Adjustable Collapsible Walker Frames for Narrow Passageways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional walkers are rigid in width, making them one-size-fits-all and difficult to navigate in spaces of varying dimensions, and are cumbersome to store, especially in limited environments like airplane aisles or trains.
Innovation Solution
A walker design with collapsible and adjustable side support members, wheels, and a lateral member that allows for adjustable width and height, enabling compact storage and navigation in narrow spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional walkers use fixed rigid frames, then structural stability is maintained, but adaptability to different spaces and user sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the lateral member adjustable between multiple positions, allowing the width of the walker to be dynamically changed. The lateral member can be repositioned along the side support members to accommodate different space widths and user preferences, transforming a static structure into an adaptable one.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the frame structure into collapsible components. The side support members are divided into multiple sections that can be collapsed together, allowing the walker to be compacted for storage or transport while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
2Ease of operation
If traditional walkers have fixed dimensions, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of storage in limited spaces is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible side support members enable the walker to transition from a fixed-dimensional structure to a dynamically adjustable one. When collapsed, the members reduce the overall dimensions of the walker, making it easier to store in limited spaces such as airplane overhead compartments or small living areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible design allows the side support members to nest within each other when collapsed, similar to nested dolls. This nesting mechanism significantly reduces the storage volume of the walker while maintaining the structural framework when deployed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If walkers are designed with adjustable width, then adaptability to narrow spaces improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral member is designed to be adjustable along the side support members, allowing dynamic modification of the walker's width. This enables users to narrow the walker for tight spaces or widen it for stability in open areas, providing adaptability without requiring multiple different walker models.
Data Source
AI summary
Walkers to assist movement of a person through spaces of varying dimensions are provided. Users may easily adjust the width of the devices to enable them to travel through narrow passageways such as aisles in airplanes. Users may also easily store these devices in small spaces through mechanisms that allow for collapsing of the walkers.