Foldable Tree Platform With In-Plane Standoff Stowage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tree platforms for hunters are bulky when folded due to projecting standoff jaws, which can snag and cause discomfort or injury during transport, and lack a secure, compact stowage solution.
Innovation Solution
A foldable tree platform assembly with a standoff that moves into the plane of the post when stowed, using a spring latch for retention, allowing for a compact, snag-free transport and easy deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the standoff is fixed in position to ensure stability during use, then the structural stability is improved, but the package size and transportability deteriorate due to projecting jaws
Solution Approach 1:
The standoff is designed with a hinge joint allowing it to rotate between a use position (projecting transversely for tree engagement) and a stowed position (aligned with the post for compact storage). This dynamic configuration enables the same structure to provide stability during use while minimizing package size during transport.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the standoff projects outwardly with exposed jaws to engage the tree trunk, then the tree engagement capability is improved, but the ease of transport and storage deteriorates due to snag points
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge-connected standoff can be positioned dynamically: projecting outward to engage the tree trunk during use, and folded inward against the post for smooth, snag-free storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The disturbing feature (projecting jaws) is extracted from the storage configuration by folding the standoff inward, separating the tree engagement function from the storage configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the standoff projects outwardly with textured jaws for gripping, then the tree gripping capability is improved, but the user safety deteriorates due to potential contact with jagged edges
Solution Approach 1:
The standoff is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned away from the user during use and folded inward during storage, eliminating the hazard of contact with textured surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The potentially harmful textured jaws are extracted from the user's vicinity by folding the standoff inward during storage and transport, separating the gripping function from positions where user contact might occur.
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 assembly provides a compact, snag-free storage solution with enhanced user safety by minimizing protruding edges, facilitating easy transport and secure mounting to trees.
Implementation Method 1
The spring latch which provides a simple and effective way to releasably hold the standoff in the use and stowed conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable tree platform assembly includes a longitudinal post for placement along the trunk of the tree. A foot-engaging platform is supported by the post and moveable between a forwardly projecting use position in which the platform extends transversely of the post and defines an upper surface of the platform for supporting the foot or feet of a user and a stowed position in which the platform extends along the post. A standoff is supported by the post and is moveable relative to the post between a rearwardly projecting use position for engaging the trunk of the tree to support the post offset from the tree and a stowed position in which the standoff is folded at least partly into the plane of the post.