Modular Standing Frame With Adjustable Alignment and Low-Shear Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standing frames are typically purpose-specific and lack adjustability, forcing users to purchase multiple devices and often resulting in uncomfortable alignment and shear issues due to misalignment of components with the user's body as they transition between sitting and standing postures.
Innovation Solution
A modular standing frame comprising a chair module, glider module, and workstation module that can be interchanged, featuring adjustable components such as offset hinges, extensor mechanisms, and adjustable foot rests to accommodate various user sizes and provide multi-use functionality while minimizing shear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standing frame is designed for a specific purpose, then it can provide specialized functionality, but it cannot be used for multiple purposes
Solution Approach 1:
The standing frame is designed with interchangeable modules that can be attached to a common base structure. The base module includes a seat, backrest, and support legs, while additional modules such as workstation modules, exercise modules, and mobility modules can be attached to provide different functionalities. This allows a single standing frame to serve multiple purposes including working, exercising, and mobility assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The standing frame is divided into separate functional modules that can be independently selected and attached. Each module performs a specific function (seating, workstation, exercise equipment, mobility aids) and can be detached and replaced with different modules based on user needs. This segmentation enables versatility without requiring a completely different device for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standing frame has fixed components, then it is simple to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate users of varying sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The standing frame incorporates adjustable components including telescopic support legs with locking mechanisms, adjustable seat height, and movable armrests. These dynamic elements allow the frame to be configured to match different user sizes and preferences while maintaining structural integrity through locking mechanisms that secure components in place during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The standing frame allows adjustment of key parameters such as height, angle, and position of various components. The support legs can be extended or retracted to different lengths, the seat can be positioned at different heights and angles, and armrests can be adjusted to accommodate users of varying sizes. These parameter changes enable the same frame to adapt to different users without requiring multiple fixed-size frames.
3Ease of operation
If components are rigidly fixed, then structural stability is maintained, but shear occurs when user size does not match frame dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The standing frame uses adjustable and movable components rather than rigid fixed connections. The telescopic support legs can be adjusted to match user height, the seat can be positioned to align with user anatomy, and armrests can be moved to appropriate positions. This dynamic adjustability ensures proper alignment between the frame components and the user's body, preventing shear forces that would occur with rigid fixed components on mismatched users.
Solution Approach 2:
The standing frame allows pre-adjustment of components to match user dimensions before use. By adjusting the support leg length, seat height, and armrest position in advance to fit the specific user, the frame prevents misalignment and potential shear forces that would occur during use. This preliminary adjustment ensures proper alignment and comfort before the user begins using the device.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular standing frame is described herein. The modular standing frame has a chair module adapted to raise and lower a user between sitting and standing postures without inducing shear between the user and the seat and seat back of the chair module. The chair module may be selectively coupled to one of a glider module adapted to provide walking-type exercise to a standing user, a workstation module that provides a work surface for a sitting or standing user, and a mobility module that allows the standing frame to be moved about by a user much like a wheel chair.