Adaptive Mobility Device with Forearm Steering and Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility devices, such as bicycles, tricycles, walkers, and rollators, fail to provide adequate stability and load transfer capabilities, especially on uneven terrain, limiting their effectiveness for ambulatory persons who need or want to walk or jog while maintaining stability.
Innovation Solution
A three-wheeled adaptive mobility device with a unique frame design, adjustable steering mechanism, and a user weight support system that includes a forearm support bar and hand grips, allowing for stable walking or jogging on uneven terrain, with the option to transfer user weight to the device and featuring large diameter wheels and a suspension system for added stability and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a walker or rollator is used to provide stability, then stability is improved, but distance mobility and fitness training capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mobility device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can provide stable support for users who need assistance, enable distance mobility for those with greater capability, and serve as a fitness training tool through adjustable resistance mechanisms. The device accommodates various user needs within a single system, transforming it from a single-function walker into a multi-functional mobility solution.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable features including variable resistance mechanisms, adjustable handle heights, and configurable wheel configurations. These dynamic elements allow the device to adapt to different user capabilities and training goals, enabling the same device to provide both stability support and fitness resistance training.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a tricycle is used to provide stability, then stability is improved, but cycling motion capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the stability function (provided by the three-wheeled base and frame structure) from the propulsion function (provided by the user's leg drive mechanism). This segmentation allows the stable three-wheeled configuration to coexist with a pedaling motion system, enabling users to experience both stability and cycling-like exercise benefits simultaneously.
3Stability of the object's composition
If large diameter wheels are used to improve terrain capability, then stability and comfort are improved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes composite material construction, combining lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber in the frame structure with larger diameter wheels. This composite approach allows the device to achieve the necessary strength and stability for supporting user weight while minimizing overall device weight, reconciling the conflict between large wheel benefits and weight penalties.
4Ease of operation
If an adjustable steering mechanism is used to improve steering sensitivity, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steering mechanism allows adjustment of steering sensitivity through parameter changes, such as modifying the ratio between handlebar rotation and front wheel rotation. This enables the device to be tuned for different user preferences and capabilities, improving ease of operation while maintaining a relatively simple overall mechanism that does not excessively increase device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive mobility device enables disabled users to ambulate with more security. The device includes a frame including two rear forks for a pair of rear wheels, and a pivotable front fork and wheel, steerable with a steering mechanism that alters the front wheel angle in response to pivoting of the forearms support bar. The support bar may optionally contain forearm rests on which the user may support his or her weight while reaching the handgrips for steering the device. The steering mechanism may provide for adjustment of the steering ratio.