Portable Adjustable Frame for Wheelchair Table Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual wheelchairs often have arm positions that make it difficult for users to easily reach tables for eating, leading to accidents and reduced enjoyment of routine tasks.
Innovation Solution
A portable adjustable frame system with expandable and collapsible arms and supports that attach to wheelchairs, featuring a tray and basket for holding items, allowing adjustable fit and secure placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the arms of the manual wheelchair are positioned in a fixed position, then the structural stability is maintained, but the user cannot easily reach tables for eating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the arm portions adjustable rather than fixed. The arm portions can be repositioned along the mobility assistance equipment arms to different heights and angles, allowing the user to reach tables easily while maintaining structural stability through securement mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a tray is added to the frame system, then item accessibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing a frame system that serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables adjustability, and incorporates a tray for item placement. The tray is integrated into the frame system, allowing the same structure to both support the user and hold items within easy reach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the frame system is made expandable to accommodate various widths, then adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the segmentation principle by dividing the frame system into separate, adjustable components. The arm portions and support portions can be independently positioned and secured, allowing the frame to be customized to different widths and mobility equipment configurations without requiring complex integrated manufacturing.
4Weight of moving object
If the arm portions are made lightweight for portability, then the weight is reduced, but the load capacity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the composite materials principle by using materials that provide both light weight and sufficient strength. The arm portions and support portions are constructed from materials that maintain structural integrity and load-bearing capacity (up to 120 pounds) while keeping the overall frame system lightweight and portable.
Data Source
AI summary
Portable adjustable frame systems may be used in connection with mobility assistance equipment to improve accessibility for users. Various brackets may be employed to attach the portable adjustable frame system to mobility assistance equipment depending on the type of mobility assistance equipment to which the portable adjustable frame system may be attached. The portable adjustable frame system may include adjustable legs that may help to removably secure the portable adjustable frame system to the mobility assistance equipment. The portable adjustable frame system may be utilized by sliding in relative to the mobility assistance equipment without the need for brackets. Trays and/or baskets may be attached to the portable adjustable frame system to provide additional accessibility for users.