Industrial automation works out in gym
May 2007
PLCs, DCSs & Controllers
Grucox eccentric exercise cycle
"The new Grucox eccentric exercise cycle developed by a team of surgeons, biokinetisists and engineers is determined to change the gyms as we see them today," says a Grucox spokesman.
This one-of-a-kind cycle design is driven by a small industrial automation system. A person or patient exercises by resisting or pushing against the driven pedals. An AC servo inverter-based controller controls the speed and torque of the motor which is connected to the pedals. The speed and torque of the cycle are set using a user-friendly touchscreen (HMI). The screen dynamically displays realtime progress of effort, speed and torque against set points. Gym members or patients cannot over-exercise and thus injure themselves.
Pedals are driven at the preferred constant forward or reverse speed and torque. Different programs allow continuous passive motion (CPM), concentric or eccentric exercise.
The compact design of the Grucox eccentric exercise cycle was achieved by incorporating a small industrial control system comprising LG/LS model GM7 PLC, PMU 330 HMI and Metronix APD-VS10 AC servo system controlling a small 800 kW high-performance servo motor. The servo drive ensures accurate cycle control by using a high precision encoder signal. The PLC communicates via Modbus with the HMI, which also acts as a gateway for the RS485 control of the servo controller. Ana-Digi Systems helped Grucox to prototype the initial control systems and provided training. Grucox engineers now develop their applications in-house. Several Grucox eccentric exercise cycles have already been installed in sports gyms.
Grucox Medical
Grucox Medical specialises in the development of state-of-the-art ergonomic equipment for orthopaedic rehabilitation and scientific exercise.
For more information on industrial automation components contact Keith Gross, Ana-Digi Systems, +27 (0)21 914 9034, keith@anadigi.co.za, www.anadigi.co.za
For more information on active exercise equipment contact Grucox Medical, +27 (0)21 914 9034, sales@grucox.com, www.grucox.com
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