Rotating Exercise Grip With Nested Bearing Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing exercise equipment grips are typically stationary, causing user discomfort and limiting the ability to maximize workouts.

Innovation Solution

A grip apparatus with a freely rotatable handle is designed, comprising a first annular member and a second annular member with a bearing, allowing the second annular member to rotate relative to the first, which is connected to a weight system for exercise equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a stationary grip is used in exercise equipment, then the structure is simple and stable, but user comfort is reduced and workout effectiveness is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser comfortVSAvoidgrip structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The grip apparatus transitions from a stationary structure to a dynamic one by incorporating a rotatable handle member that can freely rotate about its longitudinal axis. This dynamic element allows the handle to move with the user's hand during exercise, improving comfort and effectiveness without significantly complicating the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The grip apparatus uses a nested structure where the handle member is positioned within the grip body, and bearing races are nested within annular chambers formed by concentric annular members. This nesting approach allows multiple functional components to be integrated in a compact arrangement, adding rotation capability without proportionally increasing external dimensions or complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Productivity

If a freely rotatable handle is implemented, then workout effectiveness is maximized and user comfort is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworkout effectivenessVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bearing races serve multiple functions: they enable free rotation of the handle, provide structural support within the grip apparatus, and facilitate smooth movement during exercise. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, allowing the apparatus to achieve enhanced workout effectiveness without a proportional increase in complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The grip apparatus is segmented into distinct functional components (grip body, handle member, bearing races, annular members) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for simplified production and maintenance while enabling the complex function of free rotation. Each segment performs a specific function, and their combination achieves the overall goal of improving workout effectiveness.

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 solution provides a comfortable and adjustable grip that allows for more effective workouts by enabling free rotation of the handle, reducing user discomfort and enhancing exercise performance.

Implementation Method 1

the first annular sidewall frictionally engaging a first race of the bearing and the second annular sidewall frictionally engaging a second race of the bearing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUSRE49257E1Grip apparatus for exercise equipment and method for making thereof
Publication Date: 2022.10.25 ORBITAL ROTATION ACCESSORY INT INC
  • USRE49257E1 patent drawing
  • USRE49257E1 patent drawing
  • USRE49257E1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a grip apparatus for exercise equipment, the grip apparatus comprising: a first annular member having a first annular sidewall and a first flange extending radially inwardly from the first annular sidewall; a second annular member having a second annular sidewall and a second flange extending radially inwardlyoutwardly from the second annular sidewall, a diameter of the second annular sidewall being less than a diameter of the first annular sidewall, the second annular member being positioned within the first annular member whereby the first annular sidewall, the second annular sidewall, the first flange and the second flange define together an annular chamber; a handle member connected to the second annular sidewall; and a bearing in the annular chamber, the first annular sidewall frictionally engaging a first race of the bearing and the second annular sidewall frictionally engaging a second race of the bearing.