Finger Grip Training Device for Kinetic Chain Strength

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current strength-training equipment inadequately facilitates the development of neuromuscular pathways for dynamic hand strengthening and enhanced kinetic chain functional strength, failing to simulate real-world activities effectively.

Innovation Solution

A device that transfers tension from the wrist to the fingertips, allowing for real-life simulation by individually controlling tension on each digit through a system of attachments, cords, and resistance members, enabling dynamic strengthening of forearm musculature and related physiological structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional strength-training equipment is used, then general muscle strength may be improved, but dynamic hand strengthening and neuromuscular pathway development are inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforearm muscle strengthVSAvoidreal-world functional simulation

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the hand into individual digits, each capable of independent tension application through separate cords and attachment points. This segmentation allows each finger to be strengthened independently while maintaining natural hand function, directly addressing the inadequacy of traditional equipment in providing dynamic hand strengthening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device enables dynamic movement through the full range of motion for each digit, allowing fingers to move freely while under tension. The cords and pulleys system accommodates dynamic hand positions and movements, simulating real-world activities rather than static strengthening, thus improving adaptability and functional simulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If tension is applied at the wrist, then general forearm strength may be developed, but kinetic chain functional strength and real-life simulation are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvekinetic chain functional strengthVSAvoidreal-life movement simulation

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By applying tension individually to each digit rather than collectively at the wrist, the device creates independent kinetic chains from each fingertip through the hand to the forearm. This segmented approach better simulates real-life movements where fingers operate independently during gripping and manipulation tasks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cords and pulleys system acts as an intermediary mechanism that transfers tension from the weight stack to each individual digit. This intermediary system allows for controlled, progressive tension application that mimics the gradual engagement of muscles during natural hand movements, improving kinetic chain functional strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If individual digit tension control is implemented, then dynamic hand strengthening is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindividual digit strengtheningVSAvoidnumber of cords and attachments

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device uses a universal pulley and cord system that serves multiple functions: it provides individual tension control for each digit, allows full range of motion, and accommodates various hand positions. This multi-functional design reduces overall complexity by using a standardized mechanism across all digits rather than requiring separate complex mechanisms for each finger.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The use of flexible cords instead of rigid mechanical linkages allows for simplified construction while maintaining individual digit control. The cords can bend and flex to accommodate natural hand movements without requiring complex joints or pivots, reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Strength

If full range of motion is allowed during tension application, then functional strength development is improved, but risk of injury may increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional strengthVSAvoidinjury risk

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device allows dynamic movement through the full range of motion while maintaining controlled tension. The pulley system automatically adjusts tension based on finger position and movement phase, providing support during eccentric movements and controlled resistance during concentric movements, thereby reducing injury risk while maximizing functional strength development.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device provides inherent feedback through the tension system that responds to finger position and movement velocity. As fingers move through their range of motion, the tension and resistance automatically adjust based on the mechanical advantage provided by the pulley system, creating a safe, adaptive loading pattern that reduces injury risk while developing functional strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10252105B2Iron grip

Publication Date: 2019.04.09 EDWARD VIA COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE

AI summary

The present invention provides a system for training tendons and muscles of a kinetic chain including the finger tips through the elbow, including muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The system uses finger attachments to secure the digits or other anatomical components to one or more resistance members that allow the attachments to be positionable in any direction with respect to one another when a force is applied.