Adjustable Wheelchair Frame with Pivot and Screw Jack Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheelchairs face challenges in accommodating changing user needs due to either rigid frames that lack adjustability or adjustable frames that increase size and weight by requiring additional framework structure.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight and compact frame system with a central support and angle- and length-adjustable mounting components for the rear wheel axle and front frame caster wheels, allowing for extensive adjustments in seat height and wheelbase without adding extra framework, utilizing features like pivot points, adjustable holes, screw jacks, and cam-follower mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If rigid frame wheelchairs are used, then weight and size are reduced, but adjustability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the frame components adjustable rather than fixed. The mounting brackets can be repositioned along the frame tubes at multiple predetermined locations, allowing the wheelchair to adapt to different user sizes and requirements. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by providing customization capability without requiring a completely different frame for each user.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is segmented into multiple adjustable components including mounting brackets, frame tubes with predetermined locations, and interchangeable parts. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of different frame sections to optimize for both weight reduction and adaptability, as each segment can be configured separately rather than requiring a heavy universal frame.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable components are added to the frame, then adaptability is improved, but size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame components are designed with multi-functionality where the same frame structure serves both as the primary support and as an adjustment mechanism. The mounting brackets can be positioned at multiple locations along the frame tubes, allowing one frame to serve multiple users and purposes without requiring additional separate frameworks, thus avoiding weight increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters by providing multiple predetermined locations along the frame tubes where mounting brackets can be attached. By varying the position parameter of the brackets at different locations, the frame adapts to different user requirements without changing the fundamental frame structure or adding significant weight. The adjustment is achieved through parameter variation rather than structural addition.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mounting brackets are moved vertically and horizontally, then wheelbase and seat height are adjustable, but additional frame geometry is required
Solution Approach 1:
The frame tubes are designed with predetermined locations marked or prepared in advance for mounting bracket attachment. These preliminary prepared positions allow users to quickly adjust the brackets to the desired height and horizontal position without requiring complex real-time calculations or additional structural elements. The preliminary action of pre-positioning the attachment points simplifies the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame exhibits local quality by having specific zones or locations along the frame tubes that are designed for mounting bracket attachment. Rather than requiring the entire frame to have complex adjustable geometry, only specific local areas are equipped with predetermined locations and mounting features, simplifying the overall frame design while providing necessary adjustability.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheelchair frame comprises a base frame having a geometry that is structured and configured to be adjustable about a fixed pivot, wherein the base frame comprises a central frame and frame component that are adjustable via an angular adjustment.