Suspended Play Structure with Ring Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current children's play structures are unexciting, typically designed for single users, and lack features like multiple support, removable cushions, built-in doors, windows, and lighting, limiting their versatility and thrill factor both indoors and outdoors.
Innovation Solution
A suspended play structure with top and bottom rings for additional weight support, a removable cushion, built-in door flap, windows, and optional lighting, made from durable materials like metal and nylon, designed to be both thrilling and cost-effective for multiple users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a play structure is designed to be suspended from above rather than supported from the bottom, then the thrill and excitement factor is improved, but the structural complexity and support requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The play structure is divided into multiple segments including a top ring, bottom ring, and suspended body portion. This segmentation allows the structure to be suspended from above while distributing the weight and complexity across separate components, making the suspension system more manageable and less complex overall.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from ground-based support to aerial suspension by introducing vertical hanging elements (straps connecting top and bottom rings). This dimensional change from horizontal ground support to vertical suspension creates the thrilling effect while organizing structural complexity into a different spatial arrangement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the play structure is designed to support multiple children simultaneously, then the usability and fun factor are improved, but the weight bearing requirements and material strength needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into a top ring and bottom ring connected by straps, creating multiple load-bearing pathways. This segmentation distributes the weight of multiple children across different structural elements rather than concentrating it on a single support point.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite construction combining rigid rings (providing structural strength) with flexible straps (providing tension support). This composite approach allows the structure to bear the weight of multiple children while maintaining flexibility and distributing stress across different material properties.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the play structure includes additional features like windows, door flaps, and lighting, then the versatility and play experience are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sidewalls serve multiple functions: they provide structural enclosure, contain window openings for viewing, and can be equipped with door flaps for access. This multi-functionality consolidates several features into single structural elements, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining feature richness.
Solution Approach 2:
Features like windows and door flaps are segmented as separate components that can be integrated into the sidewalls. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual features that can be assembled into the final structure, simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the variety of features.
4Reliability
If the play structure uses durable materials like metal and reinforced nylon, then the reliability and longevity are improved, but the manufacturing cost and material expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure combines metal rings (providing rigid structural support and longevity) with reinforced nylon straps (providing flexible tension support). This composite material approach distributes the durability requirements across different materials, allowing each material to be optimized for its specific function while controlling overall cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Different materials are segmented and assigned to specific structural components based on their optimal performance characteristics. Metal is used for rings requiring rigidity and longevity, while reinforced nylon is used for straps requiring flexibility and tension resistance. This segmentation allows cost-effective material selection for each component's specific functional requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspended play structure includes a floor, a sidewall, and a roof that defines an inner space. The structure includes top and bottom ring structures that provide additional support to the play structure. The play structure can be suspended from a tree, a stand, a ceiling, or similar structure. The structure is collapsible for easy storage and can also include a removable cushion that can fit within an internal pocket. The structure can also include a removable string of LED lights within the inner space.