Hinged Floatation Device for Compact Storage and Versatile Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a versatile, cost-effective, and convenient recreational floatation device that can be adapted for multiple uses, suitable for adults and youths, and can be easily stored, transported, and used in various aquatic environments.
Innovation Solution
A hinged floatation device comprising two buoyant panels with pivotable connections, allowing for multiple positional adjustments from a compact folded position to a fully deployed position, enabling users to float in different orientations and shapes, and formed from materials like closed-cell foam.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional rigid floatation device is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but storage and transport convenience deteriorates due to bulkiness
Solution Approach 1:
The floatation device is divided into multiple rigid panels connected by hinge joints, allowing the structure to be segmented into collapsible sections that can be folded together for compact storage while maintaining structural integrity when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic collapsible structure through hinge joints that enable the panels to fold and unfold, allowing the same structure to provide both structural integrity during use and compact volume during storage
2Ease of manufacture
If a single fixed-position floatation device is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but versatility deteriorates due to limited positioning options
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge joints enable the floatation device to dynamically adjust between multiple positions (folded, partially deployed, fully deployed), providing positioning versatility while maintaining a simple manufacturing process using basic rigid panels and hinge connections
3Volume of moving object
If a compact folded position is implemented, then storage convenience is improved, but device complexity increases due to hinge mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses segmented rigid panels connected by simple hinge joints, where each panel remains structurally simple but the assembly provides collapsibility through the segmented configuration rather than complex internal mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
While the panels themselves are rigid, the hinge connections allow the overall structure to flex and collapse into a compact form, achieving flexibility in configuration without requiring flexible or thin materials that would compromise structural integrity
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 hinged floatation device provides versatility, comfort, and convenience by allowing users to change positions easily, maintaining buoyancy and structural integrity while being lightweight and easy to store and transport.
Implementation Method 1
a first floatation panel (4) and a second floatation panel (6)... each having a longitudinal length (8) which exceeds that lateral width (10) of the floatation panel (4, 6)
Data Source
AI summary
A hinged floatation device in which the two end portions of one elongate floatation panel are pivotably attached to the two end portions of another elongate floatation panel such that the floatation panels can be pivoted with respect to each other from a compact storage and carrying positioned, where one panel lies substantially flat against the other, to various deployed positions in which the two panels bow outwardly away from each other for sitting in the device while floating, laying on the device while floating, or floating in a vertical position with the device positioned around the user's torso.