Back Massage Support Structure for Neutral Posture Targeting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing back massage tools require users to hold them in unnatural positions, strain other body areas, and cannot selectively target discrete areas like myofascial trigger points.
Innovation Solution
A back massage apparatus with an extended structural support element, gripping members, and a massage member that allows users to maintain a neutral body position while massaging, using a wall for support and enabling selective targeting of back areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users grip existing back massage tools, then they can massage their back, but they must hold the tools in unnatural, twisted and/or non-neutral positions
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate gripping members that can be independently positioned on the user's back, allowing each gripping member to be held in a neutral position while collectively providing back massage coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a single-point contact tool to a distributed multi-point contact system with two gripping members spaced apart, enabling neutral hand positions while maintaining effective back massage contact
2Ease of operation
If users grip existing back massage tools, then they can massage their back, but they must strain other areas of the body
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the gripping function into two separate members, the device distributes the massage force across multiple contact points on the back, reducing the strain required on any single body area while maintaining effective massage pressure
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary that transfers massage force from the user's hands to the back in a distributed manner, reducing direct body strain by using the structural support element to stabilize the gripping members
3Adaptability or versatility
If users use existing back massage tools, then they can massage their back, but the tools cannot selectively target discrete areas
Solution Approach 1:
The two gripping members can be independently positioned and manipulated to target specific discrete areas on the back, such as myofascial trigger points, while maintaining the ability to cover larger areas when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The gripping members are designed to be movable and adjustable along the structural support element, allowing dynamic repositioning to adapt to different back areas and massage requirements
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
An apparatus for use in massage comprises an extended structural support element, at least one massage member and two gripping members, which two gripping members are laterally disposed on the structural support element relative to one another. It is configured such that a user in a standing position with their arms at rest by their sides may grip the two gripping members, when the support structure is disposed behind them, and manipulate the apparatus to massage a position on their back. The apparatus enables a user to independently massage their back to relieve pain and/or tension or to relax, while maintaining a neutral body position and without inordinately straining or twisting any area of their body to impart a massaging force on their back.