Rotating Climbing Training Device with Pivot Bearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional finger and hand strength training devices for climbers, known as hangboards or fingerboards, provide only static loading, which is less efficient and less motivating compared to cyclically varying loads.
Innovation Solution
A training device that rotates about a vertical axis, allowing users to swing back and forth, with optional motor support and adjustable rotation angle, providing a dynamic and more efficient workout.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the training device is statically attached to the ceiling or door frame, then the structure is simple and stable, but the training efficiency is low due to static loading
Solution Approach 1:
The training device is transformed from a static structure to a dynamic one by introducing a rotation axis that allows the support with grip profiles to rotate back and forth. This dynamic capability enables cyclic variation in force application to the fingers, significantly increasing training efficiency compared to static hanging, while the rotation mechanism keeps the device relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The training device implements periodic action through cyclic rotation around the vertical axis, creating alternating phases of increased and decreased force load on the fingers. The user performs swinging movements that generate periodic variation in gravitational force application, with force load being lowest near the top dead center and highest near the vertical point, enhancing muscle engagement through rhythmic loading
2Productivity
If the training device allows free swinging movement, then the training efficiency increases, but the stability of the device decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device achieves a balance between dynamics and stability by allowing controlled rotation around a fixed vertical axis rather than free movement in all directions. The rotation axis provides a stable reference point while enabling the necessary dynamic swinging motion for effective training
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates friction in the bearings as a preliminary damping mechanism that naturally limits the swinging amplitude and prevents excessive movement. This passive damping approach maintains stability without requiring active control systems, allowing efficient training while preventing dangerous instability
3Ease of operation
If motorized assistance is added to support the swinging movement, then the ease of operation increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex motorized assistance with a simpler mechanical approach using friction in bearings to support and control the swinging movement. This mechanical substitution maintains ease of operation while avoiding the complexity of motors, sensors, and control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses the user's own body movements and the gravitational force to generate the swinging motion, with friction in the bearings providing passive support and damping. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external power sources or complex control mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while enabling effective training
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 dynamic loading increases training efficiency and motivation by varying force application on the fingers and upper limbs, enhancing muscle engagement and user engagement through a playful element.
Implementation Method 1
the grip profiles can rotate freely (except for friction in the bearings) around a defined axis of rotation relative to the mounting element(s)
Implementation Method 2
it is also possible for this swinging back and forth movement to be at least supported by a drive unit of the training device
Implementation Method 3
the force load being lowest near the top dead center of the swinging movement (reversal point) and highest near the vertical point (bottom low point)
Implementation Method 4
this type of swinging (compared to purely static hanging) leads to a cyclical variation in the force application to the fingers
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Training device (1) for climbers, comprising: - at least two grip profiles (2, 3) designed for the hands of a human user hanging from the grip profiles (2, 3), wherein the grip profiles (2, 3) are arranged on a common support (4), preferably in the form of a board- or plate-shaped element, or are otherwise rigidly connected to each other at least at their horizontal distance, - at least one, preferably two, preferably spaced apart from the common support (4) for mounting the training device (1) on a fixed structure, wherein the grip profiles (2, 3) can rotate with respect to the mounting element(s) (5, 6) by means of a pivot bearing (9), wherein the position of the pivot axis (9) with respect to the mounting elements (5, 6) is fixed during use.