Motorized mount for seating system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quadriplegic individuals face challenges in accessing and using computing devices due to limited arm movement and the lack of convenient storage solutions on wheelchairs, which are often rigidly affixed and difficult to reposition, hindering mobility and independence.
Innovation Solution
A motorized mount assembly with a parallel four-bar linkage and linear actuators that allows for 360° rotation and vertical tilt of a computing device, enabling easy deployment and retraction, attachment to wheelchairs without tools, and operation with a single switch, while avoiding impediments during transfers and door passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a computing device is stored on a wheelchair mount, then accessibility for quadriplegic users is improved, but the mount may impede motion through narrow doorways or under tables
Solution Approach 1:
The mount employs a motorized articulating arm with multiple degrees of freedom that can dynamically adjust its position. The arm can extend to provide computing device accessibility and retract to clear obstacles in narrow doorways or under tables, transforming a static obstruction into a dynamic, adaptable structure that responds to spatial requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device mount integrates within the wheelchair structure through a nested configuration where the articulating arm and mounting assembly can be retracted into a compact form factor that does not protrude from the wheelchair, allowing the device to be stored without impeding mobility while remaining accessible when deployed.
2Reliability
If a rigid mount is affixed to the wheelchair, then the computing device is securely held, but the mount cannot be repositioned or removed easily
Solution Approach 1:
The mount transitions from a rigid, fixed structure to a motorized, articulated system that can be dynamically repositioned to different angles and positions. The parallel four-bar linkage and articulating arm mechanisms allow the mount to achieve various configurations while maintaining secure device holding, and can be easily reset or removed by reversing the motorized actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical repositioning operations with an automated motorized system. Motors control the articulating arm and parallel four-bar linkage, allowing electronic repositioning and removal without requiring manual disassembly or physical manipulation, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining secure device attachment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a tray or platform is swung away manually, then space is cleared for transfers, but this is difficult for users with limited hand or arm strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual swinging or moving operations with an automated motorized system. Motors actuate the articulating arm and parallel four-bar linkage to automatically swing the mounting assembly away from the wheelchair body, clearing space for transfers without requiring the user to exert hand or arm strength. The system can be controlled through adaptive interfaces suitable for users with limited physical capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The motorized mount system performs the function of clearing space for transfers autonomously without requiring manual intervention from the user. The motors automatically actuate the articulating mechanisms to position the mounting assembly in a retracted or swung-away position, enabling the system to serve itself and the user without external assistance.
4Ease of operation
If the mount is positioned under tables or through doorways, then accessibility is maintained, but the rigid structure causes impedance to motion
Solution Approach 1:
The mount transforms from a rigid, fixed structure into a dynamic, motorized articulating system that can adapt its position and configuration. The parallel four-bar linkage and articulating arm mechanisms allow the mount to flex and reposition itself to navigate through narrow doorways and under tables without causing impedance, while maintaining computing device accessibility when positioned in suitable locations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure illustrates a motorized mount with a plurality of degrees of freedom coupled to a seating system. The motorized mount assembly can include an attachment assembly configured to attach to a seating assembly. A vertical control assembly can be connected to the attachment assembly with an arm having a first end attached to vertical control assembly by a first hinge. A mounting assembly can be attached to a second end of the arm. The mounting assembly can configured to receive a personal computing device. A linear actuator may be attached to the vertical control assembly to raise and lower the arm and mounting assembly. A first motor can be configured to attach to the arm. A second motor can be configured to attach between the arm and the mounting assembly.