Modular Inflatable Walkway With Midline Fasteners for Multi-User Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflatable floating beds are limited in size and functionality, failing to provide adequate support and versatility for multiple users in various aquatic activities.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable device comprising airtight mats with internal support structures and fastening mechanisms that allow multiple mats to be interconnected, forming a floatable walkway or platform of desired length and width, capable of supporting multiple individuals in lying, sitting, or standing positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If existing inflatable floating beds are used, then they are simple and easy to use, but they are limited in size and provide insufficient support for multiple users
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable device is divided into multiple modular sections (first inflatable section, second inflatable section, third inflatable section) that can be connected together. Each section contains its own support structures, and multiple sections can be assembled to create larger platforms capable of supporting multiple users while maintaining structural integrity through connection mechanisms.
2Strength
If the inflatable device is made larger to support multiple users, then support capability improves, but portability and ease of carrying deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into separate inflatable sections that can be independently packed and carried. Users can transport the sections separately and assemble them at the destination, making it easier to carry and store while still enabling the creation of large support surfaces when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable sections are designed to be deflated and nested within each other or stored in compact configurations when not in use, allowing large support structures to be reduced to small, portable packages for easy transport and storage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple inflatable mats are interconnected to form a walkway, then versatility and adaptability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable sections are designed with universal connection features (fastening mechanisms, connection points) that allow them to be assembled in multiple configurations. The same basic sections can be arranged to form walkways, platforms, or other structures, providing versatility without requiring different specialized components for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segmented design allows sections to be easily connected and disconnected through simple fastening mechanisms, reducing assembly complexity despite the ability to create multiple configurations. Each section is a standardized unit that can be quickly assembled with others.
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 solution provides a versatile and supportive aquatic platform that can be easily extended or rearranged for various activities, offering improved support and convenience while being compact and easy to carry when deflated.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable device that may be suitable for various aquatic activities
Implementation Method 2
floatation device capable of supporting multiple individuals
Data Source
AI summary
An inflatable device is disclosed. The inflatable device includes an airtight inflatable mat. The airtight inflatable mat has a first surface member, a second surface member and at least one side member. A plurality of support structures is substantially evenly disposed internally within the airtight inflatable mat. Each support structure is generally parallel to each other and is coupled to the first surface member and the second surface member of the airtight inflatable mat. Furthermore, a plurality of fastening mechanisms is disposed on the at least one side member of the airtight inflatable mat. The fastening mechanisms are positioned on a plane substantially centrally located between the first surface member and the second surface member, and each fastening mechanism is configured for removably connecting with another fastening mechanism disposed on a side member of another airtight inflatable mat.