Autonomous Storage Unit Docking for Wheelchair Width Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of wheelchairs face limited storage options, with existing solutions like side-mounted bags being prone to dislodgment and luggage carriers being too large and slow for versatile use.
Innovation Solution
An autonomously moveable storage unit integrated with a wheelchair, featuring processors, a storage container, and a moveable base that can automatically dock and undock from the wheelchair, allowing for efficient storage and retrieval of items without hindering the wheelchair's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If side storage units are attached to the wheelchair, then additional storage capacity is provided, but the storage units may be knocked off when traveling through narrow passageways
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is nested within a protective housing structure that integrates with the wheelchair frame. The housing contains the storage container and provides structural support, preventing the storage unit from being dislodged while maintaining accessible storage capacity for the user.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional luggage carriers are used to follow a wheelchair, then additional storage is available, but they are too large and slow for application in multiple environments
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit is designed with a compact form factor that allows it to be integrated into various wheelchair types and navigate different environments. The autonomous mobile platform can operate independently or dock with the wheelchair, providing versatile functionality across multiple usage scenarios including narrow passageways and open spaces.
3Quantity of substance
If storage units are coupled to the side of the wheelchair, then storage is provided, but the width of the wheelchair increases making it difficult to navigate through doorways
Solution Approach 1:
The storage unit utilizes vertical space by positioning the storage container above the wheelchair base, rather than extending horizontally from the side. This dimensional transition allows storage capacity to be increased without increasing the wheelchair's width, enabling navigation through standard doorways while maintaining storage functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomously moveable storage unit includes one or more processors, a storage container configured to contain a stored item, a moveable base coupled to the storage container and communicatively coupled to the one or more processors, and one or more memory modules communicatively coupled to the one or more processors. The one or more memory modules store logic that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the autonomously moveable storage unit to actuate the moveable base to automatically move the autonomously moveable storage unit from a docked position coupled to the wheelchair to an undocked position uncoupled from the wheelchair, and actuate the moveable base to automatically move the autonomously moveable storage unit from the undocked position to the docked position.