Powered Pedestrian Apparatus With Articulating Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers, are inadequate for individuals with limited or no ambulatory abilities, as they fail to provide a solution for transporting materials over long distances and navigating tight spaces, and lack the versatility to accommodate both seated and standing positions, especially in office and warehouse environments.
Innovation Solution
A battery-powered, modular apparatus with independent suspension and large diameter wheels, articulating front wheels, and power-assisted lifting arms, allowing for smooth ride, adjustable footprint, and a working surface, enabling users to transition between seated and standing positions while carrying materials, with safety features like restraint bars and a low center of gravity for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wheelchairs and walkers are used for mobility, then individuals with limited ambulatory abilities can move, but they cannot travel long distances or navigate tight spaces efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The powered apparatus combines multiple functions into a single device: it serves as both a mobility aid for individuals with limited ambulatory abilities and a material transport vehicle for carrying items over long distances. The apparatus includes a platform for seating, a working surface for placing materials, and propulsion capabilities for both self-propulsion and material transport, eliminating the need for separate wheelchairs, walkers, and material handling equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus features adjustable components including extendable footrests, adjustable seating positions, and variable propulsion power levels. The footrests can be extended to increase the footprint for stability when carrying heavy materials or retracted for tighter turning半径. The propulsion system allows variable speed control to navigate both tight indoor spaces and travel long distances efficiently.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wheelchairs and walkers are used, then individuals can move, but they lack the capability to carry materials independently
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus merges the functions of a mobility device and a material transport vehicle into a single integrated platform. The working surface is structurally integrated with the seating platform, and the propulsion system serves both the user and any carried materials simultaneously, reducing the need for separate carrying devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard wheelchairs are used, then individuals can be transported, but they cannot transition between seated and standing positions
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus incorporates adjustable seating positions and extendable footrests that allow users to transition between seated and standing positions. The footrests can be extended to provide support for standing, and the seating mechanism allows vertical adjustment to accommodate different user heights and positions.
4Productivity
If bicycles or pullman tugs are used in warehouses, then materials can be transported, but they have limited maneuverability once items are carried
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus features extendable footrests that increase the footprint and stability when carrying heavy materials, while maintaining a compact base design for tight turning半径. The propulsion system provides variable power levels to handle both heavy loads and tight maneuvering requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A powered pedestrian apparatus is provided having two vertical panels, two rotatably connected articulating arms capable of rotating about a center point, a vertical lifting device located within said panels attached to said arms, and a foot platform wherein one or more of an electric motor, front tires and caster wheels enable movement of the powered pedestrian apparatus.