Foldable Flotation Device Using Relasable Locking Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Life jackets and swim assist vests are bulky and occupy significant space when not in use, making them inefficient for transportation and storage.
Innovation Solution
A transport and storage system using releasable locking members or an elastic loop to fold the device along its longitudinal center line, with strap members or snap fasteners engaging to hold it in a compact configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the flotation device is made bulky to ensure safety and comfort, then the safety function is improved, but the space occupied during storage and transport increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device is divided into multiple panels that can be folded relative to each other along longitudinal center lines, allowing the bulky structure to be segmented into a compact folded configuration for storage while maintaining the full safety function when worn
Solution Approach 2:
The folded panels are arranged to nest within each other, with the right and left sides folding toward the center and the rear portion folding forward, creating a compact nested package that minimizes storage volume while preserving the complete flotation device structure
2Volume of stationary object
If the flotation device is folded to reduce storage space, then the storage efficiency is improved, but the complexity of the folding and securing mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic folding capabilities where panels can be folded and unfolded as needed, with releasable locking members that allow easy transition between the compact folded state and the expanded wearable state, reducing the perceived complexity through user-friendly operation
Solution Approach 2:
The releasable locking members are designed to be easily engaged and disengaged by the user without requiring tools or complex procedures, allowing the device to be folded and secured through simple self-service actions that minimize the functional complexity
3Reliability
If releasable locking members are used to secure the folded device, then the retention reliability is improved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The releasable locking members serve multiple functions: they secure the folded panels together, maintain the compact configuration during transport, and can be easily released when the device needs to be worn, providing versatile functionality that justifies the added components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple locking members are integrated into a coordinated system where they work together to secure the folded device, with some members combining multiple securing actions into single components, reducing the overall number of discrete parts while maintaining reliable retention
Data Source
AI summary
A vest type flotation device having means for holding the flotation device in a folded configuration for transport and storage. In one embodiment a transport and storage strap member is attached substantially at its outer end to one of the right and left sides. The transport and storage strap member has a first portion of a first releasable locking member set attached thereto adjacent its inner end. A second portion of the first releasable locking member set is attached to one of the right and left front portions of the device. A second portion of a second releasable locking member set is attached to the right or left side of the device opposite the side to which the outer end of the transport and storage strap member is attached.