Proprioception Balance System With Interchangeable Fulcrums
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a dual leg system that enhances proprioception, balance, and coordination with flexibility, while minimizing equipment and optimizing storage space, particularly in crowded facilities, as existing solutions are either too complex or costly.
Innovation Solution
A self-storing kit comprising a frame with integrated central rails on foot pads that allow for interchangeable attachments, including fulcrums of varying shapes, to adjust difficulty levels and improve proprioception, balance, and coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate balance training devices are used to provide variety in exercises, then exercise flexibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal base unit with a standardized mounting interface that can accommodate multiple different attachments (rockers, beams, planks, bridges). This single base structure serves multiple functions by allowing users to swap attachments to perform various balance and proprioception exercises, replacing the need for multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular components: a permanent base unit and interchangeable attachments. The base contains the mounting mechanism while the attachments (rockers of different radii, beams, planks, bridges) are separate segments that can be independently selected and attached, allowing flexible configuration without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate balance training devices are used to provide variety in exercises, then exercise flexibility and adaptability are improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements (base unit, mounting mechanism, and various attachments) are merged into a single integrated storage system. The base unit includes a storage area where attachments can be kept when not in use, combining the functions of multiple devices into one compact footprint that minimizes storage space in crowded facilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-radius rockers are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different skill levels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides adaptability through parameter changes in the attachment components. Different rockers with varying radii of curvature (smaller radius for greater challenge, larger radius for easier exercise) allow users to adjust difficulty levels. The standardized mounting interface ensures that despite parameter variations, the attachment mechanism remains simple and consistent.
4Adaptability or versatility
If specialized balance training equipment is purchased in quantity, then exercise program flexibility is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal base unit with interchangeable attachments provides program flexibility equivalent to multiple specialized devices but at a lower cost. Users can purchase one base unit and a small set of attachments to create diverse exercise programs, eliminating the need to buy multiple expensive specialized balance trainers.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for enhancing proprioception, balance, and coordination includes a frame, at least one foot pad having an integrated central rail for mating with the frame, where the integrated track allows for the connection of a plurality of different interchangeable attachments which connect with the frame on a mating track. The plurality of different interchangeable attachments includes a plurality of fulcrums having different shapes acting to alter the level of difficulty to increase a patient's mobility and balance.