Gyroscope-Based Wheelchair Driving Module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Powered wheelchairs are often large and cumbersome, leading to stigma among users who view the need for electronic systems as a sign of worsening disability, and there is a need for simpler, more discrete means of powering wheelchairs to address this issue.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a driving module and a control module that can be coupled to wheelchair wheels, allowing the wheelchair to be driven by actuating the wheels, with gyroscopes and wheel coupling members to enable independent movement and direction control without additional human assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If powered wheelchairs are equipped with electronic systems to enable autonomous driving, then the driving functionality is improved, but the size and complexity of the device increases leading to stigma among users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the core driving function from complex electronic systems and implements it through a simple mechanical gyroscope-based control mechanism. The gyroscope module with pivot point and control arms provides autonomous driving capability through purely mechanical means, eliminating the need for bulky electronic control systems while maintaining the ability to respond to user inputs via wheelchair wheel actuation.
2Ease of operation
If traditional electronic control systems are used, then driving control is achieved, but the system becomes large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic control systems with a mechanical control system based on gyroscope principles. The control module uses a gyroscope mounted on a pivot point with control arms that mechanically translate wheelchair wheel movements into directional control signals, providing ease of operation through simple mechanical leverage rather than complex electronics.
3Ease of operation
If wheel coupling members are designed to enable independent rolling into coupled engagement, then ease of coupling is improved, but additional mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel coupling members are designed to enable the wheelchair to couple to the driving system through its own movement. By rolling the wheelchair forward, the wheels automatically engage with the coupling members, which then lift the wheels into the elevated position. This self-coupling mechanism eliminates the need for manual assistance or complex automated coupling systems.
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
Enables users to drive their wheelchairs in various directions (forward, backward, left, right) with a natural input mechanism, increasing independence and reducing stigma by providing a compact, user-friendly, and stigma-reducing solution.
Implementation Method 1
The control module may comprise at least one gyroscope which is operative to be actuated between a plurality of states responsive to receiving the input generated by actuation of the at least one wheelchair wheel
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 1D
AI summary
An apparatus is provided for coupling to a wheelchair. The apparatus couples to the rear wheels of the wheelchair to lift the wheels from a floor surface and replaces the rear wheels with battery powered gyroscopically powered wheels.