Docking Assembly with Bias-Actuated Locking Members for Rapid Weight Plate Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing weight training systems, such as barbell systems, are time-consuming to adjust due to the need to remove collars for changing weight plates, making them unsuitable for rapid weight changes during group exercises.
Innovation Solution
A weight training device with a docking assembly at each end of the bar that allows weight plates to be automatically retained, featuring a slot with locking members that pivot under bias to secure and release the plates, enabling quick attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If collars are used to lock weight plates to the bar, then the weight plates are securely retained, but the time required to change weight plates increases
Solution Approach 1:
The docking assembly is divided into multiple locking members that can independently engage with the weight plate. Each locking member can be actuated separately or simultaneously, allowing the weight plate to be secured at multiple points along the bar. This segmentation enables reliable retention while reducing the time required to change weights compared to a single collar system.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are designed to automatically engage with the weight plate when it is placed on the bar, without requiring manual operation to secure them. The spring-loaded or biased locking members automatically snap into place, providing self-service locking that eliminates the time-consuming manual collar adjustment process while maintaining secure retention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If collars are removed and reattached for each weight change, then weight plates can be changed, but the complexity of the operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the weight plate itself and placed into the docking assembly on the bar. This allows the weight plates to be simple, standardized components that can be easily interchanged, while the complex locking mechanism remains fixed on the bar. Users simply slide the weight plates onto the bar and the locking members automatically engage, greatly simplifying the operation compared to manually attaching and detaching collars.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking assembly with its multiple locking members serves as a universal interface that can accommodate various weight plates of different sizes and configurations. The standardized docking mechanism allows any weight plate with a compatible mounting interface to be quickly attached and secured, enhancing versatility while maintaining ease of operation through a consistent, simple process.
3Reliability
If multiple locking members are used in the docking assembly, then weight plate security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking members are combined into a single integrated docking assembly unit that is attached to the bar. Rather than having separate locking mechanisms distributed along the bar, all locking members are merged into one modular component that can be easily installed and maintained. This merging reduces overall system complexity while providing enhanced security through multiple locking points.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members are designed with dynamic characteristics, such as spring loading or biasing mechanisms, that allow them to automatically adjust and engage with the weight plate. This dynamic design reduces the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms and simplifies the overall device while maintaining high locking security through automatic engagement and consistent force application.
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
Enables rapid and efficient adjustment of weight plates during exercises, improving usability in group fitness settings by allowing quick changes without the need to remove collars.
Implementation Method 1
said at least one locking member being able to move between a first locked position and a second unlocked position, said at least one locking member being under a bias to move towards the locked position
Data Source
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AI summary
Exercise equipment comprising a grippable handle at which said exercise equipment can be lifted by a user, and at least one docking assembly connected to the grippable handle. The docking assembly has opposing arms that define a slot in which at least one weight plate can be removably mounted. At least one locking member is located on the docking assembly to capture and/ or lock at one weight plate to the docking assembly once received in the slot.