Stool with handle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stools require users to bend over to move them, placing strain on the back and requiring hands to hold items, making them uncomfortable and inconvenient, especially when used in settings like toilets.

Innovation Solution

A foldable or collapsible stool with a long handle that pivots and includes a lever mechanism to fold the supporting members, allowing for easy storage and transportation, and features like a storage shelf for items.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the stool is made foldable and portable, then storage and transportation convenience is improved, but the ease of moving the stool is worsened because users must still bend over to pick it up

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidease of moving
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the stool with a long handle to form an integrated unit. The handle is permanently attached to the stool frame, merging two separate functions (sitting and carrying) into one unified object. This allows users to easily transport the stool by simply holding the handle without bending over, while maintaining the stool's foldable portability for storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The long handle serves as an intermediary between the user and the stool. Instead of directly picking up the stool body (which requires bending), the user interacts with the handle as a mediator that extends the reach and reduces the physical strain of moving the stool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the stool is made foldable, then storage space is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened because users must use their hands to hold items while using the stool

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidcomfort during use
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The long handle is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a carrying handle for transportation, and simultaneously functions as a support surface for holding items (such as toilet paper) during stool usage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for users to use their hands for holding items, while maintaining the stool's foldable storage capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If a long handle is added to the stool, then ease of moving and item holding is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of movingVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The stool is designed with a segmented modular structure where the long handle is a separate component that can be attached to or removed from the stool frame. This segmentation allows the handle to be added as a distinct element, making the overall assembly and disassembly process simpler and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining the operational benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 design enables users to move and store the stool comfortably without straining their backs, providing a portable and user-friendly solution for various settings.

Implementation Method 1

The stool includes a plurality of hinges. The stool also includes a plurality of supporting members connected via the plurality of hinges.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge mechanism: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

the handle comprises a lever mechanism to fold the plurality of supporting members when the long handle is lifted

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever mechanism: Lever

Data Source

PatentUS20230320490A1Stool with handle
Publication Date: 2023.10.12 ITO YUZURU
  • US20230320490A1 patent drawing
  • US20230320490A1 patent drawing
  • US20230320490A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A stool comprising a plurality of hinges and a plurality of supporting members connected via the plurality of hinges. The stool further comprises a handle connected to one of the plurality of supporting members with a connecting member. The plurality of supporting members including at least two top members, a front member, a back member, a pair of right-side members and a pair of left side members. The handle includes a top part, a middle part and a bottom part. The bottom part of the handle is connected to one of the plurality of supporting members with a joining component. The plurality of supporting members are in open position when pushed down against the floor by applying the downward force through the handle. The handle further comprises a lever mechanism to fold the plurality of supporting members when the long handle is lifted.