Modular Dunk Tank with Gravity-Reset Seat and Target Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dunk tank devices are expensive, large, complex, and not suitable for home use, lacking accessibility and ease of installation for regular consumers.
Innovation Solution
A recreational device with a frame, seat pivot joint, and target mechanism that allows users to be displaced into a pool upon activation, featuring a reset spring or gravity-driven return, and a force transition system for easy operation and reset, designed for home use with a focus on economy and simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dunk tank devices are used, then the dunking function is achieved, but the device becomes expensive and unsuitable for home use
Solution Approach 1:
The dunk tank device is divided into separate modular components including a base unit with water container, a separate seat assembly with target mechanism, and interchangeable game elements. This segmentation allows manufacturing of simpler, less expensive individual parts that can be assembled at home, directly addressing the cost barrier while maintaining the dunking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive materials and simplified construction methods for components subject to wear or replacement, such as the target, seat cushion, and game objects. This approach reduces overall manufacturing cost while maintaining functionality, making the device economically viable for home use rather than commercial venues.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dunk tank devices are used, then the dunking function is achieved, but the device becomes large and complex
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the dunk tank into modular components (base unit, seat assembly, target mechanism), the patent reduces the complexity of individual parts while maintaining the overall dunking function. Each module can be manufactured and assembled independently, simplifying construction compared to traditional integrated designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional dunk tank design by placing the water container on the ground (base unit) rather than elevating the entire structure. The seat is positioned above the water container through a simple vertical support structure, reversing the conventional approach and reducing structural complexity while achieving the same dunking effect.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dunk tank devices are used, then the dunking function is achieved, but invasive and complex installation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The modular segmented design allows the dunk tank to be assembled from pre-manufactured components without requiring invasive installation. The base unit, seat assembly, and target mechanism can be connected through simple mechanical interfaces, enabling easy setup in various locations without structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the base unit with a stable ground-level position and the seat assembly with adjustable height mechanisms, allowing the device to be installed on various surfaces and terrains without requiring precise leveling or anchoring. This equipotential design approach simplifies installation by making the system adaptable to different installation environments.
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
Provides an economical, accessible, and easy-to-install recreational device for home use, allowing users to be safely and efficiently displaced into a pool with automatic reset, enhancing user experience and market suitability.
Implementation Method 1
a reset spring operatively connected to the seat and to the frame such that the reset spring applies a force to the seat to return the seat to the first position
Implementation Method 2
the seat having a center of mass located between the seat pivot joint and the second end such that the seat is configured to return to a first position under the effect of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A recreational device is disclosed that includes a frame, a seat having a user supporting seat portion adapted to support a user to be displaced from the seat upon activation of a target mechanism, with the seat configured to return to a first position under the effect of gravity after the user is displaced from the seat. Embodiments of the device include a seat support configured to maintain the seat in the first position to release the seat allowing the seat to pivot upon activation of the target mechanism to displace the user from the seat The device also includes a target mechanism connected to the seat support by a force transition system configured to transfer a force applied to the target mechanism to the seat support causing the seat support to release the seat and displace a user from the seat.