Inelastic Exercise Device With Frictional Anchor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Resistance exercise devices with elastic bands are inconsistent and limited in their usefulness due to varying user sizes and strengths, while inelastic strap devices are restrictive and only suitable for a limited range of exercises.

Innovation Solution

An exercise device with an inelastic elongated member supported by an anchor that allows for a limited range of longitudinal motion, featuring grips and a frictional support mechanism to adjust length and provide resistance, enabling a wide range of exercises for various users.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If elastic bands are used for resistance exercise, then the device can provide resistance force, but the resistance becomes inconsistent and increases with displacement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance forceVSAvoidresistance consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameter of the resistance element from elastic (spring-like) to inelastic (string-like), fundamentally altering how resistance is generated. This eliminates the nonlinear force-displacement relationship of elastic bands while maintaining the ability to provide consistent resistance throughout the range of motion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If inelastic straps are used for resistance exercise, then the resistance becomes consistent, but the device is limited to a restricted number of exercises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance consistencyVSAvoidexercise variety
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic adjustability to the inelastic strap system through multiple anchor points and adjustable attachment mechanisms. This allows the device to adapt to different exercise types, user sizes, and resistance requirements while maintaining the consistency benefits of inelastic material

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the resistance device with universal applicability through adjustable length, multiple anchor positions, and configurable attachment points. This enables a single device to perform numerous different exercises and accommodate various user needs, transforming a specialized tool into a multi-functional exercise system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If elastic bands are used, then the device can accommodate different users, but the resistance characteristics depend on band length and elasticity variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser accommodationVSAvoidband consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent switches from elastic material properties to inelastic material properties, eliminating the manufacturing variability inherent in elastic bands. Inelastic straps provide predictable, consistent behavior that is not dependent on material elasticity variations, while adjustability compensates for different user requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Force

If elastic bands are used, then the device can provide resistance, but the bands tend to snap back when released

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance forceVSAvoidsnap back effect
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental mechanical property of the resistance element from elastic to inelastic, eliminating the snap-back effect. Inelastic material does not store and release elastic energy, preventing the dangerous rebound motion while maintaining continuous resistance during exercise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 device provides consistent resistance and versatility, allowing for a complete workout by adjusting length and limiting motion to accommodate different users and exercises, enhancing usability and safety.

Implementation Method 1

The exercise device includes an inelastic elongated member having grips, an anchor attachable to the structure and having a frictional support for the inelastic elongated member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2195096B1Inelastic exercise device having a limited range
Publication Date: 2018.11.07 FITNESS ANYWHERE LLC
  • EP2195096B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2195096B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2195096B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

An exercise device having many advantageous features is described, including the ability to provide a combination of grips to the user, and the ability to easily mount the device to a wall. The exercise device includes a mechanism that permits a limited range of longitudinally motion for an elongated member having grips. The mechanism permits a user to balance while exercising, and provides support resulting from excessive motion of the exercise device.