Portable Massage Table Strap Support for Foot Massage Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Massage practitioners using foot-based techniques face challenges with balance and fatigue due to the need for structural support, often relying on bulky apparatuses or overhead systems that are not portable or adaptable.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a flexible member affixed to a portable massage table, with clasps to secure the flexible member and prevent the table from collapsing, allowing practitioners to maintain balance and apply force effectively during foot-based massages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If an overhead rope or bulky apparatus is used for structural support, then balance and stability are improved, but portability and ease of setup are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the support function from complex overhead apparatus and relocates it to the massage table itself through legs with adjustable feet. This removes the need for separate overhead ropes or bulky support structures, achieving stability while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The massage table is divided into modular components including adjustable legs with individual feet that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows each leg to provide localized support, achieving overall table stability without requiring a complex monolithic support structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed rigid support structure is used, then stability is improved, but adaptability and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable legs with movable feet that can be positioned at different heights and angles. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the table to adapt to various surfaces and portability requirements while maintaining structural stability during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure parameters (leg angles, foot positions, height) are made variable rather than fixed. This allows the table to be configured for stability during massage sessions and then adjusted or folded for portable storage and transport.
3Ease of operation
If overhead bars or ropes are used for support, then balance assistance is improved, but ease of operation and accessibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The massage table's own structure (legs and feet) provides the balance assistance that would otherwise require separate overhead support systems. The table serves itself by incorporating stabilization features directly into its support structure, eliminating the need for external ropes or bars.
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
Enhances balance and reduces fatigue for massage practitioners by allowing them to use tensional force in addition to gravitational force, while maintaining portability and adaptability of the massage table.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible member affixed to patient supporting surface to assist with balance while employing the foot of the massage practitioner to deliver force to the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A method of administering a massage comprising employing, by a massage practitioner, a foot of the massage practitioner to deliver force to a patient that is lying on a patient supporting device, and utilizing, by the massage practitioner, a flexible member affixed to patient supporting surface to assist with balance while employing the foot of the massage practitioner to deliver force to the patient. An apparatus for adapting a portable massage table comprising an elongated body extending in a longitudinal direction and at least one clasp attached to the elongated body. The elongated body has a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional configuration. The at least one clasp is adaptable for securing a flexible member to the elongated body.