Sliding Lock Handle Connector for Exercise Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elongate exercise apparatuses, such as resistance bands, often require multiple handles due to permanent fixation, leading to unnecessary purchases and discarding of entire units when handles break, and existing interchangeable systems lack efficient mechanisms for handle exchange perpendicular to the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a tubular handle with a resilient covering and a sliding lock mechanism that allows for easy attachment and detachment of elongate exercise devices by sliding the lock normal to the apparatus, enabling quick handle changes and accommodating different diameters and lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If handles are permanently affixed on elongate exercise apparatuses, then the apparatus structure is simple and reliable, but users must purchase multiple apparatuses to vary workouts and cannot replace broken handles
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate components: a base portion that attaches to the handle and a sliding lock portion that secures the elongate exercise apparatus. This segmentation allows the handle and connector to be separated and reconfigured, enabling handle interchangeability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding lock portion can move between a locked position (where it secures the elongate exercise apparatus to the handle) and an unlocked position (where it releases the apparatus). This dynamic capability allows users to easily attach and detach handles without complex tools or mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between versatility and simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If a sliding wedge system is used to secure resistance bands in handles, then bands are held securely during use, but the system requires force application parallel to the apparatus and is not optimized for quick exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding lock portion moves along the base portion in a direction normal to the longitudinal axis of the elongate exercise apparatus. This dynamic sliding mechanism allows for rapid attachment and detachment of handles by simply moving the lock portion, significantly reducing handle exchange time compared to traditional wedge systems that require force application parallel to the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion acts as an intermediary component that receives both the handle and the sliding lock portion. This intermediary structure facilitates easy handle exchange by providing a standardized interface where the sliding lock can quickly engage or disengage from the handle, reducing the time and effort required for handle replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If elongate exercise apparatuses are designed with fixed handles, then manufacturing is simple, but users cannot switch between different apparatus characteristics and must discard broken units
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connector into a base portion and a sliding lock portion, the manufacturing process can be simplified. Each component can be manufactured separately using standard molding or fabrication techniques, then assembled together. This approach provides apparatus configuration flexibility through handle interchangeability while avoiding the need for complex integrated connector designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion and sliding lock portion can be designed as universal components that work with multiple types of handles and elongate exercise apparatuses. This multi-functionality allows a single connector design to serve various apparatus configurations, increasing adaptability without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity.
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
Enables efficient and versatile handle exchange without needing multiple apparatuses, reducing waste and allowing for easy replacement or switching between exercise devices with different characteristics, applicable across various fields including medical, construction, and industrial.
Implementation Method 1
a sliding lock mechanism that allows for easy attachment and detachment of elongate exercise devices by sliding the lock normal to the apparatus
Implementation Method 2
The connector may be comprised of a base and a sliding lock wherein the sliding lock may be slid to clamp an end of the elongate flexible exercise device between the base and the sliding lock
Data Source
AI summary
The exercise system of the disclosure comprises one or more flexible, elongate exercise components, such as a resistance band, that is releasably connected to a handle via connector portion. In accordance with the disclosure, the connector portion generally comprises a base having a sliding lock thereon that slides in a direction normal to the exercise component to securely and releasably clamp a portion thereof between the sliding lock and the base portion.