Adjustable Seat Mounting Mechanism for Mobility Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wheelchairs, particularly motorized ones, fail to provide adequate user comfort due to fixed seat positions, which can lead to discomfort and health issues for users of varying heights and anatomical configurations, and lack of adjustable features such as seat angle and assistive handles that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Innovation Solution
The mobility apparatus features adjustable seat height and angle through sets of plates and fasteners, allowing for different mounting positions and angles, and a stowable handle that provides leverage while in use and can be concealed when not needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the seat position is fixed relative to the floor, then the device structure is simple, but user comfort deteriorates for users of varying heights
Solution Approach 1:
The seat mounting structure is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system provides multiple mounting positions that allow the seat to be adjusted to different heights and angles, enabling the structure to adapt to users of varying heights while maintaining reasonable structural simplicity through standardized mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of seat position (height and angle) by providing multiple predetermined mounting locations. This allows the seat to be repositioned to accommodate different user anatomical configurations, transforming a fixed-parameter structure into a multi-parameter adjustable system.
2Ease of manufacture
If the seat position is fixed, then manufacturing is simpler, but user comfort and health deteriorate due to improper weight distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The seat mounting system transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic adjustable configuration. Multiple mounting positions are provided that allow the seat to be positioned according to user needs, ensuring proper weight distribution across the seat and backrest while maintaining straightforward manufacturing processes.
3Ease of operation
If a protruding handle is provided for assistance, then assistive function is improved, but device dimensions and damage risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to nest within or attach to existing device structures when not in use, rather than protruding permanently. This allows the handle to be deployed for assistive operations when needed while minimizing its impact on device dimensions and aesthetics when stowed, reducing both visual complexity and potential damage risk.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of a mobility apparatus configured according to principles of the invention includes a set of plates and fasteners that provide for mounting of a seat at different positions that cause the seat to assume different heights and angles relative to the surface on which the mobility apparatus is. An embodiment of a mobility apparatus configured according to principles of the invention includes a detachable handle that can provide benefits while extended and can be stowed when not in use.