Segmented Muscle Therapy Device with Detachable Resistance Band Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current muscle therapy devices lack the ability to perform effective joint and muscle mobilization exercises, particularly in the neck and shoulder area, and do not allow for secure attachment of resistance bands, making them inadequate for rehabilitation and functional training without additional tools like compression flossing.

Innovation Solution

A portable muscle therapy device with an elongated shaft composed of detachable segments, allowing for adjustable length and attachment of resistance bands, balls, and handles, enabling compression flossing and functional training, and providing a secure attachment mechanism for various sizes and densities of balls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional therapy devices are used, then basic compression is provided, but joint and muscle mobilization exercise capability is lacking

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemobilization exercise capabilityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The therapy device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can provide compression therapy, enable joint and muscle mobilization exercises, and serve as a functional training tool. The device achieves this by integrating an elongated shaft with attachment points that can accommodate various therapy tools including balls of different sizes and densities, resistance bands, and handles, allowing a single device to replace multiple separate tools.

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

2Reliability

If do-it-yourself methods with tennis balls on wooden sticks are used, then basic compression therapy is achieved, but secure attachment and versatility are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment securityVSAvoidinterchangeability of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device employs a segmented design where the elongated shaft is divided into multiple detachable segments that can be connected and disconnected. Each segment contains attachment points with standardized interfaces, allowing secure attachment of various therapy tools while enabling easy reconfiguration. The segments can be detached for travel and reassembled in different configurations to suit different therapy needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-length bars are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different muscle groups and exercises is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustable lengthVSAvoidsegmented structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device transitions from a fixed-length bar to a dynamic, adjustable-length structure composed of detachable segments. The segments can be connected in different numbers and configurations to create varying lengths suitable for different muscle groups and exercise types. This dynamic adaptability allows the same device to serve multiple therapeutic purposes without requiring multiple separate tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If portable devices are used, then travel convenience is improved, but attachment mechanism reliability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidattachment security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into detachable segments that can be easily separated and packed for travel. The segmentation enables compact storage while maintaining secure attachment capabilities through standardized interfaces with multiple attachment points. Users can pack only the segments and attachment tools they need for specific travel situations, reducing bulk while preserving functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10022578B2Muscle therapy device
Publication Date: 2018.07.17 MODERN HYGIENE LLC
  • US10022578B2 patent drawing
  • US10022578B2 patent drawing
  • US10022578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a portable muscle therapy device that can be used for physical therapy, fitness and exercise by creating compression to a joint/muscle while performing movement exercise (flossing) to restore mobility and pain relief. The muscle therapy device may include an elongated shaft comprised of a plurality of detachable segments that allow a user to change a length of the elongated shaft and convert the elongated shaft into separate bars. For example two bars may be formed, one for each hand of the user, and a resistance band may be attached to each bar. Additionally, the muscle therapy device of the present disclosure provides for an ability to attach a handle on one end of the elongated shaft to mimic a canoeing and stand up paddle for back, core and shoulder exercise.