Crutch Underarm Spring Shock Absorber
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Standard walking crutches lack comfort due to the absence of shock absorption, particularly when weight is applied to the underarm rest, leading to an uncomfortable user experience.
Innovation Solution
Modifying standard aluminum adjustable height crutches by integrating springs adjacent to the underarm rest, using Pipe Spring Adapters and coil springs to create a shock absorber effect, allowing for adjustable strength and improved comfort through deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If springs are integrated adjacent to the underarm rest, then shock absorption and comfort are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The crutch is divided into functional segments: the rigid support structure and the flexible shock-absorbing section with springs adjacent to the underarm rest. This segmentation allows the comfort-critical area to have independent elastic elements while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Springs are pre-installed adjacent to the underarm rest to provide shock absorption before impact occurs. This beforehand cushioning mechanism absorbs shocks during weight-bearing and movement, improving comfort without requiring complex active control systems.
2Ease of operation
If springs are added to absorb shock, then comfort is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into modular steps: manufacturing the rigid crutch structure, separately preparing spring assemblies with Pipe Spring Adapters, and assembling them together. This modular approach simplifies manufacturing by allowing specialized components to be produced independently and then integrated.
Solution Approach 2:
Pipe Spring Adapters serve as intermediary components that facilitate the connection between the rigid crutch structure and the spring elements. These adapters simplify the assembly process by providing standardized interfaces, making manufacturing and assembly more straightforward despite adding functional complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable height feature is maintained, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The crutch design integrates multiple functions into a single device: height adjustment mechanism and shock absorption with springs. The adjustable height feature allows the same crutch structure to accommodate users of different sizes, while the spring mechanism provides shock absorption across all height settings, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
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 integration of springs provides a significant comfort enhancement for crutch users by absorbing shock with each movement, accommodating varying user weights and maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The springs actuate by the pressure of the crutch user putting weight on the under arm rest. Each time the crutch user moves, the springs move allowing for a much more comfortable crutch using experience.
Data Source
AI summary
The new Shock Absorber Under Arm Adjustable Height Walking Crutches are standard aluminum adjustable height walking crutches modified with 4 coil springs added under the arm rest, one spring in each crutch pipe below the arm rest. Two per crutch 4 per pair of crutches, the springs are accommodated by a Pipe Spring Adapter which holds the springs in place and also allows the springs to move freely. The crutches are used exactly the same as standard aluminum adjustable height crutches but with the addition of the springs and pipe spring adapters the crutches now have a shock absorber effect under the arm rest. The springs actuate each time the user applies weight to the arm rest therefore alleviating the pain caused to the under arms by standard crutches.