Personal flotation device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional personal flotation devices (PFDs) are limited in their versatility and do not accommodate the needs for use in various configurations, such as forming a seat, raft, or multiple flotation devices, and lack provisions for beverages and pets.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose personal flotation device configured with a horseshoe-shaped float, pet pad, insulated storage case, and adjustable straps that can form different floating configurations, including a seat, raft, and multiple flotation devices, while allowing for beverage retention and pet support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional personal flotation device is used, then it provides basic buoyancy, but it lacks versatility and cannot be used in multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The flotation device is divided into multiple detachable components including a horseshoe-shaped float, pet pad, insulated storage case, and adjustable straps. These segmented parts can be independently configured to create different floating structures (seat, raft, or multiple flotation devices) depending on the activity needs, thereby enhancing versatility without permanently increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flotation device is designed as a multipurpose system where the same set of components can be assembled into different configurations for various water-based activities. The horseshoe-shaped float serves as a base for both seat and raft configurations, while the adjustable straps and pet pad can be attached or removed based on requirements, allowing one device to fulfill multiple functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional personal flotation device is used, then it maintains simple structure, but it lacks provisions for beverages and pets
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functional elements into a single integrated flotation system. The insulated storage case for beverages is combined with the flotation components, and the pet pad is integrated into the overall structure. This merging allows the device to provide buoyancy, beverage storage, and pet support within a unified design rather than requiring separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The flotation device incorporates adjustable and detachable components that can be dynamically reconfigured. The adjustable straps can be tightened or loosened, the pet pad can be attached or removed, and the storage case can be positioned differently, allowing the structure to adapt to various needs without being permanently complex.
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 device provides enhanced versatility and safety for users and pets by offering multiple floating configurations, beverage retention, and secure buoyancy, making it suitable for various water-based activities and emergency situations.
Implementation Method 1
The personal flotation device is a device that provides buoyancy during water based activities
Implementation Method 2
An insulated storage case
Data Source
AI summary
A personal flotation system provides a horseshoe shaped float that is buoyant and can be used in a number or positions to float a person on the water and retain a beverage. The horseshoe shaped flotation device has a left and right armrest that extend out from an arced shaped closed end and dual cup holder, on the extended end of the armrest, has an cup cylinder to retain a beverage in the vertical orientation and an end cup holder to retain a beverage in an orthogonal orientation to the cup cylinder. The flotation device may have an extending strap that couples the left and right armrests together to secure the horseshoe shaped float around a person's torso.