Self-Service Back Stretching Apparatus with Cable-Pull Restraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stretching beds for back pain relief are not user-friendly and require assistance, making it difficult for individuals to operate them independently.
Innovation Solution
A stretching appliance with a height-adjustable mast, pivotably mounted rest, and adjustable restraining means for shoulders and feet, allowing users to easily set and control the stretching process through a cable pull mechanism and gas compression springs for minimal effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional stretching beds are used, then back stretching function is provided, but operation complexity increases and user independence decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching bed is divided into modular components: a base plate with mast, a separately mounted rest assembly, and independent restraining means for shoulders and feet. This segmentation allows each component to be simple in itself while combining to provide the complete stretching function, reducing overall operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be operated independently by the user themselves. The rest is pivotably mounted to allow easy positioning, and the coupled restraining means automatically adjust when the rest is pivoted, eliminating the need for therapist assistance and enabling self-service operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional stretching beds are used, then back stretching function is provided, but adaptability to different body sizes decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The rest is pivotably mounted on the base plate, allowing it to be positioned at different angles and heights. The restraining means are coupled to move together when the rest is pivoted, providing dynamic adjustment capability that adapts to various body sizes without requiring complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupled restraining means serve multiple functions: they restrain both shoulders and feet, and they automatically adjust their positioning when the rest is pivoted. This multi-functionality provides adaptability to different body sizes while maintaining simple device architecture.
3Measurement precision
If fine control of stretching is required, then control precision increases, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupled restraining means provide inherent feedback: as the rest is pivoted to different positions, the restraining means automatically adjust their positions in response. This coupled movement ensures that the user maintains precise control over the stretching degree through simple rest positioning without complex control mechanisms.
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 users to independently and effectively stretch their back with fine control, providing relief from back pain with minimal effort and adaptability to different body sizes.
Implementation Method 1
The upper mast part 6 is supported by way of two gas compression springs 26 by the upper end of the lower mast part 8, so that the grip bar 23 can be pulled towards the user with minimal effort.
Implementation Method 2
A large deflection pulley 3 with two cable grooves is assembled at the upper end of the upper mast part 6
Implementation Method 3
The steel cable 5 then leads upwards from this deflection roller 19, around a deflection roller 4 assembled at the upper end of the upper mast part 6, and from there, in the represented view, in the clockwise direction around the large deflection pulley 3
Data Source
AI summary
Stretching apparatus consisting of a base plate having a vertically adjustable mast and an upper end of which a lying element is mounted. The lying element is pivotable about a horizontal shaft. Adjustable restraining elements with pads for the arms and the feet are attached to movable slides. A standing surface extending perpendicularly to the lying element is formed thereon. Handle bars for controlling pivoting of the lying element are articulated at the upper mast part. The movable slides are connected with the restraining means on the lying element via cable pulls having a steel cable about a plurality of deflecting rollers. By pivoting the lying element about the horizontal position, the slides with the pads can be moved apart and back toward each other again. By rocking about the horizontal position of the lying element, the back can be alternately stretched and relaxed.