Exercise and sitting apparatus and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise devices and wedges fail to adequately support the thoracic region and spine, limiting range of motion and promoting poor posture, especially during exercises that require hip and shoulder flexion beyond 90 degrees, and do not effectively address the anatomical needs of users sitting for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A pyramidal or cylindrical exercise apparatus with a sloped main body and reversible lid that elevates the thoracic spine and upper lumbar region, allowing for increased hip and shoulder flexion, and a smaller sitting apparatus that supports the buttocks and pelvic area, promoting better posture and comfort by accommodating anatomical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current exercise devices are used, then they provide basic support, but they fail to adequately support the thoracic region and spine, limiting range of motion
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device is divided into distinct support zones: a first support surface for the thoracic region and a second support surface for the pelvic region. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently - the thoracic support provides elevation and stabilization while the pelvic support enables hip flexion exercises, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable support and range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces vertical elevation of the thoracic region through the first support surface, creating a dimensional change that simultaneously improves support quality and enables greater range of motion. By elevating the upper body, the device allows hip flexion beyond 90 degrees while maintaining thoracic stability.
2Ease of operation
If wedges or pillows are used for sitting support, then they provide basic cushioning, but they do not properly support certain anatomical structures
Solution Approach 1:
The sitting support device incorporates locally optimized support surfaces: a first surface for the buttocks, a second surface for the lower back, and a third surface for the pelvic region. Each surface is positioned and shaped to support specific anatomical structures, transforming generic cushioning into targeted anatomical support while maintaining comfort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the exercise apparatus elevates the thoracic spine, then range of motion increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple support functions into a single integrated structure. The first and second support surfaces are combined in one unit, allowing simultaneous support of the thoracic and pelvic regions. This consolidation achieves complex anatomical support without requiring multiple separate devices, thereby managing structural complexity while enabling elevated range of motion.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise apparatus comprises a main body with a cavity that can be selectively covered with a lid. The main body is angled to increase the range of motion of a user of the apparatus. At least a portion of the lid is selectively housed within the cavity. A smaller scale embodiment of the exercise apparatus can be utilized as a sitting apparatus that corrects posture while a user is in a seated position. A method of exercise comprises a variety of steps which can be performed by a user while the user remains on his or her back.