As many great inventions do, the "Chaircase" started as a mistake. When sixth-graders Augie Rosace and…
Inventors Head to Washington, D.C.
As many great inventions do, the “Chaircase” started as a mistake. When sixth-graders Augie Rosace and Quentin Fedak began brainstorming ideas for this year’s Invention Convention, they had different ideas of what the other had in mind. They thought they were on the same page with their ideas until drawing a picture and acting out their thoughts. It turns out that when they put their ideas together, a new idea was formed and they simultaneously blurted out “Suitcase Chair.” A new invention was born.
Their idea stemmed from the problem many travelers face when waiting in long airport or travel lines. Based on recent reports, it seems as if the TSA would create a high demand for such an invention. The Chaircase as it became known, helps weary travelers transform their luggage into a seat with wheels that can be used while in line. The user can even remain seated while wheeling comfortably through the line.
The inventors worked through three phases of prototypes as they solved problems that came up with their invention along the way.
Augie said, “We started with paper, then went to cardboard and finally wood. We realized there was a problem with one of the legs folding down, so we had to rework the hinges.”
Augie built the original wood prototype and Quentin then made the adjustments needed and also added a coat of paint, fabric lining and decorative tacks for the regional competition.
Quentin said, “We measured the average height of a standard chair and then used that to determine the height our seat would be.”
Of course, the pair hopes to make a final product out of plastic down the road, which would help decrease the weight of their design, making it easier to carry.
The initial design was evaluated at St. Mary School by teachers and fellow students who then nominated three groups to move on to the regional competition. At the regionals, students presented their designs, explained the problem they would solve and discussed the overall process with judges. It turned out that Invention 213 – the Chaircase – had a favorable view with the judges and was rated as one of 10 superior award recipients from the Northeast Region, qualifying the invention to advance on to the National Invention Convention and Entrepreneurship Expo (NICEE) in Washington, D.C. on May 20t and 21. They will compete there for the opportunity to earn additional continuing education scholarships. It is the first ever national convention of its kind and the kids are overjoyed to participate.
The Invention Convention started as a small science fair of sorts in Sandusky in 1993 with one school district participating. Today it has grown into a yearlong program offered to all school districts in the state of Ohio. The mission of Invention Convention is to inspire curiosity, confidence, invention and creative problem solving in our youth. It is a program that is a part of the Ohio Academy of Science.
Surly seeing the success of this year’s participants from St. Mary School will inspire the next round of inventors to invest the time and work into attempting to repeat a trip to the National Convention.
