Axillary Crutch Attachment for Hands-Free Item Carrying

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional axillary crutches require users to engage both hands for operation, limiting their ability to perform everyday tasks and compromising comfort and independence, with existing modifications often introducing complexity, instability, or discomfort.

Innovation Solution

A crutch device with an elongate support structure and attachment body that allows hands-free operation by positioning the support structure laterally on the crutch, enabling users to carry items while using the crutch, featuring a 'J' shaped aluminum structure for counterpressure and adjustable attachment points for ergonomic comfort.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional axillary crutches are used, then stability and support are provided, but users cannot carry items hands-free

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveitem carrying capabilityVSAvoidhands-free operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The crutch is divided into functional segments: the main crutch structure for support, and a separate attachment body with support structure receiving portion for item carrying. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function independently while working together as an integrated system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment body serves multiple functions: it provides a support structure receiving portion for lateral attachment of items, includes an upright receiving portion for crutch integration, and creates a functional platform that enables both crutch operation and item carrying simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing modifications are added to enable hands-free operation, then item carrying is possible, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehands-free item carryingVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment body merges the crutch attachment function with the item support function into a single integrated component. The upright receiving portion and support structure receiving portion are combined in one attachment body, eliminating the need for separate attachment mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral orientation of the support structure receiving portion allows items to be naturally positioned and supported without requiring additional active mechanisms. The structure itself provides the carrying capability through its geometry and attachment configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If complex attachment mechanisms are used, then hands-free operation is enabled, but stability and ease of use are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehands-free operationVSAvoidcrutch stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of attaching items to the top or front of the crutch where they might interfere with balance, the support structure receiving portion is positioned laterally on the crutch. This inverted attachment approach places items in a position that does not compromise crutch stability or user balance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

4Ease of operation

If traditional crutch design is used, then simplicity is maintained, but user comfort and independence are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser independenceVSAvoidcrutch structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment body extends the crutch functionality into a lateral dimension rather than only vertical or forward extensions. The support structure receiving portion is oriented laterally, creating a new spatial dimension for item carrying that does not interfere with the traditional vertical support function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20240398652A1Axillary crutch device, system, kit, and method for hands-free mobility and item carrying

Publication Date: 2024.12.05 THE CRUTCH COMPANION CO

AI summary

The disclosure relates to an innovative crutch attachment designed to enhance the functionality of traditional axillary crutches. This attachment allows users to operate the crutch hands-free, thereby improving mobility and independence. The device features an ergonomically designed structure that can be easily attached to existing crutches, enabling users to maneuver the crutch using their forearm or wrist instead of the conventional hand grip. This design reduces the need for hand engagement, allowing the user to have their hand free to carry items they otherwise could not carry in transit such as cups and plates. The attachment is adjustable and can be customized to fit various crutch styles and user preferences, ensuring a wide range of applicability and ease of use. This disclosure addresses the limitations of current crutch designs by providing a simple, effective solution for enhancing user mobility, convenience, functionality, and quality of life during recovery periods.