Folding Rowing Machine Frame With Locking Assembly for Compact Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing rowing exercise machines often occupy significant space when not in use, and there is a need for a design that allows for a compact and efficient transition between a use and storage position, enhancing the footprint, and there is a requirement for a design that allows for a compact and efficient transition between a use and storage position.

Innovation Solution

A rowing exercise machine with a pivotally connected frame that allows for a transition from a use position to a storage position, featuring a locking assembly that secures the frame members in the use position and enables rotation for compact storage, along with adjustable components for user comfort and convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the rowing exercise machine is designed with a fixed frame structure to ensure stability during exercise, then the stability is improved, but the space occupied when not in use increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe stabilityVSAvoidstorage footprint
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure transitions from a static fixed configuration to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The first and second frame members are pivotally connected, allowing the structure to change between an extended use position (providing stability during exercise) and a collapsed storage position (reducing footprint). This dynamic transformation resolves the contradiction by making the structural property adaptable to different operational states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is divided into separate modular members (first frame member and second frame member) that can be independently positioned and connected. This segmentation allows the structure to be reconfigured from an extended stable configuration during use to a compact folded configuration for storage, addressing both stability requirements and space constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If a locking assembly is added to secure the frame in use position to maintain stability, then the stability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe stabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking assembly is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the frame's position. When the frame members are in the extended use position, the locking mechanism self-activates to secure the connection, providing stability without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity while maintaining the necessary stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking assembly acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the movable frame members. It provides a simple mechanical interface that secures the pivotal connection during use while allowing easy release for storage, thereby adding minimal complexity to achieve the required stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Area of stationary object

If the frame members are designed to rotate for compact storage to reduce footprint, then the storage area is improved, but the reliability of maintaining use position decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage footprintVSAvoidposition maintenance reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The pivotal connection between frame members enables dynamic reconfiguration between extended and collapsed positions. This dynamic design allows reliable transition to compact storage while maintaining the extended use position through the locking assembly, resolving the contradiction between storage efficiency and position stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking assembly is designed to automatically engage in advance when the frame members reach the extended position, preventing accidental movement or collapse during use. This preliminary locking action ensures reliability is maintained even though the frame is designed to be movable for storage purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 design facilitates a compact storage position while maintaining functionality, enhancing user comfort and convenience through adjustable features and efficient space utilization.

Implementation Method 1

a resistance device connected to the first frame member, where the resistance device includes a rotating fan

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAerodynamic drag: Drag

Implementation Method 2

the second end of the first frame member is pivotally connected to the first end of the second frame member at a pivot axle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical pivoting: Hinge

Implementation Method 3

the convex surface of the contoured surface of the tab may contact the concave surface of the engaging surface of the tab

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20260000933A1Rowing Exercise Machine
Publication Date: 2026.01.01 COULTER VENTURES LLC
  • US20260000933A1 patent drawing
  • US20260000933A1 patent drawing
  • US20260000933A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A rowing exercise machine includes a first frame member and a second frame member that are pivotally connected to each other to have a use position and a storage position. The rowing exercise machine may include a resistance device connected to the first frame member and a seat that is slidably engaged with the second frame member. A locking assembly may be used to fixedly secure the first frame member and the second frame member when the rowing exercise machine is in the use position.