Walking Cane Integrated Grasper Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walking canes with integrated grabber tools compromise the strength and stability needed for balance due to elaborate accessories or separate tools that affect usability.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight walking cane with a concealable grasper featuring a spring-loaded trigger, internal rod, structural support tubing, and interlocking half boots, allowing the grasper to be easily opened and closed for object retrieval without compromising stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elaborate accessories or separate grabber tools are added to the cane, then the grasping function is improved, but the stability and strength of the cane is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cane and grabber tool into a single integrated device. The grabber mechanism is built into the cane structure itself, with the distal end of the cane forming the grabbing mechanism. This merging eliminates the need for separate tools while maintaining cane stability through unified structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cane is designed to perform multiple functions: providing stability and balance as a traditional cane, and functioning as a grabber tool for reaching objects. The distal end of the cane serves dual purposes as both a support point for walking and a grasping mechanism for picking up items.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate grabber tool is carried in addition to the cane, then the grasping capability is improved, but the device complexity and usability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cane and grabber tool into one device, eliminating the need to carry separate tools. The grabber mechanism is integrated into the cane structure, reducing the number of components the user must manage and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cane-grabber device provides universal functionality by combining the support function of a cane with the grasping function of a grabber tool, allowing users to benefit from both functions through a single device rather than multiple separate tools.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an attached grabber with separate actuation mechanism is added to the cane, then the grasping function is improved, but the ease of operation and stability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the actuation mechanisms of the cane and grabber into a single trigger system. The trigger located in the handle simultaneously controls both the cane's stability function and the grabber's grasping action, eliminating the need for separate actuators and simplifying user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The single trigger mechanism provides universal control for both the cane's support function and the grabber's grasping function, allowing users to operate both functions through one simple action rather than managing multiple separate controls.
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 cane maintains stability while providing a strong and convenient mechanism for reaching objects, eliminating the need for separate tools and minimizing accessory complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a spring loaded trigger; an internal rod operatively attached to the spring loaded trigger
Implementation Method 2
the grasper comprises two wrist halfs, a grasper spring, a grasper actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A lightweight, stable walking cane that contains an integrated grasper tool to extend a user's reach to pick up objects. The cane contains two configurations, a closed walking cane configuration for stability and balance, and an unlocked configuration with an open grasper tool for grasping objects.