Rotating Beam Resistance Apparatus with Elastic Bands

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional weight resistance exercise machines are limited in the range of motion and types of exercises they allow, and they provide resistance only based on the weight used, lacking versatility and the ability to add additional resistance effectively.

Innovation Solution

A resistance exercise apparatus featuring a weighted object, an elongate beam, engagement members, and a frame, where the beam rotates with the weighted object, allowing for varied exercises and adjustable resistance through the use of elastic bands and cords, enabling additional resistance to be added via the momentum of the weighted object.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional weight resistance exercise machines are used, then resistance is provided based on the weight used, but the range of motion and types of exercises are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of motion and types of exercisesVSAvoidmachine structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The exercise apparatus is designed with a universal beam and weighted object system that can perform multiple types of exercises including chest press, lat pull-down, and leg extension. The apparatus provides adaptability through adjustable cord attachment points and interchangeable weighted objects, allowing one machine to serve multiple exercise functions without requiring separate dedicated machines for each exercise type.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Force

If traditional weight machines are used, then resistance corresponds only to the amount of weight used, but additional resistance cannot be added effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance amountVSAvoidresistance adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus employs dynamic resistance through elastic bands that work in conjunction with weighted objects. The elastic bands provide variable resistance that changes throughout the range of motion, and the system allows users to adjust resistance by changing cord attachment points on the beam, selecting different weighted objects, or modifying the elastic band tension, thereby providing adaptable force resistance beyond fixed weight limitations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed weight system is used, then the resistance is constant, but the ability to modify resistance intensity is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance modification capabilityVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The resistance modification system is segmented into multiple independent adjustment mechanisms: (1) interchangeable weighted objects with different masses, (2) adjustable cord attachment points at various locations along the beam, and (3) selectable elastic bands with different tension characteristics. This segmentation allows users to modify resistance intensity by adjusting individual components rather than requiring complex integrated adjustment mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while providing versatile resistance modification capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 apparatus provides a wide range of exercises and adjustable resistance, allowing users to increase the intensity of workouts by modifying the weight, cord elasticity, and tension, offering a more versatile and dynamic resistance experience compared to traditional machines.

Implementation Method 1

The resistance apparatus further includes a first elastic band, a first handle connected to a proximal end of the first elastic band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

allowing additional resistance to be added using the momentum of a weighted object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS8932187B1Resistance exercise apparatus
Publication Date: 2015.01.13 VITTONE LARRY W
  • US8932187B1 patent drawing
  • US8932187B1 patent drawing
  • US8932187B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A resistance exercise apparatus is disclosed including a weighted object, an elongate beam, a first engagement member, a second engagement member, a frame, a first bearing and a second bearing. The elongate beam extends in and through weighted object such that when the beam rotates about its lengthwise axis, the weighted object rotates with the beam. Proximal ends of the engagement members are connected to the beam and include a cavity defined and a slot. The frame includes support extensions supporting the bearings, the bearings allowing the beam to rotate along its lengthwise axis within the bearings.