Multipurpose step stool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-step stools occupy excessive space during transport and storage due to their large, integrally formed structure, and they lack flexibility in usage as they are not easily convertible into single stools.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose step stool design featuring a detachable low stool and high stool configuration, where the low stool fits into a cavity of the high stool, allowing for compact storage and flexible use as separate stools or booster stools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multi-step stools are integrally formed, then structural stability is improved, but storage space and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool is divided into multiple detachable components including a high stool body, a low stool, and connecting components with locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows the stool to be disassembled into smaller parts for compact storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled through the locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The low stool is designed to be placed inside the accommodating cavity of the high stool when not in use, creating a nested configuration. This nesting approach minimizes the overall storage volume while keeping all components organized and secure.
2Strength
If multi-step stools are integrally formed, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility in usage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool system is segmented into separate high stool and low stool units that can be used independently or combined. This allows flexible adaptation to different usage scenarios - whether one child needs the high stool, another needs the low stool, or they are combined for adult use, while each component maintains sufficient structural strength for its intended load.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting components incorporate detachable locking mechanisms that allow the structure to dynamically transition between assembled and disassembled states. This dynamic capability enables the stool to adapt its configuration based on usage needs while maintaining structural strength when locked together.
3Length of stationary object
If multi-step stools are large in size, then step height for reaching high objects is improved, but portability and ease of transport deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The step stool is segmented into a high stool component that provides the necessary height for reaching objects, and a separate low stool component. When not in use, these segments can be detached and stored separately or nested, dramatically improving portability while the high stool component alone maintains the required step height for its intended purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The low stool nests within the high stool's accommodating cavity, creating a compact portable configuration that fits in small spaces like car trunks or closets, while still providing the full step height capability when deployed.
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose step stool includes a low stool and a high stool. The high stool is arranged behind the low stool. The high stool has a first accommodating cavity with a bottom opening. A size of the first accommodating cavity is equivalent to a size of the low stool. A front end surface of the high stool is provided with an accommodating opening. The accommodating opening is adapted to the back of the low stool. The back of the low stool is located in the accommodating opening and is detachably connected to the high stool. The present invention has a novel structure and ingenious design. The size of the first accommodating cavity is equivalent to the size of the low stool, and the back of the low stool is located in the accommodating opening and is detachably connected to the high stool.