Folding mechanism for a portable product
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support frames for portable products require users to stoop, bend, or kneel to fold or unfold them, which is less than desirable in terms of ergonomics, especially for users with back or joint issues.
Innovation Solution
A folding support mechanism with a product support frame, first and second sets of legs, where the second set of legs includes upper and lower folding leg portions that are pivotably connected, allowing for easy transformation between unfolded and folded positions without requiring significant bending or reaching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional folding frames are used, then the frame can be folded and unfolded for transport and storage, but the user must stoop, bend, or kneel to reach the handle or device, which is ergonomically poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the folding operation by positioning the folding handle at an elevated height on the frame structure. This allows users to operate the folding mechanism while standing upright, transforming a horizontal bending motion into a vertical reaching motion that preserves ergonomic posture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a long-reach handle as an intermediary tool that extends the user's reach to the folding mechanism. This intermediary element bridges the gap between the user's hand and the folding pivot point, allowing operation without direct contact and without compromising ergonomic posture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the frame is designed for easy transport and compact storage, then it can be folded, but the folding mechanism requires complex handles or devices that are difficult to reach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the folding handle with the frame structure itself, integrating the operational element into the existing frame geometry. This eliminates the need for separate, complex folding mechanisms and allows the handle to be positioned at an ergonomically accessible height as part of the overall frame design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent repositions the folding mechanism in the vertical dimension, placing the handle at an elevated position on the frame. This dimensional change allows users to access the folding mechanism while standing, transforming an inaccessible low-positioned mechanism into an easily reachable high-positioned mechanism.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the legs are made pivotable for folding, then the frame can transform between unfolded and folded positions, but the connection points may require users to reach low or bend to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the pivot connection points in the vertical dimension, placing them at elevated positions on the frame structure. This allows users to operate the folding mechanism while maintaining an upright posture, transforming a low-positioned pivot system into a high-positioned system that preserves ergonomic alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical linkage or extended handle as an intermediary between the user's hand and the pivot connection point. This intermediary element transmits the user's force to the pivot point while allowing the user to operate from a comfortable, upright position rather than bending or reaching low.
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 folding support mechanism provides improved ergonomics and ease of use by allowing users to fold and unfold the support frame without straining, thus making it more accessible for a wider range of users.
Implementation Method 1
The second set of legs may include upper folding leg portions and lower folding leg portions which are pivotably connected with one another
Implementation Method 2
flanges on at least one of the upper folding leg portions or the lower folding leg portions may prevent over-rotation of the upper folding leg portions relative to the lower folding leg portions
Data Source
AI summary
A folding mechanism for a portable product includes a product support frame. a first set of legs. and a second set of legs. The first set of legs and second set of legs may be pivotably connected with the product support frame and with each other. The second set of legs may further comprise upper folding leg portions and lower folding leg portions pivotably connected with one another. The pivotable connections may allow for rotation of the product support frame. the first set of legs. the upper folding leg portions. and the lower folding leg portions when the folding mechanism is folded and unfolded. When unfolding the folding mechanism. over-rotation stops may prevent rotation of the upper folding leg portions and lower folding leg portions once the folding mechanism reaches an unfolded position. The over-rotation stops may be flanges positioned and located on the upper folding leg portions.