Lockable Braking Device for Walking Aids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional braking devices on walking aids do not allow for a locked braking state unless the user continuously holds the braking grip, failing to provide a steady braking effect once released.
Innovation Solution
A lockable braking device with a simplified structure featuring a controlling set, a braking unit, and a connecting wire, where the braking grip is connected to a crank and a connecting member, allowing for easy locking and unlocking by pulling or pushing the grip, respectively, to control the braking unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional braking device is used, then the braking unit can stop the walking aid when the braking grip is held, but the braking device cannot maintain a locked braking state when the grip is released
Solution Approach 1:
The braking device automatically maintains the braking state through the crank mechanism and connecting member engagement without requiring continuous user input. Once the braking grip is pulled to activate braking, the system self-locks through mechanical engagement, and the recovering member automatically resets the system after braking is released, making the system self-servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate mechanical feature through the crank and connecting member engagement system. This allows the braking state to be maintained independently of continuous grip application, separating the braking activation function from the continuous holding requirement.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to maintain braking state, then the braking stability is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The braking grip serves multiple functions: it activates the braking unit through the connecting member, and simultaneously engages the crank mechanism to establish the locked state. The connecting member itself serves dual purposes as both a force transmitter and a locking element when engaged with the crank, reducing the need for separate dedicated locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing braking control structure. The crank is integrated into the controlling set and works in conjunction with the connecting member and braking grip, rather than being a separate independent system. This merging approach maintains braking stability while avoiding excessive structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the braking device structure is simplified, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to maintain locked braking state may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The controlling set employs dynamic elements including the pivoted braking grip, the rotating crank, and the movable connecting member. These dynamic components allow the system to transition smoothly between braking and non-braking states while maintaining structural simplicity. The dynamic nature of these elements enables automatic engagement and disengagement without complex control mechanisms.
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 easy and convenient operation by allowing the braking device to maintain a locked state without continuous user input, providing a stable braking effect even when the grip is released, while simplifying the device's structure.
Implementation Method 1
The braking grip has an upper part for pushing the connecting member and a lower part oppositely disposed to the upper part for pushing the crank
Implementation Method 2
a recovering member is disposed between the cover and the connecting seat
Data Source
AI summary
A lockable braking device comprises a controlling set having a cover fixed to a frame, a braking grip pivoted to the cover and partially protruded out of the cover, a connecting member pivoted to the cover and one end thereof being propelled by the braking grip, and a crank pivoted to the cover and being motivated by the braking grip. Whereby, the braking grip adjustably controls a braking state of a braking unit to attain a common stopping performance and a constant stopping effect. Accordingly, the structure of the braking device is simplified and the operation thereof is more easy and handy.