RESISTANCE MECHANISM WITH SERIES CONNECTED RESISTANCE PACKS

摘要

A resistance mechanism suitable for applications such as resistance exercise equipment, cable reels, garage doors and other equipment requiring a resistive force. Resistance packs (26) include circular rims (28) and central hubs (30) connected by deformable spokes (32). The packs (26) are stacked in pairs with the rims (28) in each pair pinned together and the hubs (30) rotatable relative to one another. Each hub has a spline (34) connection with the hub of the next resistance pack in the adjacent pair. This provides a series arrangement of the resistance packs (26) which allows a long extension of the actuator with the spokes (32) of each pack being deformed only slightly. A spiral pay out pulley for the cord assists in avoiding varying resistance with extension of the cord. The mechanism includes a preload system for applying a preload force to the resistance packs and a visual indicator for indicating the level of the preload force. An alternative construction involves forming the resistance packs in a single base having a pair of the resistance devices housed together. The devices may include arms connected by peripheral portions to provide loops that are looped around walls on the base to avoid a need for a bonded connection of the arms to the rims.