Angularly Adjustable Changing Pad to Reduce Infant Acid Reflux

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional horizontal changing pads do not allow for adjustable positions, leading to discomfort and increased risk of acid reflux and spit-up incidents in babies, as they lie flat, which can be alleviated by propping them up at an upright angle.

Innovation Solution

An angularly adjustable changing pad with a pivotally secured adjustable plate, a foldable pad that can transition between horizontal and angled configurations, and an adjustable strap for securing the infant, allowing for multiple incline angles and enhanced comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional horizontal changing pad is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the baby experiences discomfort and increased risk of acid reflux

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition adjustabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The changing pad incorporates a pivotable support surface that can be adjusted between horizontal and angled positions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to different baby positions and needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable changing pad serves multiple functions: it can be used in horizontal position for comfortable changing and in angled position to prevent acid reflux and spit-up, making it a multi-functional device that addresses various baby care needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the baby lies flat on a horizontal pad, then the structure remains simple, but acid reflux and spit-up incidents increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidacid reflux and spit-up
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The support surface can be dynamically adjusted between horizontal and angled positions, allowing the user to easily change the baby's position to prevent acid reflux while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Object-affected harmful factors

If an adjustable angled position is added to the changing pad, then acid reflux is reduced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveacid reflux and spit-upVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pivotable mechanism allows the support surface to be adjusted to an angled position that prevents acid reflux, transforming a simple horizontal pad into a dynamic adjustable device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The changing pad is divided into separable components including a pivotable support surface and a base, allowing for easier manufacturing and assembly while enabling the angled position function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20240099477A1Angularly adjustable changing pad
Publication Date: 2024.03.28 GONZALEZ KATHERINE
  • US20240099477A1 patent drawing
  • US20240099477A1 patent drawing
  • US20240099477A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An angularly adjustable changing pad is provided that is a traditional changing pad but with the added benefit of reducing acid reflux and other stomach issues for a baby. The angularly adjustable changing pad includes a frame, a pad, an adjustable strap, a plurality of notches, a pair of snaps, and an elongated bar. The angularly adjustable changing pad includes the notches that are disposed along the fixed plate on opposing sides thereof and permits the adjustable plate to be securely supported at inclines at different angles in relation to the fixed plate is in a standalone kit format as well as an assembled device. The adjustable strap includes a buckle that is a quick-side release buckle to further secure an infant to the pad.