Motorized Infant Chair With Two-Axis Soothing Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant care devices, such as bouncy seats and baby swings, lack the ability to provide simultaneous or independent movement in two dimensions, limiting their ability to mimic the motion profiles of a caregiver, which can be soothing and entertaining for infants.
Innovation Solution
A motorized infant chair with a drive mechanism that includes both horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies, controlled by a controller to produce a variety of motion profiles, allowing for independent movement in both directions, thereby replicating the motion of a parent or caregiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a single degree of motorized freedom is used to move the infant laterally, then the device can provide automated motion, but the motion profiles are limited to only one type
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-degree-of-freedom lateral motion to two-degree-of-freedom motion by adding vertical reciprocating assembly to the horizontal reciprocating assembly. This dimensional expansion enables multiple motion profiles (cradle, swing, bounce, rock) from the same base mechanism, resolving the contradiction between automation and motion profile versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion generation system is segmented into independent horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies, each controlled by separate motors. This segmentation allows independent control of motion dimensions, enabling组合 of different motion patterns to create multiple motion profiles while maintaining automated operation.
2Strength
If a wire frame structure is used to provide resistance to deformation, then the structure can support the child's weight, but the motion is limited to slight and temporary deformation only
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive wire frame deformation mechanism with an active motorized reciprocating system. The horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies use motors, linkages, and scissor mechanisms to generate controlled motion, substituting the limited elastic deformation of wire frames with a mechanical system capable of producing multiple distinct motion profiles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a motorized reciprocating system with two degrees of freedom is implemented, then multiple motion profiles can be generated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the horizontal and vertical reciprocating assemblies into a single integrated drive mechanism that shares common structural elements (base, control system, seat assembly). This consolidation reduces overall system complexity compared to having completely separate systems, while still achieving two-degree-of-freedom motion capability.
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 motorized infant chair can reproduce a range of motion profiles, including horizontal and vertical movements, providing a more effective means of soothing and entertaining infants by mimicking the natural motion of a caregiver, enhancing comfort and entertainment.
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
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.