Curved Exercise Frame With Internal Handles For Core Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exercise equipment for toning and core muscle strengthening, such as dumbbells and sandbags, often lead to imbalances and injuries due to instability and discomfort, particularly during abdominal exercises, as they are difficult to hold in place and provide uneven weight distribution.

Innovation Solution

An exercise apparatus with a frame featuring outer and internal handles that allow multiple handhold positions, a deformable material for comfort, and adjustable weights, enabling versatile use across the body for various exercises without slippage or discomfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Weight of moving object

If barbell plates are used to add weight during abdominal exercises, then weight can be increased, but they are difficult to hold in place leading to slippage and injury

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidstability
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise apparatus divides the weight distribution system into multiple contact points: outer handles for hand gripping and an inner handle for chest/abdominal contact. This segmentation allows the weight to be stabilized at multiple locations simultaneously, preventing slippage while maintaining adjustable weight through the plate mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Weight of moving object

If sandbags are used as alternative weights, then weight can be adjusted, but they are large and unstable making them difficult to keep in place

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidease of handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise apparatus integrates multiple functions into a single device: it provides adjustable weight through plates, multiple handle positions for various exercise types, and built-in stabilization contact points. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sandbags while providing superior stability and ease of handling through its integrated design.

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

3Weight of moving object

If barbell plates are used for abdominal exercises, then weight can be added, but they are uncomfortable when rested on the chest

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveweightVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise apparatus applies different material properties to different contact areas: the outer handles have gripping surfaces optimized for hand contact, while the inner handle features a deformable material specifically designed for comfortable chest and abdominal contact. This local differentiation of material quality provides both weight capability and comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Strength

If free weights are used to strengthen legs and arms, then muscle strength can be increased, but imbalance in the body can occur without core strengthening

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemuscle strengthVSAvoidversatility
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise apparatus is designed to strengthen multiple muscle groups including legs, arms, core, and abdominal muscles through its various handle positions and exercise configurations. This multi-muscle group capability ensures balanced development across the entire body, preventing the imbalances that occur when only specific muscle groups are targeted with traditional free weights.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11045684B2Exercise apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 DALY LIAM
  • US11045684B2 patent drawing
  • US11045684B2 patent drawing
  • US11045684B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An exercise device comprising a frame having an outer frame periphery formed of outer longitudinal peripheral members and outer lateral peripheral members, wherein at least two internal handles are formed by at least two internal transverse members extending between the outer longitudinal peripheral members. Preferably there are at least two internal handles which project from the profile of the outer frame and is a centrally positioned aperture suitable for receiving a user's head in use. Preferably the frame is curved along the longitudinal extent. Preferably the frame comprises a deformable coating.