Modular Exercise Reformer Assembly for Compact Resistance Training

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing reformer devices for resistance training are often bulky, heavy, and expensive, limiting their accessibility and usability.

Innovation Solution

A modular exercise system comprising a glide module with a chassis and sliding extremity platform, resistance bands, and an exercise bar module, which can be configured to provide resistance training through a movable carriage, allowing for full-body exercises and adjustable resistance levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional reformer devices are used for resistance training, then effective exercise function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky, heavy, and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexercise functionVSAvoiddevice weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The reformer device is divided into separate modular components including a glide module with carriage, resistance bands, and an exercise bar module with base/stand. Each module can be independently configured, assembled, or stored, eliminating the need for a single bulky structure while maintaining full exercise functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components serve multiple functions: the glide module provides both sliding resistance exercises and can be configured with the exercise bar module for standing exercises; the resistance bands provide variable resistance for different muscle groups; the base/stand provides both support for the exercise bar and stable footing for users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional reformer devices are used for resistance training, then effective exercise function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky, heavy, and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexercise functionVSAvoiddevice volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The reformer device is divided into separate modular components including a glide module with carriage, resistance bands, and an exercise bar module with base/stand. Each module can be independently configured, assembled, or stored, eliminating the need for a single bulky structure while maintaining full exercise functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The glide module with carriage can be stored within or alongside the exercise bar module when not in use. The resistance bands can be coiled and stored on the base/stand or in compartments, allowing the entire system to occupy minimal space when disassembled while providing full functionality when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional reformer devices are used for resistance training, then effective exercise function is achieved, but the device becomes expensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexercise functionVSAvoiddevice cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The reformer device is divided into separate modular components including a glide module with carriage, resistance bands, and an exercise bar module with base/stand. Each module can be independently configured, assembled, or stored, eliminating the need for a single bulky structure while maintaining full exercise functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses inexpensive resistance bands instead of costly mechanical spring systems. The bands can be easily replaced or swapped for different resistance levels, and the modular components can be manufactured from simple materials like wooden boards for the carriage and base, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining exercise effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 system provides a compact, versatile, and cost-effective solution for resistance training, enabling a wide range of exercises including yoga and Pilates, with adjustable resistance and customizable configurations for various muscle groups, promoting physical and mental wellbeing.

Implementation Method 1

resistance bands configured to be coupled between a docking structure of the chassis and the sliding extremity platform

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12502575B2Exercise system assembly and use

Publication Date: 2025.12.23 CORE 46 IP LLC

AI summary

A method of using an exercise system involves providing a base plate module including a first panel, a second panel, and a resistance band docking module disposed between the first panel and the second panel with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the base plate module. The method further involves providing an exercise bar module including a bar support base, a standing platform fixed to the bar support base, and an exercise bar coupled to the bar support base. The method further involves sliding the first panel of the base plate module at least partially under the standing platform of the exercise bar module.