Infant care apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant care devices, such as bouncy seats and baby swings, are limited in their ability to replicate the complex motion profiles of a caregiver, often providing only single-dimensional motorized motion, which restricts their ability to effectively soothe and entertain infants.
Innovation Solution
A motorized infant chair with a drive mechanism that allows simultaneous or independent movement in both horizontal and vertical directions, utilizing a combination of horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies controlled by a controller to generate a variety of motion profiles that mimic the motion of a parent or caregiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-degree motorized motion is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability of motion profiles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-degree freedom (one-dimensional motion) to two-degree freedom (two-dimensional motion) by adding both horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies. This dimensional expansion enables diverse motion profiles including circular, elliptical, and combined movements, directly resolving the contradiction between motion profile variety and device complexity by providing multi-dimensional movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is segmented into independent horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies, each controlled by separate motors. This segmentation allows independent control of horizontal and vertical motions, enabling complex motion profiles through combination of simpler individual motions, thus achieving high adaptability while managing device complexity through modular design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wire frame structure is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the motion capability is limited to simple deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive wire frame deformation mechanism with an active motorized reciprocating system. Instead of relying on elastic deformation of a wire frame, the invention uses motor-driven crank and scissor mechanisms to generate controlled horizontal and vertical motions, thereby achieving sophisticated motion capability while maintaining structural integrity through engineered mechanical assemblies.
3Productivity
If automated power-assist mechanism is added, then the productivity of soothing motion is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized reciprocating system serves multiple functions: it provides automated soothing motion, enables various motion profiles (circular, elliptical, reciprocating), and can be controlled through electronic interfaces. This multi-functionality justifies the increased device complexity by delivering superior productivity and versatility compared to simpler mechanical systems.
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 can reproduce a range of motion profiles, including both horizontal and vertical movements, providing more effective soothing and entertainment for infants by replicating the natural motion of a caregiver, thereby enhancing comfort and engagement.
Implementation Method 1
a first motor having a drive shaft; a slide crank assembly comprising a gearing assembly coupled to the drive shaft of the first motor
Implementation Method 2
a second motor having a drive shaft; a worm gear assembly coupled to the output of the drive shaft; and a vertical yoke having a first end coupled to an output shaft of the worm gear assembly
Implementation Method 3
a worm gear assembly coupled to the output of the drive shaft; and a vertical yoke having a first end coupled to an output shaft of the worm gear assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An infant care apparatus includes a base; a drive mechanism disposed on the base; a controller electronically coupled to the drive mechanism; and a support device coupled to the drive mechanism. The support device is configured to be moved in both a horizontal and vertical direction relative to the base by the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is controlled by the controller to move the support device in a plurality of motion profiles relative to the base.