Combination backpack and convertible infant changing station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant changing assemblies in public restrooms are limited in availability and raise sanitation concerns due to germ prevalence, prompting the need for portable and sanitary solutions.
Innovation Solution
A convertible backpack with a clamshell-style body that converts into an infant changing station, featuring a rigid lower half and pivotally connected upper half, with straps for securing to elevated locations or being worn, and exposed receptacles for easy access to changing supplies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed wall-mounted changing assembly is used in public restrooms, then a support surface for infant changing is provided, but availability is limited and sanitation concerns arise due to germ prevalence
Solution Approach 1:
The changing station is divided into separable components: a backpack carrier and a removable changing station assembly. This segmentation allows the changing station to be transported home and reassembled, providing a sanitary fixed installation while maintaining portability for travel use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system serves multiple functions: it operates as a portable changing station during travel, can be installed as a permanent sanitary solution at home, and the backpack itself provides carrying capacity for supplies. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between limited availability and sanitation concerns.
2Reliability
If a portable carrying station is used instead of fixed designs, then sanitation is improved, but the device requires portability features adding complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The changing station assembly integrates multiple components into a single unit: the support surface, storage compartments, and attachment mechanisms are combined into one assembly that attaches to the backpack. This merging reduces the complexity of managing separate portable components while maintaining sanitation benefits.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the changing station is made rigid for stability, then support stability is improved, but portability and convertibility become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The changing station employs dynamic design elements including pivotally connected components that allow the station to transition between folded and extended positions, and adjustable straps that adapt to different support locations. This dynamic design provides stability when deployed while maintaining portability for transport.
Data Source
AI summary
A convertible backpack or carrying bag for establishing an infant changing station, including a body having a first rigid lower depth defining half and a second pivotally connected rigid upper half. A strap extends from the upper half which is adapted to secure to an elevated location in order to support the body in an open position in which the infant is supported upon the lower depth defining half. A clamp or other attachment portion can be secured to the strap and includes a “U” shaped hook portion adapted for engaging a top extending door edge. Other looped straps can also be used in combination or apart from the clamp securing strap for providing additional support when worn by a user.