Stretch Manikin Joint for Wide Opening Without Leg Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manikin joints are inadequate for easy dressing of manikins in trousers without detaching the leg from the body, as they do not allow sufficient angle opening to insert both legs into pants simultaneously, and are prone to accidental disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A manikin joint design featuring a stretch element that automatically closes and repositions itself, allowing a pivot angle greater than 15°, preventing sliding and accidental disengagement, and enabling easy dressing by elongating to bring the legs closer together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the joint opening angle is increased to allow easy dressing of manikins in trousers, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability of the joint connection deteriorates due to risk of accidental disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The stretch element automatically returns the joint to its closed position after being opened for dressing, eliminating the need for manual repositioning and reducing the risk of accidental disengagement. The joint self-closes by utilizing the elastic recovery force of the stretch element.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretch element pre-applies a closing force to counteract any opening forces before disengagement can occur. This preliminary anti-action ensures the joint remains securely closed during normal use while still allowing controlled opening for dressing.
2Ease of operation
If the joint allows partial opening for dressing, then the ease of operation is improved, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to difficulty in achieving consistent closed position
Solution Approach 1:
The stretch element automatically positions the joint in its closed state by exerting a restoring force that guides the joint surfaces into proper alignment. This self-positioning mechanism ensures consistent closed position without requiring high manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The stretch element changes the force parameters dynamically - applying closing force when the joint is opened and maintaining optimal contact pressure when closed. This dynamic parameter adjustment compensates for manufacturing tolerances and ensures consistent joint seating.
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 joint allows for efficient dressing of manikins in pants by automatically repositioning and securely attaching the legs, reducing dressing time and preventing accidental disengagement, while maintaining stability and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
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 closer 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.