Platform mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing stowable platforms for limited spaces like RVs and micro homes are often complicated to assemble, prone to jamming, or require multiple steps to transition between use and stored positions, lacking a seamless single-motion operation.
Innovation Solution
A stowable platform with an L-shaped channel frame and offset center of gravity, utilizing rollers that pivot and slide to transition between positions, potentially powered by a motor-driven screw mechanism for efficient movement between stored and use positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional components and multiple steps are used to move the platform between stored and use positions, then the platform can be stowed away and out of sight, but the assembly becomes complicated and operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the translation and rotation movements into a single integrated mechanism. The L-shaped channel design allows the platform to simultaneously achieve both linear movement (translation) and angular movement (rotation) through one continuous motion, eliminating the need for separate components and steps for each movement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The L-shaped channel is divided into two functional segments: a first portion that guides linear translation and a second portion that guides rotational movement. This segmentation of the guidance path allows the platform to transition smoothly between stored and use positions through a single motion while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple steps are used to transition the platform between positions, then the platform can be properly positioned, but the operation requires multiple steps and is not seamless
Solution Approach 1:
The platform transition is achieved through continuous motion without interruption or intermediate steps. The L-shaped channel design ensures that the platform moves seamlessly from the stored position to the use position in a single continuous action, eliminating idle time and multiple operation steps.
3Device complexity
If the platform uses a simple sliding mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the platform is prone to jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism transitions from a simple static sliding path to a dynamic L-shaped channel that adapts the guidance direction. The channel's geometry changes to first guide linear motion and then guide rotational motion, allowing the platform to pivot smoothly at the end of translation without jamming, while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
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 a seamless single-motion transition between stored and use positions, reducing complexity and the risk of jamming, while accommodating various space configurations with adjustable components.
Implementation Method 1
The center of gravity for the platform is offset from the channels. The offset center of gravity puts the uppermost rollers in biased contact with one side of the channels.
Implementation Method 2
A motor may be implemented to rotate screws that are attached to one of the rollers to move the platform between the stored and use positions.
Data Source
AI summary
A stowable platform is connected to a frame with a first and second trolley, each trolley is moveable inside a channel and has an upper and lower roller. The lower rollers are tied to a mechanism that moves them in the channels in a linear motion. The upper rollers are in contact with one side of the channel from the offset center of gravity in the platform. The platform moves between a stored position defined by the lower roller near a terminal end of the channel and a use position defined by the upper roller located in an overhanging end of the channel and the lower roller closer to the overhanging end than the terminal end.