Three-Pivot Foldable Frame for Compact Infant Lounger Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing a folding frame for an infant recliner or lounger with three pivot points is challenging, as it requires a balance between functionality and aesthetics, and existing solutions often result in complex structures.
Innovation Solution
A three pivot point foldable frame is designed with specific hub configurations and support members that pivotally engage each other, forming distinct shapes in both operating and compact positions, utilizing a minimal number of pivot points to achieve ease of folding and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a folding frame with three pivot points is designed, then the aesthetic appeal and simplicity are improved, but the design difficulty and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple support members (first support member, second support member, third support member, fourth support member) that can pivot independently at three specific pivot points. This segmentation allows each member to move independently, enabling the frame to transition between folded and unfolded states while maintaining aesthetic simplicity in the final configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates three pivot points that enable dynamic movement between folded and unfolded configurations. The first pivot point allows movement between first and second support members, the second pivot point allows movement between third and fourth support members, and the third pivot point connects these pairs. This dynamic design achieves aesthetic appeal in the unfolded state while managing the complexity of the folding mechanism through controlled articulation points.
2Ease of operation
If a minimal number of pivot points (three) is used, then the ease of folding is improved, but the stability of the frame structure may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frame employs an asymmetric arrangement of the three pivot points, with the first pivot point positioned between specific support members and the second and third pivot points positioned differently. This asymmetric configuration allows easy folding while maintaining stability, as each pivot point is strategically located to provide necessary support during transitions and in the final configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure utilizes spatial arrangement in three-dimensional space to achieve stability with minimal pivot points. The support members are arranged to form a stable geometric configuration when unfolded, leveraging spatial relationships rather than relying on multiple pivot points. The first and second support members extend in one direction while the third and fourth support members extend in another direction, creating dimensional stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A three pivot point foldable frame has first and second lower front hubs, first and second upper front hubs, a lower rear hub, and an upper rear hub. Six support members interconnect the hubs. First and second support members pivotally engage each other at a first pivot. Third and fifth support members pivotally engage each other at a second pivot. Fourth and sixth support members pivotally engage each other at a third pivot. A child seat or lounger is engaged to the upper hubs. The frame folds out to an operating position and in to a compact position.