Folding Rollator With X-Shaped Cross-Linkage for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a rollator that folds compactly and easily while being sturdy enough to support users for extended periods, as existing models often compromise on compactness and stability.
Innovation Solution
A folding rollator design featuring an A-frame with hinged uprights that pivot front-to-back and a foldable seat that pivots side-to-side, supported by an X-shaped cross-linkage, allowing for a compact and stable fold while maintaining structural integrity and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the rollator uses a traditional rigid frame structure, then structural stability is improved, but compactness and ease of storage deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The rollator frame is divided into multiple segments connected by hinges. The front and rear uprights can pivot relative to each other, and the seat can fold independently, allowing the structure to be segmented for compact storage while maintaining stability during use
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates dynamic hinge joints that allow the structure to transition between rigid (stable) and compact (folded) states. The hinges enable controlled movement of uprights and seat, providing structural stability when needed and compactness when folded
2Volume of moving object
If the rollator is designed to fold in multiple directions, then compactness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple folding functions are merged into a unified hinge system. The same hinge mechanism enables both front-to-back folding of uprights and side-to-side folding of the seat, reducing the number of separate folding mechanisms needed
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism utilizes two-dimensional folding capability - front-to-back pivoting of uprights and side-to-side folding of the seat - allowing compact storage in multiple directions simultaneously without requiring complex three-dimensional folding mechanisms
3Weight of moving object
If the rollator uses lightweight materials and minimal structure, then portability is improved, but load-bearing capacity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge joints and folding mechanisms are pre-engineered with locking or stabilizing features that activate automatically when the rollator is in use, providing necessary structural strength without adding permanent weight. The structure is prepared to bear loads only when needed
Data Source
AI summary
A rollator to aid mobility is described. The rollator comprises an A-frame with two pairs of uprights, each pair of uprights connected by at least one respective hinge to allow each pair of uprights to be folded or pivot front-to-back and a seat disposed between the two pairs of uprights, the seat foldable side-to-side. To fold compactly the rollator comprises an X-shaped cross-linkage comprising four linkage members. A method of manufacturing the rollator is also disclosed. The four linkage members may extend from a respective upright to a central hub underneath the seat. The cross-linkage may fold or pivot at the central hub in both front-to back and side-to-side dimensions when the rollator is folded away.