Configurable Step Assistant Wall-Mounted Pivot Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional step stools and ladders occupy valuable floor space when in use and create obstacles when not in use, as they must be moved or left in place, potentially blocking walkways.
Innovation Solution
A configurable step assistant that attaches to a structure, featuring a pivotally connected stepping platform and support legs, allowing it to be folded away when not in use to maximize clearance and minimize footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional step stool or step ladder is placed on the floor to access high items, then a person can reach items that are normally out of reach, but the step stool occupies key floor space and potentially blocks walkways when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The step assistant transitions from a floor-based stationary object to a wall-mounted structure, utilizing the vertical dimension and wall surface area instead of floor space. The platform pivots between a stowed position (parallel to the wall) and a deployed position (perpendicular to the wall), allowing access to high items without occupying floor space during storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The step platform is designed with a pivot connection that allows it to dynamically change position between a horizontal stowed state (minimizing footprint) and a vertical deployed state (providing step function). This dynamic transformation enables the same structure to serve dual purposes: wall-mounted storage and functional step assistant.
2Area of stationary object
If a conventional step stool is moved away from the structure when not in use, then floor space is freed, but the step stool still takes up space elsewhere and requires manual relocation
Solution Approach 1:
The step assistant merges the support function with the wall structure itself, combining two separate elements (wall and step) into a single integrated system. The platform attaches to the wall via pivot connection, eliminating the need for separate floor-based support legs and reducing the overall footprint when stowed.
Solution Approach 2:
By mounting the step structure to the wall rather than placing it on the floor, the invention relocates the object from the horizontal plane to the vertical plane, utilizing wall surface area instead of floor space. This dimensional shift ensures walkway clearance is maintained while providing step functionality.
3Area of stationary object
If a step assistant is designed to fold away to save space, then floor space is maximized when not in use, but the structure becomes more complex with pivot connections
Solution Approach 1:
The step assistant is divided into distinct segments: a wall-mounted first portion (attachment head), a pivoting second portion (platform), and support legs. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while enabling the overall structure to fold away compactly when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot connection between the attachment head and platform provides a simple mechanical hinge that enables the platform to rotate between stowed and deployed positions. This single degree of freedom movement simplifies the mechanism while achieving the space-saving folding function.
Data Source
AI summary
A configurable step assistant is provided that includes a first portion configured to be attached to a structure, a second portion pivotally connected to the first portion, the second portion being moveable between a first position and a second position with respect to the first portion, a third portion pivotally connected to the second portion, the third portion being moveable between a first position and a second position with respect to the second portion, wherein, when the second portion is in the second position and the third portion is in the second position, the second portion defines a step for accommodating a user. An associated method is also provided.