Lateral Movement Wheelchair Attachment for Vehicle Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical transport solutions, such as wheelchairs, lack the ability to move laterally for precise positioning during loading and unloading, especially into vehicles, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded device is attached to the tipping levers of a wheelchair, featuring a frame with a primary structure, suspension, and latch system, allowing the wheelchair to be tipped back and moved laterally using attached wheels for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wheelchair is designed for standard use only, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability for different loading scenarios is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The wheelchair system is divided into two distinct operational modes: standard mode for general use and lateral movement mode for loading/unloading. The lateral movement mechanism is a separate, attachable module that can be deployed only when needed, rather than being integrated into the basic wheelchair structure. This segmentation allows the wheelchair to gain enhanced adaptability while maintaining simplicity during standard operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheelchair transitions dynamically between different operational states. The tipping levers can be activated to convert the wheelchair from a stable, horizontal position to a tipped-back position that enables lateral wheel engagement. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the same device to serve multiple functions without requiring permanently complex structures.
2Measurement precision
If lateral movement capability is added to the wheelchair, then the positioning precision improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral movement mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-operating to the extent possible. Once the tipping levers are activated and the mechanism is engaged, the lateral movement and positioning are achieved through the mechanical action of the wheels on the ground, without requiring additional complex controls or manual manipulation. The spring-loaded design provides automatic engagement and disengagement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The tipping levers are pre-positioned and spring-loaded to facilitate easy activation. The mechanism is designed so that the preliminary action of pulling the tipping levers automatically initiates the sequence of events leading to lateral movement, reducing the operational steps required from the user.
3Ease of manufacture
If the wheelchair structure is simplified, then the ease of manufacture improves, but the functionality for lateral movement is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral movement functionality is implemented as a separate, modular attachment rather than being integrated into the main wheelchair structure. This allows the basic wheelchair to be manufactured using simple, proven designs while the lateral movement capability is added as a distinct module that can be produced and attached separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral movement mechanism is designed to be universally compatible with standard wheelchair tipping lever configurations. By utilizing existing wheelchair components (tipping levers, frame attachment points) and adding a multi-functional mechanism that can both move laterally and provide suspension, the invention achieves enhanced functionality without requiring complete redesign of the wheelchair structure.
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 precise lateral movement of the wheelchair for efficient loading and unloading, improving the handling and positioning process, particularly when accessing vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
The lateral movement wheelchair is a spring loaded device that is attached to the tipping levers of a wheelchair
Data Source
AI summary
The lateral movement wheelchair is a device adapted for use with wheelchairs. The lateral movement wheelchair is a spring loaded device that is attached to the tipping levers of a wheelchair. When the lateral movement wheelchair is lowered to the ground, the wheelchair can be tipped back allowing a first wheel and a second wheel to move the wheelchair laterally for the purpose of positioning the wheelchair precisely for loading and unloading (for example a passenger vehicle). The lateral movement wheelchair comprises a frame, a first wheel, and a second wheel.