Crank-N-Foam Toy Gun Mechanism for Safe Bubble Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water guns often shoot high-powered jets of water that can sting sensitive skin, and there is a need for a toy that offers a distinctive twist while being easy to use and manufactured at a modest expense, capable of propelling bubbles and foamy water safely.
Innovation Solution
A crank-n-foam system comprising a durable plastic toy gun with a reservoir and barrel assembly, featuring a hand grip, fill port, pivot rod, series of paddles, and a manual switch, designed to build pressure and dispense a foamy, pressurized solution of bubbles and foamy water when the handle is cranked.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high-powered jets of water are used in water guns, then shooting power is improved, but skin safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the water stream by introducing foam and air bubbles, transforming the dense water jet into a dispersed foamy stream. This parameter change reduces the kinetic energy concentration and impact force on skin while maintaining the shooting function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a porous foam structure instead of solid water stream. The foam consists of numerous small air bubbles dispersed in water, creating a porous medium that reduces impact intensity while maintaining flow continuity and shooting capability.
2Productivity
If a crank mechanism with paddles is added to generate foam, then foam production capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The crank mechanism generates rotational motion that agitates the soap solution, creating mechanical vibration and turbulence. This agitation facilitates foam generation by incorporating air into the liquid, transforming the solution into foamy bubbles through dynamic mechanical action.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a water pump to pressurize and move the soapy water through the crank mechanism. The hydraulic pressure drives the paddles and facilitates air mixing, while the pneumatic introduction of air bubbles creates the foam structure in the water stream.
3Reliability
If durable plastic material is used for the crank-n-foam assembly, then corrosion resistance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from traditional metal components to durable plastic materials. This material substitution maintains corrosion resistance and waterproofing while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost, as plastic components can be molded in single pieces without requiring anti-corrosion treatments.
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
The system provides a safe and enjoyable way to play with bubbles and foamy water, ensuring ease of use and durability, while being corrosion-resistant and waterproof, suitable for both left and right-handed users.
Implementation Method 1
When the hand crank is turned about its axis, the series of paddles rotate in a likewise manner within the inner volume, and are able to be rotated both clockwise and counter clockwise to agitate the soap product for use as needed.
Implementation Method 2
a user manually turn the hand crank in a rapid manner, with the chamber flap in a closed position, thereby creating a foamy, substantially pressurized solution within the reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
The crank-n-foam is a toy gun that is able to propel bubbles and a foamy water mixture from the barrel after rapidly cranking a handle on the reservoir shell, which builds foam and pressure within the reservoir, and then releasing the foam and bubbles by opening a manual switch on the barrel shell. The toy provides safe entertainment for the user.