Collapsible Walker Single-Motion Hinge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional walkers often require multiple steps to convert from an operative to a storage configuration, making them less convenient for users who need mobility assistance, especially those who are aged or physically disabled.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible walking device with a hinge mechanism and interconnecting joints that allows for a single-motion conversion from an operative to a storage configuration, featuring handle legs, rearward-facing support legs, cross bars, and a seat that can be easily collapsed by pulling a handle, along with optional wheels and a braking mechanism for mobility and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional walkers use multiple steps to convert from operative to storage configuration, then structural stability is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple conversion actions into a single motion. The hinge mechanism and interconnecting joints are designed so that pulling the handle simultaneously collapses the handle legs, rearward-facing support legs, and cross bars in one action, rather than requiring separate steps for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic elements including pivotable connections, hinge mechanisms, and interconnecting joints that allow the structure to transition smoothly from operative to storage configuration. These dynamic components enable the device to adapt its shape in response to user input while maintaining stability during use.
2Ease of operation
If the walking device is made collapsible for easy storage, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the walking device into separable components connected by pivotable joints and hinge mechanisms. The handle legs, rearward-facing support legs, and cross bars are distinct segments that can be independently positioned and collapsed, allowing for compact storage while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the collapse mechanism so that components nest within each other during the transition to storage configuration. The handle legs, support legs, and cross bars are arranged to fold into a compact, nested structure that minimizes the storage footprint while remaining stable during operation.
3Area of stationary object
If the device reduces width and depth for compact storage, then ease of storage improves, but stability during operation may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic hinge mechanisms and pivotable joints that allow the structure to transition between stable operative and compact storage configurations. During operation, the legs and cross bars form a stable geometric structure, while during storage, the same components fold into a compact nested arrangement, maintaining stability at both extremes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite structural elements combining rigid materials for the legs and frame with flexible or pivotable connection mechanisms. This composite approach allows the structure to maintain rigidity and stability during operation while enabling controlled folding and nesting for compact storage configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a collapsible walking device that can be disposed in an operative (open) configuration and a storage (closed) configuration. The open, operative configuration of the walking device provides a structure to aid a user in walking or standing. The closed, storage configuration allows for easy and convenient storage and transport of the walking device. The collapsible walking device can be transitioned from the operative configuration to the storage configuration in one motion. The walking device includes four support legs that extend to the ground from adjacent two handles, and a seat configured to support the user.