Convertible Mobility Device Tool-Free Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobility devices that combine rollator and transport chair functionalities require complex conversions, often involving the removal or installation of additional components and tools, making them cumbersome and difficult to use effectively in both modes.
Innovation Solution
A convertible mobility device with laterally spaced side frame structures, a seat back member that can transition between rollator and transport chair modes without tools, and a handle assembly that adjusts between configurations to facilitate easy switching between rollator and transport modes, ensuring all components are integrated for seamless conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mobility devices combine rollator and transport chair functionalities, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases due to requiring additional components and tools for conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the rollator and transport chair functionalities into a single integrated device. The seat back member is integrally formed and pivotally connected to the frame, eliminating the need for separate components or tools for conversion. The handle assembly is also integrated into the frame structure, allowing seamless transition between modes without adding or removing parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions - serving as both a rollator for walking assistance and a transport chair for being pushed by another person. The seat back member can pivot between positions to accommodate both modes, and the handle assembly can be adjusted to serve different operational requirements, making the device universally applicable for both functionalities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobility devices require removal and replacement of components for mode conversion, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring tools and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The seat back member is integrally formed as a single piece that pivots on a connection to the frame. This integrated design eliminates the need for removal and replacement of separate components. The user can simply pivot the seat back member between positions without requiring tools or assembly steps, greatly simplifying the conversion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The seat back member is designed with pivotal movement capability, allowing it to dynamically change position between rollator and transport chair modes. This dynamic design enables easy conversion through simple pivoting action rather than static component assembly or disassembly.
3Ease of operation
If handle assembly is fixed in rollator mode configuration, then rollator functionality is improved, but transport chair functionality deteriorates due to difficulty in maneuvering seated person
Solution Approach 1:
The handle assembly is designed with adjustable positioning capability, allowing it to be moved between different configurations. In rollator mode, the handles are positioned for user comfort and control. In transport chair mode, the handles can be repositioned to extend behind the rear wheel, enabling the assistant to effectively maneuver the seated person up curbs and obstacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is designed to serve both rollator and transport chair functionalities. It can be configured for direct user control in rollator mode and repositioned for assistant control in transport chair mode, making it universally applicable for both operational modes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an assistive mobility device convertible between a rollator mode and a transport chair mode.