Inflatable Stretching Device with Force Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system that assists users in performing passive stretches without additional human assistance, being simple, portable, and accommodating different body sizes, as existing solutions are often inconvenient, costly, and limited by availability of physical therapists.
Innovation Solution
A stretching device comprising an inflatable component affixed to a movable platform with sensors to measure force, a support for positional adjustment, and a biofeedback component to provide contemporaneous biological information, allowing users to control the degree of inflation and perform passive stretches independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If passive stretching is performed with assistance of a physical therapist, then stretching effectiveness is improved, but cost and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching device enables users to perform passive stretching independently without requiring a physical therapist. The device includes an inflatable component that automatically applies stretching force and sensors that detect user feedback, allowing the system to self-regulate and provide effective stretching exercises at home
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates sensors that detect force applied to the pressure plate and provide feedback to control the inflation of the inflatable component. This closed-loop feedback system ensures the stretching force is appropriately adjusted based on user response, maintaining effectiveness while eliminating the need for professional supervision
2Productivity
If physical therapy sessions are conducted regularly, then stretching benefits are maximized, but availability and accessibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows users to independently perform stretching exercises multiple times per week without depending on the availability of physical therapists. Users can access the device anywhere and schedule stretching sessions according to their own convenience, eliminating geographical and temporal limitations
Solution Approach 2:
The stretching device is designed to be portable and adaptable to different users and locations. The inflatable component can be positioned at various heights and angles to accommodate different body types and stretching needs, making it universally applicable for various stretching routines
3Ease of operation
If an inflatable component is used to apply stretching force, then ease of use is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses an inflatable component filled with air to provide stretching force. The pneumatic system is controlled by a pump and valve mechanism that can be manually or automatically operated, providing smooth and adjustable stretching pressure without requiring complex mechanical actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes a control mechanism that automatically regulates the inflation based on sensor feedback. The system self-adjusts the inflation level to provide appropriate stretching force, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of complex mechanical controls
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 perform regular passive stretches conveniently and effectively, regardless of location or availability of physical therapists, promoting flexibility, injury prevention, and recovery, while being portable and adaptable to various body sizes.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable component (322) affixed to a moveable platform (330), wherein the inflatable component (322) is configured to apply force against a limb of a user placed thereon
Implementation Method 2
a pressure plate (336) mounted on the moveable platform (330) comprising a plurality of sensors (337) that are configured to measure a force that is applied to the pressure plate (336)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A system for assisting in the performance of passive stretches includes a stretching device and a control mechanism. The stretching device includes an inflatable component. The control mechanism enables a user to control the degree of inflation of the inflatable component. The stretching device may optionally include one or more user contact surfaces attached to an outer layer or formed within an outer layer. The system may also include a support for supporting the stretching device at a particular height. The support may compressively hold the stretching device at the particular height when the inflatable component is inflated.