Stackable Handheld Weight Plates with Self-Latching Connector
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing free weight systems, such as barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells, require additional equipment and storage space, and are cumbersome to adjust for varying weights, limiting user flexibility and convenience in exercising.
Innovation Solution
A handheld weight exercise system comprising stackable plates of different weights with a connector assembly and elastomeric band for easy weight adjustment and storage, allowing users to customize weight resistance without additional devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dumbbells or kettlebells are used with fixed weights, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability for varying exercise intensities is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The weight system is segmented into multiple individual plates that can be independently selected and combined. Each plate represents a discrete weight unit (e.g., 2.5 lbs, 5 lbs, 10 lbs) that can be attached or detached from the handle, allowing users to create custom weight combinations without dealing with complex adjustable mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple weight plates of different weights are merged into a single stackable system that attaches to one handle. The connector assembly enables multiple plates to be combined vertically, creating a unified weight structure that provides versatile weight options while maintaining simple individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dumbbells of varying weights are purchased to provide weight variety, then the adaptability for different exercise intensities is improved, but the storage space requirement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The weight plates are designed to nest vertically within each other, with each plate stacking onto the previous one. The connector assembly allows plates to interlock in a vertical arrangement, creating a compact nested structure that minimizes horizontal storage footprint while maintaining access to all weight combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from horizontal arrangement (multiple dumbbells placed side by side) to vertical stacking (plates arranged one on top of another). This dimensional change exploits vertical space efficiently, reducing the horizontal storage area required while providing the same weight variety.
3Adaptability or versatility
If barbell weights are added and secured with clips or locking mechanisms, then the weight can be adjusted, but the operation time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex locking and securing mechanisms are extracted from the weight adjustment system. Instead of requiring clips, locks, or securing devices, the plates simply stack and connect through their inherent structural design, eliminating the need for additional fastening components and simplifying the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is designed to self-latch or self-secure through the natural stacking action of the plates. The structural interlocking occurs automatically when plates are placed together, without requiring user intervention to engage locks or tighten mechanisms, making weight adjustment as simple as stacking.
4Weight of moving object
If a barbell is used, then the weight can be significantly increased by adding plates, but the device complexity and additional equipment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handle with connector assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as the gripping handle, the structural support for weight plates, and the connection mechanism for securing plates. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate bars, clips, and locking mechanisms required by traditional barbells, achieving high weight capacity with minimal equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
A handheld weight exercise system includes a plurality of plates of varying weights. Each plate includes at least one connector assembly for detachably connecting the plate to another adjacent plate. Each plate includes a handhold aperture, which is alignable with a handhold aperture of an adjacent plate when the two are connected to one another, for grasping and moving the one or more plates.