Compression Training Apparatus for Facial Muscle Targeting

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of effective equipment to train and strengthen the muscles of the face, particularly those involved in embouchure and tone production, such as those used by brass instrument players.

Innovation Solution

A compression training apparatus comprising a disk portion, a shank portion, and an attachment portion, which allows for variable back pressure to be applied to the facial muscles, enabling effective exercise and strengthening of these muscles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional general muscle training equipment is used, then general muscle strength can be improved, but facial muscles specifically cannot be targeted or strengthened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefacial muscle targeting capabilityVSAvoidequipment structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The training apparatus is segmented into distinct functional components: a mouthpiece assembly for facial muscle engagement, a resistance mechanism for variable back pressure, and a measurement system. This segmentation allows the device to target facial muscles specifically while keeping each component relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus combines multiple functions into a single device: it provides resistance training for facial muscles, measures pressure levels, and allows variable adjustment of back pressure. This multi-functionality enables facial muscle targeting without requiring multiple separate pieces of equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If resistance training is applied to facial muscles, then muscle strength can be improved, but the training equipment becomes complex and difficult to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefacial muscle strengthVSAvoiddevice operation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus allows users to self-regulate the training intensity by adjusting the back pressure through the measurement system. The device serves itself by providing immediate feedback through pressure measurement, eliminating the need for complex external monitoring or adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables easy adjustment of training parameters by varying the back pressure levels. Users can modify the resistance by changing pressure parameters rather than reconfiguring mechanical components, simplifying operation while maintaining effective facial muscle strength training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If back pressure is applied during training, then facial muscle exercise effectiveness is improved, but noise is generated that interferes with tone production practice

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining effectivenessVSAvoidnoise
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus replaces noisy mechanical resistance mechanisms with a pneumatic or hydraulic back pressure system. This substitution eliminates the clicking, grinding, or mechanical friction noises that would interfere with tone production practice while maintaining effective resistance for facial muscle exercise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses gas or liquid pressure to provide resistance during facial muscle training. The back pressure is applied through fluid media rather than mechanical contact, producing no audible noise and allowing simultaneous tone production practice without interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

Data Source

PatentUS20250025746A1Compression Training Apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.01.23 MEREGILLANO LARRY EUGENE
  • US20250025746A1 patent drawing
  • US20250025746A1 patent drawing
  • US20250025746A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A compression training apparatus includes a disk portion, a shank portion, and an attachment portion. The shank portion is connected between the disk portion and the attachment portion. The disk portion comprises an end opening. The shank portion comprises an internal passage having a first end and a second end. The attachment portion comprises a hole. The internal passage is in fluid communication with the end opening at the first end and with the hole of the attachment portion at the second end.