Elastic Resistance Training Device for Face-off Muscle Memory
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing training devices for face-offs in sports like ice hockey, lacrosse, and roller hockey are not lightweight, portable, cost-effective, or easy to use independently, lacking in providing resistance for muscle memory development and reaction time improvement.
Innovation Solution
A training device comprising a base connector, an elongated resilient member, and a stick wrap that provides resistance to a hockey stick's motion, allowing for solo practice and easy portability, with adjustable resistance levels and secure attachment to a stick, enabling effective muscle memory and reaction time training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional face-off training devices are used, then resistance training is provided, but the devices are not lightweight and portable
Solution Approach 1:
The training device is divided into separate components: a resilient member (elastic band), a stick wrap (attachment mechanism), and an anchor system. This segmentation allows each component to be lightweight and easily stored, enabling portability while maintaining training functionality when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional heavy mechanical resistance systems (pulleys, weight stacks, cable mechanisms) with an elastic band-based resilient member. This substitution dramatically reduces device weight and complexity while providing effective resistance training through the elastic properties of the band.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex equipment with pulleys and weight systems is used, then resistance is provided, but the equipment can only be used at one location
Solution Approach 1:
Complex pulley and weight systems are replaced with a simple elastic band that can be anchored to any stationary object (door, post, railing). This substitution eliminates the need for specialized installation and allows the device to be used in multiple locations including homes, hotels, and outdoor spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member and stick wrap combination can be used with various types of sticks (hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, baseball bats) and anchored to different stationary structures. This universality enables the same device to provide resistance training across multiple locations and for different sports.
3Ease of operation
If devices requiring assistance of a second person are used, then training is provided, but solo practice is not enabled
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be self-contained and self-operating. The resilient member provides automatic resistance through its elastic properties, and the stick wrap secures the stick without requiring assistance. Users can independently set up the anchor, attach the stick wrap, and begin training alone, eliminating the need for a training partner.
4Reliability
If traditional training devices are used, then resistance is provided, but muscle memory and reaction time training are not effectively developed
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member provides dynamic, variable resistance that increases as the stick moves through its range of motion, mimicking the force characteristics of an actual opponent's stick. This dynamic resistance effectively trains muscle memory and reaction time while maintaining a simple device construction that is easy to manufacture.
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 device effectively develops muscle memory, strengthens players, improves reaction time, and enhances confidence in face-offs, allowing for practice anywhere, with adjustable resistance to suit different users.
Implementation Method 1
The resilient member is configured to stretch from a unstretched state to a stretched state when a first force is applied to it, and to automatically return to the unstretched state when the first force is released, whereupon it provides resistance to a movement of the stick
Data Source
AI summary
A training device and methods for training a person for face-offs in athletic activities and games. The device includes a base connector, a resilient elongated cord or strap, and a stick wrap. The stick wrap is connected to the distal end of the cord. The base connector is connected to the proximal end of the cord. The stick wrap is a foldable member that is configured to be readily connected to the heel of the stick and once so connected be resistant to displacement therefrom. The base connector is configured to be connected to a stationary structure. The resilient member provides a desired level of resistance to a face-off motion of the stick by the user. The training device may be part of a kit of plural devices, each constructed to provide a different level of resistance for the user of the device.