Convex Base Balance Platform for Stable Work Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing balance platforms for work are often inelegant, lack durability, are complex to use, and do not allow for customization or easy integration with reclaimed materials, leading to user discomfort and floor damage, while also not providing a stable surface when not in use.
Innovation Solution
A balance platform comprising two parts: a planar, rigid upper member and a convex lower member with a flat surface, allowing for adjustable configurations and customizable difficulty levels, which can be stacked and used in various orientations to accommodate different user needs and tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a balance platform uses an inflatable disk base, then it provides a simple structure, but it lacks durability and elegance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the base from inflatable (gas-filled) to solid convex shape, transforming the structural parameters while maintaining the balance function. This resolves the contradiction by providing both simplicity and durability through a solid convex base that is both simple in form and durable in material.
2Reliability
If a balance platform uses complex engineered components, then it provides stable support, but it reduces ease of understanding and customization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the balance platform into two simple segmented parts: a convex base and a flat board. This segmentation allows each component to have a clear, intuitive function while maintaining overall stability, resolving the contradiction between complex engineering and ease of understanding.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex mechanisms to achieve stability, the patent inverts the approach by using a simple convex shape that naturally provides stable support through its geometry. This inversion resolves the contradiction by making the stable support mechanism as intuitive as it is effective.
3Ease of operation
If a balance platform has a rocking motion mechanism, then it provides balancing exercise, but it causes floor damage and creates obstacles for coworkers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a convex (curved) base that provides balancing exercise through controlled rocking motion, while the curvature is designed to minimize floor contact stress. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining the beneficial rocking motion while reducing the harmful floor damage through optimized geometric parameters.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a balance platform allows pivot motion, then it provides dynamic balancing, but it creates unpredictable movement that requires conscious attention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the motion parameters by using a convex base with specific curvature radius that limits the range and intensity of rocking motion. This parameter optimization provides dynamic balancing benefits while keeping movements predictable and within safe, intuitive limits, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
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 platform provides a stable and customizable balance solution that reduces user fatigue, enhances focus, and minimizes floor damage, while allowing for easy use and integration with various materials, promoting both physical and mental stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
the first or upper surface of the second part (second or lower member) is curved outward convexly, the second or lower surface of the first part (first or upper member) is either substantially flat or concave
Data Source
AI summary
A balance platform configurable to have a second member with a flat side on the ground and a curved side facing upwards, and a first member that rocks on the second member. The elements of this balance platform are interchangeable in position to create different parameters of movement based on the different configurations. This invention may be used as a very easy balance platform for work or when upper body stability is desired. Additionally, there are different curvatures and combinations of curvatures of the surfaces that may be combined to adjust difficulty of balancing.