Symmetrical Exercise Device with Bumpers and Adjustable Weight Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current exercise devices lack the ability to simulate real-life movements and provide adjustable resistance for athletes, limiting their effectiveness in training for strength and power development, especially for athletes who require functional training that mimics on-field movements.
Innovation Solution
A symmetrical exercise device with adjustable weight plates and a design that includes bumpers and handles, allowing users to perform functional movements by flipping the device over, with the option to change weights without stopping, accommodating different user strengths and enabling progressive training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-weight exercise device like a traditional tire is used, then the device structure is simple and cost-effective, but the resistance cannot be adjusted for different users or progressive training
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device is divided into a frame structure and separate weight plates that can be independently adjusted. The frame provides the structural basis while weight plates can be added or removed to change resistance levels, allowing the device to adapt to different users and training stages without redesigning the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable resistance through removable weight plates and adjustable handles that can be positioned at different locations on the frame. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the resistance and exercise configuration to be changed based on user needs while maintaining a relatively simple frame structure.
2Strength
If heavy resistance is used for strength training, then power development is improved, but the risk of injury from uneven surfaces and improper form increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates bumpers at the base of the frame that provide cushioning and stability during exercise movements. These bumpers absorb impact and prevent the frame from tipping or becoming unstable, reducing the risk of injury even when heavy resistance is used. The stable base design ensures that the device remains secure throughout the exercise range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses handles as intermediaries between the user and the resistance. The handles provide a secure grip point and proper leverage, allowing users to control heavy resistance safely. The handles act as a mediator that distributes force evenly and maintains proper form, reducing injury risk while enabling strength and power development.
3Productivity
If progressive training with varying weights is implemented, then training effectiveness is improved, but the time required to change weights and setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple weight plates are pre-attached to the frame at different positions before the exercise begins. Users can select and adjust the resistance by simply moving between pre-configured weight positions rather than assembling weights during the exercise. This preliminary preparation of weight configurations significantly reduces setup time while maintaining progressive training effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise device is provided, having a frame with a first end opposite to a second end and a top portion opposite to a bottom portion, thereby defining four opposing corners. One or more pins may be coupled to the frame between the first end and the second end, the pins adapted to receive weight plates. A bumper may be coupled to each of the four opposing corners. The bumper may be a substantially longitudinal hollow member which may include a plurality of treads on a side opposite to that coupled to the frame. The device may then be supported by two of the bumpers and flipped over to be supported by the other two bumpers. The lifting and flipping of the device provides an exercise which employs many of the major muscles groups of the body. Weight plates may be added or removed to accommodate different users.