Convertible Toy Container With Unzip-Flat Activity Mat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Children face challenges in carrying and playing with toys while on the go, as existing solutions do not provide a convenient way to store and play with toys simultaneously, leading to lost toys and inconvenient clean-up processes.
Innovation Solution
A convertible toy container that unzips to transform from a storage container into an activity mat, featuring zipper teeth and pulls, allowing it to change shape and function between storage and play modes, made from materials like cotton, canvas, and stiffening materials like cardboard or plastic, with optional padding and decorative themes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate storage container and play mat are used, then storage function and play function are both provided, but device complexity and number of items to carry increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single apparatus that serves both as a storage container and as a play mat. The container can be configured in a first state for storage and a second state for play, eliminating the need for separate storage and play items. This is achieved through reversible fastening mechanisms that allow the container walls to be detached and laid flat, transforming the three-dimensional storage structure into a two-dimensional play surface.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid storage container is used, then storage stability is improved, but ease of transformation to flat play mat deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the container with reversible and adjustable fastening mechanisms rather than permanent rigid connections. The fastening members can be engaged to maintain structural stability during storage, and disengaged to allow transformation into a flat play mat. This dynamic design enables the structure to adapt between stable container form and flexible play surface form.
3Productivity
If clean-up process is separate from play, then toy organization is achieved, but time required for clean-up increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining the storage function and play surface function into a single integrated apparatus. Toys can be played with directly on the flat play mat configuration, and then simply folded up and fastened back into the container configuration for storage. This eliminates the need for separate clean-up processes, as the play surface itself becomes the storage container through the folding and fastening action.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses convertible between at least a storage container in a first configuration and an activity mat in a second configuration. One apparatus includes a circular lid, a circular base, and at least one zipper pull that zips the lid and base to a wall. When zippered, the apparatus has a generally cylindrical shape. A carrying handle is provided on the lid. When unzippered, the apparatus becomes an activity mat and lies flat. Another apparatus includes two sides, a base, a flap, and at least one zipper pull that zips the sides to the flap. The sides resemble the outline of a car, such that the apparatus when zipped up resembles a car and when unzipped becomes an activity mat and lies flat. Backpack straps on the back allow the apparatus to be worn as a backpack.