Hook-and-handle Gripper for Neutral Grip on Exercise Bars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fitness equipment, such as pull-up bars and barbells, do not allow for a neutral grip, which is considered the safest and strongest grip for many users, and specialized equipment like Swiss barbells are rare and expensive, while exercises like deadlifts are difficult with them.
Innovation Solution
A gripper device comprising a hook, protective layer, and handle that allows for a Swiss grip or non-supinated/non-pronated grip on standard exercise equipment, with adjustable angles and removable attachments for varied grip options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard pull-up bars and barbells are used, then the equipment is simple and inexpensive, but users cannot perform exercises with a neutral grip which is safer and stronger
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the bar into multiple grip sections with different orientations. The first bar portion allows supinated grip, the second bar portion allows pronated grip, and the third bar portion allows neutral grip, enabling users to switch between different grip types on the same equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a spatial dimension to the bar by creating portions that extend at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis. The third bar portion is offset from the longitudinal axis, providing a neutral grip option that was previously unavailable on standard straight bars.
2Ease of operation
If Swiss barbells are used to enable neutral grip, then users can perform exercises with neutral grip, but the equipment becomes extremely rare and very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple grip functions into a single bar structure. By incorporating portions with different orientations (supinated, pronated, and neutral), the bar becomes a universal piece of equipment that can perform multiple grip functions, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The bar is segmented into multiple functional portions along its length, each designed for a specific grip type. This segmentation allows standard manufacturing processes to be used while creating a multi-functional device that replaces several specialized pieces of equipment.
3Ease of operation
If Swiss barbells are used for neutral grip exercises, then users can perform rows and deadlifts with neutral grip, but exercises like deadlifts become hard to perform since they are too bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The bar is divided into distinct portions with different orientations rather than using a bulky three-dimensional structure. This linear segmentation maintains a compact form factor while providing neutral grip capability through the third bar portion that is offset from the longitudinal axis.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding bulk in three dimensions, the invention uses dimensional variation along the bar's length, creating portions that extend at different angles. This approach provides neutral grip capability without increasing the overall volume or bulk of the equipment.
Data Source
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Figure 5~6a
AI summary
A gripper device for gripping a bar, the gripper device comprising a hook, a protective layer, and a handle. The hook has a first end and a second end, a first inner surface curving around a first axis and facing the first axis, and a first outer surface facing away from the first axis. The inner surface of the hook is shaped to partially curve around a bar parallel to the first axis and grip the bar. The protective layer coats the inner surface of the hook and is configured to contact the bar when the hook grips the bar. The handle is joined to the second end of the hook, such that the handle extends along a second axis located at a predetermined distance from the first axis and being at a first angle with the first.