Compression Mechanism for Sitting-to-Standing Mobility Aid
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility aids, such as canes and walkers, do not effectively assist users in transitioning from a sitting position to a standing position, limiting user mobility and independence.
Innovation Solution
A standing and walking support device with a compression mechanism, comprising a grasping section, a contacting section, and a compression section that compresses and decompresses to aid users in standing and walking, utilizing components like coil springs, hydraulic shock absorbers, or elastomer shock absorbers, and featuring a pushable button for activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mobility aids like canes and walkers are used, then users can walk and move around, but users cannot effectively transition from sitting to standing position
Solution Approach 1:
The support device combines multiple functions into a single unit: it provides both sitting-to-standing assistance through compression mechanism and walking support through stable base and handle. This eliminates the need for separate devices for different mobility needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression section automatically activates when the user applies weight during the sitting-to-standing transition, eliminating the need for manual activation. The device self-regulates the compression and decompression cycle based on user input.
2Ease of operation
If a compression mechanism is added to assist sitting-to-standing transition, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, readily available compression components such as coil springs, elastomer shock absorbers, or hydraulic shock absorbers. These are成熟, reliable technologies that can be easily manufactured and maintained, avoiding complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the inherent compression and decompression parameters of spring or shock absorber elements to provide the necessary assistance force. By selecting appropriate spring constants or damping coefficients, the device can be tuned for different user weight ranges and mobility needs without changing the basic structure.
3Ease of operation
If the device is designed to compress and decompress for standing assistance, then sitting-to-standing transition is aided, but stability during walking may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one, where the compression section adapts its stiffness based on the user's needs. During sitting-to-standing, the compression mechanism is active and compliant. During walking, the same mechanism provides shock absorption while the broad base maintains stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device separates the compression function from the support function through spatial segmentation. The compression section is localized between the base and handle, while the broad base and long handle provide structural stability during walking. This allows independent optimization of each function.
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 device guides users to shift their center of gravity forward, facilitating the transition from sitting to standing and providing support during walking by absorbing shocks and bumps, enhancing user mobility and independence.
Implementation Method 1
the compression section comprises one or more of a coil spring, a hydraulic shock absorber, an elastomer shock absorber and a stretchable cord
Implementation Method 2
the compression section enables the device to compress and decompress in order to assist a user as the user stands and walks
Implementation Method 3
the compression section comprises one or more of a coil spring, a hydraulic shock absorber, an elastomer shock absorber and a stretchable cord
Implementation Method 4
the compression section comprises one or more of a coil spring, a hydraulic shock absorber, an elastomer shock absorber and a stretchable cord
Data Source
AI summary
A standing and walking support device and system supports and aids a user as the user moves from a sitting position to a standing position. A user is able to grasp and hold a top section of the device as the user stands up. As weight of the user and/or force is placed on the top section, the device compresses under the user's weight and/or force. The device guides the user to shift their center of gravity forward. As the user stands up, the device decompresses to return to its original height. The device and system is then usable as a support as the user walks.