Foldable Playard X-Frame Assembly to Reduce Bulk and Part Count
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional playards are cumbersome to set up and stow away due to complex folding mechanisms, resulting in a bulkier product that is difficult to handle and expensive to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A foldable playard with a simplified frame structure that includes leg support assemblies and X-frame assemblies, allowing for easier folding and unfolding, and a single latch mechanism for secure locking, reducing the number of parts and manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional complex folding mechanisms are used in playards, then the playard can be folded and collapsed, but the playard becomes bulkier and more difficult to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple collapsible assemblies, each comprising leg assemblies and X-frame assemblies that can independently fold and collapse. This segmentation allows the entire playard to be broken down into manageable sections that can be easily stored and transported without creating excessive bulk.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-frame assemblies are designed to nest within the leg assemblies when collapsed, with the X-frames fitting inside the leg assembly structures. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall volume of the folded playard while maintaining the ability to fully collapse the frame for compact storage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional complex folding mechanisms are used in playards, then the playard can be folded and collapsed, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is integrated directly into the X-frame assembly structure, combining the locking function with the structural framework. This merging eliminates the need for separate locking components and simplifies the manufacturing process, reducing overall production costs while maintaining the foldability function.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-frame assemblies serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the playard frame, enable the folding and collapsing mechanism, and incorporate the latch function for securing the assembled structure. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed, simplifying manufacturing and lowering costs.
3Reliability
If multiple latch mechanisms are used to secure the frame, then the frame can be securely locked, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged with the X-frame assembly, where the latch is an integral part of the X-frame structure rather than a separate component. This integration maintains secure locking capability while reducing the total number of discrete parts and simplifying the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The X-frame assembly is designed to automatically engage and disengage the latch mechanism as part of its folding and unfolding motion. This self-service feature eliminates the need for separate manual locking operations and reduces the number of independent components required for secure locking.
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 simplified frame structure makes the playard easier to operate, reduces bulkiness, and lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining mechanical stability and compliance with safety standards.
Implementation Method 1
the X-tubes are rotatably coupled to each other and to leg support assemblies of the frame
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable playard includes a frame defining an interior space when unfolded and soft goods partially disposed within the interior space to define a partially enclosed space for a child to play and/or sleep. The frame includes multiple leg support assemblies and multiple X-frame assemblies that couple adjacent leg support assemblies together. The X-frame assembly is positioned near the top of the frame when the playard is unfolded such that the X-frame assembly functions as a top rail to mechanically reinforce the playard. In this manner, the playard does not include a separate compliant or rigid top rail or a bottom support structure, thus reducing the number of parts for manufacture. Additionally, the playard includes a single latch mechanism to maintain the playard in the unfolded configuration. The playard may also include an optional canopy cover assembly mounted to the frame to provide shade for the child.