Wrist Wrap Tab Structure for One-Handed Weightlifting Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wrist wraps for weightlifting require two hands for proper positioning, leading to improper wrist placement, compromised grip, and discomfort due to thumb loops, and are difficult for individuals without thumbs to use.
Innovation Solution
A wrist wrap design featuring a strip with a single tab and fastener sections that allows one-handed application, ensuring proper positioning without thumb loops, maintaining grip integrity, and accommodating users without thumbs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a thumb loop is added to hold the end of the wrap in place, then the ease of operation is improved, but the grip strength and distance between hand and bar deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the thumb loop component entirely from the wrist wrap design. Instead, it uses a tab extension that allows the user to hold and position the wrap during application without requiring a loop around the thumb. This extraction of the problematic element eliminates the grip interference while maintaining ease of application through alternative means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a tab extension as an intermediary element between the user's hand and the wrap material. This tab serves as a temporary holding mechanism during application that does not interfere with grip, replacing the functional role of the thumb loop without its harmful effects.
2Ease of operation
If the user contorts her hand to hold the end of the wrap in place, then the ease of operation is improved, but the wrist positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a tab extension that extends from the end of the wrap, allowing the user to preliminarily position and hold the wrap in the correct location before wrapping. This preliminary positioning action enables proper wrist alignment to be maintained throughout the application process without requiring hand contortion.
3Ease of operation
If a thumb loop is used to hold the wrap during application, then the ease of operation is improved, but the comfort and grip integrity worsen due to the loop remaining in place
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely removes the thumb loop from the design, eliminating the source of grip interference. The tab extension provides temporary holding capability during application only, then can be tucked away or removed, leaving no persistent element to interfere with grip integrity during the lifting exercise.
4Manufacturing precision
If the wrap requires two hands for proper positioning, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates when alone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the wrap with a tab extension that enables the user to independently hold and position the wrap during application using only one hand. This self-service mechanism allows proper positioning accuracy to be achieved without requiring assistance from a second person or the use of both hands simultaneously.
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 secure, comfortable, and efficient one-handed application of wrist wraps, maintaining grip strength and ensuring proper wrist support during weightlifting.
Implementation Method 1
These means are often hook and loop-type fasteners
Data Source
AI summary
A wrist wrap for use in supporting a wrist during weight-lifting includes a strip, at least one tab, and first and second fastener sections. The tab extends from a first end of the strip and is made of a single ply of tab material. The first and second fastener sections are disposed on the wrist wrap so as to engage one another to secure one to the other. A user may hold the end of the tab in place with a tip of a finger, thereby holding the strap in place against her wrist while she uses the other hand to wrap and secure the strap. She may then tuck the tab into the wrappings.