Convertible ambulatory device kit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional crutches and canes lack versatility, as they are designed solely for ambulation and do not provide a means to support objects or serve as a seat when a stable surface is not available, limiting mobility and comfort for individuals with lower limb or back injuries.
Innovation Solution
A crutch that can selectively convert into a cane, table, or bench through a system of pivot joints and attachable components, including a handle, grabbing arms, foot, tabletop panel, and seat cushion, allowing for multiple configurations to support objects and provide a seating area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a crutch is designed solely for ambulation, then it provides reliable support for walking, but it lacks versatility to serve as a table or bench when needed
Solution Approach 1:
The crutch is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as an ambulatory device for walking, and can be converted into a table or bench for resting and placing objects. The upper section can be pivoted to different positions and configurations, allowing the same device to fulfill different needs throughout the day without requiring separate items.
Solution Approach 2:
The crutch is divided into distinct sections (upper section, lower section, middle section) that can move independently relative to each other. The upper section includes a crutch pad, handle, and pivot joint that can be repositioned, while the lower section remains relatively fixed. This segmentation enables the device to transform between configurations while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a crutch is converted into a table or bench, then it provides additional support surfaces for objects or seating, but it increases the complexity of the device structure
Solution Approach 1:
The crutch incorporates pivot joints and movable connections that allow the upper section to be dynamically repositioned. The device transitions from a static ambulatory support to a dynamic multi-position device, enabling the user to convert between crutch, table, and bench configurations by simply moving sections relative to each other rather than assembling or disassembling components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the upper section is folded downwardly adjacent to the lower section, then the handle becomes exposed for cane configuration, but the crutch structure requires additional pivot joints
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot joint serves multiple purposes: it enables the upper section to fold downward for cane configuration, allows perpendicular positioning for table configuration, and supports the transformation to bench configuration when combined with the lower section's movement. By combining multiple functions into a single joint mechanism, the design reduces the number of separate components needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A kit for converting a crutch to a cane, table, or bench is disclosed. The kit includes a crutch, a picker, a tabletop panel, a foot pad, and a seat cushion. The crutch includes an upper section connected to a middle section by a first pivot and a lower section connected to the middle section by a second pivot. The first pivot and the second pivot orient the sections of crutch to position the crutch in an upright crutch configuration, a table configuration, a cane configuration, or a bench configuration. The picker attaches to the upper section when the crutch is in the table configuration. The foot pad attaches to the picker to stabilize the picker upright. The tabletop panel attaches to the upper section when the crutch is in the table configuration. The seat cushion attaches to the lower section when the crutch is in the bench configuration.