Adjustable Height Platform Kinematic Finite State Machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for changing the position or elevation of objects often require specific equipment, precise engineering, and maintenance, and do not utilize a kinematic finite state machine approach to manage these changes efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A kinematic finite state machine comprising two bodies and a switch, where the bodies form a composite coordinate function that interacts with the switch to change states based on movement, allowing for efficient position or elevation changes without requiring extensive external forces or infrastructure, by using a passive kinematic relationship and energy wells to manage the degrees of freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing technologies (wheels, forklifts, cranes, retractable casters) are used to change position or elevation, then the objects can be moved or elevated, but specific equipment and infrastructure are required, and the equipment must be precisely engineered and maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single integrated platform that combines multiple functions (positioning, elevation changing, stabilization) into one device. The adjustable platform can serve multiple purposes without requiring separate equipment for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by incorporating the elevation adjustment mechanism within the platform structure itself. The first and second objects are nested within each other, with the switch mechanism integrated into the platform body, eliminating the need for external infrastructure and reducing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If retractable casters are used, then the object can be moved, but the object must be tilted in specific directions to engage and disengage the caster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex engagement/disengagement procedure from the movement mechanism by using a switch-activated system. Instead of requiring manual tilting operations, the movement function is triggered simply by actuating a switch, thereby simplifying the operation procedure while maintaining movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform employs self-service mechanisms where the switch automatically controls the engagement and disengagement of movement functions. The system serves itself by using the switch state to directly control the mechanical components without requiring external manipulation or complex user procedures.
3Measurement precision
If load-bearing cams or external articulators are used, then the object can be positioned, but additional parts are required that must be precisely engineered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the positioning and elevation functions into a single integrated mechanism controlled by the switch. By combining these functions and using the coordinate functions of the first and second objects to define the composite surface, the system achieves precise positioning without requiring separate cams or articulators, thereby reducing the number of parts while maintaining measurement precision.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing technologies are used, then position or elevation can be changed, but they do not approach the problem from the perspective of a kinematic finite state machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a kinematic finite state machine model where the platform can transition between different states (positions and elevations) based on switch activations. The coordinate functions and composite surface dynamically adjust as the platform moves, allowing versatile position and elevation changes while maintaining a structured control system through the finite state machine framework.
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 efficient and flexible position or elevation changes of objects using a passive kinematic relationship and energy wells, reducing the need for extensive external forces and infrastructure, while allowing for programmability and adaptability in the number of states available.
Implementation Method 1
The switch only moves relative to the first and second objects in response to gravity and acceleration
Implementation Method 2
by using a passive kinematic relationship and energy wells to manage the degrees of freedom
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a cyclic mechanism for engaging or disengaging a switch with the stage of the cycle being determined by a height to which a first object is lifted relative to a second object. The mechanism has few moving parts, is inexpensive to manufacture, is reliable, can be incorporated into a wide range of devices or structures, and operates as an incident to raising or lowering a first object relative to a second.