Stretch Manikin Joint for Wide-Opening Leg Dressing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manikin joints are inadequate for easy dressing in trousers without detaching the leg from the body, as they do not allow sufficient angle opening to facilitate this process, and there is a need for joints that prevent small manikin parts from being knocked off and lost during use.
Innovation Solution
A manikin joint design that allows for automatic closure and repositioning, featuring a stretch element and pivot point enabling the joint to open to angles greater than 15°, preventing sliding and accidental disengagement, and a locking mechanism to secure the joint in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the joint opening angle is limited to about 15° as in prior art, then the joint structure remains simple and stable, but the legs cannot be moved close enough together to be inserted into trousers
Solution Approach 1:
The joint transitions from a static limited-angle connection to a dynamic multi-position joint that can open to greater angles (greater than 15°, up to about 60° or more) while maintaining stability through controlled movement phases: closed position, partially open position, and fully open position for dressing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The joint is divided into separate functional components including a first joint assembly, a second joint assembly with a stretch element, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling the overall joint to achieve both wide opening capability and stable positioning
2Productivity
If the joint allows frequent partial opening and closing operations, then dressing efficiency improves, but the risk of accidental disengagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically engages when the joint is in the closed or partially open position. The locking key and keyway arrangement ensures that the joint securely locks itself without requiring additional operations, preventing accidental disengagement during repeated opening and closing cycles
Solution Approach 2:
A locking key acts as an intermediary element between the two joint assemblies, providing a positive mechanical lock that prevents separation. The locking key fits into a keyway and can be rotated to engage or disengage the lock, serving as a mediator that maintains connection reliability while allowing controlled operation
3Ease of manufacture
If small manikin parts are used to reduce material usage and cost, then manufacturing efficiency improves, but the parts become prone to being knocked off and lost
Solution Approach 1:
The stretch element functions as a counteracting force mechanism that actively holds small manikin parts in place. The elastic or spring-based stretch element provides continuous retaining force that counteracts external forces attempting to knock the parts off, enabling small parts to be used safely without increasing their size or weight
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 faster and easier dressing of manikins by allowing the legs to be brought closer together, preventing the loss of small manikin parts, and ensuring consistent reattachment without accidental disengagement, thus improving manufacturing efficiency and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a stretch element, which in use is attached to the first manikin part at a first attachment point on the stretch element and to the second manikin part at a second attachment point on the stretch element. In use the stretch element in use is capable of: being elongated in by applying a first stretching force to it at the second attachment point or at a point on the stretch element other than the first attachment point. The stretch element is also capable of automatically returning to a less elongated position in the absence of the stretching force being applied.
Data Source
AI summary
Joints are provided for connecting first and second manikin parts. The joints can be partially opened like a clamshell by pivoting the parts on a point on the joint interface. They include first and second joint assemblies attached to the first and second manikin parts respectively. The joint assemblies comprise a stretch element such as a spring or an elastomeric cord, and are capable of detachably engaging with each other. The joints can rotate in a primary rotational direction, for example to move a detachable manikin leg close to the other manikin leg so that the manikin can quickly and easily be dressed in a pair of slacks. Rotation in a secondary direction is also provided to enable the manikins to be easily assembled by customers so that the manikin parts can be shipped separately. Components and methods of making and using the joints are also provided.