Conical Elastomeric Grip Handle for Exercise Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exercise grips are uncomfortable due to their cylindrical shape, which does not match the natural anatomical shape of the hand, leading to hand fatigue and inefficient load distribution, and often require grip stops and guards that create pressure points.
Innovation Solution
A conical grip handle made of elastomeric material with a tubular bar and integrated rope or strap, designed to fit the natural shape of the hand, distributing force evenly and reducing pressure points, allowing for comfortable and efficient load transfer during exercises.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a cylindrical grip shape is used, then the handle structure is simple, but the grip does not match the anatomical shape of the hand causing discomfort and hand fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by transitioning from a symmetric cylindrical grip to an asymmetric conical grip that matches the natural anatomical shape of the hand. The conical shape with varying diameter along its length conforms to the hand's contours, providing ergonomic comfort while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical grip implements local quality by having different diameters at different locations along the grip length. The larger diameter at the base provides stability and load distribution, while the smaller diameter at the top accommodates the hand's natural curvature, creating locally optimized contact surfaces throughout the grip.
2Strength
If grip stops and guards are added to a cylindrical handle, then load transfer is improved, but pressure points are created on the hand causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for separate grip stops and guards by integrating their load-bearing functions directly into the conical grip structure itself. The conical shape's geometry and elastomeric material properties provide both load transfer and hand protection without requiring additional components that create pressure points.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical grip merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: it provides load transfer, hand protection, and ergonomic shaping simultaneously. The elastomeric material combines structural support with cushioning properties, eliminating the need for separate protective guards and stops.
3Force
If a firm grip is maintained on a rope with grip stops, then load bearing is improved, but the small surface area of the hand against the grip stop makes gripping uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional rope grip to a three-dimensional conical grip structure. This dimensional change allows the load to be distributed across the entire conical surface area that contacts the hand, rather than concentrating force on small grip stop surfaces. The conical geometry provides progressive load distribution from the base to the top of the grip.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric material of the conical grip changes the mechanical parameters of the grip system by providing compliance and cushioning. This material property allows the grip to deform slightly under load, increasing the effective contact surface area between the grip and hand, thereby distributing pressure more evenly while maintaining load-bearing capacity.
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 conical grip handle reduces hand fatigue and requires less grip strength, providing a secure and comfortable grasp by distributing force across a larger surface area, enhancing the user's ability to perform exercises with reduced pressure points and improved ergonomics.
Implementation Method 1
The grip element is constructed of an elastomeric material that is slightly compressible while maintaining its shape
Data Source
AI summary
A handle assembly for coupling to exercise equipment such as resistance bands or weights. The handle assembly includes a grip handle having a conical elastomeric grip with a central opening, where the elastomeric grip is defined by an increasing outer surface circumference along its length to form a conical shape for the user to grasp. The conical grip handle is designed to fit the natural anatomical shape of the user's hand when grasping. A tubular bar may be fitted inside the central opening of the grip handle. A tensile member passes through the grip handle and forms a loop outside the grip handle, where the tensile member is connected to the exercise equipment via a ring, quick link or pulley. End caps may be fitted into the ends of the tubular bar, having openings which allow the tensile member ends to pass through into the interior of the bar.