Modular Yoga Props with Magnetic and Peg Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yoga and fitness props lack versatility and customizability, often being bulky and infrequently used, and they do not easily accommodate individual user needs or preferences.
Innovation Solution
A set of eleven connectable props of six different types, made of a lightweight wood frame ply combo, which can be easily combined using a magnetic pair system and peg system to create customizable configurations suitable for various yoga and fitness practices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional yoga props are made of solid materials like cork or solid wood, then they provide sufficient structural strength and rigidity, but they become bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The yoga prop uses a composite structure combining a hollow outer shell made of cork or foam material with an internal frame structure made of rigid material. This composite design provides the structural strength of solid materials while reducing the overall weight and bulk, allowing the prop to maintain rigidity during yoga poses without being excessively heavy or bulky.
2Device complexity
If yoga props are designed as single fixed configurations, then they are simple in structure, but they lack versatility and cannot accommodate individual user needs
Solution Approach 1:
The yoga prop is divided into multiple detachable segments or components that can be assembled in different configurations. The hollow shell is segmented into sections that can be connected or disconnected, allowing users to create various shapes and sizes suitable for different yoga poses and individual anatomical needs, thereby increasing versatility while maintaining manageable structural complexity.
3Weight of moving object
If yoga props are made of foam materials, then they are lightweight, but they compress under body weight leading to loss of balance
Solution Approach 1:
The prop combines a hollow foam or cork outer shell with an internal rigid frame structure. The foam shell provides lightweight properties and comfort, while the internal frame prevents compression under body weight, maintaining structural stability and preventing loss of balance during yoga poses.
4Ease of operation
If yoga props absorb moisture, then they can be gripped easily, but they cannot be easily cleaned and may harbor bacteria
Solution Approach 1:
The yoga prop uses a hollow shell design with a smooth, non-porous outer surface that repels moisture rather than absorbing it. This smooth surface can be easily wiped clean with disinfectants, preventing bacterial growth while the hollow structure provides grip through its shape and texture without relying on moisture absorption.
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 versatile and customizable solution for yoga and fitness practices, allowing users to create specific configurations for support, balance, and alignment, while being lightweight, easy to clean, and durable.
Implementation Method 1
The props may be connected by a pair of magnets
Data Source
AI summary
A yoga block system that is comprised of a plurality of props wherein the props are configured to be releasably secured in order to facilitate creation of a multitude of configured props having various shapes and sizes. The prop of the present invention is provided in various shapes and sizes. At least one surface of the prop includes a magnet secured therein. The magnet can be secured so as to be in one of three positions; flush, recessed or extended. The magnets of the props are aligned in a pattern so as to facilitate releasable securing of a first prop to a second prop. The prop can further be configured with a peg extending outward from a surface thereof wherein the peg is operable to be inserted into a hole formed in a surface of a prop that is designed to be releasably secured thereto.