Child Carrier Frame Joint Dynamics for Compact Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger transport carriers face challenges in efficiently transitioning from an expanded in-use position to a compact storage position, particularly due to limited flexibility in frame assembly design that can lead to snagging, pinching, or creasing of cover materials during folding.
Innovation Solution
The passenger transport carrier incorporates a frame assembly with strategically positioned joint assemblies that allow the rear frame to fold between an unfolded in-use position and a folded storage position, with specific angles and movements of frame members that minimize material stress and optimize storage size, including a first joint assembly that moves longitudinally forward to facilitate folding within the confines of the cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the frame assembly is designed with fixed joint positions, then the structural stability is improved, but the folding flexibility deteriorates causing snagging and pinching of cover materials
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assemblies are designed to move dynamically along the frame members during folding operations. Specifically, the joint assemblies can translate longitudinally along the tubular frame members, allowing the frame geometry to adapt continuously during the folding process rather than being constrained by fixed joint positions. This dynamic capability enables smooth transitions between extended and folded configurations without snagging or pinching the cover materials.
2Strength
If the frame members are made rigid for structural integrity, then the strength is improved, but the ease of folding deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is segmented into multiple tubular frame members connected by movable joint assemblies. This segmentation allows each member to maintain its rigid structural integrity while the joint assemblies provide the necessary flexibility for folding. The joint assemblies act as independent elements that enable relative motion between the rigid frame members, thus combining strength with foldability.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint assemblies incorporate movable connections that allow the frame members to pivot and translate relative to each other during folding. This dynamic joint design maintains the rigidity of individual frame members for structural integrity while enabling smooth folding operations through controlled movement of the joint assemblies along the frame members.
3Ease of manufacture
If the joint assemblies are positioned at the ends of frame members, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the folding smoothness deteriorates causing material stress
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assemblies are designed to move along the frame members during folding, distributing the folding action over a longer distance and time period. This dynamic movement prevents concentrated stress at single points where joints are located, thereby reducing the risk of snagging, pinching, or creasing the cover materials while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized joint components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enables a reduced folded size for easier storage and hauling while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal by minimizing material stress and optimizing frame assembly geometry, ensuring smooth transitions between operational and storage positions.
Implementation Method 1
a first joint assembly that moves longitudinally forward to facilitate folding within the confines of the cover
Implementation Method 2
the rear frame can be configured to fold between an unfolded in-use position and a folded storage position
Data Source
AI summary
A child transport carrier includes an upper frame member having a forward end and a rear end and a rear frame coupled to the upper frame member. The rear frame includes a lower rear frame member, an upper rear frame member having an upper end fixedly coupled to the rear end of the upper frame member, and a first joint assembly coupling the lower rear frame member and the upper rear frame member. The rear frame is configured to fold between an unfolded in-use position and a folded storage position. The upper frame member and the upper rear frame member are fixed relative to each other. The first joint assembly is disposed longitudinally rearward of the forward end of the upper frame member and longitudinally forward of the rear end of the upper frame member in the unfolded in-use position.