Elastic Strap Stretching Device Resolving Stiffness and Portability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretching devices are cumbersome, difficult to use, and lack portability, making it challenging for individuals of all ages and skill levels to perform precise and effective stretching exercises, especially for isolating hamstring and calf muscles, and often lead to injury due to stiffness and discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A portable stretching and exercise device featuring flexible strap members and elastic resistance members, such as bungee cords, that allow for adjustable and comfortable stretching, minimizing stiffness and discomfort, and facilitating independent use without assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If firm and rigid material is used in stretching devices, then structural strength is improved, but comfort and ease of operation deteriorate due to stiffness and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using flexible strap members instead of rigid structures. The straps are made of flexible material that can conform to body contours and provide comfortable stretching without the stiffness associated with rigid materials, thereby maintaining structural integrity while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from rigid to flexible. By selecting flexible materials with appropriate tensile strength and elasticity, the device achieves both structural strength and comfort, resolving the contradiction between these two parameters.
2Ease of operation
If existing stretching devices are made portable, then ease of transport is improved, but functionality and effectiveness deteriorate due to inability to isolate muscle groups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the stretching device into separate strap members, each designed to target specific muscle groups. This allows the device to be compact and portable while maintaining the functionality to isolate and stretch individual muscle groups effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality through a set of interchangeable strap members that can be configured for different stretching exercises. This universal design allows a single portable device to perform multiple stretching functions for various muscle groups including hamstrings, calves, and lower back.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise stretching techniques are applied, then stretching effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in maintaining proper forms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the flexible strap members as intermediaries between the user and the stretching action. The straps provide tactile feedback and physical guidance that help users maintain proper stretching forms without requiring complex techniques, thereby achieving precise stretching while improving 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 device enables users to perform precise and effective stretching exercises safely and comfortably, reducing the risk of injury by providing a soft and adjustable stretching mechanism that can be easily transported and stored, suitable for various muscle groups including lower back, legs, and hips.
Implementation Method 1
elastic resistance members, such as bungee cords
Implementation Method 2
elastic resistance members (bungee cords) that allow for adjustable and comfortable stretching
Data Source
AI summary
A stretching and exercise device has a first strap member having a pair of end portions, a second strap member having a pair of end portions, and a pair of resistance members connected between respective end portions of the first and second strap members. A third strap member has a pair of end portions attached to respective first and second surface portions of the second strap member. A fourth strap member is attached to a third surface portion of the second strap member different from the first and second surface portions thereof.