Modular Wheeled Device with Three-Section Frame and Latch Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rehabilitation and transport devices for disabled persons lack versatility and ease of use, failing to efficiently facilitate frequent position changes and independent mobility, which are crucial for effective rehabilitation and patient autonomy.
Innovation Solution
A modular, multifunctional wheeled device with a three-sectional frame bearer and adjustable wheeled assembly, featuring latches for modular connection, adjustable height, and manual or electrical control, allowing configurations from a stretcher to a wheelchair or armchair, enabling easy position changes and transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-purpose device (wheelchair or bed) is used, then the device structure is simple, but the device lacks versatility and cannot fulfill multiple functions
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a multifunctional system that can operate as a wheelchair, examination couch, rehabilitation couch, or stretcher by reconfiguring the frame bearer sections. The three-sectional frame bearer with mobile connections and adjustable positions enables a single device to perform multiple medical and rehabilitation functions that previously required separate dedicated devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame bearer is divided into three mobile sections that can be independently positioned and arranged in different configurations. This segmentation allows the device to transform between various functional states (wheelchair position, examination position, rehabilitation position, stretcher position) while maintaining structural integrity through the connection elements.
2Ease of operation
If manual position adjustment is used, then the device structure is simple, but the position control precision and ease of operation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an electrical control system using electric motors and actuators. The control unit receives signals from the control element (remote control or bedside panel) and automatically adjusts the frame bearer sections to the desired positions, eliminating the need for manual cranking or mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The device provides self-adjustment capability through automated electrical actuators that respond to user commands. The control system automatically positions the frame bearer sections without requiring manual intervention, making the device easier to operate while maintaining simplicity through standardized control interfaces.
3Productivity
If fixed-position sections are used, then the device structure is stable, but the device cannot facilitate frequent position changes for rehabilitation
Solution Approach 1:
The frame bearer sections are designed with mobile connections that allow dynamic repositioning. The sections can be adjusted between fixed and mobile states, enabling frequent position changes for rehabilitation purposes while maintaining structural stability when positioned. The electrical actuators provide controlled movement to achieve desired configurations efficiently.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular connection elements are added, then the device can be assembled in sets, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates connection elements that integrate with the existing frame bearer structure. These elements allow multiple devices to be coupled together to form sets or extended configurations while using the same standardized interfaces, reducing the need for separate connection mechanisms and minimizing additional complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular multifunctional wheeled device for disabled persons, in particular taking a form of a wheeled stretcher, a mobile bed, a wheelchair, an examination couch, or a rehabilitation couch, with a three-sectional frame bearer and a wheeled assembly, characterized in that the three-sectional frame bearer 1 comprises a back rest section, footrest section and seat section, mobile relative to each other, and that may be arranged in one plane or in three different planes, the seat section being equipped with a wheeled assembly 2 of an adjustable height, the frame bearer 1 is equipped with at least one latch 14, 14', 14", at least on one side, connecting a neighboring modular, multifunctional wheeled device for disabled persons, and, on the opposite side, the frame is equipped, with at least one receiving means for receiving said latch 14, 14', 14" of a neighboring modular multifunctional wheeled device, the device being equipped with an assembly for manual or electrical, via a remote control, controlling the position of the sections of the frame bearer.