Nursery equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nursery equipment requires complex structures and both hands to adjust the length of body restraint straps and reclining angles, making it difficult to use simply and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A nursery equipment design featuring a string and reel mechanism with a one-way clutch and unlock system that allows for easy adjustment of the position or shape of movable portions, such as shoulder straps and ISOFIX latches, using a simple and intuitive operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used for straps and reclining angles, then adjustment functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment functions (strap length adjustment and reclining angle adjustment) into a single integrated reel mechanism. The reel can rotate to wind or unwind a string, simultaneously controlling both the strap length and the reclining angle of the seat, thereby reducing the number of separate adjustment mechanisms and simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel mechanism incorporates a one-way clutch that automatically locks the reel in the winding direction while allowing free rotation in the unwinding direction. This self-locking feature eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms or complex control systems, enabling simple single-handed operation where the user only needs to rotate the reel to achieve adjustment.
2Productivity
If both hands are required for adjustment operations, then adjustment precision may be improved, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way clutch mechanism automatically performs the locking function without requiring user intervention. When the reel is rotated to wind the string, the clutch engages to prevent unwinding; when the reel needs to be rotated in the unwinding direction, the clutch automatically disengages. This self-service locking mechanism enables rapid single-handed adjustment operations.
3Measurement precision
If complex adjustment mechanisms are used, then adjustment precision may be improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple adjustment functions into a single reel mechanism with a one-way clutch. The reel's rotation directly controls the string length, which simultaneously adjusts both the strap length and the reclining angle. This integrated approach achieves precise control through a simple mechanical mechanism rather than multiple complex independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way clutch provides automatic feedback control by engaging when the reel is rotated in the winding direction and disengaging when rotation in the unwinding direction is attempted. This automatic feedback mechanism ensures precise positioning without requiring complex control systems or multiple adjustment components.
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
Enables single-handed adjustment of strap lengths and reclining angles, improving usability and simplifying the operation of nursery equipment without compromising safety or stability.
Implementation Method 1
a one-way clutch mechanism that allows rotation of the reel in a winding direction of the string and prohibits rotation of the reel in a feeding direction of the string
Implementation Method 2
a biasing member that biases the reel in the winding direction of the string
Implementation Method 3
the one-way clutch mechanism includes an engagement tooth located on one of the reel and the holder, and an engagement pawl attached to the other of the reel and the holder, the engagement pawl being movable between an engaged position in which the engagement pawl engages with the one of the reel and the holder and a disengaged position in which the engagement pawl does not engage with the one of the reel and the holder
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment mechanism of nursery equipment includes a string connecting a fixed portion and a movable portion, a reel that is rotatable in both forward and reverse directions and that changes the position or shape of the movable portion by winding up and feeding out the string, a one-way clutch mechanism that allows rotation of the reel in a winding direction of the string and prohibits rotation of the reel in a feeding direction of the string, and an unlock member that unlocks the reel from a rotation prohibited state caused by the one-way clutch mechanism and thus allows the reel to rotate freely