Pivotable-Back Stretching Device With Dynamic Push-Pull Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretching devices are limited in functionality and often require manual operation or are specialized for specific environments, lacking versatility for use in various settings.
Innovation Solution
A stretching device with a pivotable back and a linear actuator that can operate in pushing or pulling configurations, allowing for versatile stretching operations, including a seat that rests on the floor for unsupervised use in residential environments, and optional accessories for different stretching maneuvers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stretching device is designed with manual operation only, then the device complexity is reduced, but the functionality and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates an actuator that can dynamically switch between pushing and pulling configurations, allowing the same mechanical structure to perform multiple stretching functions. The actuator's movable piston transitions between extended and retracted positions to change the device's operational mode, enabling versatile stretching operations without requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretching device is designed as a universal machine that can perform multiple stretching maneuvers through a single integrated structure. The actuator mechanism serves multiple purposes: it provides pushing motion in one configuration and pulling motion in another, eliminating the need for separate specialized devices for different stretching needs.
2Volume of moving object
If the seat is supported by a floor surface, then the device size is minimized, but the stability and support during stretching operations may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The seat is positioned at floor level, placing the user in an ergonomic position where the floor surface provides natural support. This configuration allows the user's body weight to be naturally supported by the floor rather than requiring the device to bear the entire weight, reducing the device's structural requirements while maintaining stability during stretching operations.
3Ease of operation
If the actuator operates in pushing configuration with piston coupled to back, then pivotal pushing motion is achieved, but the pulling configuration requires decoupling and retraction without pivotal motion
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator employs a dynamic coupling mechanism that automatically transitions between pushing and pulling configurations based on the piston's position. When the piston extends, it couples to the back to enable pivotal pushing motion; when the piston retracts, the coupling disengages to allow pulling motion without pivotal movement. This dynamic adaptation simplifies operation by eliminating manual configuration switching.
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 multifunctional stretching operations in various environments, including residential settings, with a compact design that supports user weight through floor contact, enhancing flexibility and muscle relaxation.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator disposed within the conduit and having a piston that translates with respect to the channel
Implementation Method 2
the back being pivotable with respect to the base... extension of the piston causes a pivotal pushing motion of the back relative to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A stretching device includes a base having a conduit that defines a channel, a back that is pivotable with respect to the base, and an actuator disposed within the conduit. The actuator may be a linear actuator having a piston that translates with respect to the channel and that is coupled to the back when the stretching device is in a pushing configuration and decoupled from the back when the stretching device is in a pulling configuration. A controller operably coupled to the actuator is configured to direct the actuator to extend and retract the piston. When the actuator is in the pushing configuration, extension of the piston causes a pivotal pushing motion of the back relative to the base, and, when the actuator is in the pulling configuration, the piston translates within the channel without causing pivotal motion of the back relative to the base.