Stretching Apparatus Spool Feedback Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stretching devices for back and upper leg muscle distress do not provide users with feedback on their progress or improvements over time, lacking an indication of muscle flexibility enhancement.
Innovation Solution
A stretching apparatus featuring a handle with a spool and latching mechanism that allows users to visualize their stretching progress through indicia on a user link, enabling them to track improvements over repeated use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stretching device is used to help stretch and loosen muscles, then muscle flexibility is improved, but the user lacks feedback on progress and improvements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a ratchet mechanism with a pointer and scale that provides visual feedback to the user. As the flexible member is stretched and the ratchet advances to lock at different positions, the pointer indicates the degree of stretch on the scale, allowing users to see their progress and improvements over time.
2Loss of information
If a ratchet mechanism is added to provide feedback, then user awareness of progress is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet mechanism is designed to automatically advance and lock at different positions based on the stretch applied, without requiring user intervention or complex electronic systems. The mechanical design itself provides the feedback function, making the system self-sufficient and relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise and flexibility assessing apparatus includes a handle having a flexible member opening and a latch opening formed therein. A shaft support is mounted in the handle. The shaft support has a first wall and a second wall, distal from the first wall. A spool is rotatably mounted between the first wall and the second wall. A flexible member with indicia for assessment has a first end fixedly connected to the spool and a second end extending outwardly from the handle through the flexible member opening. A latch mechanism has an activating portion that extends outwardly of the spool toward the latch opening and a latching portion pivotally engaging the first wall. The latching portion is movable between a first position wherein the spool is rotatable with respect to the handle and a second position wherein the spool is fixed with respect to the handle.