Magnetic Crutch Coupling for Stable Self-Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional crutches have unstable equilibrium when supported, leading to potential falls and difficulty in retrieval without assistance, especially for individuals with mobility issues, as they require bending down or finding specific support locations.
Innovation Solution
The use of cylindrical diametric-type magnets in the handgrips and forearm supports allows for stable mating and secure attachment of crutches in various positions, enabling them to be supported anywhere, including on ferromagnetic surfaces, and facilitating easy retrieval without manual effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional crutches are supported against a wall or surface, then they can be kept close to the user, but they have unstable equilibrium and fall over
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate crutches into a single stable structure by magnetically coupling their handgrips together. When the handgrips are joined with magnets facing each other, the crutches form a unified stable equilibrium structure that can be reliably supported against walls, tables, chairs, or hung from hooks without falling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical coupling mechanisms (such as clips, latches, or interlocking structures) with magnetic coupling. The magnets embedded in the handgrips create an invisible mechanical connection that automatically stabilizes the crutches when brought together, eliminating the need for complex mechanical attachment systems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If crutches are placed on the ground for stability, then they remain stationary, but they become an obstacle and are difficult for the user to retrieve due to mobility issues
Solution Approach 1:
By magnetically coupling the handgrips of two crutches together, the patent creates a compact unified structure that can be reliably placed against walls, tables, chairs, or hung from hooks. This eliminates the need to place crutches on the ground, keeping them elevated and accessible while maintaining stability through the magnetic connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If crutches are supported against a wall or surface, then they can be kept close to the user, but the user requires assistance to retrieve them due to inability to bend down
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling of handgrips creates a stable unified structure that can be supported in multiple locations (walls, tables, chairs, hooks), and the compact nature of the coupled crutches makes them easier to reach and retrieve even from elevated positions, reducing or eliminating the need to bend down.
4Stability of the object's composition
If magnets are used to couple crutches, then stable equilibrium is achieved, but the manufacturing and fitting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical coupling systems with simple magnetic coupling. Magnets can be embedded directly into the handgrip structures during manufacturing, creating a simple yet effective coupling mechanism that requires no additional mechanical components, adjustment mechanisms, or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, distribution) to achieve stable coupling. By carefully selecting magnet strength and orientation, the system achieves reliable crutch coupling without requiring complex mechanical structures, adjusting the physical parameters of the magnetic field rather than the mechanical complexity of the coupling system.
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 solution prevents crutch falls, allows secure support without ergonomic strain, enables one-handed movement, and allows retrieval of fallen crutches or metal objects using magnetic attachment, enhancing user autonomy and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
crutches (1) which can be mated by magnetic means
Implementation Method 2
they remain in stable equilibrium by themselves or can be supported against a wall, table, chair, or even be hung from any hook, frame or projection
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to crutches (1) that can be mated by magnetic means, consisting of conventional crutches (1) incorporating magnetic means (7,11) configured for occasionally attaching same to one another such that they remain in stable equilibrium by themselves and can be supported anywhere. The crutches are provided with a grip (2) having a cavity (6) at its end farthest away from the shaft (4), where a cylindrical diametric-type magnet (7) is housed, being able to move with complete freedom inside the mentioned cavity (6). The crutches (1) are provided with other magnets (11) which are placed at the ends of the forearm support (3), such that when the forearm supports (3) are perfectly coupled according to the plane of junction (10), the contact of the ends of the grips (2) also occurs.