Removable Vehicle Backrest Structure Using Lateral Handrail Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle backrest structures for wheelchair users are costly and time-consuming to attach and detach, and they do not effectively alleviate the impact on users during sudden vehicle movements, as they require specific components for fixation and often waste space when not in use.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle backrest structure featuring a lateral handrail with a recessed part for the backrest to engage with, eliminating the need for additional securing components, and incorporating a reinforcing pipe and storage for belts to simplify attachment, detachment, and cost reduction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a backrest is firmly fixed to the vehicle with fasteners such as screws, then the backrest provides stable support and alleviates impact on the wheelchair user, but the attachment and detachment process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of backrest supportVSAvoidtime for attachment and detachment
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest is designed as a separable component that can be independently attached and detached from the vehicle body. The support structure is divided into a fixed mounting portion on the vehicle and a removable backrest portion, allowing quick connection and disconnection without requiring complex fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A simplified coupling mechanism serves as an intermediary between the backrest and vehicle body, replacing complex screw fasteners with a straightforward engagement system that provides reliable support while enabling rapid attachment and detachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a specific component is added to secure the backrest to the vehicle, then the backrest can be firmly fixed to alleviate impact, but the structure cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimpact alleviation capabilityVSAvoidnumber of securing components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is merged with the existing vehicle structure, specifically utilizing the lateral handrail as part of the backrest support system. This integration eliminates the need for separate, dedicated securing components while maintaining the ability to provide impact alleviation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral handrail serves multiple functions: it acts as both a support structure for the backrest and a safety element for the wheelchair user. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby lowering overall structure complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If a backrest is firmly fixed to the vehicle, then it provides continuous support, but the space required for the backrest is wasted when not used by a wheelchair user

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous backrest supportVSAvoidspace occupied by backrest
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The backrest is designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing it to be easily attached when needed and detached when not in use. The support structure accommodates both the attached and detached states, providing continuous support capability while minimizing space occupation during periods when the backrest is not being used.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12145483B2Vehicle backrest structure
Publication Date: 2024.11.19 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US12145483B2 patent drawing
  • US12145483B2 patent drawing
  • US12145483B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle backrest structure includes a lateral handrail fixed within a vehicle cabin and extending horizontally, and a backrest having a cushion formed of a soft material and configured to receive a back portion of a wheelchair user in a wheelchair that is supported within the cabin of the vehicle. The backrest has a recessed part that is opened downward and is to be engaged with the lateral handrail. The backrest is configured to be removably supported on the lateral handrail.