Elongated Flotation Device With Elastic Sleeve And Cut-Out Handles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing elongated recreational flotation devices lack aesthetic and functional features that enhance user experience and recreational activities in water bodies.
Innovation Solution
An elongated flotation device with a flexible member and a sleeve made from stretchable materials, featuring channels, caps, and cut-outs for improved support and handling, along with customizable designs and secure fitting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple flotation device design is used, then manufacturing cost and device complexity are reduced, but aesthetic appeal and functional features are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device is divided into distinct functional segments: the flexible member providing buoyancy, the sleeve providing aesthetic coverage and additional functionality, and optional caps providing enhanced features. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with simple processes while the assembled device offers comprehensive features including aesthetic appeal, handling capabilities through cut-outs, and secure fitting mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a flexible member with channel is used, then buoyancy and structural integrity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible member is constructed as a hollow structure with a channel extending through it, providing both buoyancy and structural integrity. The flexible nature of this shell allows it to conform to the user's body while maintaining its buoyant properties. The channel within the flexible member can be used for securing the sleeve or caps, integrating multiple functions without significantly increasing overall device complexity.
3Shape
If a sleeve is added to cover the flexible member, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but manufacturing complexity and fitting difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve is designed with elastic or stretchable properties, changing the material parameter from rigid to flexible. This allows the sleeve to be manufactured as a single piece that can be easily stretched over the flexible member during assembly, eliminating complex fastening mechanisms while maintaining aesthetic appeal and providing a snug fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The sleeve is designed to fit over the flexible member in a nested configuration, with the flexible member inserted into the sleeve. This nesting approach simplifies assembly by allowing components to be slid into place without complex fastening mechanisms, while the elastic properties of the sleeve ensure a secure fit.
4Ease of operation
If cut-outs are added for handles, then ease of operation and recreational functionality are improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Cut-outs are strategically positioned in the flexible member at locations that do not compromise the overall structural integrity. These localized openings provide hand grips for easy handling and recreational activities such as tug-of-war, while the surrounding material maintains sufficient strength to support the buoyant function. The cut-outs are designed with appropriate dimensions and spacing to balance functionality with structural requirements.
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 provides enhanced buoyancy, aesthetic appeal, and functional features like handles and secure fitting, improving user experience and recreational activities in water.
Implementation Method 1
The flexible member is configured to support an individual in a body of water at the water surface
Implementation Method 2
the body member is an elongated cylindrical body member made from material which is stretchable, such as fabric
Data Source
AI summary
A flotation device includes an elongated and flexible member with a channel extending between longitudinal ends of the flexible member. The flexible member is configured to support an individual within water during a recreational activity. The flexible member can include at least one cut-out defining a handle. A sleeve having a body member is dimensioned to fit over the flexible member and act as the flexible member's skin. The sleeve can includes at least one cut-out which substantially aligns with the at least one cut-out of the flexible member.