Lift Platform Vertical Horizontal Movement Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for enabling access to establishments with stepped entrances for individuals with reduced mobility often require assistance, have a steep slope, or encumber space, and are difficult to adapt to different configurations.
Innovation Solution
A lift system with a platform and a mechanism comprising two mobile means on either side of the entrance, allowing vertical and horizontal movement, with a small footprint, minimal space modification, and easy installation in various configurations, ensuring independent and safe access for individuals with reduced mobility without obstructing able-bodied access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a removable inclined ramp is used, then it can be easily installed and removed, but it has a slope greater than 5% requiring assistance and cannot be used independently by persons with reduced mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device is divided into multiple independent components: a platform for the user, a lifting mechanism with movable means, and control systems. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the platform provides a stable surface for independent boarding, while the lifting mechanism delivers the mechanical assistance needed, resolving the contradiction between ease of installation and independent usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional inclined ramp mechanical system with a vertical lifting mechanism. Instead of relying on a long inclined plane that requires assistance, the system uses a platform that can be vertically lifted by a controlled mechanism, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate a steep slope and enabling independent operation.
2Ease of operation
If a motorized lifting device with parallelogram mechanism is used, then it enables independent access for persons with reduced mobility, but it substantially encumbers interior space and public domain surrounding the entrance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic lifting mechanism where the platform and supporting structures can move between deployed and retracted positions. During operation, the platform is positioned at the entrance for access; when not in use, the mechanism retracts to minimize space occupation, thus resolving the contradiction between enabling independent access and reducing space encumbrance.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of expanding the lifting device horizontally which would encumber public domain space, the patent utilizes vertical movement dimension. The platform lifts vertically to bridge the height difference, allowing the mechanism to remain compact in the horizontal plane while still providing full access functionality, thereby resolving the space occupation issue.
3Reliability
If a parallelogram mechanism is used, then lifting motion is achieved, but great adjustment precision is required making the device difficult to adapt to different setup configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the lifting mechanism with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate various entrance configurations. The system includes adjustable mounting brackets and flexible positioning systems that allow the same device to be installed on different types of entrances (doors, thresholds, step variations) without requiring precise custom adjustments, thus resolving the contradiction between lifting precision and adaptability.
4Reliability
If the platform is moved vertically between lower and upper positions, then access height difference is compensated, but the device encroaches on public domain surrounding the room
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the platform can be stored within or alongside the vertical lifting structure when not in use. The platform nests into the housing or adjacent structural elements, allowing the system to provide full vertical lifting capability while maintaining a compact footprint that does not encroach on public domain space during normal conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The lift (10) has a platform (12) and a moving mechanism that is utilized for moving the platform between a lower position and an upper position. The moving mechanism includes two average mobile units (16') that is placed on both sides of an entry (E) of a room for allowing movement of the platform between the lower position and an intermediate position. The intermediate position is placed vertical to the lower position and is at same height as an upper position. A horizontal lateral adjustment system allows moving of the platform between the intermediate position and the upper position. An independent claim is also included for a method for displacement of a lift.