Articulated Storage Apparatus with Motor-Driven Arms for Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage apparatuses are often inaccessible to individuals of varying heights and abilities, particularly posing challenges for people with disabilities who struggle to reach items on upper shelves or in kitchen cabinets.
Innovation Solution
An articulated storage apparatus with a mounting plate, extendable arms, and a control system driven by electric motors, allowing for independent rotation and positioning via a central processing unit and remote control, enabling the system to adjust to different heights and positions to accommodate users of different stature and abilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If storage apparatus is positioned at fixed height and location, then structural simplicity is maintained, but accessibility for users of different heights and abilities is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the fixed storage apparatus into a movable one with multiple degrees of freedom. The articulated arms with rotation mechanisms allow the storage platform to dynamically adjust its position in space, enabling accessibility for users of different heights and abilities while maintaining structural integrity through controlled mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage apparatus is segmented into multiple independent components: mounting plate, first arm, second arm, third arm, and carrier plate. Each segment can move independently through rotation mechanisms, allowing the system to achieve complex positioning capabilities while keeping individual components relatively simple and manageable.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rotation mechanisms and motors are added to enable positioning adjustments, then accessibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed with universal functionality to manage multiple motors and rotation mechanisms through a unified interface. The CPU and control circuitry can coordinate different motors (first, second, third, fourth, and fifth electric motors) to achieve various positioning configurations, making the system adaptable to different user needs while maintaining manageable control complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-service capabilities through automated control where the CPU can independently coordinate motor movements to achieve desired positioning. The control system can autonomously manage the complexity of multiple rotation mechanisms, reducing the burden on users while providing versatile positioning options.
3Ease of operation
If the storage apparatus is made movable and adjustable, then accessibility for disabled persons is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the stability conflict by implementing controlled dynamics rather than static rigidity. The rotation mechanisms allow smooth, controlled movement while maintaining structural integrity during transitions. The system achieves stability through controlled motion and precise positioning rather than fixed rigid structures, enabling accessibility while preserving structural soundness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates damping and control mechanisms that act as cushioning against abrupt movements or instability. The control circuitry and motor systems are designed to prevent sudden shifts that could compromise stability, providing smooth transitions and maintaining structural integrity while enabling movement for accessibility.
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
The articulated storage apparatus provides a flexible and accessible solution, allowing users to easily reach items by adjusting the storage container's position, enhancing accessibility for individuals of all heights and abilities, including those with disabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first vertically-oriented rotation mechanism driven by a first electric motor, a second vertically-oriented rotation mechanism driven by a second electric motor
Data Source
AI summary
An articulated storage apparatus has a mounting plate having openings for fasteners to mount to a stable stationary surface, a first arm extending from the mounting plate, a second arm coupled at a first end to the first arm at an end away from the carrier plate by a first vertically-oriented rotation mechanism driven by a first electric motor, a carrier plate having openings for fasteners to mount to a storage container, a third arm extending from the carrier plate coupled at an end away from the carrier plate to the second arm at a second end opposite the first end by a second vertically-oriented rotation mechanism driven by a second electric motor, and a control system having independent drivers for the first and the second electric motors, with inputs for independently rotating the electric motors in opposite directions.