Modular Infant Carrier Assembly for Seamless Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant transport systems, such as those combining car seats and strollers, lack flexibility in configuration options and often require complex or cumbersome transitions between modes of use.
Innovation Solution
A modular infant transport system comprising a base, chassis, and shell that can be easily converted between a car seat, carrier, and stroller, utilizing release mechanisms to facilitate seamless transitions and multiple configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with multiple components (base, chassis, shell) is used to increase configuration options, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infant transport system is divided into three main segments: a base, a chassis, and a shell. Each segment can be independently assembled and disassembled, allowing the system to be configured in multiple ways (car seat mode, carrier mode, stroller mode). The base remains stationary while the chassis and shell can be repositioned or removed, enabling versatile configurations without requiring a completely different design for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis serves multiple functions across different transport modes. It can be attached to the base for car seat use, detached and used with the shell for carrier use, or configured with legs extended for stroller use. This multi-functional design allows a single component to fulfill various roles, increasing adaptability while managing complexity through functional integration.
2Ease of operation
If release mechanisms are added to enable easy transitions between modes, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanisms are designed as separate, extractable components that can be independently operated. The first release mechanism allows the chassis and shell to be detached from the base, while the second release mechanism enables the shell to be separated from the chassis. By extracting these release functions into distinct mechanisms, the patent simplifies the operation of mode transitions while managing overall system complexity through modular release components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the chassis is made independently movable relative to the base, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis is designed with dynamic coupling to the base through the first release mechanism, allowing it to be easily attached and detached. This dynamic connection enables the chassis to move independently relative to the base when needed (for mode conversions) while maintaining a stable connection during use. The leg structure also incorporates dynamic elements that can be extended or retracted to adapt between carrier and stroller modes, providing versatility without permanent complex structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A system to transport infant children usable as an integrated unit or with a universal tower attachment system is provided that includes a base configured to be secured to a portion of an automobile; a chassis releasably coupled to the base; and a shell. The shell includes a frame configured to support an infant; a carrying handle movably coupled to the frame at a hub; a first latch operable to selectively, releasably couple the shell to the chassis; and a second latch adjacent the hub to selectively, releasably couple the shell to the tower attachment system. The shell may be selectively coupled to the chassis or to the tower attachment system.