Design and implementation of a rodent voluntary wheel-running exercise facility incorporating dynamically controllable torque load

The design and implementation of a rodent voluntary wheel-running exercise facility for use in the study of changes in muscle structure and composition arising from different exercise regimes are discussed. The novel feature of this personal-computer-based system is its capability of dynamically adjusting torque load on the wheel independently of rotational speed and with zero impact on the rodent's environment in terms of noise, heat, or vibration. Emphasis in this paper is given to the unique set of requirements of this application that lead to the choice of an electromagnetic braking device, specifically the hysteresis brake, and its incorporation into a complete system for use in the research arena.