Retractable Telescoping Platform for Compact Toilet Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional platforms with multiple segments are bulky, difficult to store in small spaces, and pose a risk to children due to balance issues, while single segment platforms are too narrow and unstable, hindering effective use by both children and adults.
Innovation Solution
A retractable platform with telescoping segments that combine to form a single, leveled surface, allowing for compact storage and enhanced stability, featuring a high-strength plastic construction with a slip-resistant surface and optional features like anchoring, sensors, and handles for improved safety and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If multiple segments are used to create a larger platform surface, then the platform provides more space for children to stand and turn around, but the platform becomes bulky and difficult to store in small bathrooms
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable platform uses nesting where one platform segment is inserted inside another segment. When retracted, the smaller segment fits within the larger segment, creating a compact storage configuration that minimizes bathroom space usage while maintaining the capability to extend to a larger surface area when needed for child use.
2Area of moving object
If multiple segments are used to provide a larger platform, then children have more space to move, but adults must move the platform to use the toilet and cannot return it to its original place
Solution Approach 1:
The platform employs dynamic design with telescoping segments that can be easily extended and retracted. This dynamic structure allows adults to quickly adjust the platform size or retract it completely after use, enabling easy return to the original compact position without requiring complex assembly or disassembly operations.
3Ease of operation
If ascending segments are used to help children reach the toilet, then children can access the toilet, but children lose their balance when maneuvering from lower to upper segments
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable platform maintains a substantially level surface across all segments when extended, eliminating height differences between adjacent standing areas. This equipotential design prevents balance disruption that would occur when children step between segments at different heights, while still providing the necessary elevation to reach the toilet seat.
4Volume of moving object
If a single segment platform is used for compact storage, then the platform stores easily in small spaces, but the platform is too narrow for children to turn around or maintain balance
Solution Approach 1:
The platform transitions from a compact single-segment configuration for storage to an extended multi-segment configuration for use. When extended, additional segments protrude to create a larger surface area that accommodates child movement and maintains balance, while retracting to the single-segment form minimizes storage space requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable platform for use in conjunction with a toilet seat configured to be compact when in the retracted position. The retracted platform becomes a generally leveled standing platform when engaged in the opened position providing a stable platform for a child to stand on and turn around to position oneself to sit on a toilet seat. When the platform is in the retracted position, it allows an adult to sit on a toilet seat without any obstruction from the stool to their legs or feet. A cut out on its front panel receive adult-sized feet so the platform in the retracted position does not have to be physically moved when an adult needs to use the toilet. The retracted platform can be easily moved to assist a child needing a vertical advantage in a different location.