Negative Tilting Squat Machine with Adjustable Angle Actuator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise equipment fails to effectively train users for explosive power from a crouched lineman position, primarily focusing on endurance rather than explosive force development, and does not allow for resistance squats at various angles.
Innovation Solution
A negative tilting squat machine with a base, squat apparatus, and linear angle actuator that allows users to perform squats at adjustable angles, featuring a resistance actuator with a ball screw powered by an electric motor, load cell for force feedback, and adjustable handles and shoulder pads to simulate a football stance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional squat machines are used, then users can perform squats with resistance, but the machine cannot adjust squat angles to simulate football stances
Solution Approach 1:
The squat machine incorporates adjustable angle mechanisms that allow the squatting platform to be positioned at various angles (e.g., 0°, 15°, 30°) to simulate different football stances. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the machine to adapt to different training requirements while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Power
If resistance actuators provide high force output, then explosive power is improved, but endurance training is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance actuator operates in periodic cycles, alternating between high-force resistance phases for explosive power development and lower-force or assisted phases that allow for endurance training. This periodic operation enables the same machine to serve dual purposes for different training objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance actuator can dynamically change its output parameters (force magnitude, duration, frequency) based on training requirements. For explosive power, high force and short duration are applied; for endurance, lower force with longer duration is provided, allowing one machine to address both training needs.
3Ease of operation
If fixed squat angles are used, then machine simplicity is maintained, but functional strength for football is not developed
Solution Approach 1:
The angle adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete, pre-configured positions (e.g., 0°, 15°, 30°) that can be easily selected and locked. This segmentation maintains operational simplicity by providing fixed, pre-determined angles rather than continuous adjustment, while still offering sufficient variety for effective football-specific training.
4Power
If traditional linear motion squats are used, then exercise simplicity is maintained, but explosive power from crouched positions is not trained
Solution Approach 1:
The squat machine transitions from traditional linear vertical motion to multi-dimensional motion by introducing angular components. The squatting platform can be positioned at various angles and tilted during the squat movement, adding rotational and angular dimensions to the exercise. This enables training of explosive power from crouched positions while maintaining exercise simplicity through automated guidance.
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
Enables users to train for explosive power by adjusting squat angles and providing controlled resistance, effectively engaging the posterior chain and core muscles, enhancing strength and stability similar to football stances.
Implementation Method 1
The resistance actuator may include a ball screw. The ball screw may be connected to the squatting device. The ball screw may be powered by an electric motor, like a servo motor, for moving the squatting device along the center post.
Implementation Method 2
The load cell may be configured to provide force feedback to the user of an applied force.
Data Source
AI summary
A negative tilting squat machine includes a base, a squat apparatus, and a linear angle actuator. The squat apparatus is pivotally mounted on the base. The squat apparatus includes a center post with a squatting device configured to slide thereon and allow the user to face the center post during exercise. A resistance actuator is configured to produce a force against the squatting device. Handles, shoulder pads, or a combination thereof are attached to the squatting device to provide the force produced from the resistance actuator against the squatting device to hands of the user gripping the handles, shoulders of the user pressing on the shoulder pads, or a combination thereof. A linear angle actuator is configured to adjust a squat angle between the base and the squat apparatus.