Modular Neck Support Frame for Splash-Controlled Hair Washing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hair washing support structures for humans, particularly children, lack comfort and effective liquid containment, leading to discomfort and potential wetting of surfaces below the neck during hair treatments.

Innovation Solution

A modular support apparatus comprising interconnected PVC pipes and optional resilient materials or suction cups, designed to form a comfortable neck and head rest that can be used on countertops, sinks, bathtubs, or cribs, with adjustable dimensions and features for enhanced stability and moisture control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a traditional sink with depressed rim is used, then liquid containment is improved, but comfort and stability for the person being bathed deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveliquid splashingVSAvoidcomfort
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support apparatus is divided into multiple segments: a base section and an upper section, both with open rectangular configurations. This segmentation allows the structure to be adapted to different body sizes and provides both stability and comfort, resolving the contradiction between liquid containment and comfort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The upper section includes a depressed portion specifically shaped to support the neck and head, while the base section provides a broader stable foundation. This local differentiation of support quality provides both comfort at the contact point and stability overall, while maintaining liquid containment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid support structure is used, then stability is improved, but adaptability to different age groups and surfaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestabilityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support apparatus incorporates resilient material that allows dynamic adjustment to different body weights and surface types. This dynamic property enables the same structure to provide stable support for infants on countertops, children in bathtubs, or adults on various surfaces, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The dimensions of the open rectangular base and upper sections can be varied to accommodate different age groups and application scenarios. By changing the dimensional parameters while maintaining the fundamental structure, the apparatus achieves both stability and versatility across different use cases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the support apparatus is designed for infants, then comfort is improved, but applicability to older children and adults deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecomfortVSAvoidversatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support apparatus is designed as a universal device that can serve multiple age groups and application scenarios. The open rectangular base with resilient material provides comfortable support for infants on countertops, while the same basic structure can accommodate older children in bathtubs or adults on various surfaces, achieving both comfort and versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7673356B1Head and neck support apparatus
Publication Date: 2010.03.09 CONYERS CHRISTIE C
  • US7673356B1 patent drawing
  • US7673356B1 patent drawing
  • US7673356B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A flexible tubular frame, comprising an upper section and a lower section, supports a person's neck and head for hygienic, therapeutic, or cosmetic purposes. The upper section has a depressed portion shaped for supporting a person's neck when the person lies within the open ends of the base frame and the upper frame.