Counterbalanced Lift-Arm Storage for Accessible Variable Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counterbalance systems are limited in their ability to adapt to changing loads and user needs, often requiring specific designs and being cumbersome, making them difficult to integrate with various devices and structures, especially in storage systems where accessibility is a challenge for individuals with mobility impairments.
Innovation Solution
A force engine and counterbalancing system that automatically adjusts to changing loads by optimizing the magnitude, path, and orientation of the load, using interchangeable components and kinematic transformations to provide customizable force distribution, allowing for easy integration with various applications and structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing counterbalance systems are used in storage systems, then load balancing is provided, but the systems are difficult to access and integrate due to weight, size, shape, and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbalance system incorporates a carriage that moves along a defined path to dynamically adjust the position of stored goods. The system transitions from static storage to dynamic repositioning, allowing goods to be brought within accessible height ranges for users with mobility impairments.
Solution Approach 2:
A carriage acts as an intermediary mechanism between the stored goods and the user. The carriage travels along a path defined by lift arms and transfers goods between storage positions and accessible positions, mediating the interaction between the counterbalance system and the user.
2Manufacturing precision
If counterbalance systems are designed for specific loads and motions, then balancing precision is improved, but adaptability to different applications and user needs is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs universal components including interchangeable lift arms, adjustable carriage configurations, and a modular path definition system. These components can be adapted to accommodate different load weights, storage geometries, and user accessibility requirements while maintaining precise counterbalancing through the defined carriage path.
3Force
If existing counterbalance systems are used, then force compensation is provided, but the systems are cumbersome and require complex load adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbalance system is segmented into distinct functional components: lift arms for support, a carriage for goods transfer, and a defined path for motion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing complexity in load adjustments.
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
The system enhances accessibility by minimizing user input required to raise or lower loads, providing flexible and adaptable counterbalancing forces that accommodate different loads and user needs, improving accessibility in storage systems for individuals with mobility challenges.
Implementation Method 1
an assistance mechanism attached to the one or more lift arms configured to provide force to lift or lower the tray
Data Source
AI summary
A storage system and associated method of assembling the storage system. The storage system includes one or more rails for attaching the storage system to a structure. The storage system further includes one or more arms attached to the one or more rails. The storage system further includes a counterbalance mechanism attached to the one or more arms configured to provide a force to assist lifting or lowering a load applied to the one or more lift arms. The storage system further includes a release for engaging the counterbalance mechanism to assist a user in raising or lowering the one or more lift arms.