Bidirectional Resistance Panels for Wearable Muscle Toning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing resistance training equipment is often not portable, requires stationary objects for use, and provides unidirectional resistance that can lead to uneven muscle engagement, failing to effectively work both flexor and extensor muscles without adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile, wearable dynamic resistance device with bidirectional resistance panels made of malleable metal or woven metal strands, attached around the waist and legs, providing consistent resistance throughout a range of motion and adjustable resistance levels to target both hip and knee joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional elastic resistance devices are used, then resistance is provided during exercise, but the resistance is unidirectional and varies in intensity throughout the angular range, failing to work both flexor and extensor muscles effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance device is divided into separate functional components: elastic elements for resistance generation, rigid links for structural support, and joint mechanisms for directional control. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in one function while collectively achieving bidirectional resistance capability without excessive overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic joint mechanisms that automatically adjust the resistance vector based on the direction of motion. The joints enable the rigid links to reorient relative to the elastic elements, providing optimal resistance orientation in both flexion and extension directions without requiring separate devices for each direction.
2Ease of operation
If resistance bands are used, then portability is improved, but they require attachment to stationary objects and sufficient space
Solution Approach 1:
The wearable resistance device integrates multiple functions into a single portable unit: it provides resistance during both flexion and extension movements, requires no attachment to stationary objects, and can be used in various exercise positions. The device combines the elastic resistance mechanism with a wearable structure that attaches to the user's body, eliminating the need for external anchors while maintaining resistance functionality.
3Strength
If conventional exercise equipment is used, then resistance training is provided, but the equipment is not portable and requires additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the resistance mechanism, support structure, and wearable components into a single integrated device. The elastic elements are combined with rigid links and joint mechanisms in one assembly that attaches to the user's body, eliminating the need for separate resistance bands, anchors, or additional equipment while maintaining effective muscle strength training capability.
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 effective, portable resistance training that evenly engages both flexor and extensor muscles, improving muscle strength and endurance without the need for additional equipment, and can be customized for different training objectives.
Implementation Method 1
The resistance panel may comprise a malleable metal. The resistance panel may comprise a plurality of malleable strands, typically extending in an inferior-superior direction in an as worn orientation. The resistance panel impart bidirectional resistance to movement throughout a range of motion.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a muscle toning garment with detachable, interchangeable resistance elements. The garment provides resistance training throughout an angular range of motion. The garment may be low profile, and worn by a wearer as a primary garment or beneath conventional clothing. Toning may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques.