Adjustable Reformer with 3D Cord Guides for Flexible Exercise Motion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional exercise reformers lack the ability to accommodate a wide range of user sizes and exercise motions, limiting the variety and effectiveness of exercises that can be performed.

Innovation Solution

The reformer features a horizontally slidable carriage with adjustable resistance, vertically adjustable guides, and a cord system that allows for customizable exercise angles and lengths, enabling 3-dimensional motion and smooth operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional reformers use fixed guides and fixed cord lengths, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different user sizes and exercise motions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of user sizes and exercise motionsVSAvoidguide and cord system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the guides adjustable in position along the frame and making the cord lengths adjustable. The upper guide can be repositioned vertically along the upright posts, and the cord lengths can be modified to accommodate different user sizes and exercise types, transforming a static system into a dynamic, adaptable one

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The reformer achieves universality through adjustable guides and cords that enable multiple exercise motions and accommodate various user sizes. The same basic structure can support different exercise patterns (pushing, pulling, stretching) by simply repositioning guides and adjusting cord lengths, making the device versatile for diverse fitness needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the reformer allows infinite adjustment of guide positions and cord lengths, then the versatility increases, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment range of guides and cordsVSAvoidadjustment process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment system is segmented into discrete components: the frame with marked positions, adjustable guides that can be independently repositioned, and separately adjustable cord lengths. This segmentation allows users to make incremental adjustments rather than dealing with a completely continuous system, making the process more manageable and easier to operate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed setup locations are used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to accommodate different exercise patterns is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexercise pattern varietyVSAvoidadjustable setup system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static fixed setup into a dynamic adjustable system where guides can be repositioned along the frame and cord lengths can be modified. This allows the exercise patterns to adapt to different user needs and fitness goals, enabling a variety of motion patterns while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables a greater variety of exercises, including those that target specific muscle groups and joints effectively, reducing joint stress and accommodating users of varying sizes and abilities, with improved stability and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

a resistance element attached to the carriage for biasing the carriage to an equilibrium position between the first and second ends

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12377303B2Adjustable reformer
Publication Date: 2025.08.05 MERRITHEW INT INC
  • US12377303B2 patent drawing
  • US12377303B2 patent drawing
  • US12377303B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An adjustable reformer for exercising is provided. The reformer includes a frame, a carriage slidably mounted to the horizontal frame, and at least one resistance element connected to the carriage. A cord connects the carriage to at least one lower guide and at least one upper guide. Pulling the cord causes movement of the carriage along the frame against resistance provided by the resistance element. The guides can be height adjustable. The reformer can include a cord-length adjustment system. Related methods of exercise are also provided.