Bath Transfer Bridge With Interlocks for Stable Portable Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bath transfer systems for individuals with disabilities often require multiple devices for accessing toilets and showers, leading to instability, uneven transitions, lack of portability, and privacy issues, as well as increased costs due to non-collapsible and non-portable designs.
Innovation Solution
A portable bath transfer system comprising a chair portion with adjustable backrest and armrests, a connector bridge with adjustable support members, and a bathtub portion with anti-roll mechanisms and a volitional latch, allowing seamless transitions between toilet, shower, or bathtub without needing to change devices, and featuring collapsible and adjustable components for stability and privacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a track system is fixed to the shower or bathtub, then the transfer system provides stability during transfer, but the apparatus cannot be transported to another location
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is divided into separate modular components that can be detached from the shower/bathtub and reassembled at different locations. The track is segmented into sections that can be easily connected and disconnected, enabling both stable transfer operation and convenient relocation without permanent installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the track system is supported by the commode chair, then the apparatus can be moved, but stability problems occur during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
Independent support members act as intermediaries between the track system and the ground/floor, providing stable support during transfer operations. These support members are separate from the commode chair structure, allowing the chair to remain portable while the track system gains external stability during use through the intermediary support mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed interval adjustment is used for support members, then the device is simpler to manufacture, but unevenness and tilting occur when precise height matching is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The support members incorporate adjustable height mechanisms that allow dynamic adaptation to different height differentials between the bathroom floor and shower/bathtub. The adjustment capability enables the system to precisely match various heights while maintaining structural integrity and track levelness across different installation scenarios.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the commode chair supports one side of the track system, then the apparatus is portable, but the shower curtain cannot be fully closed around the person
Solution Approach 1:
The track system is extracted from the commode chair structure and positioned independently over the shower/bathtub area. This separation allows the shower curtain to be fully closed around the person for privacy while the commode chair remains positioned outside the shower enclosure, maintaining portability without compromising privacy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention involves a new and improved stable and portable bath transfer system that provides a disabled person complete access to bathroom facilities without having to transfer apparatus. The invention comprises a chair portion, a connector bridge portion, and a bathtub portion. The chair portion includes a base section with two or more support members and an upper chassis section including an adjustable backrest, a collapsible chair seat, and two swing-away armrests. The connector bridge portion includes connecting members attached by a cross member. The bathtub portion includes a base and four adjustable support members that provide increased stability and fine adjustment capability to match the chair portion height. The bath transfer system includes an interlocking system containing a continuous groove and lipped brackets to prevent the upper chassis section from tipping or lifting, and anti-roll mechanisms and a volitional latch to prevent undesired sliding of the upper chassis.