Adjustable Weighted Roller with Internal Cavity and Modular Weights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weighted rollers lack mechanisms for quick and easy adjustment of weight and weight distribution, limiting their adaptability for various musculoskeletal treatments and applications.
Innovation Solution
A roller assembly with internal cavities and adjustable weight holders that allow for the insertion and removal of weights, featuring engaging members and end caps to securely retain the weights within the roller body, enabling easy adjustment of the roller's weight and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If weighted rollers are made with fixed weight structures, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability for different treatment needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The roller is divided into modular components: a roller body, removable weight assemblies, and retention mechanisms. The weight assembly is segmented into individual weights that can be independently added or removed, allowing customization of total weight and distribution without redesigning the entire roller structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller transitions from a static fixed-weight design to a dynamic adjustable-weight system. The weight assembly can be reconfigured by removing, adding, or repositioning weights along the roller body, enabling adaptation to different treatment requirements while maintaining structural integrity through the retention mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanisms for changing weight are added to weighted rollers, then adaptability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is pre-configured with engagement features that automatically secure weights when installed. The weight assembly includes pre-positioned engagement elements that align with the retention mechanism, eliminating the need for complex adjustment procedures during weight changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller body features a cylindrical shape with rounded ends, and the weight assembly incorporates curved engagement surfaces that naturally guide insertion and retention. The spherical or cylindrical geometry of components allows for easy rotational alignment and secure engagement without requiring precise positioning or complex locking mechanisms.
3Force
If heavy weights are used in rollers, then therapeutic effectiveness for deep tissue engagement improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in handling
Solution Approach 1:
The total weight is divided into multiple individual weight components rather than using a single heavy mass. This segmentation allows the therapist to select appropriate weight combinations for different treatment needs and makes the roller easier to handle by distributing the weight across separate removable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller's weight parameter can be dynamically changed by adding or removing weight assemblies. This allows optimization of the force applied during therapy - using heavier weights for deep tissue engagement when needed, and lighter weights for lighter treatments or patient comfort, all with the same roller body.
Data Source
AI summary
A roller assembly includes a roller body having a rounded outer surface, an end opening, and an internal cavity extending inwardly along an axial direction from the end opening and configured to receive a weight assembly including one or more weights, a weight holder received within the cavity and configured for holding the weight assembly within the cavity, and a retaining structure engaged with the roller body to retain the weight holder and the weight assembly within the cavity. The weight holder includes first and second engaging members to engage first and second ends of the weight assembly that are spaced in the axial direction, to limit movement of the weight assembly along the axial direction. At least one of the first and second engaging members is positionable in different axial positions relative to the other, such that the engaging members can accommodate changes in size of the weight assembly.