Isometric Exercise Device with Force Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Isometric exercise, which strengthens muscles through static contractions, has low adoption due to its perceived non-motive and less engaging nature, and there is a need for a less obtrusive exercise method suitable for older adults to minimize injury risk.

Innovation Solution

An isometric exercise device with a base and adjustable arm configuration that allows users to engage core muscles through isometric resistance, equipped with sensors to measure force and a graphic display for feedback, enabling customizable workouts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If isometric exercise is used to strengthen muscles, then muscle strengthening effectiveness is improved, but user engagement and motivation deteriorate due to the static and non-motive nature of the exercise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemuscle strengthening effectivenessVSAvoiduser engagement and motivation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates force sensors that measure the force applied during isometric exercise and provide real-time visual feedback through a graphic display. This feedback mechanism transforms the static, non-motive exercise into an engaging activity by showing users their performance metrics, making the exercise more motivating while maintaining its muscle-strengthening effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Strength

If traditional isometric exercise equipment is used, then muscle isolation and strengthening are improved, but device complexity and obtrusiveness increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemuscle isolation and strengtheningVSAvoiddevice complexity and obtrusiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a base for stability, a body for structural support, and an adjustable arm for exercise positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while keeping the overall device simple and non-obtrusive, maintaining effective muscle isolation without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The arm of the device is designed to be adjustable, allowing users to modify the position and angle according to their specific exercise needs and body dimensions. This dynamic adjustability enhances muscle isolation effectiveness while keeping the device simple and adaptable rather than fixed and complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If isometric exercise is used for senior citizens, then injury risk reduction is improved, but exercise effectiveness may deteriorate due to reduced muscle mass and strength

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinjury riskVSAvoidexercise effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The force sensors and graphic display provide senior citizens with clear visual feedback on the force they are applying during exercise. This helps them maintain proper form and intensity levels, ensuring exercise effectiveness while minimizing injury risk by preventing excessive or improper loading.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The device allows for adjustment of exercise parameters such as arm position and angle, enabling senior citizens to modify the exercise intensity and configuration to match their reduced muscle mass and strength levels, thereby maintaining effectiveness while minimizing injury risk.

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 effectively strengthens core muscles through isometric exercises, providing a safe and engaging workout experience that can be tailored to individual goals, promoting physical fitness and health with reduced injury risk.

Implementation Method 1

The exercise device further comprises a sensor configured to measure force exerted on the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce sensing: Force

Data Source

PatentUS10384092B1Isometric exercise device
Publication Date: 2019.08.20 KARAPETIAN GREGORY
  • US10384092B1 patent drawing
  • US10384092B1 patent drawing
  • US10384092B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an exercise apparatus and method of use therein, for improving the physical fitness and health of an individual by isometric exercise. Specifically, the present disclosure provides an exercise device utilizing the benefits of isometric exercise, specifically for the strengthening and/or exercising the core muscles of the body.