Adjustable Cradle Frame with Gear Assembly for Multi-Position Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cradle frames and cushions lack adjustable and versatile designs that can effectively support users in various positions and applications, such as massage tables or chairs, with limited flexibility in positioning and integration of support features like fragrance or medication holders.
Innovation Solution
The cradle frame incorporates a connection assembly, a support assembly with adjustable components, and a gear assembly for customizable positioning, along with a cushion design featuring reusable hook-and-loop fasteners and a ribbon for adjustable stiffness, allowing for adaptable support and integration with structures like massage tables or chairs, and includes a cavity for holding agents like fragrances or medications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-position cradle frame is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot be adjusted to different positions for various applications
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle frame transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamically adjustable one through the integration of a gear assembly and adjustment assembly. The gear assembly enables the cradle frame to be positioned at multiple angles relative to the support assembly, allowing adaptation to different applications while maintaining structural stability through controlled mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle frame system is designed to perform multiple functions by combining the support assembly, adjustment assembly, and gear assembly into a single integrated unit. This universal design allows the same structure to serve different purposes (e.g., massage tables, medical applications) by adjusting the cradle frame position without requiring separate specialized structures for each application.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid cushion structure is used, then the structural integrity is maintained, but it cannot deflect to provide comfort and support in various positions
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion is designed with non-uniform thickness, being thicker at the ends and thinner in the middle section. This local variation in quality allows the middle section to deflect and conform to different positions while the thicker ends maintain structural integrity and support the overall cushion shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The cushion's physical parameters are varied across its structure, specifically the thickness parameter changes from the ends to the middle section. This parameter change enables different mechanical behaviors in different regions - the thinner middle section allows deflection for comfort while the thicker ends provide structural strength.
3Ease of operation
If a simple beam connector is used, then the manufacturing is easy, but it cannot provide controlled positioning of the support assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into separate functional modules: the gear assembly for controlled movement and the adjustment assembly for position locking. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining ease of operation through modular design and independent optimization of each subsystem.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of cradle frames and cushions are described herein. A cradle frame includes a connection assembly, a support assembly, an adjustment assembly, and a gear assembly. The connection assembly is configured to couple the cradle frame to a structure. The support assembly includes two side sections, and a middle section that is curved downward and positioned substantially between the two side sections. The adjustment assembly is coupled to the support assembly for adjusting the positioning of the support assembly. The gear assembly is coupled to the adjustment assembly for controlling the positioning of the support assembly. A cushion has a contoured upper side, and one or more opening in the middle part of the cushion on the underside.