range of motion and reduces resistance at those specific parameters, while increasing resistance during strong phases, thereby optimizing muscle engagement without exposing the user to excessive force at vulnerable points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically modifies resistance parameters throughout the exercise based on detected user capability at each moment. By continuously adapting resistance to match user strength at different positions, the system maximizes muscle engagement during capable phases while minimizing harmful forces during weakest phases, preventing injury while optimizing performance.
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 users to experience varying resistance levels throughout the exercise, optimizing muscle engagement and reducing the risk of injury by adapting to the user's effort in real-time, thus enhancing the effectiveness of workouts.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid disposed for movement within the tube and attached to the longitudinal rod, the solenoid including a first electrical wire adapted for connection to a source of electricity and a second electrical wire connected to a controller adapted to adjust current in the solenoid based on speed of movement of the longitudinal rod to adjust the resistance force to maintain a target speed of movement of the longitudinal rod
Data Source
AI summary
Variable resistance devices and methods are disclosed. Resistance may be determined based on velocity of movement of a component in a variable resistance device. A variable resistance device may include a stator having a tapered internal bore and a plug disposed for longitudinal movement relative to the tapered internal bore to control resistance force. The tapered internal bore in the stator may be designed to yield a linear relationship between change in force and change in longitudinal movement of the plug relative to the tapered internal bore. The plug may be connected to a longitudinal rod movably disposed within a sleeve. The velocity at which the sleeve moves may be used to control movement of the plug relative to the tapered bore, and to thereby control resistance force. Variable resistance devices may be included as part of exercise equipment to control resistance force presented to a person using the equipment.