Sensory Toy Device Case with Segmented Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Individuals with sensory processing disorders often face challenges in managing stress due to the lack of easily accessible and discreet outlets for fidgeting and sensory stimulation, especially in a world where handheld devices are ubiquitous.

Innovation Solution

A sensory toy case designed to fit various technological devices, equipped with a shell that securely holds one or more sensory toys via a locking mechanism, allowing users to fidget discreetly and manage stress.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If sensory toys are integrated into device cases, then stress management and accessibility are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of sensory outletVSAvoidcase structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The case is divided into multiple compartments and sections, with dedicated spaces for different types of sensory toys (fidget spinners, stress balls, putty containers). This segmentation allows easy access to specific toys while organizing them systematically within the case structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Smaller sensory toy containers are nested within larger case compartments. For example, multiple small fidget toy holders are nested within the main case body, and detachable sensory packs can be stored within larger storage sections, creating a compact hierarchical structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple sensory toys are included in the case, then sensory stimulation options are improved, but device weight and volume increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensory stimulation varietyVSAvoidcase weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The case contains multiple small, lightweight compartments for different sensory toys rather than one large container. Each compartment holds a specific type of sensory item (spinners, stress balls, putty), allowing users to access only what they need while keeping the overall weight distributed and manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different sections of the case are optimized for specific sensory toy types based on their weight and usage frequency. Frequently used lightweight items like fidget spinners are placed in easily accessible top compartments, while heavier items are stored in lower sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If sensory toys are securely locked in the case, then toy stability is improved, but ease of access and operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetoy retention securityVSAvoidtoy accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The case incorporates detachable and movable components rather than fixed permanent attachments. Sensory toys can be easily removed from magnetic holders or snap-fit compartments without requiring tools or complex mechanisms, allowing dynamic access while maintaining secure storage when closed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Magnetic locking mechanisms use magnetic attraction forces to hold sensory toys securely in place within the case, counteracting gravity and preventing items from falling out during transport, while still allowing easy removal when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Data Source

PatentUS20250049186A1Sensory toy device case
Publication Date: 2025.02.13 SOOTHE WIDGETS LLC
  • US20250049186A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049186A1 patent drawing
  • US20250049186A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A case for day-to-day devices like phones and tablets, among others, with a flexible cover that fits over the device, a rigid shell that fits over the cover, and varying sensory toys that fit snuggly into the shell.