Retractable Armrest Storage for Wheelchair Width and Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage solutions for wheelchair users increase the width of the wheelchair when attached, making it difficult to pass through doorways and hinder easy access to stored items, and carrying belongings is not feasible for most operators.
Innovation Solution
A retractable storage device with a vertically and horizontally extending arm assembly, secured to the armrest, that moves between a stowed and raised position using a motor, allowing the storage container to be easily accessible without adding width to the wheelchair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a storage container is placed on the side of the wheelchair by the armrest, then storage capacity is improved, but the overall width of the wheelchair increases making it difficult to pass through doorways
Solution Approach 1:
The storage device transitions from a horizontal side-mounted configuration to a vertical configuration that extends upward from the armrest. The arm assembly includes a vertical arm that rises above the armrest level, allowing the storage container to be positioned in the vertical dimension rather than increasing horizontal width. This dimensional shift enables storage capacity improvement while maintaining the wheelchair's original width for doorway passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage device incorporates a motorized arm assembly that can dynamically adjust the position of the storage container. The arm assembly moves between a retracted position (when not in use) and an extended position (when storage is needed), allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements. This dynamic capability enables the storage container to be accessed when needed while maintaining a compact profile during transit.
2Quantity of substance
If a backpack is used to store belongings on the back of the wheelchair, then storage capacity is improved, but ease of access to stored items deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The storage container is designed to serve multiple functions and can be positioned in various locations. It can be mounted on armrests, backrests, or other parts of the wheelchair, and can be accessed from different angles. The container may include features such as removable lids, multiple compartments, and adjustable positioning to accommodate different user needs and access requirements, making it universally applicable for various storage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage container is pre-positioned in easily accessible locations such as near the user's hand reach area or at eye level when seated. The motorized arm assembly can automatically position the container within the user's reach before the user needs to access it. Frequently accessed items can be pre-organized in specific compartments or positioned in the most accessible portions of the container, reducing the effort required to retrieve items.
3Ease of operation
If the operator holds their belongings, then accessibility is improved, but feasibility deteriorates for most wheelchair operators
Solution Approach 1:
The storage system is designed to serve itself through automated mechanisms. The motorized arm assembly automatically positions and retrieves the storage container when triggered, eliminating the need for the user to manually handle heavy or awkward items. Sensors or control systems can detect when an item needs to be accessed and autonomously maneuver the container into position, allowing the system to serve the user's needs without requiring physical effort from the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical system of holding and carrying belongings is replaced with an automated motorized system. Electric motors drive the arm assembly to position and retrieve the storage container, substituting human physical effort with mechanical automation. This replacement makes the system feasible for wheelchair operators who cannot easily hold or carry items, as the automated mechanism performs the work that would otherwise require human strength and dexterity.
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
Enables secure and accessible storage without increasing the wheelchair's width, allowing users to easily access their belongings while maintaining the wheelchair's original dimensions and ease of mobility.
Implementation Method 1
The second distal end of the vertically extending arm assembly is pivotally secured to the middle connector, and the first distal end of the horizontally extending arm assembly is pivotally secured to the middle connector.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable storage device for an armrest of a chair, including a vertically extending arm assembly including a first distal end and a second distal end, a horizontally extending arm assembly including a first distal end and a second distal end, a middle connector, and a storage container. The second distal end of the vertically extending arm assembly is pivotally secured to the middle connector, and the first distal end of the horizontally extending arm assembly is pivotally secured to the middle connector. The retractable storage device is moveable between a stowed position and a raised position. The storage container is coupled to the second distal end of the horizontally extending arm assembly, where the storage container is stowed beneath the armrest when the retractable storage device is moved to the stowed position.