Spring-Assisted Abdominal Exercise Backrest
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exercise devices for sit-ups and stomach crunches fail to accommodate heavy or tall individuals, offer limited resistance, and lack comfort and support, leading to inadequate muscle strengthening and strain on neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles.
Innovation Solution
A floor-based exercise apparatus with an adjustable, inclined backrest supported by springs, providing customizable height and weight capacity, along with positionable foot rests and adjustable straps, to assist users in performing exercises while minimizing strain and offering resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a canvas and aluminum chair is used for sit-ups, then the exercise feels easy and comfortable, but it does not offer much resistance and fails to strengthen abdominal muscles effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The backrest is designed to be dynamic rather than static, utilizing springs to provide variable resistance that adapts to the user's movement. The backrest moves from an inclined position to a vertical position during the exercise, creating dynamic resistance that challenges the abdominal muscles while maintaining comfort through controlled motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance parameter is changed by incorporating springs with specific force constants and by adjusting the backrest's angle of inclination. The springs are configured to provide optimal resistance throughout the range of motion, transforming the static comfort of a regular chair into a dynamic exercise device that offers progressive resistance.
2Device complexity
If existing exercise devices are used, then they are simple in structure, but they do not accommodate heavy or tall people and have limited weight capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with universal adaptability to accommodate users of various heights and weights. The backrest can be adjusted to different angles and positions, and the springs are configured to support a wide weight range, making the device suitable for diverse populations without requiring multiple specialized equipment pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic backrest mechanism allows the device to adapt to different user sizes and weights. By enabling the backrest to move through a range of positions and by using springs with appropriate force characteristics, the device provides effective resistance and support for both lighter and heavier users, as well as for users of different heights.
3Device complexity
If sit-ups are performed lying on the floor, then no special device is needed, but it places undue strain on the neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined backrest acts as an intermediary between the user's body and the floor. It provides a supportive surface that prevents the neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles from bearing excessive strain during the exercise. The backrest redistributes the mechanical load to the stronger lower back and abdominal muscles, eliminating the harmful strain associated with floor exercises.
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 effectively supports users of varying heights and weights, providing necessary resistance and comfort to strengthen abdominal muscles and reduce strain on neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles, accommodating diverse user needs.
Implementation Method 1
A back rest rises up when supported by two springs. The two springs provide back support when the individual is in the reclining position. However, as a person goes from a sitting position to a reclining position, when his or her shoulders contact the back rest, the springs compress and then expand to assist the individual in rising up.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise apparatus that lies flat on the floor having a back rest rises up when supported by two springs. The lower part of the back and buttocks lie horizontal while the upper part of the back is inclined at an angle to the horizontal. When not in use, the upper back rest folds down flat so that the device can be stored under a bed. The two springs provide back support when the individual is in the reclining position. However, as a person goes from a sitting position to a reclining position, when his or her shoulders contact the back rest, the springs compress and then expand to assist the individual in rising up. The device has two specially designed positionable foot rests with straps to provide a place for the individual to place his or her feet.