Omnidirectional Mobility Apparatus with Segmented Drive Units
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheelchairs lack omnidirectional mobility, are difficult to maneuver, and offer limited control options, leading to inefficiencies and potential injuries due to static height and limited directionality, which hinders effective and comfortable transportation for individuals with disabilities.
Innovation Solution
An omnidirectional mobility apparatus with a base having wheels positioned in a manner that allows for parallel and perpendicular alignment, enabling movement in any direction, combined with a remote control system using accelerometers and wireless communication for hands-free operation, allowing users to control the device's direction and height adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional wheelchairs use traditional drive wheel configuration with idler/caster wheels, then the structure is stable, but the turning radius is wide and maneuverability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The wheelchair is divided into four independent drive units, each with its own drive wheel, eliminating the need for idler or caster wheels. Each drive unit can be independently controlled to enable omnidirectional movement, including lateral motion and rotation, significantly improving maneuverability while reducing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces movement in multiple dimensions by allowing each of the four drive wheels to rotate independently about vertical axes. This enables the wheelchair to move not only forward and backward but also laterally and to rotate in place, achieving omnidirectional mobility that transcends traditional single-plane movement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wheelchairs have fixed height, then the structure is simple, but comfort and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The wheelchair incorporates adjustable height mechanisms that allow the seat and backrest to be dynamically repositioned according to user needs. This dynamic adjustment capability enhances comfort and adaptability for different users and situations, while the patent describes these as relatively simple mechanisms that do not significantly increase overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If conventional wheelchairs require manual propulsion, then no additional power system is needed, but users experience fatigue and limited control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes a power system where each of the four drive wheels has an independent drive mechanism that can be controlled individually. This self-service capability allows precise control over each wheel's rotation, enabling sophisticated movement patterns like lateral motion and rotation in place, while the system only consumes power when movement is actually required rather than continuous operation.
4Productivity
If conventional wheelchairs have limited directionality, then the control system is simple, but movement efficiency is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into four independent control channels, one for each drive wheel. This segmentation allows each wheel to be controlled independently, enabling the wheelchair to achieve any desired movement direction and pattern, significantly improving movement efficiency compared to traditional single-plane control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to be universal, capable of controlling the wheelchair to move in any direction including forward, backward, lateral motion, and rotation. This multi-functional control capability allows the single wheelchair to perform all types of movements that would otherwise require multiple specialized mechanisms.
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 solution provides enhanced accessibility and freedom of motion, reducing the strain of use and enabling multitasking, while expanding movement options for individuals with mobility limitations and improving interaction with the environment.
Implementation Method 1
The system includes a remote controller that is remote to the mobility apparatus. An accelerometer is communicatively coupled to the remote controller
Implementation Method 2
a signal transmitter/receiver that is in communication with the motile functions of the mobility apparatus, where the signal transmitter/receiver is also in wireless communication with the remote controller
Data Source
AI summary
An omnidirectional mobility apparatus. The current invention is an omnidirectional, remote-controlled mobility apparatus, similar to a wheelchair, which allows the transport of an individual or object(s). The device includes a cubic-shaped base with wheel wells on each vertical side of said base. Within each wheel well is a wheel set, such that the front and rear wheel sets face each other and the left and right wheel sets face each other. The circumference of each wheel set includes a plurality of transverse-facing, smaller wheels disposed incrementally within each wheel set along the circumference of each wheel set, such that a portion of the smaller wheels protrude outside the circumference of each wheel set. This allows the mobility apparatus to propel in any direction. Also included in the device are an adjustable, interchangeable footrest and chair assembly.