Stepping Device With Dual Trampoline Mats At Different Heights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aerobic exercise machines lack variability in step height and stability, leading to limited engagement of oblique and stabilizing muscles, which can result in less effective workouts.
Innovation Solution
A stepping device with multiple trampoline mats at different heights connected by resilient connectors, allowing for adjustable step heights and increased instability, requiring users to exert energy for both stepping and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional aerobic exercise machines use fixed step heights, then the device structure is simple, but the engagement of oblique and stabilizing muscles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple step treads (first step tread, second step tread, third step tread) positioned at different heights, allowing users to select different step heights for varied exercise intensity and muscle engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The step treads are made dynamic through the addition of trampoline mats that can deflect and rebound, transforming the static stepping surface into a dynamic one that requires additional stabilizing muscle engagement
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional exercise machines use stable platforms, then the device structure is simple, but the energy expenditure and muscle engagement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Trampoline mats are installed on the step treads, creating a flexible surface that deflects under user weight and rebounds. This flexible surface requires users to engage stabilizing muscles continuously, significantly increasing energy expenditure compared to rigid platforms
Solution Approach 2:
The trampoline mats transform the static, stable platform into a dynamic, unstable surface that moves in response to user interaction, requiring constant muscular adjustment and stabilization
3Adaptability or versatility
If single trampoline mat is used, then the device structure is simple, but the workout variety and effectiveness are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple trampoline mats are installed on different step treads at varying heights, allowing users to perform diverse exercises including high steps, low steps, and alternating patterns, significantly increasing workout variety
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple step treads with trampoline mats serve multiple functions: they provide different step heights for varying intensity levels, enable different exercise patterns (ascending, descending, alternating), and engage different muscle groups through the unstable surface
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
Enhances the workout by increasing energy expenditure through the use of trampoline mats, which provide lower stability, engaging muscles more effectively and allowing users to burn more energy in a shorter time.
Implementation Method 1
a first resilient connector that connects the first trampoline mat to the first step tread, and a second resilient connector that connects the second trampoline mat to the second step tread. In one aspect of the invention, at least one of the first resilient connector and the second resilient connector exhibit a spring force when under tension.
Data Source
AI summary
A stepping device includes a first step tread at a first step height and defining a first opening, and a first trampoline mat suspended within the first opening. The stepping device also includes a second step tread at a second step height which is spaced apart at a single riser height from the first step height. The second step tread defines a second opening and a second trampoline mat is suspended within the second opening.