Portable Rocking Robot for Prams Using Segmented Linear Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of portable, universally applicable devices that can automatically rock prams, strollers, or wheeled cots to help soothe babies, as existing solutions are either not adaptable to different types of equipment or increase weight, size, and cost, making them difficult to transport and use.
Innovation Solution
A portable robot device that generates an alternating linear motion using a motor-driven mechanism, coupled with sensors and electronics for semi-automatic or fully automatic operation, allowing it to be easily attached to various prams, strollers, or wheeled cots, and powered by low voltage for safe and versatile use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized mechanism is integrated into the pram for automatic rocking, then the baby can be automatically soothed, but the weight, size, and cost of the pram increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic rocking function is separated from the pram structure. Instead of integrating the motor into the pram, the invention uses a separate portable device that couples to thepram's existing handle or frame. This segmentation allows the pram to remain lightweight while the automated function is provided by an external unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary coupling mechanism that connects the portable automated rocking device to thepram. This intermediary allows the transmission of rocking motion without requiring direct integration, thus avoiding the need to modify or add weight to thepram's core structure.
2Extent of automation
If a motorized mechanism is integrated into the pram for automatic rocking, then the baby can be automatically soothed, but the pram becomes less portable and easier to transport
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the automated rocking function into a distinct portable unit, the pram itself remains simple and easy to maneuver. The automated device can be attached or detached as needed, maintaining thepram's inherent portability while adding automated functionality when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration where the automated rocking device can be coupled to thepram when needed and removed when not needed. This dynamic attachment/detachment capability ensures thepram remains as portable as possible while providing automated functionality on demand.
3Extent of automation
If a motorized mechanism is integrated into the pram for automatic rocking, then the baby can be automatically soothed, but the device is not adaptable to different types of baby equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The portable automated rocking device is designed with universal coupling mechanisms that can interface with various types of baby equipment including prams, strollers, and wheeled cots. The device uses standardized attachment points and adjustable mounting options to work across different equipment types without requiring model-specific integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable parameters such as coupling position, arm length, and oscillation amplitude to adapt to different baby equipment configurations. By allowing these parameters to be modified, the same automated rocking device can effectively work with various types of prams and strollers with different geometries and weight distributions.
4Extent of automation
If sensors and automatic detection systems are added to detect baby's restlessness, then the device can operate fully automatically, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates simple sensors that detect baby movement and feed this information back to the control system. When movement is detected indicating restlessness, the system automatically adjusts or resumes rocking. This feedback loop enables fully automatic operation with relatively simple sensing and control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated rocking device monitors the baby's state and self-adjusts its operation without requiring parental intervention. The system uses basic motion sensors to detect when the baby needs soothing and automatically initiates or modifies the rocking motion, providing self-service functionality with minimal complexity.
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 calms babies by simulating natural rocking motions, is lightweight and easy to transport, adaptable to various baby equipment, and safe due to low voltage operation, allowing parents to attend to other tasks while ensuring the baby's comfort.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism, no matter how it is made, for example by gears/connecting rod-crank system/prefabricated actuator, moved by a motor
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Robot device generating an alternating linear motion for automatically moving, by translation, back and forth any type of stroller/cradle for babies/children, comprising at least one electric motor connected to a gear speed reducer, which reducer is connected to an actuator converting the rotational motion into an alternating linear back and forth motion, said device comprising at least one pivotable arm, which arm is connected with one end thereof to said actuating device (F), while said pivotable arm is provided at the other end with means for coupling to said stroller/cradle.