Collapsible Wetsuit Drying Rack with Integrated Washing and Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wetsuits are challenging to dry due to their bulkiness and the need for space, and conventional drying methods can damage the fabric, while storage is cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a receptacle with rotatable joints, a rack, and a drain for efficient drying and storage, allowing wetsuits to be washed, dried, and stored conveniently, with optional features like collapsible sidewalls and fans for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If wetsuits are dried in the sun to accelerate the drying process, then drying time is reduced, but the wetsuit fabric is damaged due to UV exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a drying rack as an intermediary device that enables air drying without direct sunlight exposure. The rack structure with vertical bars and crossbars provides elevated suspension that promotes airflow while blocking harmful UV rays, thus mediating between the need for fast drying and fabric protection
2Loss of time
If wetsuits are dried in conventional dryers, then drying time is reduced, but the wetsuit fabric is damaged due to extreme temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, non-heating materials for the drying rack construction (wooden or metal bars), replacing the need for energy-intensive heating systems. This approach uses passive air circulation rather than thermal energy, avoiding fabric damage while maintaining drying effectiveness
3Ease of operation
If wetsuits are hung in the shower for drying, then drying convenience is improved, but shower space is occupied and movement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The drying rack is segmented into multiple vertical bars and crossbars that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the structure to be collapsed into a compact form for storage in small spaces while expanding to provide adequate drying surface area when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The rack incorporates collapsible legs and adjustable components that transition between extended and folded states. This dynamic structure enables the rack to adapt to different space requirements, providing full functionality during use and minimal footprint during storage
4Volume of moving object
If wetsuits are left bulky and take up space, then storage efficiency is reduced, but the wetsuit structure is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The rack utilizes vertical space through its elevated suspension design, hanging wetsuits upward rather than spreading them horizontally. This dimensional approach to storage maximizes use of vertical volume while minimizing horizontal footprint, and the structured hanging supports maintain wetsuit shape during the process
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to an apparatus that allows users to dry, wash, and store their wetsuits and wetsuit accessories. The apparatus includes a receptacle with an interior sized and shaped to hold a wetsuit and a user's accessories. The receptacle comprises a drain configured on one side to dispose of any accumulated water and debris. The interior of the receptacle includes joints that allow a collapsible rack to extend or retract as desired by the user. Thus, a user can wash a wetsuit in the device reservoir, then hang the wetsuit from the drying rack for complete drying. The rack can also be folded to store the wetsuit and any desired accessories (gloves, shoes, etc.) until they are needed.