Convertible Bench Pivot Mechanism for Space-Constrained Exercise Stations

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a versatile exercise machine that can support users in both seated and non-seated positions, offering adaptability for various exercises while minimizing space usage, as existing functional trainers often lack the ability to seamlessly transition between different configurations.

Innovation Solution

The exercise machine incorporates a swing-away workout station with a pivotable bench seat and stabilizing support that can adjust vertically and pivot forwardly and backwardly, allowing it to be used in seated positions and provide stabilizing support in standing positions, with rotating arm assemblies that move along a vertical center post for versatile exercise configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a functional trainer includes multiple stations for different exercise positions, then exercise versatility is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexercise versatilityVSAvoidmachine complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workout bench is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a seated workout station when positioned at the front of the machine, and as a stabilizing support for standing exercises when positioned at the side. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated stations for different exercise types, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining exercise versatility.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The workout bench is made dynamically reconfigurable through its ability to pivot between different positions (front and side of the machine) and adjust its orientation. This dynamic adaptability allows a single component to replace multiple static components, reducing device complexity while providing various exercise configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If a functional trainer includes multiple stations for different exercise positions, then exercise versatility is improved, but space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexercise versatilityVSAvoidspace requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The workout bench serves multiple purposes within a single location, functioning both as a seated workout station and as a stabilizing support for standing exercises. This eliminates the need for multiple separate stations that would consume additional floor space, thereby maintaining exercise versatility while reducing overall space requirements.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The ability of the workout bench to dynamically reposition between front and side locations allows one piece of equipment to occupy the space of multiple stations, reducing the total area required while providing diverse exercise options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the workout bench is made pivotable and adjustable, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebench adaptabilityVSAvoidadjustment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The workout bench incorporates pivotable connections that enable it to rotate between different positions (front and side of the machine) and adjust its orientation. This dynamic capability allows a single component to provide multiple configurations for different exercise types, improving adaptability while the pivot mechanism keeps the added complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This design enhances the machine's versatility, allowing users to perform a wide range of exercises in different positions with minimal space requirements, providing effective support and adaptability for various workout routines.

Implementation Method 1

The bench seat and stabilizing support may be pivotable forwardly and backwardly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical rotation: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3341088B1Convertible bench and upright stabilizing support
Publication Date: 2020.02.19 HOIST FITNESS SYSTEMS INC
  • EP3341088B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3341088B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3341088B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An exercise machine for performing a variety of different exercise routines includes a rotating arm assembly and a swing-away workout station. The workout station may include a bench seat and a stabilizing support, and may be adjusted to provide for a number of different configurations. For example, the bench seat and the stabilizing support may pivot forward and backward, and the stabilizing support may extend upward and downward for supporting the user's body in different positions, while performing different exercise routines.