Removable Electric Propulsion System With Automatic Directional Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for moving heavy rolling loads, such as hospital beds, are either expensive to implement or cumbersome, as they require modifications to the beds and can be inefficient in confined spaces due to their size and weight, and existing propulsion systems are not universally adaptable or ergonomic.
Innovation Solution
A removable electric propulsion system with a chassis featuring at least one motorized wheel and one or more steerable off-center wheels, equipped with coupling means for gripping and lifting wheels, and automatic directional blocking mechanisms to enhance maneuverability in tight spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a removable propulsion system is provided, then cost and weight are reduced, but adaptability to different rolling objects is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means is designed with a universal gripping mechanism that can accommodate different wheel sizes and shapes of various rolling objects (hospital beds, trolleys, wheelchairs). The gripping jaws with adjustable positioning and the lifting mechanism work together to provide a universal interface that adapts to multiple rolling object types without requiring system modification.
2Stability of the object's composition
If all wheels remain in contact with the ground, then stability is maintained, but maneuverability in confined spaces is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts wheel contact status based on operational needs. The lifting mechanism can elevate wheels off the ground during maneuvers requiring high maneuverability (such as turning in confined spaces), while maintaining ground contact during stable transport phases. This dynamic transition between contact and non-contact states optimizes both stability and maneuverability.
3Ease of operation
If wheel lifting mechanism is added, then maneuverability is improved, but device complexity and lateral dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling means integrates multiple functions into a single unified mechanism: gripping jaws for wheel grasping, lifting arms for elevating wheels, and directional locking components all merged into one compact assembly. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate mechanisms for each function, while maintaining the ability to perform wheel lifting for improved maneuverability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a removable electric propulsion system (1) for a rolling object. The propulsion system (1) comprises a frame (2) with a drive wheel (3) and at least one non-driven wheel (4). Of these non-driven wheels (4), at least one is a steerable off-centre wheel. The system (1) also comprises means for coupling at least one wheel of the rolling object. The system (1) also comprises an automatic directional blocking means for blocking the rotation of at least one of the steerable off-centre wheels about a vertical axis in a predetermined direction. The invention also relates to a coupling comprising a propulsion system (1) and a rolling object. The invention further relates to a method for directionally and automatically blocking at least one steerable off-centre wheel of a propulsion system.