Scalp Muscle Exercise Apparatus with Pivotable Plate
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise devices do not effectively target the weakening of the epicranius muscle, leading to drooping eyelids, and existing remedies are either temporary, uncomfortable, or do not address the underlying muscle weakness.
Innovation Solution
A head and neck exercising apparatus with a harness, pivotable plate, and biasing member that allows users to engage their scalp muscles through resistance exercises, adjustable for different head sizes and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If resistance exercising is used to strengthen muscles, then muscle strength is improved, but the muscles of the scalp are neglected and begin to weaken and sag
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies local quality by designing a specialized apparatus that targets specifically the scalp and neck muscles (epicranius muscle) rather than general body exercise. The harness, plate, and biasing member are configured to engage only the posterior scalp and neck region, providing localized resistance exercise that addresses the specific muscle weakness causing drooping eyelids.
Solution Approach 2:
The device segments the exercise function by separating the scalp muscle engagement from general body exercise. The harness divides into specific components (support portion, arms, brace, plate) that work together to isolate and target the epicranius muscle group, allowing focused strengthening without requiring the user to perform complex full-body routines.
2Ease of manufacture
If cosmetic remedies like adhesive eye strips are used, then drooping eyelids are temporarily covered, but the underlying muscle weakness is not addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by addressing the root cause (muscle weakness) before the cosmetic effect is needed. Through regular resistance exercise using the apparatus, the epicranius muscle is strengthened in advance, preventing the development of drooping eyelids rather than merely covering them up. This foundational approach eliminates the need for temporary cosmetic fixes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device converts the harmful effect of muscle weakness into a beneficial exercise opportunity. The weight of the head and neck muscles, which normally causes drooping, is transformed into the resistance force needed for strengthening exercise. The biasing member and plate configuration allow the user to push against the natural weight of their own head, converting a cosmetic problem into a functional exercise benefit.
3Reliability
If Botox injections are used to treat droopy eyelids, then partial results are achieved, but the solution is temporary and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables continuity of useful action through regular, repeated exercise sessions that can be performed daily or weekly. Unlike Botox which provides a temporary chemical effect, the exercise apparatus allows continuous muscle strengthening through consistent use. The biasing member maintains continuous resistance during each exercise cycle, and the muscle memory developed through repetition provides long-lasting results without the need for repeated injections.
4Reliability
If surgery is used to remove excess fat and sagging skin, then vision is improved, but the eyelids will continue to droop after the procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The device acts as an intermediary between the user and the muscle strengthening process. Rather than requiring surgical intervention or complex exercise routines, the apparatus provides a simplified mechanical interface (harness, plate, biasing member) that translates simple head movements into effective resistance exercise. This intermediary device makes the strengthening process accessible and sustainable, addressing the root cause without the need for surgery.
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 method to strengthen the scalp and neck muscles, addressing the root cause of drooping eyelids and offering a comfortable, long-term solution.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member that biases the plate towards the collapsed position
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an apparatus for exercising muscles of the head and/or neck. The apparatus comprises a harness, and a plate is pivotably connected to the harness. The plate is movable between a collapsed position and an exercise position where a back of the head of the user can engage with the plate. A biasing member biases the plate towards the collapsed position.