Bath transfer chair
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheelchair systems lack efficient mechanisms for transferring users between a wheelchair and a bathtub or shower, particularly for individuals with limited mobility, and often require complex assembly and lack adjustable seating positions.
Innovation Solution
A tilting mechanism for the chair that allows concurrent adjustment of the seat and backrest, along with a deployable bridge section for transferring the chair between the wheelchair and a shower or bathtub, featuring a locking system to secure the bridge in place and a position control mechanism for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a deployable bridge section is added to enable transfer between wheelchair and bathtub, then transfer capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer chair is divided into distinct functional modules: a wheelchair base, a deployable bridge section, and a bathtub transfer mechanism. The bridge section can be independently deployed and locked into position, allowing the transfer function to be added without redesigning the entire chair system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge section transitions from a retracted state during wheelchair operation to a deployed state during transfer operations. This dynamic transformation allows the device to adapt its structure based on operational needs, providing transfer capability only when required while maintaining a simple wheelchair configuration otherwise.
2Ease of operation
If the chair seat and chair back are adjusted independently, then positioning flexibility is improved, but stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seat and backrest are connected through a mechanical linkage that allows independent adjustment while maintaining coordinated movement. When the seat is tilted, the backrest automatically adjusts its angle through the linkage mechanism, ensuring the user's center of gravity remains supported and stable throughout the adjustment range.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple components are assembled to provide transfer apparatus, then transfer functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer apparatus components are permanently integrated into the wheelchair structure. The bridge section is attached to the wheelchair base and can be deployed with a single action, eliminating the need for users to assemble multiple separate components each time transfer is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The bridge section and locking mechanisms are pre-assembled and attached to the wheelchair in advance. During transfer operations, the user simply needs to activate the deployment mechanism and engage the lock, rather than assembling the entire transfer apparatus from separate parts at the moment of use.
Data Source
AI summary
A transfer apparatus for receiving the chair seat of a wheelchair and supporting the chair seat in the base of a washing enclosure. The transfer apparatus has a chair support member including a chair support track section that can be positioned in the washing enclosure base, a bridge portion with a bridge track section that is movably mounted to the chair support member. The transfer apparatus includes a lock system usable to secure the bridge portion in an in-use position and engaged with the wheelchair. A first lock inhibits rotational motion of the bridge portion. The first lock includes a retractable locking member that is biased to an extended, locking position. A second lock is usable to prevent longitudinal separation of the bridge portion and the wheelchair. The first and second lock can be automatically engaged when the bridge portion is moved to the in-use position.