Multi-Pedal Caster Layout for Clear Orientation and Braking Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-pedal-controlled medical casters face issues with pedals being too close, leading to mixed or incorrect treading, which complicates the selection and release of orientation and braking functions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-pedal-controlled caster design featuring a multifunctional pedal for selecting different functions and reset pedals for returning to a universal travel state, eliminating the need for mixed treading of reset pedals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pedals with different functions are arranged close to each other, then the device can achieve multiple functions (steering, orientation, braking), but the pedals are easily confused and difficult to operate correctly
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal control system is segmented into distinct functional groups: steering pedals (first and second pedals) are separated from braking pedals (third and fourth pedals). This spatial segmentation allows users to clearly distinguish between steering and braking functions, eliminating confusion while maintaining multi-functionality. Each pedal group is positioned in a specific region of the pedal assembly, creating intuitive operational zones.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the pedal assembly are assigned different functional qualities. The first and second pedals are designated for steering control, while the third and fourth pedals are designated for braking control. This local functional differentiation allows each pedal to have a clear, specific purpose, improving ease of operation while maintaining the overall multi-functional capability of the caster.
2Device complexity
If reset pedals are positioned close to the functional pedals, then the device structure is compact, but the reset pedals may be accidentally treaded or confused with functional pedals
Solution Approach 1:
The reset pedals (fifth and sixth pedals) are extracted from the main functional pedal group and positioned in a separate, distinct location within the pedal assembly. This spatial extraction ensures that reset pedals are visually and physically distinguishable from the steering and braking pedals, preventing accidental activation while maintaining a compact overall structure. The reset pedals form a separate control zone that is easily identifiable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pedals are used for different functions, then the caster can perform steering, orientation and braking functions, but the pedal control mechanism becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal assembly is designed as a universal control system where each pedal corresponds to a specific function (steering left, steering right, braking left, braking right, reset orientation, reset braking). This universal design allows a single integrated pedal assembly to handle all control functions without requiring separate control mechanisms, simplifying the overall system while maintaining full functionality. The connecting rod mechanism provides a unified mechanical linkage system that translates pedal inputs into corresponding caster actions.
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 caster effectively achieves steering, orientation, and braking functions by using a multifunctional pedal for selection and reset pedals for release, ensuring easy identification and use while preventing mixed treading errors.
Implementation Method 1
three elastic members
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-pedal-controlled caster and a method for using the caster are provided. The multi-pedal-controlled caster includes a main body support, a connecting rod, an orientation mechanism, a braking mechanism, a reset mechanism, a first inner tooth member, a second inner tooth member, a pair of wheel members and three elastic members, where the main body support is relatively rotatable and is combined with the connecting rod, and the first inner tooth member and the second inner tooth member are fixedly mounted on the connecting rod. A multifunctional pedal is treaded to push a first warping plate to make the first warping plate clamped into a first recess portion of the first inner tooth member, so that the caster can run in an orientated manner; and the multifunctional pedal is treaded again to push an auxiliary braking member.