Retractable Spring-Loaded Shield for Water Gun Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water guns lack a convenient and removable shield mechanism that provides user protection from being squirted by others, with existing solutions either not being retractable or not easily detachable.
Innovation Solution
A retractable spring-loaded shield made of PVC material that can pivot between a folded and upright position, attached to the water gun via detachable plastic clips and a spring-loaded mechanism for easy deployment and retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a shield mechanism is added to the water gun, then user protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is divided into multiple ribs that can be independently folded and stored within the water gun body, allowing the shield mechanism to be segmented into compact sections that simplify storage and reduce overall complexity when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The shield transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one that can pivot between an extended protective position and a retracted storage position, allowing it to adapt between providing protection and minimizing device complexity
2Ease of operation
If the shield is made retractable, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded mechanism automatically propels the shield into its extended protective position when activated, eliminating the need for manual extension efforts and ensuring reliable deployment through self-powered action
Solution Approach 2:
The shield ribs are designed with curved geometry that allows them to flex and pivot smoothly during extension and retraction, reducing mechanical stress and improving reliability of the moving joints
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shield can be removed, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into separate detachable clips that connect the shield housing to the water gun body, allowing the shield to be easily removed and reattached without complex fastening systems
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable shield mechanism provides multiple functions: it can be attached for protection, removed for portability, and reattached as needed, making the system versatile for different usage scenarios while maintaining simple attachment geometry
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 solution provides effective user protection by allowing the shield to be easily deployed and retracted, offering a practical defense mechanism that can be removed when not needed.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring engaged with the lever to bias the shield button in the second position and a second spring engaged with the lever to bias the shield in the unfolded position
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable spring loaded pop-up shield for a water gun. The shield can assume one of two positions of either a folded, reclined position or of an unfolded, upright standing position.