Gymnastic Ring Suspension with Spring-Loaded Strap Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspension devices for exercise rings and handles are expensive, require a high ceiling for adjustment, pose a hazard with loose straps, and are difficult to adjust accurately and quickly, especially when transitioning between different exercises.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a cam buckle, a spring-loaded spool, and numbered marks on the strap for quick and accurate height adjustment, with the spool automatically retracting the extra strap out of the way, allowing independent adjustment of each ring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple strap looped over the ceiling rafter is used for mounting rings, then the device cost is reduced and installation is simplified, but the extra strap hangs in the way of the user creating a safety hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the excess strap from the operational area by routing it through a guide pulley and securing it to the frame. This removes the hazardous loose strap while maintaining the simple mounting structure, thus resolving the contradiction between cost reduction and safety hazard elimination
Solution Approach 2:
The guide pulley acts as an intermediary component that redirects the excess strap away from the user's path. This simple mechanical element solves the safety hazard without adding significant cost or complexity to the overall system
2Device complexity
If the strap length is kept fixed with rigid arms for height adjustment, then the structure is simplified, but the ceiling height requirement increases and adjustment flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the fixed strap length system into a dynamic adjustable system using a spool mechanism. The strap can be wound onto the spool to reduce effective length, allowing the same structure to work at various ceiling heights without requiring rigid arm adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The excess strap is nested onto the spool mechanism when not in use, effectively storing the extra length within the device structure. This eliminates the need for excessive ceiling height while maintaining the ability to extend the strap when needed
3Ease of operation
If a cam buckle is used to adjust strap length, then the adjustment mechanism is simple, but the extra strap must be manually rolled up and tied which takes time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cam buckle adjustment mechanism with an automatic strap collection system. The guide pulley and frame mounting work together to automatically route and secure the excess strap, eliminating the need for manual rolling and tying while maintaining ease of adjustment
4Measurement precision
If measuring tapes or other measuring devices are used to adjust rings to the same height, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the time required and difficulty increase especially when exhausted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates numbered marks directly onto the strap itself, making the strap serve dual purposes: both suspension and measurement reference. This eliminates the need for separate measuring devices while maintaining precision, and the marks remain visible and accessible even when the user is exhausted
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 rapid, precise adjustment of exercise ring heights, safely managing the extra strap to prevent hazards and streamline workout transitions without the need for additional measuring tools.
Implementation Method 1
A power spring is wound about the shaft. One end of the spring is attached to the spool. The other end is attached to the frame. When the strap is pulled out as far as it will go, the spring is at its minimum tension. When the cam buckle is disengaged the spring retracts and rotates the spool winding up the strap.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for suspending gymnastic rings and handles is described. The device has a power spring to automatically retract a strap onto a spool. There is a cam buckle that holds the strap in place at a desired height. There are marks on the strap to use as reference to easily match the rings to the same height. The device is typically used as a pair, one device for each ring. Many handle and bars can be attached.