Dual-Sided Retention Device for Secure Object Access and Attachment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for retaining objects, such as teething rings and pacifiers, often lack secure and convenient attachment methods to supporting structures like cribs, leading to accessibility issues for infants and toddlers.

Innovation Solution

The access device features a device body with anchor devices on the backside for secure attachment to a supporting structure using hooks, loops, magnets, or ties, and retention devices on the frontside for easily removable objects, ensuring safe and firm retention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If an item is simply placed upon the device, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of item retention deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoiditem retention reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retention device is segmented into multiple functional components: a device body, an anchor device for securing to supporting structures, and a retention mechanism with movable and stationary members. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retention mechanism acts as an intermediary between the item and the device body. The movable retention member engages with the stationary retention member to securely hold the item, providing a reliable connection without requiring complex integration of all functions into a single component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If an item is enclosed within the device, then the item retention reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveitem retention reliabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The retention mechanism employs dynamic elements, specifically a movable retention member that can transition between engaged and disengaged states. This allows the item to be securely retained when needed while enabling easy access by simply moving the retention member, eliminating the need for complex opening mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring active manipulation to secure an item, the design allows the movable retention member to naturally engage with the stationary member, securing the item passively. To release the item, the user simply moves the movable member away, inverting the traditional approach where active engagement is required for both securing and releasing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Reliability

If an item is secured to the device, then the reliability of item retention is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveitem retention reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor device is localized to the back side of the device body, providing secure attachment to supporting structures without affecting the front-side retention functionality. This local specialization allows each part of the device to perform its function independently, maintaining reliability while avoiding unnecessary complexity in the overall design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The device body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, anchors the retention mechanism, and secures the anchor device to supporting structures. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable item retention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Stability of the object's composition

If the access device is attached to a supporting structure, then the stability of the device is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice stabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into a stable anchor portion attached to the supporting structure and a mobile retention portion that can be easily manipulated. This segmentation allows the anchor to provide stability while the retention mechanism maintains ease of operation for item access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device body acts as an intermediary between the stable anchor device and the movable retention mechanism. This intermediary structure transmits the stability from the anchor to the retention mechanism while allowing the retention member to move freely for easy item access without compromising overall device stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 access device provides easy and convenient access to multiple objects while securely attaching to a supporting structure, allowing infants and adults to locate and retrieve items easily, enhancing mental well-being and safety.

Implementation Method 1

anchor devices on the backside for secure attachment to a supporting structure using hooks, loops, magnets, or ties

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS11564521B1Access devices and methods of using and making the same
Publication Date: 2023.01.31 SEVEN SIBLINGS LLC
  • US11564521B1 patent drawing
  • US11564521B1 patent drawing
  • US11564521B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Access devices for removably retaining an object are provided, as well as methods of making and using such access devices. The access device can include: a device body including a back side and a front side; an anchor device secured on the back side of the device body, and the anchor device for securing the access device to a supporting structure; and a retention device secured on the front side of the device body, and the retention device for removably retaining the object.