Stretch Box Aperture Layout for Progressive Forward Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices fail to effectively assist users in progressively increasing the depth of their forward bends, particularly for individuals with tight hamstrings or back problems, limiting their ability to enhance flexibility and health through stretching exercises.
Innovation Solution
A five-sided rectangular prism-shaped stretching device with apertures and crossbars on its lateral sides allows users to grasp and push forward while pulling backward, enabling gradual progression in forward bends by alternating foot placement and grip on different apertures or crossbars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a user attempts to increase the depth of their forward bend without assistance, then they may experience muscle strain or injury, but they cannot effectively progress their stretching capability
Solution Approach 1:
The stretch box serves as an intermediary device between the user and the stretching action. By placing the box in front of the user and having them grasp the apertures or crossbars, the device provides a stable reference point and mechanical advantage that enables safer and more effective forward bends without requiring the user to push against their own body weight alone
Solution Approach 2:
The box is divided into multiple apertures arranged in vertical columns, creating discrete progression levels. This segmentation allows users to systematically work through different stretching intensities by moving from one aperture to the next, making the progression of forward bend depth more manageable and less likely to cause injury
2Ease of manufacture
If a user uses a simple stretching device, then the device is easy to manufacture and use, but it cannot provide effective progressive stretching for tight hamstrings and back problems
Solution Approach 1:
The stretch box is designed as a universal device that can be used by people with various levels of flexibility and for different stretching goals. The multiple apertures and crossbars provide versatile gripping options, and the box can be used in different positions (standing, seated) to accommodate various user needs and physical conditions
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the box have different functions: the apertures provide gripping points for hands, the crossbars provide alternative gripping points, and the box structure itself provides support and stability. This local differentiation of function within a simple overall structure enables effective stretching without complex mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
The Paschima Stretch Box System is an exercise device for improving a user's forward bend flexibility. The box has a top panel and four side panels. The side panels are configured with a plurality of apertures that pass between an outer side and an inner side of the box. A user can stand on the box or assume a seated position with feet against the box, grasping the apertures or crossbars. As the user bends forward or extends their legs, the device facilitates a gradual increase in the depth of their stretch, targeting the user's hamstrings and back. Various embodiments include different aperture shapes, notched lower edges, rounded edges for comfort, and specific panel thicknesses and dimensions. The location of the apertures can be varied to provide more gradual stretching progression by rotating the box.