Multifunctional crib

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cribs have single functions and lack user-friendly design, failing to meet diverse user requirements.

Innovation Solution

A multifunctional crib with symmetrical left and right support mechanisms, featuring a height-adjustable inner sleeve, rocking housings, a retractable support base, and a detachable upper enclosure frame, allowing for various configurations such as a bed or cradle, and the ability to be positioned close to an adult bed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the crib structure is made fixed and simple, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the functionality is limited to single use

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidstructure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic functionality by allowing the support base to rock back and forth through a rocking mechanism with pivoting connections. This dynamic element enables the crib to transition between different usage states (fixed bed position vs. rocking cradle mode) without requiring completely different structures, thus improving versatility while controlling complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The crib is divided into separable components including a detachable support base, removable side rails, and modular housing sections. This segmentation allows the same components to be reconfigured for different functions (full crib, portable crib, or storage configuration) and enables easy adjustment of functionality without redesigning the entire structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the crib is designed as a fixed bed, then the structure is stable, but it cannot be positioned close to adult beds for parental access

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparental accessVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The support base incorporates a rocking mechanism that allows controlled movement toward and away from adult beds while maintaining stability during use. The base can be positioned close to adult beds for easy parental access, then stabilized in place during infant care activities, resolving the conflict between accessibility and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the crib offers multiple functions and adjustments, then user convenience is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The rocking mechanism is designed to rock automatically when the infant moves or cries, providing soothing motion without requiring parental intervention. The height-adjustable features incorporate simple mechanical locks that users can operate easily. These self-service capabilities improve user convenience without adding complex control systems or multiple adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP4205604B1Multifunctional crib
Publication Date: 2024.04.10 TJ(FUJIAN) IND CO LTD
  • EP4205604B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4205604B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4205604B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A multifunctional crib includes a left support mechanism and a right support mechanism. Each support mechanism includes a support base, a support tube, an inner sleeve, a left housing, a right housing and a connecting rod. The support tube is provided on a top portion of the support base. The inner sleeve is provided in the support tube. The left housing is provided on a top portion of the inner sleeve. The right housing is provided at a right side of the left housing. The connecting rod is provided beneath the right housing. An upper enclosure frame is provided between the right housing of the left support mechanism and the right housing of the right support mechanism. A support frame is provided between a bottom portion of the connecting rod of the left support mechanism and a bottom portion of the connecting rod of the right support mechanism.