Stretch Exercise System with Symmetric Elastic Straps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional stretch exercise devices are bulky, require professional supervision, can lead to incorrect posture and injuries, and fail to provide effective whole-body stretching with clear awareness of stretch intensity.

Innovation Solution

A stretch exercise system comprising a waist harness, upper and lower limb extension units, Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units, and movable anchoring units that allow for balanced and controlled stretching, enabling users to stretch their entire body safely and effectively without professional supervision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional stretch exercise devices are used, then stretching function is provided, but the devices are bulky and hard to store

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestretching functionVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The stretch exercise device is divided into multiple independent components: a waist harness, separate leg extension units with elastic straps, and individual Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units. Each component can be independently assembled and stored separately, significantly reducing storage volume while maintaining the complete stretching functionality when assembled together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional stretch exercise devices are used, then stretching is provided, but professional supervision is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestretching functionVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms including automatic balance systems and built-in angle guides that automatically maintain proper stretching angles. The elastic straps are pre-configured with appropriate tension, and the Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units automatically position themselves at the correct angles, allowing users to perform stretches independently without professional supervision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional stretch exercise devices are used, then stretching is provided, but incorrect posture and injuries may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestretching functionVSAvoidinjury risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device includes built-in feedback mechanisms through the elastic straps that provide tactile resistance and guidance. The straps are tensioned to provide continuous feedback to the user about proper form and positioning. The Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units incorporate mechanical stops and guides that physically prevent excessive or incorrect angles, giving immediate feedback when proper posture is not maintained, thereby preventing injuries.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Adaptability or versatility

If conventional stretch exercise devices are used, then lower limb stretching is achieved, but upper body may become more flexed contrary to relaxation purpose

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelower limb stretch capabilityVSAvoidupper body posture
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates an upper body support unit with counterbalancing elements that provide upward support to the torso and shoulders. The elastic straps are configured to distribute tension evenly, with some straps anchored to provide upward counterforce against the lower limb stretching action. This counterbalancing system prevents the upper body from collapsing forward or becoming more flexed during lower limb stretching, maintaining proper spinal alignment and preventing compensatory postural deviations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

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 system facilitates safe, effective, and effortless whole-body stretching, promoting spinal column restoration and relaxation, while minimizing the risk of injury and allowing users to maintain proper posture, thereby improving muscle flexibility and overall well-being.

Implementation Method 1

an upper limb extension unit having a right upper limb elastic strap and a left upper limb elastic strap symmetrically configured at the dorsal portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10688334B2Stretch exercise system
Publication Date: 2020.06.23 HUANG YU FEN
  • US10688334B2 patent drawing
  • US10688334B2 patent drawing
  • US10688334B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A stretch exercise system includes a waist harness, an upper limb extension unit having a right and a left upper limb elastic straps which are set symmetrically on the waist harness, a wrist loop, a lower limb extension unit having a right and a left lower limb elastic strap units which are set symmetrically on the waist harness, two Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units connecting with the right and the left lower limb elastic strap units respectively, and two sole fastening units set thereon respectively to hold feet of a user. When the system is operated, a static balance is reached with a force applied on the upper limb extension unit and a force applied on the Achilles tendon retro-stretch angle units by the user.