Modular Exercise Mat Layers for Cushioning and Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise mats are cumbersome to transport, lack support for isolated body parts, and can become slippery due to perspiration, especially when made of non-breathable materials.
Innovation Solution
A modular exercise mat design with a top layer featuring a woven or sewn textured surface and a removable bottom layer, secured by fasteners, providing customizable cushioning and grip, and incorporating materials like polyurethane, polymer fibers, and biomaterials for lightweight and supportive properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional exercise mats are made thick to provide adequate cushioning for body parts under pressure, then cushioning support is improved, but the mats become heavy and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise mat is divided into a top layer and a bottom layer that can be separated. The bottom layer provides cushioning support when needed, while the top layer can be used independently for transport, allowing users to carry only the essential lightweight top layer for travel while having full cushioning support at home.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If exercise mats are made of non-breathable material like rubber to provide durability, then mat durability is improved, but the surface becomes slippery when wet from perspiration
Solution Approach 1:
The top layer is made with an open cell structure that allows breathability and sweat absorption. This porous structure maintains grip stability by wicking away moisture from the surface, preventing the slippery condition that occurs with non-breathable materials while still providing durable exercise mat performance.
3Ease of operation
If exercise mats use open cell structure to absorb and dissipate sweat for maintaining grip, then grip stability is improved, but the mat becomes less durable and breaks down quickly
Solution Approach 1:
Different layers of the exercise mat have different properties optimized for their specific functions. The top layer has an open cell structure for sweat absorption and grip stability, while the bottom layer provides durable cushioning support. This local differentiation allows each layer to excel at its primary function without compromising overall mat durability.
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 design allows for easy transport, enhanced body support, and reduced slipping, ensuring stability and comfort during exercises by adapting to user needs through varying weave or seam patterns and materials.
Implementation Method 1
the bottom layer having a thickness to provide cushioning
Implementation Method 2
a fastener configured to secure the top layer and the bottom layer together, wherein when the top layer and the bottom layers are aligned and adjacent, the fastener secures the top and bottom layers of the exercise mat in close proximity and prevents dissociation
Implementation Method 3
a top layer comprising a plurality of adjoining pieces... a woven or sewn textured surface
Data Source
AI summary
Examples of an exercise mat and methods for making same are disclosed. The exercise mat comprises a top layer comprising a plurality of pieces put together to form the top layer of the mat, a bottom cushioning layer removably attached to the top layer, and a fastener configured to secure together the top layer and the bottom layer of the exercise mat. The plurality of pieces of the top layer can be woven or sewn together creating a textured surface on the top layer of the mat.