Tabletop Yarn Swift with Integrated Storage and Smooth Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing yarn swift designs face limitations such as separate storage of pegs, wobbling rotation, non-folding arms requiring complex storage, clamping to specific work surfaces, and screw-based adjustments difficult for people with impairments.
Innovation Solution
A tabletop yarn swift with integrated storage, smooth non-tipping rotation, foldable and secured arms for compact storage, adaptable to any flat surface, and screw-free operation using a spinning connection with internal bearings and locking hinges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Amish swift design is used, then yarn winding function is provided, but rotation stability deteriorates due to wobbling and tipping
Solution Approach 1:
The swift is divided into multiple arms that can be independently positioned and locked, with each arm contributing to overall stability. The base is segmented into a stationary support structure with a bearing that separates the rotation function from the support function, eliminating the tipping issue inherent in single-post designs.
Solution Approach 2:
A bearing is introduced as an intermediary component between the rotating arms and the stationary base. This bearing mediates the rotation, providing smooth movement while maintaining stability, and eliminates the direct contact and friction problems of screw-based systems.
2Quantity of substance
If separate peg storage is used, then component storage is provided, but risk of losing pegs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The peg storage function is merged with the arm structure itself. Pegs are stored in designated slots or compartments integrated into the arms, eliminating separate storage containers and reducing the risk of losing pegs. The arms and storage system form a unified structure where all components remain together.
3Device complexity
If non-folding arms are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but storage space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arms are designed to be dynamically configurable - they can be positioned in a working configuration during use and folded into a compact configuration for storage. Hinges or pivot points enable the arms to change their spatial arrangement, transforming the device from a large operational footprint to a compact storage footprint.
4Reliability
If screw-based clamps are used, then secure mounting is provided, but adjustment difficulty increases for people with impairments
Solution Approach 1:
The screw-based mechanical adjustment system is replaced with a friction-based or cam-based mechanism that allows adjustment through simple pressure or lever action. This substitution eliminates the need for threading and tightening screws, making the device accessible to people with arthritis or other impairments while maintaining secure mounting through friction or geometric locking.
5Reliability
If work-bench clamping is used, then swift stability is provided, but work surface compatibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed with a universal flat surface mounting capability that works on any horizontal surface rather than requiring specific work-bench features. The bearing and arm structure provide inherent stability, eliminating the need for clamps that attach to edge features, thereby making the device compatible with tables, desks, and other flat surfaces of various dimensions and materials.
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 improved design provides a compact, versatile, and user-friendly yarn swift that ensures smooth operation, secure storage, and accessibility on any surface without the need for screw tightening, addressing the limitations of prior designs.
Implementation Method 1
The interior frame 12 is rotatably connected to a base 18. It is preferred to use a spinning connection with internal bearings, sometimes referred to in the art as a 'Lazy Susan'
Implementation Method 2
Folding arms 14 are rotatably attached to the interior frame 12 by hinges 16
Data Source
AI summary
This invention is embodied in an improved yarn swift that provides integrated storage of all components; smooth and non-tipping rotation when in use; foldable appendages that are secured in their folded position for compact storage; minimized assembly and adjustments needed for use; ability to use on any flat surface as opposed to being clamped to a work-bench edge; and no screw-tightening needed to operate. In this way, the improved yarn swift enables its user to quickly and easily wind a hank of yarn.