Active Stool with Integrated Storage and Multi-Path Rocking Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seating solutions lack integration of active movement and storage capabilities, limiting their versatility and functionality, especially in settings like classrooms where users need to access items while remaining seated.
Innovation Solution
An active stool design featuring a tilting base with multiple rocking paths and a storage cavity, combined with a removable cover that doubles as a seat, allowing users to rock and store items such as books, backpacks, and art supplies within the stool's interior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional seating is used, then simplicity and ease of manufacture are maintained, but versatility and functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single seating device: the base provides both active movement capability (rocking paths) and storage functionality (cavity), while the cover serves as both a closure for the cavity and a seat surface. This merging of functions increases versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The seating device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides active movement through rocking paths, storage through the cavity, and seating through the cover. The base structure universally supports both movement and storage functions, making the device adaptable to various classroom needs.
2Quantity of substance
If storage cavity is added to the base, then storage capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The storage cavity is merged into the base structure itself rather than being a separate component. The base is designed with an internal cavity that is accessible through an opening, eliminating the need for additional storage containers or attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure serves dual purposes: it provides the rocking movement mechanism and simultaneously houses the storage cavity. This multi-functionality allows the same structural elements to support both movement and storage functions.
3Ease of operation
If the cover is made removable, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seating device is segmented into two main components: a removable cover and a base. The cover can be detached from the base to provide access to the storage cavity, allowing easy retrieval of stored items while maintaining a simple two-part construction.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rocking paths are provided, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base incorporates a spherical cap surface that naturally provides multiple rocking paths in different directions. This curved geometry allows the seat to rock along various arcs without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms, as the spherical shape inherently guides the motion.
Data Source
AI summary
An active stool includes a base and a cover. The base defines an interior cavity accessible through an open end of the base. The cover removably mounts to the base to cover the open end. The cover defines a seat for a user. The base is configured to tilt along at least one rocking path. Certain types of bases are configured to tilt along multiple rocking paths.