Foldable Step Stool with Dual-Slider Child-Proof Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current foldable step stools do not meet children's safety standards, posing a risk of pinching during use.
Innovation Solution
A foldable locking step stool with a child-proof locking mechanism that requires simultaneous operation of two slider elements to unlock, ensuring the stool can only be folded safely by adults.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the stool is made foldable to reduce storage footprint, then storage convenience is improved, but the risk of accidental folding by children increases creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the folding structure and the user. The mechanism includes a locking bolt that engages with a locking slot, and a slider element that must be actuated to release the lock. This intermediary device prevents direct access to the folding joints by children while still allowing adults to fold the stool when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent components: a locking bolt, a locking slot, and a slider element. These segments work together but can be independently analyzed and manufactured. The segmentation allows the locking function to be integrated into the existing folding structure without requiring a complete redesign of the stool.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental folding, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism components are merged with the existing stool structure. The locking bolt is integrated into one leg member, the locking slot is formed in the stool platform, and the slider element is attached to another leg member. This merging approach allows the locking function to be added without requiring separate, standalone components, thereby minimizing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the natural folding motion of the stool. When the stool is folded, the leg members move in a way that automatically engages the locking bolt with the locking slot. The spring element provides automatic biasing to ensure the lock engages without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
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
Prevents accidental folding by children, enhancing safety by requiring coordinated effort to unlock the mechanism, thus preventing finger pinching injuries.
Implementation Method 1
the spring is configured to bias the locking bolt within the slot such that the child-proof locking mechanism is biased in the locked position
Implementation Method 2
the latch is attached to the underside of a slider element and the locking bolt is configured to fit within a slot
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable locking step stool includes a stool platform configured to hingedly fold into a first stool platform member and a second stool platform member. The stool has a child-proof locking mechanism preventing a child from pinching their fingers when the stool platform folds. The child-proof locking mechanism includes a pair of slider elements required to be engaged simultaneously to release a pair of locking bolts enabling the folding of the stool. Overmolded grips ensure traction during use. An integrated handle is hidden when the stool is in use, but accessible when moving or stowing the stool.