Retractable Exercise Bench Mechanism for Compact Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Weightlifting benches and rowing machines often occupy significant space and can be cumbersome, posing a challenge for users who need to save room while still having access to exercise equipment.
Innovation Solution
A retractable exercise system with a base assembly, main beam, and distal leg that can pivot and extend, allowing the system to transition between upright and extended positions, utilizing a flexible element and pin mechanism for automatic leg deployment and locking, enabling compact storage and versatile exercise configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional weightlifting bench is used, then exercise functionality is provided, but space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bench is designed with a retractable main beam that can pivot between an extended exercise position and a retracted storage position. The distal leg mechanism dynamically adjusts to support the bench in both configurations, allowing the same structure to serve exercise功能的 simultaneously minimize space occupation when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The bench transitions from a two-dimensional flat storage configuration to a three-dimensional extended exercise configuration. By utilizing vertical and horizontal space through pivoting motion, the bench achieves full exercise functionality only when needed, effectively managing space occupation across different operational states.
2Area of stationary object
If the bench is made retractable to save space, then space occupation is reduced, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bench is divided into distinct functional segments: the base assembly with pivot mechanism, the main beam with distal leg, and the bench surface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall retractable mechanism, as each segment handles a particular aspect of the transformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal leg acts as an intermediary mechanism between the pivoting main beam and the ground. It automatically deploys and locks into position to support the extended bench, then retracts to allow compact storage. This intermediary component simplifies the overall system by providing automatic mechanical support without requiring complex active control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the main beam is extended for exercise, then exercise functionality is enabled, but stability requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The distal leg mechanism is designed to automatically deploy and lock into position when the main beam is extended, providing self-supporting stability without requiring external assistance or complex locking systems. The geometry of the mechanism ensures that the leg naturally assumes a stable configuration under load.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot connections and joint design incorporate curved surfaces and rounded interfaces that distribute loads more evenly across connection points. This curvature allows for smoother load transitions and reduces stress concentration, enhancing overall structural stability during the dynamic extension and retraction cycles.
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 space-saving solution that allows for easy conversion between storage and exercise modes, enhancing usability and reducing the footprint of exercise equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a pin adapted to provide a temporary connection between the main beam and the base assembly
Implementation Method 2
the extended position defined by the longitudinal axis of the main beam at an angle of less than forty-five degrees with the horizontal, wherein the extended position is maintained by the distal leg in contact with the ground
Implementation Method 3
a flexible element attached between the base shaft and the main distal shaft whereby the flexible element couples the rotational motion of the main beam to the rotational motion of the distal leg
Data Source
AI summary
A free-standing retractable exercise system. The exercise system includes one or more exercise benches that extend away from an upright position while the exercise system is in use and retract into the upright position while being stored.