Swing Attachment Apparatus for Toy Stability and Secure Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Children's stuffed toys cannot participate in activities on a swing set due to the unsupported weight causing them to flip over, as traditional swing sets lack a secure attachment mechanism for toys.
Innovation Solution
A swing attachment apparatus with a toy seat having a seat base and adjustable seat back, secured by straps, centers the toy's center of gravity over the swing seat, preventing flipping and allowing secure attachment to the swing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple seat base is used to hold the toy, then the device complexity is reduced, but the toy cannot be securely attached and may flip over or become dislodged during swinging
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment apparatus is divided into distinct functional segments: a seat base for supporting the toy, a first strap for attaching to the swing seat, a second strap for securing the toy, and an adjustable seat back for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines multiple securing functions into a single integrated apparatus. The seat base, straps, and seat back work together as a unified system to simultaneously attach the toy to the swing and prevent flipping, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed seat back position is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the apparatus cannot accommodate toys of different sizes and shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The seat back is designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing it to move and be fixed at different positions along the seat base. This dynamic adjustability enables the apparatus to adapt to various toy sizes and shapes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable seat back changes its positional parameter relative to the seat base to accommodate different toy configurations. By modifying this single geometric parameter, the apparatus achieves versatility without requiring complex mechanical systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the seat back is positioned to center the toy's center of gravity, then the toy remains upright and does not flip over, but this requires precise positioning that increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable seat back is pre-configured to position the toy's center of gravity over the swing seat's center. This preliminary positioning action ensures stability from the start, preventing flipping without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms during swinging.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed so that the adjustable seat back automatically positions itself to achieve proper center of gravity alignment. The structure guides the seat back into the correct position, eliminating the need for external intervention or complex control systems.
4Reliability
If multiple straps are used to secure the toy, then the attachment reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases due to more components to attach and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
Both straps are designed with universal attachment points and similar fastening mechanisms. The first strap attaches the seat base to the swing, while the second strap secures the toy, and both use comparable adjustment methods. This multi-functionality with standardized interfaces simplifies the overall operation despite having multiple straps.
Data Source
AI summary
A swing attachment apparatus for holding a child's toy on a swing includes a seat base that has a lower portion configured to rest on a swing seat and an upper portion configured to support a child's toy. A seat back may be provided that adjustably engages with the seat base to support a rear portion of the child's toy. A first strap is attached to the seat base and is configured to wrap around the swing seat to secure the seat base to the swing. A second strap is attached to the seat base and is configured to extend over the child's toy to secure the child's toy between the second strap and the seat base.