Adjustable Torsion Spring Hinge for Independent Leg Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing abdominal exercise devices lack the ability to conveniently adjust resistance levels during a workout and restrict the variety of exercises that can be performed, as they often require disassembly and do not allow for individual leg training.
Innovation Solution
A portable exercise apparatus featuring a U-bar with rotatable hinge assemblies and torsion springs that allow for independent adjustment of resistance levels without disassembly, enabling users to easily change resistance settings and perform various exercises, including those targeting individual legs and abdominal sides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If resistance hubs are made interchangeable to vary resistance levels, then resistance adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases and components can be easily lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance adjustment mechanism is integrated into the existing hinge assembly structure, allowing users to adjust resistance by simply rotating an adjustment knob that winds a spring, without needing to disassemble or swap components. The system serves itself by using the mechanical movement of the hinge to automatically tension the spring, eliminating the need for separate resistance hub components that could be lost or misplaced.
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance adjustment mechanism is merged with the hinge assembly, combining the pivot pin, torsion spring, and adjustment knob into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate interchangeable resistance hubs while maintaining resistance adjustability, thereby reducing device complexity and preventing component loss.
2Device complexity
If the apparatus is designed with fixed resistance, then device complexity is reduced, but resistance adjustability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance mechanism transitions from a static fixed-resistance design to a dynamic adjustable-resistance design. The torsion spring can be tensioned to different degrees by rotating the adjustment knob, allowing the resistance to dynamically adapt to user needs while maintaining a simple integrated hinge assembly structure without adding complex mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a single thigh leaning bar is used, then device complexity is reduced, but exercise variety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single thigh leaning bar is segmented into two independent L-shaped bars (first L-shaped bar and second L-shaped bar) that can independently rotate relative to the U-shaped bar. This segmentation allows each bar to be used separately for single-leg exercises or together for bilateral exercises, significantly increasing exercise variety while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through the use of independent hinge assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The two independent L-shaped bars provide multi-functionality, allowing the apparatus to perform both single-leg and double-leg exercises, as well as various abdominal exercises. Each bar can function independently or in combination with the other, making the apparatus universal for multiple exercise types without requiring additional specialized components.
4Device complexity
If resistance adjustment requires disassembly, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance adjustment mechanism is designed to be self-service, allowing users to adjust resistance by simply rotating an adjustment knob integrated into the hinge assembly. The mechanical movement of rotating the L-shaped bar automatically tensions the torsion spring through the pivot pin mechanism, eliminating the need for disassembly or complex adjustment procedures while maintaining simple device architecture.
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
Enables users to quickly and easily adjust resistance levels and perform a range of exercises, enhancing workout versatility and convenience by allowing independent rotation of L-bars relative to the U-bar, thus accommodating different training needs.
Implementation Method 1
Each rotatable hinge assembly further comprises a torsion spring and a torsion spring tension setting means configured to vary tension of the torsion spring
Implementation Method 2
a torsion spring and a torsion spring tension setting means configured to vary tension of the torsion spring
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise apparatus includes a U-bar the ends of which are pivotally coupled to two L-bars by rotatable hinge assemblies containing a torsion spring. The rotatable hinge assemblies have a torsion spring tension setting means configured to vary the tension of the torsion spring and to secure the torsion spring at two or more distinct tensions settings without disassembly of the apparatus thus providing two or more distinct levels of resistance to the relative rotation of each L-bar independently with respect to the U-bar. Additionally, in certain embodiments of the apparatus each hinge assembly has an operation setting means that functions to control the allowable independent rotation of each L-bar relative to the U-bar end sections.