Curved Core Exercise Device for Dynamic Plank Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing core exercise devices do not allow for unlimited isometric positions, including standard and side planks, and fail to provide isotonic dynamic planking capabilities, limiting the effectiveness of core muscle engagement and conditioning.
Innovation Solution
A core exercise device with a body engagement portion and a floor engagement portion, featuring adjustable components such as shoulder pads, elbow pads, and a forearm support extension, enabling users to perform isometric and isotonic dynamic planking by rotating between standard and side plank positions, with customizable features to accommodate different anatomical dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard plank position is used with hands or elbows on a stable surface, then core muscle engagement is maintained, but the exercise lacks balancing component and variety in isometric positions
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a curved support surface (half-sphere or dome-shaped platform) that allows users to assume multiple isometric positions including standard plank, side plank, and intermediate angles. The curved geometry naturally provides varying degrees of elevation and rotation, enabling unlimited isometric positions without complex mechanical adjustments or multiple components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hands or elbows are placed on an unstable surface like a balance ball, then balancing component is added, but the device lacks adjustability for different anatomical dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable components including removable forearm supports, repositionable handholds, and variable elevation settings that can be customized to match different user anatomies. These dynamic adjustments maintain proper body alignment and weight distribution, ensuring stable support while adapting to individual anatomical dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved support surface serves multiple functions: it provides the unstable balancing component, supports various isometric positions (standard and side planks), and accommodates different anatomical dimensions through its geometry and adjustable attachments. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate devices for different exercise variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static plank positions are held, then core strength is conditioned, but isotonic dynamic planking capabilities are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The curved support surface inherently enables both static and dynamic exercise modes. For isotonic dynamic planking, users can rotate along the curved surface from one side plank position through the standard plank position to the opposite side plank position, creating continuous rotational movement. The curved geometry provides the necessary mechanical advantage for smooth transitions without requiring complex actuators or mechanical systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise device includes a body engagement portion and a ground engagement portion. The body engagement portion is capable of supporting a user. The body engagement portion includes a base surface capable of supporting the user in a standard plank position. The ground engagement portion includes an arched contact surface that allows the user to rotate between a first side plank position, the standard plank position, and a second side plank position relative to a support surface while the arched contact surface remains in contact with the support surface and the body engagement portion supports the user.