Hip-Supported Mobility Assistance Frame to Reduce Joint Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobility assistance devices, such as crutches and walkers, cause discomfort and limit the ability to stand comfortably and safely, especially for individuals with mobility challenges, as they require body weight to be supported by arms, leading to stress on joints and often necessitate the use of wheelchairs, which can exacerbate health issues.
Innovation Solution
A mobility assistance apparatus with first and second frames positioned on either side of the user, a hinge arm mechanism, and a harness or walking seat that transfers body weight from the legs to the frames, allowing standing or walking without requiring the user's arms for support, incorporating features like motorized wheels, FES, and adjustable height to facilitate comfortable and safe standing and walking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mobility devices (crutches, walkers) are used, then mobility support is provided, but joint stress increases and comfort decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical support system (crutches, walkers requiring arm support) with a harness-based system that transfers body weight through the hip or pelvis to the frame, eliminating the need for arm and hand support and thereby reducing stress on upper body joints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a harness as an intermediary component between the user's body and the mobility device frame. This harness acts as a mediator to transfer body weight from the legs through the hip/pelvis region to the frame, providing mechanical advantage and reducing joint stress on the user
2Stability of the object's composition
If arm support is required for mobility, then stability is achieved, but arm freedom is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the arm-based support mechanism with a hip/pelvis-based support system. The harness engages the user's hip or pelvis region to provide stable support, freeing the arms from bearing weight and allowing them to be used for other purposes while maintaining device stability
3Reliability
If wheelchairs are used for mobility, then mobility is provided, but health deterioration accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic mobility system that allows users to stand and walk in an upright posture rather than remaining seated in a wheelchair. The device provides adjustable support that adapts to the user's movement needs, enabling active mobility while maintaining proper posture and promoting cardiovascular health
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operational parameter from seated mobility (wheelchair) to standing/walking mobility. By adjusting the harness tension and frame height, the device enables users to transition from a passive seated position to an active standing posture, improving circulation and reducing health deterioration associated with prolonged sitting
4Ease of operation
If standing support is provided, then comfort improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a multi-functional device that can accommodate users with varying mobility needs. The adjustable harness system and height-adjustable frame allow the same basic structure to provide comfortable standing support for different body types and mobility levels, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices
Data Source
AI summary
A mobility assistance apparatus includes first and second frames positioned on left and right sides of a user; a hinge arm mechanism coupled to the first and second frames; and a pivotable securing unit or a walking seat coupled to the frames to transfer at least a portion of the user's body weight from the legs and to transfer weight through the user's hip or pelvis to the first and second frame enabling the user to stand or work for an extended period without requiring the user's arms to hold the frame.