HK40082192B - Modular and dynamic force apparatus - Google Patents

Description

Modular and dynamic force devices

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/014,191, filed April 23, 2020, entitled “DYNAMIC RESISTANCE EXERCISEMODULE”, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The implementation described herein generally relates to modular dynamic force modules for altering unique dynamic forces during different forms of physical activity.

Background Technology

Compared to static weights or specialized electromechanical training systems, the dynamic and variable forces used during physical activity can maximize efficiency and reduce injury or strain.

Some exercise equipment utilizes resistance mechanisms, such as U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044. However, U.S. Patent No. 6,440,044 is limited in the amount of resistance it can provide to the user. Furthermore, the resistance mechanism is based on weights, rather than the force generated by the user. This makes it easier for users to over-fatigue their muscles and increases the risk of injury.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 20030027696 teaches a cable machine having a counterweight stack attached to a cable. A pulley system is used, which limits the usable range of motion and may cause the user to over-isolate individual muscles, potentially leading to injury.

Resistance bands, such as those described in U.S. Design Patent No. 750,716, can be attached to different devices to provide various forces across different ranges of motion; however, the resistance is limited depending on the band's mass. Furthermore, the resistance generated by using a band throughout physical activity is static.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 20080119763 teaches a system for acquiring, processing, and reporting personal exercise data about selected muscle groups by measuring vector forces from at least one muscle or muscle group acting on a physical exercise device. The system provides information to the user, enabling the user to manually adjust the exercise device.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 20200151595 discloses the processing of sensor data to improve user training. This invention provides users with feedback and suggestions for adjusting form and manual resistance in subsequent training program modifications.

U.S. Patent No. 10,661,112 discloses digital force training using received information relating to the position of an actuator connected to a motor via a cable.

Existing technologies have failed to provide a modular dynamic motion resistance module that analyzes real-time data to provide automatic, real-time adjustment of force. This invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of physical activities such as exercise, and reduces user injury and strain.

Summary of the Invention

This invention provides a system and method for improving the efficiency of physical activity.

The Dynamic Motion Resistance Module (“DMRM”) and the method of generating variable force represent an improvement over existing technologies. This is because the DMRM uses variable torque force (such as a DC motor, eddy current, friction clutch, or torsion sensor) that is converted into a linear force and controlled by a microprocessor. The DMRM receives adjustments based on various sensors and calculated optimized forces. This allows the user to perform physical activities, such as exercises, based on their unique abilities, which generate variable forces based on the magnitude of the force the user is able to apply. If the user's ability to apply force fluctuates during activity, the force can vary in a single repetition or over a set of exercises. The DMRM is particularly helpful for users recovering from injuries and those aware of the importance of avoiding overexerting their muscles.

The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein describe a module that provides dynamic force control, which performs electromechanical control within a closed-loop device (mechanical, electrical, and software) that can modify the relative force experienced by the user and adapted to the individual based on various input variables during physical activity, such as training or treatment sessions. Input variables include repetition rate, recovery period, current physical activity configuration, daily goals, historical guidance, and AI adjustments. Input variables can be received from a mobile application associated with the user's device or from the force module. The DMRM differs from other physical activity equipment, such as static Olympic weight plates, because it is a modular system that uses variable torque force to generate dynamic force for the user in real time. Therefore, the DMRM can be used as an alternative module to static weight plates.

DMRM optimizes the efficiency of each body activity and force based on inputs from various one or more sensors and calculated adjustments, thereby improving the user's physical activity by adapting and modulating forces. Sensors may include Hall effect sensors for positioning, strain gauges for forces (e.g., force-sensitive resistors, piezoelectric sensors, optical sensors, or torsional sensors), and contact closure or proximity detection for safety interlocks or motor controllers.

DMRM can be attached to many Olympic barbell or standard barbell and dumbbell components or other exercise equipment to add dynamic force to other static masses.

DMRMs can be installed in unique ways. DMRMs can be configured and used for static force routines with programmable force and hold time to accommodate daily physical activities or the same closed-loop force modulator can be added to other physical exertion applications and treatments.

A modular and dynamic force device for real-time adjustment of standard and dynamic torque-to-linear forces during physical activity, the device comprising a force module, a user device, and a device tracking and processing unit. The force module includes: an attachment point of an open hub for attaching the device to an external source; one or more sensors for measuring data regarding the efficiency of physical activity; an internal processor, a radio and force sensor module; a variable-length cable; force generating components; and a motor controller. The internal processor, radio, and force sensor module includes: a device tracking measurement unit (“ATMU”) adapted to measure the data; a first electronic communication channel for transmitting the measured data to the device tracking and processing unit (“ATPU”); and a second electronic communication channel for transmitting one or more device status data for adjusting the dynamic force. The user device receives one or more device status data via the second electronic communication channel to notify and/or adjust the force in real time. The user interface includes a display providing feedback and the device tracking and processing unit (“ATPU”). The ATPU includes a first electronic communication channel for receiving measurement data from the ATMU, a microprocessor, a memory storage area, a database stored in the memory storage area, and a tracking processing module located in the memory storage area. The database stores a first set of evaluation rules and a second set of evaluation rules, the first set corresponding to one or more tracking parameters, and the second set corresponding to one or more device conditions. The tracking processing includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, cause the microprocessor to: determine one or more tracking parameters using the measurement data and the first set of evaluation rules, and determine one or more device condition data using the one or more tracking parameters and the second set of evaluation rules.

Attached Figure Description

Various advantages of the embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following description and appended claims, and with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary DMRM configured to operate according to an embodiment of the present invention for use with force equipment commonly found in professional training rooms or home gyms;

Figure 2 shows an exemplary internal view of the DMRM;

Figures 3a and 3b illustrate exemplary uses of DMRM;

Figures 4a, 4b and 4c illustrate exemplary uses of DMRM when exercising on a bench;

Figure 5 illustrates alternative uses of the DMRM when a user pulls the variable force cable on a rowing machine;

Figure 6 illustrates alternative uses of the DMRM when a user pulls the variable force cable;

Figure 7 illustrates an alternative use of the DMRM when a user pulls the variable force cable during swimming;

Figure 8 illustrates alternative uses of DMRM when two users are interacting;

Figure 9 illustrates alternative uses of DMRM for pets;

Figure 10 illustrates alternative uses of DMRM on treadmills;

Figure 11 illustrates the alternative uses of DMRM as a security module; and

Figure 12 illustrates an alternative use of the DMRM when a user pulls the variable force cable.

Detailed Implementation

The DMRM's unique modularity allows it to be attached to a variety of traditionally used force apparatuses (such as barbells, racks, benches) and used in other physical activities. The DMRM includes a fully enclosed/feedback loop motor controller that adjusts and refines in real time based on the user's dynamic or anatomical response to the applied force. This allows the user to simultaneously engage multiple muscle groups across a virtually unlimited range of physical forces and motions. The variable force is based on the applied user force and limits the possibility of injury. Furthermore, the invention has a smaller mass than a conventional static weight plate, so accidentally dropping the device on a toe or finger may cause less injury to the user. Modularity, combined with a novel device for replicating variable force, and a lighter weight, distinguish the DMRM from any other force apparatus.

DMRM can be used for various types of physical activities. This includes exercise, boundary constraints, safety modules, and two-person interactive activities.

Figure 1 illustrates an example of a modular, stand-alone dynamic motion resistance module 1. While some exemplary embodiments described herein are tailored for stand-alone modules, the currently disclosed devices and methods are not limited to this configuration and can be used in other apparatus environments employing similar applications and methods. One or more modules may be mounted or anchored to the instrument used.

As shown in Figure 1, the device includes an open hub 13 sized to fit various types of equipment, such as Olympic or standard barbells and dumbbell components. An outer housing 10 houses a dynamic force component, including a motor such as a DC motor, power supply, intelligent controller/wireless communication, sensors, an embedded processor, and cables or reels 4. The module may also include a display. The cables or reels 4 of the DMRM 1 provide connection points 5 for attaching hand grips, levers, or anchor points for user access to the attached module. Sensors may include: torsional sensors, such as Hall effect sensors, strain gauges, and safety interlocks; and external physiological sensors, such as heart rate, force, timing, training mode, calorie consumption, training repetition rate, and training history. The sensors are located within the force module, but their specific locations may vary. Sensors may be positioned together with the internal processor and radio module, or they may be positioned separately within the force module. Sensor feedback may be auditory, tactile, and/or sensory. The DMRM 1 is mounted on an internal rotating section 13 that provides varying force to the belt or cable 4 in the linear direction 2, allowing the user to experience varying force based on sensor-controlled and calculated inputs to optimize physical activity. The DMRM 1 also houses signage and branding space 16.

Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary diagram of the internal and internal force functions of the DMRM 1, showing the main components used in transmitting dynamic forces, including a linear force vector 2 generated by the internal rotational force 3 and a typical communication device 9 that sends commands to the module to change forces. Torque to linear force is generated by a motor, gear, pulley, or vortex-driven component 6 powered by a power source 7, such as a battery or line power. Force and communication are handled by an internal processor, radio, and force sensor module 8, which serves as both an Equipment Tracking Measurement Unit (“ATMU”) that alternately receives control commands from a commercially available external device 9 and a self-contained integrated DMRM (offline/manual mode), the external device 9 serving as an Equipment Tracking Processing Unit (“ATPU”). The ATMU measures data from the device/module and transmits the measured data to the ATPU using an electronic communication channel. The ATMU uses a second electronic communication channel to transmit one or more of the device status data to a user interface for adjusting dynamic forces. A local user interface on the device or related application is used to adjust all force and physical activity configurations. The ATPU includes a microprocessor and a memory storage area. The memory storage area includes a database and a tracking processing module. The tracking processing module includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, use measured data and a set of evaluation rules to determine one or more tracking parameters, and use one or more of the tracking parameters and another set of evaluation rules to determine the device and/or module condition measured by the ATPU. The database stores the sets of evaluation rules. At least one set of rules corresponds to one or more of the individual tracking parameters, such as repetitions per minute, total repetitions, calories burned, and goals achieved; the other set of evaluation rules corresponds to one or more device and/or module conditions.

The embedded processor in Module 1 monitors the electric motor control loop, sensor management, and wireless communications such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, or cellular. The embedded processor provides local control and computation, as well as variables such as mains power, timers, motor control configuration, start/stop, force, and safety interlock status. The embedded processor can also provide computed or raw data to the ATPU, allowing for higher-level computations to be performed at any boundary of the architecture. The ATPU is a logic element that can physically reside within the DMRM or in the user interface. The ATPU transmits device status, such as battery charge status, safety status, and system health. Optimized linear force is directed to cable or strip 4. Cable or strip 4 includes attachment points 5, which can be, for example, clamps, eye hooks, or other common or custom attachment points to allow for various accessories and attachment options to cable or strip 4. When the module is in an "offline" state, it can be in a low-power sleep mode or powered off.

Figures 3a and 3b illustrate how the DMRM 1 applies its force and internal force functions in practice. The generated force vector 2 can be accommodated via an internal industry-standard/universal barbell or dumbbell bar 30 or other universal hub adapters for connecting/installing the module. Straps or cables 4 and attachment points 5, in a linear direction, allow the user to experience varying forces based on sensor- and calculated inputs to optimize physical activity. The DMRM 1 includes various safety mechanisms, such as cable safety stops (cut-off switches), anchor points (foot anchors 18 in Figure 3a or ground anchors 17 in Figure 3b), and/or hardware/software control and feedback loops (sensors, electronics, software) for real-time closed-loop control and dynamic force application. The foot anchors 18 counteract the applied force to achieve a dynamic, free-weighted experience.

Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c illustrate the DMRM 1 used with the pressing bench 40. The DMRM 1 is mounted on the bar 30. The user is able to perform various exercises with different ranges of force vectors 2. Figure 5 illustrates the use of the DMRM 1 on the rowing machine 50. The user interface 9 can be part of the rowing machine or a separate user interface, such as a smartphone. Two DMRM 1s are attached to the rowing machine 50; however, the number of modules attached to the machine can be one or more. The user pulls the cable 4 while rowing on the rowing machine 50 and receives real-time feedback and the tactile sensation of actually rowing in the water.

Figures 6, 7, 8, and 9 illustrate exemplary uses of the DMRM 1. In addition to mounting the DMRM to conventional exercise equipment, a static weight plate 14 can be added, as seen in Figure 6. The DMRM 1 can be mounted in other ways; for example, it can be mounted to one or more anchor points 70 on a load-bearing structure and then attached to a swimmer's harness 15 to adjust or measure dynamic body activity forces during swimming (Figure 7). As seen in Figure 8, the DMRM 1 can also be used for interactive two-person workouts or therapeutic activities. For example, one user holds a barbell 80 with two modules, while another user attaches a barbell (or other form of equipment) 85 to a strap or cable 4 via attachment point 5. Another example, as shown in Figure 9, is attaching the DMRM 1 to an animal or pet via a harness or belt 12. The DMRM 1 provides the animal with freedom of movement unless it reaches a user-defined boundary. When the set boundary 92 is reached, the dynamically applied force begins to exert resistance, resulting in a complete stop under controlled length and restraint (e.g., hold or lock mode).

Figures 10, 11, and 12 illustrate other alternative uses of the DMRM 1. Figure 10 shows the DMRM 1 attached to the treadmill 100 at attachment point 102, and the cable or strap 4 attached to the user's waist via a safety belt or other connection point 104, thus keeping the runner fully centered on the treadmill 100. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the DMRM 1 can also be used as a safety braking module attached to the user at attachment point 110, such as a safety belt, thereby providing the user (human or animal) with freedom of movement. If stray forces are detected, or when stray forces are detected, such as in the event of a fall or trip, the device will hold or lock, thus securing the user. Figure 12 illustrates the use by a sprinter or figure skater, where the DMRM 1 is attached to the user via a safety belt or other connection point 19 during training. The device senses and controls the forces applied to the user. In addition, the module can be configured and used for static force routines with programmable force and hold time to suit daily physical activities or to add the same closed-loop force modulator to other physical exertion applications and treatments.

In the foregoing specification, the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from its broader spirit and scope. Therefore, this specification and the accompanying drawings should be viewed in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims (18)

1. A modular and dynamic force device for real-time adjustment of standard and dynamic torque-to-linear force during physical activity, the device comprising: Force module, the force module includes: An attachment point of an open hub, wherein the open hub attaches the device to an external source; One or more sensors that measure data about the efficiency of physical activity; An internal processor and a radio and force sensor module, wherein the internal processor and the radio and force sensor module include: A device suitable for measuring data, including a tracking measurement unit; A first electronic communication channel, the first electronic communication channel being used to transmit measurement data to a device tracking processing unit; and A second electronic communication channel is used to transmit status data of one or more devices to regulate dynamic forces; Variable length cables; Force-generating components; and Motor controller; The user device receives the status data of one or more devices via the second electronic communication channel to notify and/or adjust the user in real time; the user interface includes a display and provides feedback; and The device tracking processing unit, wherein the device tracking processing unit includes: The first electronic communication channel is used to receive the measurement data from the device tracking and measurement unit; microprocessor; Memory storage area; A database stored in the memory storage area, wherein the database stores a first set of evaluation rules and a second set of evaluation rules, the first set of evaluation rules corresponding to one or more tracking parameters, and the second set of evaluation rules corresponding to the one or more device conditions; The tracing processing module, located in the memory storage area, includes program instructions that, when executed by the microprocessor, cause the microprocessor to: The measurement data and the first set of evaluation rules are used to determine the one or more tracking parameters, and The one or more tracking parameters and the second set of evaluation rules are used to determine the one or more device status data. 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the force applied to the variable length cable, the motor controller, and the conveying force are dynamically adjusted based on sensor data and input variables calculated by the device tracking measurement unit. 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment point of the open hub is used for installation, wherein the inner diameter of the attachment point of the open hub is sized to fit a standard barbell bar or a standard dumbbell bar. 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the regulated dynamic force is powered by an internal and self-contained power supply. 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the sensor provides feedback. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the sensor is: a Hall effect/encoder for tracking and positioning; a force-sensitive resistor, force sensor, torsion sensor, or device current consumption for force calculation; and mechanical and electrical safety stops, wherein sensor feedback is used to send drive/resistance commands to the device tracking and measurement unit to refine body movements or to send mature data to the device tracking and processing unit for further processing and analysis. 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the adjusted dynamic force applied by the force module is obtained from information received from the user device, wherein the user device is a smartphone application or a personal area network device. 8. The device of claim 1, further comprising one or more external sensors, wherein the external sensors sense heart rate, force, timing, training mode, calorie consumption, training repetition speed, or training history, and the external sensors are used by the device tracking processing unit for calculations. 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the attachment point of the open hub is used for installation, wherein the inner diameter or profile of the attachment point of the open hub is sized to fit the attachment anchor. 10. The device of claim 4, wherein the power source is rechargeable. 11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device tracking processing unit is located in the force module. 12. The device according to claim 1, wherein the device tracking processing unit is located in the user device. 13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment point of the open hub is provided with an anchor point for fixing the force module, wherein the force module is also connected to a person at the connection point. 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the person is a runner, and the device senses and controls the dynamic force applied to the runner. 15. The device of claim 1, wherein the attachment point of the open hub is provided with an anchor point for securing the force module, wherein the force module is also connected to the animal via a connection point, and the device applies dynamic force and resistance when the animal reaches a user-defined boundary. 16. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is a safety module that allows the animal or human to move freely until a stray force is detected, wherein the device becomes locked when the stray force is detected. 17. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is adapted for two-person interactive activities, wherein a first person is connected to the force module via an attachment point of the open hub, and a second person is connected to the variable-length cable via an attachment point. 18. The device of claim 9, wherein the attachment anchor attaches the force module to the exercise equipment.