Folding Step Stool Structure to Prevent Accidental Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Older or less mobile individuals face difficulties in stepping out of higher vehicles due to the lack of a suitable, compact, and easy-to-handle step stool that occupies less space.
Innovation Solution
A folding step stool design featuring a foldable top wall and side walls, with a supporting member that hinges along multiple axes to allow for compact storage and easy deployment, incorporating ramps to prevent accidental folding during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional stool is provided to help individuals step out of vehicles, then it provides stepping support, but it occupies a lot of space and is cumbersome to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The stool is divided into multiple hinged sections that can fold relative to each other. The top surface is segmented into multiple panels connected by hinges, allowing the stool to collapse into a compact configuration for easy storage while maintaining full size when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The stool transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with movable hinged joints. This allows the stool to change its configuration between a fully extended stable state for use and a collapsed compact state for storage, adapting to different operational requirements.
2Volume of moving object
If a folding mechanism is added to reduce storage space, then the stool becomes more compact, but it may accidentally fold during use
Solution Approach 1:
Ramps are positioned to prevent the hinged sections from folding inward during use. These ramps create a mechanical barrier that counteracts any force that might cause accidental folding, ensuring the stool remains stable throughout its operational life.
Solution Approach 2:
The potential harmful effect of the hinged joints folding accidentally is converted into a beneficial feature by using the same hinge mechanism to provide controlled folding for compact storage. The ramps ensure that folding only occurs when intended, transforming a reliability risk into a functional advantage.
3Volume of moving object
If multiple hinged sections are used to enable compact folding, then the stool becomes space-efficient, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple hinged sections and folding mechanisms are merged into a unified structure where the same joints serve both structural support and folding functions. This integration reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall construction despite the multi-section design.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinged joints serve multiple functions: providing structural support when extended, enabling compact folding when collapsed, and working in conjunction with ramps to prevent accidental folding. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding step stool includes a foldable top wall including a first section hingeably coupled to a second section along a first axis. A first side wall is hingeably coupled to the first section. A second side wall is hingeably coupled to the second section. A third foldable side wall is hingeably coupled to the first side wall and the second side wall. A fourth foldable side is hingeably coupled to the first side wall and to the second side wall. A foldable supporting member includes a first section hingeably coupled to the foldable top wall first section and a second section hingeably coupled to the foldable top wall second section.