Modular Anthropomorphic Test Device Cart with Reconfigurable Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storage carts for anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs) are limited in their functionality, allowing only one storage position, creating ergonomic challenges for technicians due to tripping hazards, cumbersome clothing installation, and instability during transport and testing.
Innovation Solution
A modular cart with interchangeable members and posts that allow the ATD to be positioned either for storage or ready-to-test configurations, maintaining thoracic spine alignment, keeping extremities within the cart footprint, and facilitating easier garment installation and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional storage carts with fixed chair and bracket structures are used, then the ATD can be stored in a stable upright position, but the cart cannot accommodate different positioning needs and creates ergonomic challenges for technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The cart structure is divided into separate functional components: a base unit and detachable positioning members (chair back, seat, headrest, footrest). These segmented components can be selectively attached and reconfigured to create different positioning configurations, enabling both upright storage and reclined test positions while improving technician ergonomics through flexible adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cart transitions from a static fixed-structure design to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The positioning members can be detached, repositioned, and reattached to change the cart's functional configuration between storage mode and test mode, allowing the structure to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring a completely different cart design.
2Device complexity
If the ATD is stored in a fixed upright position on conventional carts, then the storage structure is simple, but the ATD extremities hang off the cart creating tripping hazards and instability during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The footrest is implemented as a separate detachable positioning member rather than an integrated fixed component. This segmentation allows the footrest to be positioned to support the ATD's extremities within the cart footprint during storage, preventing tripping hazards, while maintaining the overall simplicity of the storage structure through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning members serve multiple functions: they provide structural support during storage, prevent extremities from hanging off the cart to eliminate tripping hazards, and can be reconfigured for different test positions. This multi-functionality addresses the tripping hazard issue without requiring additional dedicated components.
3Reliability
If the storage bracket is permanently attached to the cart, then the storage function is reliable, but the ATD clothing cannot be installed until the bracket is removed making the process cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The storage bracket is separated from the main cart structure and implemented as a detachable positioning member that can be selectively removed. This segmentation allows technicians to quickly detach the bracket for clothing installation without compromising the reliability of the storage function when the bracket is attached, significantly reducing the time required for clothing installation while maintaining storage reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage bracket transitions from a permanent fixed attachment to a dynamic detachable component. This allows the system to switch between storage mode (bracket attached for reliable support) and clothing installation mode (bracket detached for easy access), optimizing both storage reliability and operational efficiency without requiring two separate carts or complex mechanisms.
4Quantity of substance
If the cart has a heavy ATD installed, then the storage capacity is sufficient, but the cart becomes difficult to move and unsteady during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The cart base is designed as a separate modular unit from the positioning members. This segmentation allows the heavy ATD to be securely positioned on the base while the base itself remains a manageable size for mobility. The detachable positioning members can be removed or reconfigured to reduce weight when the cart needs to be moved, maintaining sufficient storage capacity when needed while improving ease of operation during transport.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular cart for use with an anthropomorphic test device, an assembly including an anthropomorphic test device and a method of placing an anthropomorphic test device on a modular cart. The cart includes a wheeled base with a pair of upstanding posts that together with members that can be interchangeably secured to one of the posts in order to form one of a storage position or a ready-to-test position. In this way, when an anthropomorphic test device is placed on the cart between these members, the members and the posts cooperate with one another to have the anthropomorphic test device be in a generally seating position that can accommodate both storage and testing without having to reposition the anthropomorphic test device.