WO2016207615A1 - Appareil d'entraînement d'endurance musculaire - Google Patents

Appareil d'entraînement d'endurance musculaire Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2016207615A1
WO2016207615A1 PCT/GB2016/051844 GB2016051844W WO2016207615A1 WO 2016207615 A1 WO2016207615 A1 WO 2016207615A1 GB 2016051844 W GB2016051844 W GB 2016051844W WO 2016207615 A1 WO2016207615 A1 WO 2016207615A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wheel
training apparatus
strength training
conductive material
resistance
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2016/051844
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Milan Nemanja BACANOVIC
Original Assignee
Wilson, Ian John
Wilson, John Dudley
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Wilson, Ian John, Wilson, John Dudley filed Critical Wilson, Ian John
Publication of WO2016207615A1 publication Critical patent/WO2016207615A1/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
    • A63B21/0051—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using eddy currents induced in moved elements, e.g. by permanent magnets
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/00058—Mechanical means for varying the resistance
    • A63B21/00069—Setting or adjusting the resistance level; Compensating for a preload prior to use, e.g. changing length of resistance or adjusting a valve
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
    • A63B21/0058—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using motors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
    • A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
    • A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
    • A63B21/153—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains wound-up and unwound during exercise, e.g. from a reel
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/15—Arrangements for force transmissions
    • A63B21/151—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains
    • A63B21/154—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies
    • A63B21/156—Using flexible elements for reciprocating movements, e.g. ropes or chains using special pulley-assemblies the position of the pulleys being variable, e.g. for different exercises
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/22—Resisting devices with rotary bodies
    • A63B21/225—Resisting devices with rotary bodies with flywheels
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
    • A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
    • A63B21/4043—Free movement, i.e. the only restriction coming from the resistance
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/03516—For both arms together or both legs together; Aspects related to the co-ordination between right and left side limbs of a user
    • A63B23/03525—Supports for both feet or both hands performing simultaneously the same movement, e.g. single pedal or single handle
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
    • A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
    • A63B2024/0093—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load the load of the exercise apparatus being controlled by performance parameters, e.g. distance or speed
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
    • A63B71/0054—Features for injury prevention on an apparatus, e.g. shock absorbers
    • A63B2071/0072—Limiting the applied force, torque, movement or speed
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
    • A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
    • A63B21/0053—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2209/00—Characteristics of used materials
    • A63B2209/08—Characteristics of used materials magnetic
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/10—Positions
    • A63B2220/13—Relative positions
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/17—Counting, e.g. counting periodical movements, revolutions or cycles, or including further data processing to determine distances or speed
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
    • A63B2220/30—Speed
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/20—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment with means for remote communication, e.g. internet or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B2225/00—Miscellaneous features of sport apparatus, devices or equipment
    • A63B2225/50—Wireless data transmission, e.g. by radio transmitters or telemetry
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
    • A63B23/1245—Primarily by articulating the shoulder joint
    • A63B23/1263—Rotation about an axis passing through both shoulders, e.g. cross-country skiing-type arm movements
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/12—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles
    • A63B23/1281—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for upper limbs or related muscles, e.g. chest, upper back or shoulder muscles primarily by articulating the elbow joint

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to resistance apparatus, in particular strength or weight training apparatus.
  • Resistance weight machines are often used in weight training, instead of free weights, as they are typically safer, with the weights being constrained for linear motion in stacks.
  • the weight to be lifted can easily be changed by selecting the desired number of weights from the stack using a pin located at the desired height within the stack.
  • resistance weight machines are advantageous as they allow the direction of the applied force by a user to differ from the direction of stack movement, e.g. using a pulley system. Examples of resistance weight machines include bench press, chest press, leg press, shoulder press, etc.
  • the stack of weights is heavy by its very nature, meaning that resistance weight machines are cumbersome, awkward to move and expensive to transport.
  • the use of weights in a stack means that weights are elevated by the user when applying a force in a first direction. However, on the return stroke, the weights tend to fall under gravity back to their starting position. This presents a significant hazard of crushing anything inadvertently placed beneath the stack or trapped within the mechanism.
  • a user of the machine is intended to resist the return force caused by the falling weight in a controlled manner.
  • inexperienced users or users who have attempted to lift too great a weight simply allow the weights to fall with minimal resistance such that the weight lifting exercise is not correctly completed.
  • the user runs the risk of injury.
  • the power input by a user is not readily discernible. It is possible to count the number of times the weight stack has been lifted and to what height so as to thereby calculate a total force input.
  • the user may reduce the applied force as the weight stack decelerates towards to the top of its movement.
  • the full force applied by a user may only be applied for a very small portion of the lift.
  • the apparatus comprises a manual actuator operably connected to a wheel so as to drive rotation of the wheel in use, the wheel being mounted adjacent a static structure, wherein one of the wheel and static structure comprises a permanent magnet and the other comprises a conductive material mounted opposite the magnet such that resistance to movement of the actuator is provided by relative movement between the wheel and static structure, the apparatus further comprising an adjustment mechanism for selectively altering the resistance to motion of the manual actuator caused by the magnet.
  • the strength training apparatus advantageously makes use of one or more magnet instead of a conventional weight stack, so that conventional weights or weight stacks are not required.
  • the disadvantages associated with a weight stack in particular the safety risks and transport complications discussed, are thereby avoided.
  • the apparatus may, however, still be considered a strength training or so-called 'weight training' apparatus. That is to say, the apparatus specifically provides a strength training or weight training function, e.g. in addition to or instead of an aerobic exercise function.
  • the wheel is, in use, substantially inhibited from freewheeling by the magnet(s), e.g. according to the strength of the magnet(s) and/or the relative positioning between the magnet(s) and opposing conductive material.
  • the magnet(s) and conductive material may be arranged so as to arrest wheel motion within less than one revolution of the wheel or a fraction thereof, such as less than 45° , 20° , 10° , 5° , 2° or 1 ° , upon removal of a manual actuation tee.
  • the manual actuator and wheel may be operably connected such that, in use, application of force to the actuator causes the wheel to rotate, and removal of the applied force causes the wheel to stop rotating immediately.
  • the invention provides a system with a high level of resistance caused by high levels of electromagnetic induction within the conductive material.
  • the high level of resistance is specifically suitable for strength training as opposed to aerobic exercise.
  • the relative positions of the magnet(s) and the opposing conductive material are adjustable in a direction of the axis of the wheel. Axial adjustment between the wheel and static structure is used to vary the resistance to the movement of the manual actuator. Adjustment of the position of a wheel axle may advantageously allow adjustment of the resistance.
  • the magnet(s) and opposing conductive material may be mounted at a fixed or predetermined gap/spacing. Varying the relative positioning between the
  • magnet(s) and opposing conductive material may comprise varying the amount of overlap between the magnet(s) and conductive material. This may change the location of the conductive material within the magnetic field of the magnet(s) in a simple and readily controllable manner.
  • the apparatus relies on high levels of electromagnetic induction to create the high levels of resistance required for strength training. In many cases this requires the use of strong magnets and a close spacing between the magnets and the conductive material. The resulting tight tolerances create problems for adjusting the resistance level radially.
  • Axial adjustment is also beneficial in ensuring that a linear relationship can be maintained between the movement one or other of the magnets and the conductive material and the change in resistance experienced by a user.
  • the axial adjustment thus provides benefits over radial or other
  • a plurality of magnets may be provided on the wheel and/or static structure.
  • the plurality of magnets may be spaced circumferentially about the wheel axis.
  • the magnets may be arranged so as to have rotational symmetry about the wheel axis.
  • the resistance to movement is adjustable by varying the relative positioning of the magnet(s) and the opposing conductive material.
  • one or more gears may be provided, e.g. in the force path between the manual actuator and wheel.
  • the adjustment of the magnet(s) in order to adjust resistance may beneficially avoid or reduce the need for multiple gears.
  • the resistance may be adjusted continuously or with a desired number of increments through a predetermined range without requiring a gearing for each increment.
  • Gearings could be used, if desired, for macroscopic changes in resistance, with magnetic resistance adjustment being used for finer changes.
  • a single gear could be used to modify the torque/rotational speed between an input rotor and the wheel.
  • the manual actuator may be operably connected to the wheel with a fixed transmission ratio relationship, e.g. in one or both of first and second rotational directions.
  • the manual actuator may be directly connected to the wheel or may be connected by a force transfer member or transmission mechanism, such as a gearing, chain, pulley or the like.
  • the transmission mechanism may be
  • the manual actuator may be bi-directionally connected to the wheel, e.g. so as to drive rotation of the wheel in first and second opposing directions.
  • the resistance to motion in a first direction may be the same as, or different from, the resistance in the second direction.
  • the manual actuator may drive rotation of the wheel in the first direction only and may rotate, e.g. freely, and/or disengage the wheel in the second direction.
  • a clutch may be provided in the force path between the manual actuator and wheel.
  • the conductive material may or may not comprise a non-magnetic, or substantially non-magnetic, material.
  • the conductive material may comprise a metal.
  • the conductive material may comprise copper or aluminium.
  • the conductive material may be arranged in a ring/annulus about the axis of rotation of the wheel, e.g. on the wheel or the opposing static structure. A complete/continuous annulus of conductive material may be provided.
  • the gap between the magnet(s) and conductive material may be less than 5mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm or 1 mm.
  • the relative positions of the magnet(s) and opposing conductive material may be selectively adjustable. Adjustment may be manual or powered. Adjustment may be manually or electronically controlled.
  • Electronic control of the resistance may allow dynamic/reactive resistance adjustment during operation for a fixed power output per stroke of the manual actuator.
  • the user can set a desired power output per stroke or per set of repetitions.
  • the electronic controller can adjust the resistance to ensure the desired output is reliably achieved.
  • An adjustment mechanism may be constrained to linear adjustment of the wheel relative to the static structure or vice versa.
  • the strength training apparatus may comprise a visual indication to inform the user of the force selected by adjustment of relative positions of the magnet(s) and opposing conductive material.
  • the apparatus may comprise a display that indicates the force required to move the actuator.
  • the apparatus may comprise an adjustment member which is moved in use to adjust the position of the magnet(s) relative to the wheel.
  • the adjustment member may include one or more marker which may indicate the force required to move the wheel within the magnets
  • the magnet(s) may comprise or consist of one or more rare-earth magnet(s) such as for example one or more neodymium magnet.
  • the magnet(s) may be provided on the static structure.
  • the magnet(s) may be positioned on a ring which is concentric with the wheel and/or wheel axis.
  • the manual actuator may be pushed or pulled by the user in a given direction in use depending on the specific configuration of actuator for a given exercise.
  • the strength training apparatus may be adapted to provide strength training for a given group of muscles.
  • the strength training apparatus may be realised as a bench press, a chest press, a shoulder press, a leg press, etc depending on the particular configuration of the manual actuator and wheel.
  • the manual actuator and wheel may be operably connected through a pulley system.
  • a generally linear applied force to the actuator may result in rotational motion of the wheel.
  • the manual actuator may be moved in a first direction such that the wheel rotates in a clockwise manner, and the actuator may also be moved in a second direction which is the reverse of the first direction, such that the wheel rotates in a counter-clockwise manner.
  • the apparatus may comprise two or more manual actuators operably connected to the same or different wheels. Two or more manual actuators may be operably connected to a common axis for driving rotation of the wheel. If a plurality of wheels is provided, each wheel may have its own corresponding static structure and plurality of magnets.
  • weight training apparatus comprising a manual actuator operably bi-directionally connected to a wheel so as to drive rotation of the wheel in first and second opposing directions in use, a brake arranged to arrest motion of the wheel and a sensor system for determining both the distance of movement of the manual actuator and the force applied in rotating the wheel against the arresting force of the brake, wherein, the sensor system comprises one or more processor arranged to output an indication of the force applied by operation of the manual actuator.
  • the sensor system may comprise one or more sensor for detecting/measuring rotation of the wheel.
  • the distance of movement of the actuator may be
  • the output indication may comprise a dynamic output that may or may not vary over the duration/length of a single stroke of the manual actuator.
  • the output indication may comprise any or any combination of force, work done, power applied via the manual actuator.
  • the output indication may comprise a total value for each stroke of the manual actuator and/or a summation over a plurality of strokes.
  • the brake may comprise one or more magnet, such as, for example, one or more permanent magnet.
  • the magnet(s) may be provided on the wheel or a static structure adjacent the wheel.
  • the brake may comprise a conductive material on the other of the wheel and static structure.
  • weight training apparatus comprising a manual actuator connected to a wheel so as to drive rotation of the wheel in use and a sensor system arranged to determine at least one parameter associated with movement of the actuator against a resistance to actuation of the wheel provided by magnets positioned around an axis of rotation of the wheel, wherein the sensor system outputs a signal comprising information associated with the measured parameter for communication to the user.
  • the at least one parameter may be any or any combination of the following:
  • the apparatus may output information regarding the force/power/work applied across a single stroke.
  • the apparatus may provide real-time data capture.
  • the weight training apparatus may comprise means to determine the load applied to the actuator in a stroke.
  • the weight training apparatus may comprise a strain gauge.
  • the weight training apparatus may comprise a chain which moves as force is applied to the actuator/wheel.
  • the chain may drive, or be driven by, the wheel.
  • the sensor may comprise a strain gauge for the chain. The strain gauge may measure the tension in the chain.
  • the outputted information may be provided on a display.
  • the outputted information may be provided on a display.
  • a remote device for example a hand-held mobile device in communication with the sensor system.
  • the apparatus may connect wirelessly to the remote device, for example via a suitable radio/microwave frequency signal, such as via a Bluetooth connection.
  • a suitable radio/microwave frequency signal such as via a Bluetooth connection.
  • Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of a strength/resistance training mechanism for use in conjunction with an example of the invention
  • Fig. 2 shows a three-dimensional view of the assembled mechanism of Fig. 1 from a first side
  • Fig. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the assembled mechanism of Fig. 1 from a second side
  • Fig. 4 shows a side view of exercise apparatus according to one example of the invention
  • Fig. 5 shows a side view of exercise apparatus according to a second example of the invention
  • Fig. 6 shows a side view of exercise apparatus according to a third example of the invention
  • Fig. 7 shows a three-dimensional view of exercise apparatus according to a fourth example of the invention.
  • Fig. 8 shows a schematic layout of the sensor system for providing feedback to the user.
  • a mechanism 10 that allows magnetic braking/resistance to be used to replace the use of a conventional weight stack in weight training machines.
  • the basic mechanism 10, and variants thereof, as will be described herein, may be deployed in a variety of different kinds of resistance weight training machines.
  • the mechanism comprises a support structure 12, to which is mounted a rigid annulus 14.
  • the support structure in this example takes the form of a pair of opposing walls 12a and 12b upstanding from a common base 12c in a rigid spaced arrangement.
  • An intermediate wall or spacer 12d is also provided between the opposing walls 12b and 12c at a location spaced from the base 12c, e.g. in this example such that a proximal ends of the walls 12b and 12c contact the base 12c and distal ends of the walls 12b and 12c are joined by the spacer 12d.
  • the opposing walls 12a and 12b are generally parallel.
  • the wall structure thus defines a frame-like support on which other components of the mechanism can be mounted.
  • the wheel 14 is annular in form and is fixedly attached to shaft 20 such that it can rotate in unison with the shaft 20 in use. Whilst the annular wheel 14 has a ring- shaped wall 16 and a generally disk-shaped rear wall 18 in this example, in other examples, the relevant structure may comprise any suitable body of revolution, provided it is shaped for mounting at a predetermined spacing relative to a static opposing structure when rotating in use.
  • the mechanism comprises two shafts 20 and 22 mounted to the support structure 12.
  • the shafts are each mounted to respective walls of the support structure 12 by bearings such that the shafts can rotate in use relative to the support structure.
  • the shafts are spaced and oriented such that the axis of rotation of each shaft is generally parallel.
  • a static member 24 is mounted about the shaft 20 and is held/fixed relative to the support structure 12 such that it does not rotate due to rotation of the shaft 20.
  • the static member 24 is shaped so as to fit closely within the interior surface of the wheel annulus 14, i.e. such that an outer/annular surface of the member 24 maintains a fixed spacing from the opposing surface of the annulus 14 about its periphery. Thus the wheel 14 rotates relative to, and in close proximity to, the stator 24 in use.
  • the static member 24 is also has rotational symmetry and is generally circular in plan in this example so that the spacing between the static member 24 and wheel 14 remains fixed during wheel rotation.
  • Rotation between the wheel 14 and static member 24 is braked/resisted by way of a plurality of permanent magnets 26 mounted on the internal wall of the annulus 14.
  • the magnets oppose the outer wall of the member 24.
  • a set of three magnets is visible, although it is proposed to have one or more further set of magnets such that the plurality of sets of magnets define an array of magnets about the wheel axis 28. It may be preferable, although not essential to arrange the array so as to have rotational symmetry about the axis 28.
  • the number of magnets required is dependent on the strength of the magnets. In order to reduce the magnetic strength of any single magnet, it is preferable that a plurality of magnets are used. It has been found that using so-called rare earth magnets, i.e.
  • alloys of rare earth elements provides suitable magnetic field strength when an array of four or more magnets are used.
  • the braking force is achieved by moving a conductive material such as copper or aluminium through the magnetic field so as to induce a current in the conductive material by electromagnetic induction. The current produces an opposing magnetic field which then resists further movement of the conductive material. Resistive losses in the conductor allow energy to be dissipated as heat.
  • This kind of braking system has been found to be particularly beneficial in comparison to friction/contact braking systems, for which the speed of movement and/or temperature can reduce affect the braking force. Also the magnetic braking force is not significantly altered by repeated use. Whilst the braking system described herein has magnets provided on the rotating structure and the opposing conductive, and preferably non-magnetic, material provided on the static member, it will be appreciated that the opposite
  • the position of the wheel 14 relative to the member 24 is adjustable.
  • an adjustment mechanism allows selective adjustment of the wheel in a linear direction, i.e. in the direction of axis 28.
  • the adjustment mechanism comprises a threaded member 30 mounted on the shaft 20, e.g. on a free end thereof depending outwardly from wall 12b of the support structure.
  • corresponding threaded member is provided by way of adjustment member 32, in this example by a threaded internal surface of the adjustment member 32 which opposes the external thread of the member 30.
  • the position of the adjustment member 32 is fixed to the support structure, in this example by way of bolts such that when the wheel 14 is mounted on the shaft, the wheel is moved towards or away from the member 24 by rotation of the
  • the wheel is fixed on the shaft and the adjustment moves the shaft 20 in an axial direction, along with the wheel mounted thereon relative to the static annulus 14.
  • the adjuster could be selectively
  • the adjustment member 32 and/or the static structure adjacent the adjuster will typically have indicia of resistance and/or corresponding weight/load settings thereon so that the user can select a desired setting in advance of use of the apparatus.
  • Rotation of the shaft 20 in this example is driven in use by a transmission arrangement comprising a sprocket/gear wheel and chain system.
  • a sprocket 34 is fixedly mounted on the shaft 20 for rotation therewith.
  • a further sprocket 36 is fixedly mounted on the shaft 22 for rotation therewith.
  • a common chain 37 passes around both sprockets and engages with the teeth thereon so as to communicate a driving force in use between the shafts 22 and 20.
  • shaft 22 comprises an input shaft and shaft 20 comprises a driven shaft in this example.
  • the input sprocket 36 is of larger diameter than the driven sprocket 34 in this example.
  • the rotation speed of shaft 20 is increased relative to shaft 22 in use by way of the gearing provided by the different sprocket diameters.
  • the size/diameter of the member 24 and/or wheel 14 is greater than that of the sprocket 34.
  • the wheel 14 will thus turn through a greater angle than the input shaft 22 upon actuation thereof in use.
  • An additional sprocket 38 is provided on the input shaft 22 so as to allow transmission of torque to the input shaft 22 by a manual actuator as will be described below.
  • a chain 37 in the transmission system is beneficial in that the tension in the chain can be readily sensed so as to determine the load/force transmitted to the wheel 14.
  • a load sensor in the form of a strain gauge 40 is mounted against the chain for this purpose.
  • the load sensor is mounted to the static support structure 12, such as a wall thereof, by a suitable bracket.
  • the load sensor may comprise a polymer block that is pressed into the chain when at rest such that actuation of the chain pushes against the block resulting in a measurable strain/deformation.
  • the chain 37 may be omitted and teeth of opposing gear wheels could mesh directly together to transfer torque between shafts.
  • the manual actuator could act on the shaft 20 directly, without the need for an intermediate/transmission shaft 22.
  • the strain gauge 40 could be replaced with another kind of load sensor, such as a torque sensor on shaft 20, or conventional load sensor.
  • the resistance to rotation can be set manually by turning the adjustment member 32 to a desired setting in order to alter the amount of overlap between the conductive material on the member 24 and the array of magnets 26 on the wheel annulus 14.
  • Torque applied to the input shaft 28 is thus resisted by the interaction between the magnetic field produced by the magnets on the rotating annulus 14 and the conductive material on the member 24.
  • the braking force of the magnets arrests motion of the wheel 14 very rapidly when the applied manual input force is removed such that freewheeling of the wheel is prevented. This has been found not only to provide a controlled resistive force suitable for weight training in place of conventional weight stacks, but also to provide a system in which the applied force can be accurately/conveniently measured in order to provide feedback to the user.
  • Figures 4 to 6 show examples of the mechanism 10 being used in different types of strength training apparatus.
  • a manual actuator 42 in the form of an arm is provided for pivoting rotational input.
  • the manual actuator has a grip for actuation by hand but could also be adapted for leg extensions or other exercise as necessary.
  • the manual actuator 42 is pivotably actuable relative to an axle 44.
  • a sprocket 46 is mounted on the axle 44 for rotation therewith.
  • the sprocket is connected to the input shaft sprocket 38 by a chain 48.
  • the chain 48 provides a closed loop around both sprockets 38 and 46 so as to provide a bidirectional link between the manual actuator 42 and resistance mechanism 10.
  • a user actuates the actuator 42 in the direction of arrow A, it drives rotation of the sprocket 46 and hence sprocket 38 via chain 48 to thereby turn shafts 22 and 20 of the resistance mechanism 10.
  • return actuation of the actuator 42 causes an equal return resistance and so provides for strength training in both forward and reverse directions.
  • the manual actuator 42 is directly mounted to input shaft 22 instead of a separate axle 44 and thereby avoids the need for chain 48, allowing an input rotation of the actuator 42 to turn the input shaft and sprocket 36 in unison.
  • the actuator 42 is located relative to a seat 50 to allow the relevant strength training to be performed in a conventional seated position.
  • Other examples may allow for standing, lying or seated exercises as necessary to recreate the exercises performed using conventional weight training or resistance weights machines.
  • the equipment could be modified to perform strength training in one direction only by providing a suitable clutch mechanism in the force path between the manual actuator and input shaft.
  • the actuator could thus be effectively disengaged from a driving relationship with the mechanism 10 when actuated in a return direction.
  • the actuator could thus be returned to a starting position in readiness for repetition of a unidirectional actuation without driving rotation of the wheel 14, and under minimal resistance.
  • a one-way clutch in the form of a locking pawl acting on a suitably toothed wheel could provide one form of such a clutch mechanism.
  • a handle 52 is connected to a chain 54 which passes around sprocket 38 such that manually applied tension in the chain 54 causes it to drive the mechanism 10.
  • the apparatus may include a further sprocket 56 so that the chain 54 and handle 52 is correctly positioned for actuation.
  • the chain is not provided in a loop but is attached at one end to a fixed anchor point 58 via a resilient, e.g. elastic, member 60.
  • a resilient, e.g. elastic, member 60 When manual actuation of the handle 52 provides sufficient tension in the chain to drive the resistance mechanism 10, the resilient member 60 extends to accommodate the movement of the chain. When the actuation force is released, the applied tension in the resilient member 60 causes the chain and handle 52 to retract to the starting position for a further iteration.
  • the resistance mechanism typically provides the majority of the braking force, with the resilient member 60 providing a minor additional resistance so as to return the handle after each iteration.
  • Fig. 6 and/or the mechanism 10 described above may be extended to cater for a bidirectional drive system as per the example of Fig. 7 in which a first pulley/chain system 62 acts on a first sprocket 64 on the input shaft 22 and a second pulley/chain system 66 acts on a second sprocket 68 on the input shaft 22, spaced from the first.
  • the use of two sprockets on the input shaft allows two unidirectional pulley/chain systems to act in opposition to provide a bidirectional mechanism.
  • a first pulley/chain system drives rotation of the mechanism in a first direction
  • the second pulley/chain system drives reverse rotation of the mechanism in an opposing direction.
  • Each sprocket may be connected to the shaft 22 via a one-way clutch.
  • the chain/pulley systems 62 and 66 are connected to the same manual actuator so as to accommodate opposing actuation motions thereof.
  • the mechanism of Fig. 7 can be adapted for use with two manual actuators by attaching the first pulley system 26 to one manual actuator and the second pulley system 68 to the other actuator.
  • a first actuator can drive the mechanism in a first direction
  • the second actuator can drive the mechanism in the opposing direction.
  • the two actuators could drive a common shaft of the same resistance mechanism.
  • each actuator could drive a different shaft of a common resistance mechanism or else different/separate resistance mechanisms.
  • a separate strain gauge (or other load sensor) could be provided for each actuator so as to determine the individual contribution of each actuator to the total applied force by the user.
  • the same or a different gearing between the manual actuator and input shaft could be provided for each pulley/chain system 62 and 66.
  • the resistance to motion of the manual actuator in opposing directions could be the same or different as required by the machine in question.
  • Fig. 8 there is shown a schematic layout of the sensor system 100 for apparatus according to the various examples of the invention described herein.
  • the sensor system comprises a load sensor 102, such as the strain gauge 40 sensor or one or more other suitable sensor for indicating the force exerted by the user via the manual actuator.
  • the system comprises either or both of a displacement sensor 104 and a timer 106 in addition to the load sensor.
  • the displacement sensor in this example monitors the angular rotation of at least one of the rotors described herein as being part of the strength training apparatus, such as the wheel 24, either shaft 20, 22 or any of the sprockets.
  • the displacement sensor may monitor the angular displacement of the manual actuator at its axis of rotation.
  • a timer In the event that a timer is used, it measures the duration of each stroke of the manual actuator. This may be measured by the initiation and cessation, or change in direction, of angular rotation of any of the rotors described above.
  • the sensor readings are transmitted to a processor 108, which may comprise a programmable chip, having one or more algorithm or module of machine readable code for determining one or more output for the user.
  • the load sensor reading may be used to infer the force applied by the user, e.g. in newtons.
  • displacement sensor may be used to infer the distance of travel of the manual actuator or the wheel/chain in metres. Whether or not those readings are converted to corresponding readings for the manual actuator, the availability of force and displacement readings, e.g. for the wheel 24 in the mechanism 10, allows determination of the work done in joules by calculating force multiplied by displacement. Similarly, the processor can determine the associated power input by the user in watts as a measure of work/energy over time and/or the impulse applied by the user.
  • the processor can output successive values of those variables during each stroke over time and/or distance.
  • the processor can output a transient trace/plot for each stroke so as to indicate how the user is applying force to the actuator.
  • a user output device 1 10 such as a visual display screen and/or speaker.
  • the output device may be provided as part of the machine and may comprise a wired or wireless connection to the transmitter circuit associated with the processor. Additionally, or alternatively, the processor may communicate with a separate electronic output device, such as a smartphone, tablet or other suitable device of the user. This may be achieved for example by low power wireless communication, such as Bluetooth (RTM) or similar.
  • RTM Bluetooth
  • the electronic requirements of the sensor system are sufficiently low to allow operation of the system for extended periods of time from a single charge of a conventional rechargeable cell, such as the type of cell found in mobile telephones and smartphones.
  • the magnetic braking systems and/or corresponding sensor systems described herein are beneficial in allowing calibration of resistance weight training machines so as to provide uniformity of resistance and/or reporting to users across different resistance weight training machines.
  • the adjustment of the position of the magnets relative to the conductive material and the resistance to relative motion provided thereby may also be standardised across different machines. Whilst a manual adjustment mechanism is described herein in which a setting is selected in advance before each actuation or set of actuations of the apparatus, it is also possible for the one or more controller to control adjustment of the mechanism, either in response to a user adjustment input or automatically over a training set or programme according to
  • An electrically powered adjustment mechanism may be provided for this purpose instead of, or in addition to, the manual adjustment mechanism described above.
  • the ability to provide an accurate measure of applied power is particularly advantageous since the rapid actuation of the manual actuator requires a significantly different power input from a more gradual operation.
  • the ability to measure power output as well as work done by a user allows different attributes of strength training to be assessed.
  • a first mode may allow for a substantially constant resistance to be set by a user.
  • a second mode of operation may allow dynamic adjustment of resistance. For example, a user could set a desired power output in watts per stroke as a training parameter and the electronic control could adjust resistance in response to the user input so as to ensure the same parameter value is achieved per stroke.
  • User inputs may be achieved by a suitable user interface.
  • the apparatus/machines according to aspects of the invention may be

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  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention se rapporte à un appareil d'endurance (10), en particulier pour un entraînement d'endurance, qui utilise un freinage résistif à la place de poids ou de piles de poids classiques. L'appareil (10) comprend un actionneur manuel (42) destiné à entraîner la rotation d'une roue (14) pendant l'utilisation, et un ou plusieurs aimants permanents (26) qui génèrent une induction électromagnétique pour résister à la rotation de la roue (14) par rapport à une structure statique (24) de telle sorte qu'un roulage en roue libre soit sensiblement empêché.
PCT/GB2016/051844 2015-06-23 2016-06-20 Appareil d'entraînement d'endurance musculaire WO2016207615A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB1511018.2A GB2539673A (en) 2015-06-23 2015-06-23 Resistance strength training apparatus
GB1511018.2 2015-06-23

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WO2016207615A1 true WO2016207615A1 (fr) 2016-12-29

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CN107281695A (zh) * 2017-08-01 2017-10-24 张孟迪 一种单双向动力负载配重阻力元装置
CN113325431A (zh) * 2020-02-28 2021-08-31 意法半导体(格勒诺布尔2)公司 使用飞行时间感测的速度测量和防碰撞保护

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US20030070889A1 (en) * 2001-10-12 2003-04-17 Yuan Ho Chuen Co., Ltd. Control mechanism for use in magnetically operated wheels
US7018324B1 (en) * 2004-11-30 2006-03-28 Lily Lin Magnetic controlled loading device in combination of a power generating set and an adjusting drive mechanism
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CN107233694A (zh) * 2017-07-04 2017-10-10 舒华股份有限公司 一种新型的智能力量训练器
CN107281695A (zh) * 2017-08-01 2017-10-24 张孟迪 一种单双向动力负载配重阻力元装置
CN113325431A (zh) * 2020-02-28 2021-08-31 意法半导体(格勒诺布尔2)公司 使用飞行时间感测的速度测量和防碰撞保护

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GB201511018D0 (en) 2015-08-05

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