Dynamic Backrest Cradle Structure for Varying Child Sizes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cradles, pushchairs, and highchairs often fail to accommodate children of varying sizes comfortably, as they are designed for average dimensions, leading to suboptimal backrest inclination and depth, which can cause discomfort and strain on seams with adjustable straps.
Innovation Solution
A containing structure with a non-extensible wall and an elastically connected extensible wall, allowing the backrest to adjust inclination, combined with a T-shaped leg-divider and padded buckles for safety and comfort, eliminating the need for a rear strap to adjust inclination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the cradle is designed for average child dimensions, then the structure is simplified, but children of varying sizes experience suboptimal backrest inclination and depth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the backrest movable and adjustable rather than fixed. The backrest can be inclined at different angles and positioned at various depths within the containing structure, allowing it to adapt dynamically to children of different sizes while maintaining a simplified overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by allowing the backrest inclination angle and depth position to be varied according to the child's size. This enables the same cradle structure to accommodate different dimensions by changing the backrest parameters rather than redesigning the entire structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rear strap is added to adjust backrest inclination, then adaptability to different child sizes is improved, but strain on seams increases and may cause failure over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the adjustment function from a separate rear strap mechanism and integrates it directly into the backrest structure. The backrest itself becomes the adjusting element, eliminating the need for additional straps and buckles that would create stress concentration points on the seams.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the backrest support function with the adjustment mechanism. The backrest is directly connected to the containing structure in a way that allows it to be positioned at different angles and depths without requiring separate adjusting components, thereby combining multiple functions into a single integrated element.
3Ease of operation
If extra padding is added to the backrest to reduce pressure, then comfort is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by allowing the backrest to adjust its inclination angle and depth position, which dynamically redistributes the child's weight and pressure points. This mechanical adjustment provides comfort through position variation rather than adding static padding layers.
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 solution ensures self-adjustment of the backrest inclination for optimal comfort regardless of the child's weight, reducing strain on seams and providing a secure, comfortable seating experience for children of different sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a wall made of extensible material elastically connected to the edges of said window
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The frame of a cradle for children, or for a pushchair or highchair, can be provided with a containing structure consisting of a wall of flexible non-elastic fabric, shaped by cutting and stitching it to fit round a concavity that contains a backrest and a seat. The wall of the concavity opposite the backrest is made of an elasticized fabric of polyester fibres and Elastan. The elastic wall is sewn along the edges of a window cut in the non-elastic fabric, obstructing it. The backrest and the seat are cellular panels over which padded covers are placed. The cover over the backrest is sewn crosswise to the cover over the seat and to the non-elastic wall at the base of the window, so that the backrest, when loaded, can be inclined in relation to the seat. The elastic wall provides a dynamic support to the various degrees of inclination made necessary in accordance with the weight of the child and with its movements. The non-elastic wall is turned back on three sides and is sewn to a second elastic wall opposite the first so as to form a bag-shaped structure with an opening for the flexible laminae of a frame for a cradle.