Bootie Rail Dispenser With Low-Level Alert for Safer Application
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for putting on shoe covers, known as booties, are time-consuming, require workers to be unstable, and often result in accidents or neglect to wear them due to the cumbersome process of manually handling and sitting down, leading to environmental degradation and increased risk.
Innovation Solution
A bootie application device featuring a rail system with releasable tabs that allows booties to slide into position for easy application without manual handling, accompanied by a sensor that detects low bootie levels and alerts the user via visual, audible, or digital means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling of booties is used, then workers can apply booties to their shoes, but the process is time-consuming and requires workers to sit down on benches
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows workers to self-serve booties from the dispenser without requiring assistance or sitting down. The automated dispensing mechanism enables workers to retrieve booties independently while standing, eliminating the time loss associated with manual handling and bench sitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of picking up and handling booties with an automated dispensing system. The dispenser uses mechanical mechanisms to automatically present booties to workers, substituting the manual handling process and reducing the time required.
2Productivity
If workers stand on one leg to put on booties without sitting down, then the process is faster, but workers become unstable resulting in accidents
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser enables workers to maintain their normal standing position while accessing booties through the self-service mechanism. Workers do not need to balance on one leg or adopt unstable postures, as the system presents booties within easy reach while they remain firmly planted on both feet.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser acts as an intermediary between the bootie supply and the worker, eliminating the need for workers to adopt unstable positions. The device mediates the delivery process by presenting booties in a manner that allows workers to maintain stable, safe standing positions throughout the application process.
3Ease of operation
If booties are manually handled from a bin, then workers can access them, but the process requires benches and additional space
Solution Approach 1:
The dispenser combines multiple functions into a single space-efficient unit: it stores multiple booties, automatically dispenses them, and presents them for worker access. This multi-functional integration eliminates the need for separate benches and extensive space allocation, providing easy bootie access in a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispenser design nests multiple booties within a compact vertical or horizontal structure, maximizing space utilization. Booties are stored in a nested arrangement within the dispenser body, allowing efficient storage and access without requiring additional external space or bench structures.
4Ease of operation
If workers do not put on booties due to the cumbersome process, then the application process is avoided, but the environment is degraded and workers are at enhanced risk
Solution Approach 1:
The automated dispenser makes the bootie application process so convenient that workers are motivated to use it consistently. The self-service mechanism eliminates the cumbersome manual handling that previously caused workers to skip bootie application, ensuring that protective footwear is worn and environmental contamination and worker risk are prevented.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect when booties are low in the dispenser and provide feedback (visual or audible alerts) to prompt timely replenishment. This feedback mechanism ensures continuous availability of booties, maintaining the ease of operation that encourages consistent worker compliance and prevents environmental degradation and safety risks.
Data Source
AI summary
A bootie application device that provides booties that slide along a rail system on tabs that releasably connect the booties to the rail system. A sensor detects when booties are not disposed at a position along the rail system and issues a bootie level signal. An alert indicates when the bootie level signal has been issued.