Abstract: An exercise method is disclosed that includes at least one exercise device with at least one sensor and a method of information transfer between the exercise device and a user. This information transfer is likely accomplished by use of a computer monitor and some sort of input device such as a keypad. This can be combined by use of a touch screen monitor. The user is identified to the machine and a specific exercise protocol is generated and used to control the exercise session(s) on each machine being used. Sensory data is generated from each sensor on each exercise device, during each exercise session and used to generate a new protocol for the user's next exercise session. This new protocol is based on the user's performance on the previous exercise session. The information may also be compiled in a user-friendly format that the user can access via the internet or other multi-accessible information transfer system.

Abstract: An exercise method is disclosed that provides a tailor made exercise protocol that can be modified by a clinician in a supervisory position. A processor with a protocol-generating algorithm is used in communication with an exercise device. Data is input into the processor, such as age, height, weight and sex, and the processor generates an exercise protocol according to a protocol-generating algorithm and the user data. A supervisor is then capable of reviewing and allowing for modification of this exercise protocol. After the exercise protocol is approved it is transferred to the exercise device. A user can then perform an exercise session on the exercise device. Sensors on the device and/or user generate information regarding the exercise session. This information is transferred back to the processor where it is reviewed by the supervisor where the supervisor has the ability to modify the protocol for the next exercise session if they deem it necessary.

Abstract: A machine force system and control for an exercise device is disclosed. The device includes a drive motor and a brake the combination of which is mechanically fastened to the input shaft of a clutch. This clutch can take a variety of forms but is preferably an electrically controlled particle clutch. The output shaft of the clutch is in mechanical communication with the exercise arm of the exercise device. In the preferred embodiment, this mechanical communication is through a gear reduction and preferably a multiple reduction. This reduction increases the torque from the clutch to the exercise arm while reducing the speed of movement. A sensor to indicate the position of the exercise arm and a microprocessor unit to read, compare and operate the brake, motor and clutch is also included. The system includes a variety of exercises including isotonic, isokinetic and increased eccentric dynamic force, passive dynamic force and static isometric and stepped isometric resistance.

Abstract: A force development system for the application of controlled variable speeds and torque forces in exercise machines utilized to strengthen and develop body muscles of an exercising person. The system includes a constant speed high torque electric drive motor mechanically coupled to a dynamic clutch device in which the controlled coupling of the rotary force input assembly of the clutch to the rotary force output assembly of the clutch is accomplished via electromagnetic coil activation of metallic powder particles forming coupling particle chains between the input and output assemblies of the clutch. Alternatively, the dynamic clutch of the system may be a fluid clutch containing electrorheological fluid.The force development system of the invention also includes a speed reduction device between the dynamic clutch and the exercise machine to which the system is applied. An electronic sensor, interconnected to a microprocessor, senses the speed, motion and torque force of the system's output shaft.