Footrest device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional footrest devices have complex mechanisms for switching between curved and planar surfaces, leading to increased weight, cost, and potential malfunctions, which do not consider user ergonomics and require leaning or lifting to switch positions.
Innovation Solution
A footrest device with a base portion featuring indentations on side surfaces for easy switching between positions using toes or the front portion of the foot, eliminating the need for leaning or lifting, and incorporating limit stops to restrict movement, designed to accommodate ergonomic standards and reduce component complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mechanisms are used for switching between curved and planar surfaces, then position switching is achieved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes complex switching mechanisms entirely, extracting only the essential functional elements (indentations on side surfaces) needed for position switching. This leaves the core structure while eliminating unnecessary complexity, allowing users to flip between curved and planar surfaces using simple toe or foot pressure on the indentations.
Solution Approach 2:
The footrest device enables self-service operation where users independently switch between positions using their own feet. The indentations are strategically positioned to be activated by toe or foot pressure, allowing the device to serve itself without requiring external mechanisms, levers, or complex controls.
2Ease of operation
If conventional mechanisms are used for switching between curved and planar surfaces, then position switching is achieved, but device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes heavy mechanical switching components, retaining only the essential structural elements. The indentations are formed directly in the side surfaces of the base portion, eliminating the need for separate switching mechanisms and reducing overall device weight while maintaining position switching functionality.
3Ease of operation
If conventional mechanisms are used for switching between curved and planar surfaces, then position switching is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts complex mechanical components that would increase manufacturing cost. By forming indentations directly in the side surfaces of the base portion, the design simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces material requirements, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining ease of position switching.
4Ease of operation
If complex mechanisms are used for position switching, then switching functionality is achieved, but reliability decreases due to multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes multiple mechanical parts and switching components that would create potential failure points. By retaining only the essential base portion with integrated indentations, the design minimizes the number of parts, eliminates complex mechanisms, and thereby improves reliability while maintaining position switching functionality.
5Adaptability or versatility
If conventional footrest designs are used, then basic foot support is provided, but ergonomic standards are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different surface profiles (curved and planar) in different regions of the base portion. The curved surface provides ergonomic support for the heel or arch, while the planar surface offers a flat support area, allowing users to select the most comfortable configuration for their specific ergonomic needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A footrest device includes a base portion adapted to be switched between a first position and a second position. The base portion includes a first surface having a curved profile, wherein the first surface provides foot support to a user when the base portion is in the first position. The base portion also includes a second surface having a planar profile, wherein the second surface provides foot support to the user when the base portion is in the second position. The base portion further includes a pair of side surfaces extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein at least one of the pair of side surfaces defines an indentation. The footrest device also includes at least one limit stop projecting from the first surface of the base portion, wherein the at least one limit stop is disposed proximate at least one of the pair of side surfaces.