Multi-planar Rotational Platform with Elastic Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotational exercise and therapy devices are often expensive, mechanically complex, and lack resistive forces, posing safety hazards and limiting muscle strengthening, especially for users with inadequate balance and strength.
Innovation Solution
A multi-planar rotational platform and suspension device with a base body, roller assemblies, a motion platform assembly, elastic cords for resistance, and a handrail for safety, allowing controlled movement and resistance to enhance balance and strength training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If motorized mechanisms are used to provide rotation, then the device can provide controlled movement, but the device becomes very expensive and mechanically complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the motorized mechanism entirely from the system. Instead of using motors to drive rotation, the device uses the user's own body movements to initiate and control the rotation through friction between the user's clothing and the platform surface, thereby eliminating mechanical complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the user's own movements and energy to drive the rotation rather than requiring an external motor. The friction between the user's attire and the platform converts the user's natural motion into rotational movement, making the system self-powered and eliminating complex mechanical drive mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the platform provides near unlimited range of motion, then the device offers freedom of movement, but it presents a safety hazard for operators with inadequate balance and strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates handrails and support structures that are positioned to provide automatic support before the user loses balance. These elements create a safety net that prevents dangerous situations from developing in the first place, allowing full range of motion while preemptively counteracting potential safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes padded handrails and support elements positioned to catch or support the user before a fall or loss of balance occurs. This beforehand cushioning allows the platform to rotate through full ranges of motion while preventing safety hazards by providing support at the moment the user might otherwise lose control.
3Ease of manufacture
If the device is designed to be low-cost and simple, then it is affordable and easy to maintain, but it may lack resistive forces needed for muscle strengthening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elastic cords attached to the platform that provide resistive forces opposing the user's movements. These cords act as a simple counterweight system, creating resistance during exercise movements without requiring complex mechanical systems, thereby maintaining low manufacturing costs while enabling effective muscle strengthening.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses adjustable elastic cords with varying tension levels to provide different amounts of resistance. By changing the tension parameter of the elastic cords, the device can accommodate users at different strength levels and target different muscle groups, achieving effective muscle strengthening with a simple, low-cost design.
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 provides a cost-effective, safe, and versatile means to improve balance and strength by offering controlled resistance and stability, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing muscle engagement.
Implementation Method 1
At least one elastic cord may extend between the base body and the motion platform assembly. The at least one elastic cord provides resistance to the tilting or rotation of the motion platform assembly relative to the base body.
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of spaced apart roller assemblies are disposed within the interior cavity of the base body. The roller assemblies each comprise a roller at least partially disposed within a roller housing so as to freely rotate therein.
Implementation Method 3
The roller assemblies each comprise a roller at least partially disposed within a roller housing so as to freely rotate therein.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise device including a base plate having a generally circular wall extending upwardly therefrom to define a base body having an interior cavity. Spaced apart roller assemblies are disposed within an interior of the base body. A generally convex dome of a motion platform assembly is at least partially disposable within the base body so as to contact the roller assemblies. The motion platform assembly slides, tilts or rotates as force is applied to an upper support platform. A lip of the motion platform assembly may contact a rim of the wall to limit a range of motion of the motion platform assembly. One or more elastic cords extending between the base body and the motion platform assembly provide resistance to motion of the platform assembly.