Fitted Blanket with Elastic Edges for Adaptable Body Enclosure
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blankets do not provide a snug and versatile enclosure for the human body, especially in varying temperature and weather conditions, and do not accommodate different user sizes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A fitted blanket design featuring a curvilinear triangle shape with elastic edges and adjustable openings, made from versatile fabrics like woven, unwoven, and knit materials, allowing for customizable fit and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional blanket designs are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the ability to provide a snug and versatile enclosure for the human body is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The blanket is divided into multiple panels (front panel, back panel, and side panels) that can be independently configured and attached. This segmentation allows the blanket to adapt to different body sizes and shapes while maintaining a manageable structure through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The blanket incorporates adjustable fastening mechanisms (such as Velcro straps, buttons, or zippers) that allow the enclosure to be dynamically adjusted to different user sizes and preferences. This dynamic adjustment capability enables a single blanket design to accommodate various users effectively.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-size blanket design is used, then manufacturing precision requirements are reduced, but the ability to accommodate different user sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The blanket is divided into multiple panels (front panel, back panel, and side panels) that can be independently configured and attached. This segmentation allows the blanket to adapt to different body sizes and shapes while maintaining a manageable structure through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The blanket design incorporates universal features such as standardized attachment points and adjustable fastening systems that work across different size configurations. This universality allows a single manufacturing process to produce blankets that can be adapted to various user sizes without requiring multiple precision-crafted size variants.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional blanket materials are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but the ability to accommodate varying temperature and weather conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The blanket incorporates different fabric types in different zones to address varying thermal requirements. For example, the front panel facing the user's body may use a softer, more insulating material, while the back panel uses a more breathable or weather-resistant fabric. This local differentiation enhances weather adaptability while maintaining manageable manufacturing through standardized material specifications for each zone.
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 fitted blanket provides a secure and comfortable enclosure for users of various sizes, accommodating different weather conditions and user preferences through adjustable features and versatile fabric options.
Implementation Method 1
A fitted blanket design featuring a curvilinear triangle shape with elastic edges
Data Source
AI summary
A fitted blanket for use in a variety of contexts, including home, outdoor activities, school and in healthcare facilities, to enclose a human body may include a generally curvilinear triangle shaped bag with a front side and a back side defining an interior enclosure, a top portion with two shoulder areas and a bottom portion with a foot area. A generally oval opening may be defined in the back side with two openings in the front side. The fitted blanket may include elastic edges along the perimeter of the oval opening to secure the blanket around the user.