Caster Assembly with Cam Mechanism for Exercise Frame Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise equipment frames are bulky and heavy, making them difficult to move when not in use or when relocating for different exercising locations.
Innovation Solution
A caster assembly that includes a leg support with a movable portion to surround a leg, a wheel, and a mechanism with a lever and cam surface to transfer the weight of the frame from the ground to the wheel, allowing the frame to be easily moved between configurations for exercising and relocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the frame is constructed with rigid components to provide sufficient support for exercising, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the frame becomes bulky and heavy, making it difficult to move
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the support legs transformable between fixed and movable states. The legs can be configured in a deployed position to provide stable support during exercise, and then retracted or folded to enable easy movement of the frame. This dynamic transformation allows the frame to adapt its properties based on operational requirements, resolving the contradiction between needing strength during use and ease of movement during relocation.
2Strength
If the frame is designed to be bulky and heavy to provide sufficient support, then the load-bearing capacity is improved, but the frame becomes difficult to relocate to different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the frame into modular components, specifically the support legs that can be independently configured. Each leg can be selectively deployed or retracted, allowing the frame to maintain full load-bearing capacity when needed while enabling partial disassembly or reconfiguration for relocation. This modular approach allows the frame to adapt to different operational scenarios without compromising structural integrity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the frame remains stationary on the ground during use, then stability during exercising is improved, but the frame cannot be easily moved when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by designing support legs that can transition between fixed and movable configurations. During exercise, the legs are deployed to provide stable ground contact and support. When relocation is needed, the legs can be retracted or folded, transforming the frame from a stationary stable structure to a mobile configuration. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by allowing the frame to exhibit stability when needed and mobility when required.
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 the easy movement of exercise frames by transferring their weight onto wheels, addressing the challenge of their bulkiness and heaviness, while maintaining stability during use and relocation.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism to transfer the weight of the frame of the accepted leg from the ground to the wheel
Implementation Method 2
a lever including a cam surface and a handle
Data Source
AI summary
A caster assembly for a frame is described that permits a frame to be easily moved and placed. The caster assembly, which may lift a leg of the frame, can be placed or removed without picking up the frame. The caster assembly further includes a handle that moves a cam for engaging the caster assembly with the leg. A frame having at least one caster assembly is also described.