Folding Child Support Frame for Close-Access Indoor Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant and child support devices, such as high-chairs, bassinets, and strollers, often hinder caregiver interaction due to inadequate support height, limited mobility, and interference from components, making it difficult to position the child in close proximity for easy access and interaction, especially in interior spaces with tight furniture arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device with a folding frame and adjustable support component that maintains the child at a height of 21″ to 36″ above the floor, allowing for easy mobility and interaction, featuring a wrap-around handle for improved maneuverability and a seat that can be reclined or inclined for optimal positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the support height is increased to enable caregiver interaction while seated, then ease of interaction is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support height is made adjustable through a telescoping leg mechanism with multiple height positions, allowing the device to adapt between low-profile mode for portability and elevated mode for caregiver interaction at seated height
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into telescoping segments that can extend and retract, enabling height adjustment without requiring complex mechanical assemblies or multiple discrete components
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional support devices are used, then structural stability is improved, but they interfere with positioning the child close to the caregiver
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is segmented into collapsible sections that can be compacted to a minimal footprint, removing interference with close positioning while maintaining stability when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The frame transitions between extended stable configuration during use and compact folded configuration for positioning close to caregiver, eliminating interference while preserving structural integrity
3Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact for interior use, then ease of mobility is improved, but the support height is reduced limiting caregiver interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The device exhibits dynamic volume characteristics, compact when folded for interior navigation and expanded to provide adequate support height for interaction when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping legs nest within each other when retracted, minimizing device volume for mobility while allowing full extension to achieve appropriate support height for caregiver interaction
Data Source
AI summary
A child support device including a folding frame having front legs and rear legs, and a hub pivotally coupling upper ends of the front and rear legs to move between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. The hub includes a first coupling element. The device further includes a support component having a second coupling element releasably engageable with the first coupling element, for detachably mounting the support component to the frame. The support component is optionally a dual-mode support, usable in a first mode of use mounted to the frame, and in a second mode of use independent of the frame.