Wearable Resistance Glove with Multidirectional Elastic Band Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional functional resistance training equipment provides resistance primarily in one direction, limiting the ability to simulate sports movements and rehabilitation exercises effectively in various directions and settings, and often strains joints due to uneven weight distribution.
Innovation Solution
A wearable functional resistance exercise apparatus comprising a glove with attachment mechanisms for resistive elements like elastic bands or cables, which can be secured to the glove and a torso-covering vest, allowing resistance in multiple directions and providing flexibility in resistance application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional resistance equipment (ankle weights, wrist weights, weighted vests) is used, then resistance is provided in a downward direction, but resistance in other directions is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from gravity-based downward resistance to elastic band-based multidirectional resistance. The elastic bands are attached to fixed points and the user's body, creating resistance forces that can act in any direction depending on the user's movement, thereby adding dimensional versatility to the resistance training system.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic bands provide dynamic resistance that changes with the user's movement. As the user moves, the elastic bands stretch and generate varying resistance forces in different directions, allowing the resistance to adapt dynamically to the exercise motion rather than remaining static in a single downward direction.
2Force
If ankle or wrist weights are used, then resistance is provided, but natural gait and movements are interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces elastic bands as an intermediary element between the user's body and the resistance source. Instead of directly attaching weights to body parts, the elastic bands connect the user to fixed points, providing resistance without the direct interference of concentrated weights on limbs, thus preserving more natural movement patterns.
3Ease of operation
If weighted vests are used, then load is distributed more evenly, but strain on back, knees, and joints increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the concentrated weight loading from the body (as in weighted vests) and replaces it with elastic band tension. By removing the need for heavy vests and instead using distributed elastic resistance from multiple attachment points, the system maintains load distribution benefits while reducing harmful concentrated forces on the back and joints.
4Force
If sled or parachute resistance is used, then resistance is provided in one direction, but resistance in other directions is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the resistance system into multiple independent elastic bands attached at different locations on the user's body and to different fixed points. This segmentation allows each band to provide resistance in its own direction, collectively offering multidirectional resistance capability that overcomes the single-direction limitation of sled or parachute systems.
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 perform sports-specific movements and rehabilitation exercises with resistance in any direction, reducing joint strain by distributing the load more evenly and providing adjustable resistance levels, enhancing training effectiveness and comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a resistive load element which generates force in opposition to the user's movement of the hand wearing the glove in substantially any direction. The resistive element is preferably an elastic band
Data Source
AI summary
A functional resistance exercise apparatus includes a glove for a user's hand. At least one loop is securely disposed or formed on the glove, and a resistive element is attachable to the loop which generates force in opposition to the user's movement of the hand wearing the glove in substantially any direction. The resistive element is preferably an elastic band securable at one end to the loop and at the other end to a fixed point, or a cable attached to a weight. The apparatus preferably also includes a vest having at least one loop attached thereto. The band is attachable at one end to the glove and at the other end to the vest. Both the glove and the vest preferably have reinforced portions upon which their respective loops are attached to prevent stretching or tearing of the glove or vest.