Telescoping Bathroom Platform to Reduce Storage Volume and Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional platforms with multiple segments are bulky, difficult to store in small spaces, and pose a risk to children due to balance issues, while single segment platforms are too narrow and unstable, hindering effective use by both children and adults.
Innovation Solution
A retractable platform with telescoping segments that can extend to a leveled position for use and retract to a compact form, featuring a high-strength plastic construction with a slip-resistant surface, allowing safe and stable standing, and accommodating both children and adults without obstructing adult use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If multiple segments are used to create a larger platform, then the platform provides more space and stability, but the platform becomes bulky and difficult to store in small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping segments are nested within each other when retracted, with each segment containing the next smaller segment inside it. This allows the multi-segment platform to collapse into a compact form that occupies minimal storage space while still providing a large platform surface area when extended and locked into position.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform transitions from a static multi-segment structure to a dynamic telescoping structure that can change its configuration. The segments can extend outward and lock into place to provide a stable large platform, or retract inward to provide a compact storage form, adapting to different spatial requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple segments are used to create a larger platform, then the platform provides more stability, but adults have difficulty using the toilet without moving the platform
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is designed to be dynamically adjustable in size. When an adult needs to use the toilet, the telescoping segments can be easily retracted inward, allowing the platform to collapse into a compact form that does not obstruct adult access. After adult use, the segments can be extended again to restore the stable large platform for child use.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is divided into multiple telescoping segments that can independently extend and retract. This segmentation allows the platform to be quickly transformed from a large stable structure to a compact non-obstructive form, accommodating different user needs without requiring the entire platform to be moved.
3Volume of moving object
If a single segment is used to create a compact platform, then the platform is easy to store, but the platform is too narrow and unstable for children to use safely
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping segments are nested within each other in a compact configuration for storage, with each segment containing the next smaller segment. This nesting arrangement minimizes storage volume while preserving the capability to extend into a large stable platform when needed, solving both the compactness and stability requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform transitions from a compact single-segment-like storage form to an extended multi-segment stable platform. The dynamic telescoping mechanism allows the platform to achieve both compact storage volume and large stable surface area at different times, adapting to different functional requirements.
4Volume of moving object
If a single segment is used to create a compact platform, then the platform is easy to store, but the platform is too narrow for children to turn around and position themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping segments are nested within each other to achieve compact storage volume. When extended, the segments unfold to provide a large platform surface area that allows children to comfortably turn around and position themselves, while maintaining compact dimensions when retracted for storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform dynamically changes its surface area by extending or retracting the telescoping segments. In storage mode, it occupies minimal space with a compact form factor. In use mode, it expands to provide a large stable surface area that accommodates child movement and positioning requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable platform for use in conjunction with a toilet seat configured to be compact when in the retracted position. The retracted platform becomes a generally leveled standing platform when engaged in the opened position providing a stable platform for a child to stand on and turn around to position oneself to sit on a toilet seat. When the platform is in the retracted position, it allows an adult to sit on a toilet seat without any obstruction from the stool to their legs or feet. A cut out on its front panel receive adult-sized feet so the platform in the retracted position does not have to be physically moved when an adult needs to use the toilet. The retracted platform can be easily moved to assist a child needing a vertical advantage in a different location.