Stow-Away Playard Changer Frame With Sliding Guide Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current playard designs require additional space outside the unit for storing the changing station when it is not in use, which limits versatility and convenience for caregivers.
Innovation Solution
A sliding mechanism is integrated into the playard's skeleton, allowing the changer frame to move from a first position above the playard to a second position beside it, using a rotatable and slidable connection with a guiding structure, and a snap locking mechanism for secure engagement, enabling storage without external space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the changer is removed or moved to a storage position by rotating it out of the way, then the changer can be stored when not in use, but additional space around the outside of the playard is required for this movement
Solution Approach 1:
The changer frame is nested within the playard structure during storage, positioned between the tray and mount structure. This nesting approach eliminates the need for external storage space while maintaining easy access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The changer frame employs a dynamic sliding mechanism with rails and protrusions that allow smooth movement between operational and storage positions. This dynamic system enables the changer to be easily repositioned within the confined space of the playard without requiring external maneuvering room.
2Area of stationary object
If a sliding mechanism is integrated into the playard's skeleton to store the changer frame without external space, then space efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding structure with protrusions serves multiple functions: it guides the sliding motion of the changer frame, provides structural support, and enables both the sliding and rotating movements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity while achieving space efficiency.
3Area of stationary object
If the changer frame is rotatably and slidably connected to the guiding structure, then the changer can move from first position to second position without external space, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The movement mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the guiding structure with protrusions, the rails on the changer frame, and the snap locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured and assembled separately with standardized tolerances, reducing overall manufacturing precision requirements while enabling complex motion.
Data Source
AI summary
A changer assembly and a playard are disclosed. The changer assembly is adapted for installation on a skeleton of a playard and includes an attachment base and a changer frame. The attachment base includes a mount structure attached to the skeleton and a guiding structure connected to the mount structure and outwardly extended with respect to a circumferential side of the skeleton. The changer frame is rotatably and slidably connected to the guiding structure and detachably engaging with an upper side of the skeleton for being capable of moving from a first position above the upper side to a second position beside the circumferential side by disengaging from the upper side and rotating on and sliding along the guiding structure. Thereby, the playard equipped with the changer assembly needs no additional space outside the playard for storing the changer frame.