Finger Exerciser with Independent Tension Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing finger and hand exercisers lack the ability to individually adjust resistance for each finger, leading to either too great or too little resistance, and do not allow for independent adjustment of spring tension without affecting the height of the plungers.

Innovation Solution

A finger and hand exerciser design featuring a housing with chambers for tension adjustment members, knurled wheels for adjusting spring tension, and plungers with compression springs that can be individually adjusted to vary resistance without changing plunger height, along with markings for resistance indication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the spring tension is increased to provide greater resistance for finger exercise, then the exercise effectiveness is improved, but the device becomes less adaptable to users with different strength levels

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexercise effectivenessVSAvoidadaptability to different user strength levels

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements adjustable spring tension through a tension adjustment mechanism that allows users to modify the resistance level. The spring tension parameter can be changed by rotating an adjustment knob that compresses or releases the spring, enabling the same device to adapt to users with different hand strengths and exercise needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The device transitions from a fixed resistance system to a dynamic, adjustable resistance system. The tension adjustment mechanism allows real-time modification of spring compression, enabling users to dynamically adapt the resistance level during exercise routines based on their current capability and progress.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Force

If the spring tension is adjusted by changing plunger height, then the resistance is modified, but the plunger height changes affect the overall device dimensions and ergonomics

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespring resistanceVSAvoidplunger height

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent separates the tension adjustment function from the plunger height by introducing a dedicated tension adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows independent control of spring tension without affecting plunger position, as the adjustment occurs through a separate threaded engagement system rather than by moving the plunger itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tension adjustment knob acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user and the spring tension. By rotating this knob, users indirectly adjust spring compression through a threaded engagement with the plunger assembly, without directly moving the plunger height or affecting the overall device dimensions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a tension adjustment mechanism is added to each finger plunger, then individual resistance adjustment is enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividual resistance adjustment per fingerVSAvoidnumber of adjustment mechanisms

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The tension adjustment mechanism is merged with the plunger assembly, where the adjustment knob threads directly onto the plunger body. This integration allows tension adjustment without requiring separate mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining individual finger resistance adjustability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tension adjustment mechanism serves multiple purposes: it adjusts spring tension, provides a reference scale for resistance levels, and maintains plunger alignment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, balancing adaptability with device simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 users to tailor resistance for each finger, providing a customizable exercise experience and allowing for precise adjustment of spring tension, enhancing user comfort and effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient member, such as a spring, for providing a resilient force

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

Each tension adjustment member includes a knurled wheel having its outer peripheral edge at least partially exposed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS7967732B2Finger and hand exerciser with tension adjuster

Publication Date: 2011.06.28 D'ADDARIO

AI summary

A finger and hand exerciser includes a housing defining four chambers arranged side-by-side in parallel with one another. Each chamber receives a tension adjustment member, a plunger that is reciprocatingly slidable in the chamber, and a helically wound compression spring extending between the plunger and the tension adjustment member. Each tension adjustment member includes a knurled wheel which the user of the finger and hand exerciser may turn to decrease or increase the force the spring exerts on the plunger.