Development of an Exercise Machine with the Friction Principle

Abstract

This study presents the development of an exercise machine based on the principle of friction, designed under product design patent number 86670. The machine, resembling a vehicle with wheels, features a smooth rear surface for pushing and ropes on both sides for pulling. The research focuses on the design, construction, and testing of the machine, without involving a human sample group. The machine’s empty weight is 21 kg, with additional weighted bags ranging from 5 to 50 kg. The construction process includes building a steel frame, upholstering it, and attaching wheels. The experiment measures the forces required to push and pull the machine using force gauges. These measurements, including normal forces ranging from 206.0 N to 696.5 N, were conducted on two different floor surfaces: vinyl and carpeted. Results indicate that, on the vinyl floor, the average forces required to initiate movement at a normal force of 696.5 N were 32.04 N for pushing and 31.56 N for pulling. On the carpeted floor under the same normal force, the average forces required were 56.1 N and 45.0 N for pushing and pulling, respectively. These findings highlight the differences in force requirements across floor types and between pushing and pulling actions. Therefore, the proposed exercise machine is expected to be suitable for low-intensity exercise by utilizing normal forces and surfaces tailored to the user’s needs.