Adaptive Mobility Lift With Variable Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient lift devices apply a constant force, making it difficult for patients, especially obese individuals, to regain strength and independence by supporting themselves during transitions from bed to standing and walking, as they do not provide variable force support.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive mobility lift system with a base portion, lift portion, lift arm, and electronic controller that adjusts force levels based on patient input and weight, using a motor and integrated scale to assist patients in standing, sitting, and walking while reducing reliance on assistance over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional patient lifts apply constant force to move patients, then the patient can be moved between positions, but the patient cannot progressively support themselves and remains dependent on assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The lift system transitions from static constant force to dynamic variable force by continuously adjusting the lifting force based on real-time weight sensor feedback. The electronic controller modifies motor output to match the patient's changing weight, enabling progressive support that adapts to the patient's recovery level and facilitates increasing independence.
Solution Approach 2:
Weight sensors detect the patient's weight and provide real-time feedback to the electronic controller, which adjusts the motor's lifting force accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system ensures the lift provides appropriate variable force support, allowing patients to progressively bear more weight and reduce dependence on assistance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional patient lifts use constant force, then the lifting mechanism is simple, but it does not enable patients to regain strength through progressive support
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an electronic control system that uses sensors, processors, and motors to automatically adjust lifting force. This substitution enables precise progressive force adjustment while managing complexity through automation rather than requiring complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of lifting force from constant to variable by dynamically adjusting motor output based on weight sensor readings. The electronic controller modifies force parameters in real-time to match patient needs, enabling progressive support without requiring complex mechanical force adjustment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If conventional patient lifts provide full support without patient bearing weight, then the patient is safely moved, but the patient does not engage in weight-bearing exercise for rehabilitation
Solution Approach 1:
The lift system dynamically adjusts support levels based on real-time weight detection, transitioning between high support for safety during initial phases and reduced support to encourage weight-bearing exercise. This dynamic adaptation simultaneously ensures safety and enhances rehabilitation effectiveness by progressively increasing patient weight-bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
Weight sensors provide continuous feedback on the patient's weight and the lift's support force, enabling the electronic controller to adjust lifting parameters to maintain safety margins while encouraging progressive weight-bearing. The feedback loop ensures safety is maintained as the patient gradually increases their weight-bearing capacity during rehabilitation.
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 patients to progressively support themselves by adjusting force levels, enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and reducing the risk of falls and psychological dependence on others.
Implementation Method 1
a motor configured to transform electrical energy to mechanical energy to raise and lower the lift bar
Implementation Method 2
an integrated scale positioned within the lift bar and configured to detect a weight of the patient
Implementation Method 3
a braking system coupled to the support arm, the braking system including a release handle that selectively repositions the braking system between an engaged position, in which the braking system prevents rotation of the plurality of rollers
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive lift includes a base portion including a plurality of rollers, a lift portion coupled to the base portion, the lift portion including a mast extending upward from the base portion in a vertical direction and a lift arm coupled to the mast, a lift bar coupled to the lift arm, a lift system coupled to the base portion and the lift arm, where the lift system raises and lowers the lift bar with respect to the base portion, a support arm pivotally coupled to the mast and positioned above the base portion in the vertical direction, and a braking system coupled to the support arm, the braking system including a release handle that selectively repositions the braking system between an engaged position, in which the braking system prevents rotation of the plurality of rollers, and a disengaged position, in which the plurality of rollers may rotate.