Wheelchair Leg Exercise Device With Resistance Band Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for exercise equipment designed for individuals with physical limitations that can be effectively used while seated in a wheelchair.
Innovation Solution
An exercise device comprising a base, footrest, and resistance stand with removable resistance bands that attach to both the device and the wheelchair, allowing users to perform leg press and calf raise exercises by exerting force against the footrest, with the resistance bands providing resistance and controlling the wheelchair's movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If exercise equipment is designed for people without physical limitations, then the equipment structure can be simple and universal, but it cannot be effectively used by people with physical limitations who need to exercise while seated in wheelchairs
Solution Approach 1:
The exercise device is designed to serve multiple user groups - both able-bodied individuals and people with physical limitations who use wheelchairs. The footrest can accommodate users in different positions, and the resistance mechanism works effectively whether the user is standing or seated in a wheelchair, making the equipment universally applicable across different ability levels
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a base structure, a footrest assembly, and a resistance mechanism with bands. This segmentation allows the equipment to be configured for different user needs while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity
2Reliability
If resistance bands are used to provide resistance, then the exercise effectiveness is improved, but the force exerted by the user may cause the wheelchair to move away from the exercise device
Solution Approach 1:
The resistance bands are configured to provide counteracting forces that stabilize the wheelchair position. When the user pushes against the footrest, the resistance bands exert an opposing force that prevents the wheelchair from moving away, while still allowing controlled movement for exercise. This counterbalancing mechanism maintains exercise effectiveness while ensuring positional stability
Solution Approach 2:
The resistance bands act as an intermediary element between the user and the wheelchair. They transmit and control the forces involved in the exercise, providing both the resistance needed for effective exercise and the stabilizing force that keeps the wheelchair in the proper position relative to the exercise device
3Ease of operation
If the footrest is positioned to align naturally with the user's feet, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural complexity of the footrest assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The footrest assembly incorporates local structural features - such as angling the plate between vertical and horizontal - that specifically address the need for natural foot alignment. This localized adaptation improves ease of operation without requiring complete redesign of the entire device, thus minimizing the increase in overall structural complexity
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 individuals with physical limitations to perform effective leg and calf exercises, providing resistance and control through the interaction of the resistance bands with the wheelchair, enhancing muscle engagement and exercise effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The resistance members may be one or more resistance bands that are configured to removably attach to the one or more points of attachment and also to removably attach to the wheelchair. The resistance bands may resist the force exerted by the user from pushing against the footrest.
Implementation Method 2
The resistance bands may also exert a force on the wheelchair to pull the wheelchair and user back toward the exercise device when the user controllably stops applying the force against the footrest.
Data Source
AI summary
An exercise system, device, and method may allow a user of a wheelchair to perform various leg exercises. The system may include a wheelchair, resistance bands, and an exercise device. The exercise device may include a base, a footrest stand, and a resistance stand. The footrest stand and the resistance stand may both extend from the base. The footrest stand may allow a user to rest feet thereon and to push against the exercise device. The resistance stand may provide a place of attachment for resistance bands and provide resistance as a user performs various leg exercises while in a wheelchair.