Foldable Walking Aid with Height-Adjustable Handlebars
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing walking aids for people with mobility impairments are inconvenient to store due to their inability to fold, and they lack height adjustment capabilities to accommodate users of different heights.
Innovation Solution
A conveniently stored walking aid with a height-adjustable T-shaped handle connector, a rotatable and foldable frame, and detachable components such as the steering mechanism, wheels, and U-shaped support pad, allowing for compact storage and user height customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the walking aid uses a fixed rigid structure, then it provides stable support, but it is inconvenient to store and occupies excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The walking aid is divided into multiple detachable segments including the handlebar assembly, frame sections, and wheel assemblies. These segments can be separated and stored independently, significantly reducing storage space while maintaining structural stability during use
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates rotatable and foldable joints that allow the structure to transition between an extended operational configuration and a compact folded configuration. This dynamic structure enables the walking aid to adapt its volume based on usage requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If the walking aid has a fixed height design, then it maintains structural simplicity, but it cannot accommodate users of different heights
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar stem is divided into multiple telescopic sections with adjustable lengths. Users can select and fix the appropriate height by engaging locking mechanisms at different positions, allowing customization for various user heights without complicating the overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The walking aid incorporates adjustable parameters including handlebar height, seat height, and wheelbase length. These parameters can be modified according to user needs through simple mechanical adjustments, providing versatility while maintaining structural simplicity
3Ease of operation
If the walking aid uses detachable components, then it improves storage convenience and adaptability, but it increases assembly complexity
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional components are integrated into combined assemblies that simplify the detachment and attachment process. For example, the wheel assemblies include integrated brakes and bearings, and the handlebar assembly combines steering mechanisms with height adjustment features, reducing the number of separate connections required
Data Source
AI summary
A conveniently stored walking aid, the walking aid comprises a support frame, handlebars, wheels, and a U-shaped support pad, the support frame comprises a height-adjustable T-shaped handle connector, a steering mechanism, a rotatable and foldable frame, a seat frame, and an arc-shaped connecting rod; the handlebars comprise a first handlebar and a second handlebar, the T-shaped handle connector comprises a T-shaped connecting rod and a supporting rod, the first handlebar and the second handlebar are respectively arranged at two ends of the T-shaped connecting rod, several linearly arranged first fixed holes are provided on the T-shaped connecting rod, a top of the supporting rod is provided with a second fixed hole that matches the first fixed holes, the T-shaped connecting rod and the supporting rod are fixed by a first fixing pin; the steering mechanism comprises a T-shaped sleeve and a U-shaped steering shaft.