EML4551 - Available Projects

Genesis of Idea: From my observations of people working out at the gym, it is obvious to me that many do not realize that the bar that they are lifting is misaligned relative to their bodies on one and sometimes two of the three possible axes of rotation. I would like to see a product developed that would give an athlete immediate feedback as to which direction they are deviating in order to correct the stroke of the “rep” so that the exercise they are engaged in would be performed correctly and in a way that equally and symmetrically stresses and builds muscle.

Vertical Axis (Yaw) & Longitudinal Axis (Roll): Described from the perspective of an individual performing a bench press, one axis in question is the longitudinal axis where the error in execution of the exercise is that sometimes one hand is higher than the other throughout the rep. The other error is in the vertical axis where the error in execution of the exercise is that one hand is closer to the feet and the other is closer to the head throughout the rep. The lateral axis is not a factor because athletes can consciously choose, within limited parameters, to press from either a slightly higher or lower position on their chest in order to work the muscles from different angles.

I’m aware that there are “Smith Machines” in gyms which prevent deviations in either the vertical or longitudinal axes. The solution I’m proposing would have applications for exercises done with “free weights” where part of the benefit of working “free” is that the smaller stabilizing muscles must come into play. I’m hoping the final solution would have applications for a variety of free exercises involving a bar, including bench press, bicep curls, military presses and possibly more.

Manifestation of Mechanism: I envision an apparatus that would attach to the center of a bar, and through the use of a LED light system, would visually demonstrate to an athlete in what direction they are deviating through the stroke so that a correction could be made. Perfect technique would be shown by a separate light that would indicate a “bullseye” signifying no deviation from the two axes described above." (by Mr. Mike Bucar)

He created, designed and invented a device and obtained a provisional patent and he needs an engineering student to take my designs and create a prototype so that you can sell them to restaurants.

He will pay the student for the work. He could send the student the designs and then you could work out what the payment would be. This would be a one-time project.