Foldable Bath Frame with Limiting Assembly for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bath frames are non-foldable, occupying large space during transportation and storage, leading to increased transportation costs and space utilization challenges.
Innovation Solution
A foldable bath frame design with a first and second frame body connected by a flexible seat and a limiting assembly, allowing conversion between unfolded and folded states, featuring a locking mechanism for stability and a detachable connection for ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the bath frame is designed to be non-foldable, then the structure is simple and stable, but it occupies large space during transportation and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The bath frame is divided into multiple frame bodies (first frame body, second frame body, third frame body) that can be segmented and folded relative to each other. The flexible connecting parts allow each segment to be independently positioned, enabling the frame to transition from an expanded stable configuration to a compact folded configuration for storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The bath frame employs dynamic elements including flexible connecting parts and movable limiting assemblies that allow the structure to change its configuration. The frame can dynamically transition between an unfolded stable state for use and a folded compact state for storage, with the limiting assembly providing operational control over this transformation.
2Ease of manufacture
If the bath frame is designed to be non-foldable, then the manufacturing process is simple, but transportation costs increase due to large volume
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into multiple connectable units with standardized flexible connecting parts and limiting assemblies. This modular segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components that can be easily assembled and disassembled, reducing transportation volume while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through component standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
By incorporating dynamic folding capabilities with flexible connecting parts, the frame reduces its transportation volume significantly without requiring complex manufacturing processes. The flexibility and movability features enable compact folding while the standardized components keep manufacturing simple.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the bath frame includes a locking mechanism, then the stability during use is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting assembly functions as a self-service locking mechanism that automatically engages and disengages based on the frame's configuration. When the frame is unfolded, the limiting assembly automatically provides locking action to ensure stability during use, and when folded, it automatically releases. This self-activating feature provides stability without requiring complex manual locking systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The limiting assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a locking mechanism to provide stability during use, serves as a connecting element between frame bodies, and provides operational control for folding and unfolding. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated locking components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
4Volume of stationary object
If the bath frame is made foldable, then space utilization is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting assembly is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the frame's configuration, providing self-service operation. When the frame is unfolded, the limiting assembly automatically locks to provide stability. When folded, it automatically releases. This automatic action simplifies operation for the user while enabling compact folding for storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible connecting parts and movable limiting assembly create a dynamic system that responds automatically to user actions. The frame can be easily unfolded and folded by simple user movements, with the limiting assembly automatically providing locking and releasing actions, making the foldable design easy to operate despite the added functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure introduces a foldable bath frame comprising a body and a limiting assembly. The body consists of a first and second frame connected by a flexible seat. The limiting assembly at the bottom features a first mounting part on its first end, which detachably couples with the first frame's mounting cavity, and a second mounting part on its second end, pivotally connected to the second frame's mounting cavity. This design enables conversion between unfolded and folded states. The flexible seat deforms to facilitate folding/unfolding, while the limiting assembly's reinforced connections ensure both portability and structural stability, balancing convenience with durability in the foldable structure.