Variable Vector Resistance Training Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing physical training apparatuses are limited in their ability to provide resistance to multiple muscle groups simultaneously during complex sports-specific movements, failing to effectively train athletes for high-speed movements and power generation through rotational motions of the hips and torso.
Innovation Solution
A physical training apparatus that provides multiple training vectors with origins variable in direction and elevation, allowing for resistance to be applied to the hands, legs, back, and other body parts, utilizing elastic members and tracking mechanisms to ensure consistent resistance across a range of motion, and accommodating various exercise positions and body dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing physical training apparatuses are used, then simple resistance training can be provided, but they cannot provide resistance to multiple muscle groups simultaneously during complex sports-specific movements
Solution Approach 1:
The training apparatus is divided into multiple independent resistance providing mechanisms, each capable of providing resistance to different body parts. Multiple elastic members are attached to different locations on the trainee's body (hands, feet, hips, torso) to enable simultaneous resistance training of multiple muscle groups during complex movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to perform multiple training functions through a unified system. The combination of elastic members, tracking mechanisms, and adjustable attachment points creates a multi-functional device that can provide resistance training for various sports-specific movements including running, jumping, and rotational motions.
2Speed
If constant resistance is applied during high-speed movements, then muscle conditioning at high speeds can be achieved, but the resistance magnitude may be insufficient to provide adequate training stimulus
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance system transitions from static to dynamic by using elastic members that can vary their resistance output. The elastic members are configured to provide relatively constant resistance during high-speed movements while allowing the magnitude to be adjusted by changing the elastic member's length and configuration, enabling adequate training stimulus at high speeds.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple elastic members are used to provide resistance to different body parts, then comprehensive muscle group training can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple resistance providing functions are merged into a unified training system. The elastic members are integrated with tracking mechanisms and attachment points that work together as a coordinated system, reducing the overall complexity compared to using separate training devices for each muscle group.
Solution Approach 2:
Tracking mechanisms serve as intermediaries between the elastic members and the trainee's body movements. These tracking mechanisms guide the elastic members through the appropriate range of motion while maintaining consistent resistance, simplifying the interaction between multiple elastic members and the trainee.
4Reliability
If elastic members are configured to provide relatively constant resistance over a predetermined range, then consistent training stimulus can be provided, but the resistance magnitude varies with elastic member length
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance magnitude is controlled by changing the physical parameters of the elastic members, specifically their length and configuration. By adjusting these parameters, the resistance magnitude can be optimized for different training objectives while maintaining relatively constant resistance throughout the predetermined range of motion.
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 comprehensive muscle group training, enhancing athletic performance by simulating sports-specific movements with adjustable resistance, improving power generation and neurological sequencing of muscle activation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one elastic member attached to each harness for providing a force opposing the motion of the harness in a predetermined range of motion
Data Source
AI summary
A resistance training apparatus and method for providing a plurality of training vectors having points of origin variable by direction and elevation to a trainee. The apparatus may accommodate a plurality of trainees and provide multiple training vectors to each trainee. The apparatus provides the training vectors by attaching tethers such as elastic cords to harnesses worn around body portions of an athlete in a configuration that allows the athlete to perform a sports-specific or therapeutic movement at an optimum speed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a base forming the training area and a pair of tower assemblies, each providing elastic cords for attachment to the harnesses worn by the athlete. In another embodiment the apparatus provides at least sixteen training vectors to a trainee. In yet another embodiment the apparatus provides training vectors to patients or trainees who cannot fully support their own body weight. Each of the elastic cords providing the training vectors are independently adjustable such that balanced or unbalanced loading may be applied simultaneously to a trainee from multiple directions and multiple planes.