Compact Modular Weightlifting Frame with Adjustable Multi-Position Pulleys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing functional trainers for exercising multiple body parts are large and expensive, making them cost-prohibitive for home gym users and gyms with limited budgets.
Innovation Solution
A compact and cost-effective exercise system comprising a base structure, weight system, and upper structure with multiple pulleys and guide rails, allowing for versatile muscle exercises using a frame that can be assembled with mounting plates, brackets, and receivers, enabling a range of exercises with adjustable resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If functional trainers are designed to exercise multiple body parts, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise system is divided into modular components including a base structure with guide rails, multiple pulley assemblies positioned at different heights and locations, and separate weight stacks. Each pulley assembly can be independently adjusted or repositioned along the guide rails, allowing the system to provide multiple exercise functions without requiring a single complex integrated machine. This segmentation enables versatility while managing complexity through standardized modular units.
2Adaptability or versatility
If functional trainers are designed to exercise multiple body parts, then versatility is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pulley assemblies are designed as universal components that can perform multiple exercise functions. Each pulley assembly includes adjustable positioning mechanisms along the guide rails and can accommodate different cable attachments for various exercise types. This multi-functionality allows a single pulley assembly to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized machine components, reducing overall system cost while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes adjustable parameters including pulley positions along the guide rails, cable attachment points, and weight stack configurations. By allowing users to change these parameters, the system provides multiple exercise functions without requiring multiple fixed machine configurations. This approach reduces manufacturing costs by using standardized components that can be repositioned rather than building multiple specialized machines.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional exercise machines are used for specific muscle groups, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but versatility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic, adjustable components rather than fixed configurations. Pulley assemblies can be repositioned along the guide rails, and cable attachments can be adjusted to change exercise mechanics. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different muscle groups and exercise requirements while maintaining a relatively simple base structure that is easier to manufacture than multiple specialized machines.
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
The system provides a versatile and affordable solution for exercising multiple muscle groups, offering adjustable resistance and compact design suitable for home gyms and gyms with limited budgets.
Implementation Method 1
a first pulley assembly positioned remote from the base structure and the upper structure, wherein the first pulley assembly includes a first housing and a first pulley wheel rotatably coupled to the first housing
Implementation Method 2
a first weight stack positioned within the base structure and engageable with the base structure such that the first weight stack is movable along a first vertical path between a first lowered position and a first raised position
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise system includes a base structure including a first cross brace including first cross brace mounting plates disposed at each end of the first cross brace. A pair of base guide rail supports is secured to and extended substantially orthogonal from the first cross brace and includes a pair of base guide rail receivers. A pair of base pulley supports is secured to and extended substantially orthogonal from the first cross brace and further includes a pulley-support pulley housing. A pair of pulley-support pulleys is rotatably secured to the pulley-support pulley housing. A second cross brace includes a central portion substantially parallel to the first cross brace. The central portion is secured to the pair of base guide rail supports and the pair of base pulley supports. Two end portions are disposed at an angle to the central portion and terminate at second cross brace mounting plates disposed at each end of the two end portions and two central-portion pulley housings. A central-portion pulley is rotatably secured to each of the two central-portion pulley housings.