Docking arrangement for manikin
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manikins with removable limbs face challenges in secure and tool-free connections, especially at major joints like the pelvis and thigh, which affect ease of storage, transport, and realistic movement simulation, while also lacking efficient signal transfer mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A docking arrangement featuring a pin and guide element on the limb connecting part and a corresponding opening and groove on the torso part, with a locking mechanism and pivotable linkages to mimic human movement, enabling secure, tool-free connections and signal transmission between the pelvis and thigh, and potentially other parts like the shoulder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the limbs are made removable for easier storage and transport, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connection security and structural stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The manikin is divided into separate modular components (torso, limbs, head) that can be detached and reattached. This segmentation enables easy storage and transport while maintaining connection security through specialized docking arrangements with locking mechanisms that ensure reliable reconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system transitions from static permanent joints to dynamic removable joints. The docking arrangement allows the connection state to change between locked (secure) and unlocked (removable) states, providing both ease of operation for assembly/disassembly and reliability when connected through the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the connection, then the connection security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through a cam-and-latch system that automatically engages when the limb is inserted into the torso. The user simply needs to apply minor manual force to trigger the locking action, eliminating the need for complex multi-step locking procedures or additional tools.
Solution Approach 2:
A cam-shaped element acts as an intermediary between the insertion motion and the locking action. As the limb is pushed into the torso, the cam rotates and triggers the latch mechanism, converting linear insertion force into rotational locking motion without requiring direct complex mechanical intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connection allows realistic human movement, then the realism is improved, but the structural stability and connection reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates controlled degrees of freedom that allow specific movements (flexion, extension, rotation) while constraining others. The docking arrangement permits physiological ranges of motion through articulated joints while maintaining structural stability through precision-engineered bearing surfaces and alignment features.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint connection transitions from a fixed rigid structure to a dynamic articulated connection that adapts its degrees of freedom based on the intended movement. The locking mechanism maintains stability during static positions while allowing controlled movement during operation, achieving both realism and reliability through state-dependent behavior.
Data Source
AI summary
A limb and torso docking arrangement for a manikin comprising —a first connecting part for connection with a limb (30) of the manikin —a second connecting part for connection with a torso (not shown) of the manikin. The invention is distinctive in that the first connecting part includes a pin and a guide element protruding from the first connector part and a first plug part for electrical, and/or pneumatic transmission and/or liquid between the limb and the torso, the second connecting part includes an opening and a groove adapted to respectively receive the pin and the guide element of the first connecting part, the second connecting part further comprises a second plug part, the first plug part and second part being positioned on the respective first connecting part and the second connecting part so that the plug parts is adapted to mate when the first connecting part and second connecting part being connected, the thigh and pelvis docking arrangement further comprises a locking arrangement adapted to lock the first connecting part and the second connecting part together after being connected.