Modular Exercise Device With Interengageable Ballast Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise devices lack versatility in configuring different training exercises or loads, as they typically require fixed mounting locations for ballast elements, limiting the range of adjustments and usability.
Innovation Solution
A modular exercise device comprising a carrier structure with multiple attachment locations and interengageable ballast elements, allowing for adjustable ballast distribution and secure attachment through threaded connections or friction fits, enabling various configurations for diverse training needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed mounting locations are used for ballast elements, then the device structure is simple, but the versatility in configuring different training exercises or loads is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment location is designed with a universal engagement structure that can accommodate multiple types of ballast elements (dumbbell bars, weight plates, cables) through a standardized interface. This allows a single attachment point to serve multiple functions and configurations, increasing versatility without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into modular components: a carrier structure with attachment locations, various interchangeable ballast elements, and engagement structures. This segmentation allows users to configure different training setups by assembling and disassembling modules, providing versatility while keeping each individual component relatively simple
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment locations are provided on the carrier structure, then the adaptability for different exercises is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple attachment locations are equipped with identical or compatible engagement structures, creating a universal system where any ballast element can be attached to any location. This standardization allows versatile configuration without requiring complex unique mechanisms at each attachment point
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment locations are designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing users to change the position and combination of ballast elements based on training needs. The engagement structures enable easy attachment and detachment, providing dynamic adaptability without permanent fixed configurations
3Adaptability or versatility
If ballast elements are made interengageable, then the configuration flexibility is improved, but the engagement structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Ballast elements are equipped with engagement structures that match the carrier structure's attachment locations, creating a universal interface system. This allows ballast elements to be attached to both the carrier and to each other, providing configuration flexibility while using standardized, relatively simple engagement mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement structure design merges the attachment function into the ballast elements themselves, rather than requiring separate attachment mechanisms. This integration provides versatile configuration capability while keeping the overall structure relatively simple by combining multiple functions into unified components
Data Source
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Figure 3~4B
Figure 5
AI summary
An exercise device (10) comprises a kit of parts comprising a carrier structure (12) and a plurality of ballast elements (20, 22), wherein the carrier structure (12) comprises a carrier body (12a) with at least two attachment locations (14a-d, 16a-d), and wherein the ballast elements (20, 22) comprise two engaging structures (20a, 20b, 22a, 22b), a first one of the engaging structures (20a, 22a) being configured for connection with an attachment location (14a-d, 16a-d), and a second one of the engaging structures (20b, 22b) being configured like an attachment location (14a-d, 16a-d) of the carrier, for connection with the first engaging structure (20a, 22a) of another ballast element.