Rotatable Grip Exercise Device with Mode Selector

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current exercise devices are inadequate for the non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylopathy) and other upper limb rehabilitation needs, lacking adjustable resistance and versatile configurations.

Innovation Solution

An exercise device with a rotatable hand grip, mode selector, and tensioning means using compression springs to provide adjustable resistance, allowing for multiple grip configurations and optional weight attachment for varied exercises.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a rotatable grip is provided for exercise movements, then the device enables rehabilitation exercises for tennis elbow, but the grip rotation may cause instability or lack of support during exercise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexercise configuration optionsVSAvoidgrip stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The device employs a mode selector mechanism that allows dynamic switching between two grip configurations: a rotatable configuration for rehabilitation exercises and a locked fixed configuration for stability. The mode selector enables the user to transition between these states, providing both adaptability for different exercise phases and stability when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Force

If tensioning means with compression springs are added to provide resistance, then the device offers adjustable resistance for rehabilitation, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance forceVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compression springs are positioned to automatically engage and disengage based on the grip rotation and mode selector position. The spring mechanism self-regulates the resistance force based on the exercise configuration, eliminating the need for complex external adjustment mechanisms while providing variable resistance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a mode selector means is provided to switch between configurations, then the device offers versatile exercise options, but the ease of operation is reduced due to additional controls

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration optionsVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mode selector means is integrated with the grip structure itself, combining the configuration switching function with the existing grip components. This integration allows the user to change configurations as a natural part of the exercise motion, reducing the cognitive and physical burden of separate control operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 device effectively supports non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation of tennis elbow and other upper limb conditions by offering adjustable resistance and versatile exercise options, enhancing user engagement and rehabilitation outcomes.

Implementation Method 1

The tensioning means comprises a first compression spring positioned within the main body. The first compression spring compresses during rotation of the grip to provide resistance.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring compression: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3170535B1An exercise device
Publication Date: 2020.06.10 LEWIS JEREMY SIMON
  • EP3170535B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3170535B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3170535B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides an exercise device for use in the non-surgical treatment tennis elbow or lateral epicondylopathy (LE) and for post-surgical rehabilitation and other upper limb rehabilitation, the exercise device comprising a main body, and at least one gripping means provided on the main body, wherein the or each gripping means comprises a rotatable hand grip and mode selector means, wherein the mode selector means is operable to move the gripping means from a first configuration in which the rotatable grip is rotatable relative to the main body and a second configuration in which the grip is in a fixed position and not rotatable relative to the main body, and further wherein a static or locked grip is provided on the main body such that a user may hold the exercise device with both hands, one hand holding the rotatable grip and the other hand holding the static grip to perform exercises.