Wearable Torso Device with Compression-Stabilized Table Surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tables and horizontal support members are not designed to be portable, making it inconvenient for users to access a table surface while moving or in different locations, as they require users to position themselves near a stationary table to perform tasks.
Innovation Solution
A torso device with a central opening that fits around the user's torso, providing a compression force and surface area contact to maintain a horizontal position, allowing the user to utilize a table surface while walking or standing without additional support, featuring a front and rear member configuration with adjustable straps and materials for comfort and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional tables are used, then users can perform tasks on a stable surface, but users must position themselves near a stationary table which reduces mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the table surface function with a wearable torso device, merging two previously separate functions (table and wearable support) into a single integrated device that provides both stability and mobility
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static table to a dynamic wearable system that moves with the user, allowing the table surface to adapt to different user positions and locations while maintaining functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wearable torso device is created, then user mobility is improved, but the device must provide sufficient compression force to maintain position which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses the user's own torso as the anchoring structure, eliminating the need for external support mechanisms. The compression force is generated passively through the interaction between the resilient material and the user's body, rather than requiring active mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses resilient materials that change their physical properties (compression force, surface area contact) based on the degree of torso insertion, allowing the device to automatically adjust to different users and conditions without complex control systems
3Force
If the front member is biased inwardly toward the rear member, then the device maintains compression force, but the opening must be large enough to accommodate torso insertion which reduces structural rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The structural rigidity of the device is dynamic rather than static - the resilient material provides flexibility during insertion but transitions to providing structural support and maintaining compression force once the torso is in place, adapting to the operational phase
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
Enables users to access a table surface while moving or in various positions without needing to reposition themselves, providing a stable and convenient workspace for tasks like working, reading, or eating, with the device maintaining its position through surface area contact and compression force.
Implementation Method 1
The front member includes a closed end that is biased inwardly toward the rear member, touching if not immediately adjacent the rear member
Data Source
AI summary
Torso devices comprise a body having a central opening, interposed between an integral body front member and body rear member, for placement of user's torso therein. The front member has a top or table surface, and the front and rear members comprise surface areas for contacting the user's torso. The front and rear members are configured to impose a compression force against the user's torso. Together the front and rear member surface area and the compression force function to maintain a desired placement position of the front member relative to the user when placed in the central opening, e.g., perpendicular to the user's torso or parallel to the floor on which the user is standing, when the user moves from a sitting to a standing position and/or when the user is walking, to thereby provide a readily available table surface for facilitating certain tasks or activities.