Multipurpose Flotation Assembly for Human, Pet, and Storage Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current personal flotation devices (PFDs) are limited in their multipurpose functionality, particularly in providing buoyancy for both humans and pets during water-based activities, and lack integrated storage solutions for food and beverages.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose personal flotation device comprising a pet pad, float, insulated storage case, and dry storage container, interconnected by straps, which can form a seat, raft, or multiple flotation devices, providing buoyancy and storage while allowing for secure attachment to a small watercraft or use as an emergency PFD.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current personal flotation devices are used, then buoyancy for humans is provided, but buoyancy for pets and integrated storage solutions are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single flotation device system that serves multiple functions: providing buoyancy for both humans and pets simultaneously, and incorporating integrated storage compartments for food and beverages. The device structure includes human flotation portions, pet flotation portions, and storage compartments all interconnected in one unified system, eliminating the need for separate devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate functions into a single integrated device. The human flotation device and pet flotation device are combined into one interconnected system, and storage compartments are merged into the same structure. This consolidation achieves multipurpose functionality while managing device complexity through integrated design rather than separate components.
2Reliability
If multiple separate flotation devices are used for humans and pets, then buoyancy is provided for each, but device complexity and lack of integration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate flotation devices into a single integrated system. The human flotation portions and pet flotation portions are connected through a unified structure with shared buoyant elements and interconnected components. This merging maintains reliable buoyancy provision for both humans and pets while reducing the total number of separate devices from two or more to one integrated system.
3Ease of operation
If storage solutions are added to flotation devices, then convenience is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges storage functionality directly into the flotation device structure. Storage compartments are integrated into the same body as the flotation portions, utilizing the same buoyant materials and structural framework. This integration provides storage convenience without requiring separate attached components, thereby managing device complexity through unified design rather than added attachments.
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 device effectively keeps both humans and pets afloat while offering storage solutions, enhancing safety and convenience during water activities by providing a versatile and integrated flotation and storage system.
Implementation Method 1
The personal flotation device is a device that provides buoyancy during water based activities
Data Source
AI summary
The personal flotation device is adapted for use with a person and a pet. The personal floatation device is configured for use with water. The personal flotation device provides buoyancy during water based activities. The personal flotation device is a multipurpose device that: 1) forms a seat; 2) forms a raft; and, 3) forms a plurality of flotation devices. The plurality of flotation devices are suitable for use by the person and the pet. The personal flotation device comprises a pet pad, a float, an insulated storage case, a dry storage container, and a plurality of straps. The plurality of flotation devices comprises the pet pad and the float. The plurality of straps interconnect the pet pad, the float, the insulated storage case, and the dry storage container to form the seat and the raft portions of the personal flotation device.