Foldable Rollator Seat Hinge With Dual-Position Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional foldable seats for rollators and wheelchairs are either too complex, unsafe, or uncomfortable due to their design, particularly in allowing unwanted unlocking when the user is seated and the inability to lock the seat in a folded position.
Innovation Solution
A foldable seat design featuring two rigid plates connected by a hinge with a locking/unlocking system that can be actuated by the user, where the locking/unlocking mechanism is integrated within the hinge, allowing secure locking and unlocking in both unfolded and folded positions without the risk of unwanted unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking means are used to prevent seat folding, then the seat remains stable in unfolded position, but the structure becomes complex and cannot lock in folded position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking mechanisms are integrated into the hinge structure itself, merging the locking function with the existing folding mechanism. The hinge includes a locking element that engages with a locking surface on the seat plate, eliminating the need for separate complex locking assemblies while providing both unfolded and folded position stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge serves multiple functions: it enables the seat to fold, provides locking in unfolded position, and provides locking in folded position. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for additional dedicated locking components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability in both positions.
2Ease of operation
If locking means are positioned above the seat surface, then locking is enabled, but the seat cover requires recesses increasing production costs and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged into the hinge structure, which is positioned at the edge of the seat rather than above the seat surface. This integration eliminates the need for recesses in the seat cover, simplifying manufacturing and eliminating discomfort from protruding locking components.
3Ease of manufacture
If simple locking elements are used, then manufacturing is easier, but unwanted unlocking may occur when user is seated
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with specific local characteristics: it includes a locking surface that engages with the hinge, a positioning surface that prevents unwanted movement, and is integrated into the hinge structure. This localized design provides reliable locking without requiring complex mechanisms, balancing manufacturing simplicity with safety.
4Reliability
If rigid foldable seats are used, then comfort is improved, but the ability to fold easily is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged into the hinge structure, allowing the same hinge that enables folding to also provide locking function. This integration maintains easy folding operation while providing reliable locking in both unfolded and folded positions, resolving the contradiction between comfort and ease of folding.
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 solution provides a simple, compact, and safe mechanism for users to easily lock and unlock the seat in both positions, preventing accidental unlocking while seated and reducing production costs by eliminating the need for additional components.
Implementation Method 1
a locking element (21) integral in rotation with the first cylinder (11) and lodged at least partially inside an axial aperture (11c) formed at a distal end (11b) of the first cylinder (11), said distal end (11b) being adjacent to a proximal end (12a) of the second cylinder (12), said locking element being urged by a spring means (22) against said proximal end (12a)
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable seat for a rollator or a wheelchair includes a first plate and a second plate. The plates are rotatably moveable between an unfolded position and a folded position.A hinge pivotally connects said first plate to said second plate. An exemplary hinge comprises at least a first cylinder integral with said first plate and at least a second cylinder integral with said second plate.The seat further comprises a locking/unlocking system configured to be actuated by the user so as to lock, respectively unlock, said first and second plates into, respectively from, said unfolded position and/or said folded position. The locking/unlocking system being at least partially lodged inside said first and/or said second cylinder.