Stowable Handle Mechanism for Child Riding Vehicle
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing child's riding vehicles lack a versatile and adjustable handle mechanism that allows for easy stowage and deployment for both child propulsion and parent pushing, accommodating different user heights and requiring manual locking/unlocking, which can be inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A stowable handle that can be folded into multiple positions, automatically locking into place for parent pushing, with a mechanism providing weak resistance for easy deployment without manual locking, and side handholds for additional user convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the handle is made stowable and foldable into multiple positions, then the adaptability for different user heights is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The handle mechanism automatically locks into position when folded to the deployed height, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The spring-loaded biased member engages with the ramp automatically, providing self-servicing functionality that reduces operational complexity while maintaining adaptability across multiple positions
Solution Approach 2:
The handle transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic multi-position system that can adapt to different user heights. The mechanism allows smooth transitions between stowed and deployed positions while maintaining stability when locked, embodying the dynamic principle of making objects movable or adjustable
2Ease of operation
If the handle automatically locks into deployed position, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may worsen if the locking mechanism fails
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded biased member is pre-loaded to provide gradual compression as the handle is folded into position, cushioning the locking action and ensuring smooth engagement. This beforehand cushioning prevents sudden jerky movements and ensures reliable locking while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The ramp structure serves as an intermediary element between the biased member and the handle, mediating the locking action. The ramp provides a controlled engagement surface that ensures reliable locking while requiring minimal force from the user, thus maintaining both reliability and ease of operation
3Ease of operation
If the biased member provides weak resistance during deployment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength of the locking mechanism may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The spring constant and pre-load of the biased member are carefully selected to provide weak resistance during the deployment phase, making it easy for users to fold the handle into position. Once locked, the geometric configuration of the ramp and biased member creates a mechanical advantage that provides strong locking force, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and locking strength through parameter optimization
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
Enables convenient and adaptable handling by parents of varying heights, allowing easy transition between stowed and deployed positions without manual locking, enhancing usability and comfort during use.
Implementation Method 1
a biased member rides up a ramp thus gradually compressing a spring, thus providing relatively weak resistance against such rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A child's riding vehicle has a handle by which a parent can push and steer the vehicle, as well as a cutout in the roof which defines a handhold by which the parent can walk alongside the vehicle while holding it. The vehicle can be propelled either by the parent pushing via the parent handle or via the parent handhold, or the child can propel the vehicle as a foot-to-floor vehicle. When the handle is not being used, it can be rotated so that it is stowed at least partially within the body and roof support pillars of the vehicle for a clean appearance. A biasing and locking mechanism loosely biases and retains the handle in the stowed position, and automatically locks it into a deployed position.