Portable Spring-Based Rebounding Device for Space-Efficient Rocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional rocking solutions are limited in their portability, versatility, and flexibility, requiring large spaces, being expensive, and not easily adaptable for use with existing furniture, which restricts their utility, especially for individuals needing to rock an infant while seated or in small spaces.
Innovation Solution
A portable rebounding device with a spring mechanism between a front and rear member, allowing users to position it against a stationary surface, providing a gentle rocking motion with minimal effort, and compatible with various furniture types, including beds and chairs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional rocking furniture is used, then rocking function is provided, but portability and flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rocking device is divided into separate components: a rebounding element (spring mechanism), a positioning element (with non-slip base), and a housing. This segmentation allows the device to be portable and adaptable to different locations while still providing the rocking function when assembled and positioned against a stationary surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The rebounding device is designed to work with various stationary surfaces (walls, furniture, railings) and can be used in multiple locations. The positioning element with non-slip base ensures universal applicability across different surfaces, making the device versatile and adaptable to different environments rather than being limited to specific furniture pieces.
2Ease of operation
If conventional rocking furniture is used, then rocking function is provided, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring horizontal floor space, the device utilizes vertical space by positioning the rebounding element against a stationary surface (wall, furniture back, railing). This dimensional shift allows the rocking function to be achieved without occupying additional floor area, making it suitable for small spaces.
3Ease of operation
If conventional rocking furniture is used, then rocking function is provided, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rebounding device uses simple, inexpensive components: a spring mechanism, a housing, and a positioning element with non-slip base. These are much cheaper to manufacture than conventional rocking furniture (rocking chairs, gliders), providing an affordable alternative that sacrifices some durability for significant cost reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical systems of conventional rocking furniture (hinged joints, rockers, glider mechanisms) are replaced with a simple spring-based rebounding mechanism. This substitution dramatically reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the essential rocking function.
4Ease of manufacture
If prolonged rocking in seated position is performed without external device, then no equipment cost is incurred, but muscle and joint strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism automatically provides the rebounding force needed for rocking motion. Once positioned against a stationary surface, the device self-generates the rocking action through the spring's elastic properties, eliminating the need for continuous manual effort and reducing muscle and joint strain.
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 offers a comfortable, repeatable bouncing motion that reduces strain on the body, is easily portable, and can be used with existing furniture, providing a cost-effective solution for rocking assistance.
Implementation Method 1
The rebounding device includes a spring mechanism between a front member and a rear member... The spring mechanism exerts a biasing force when compressed that gently propels the user's upper body forward
Implementation Method 2
The spring mechanism includes first and second elongate spring elements, each spring element including front and rear planar surfaces integral with a rounded portion
Data Source
AI summary
A method for generating a rebounding motion between a person and a stationary surface comprising the steps of providing a rebounding device that includes a front member, a rear member, and a spring mechanism positioned between the front member and the rear member for allowing the front member and rear member to move toward and away from one another. The method further includes the steps of positioning the rear member against the stationary surface and the front member adjacent to an upper body of the person and the stationary surface, and applying pressure to the rebounding device through the upper body such that the upper body moves toward from the stationary surface while a lower body of the person remains in place.