Wedge-Shaped Foam Exercise Support for Stable Supine Spinal Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foam rollers are impractical and uncomfortable for exercising the upper quadrant regions, as they are unstable, difficult to lie on supine, and do not adequately support users of varying heights, potentially leading to discomfort or injury.
Innovation Solution
A wedge-shaped exercise support made from high-density foam with a tapered ridge and inclined cylindrical shape, providing stable support for the spine and allowing for effective exercises to address postural imbalances, featuring a flat underside for stability and a curved surface for comfort and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional cylindrical foam roller is used, then it provides basic support, but it is unstable and difficult to lie on supine
Solution Approach 1:
The foam roller is modified from a symmetric cylindrical shape to an asymmetric wedge shape with one flat end and one rounded end. The asymmetric profile creates a stable base when placed on the floor while providing a gradual incline that facilitates easy transition into the supine position, resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a longitudinal incline dimension to the traditional cylindrical roller, transforming it into a wedge shape with varying height along its length. This dimensional change creates both a stable flat base for support and a gradual slope that makes it easy to lie on, simultaneously improving reliability and ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a foam roller is used for upper quadrant exercise, then it provides support, but it does not adequately support users of varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped foam roller provides different support characteristics at different locations along its length. The thicker end provides elevated support for the head and upper back, while the thinner end provides support for the lower back and pelvis. This local variation in support quality allows users of different heights to find their optimal position while maintaining adequate spinal support throughout.
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
The wedge-shaped design enhances user safety and comfort, allowing for effective exercises that correct spinal curves and alleviate neck, shoulder, and upper back issues, making it suitable for users of all heights and improving postural balance.
Implementation Method 1
an elongate section of a resilient material
Implementation Method 2
The lower surface is preferably substantially planar... the ridge having a height above the lower surface which increases along its length
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~9
AI summary
An exercise support comprises an elongate section of a resilient material, provided in a shape having a lower surface, and an upper surface which includes a ridge running longitudinally along the section, the ridge having a height above the lower surface which increases along its length. Such a device can be used to support the spine of a user in a supine position, with the thinner end of the wedge towards their pelvis and their head resting towards the thicker end. This avoids sudden changes in the degree of support provided along the spine and is also stable on a floor or other surface while the user lowers themselves onto it.