Children's Swing Oscillation Assembly With Friction Overload Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional swing apparatuses for children are prone to motor damage from overloaded current, sudden stops due to power loss, and are not suitable for use under the sun, as they lack a shielding device.
Innovation Solution
The swing apparatus incorporates an oscillating device with a transmitting assembly featuring friction pieces that manage load and power loss scenarios, ensuring the motor operates safely and the swing frame can descend to a lower position when power is cut off, while also including a shielding device for outdoor use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motor-driven swing apparatus is used to provide automated oscillation, then the swing can operate automatically and consistently, but the motor may be damaged due to overloaded current when the load exceeds rated capacity
Solution Approach 1:
A friction piece is introduced as an intermediary between the motor and the swing frame. This friction piece can slip relative to the swing frame when overload occurs, allowing the motor to continue operating within its rated capacity while the swing frame remains stationary or moves minimally, thus protecting the motor from damage due to overloaded current
2Use of energy by moving object
If the motor continues to operate when power is suddenly cut off or outage happens, then the motor remains electrically active, but the swing frame stops abruptly at a relatively higher position causing discomfort and potential injury to the child
Solution Approach 1:
A damping assembly is pre-installed in the swing apparatus to cushion the stopping motion. When power is suddenly cut off, the damping assembly activates to gradually reduce the swing frame's motion, preventing abrupt stops and ensuring the swing frame comes to rest smoothly at a lower position, thereby protecting the child from discomfort and potential injury
3Adaptability or versatility
If the swing apparatus is used under the sun without shielding, then it can be used outdoors, but the child and equipment are exposed to direct sunlight and heat
Solution Approach 1:
A canopy or shielding structure is added to the swing apparatus to provide shade and protection from direct sunlight and heat. This shielding component is relatively simple in structure and can be easily installed and removed, allowing the swing to be used comfortably outdoors while protecting the child from harmful sun exposure
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 solution prevents motor damage from overloaded current, allows gradual stopping and descent to a lower position during power loss, and enables safe outdoor use under the sun.
Implementation Method 1
a first friction piece which is driven to oscillate back and forth by the driving assembly and moves relative to or together with the output piece depending on a friction force therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
An oscillating device for a children's swing apparatus includes a base, a driving assembly mounted to the base, a first friction piece connected to the driving assembly, and a second friction piece operably driven by the first friction piece depending on a friction force therebetween. An elastic piece urges against one of the first friction piece and the second friction piece, a first shaft passes through a transmitting assembly, and an output member is operated by one of the first shaft and the second friction piece. The swing apparatus further includes a first frame supported on the ground, a second frame in which the sitting device is mounted such that the oscillating device connects the first frame to the second frame.