Adjustable Stretch Support Apparatus with Multi-Axis Ergonomic Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretching apparatuses are limited in their ability to provide a full composite stretch for muscles in the achilles, back, arms, and shoulders, often causing pain due to inadequate ergonomic design and muscle tension, and struggle with maintaining a stable and relaxed position for deep stretches.
Innovation Solution
A stretching apparatus with adjustable supports and handles that allows for deep stretches in multiple axes, including a knee support to prevent knee collapse, a waist support to alleviate body weight, and pivotable foot pedals for optimal ankle alignment, enabling users to engage muscles without unnecessary tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional stretching apparatuses are used, then basic stretching function is provided, but full composite stretch of multiple muscle groups cannot be achieved and pain is caused due to inadequate ergonomic design
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching apparatus is divided into multiple independent support elements including waist support, knee support, ankle support, and hand support. Each support can be independently positioned and adjusted to provide targeted stretching for specific muscle groups while maintaining overall body relaxation, thereby achieving full composite stretch without causing pain.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable support elements that can be dynamically positioned to match different user body types and stretching requirements. The supports can be moved along tracks or adjusted in height and angle, allowing the system to adapt to various stretching depths and directions while maintaining ergonomic alignment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If deep stretches are performed in multiple muscle groups, then stretching effectiveness is improved, but maintaining stable and relaxed position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the body are supported by specialized supports designed for their specific anatomical requirements. The waist support provides rotational freedom for back stretching, knee support prevents unwanted collapse, ankle support enables precise foot positioning, and hand support allows natural arm positioning. This localized optimization maintains overall body stability while enabling deep stretches in multiple regions simultaneously.
3Ease of operation
If adjustable supports are added to improve ergonomics, then stretching comfort is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each support element (waist, knee, ankle, hand) is designed to perform multiple functions. For example, the waist support not only provides back support but also serves as an anchor point for arm stretching. The knee support prevents collapse while also positioning the leg for hamstring stretching. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining ergonomic comfort.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for stretching a human body comprising a floor frame having a central axis. A first beam is coupled substantially perpendicular to the floor frame. The first beam has a foot pedal, a knee support, and a waist support. A second beam coupled substantially perpendicular to the floor frame, the second beam having a plurality of lower arm handles. A third beam is coupled substantially perpendicular to the floor frame. A fourth beam is adjacently coupled to the third beam. The third beam has a plurality of upper arm handles.