Retractable Multi-Shape Scale for Standing, Sitting, and Lying Weighing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing weight measurement devices in hospitals, such as bed scales, seat scales, and floor scales, are bulky and require significant space, limiting their placement and necessitating multiple purchases for different positions, and are cumbersome to transform.

Innovation Solution

A retractable multi-shaped scale with retractable platforms and adjustable height, allowing conversion between standing, sitting, and lying positions, featuring a telescopic rod for height adjustment and a support system for stability, with an operation panel for easy shape change and weight measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate weight measurement devices (bed scales, seat scales, floor scales) are used for different positions, then measurement versatility is improved, but space requirements and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement versatilityVSAvoidspace requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The scale integrates multiple measurement functions (standing, sitting, lying positions) into a single device. The platform can transform between different configurations through telescopic mechanisms and adjustable components, allowing one device to replace multiple separate scales, thereby reducing space requirements while maintaining measurement versatility

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

Solution Approach 2:

The scale employs nested telescopic platforms where the sitting platform can be retracted into the standing platform structure, and the lying platform can be folded or retracted. This nesting mechanism allows the device to compact its size for storage while expanding to full measurement configurations when needed, effectively reducing the occupied space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate weight measurement devices are used for different positions, then measurement versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The scale uses a unified measurement system with a single weight sensor and control unit that serves all measurement positions (standing, sitting, lying). This centralized approach reduces device complexity compared to having separate measurement systems for each position, while still providing comprehensive measurement capabilities

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

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines the measurement functions, control systems, and data processing units into an integrated system. The single weight sensor and unified control interface replace what would otherwise be multiple separate device systems, reducing overall complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If traditional weight scales are used, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation and mobility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The scale automatically detects the measurement position (standing, sitting, or lying) and adjusts its configuration accordingly without requiring manual intervention. The telescopic platforms and adjustable components are driven by automated mechanisms that respond to user selection or sensor input, making the device self-adjusting and easier to operate while maintaining measurement accuracy through the unified weight sensor system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 convenient and space-efficient weight measurement in various positions without the need for multiple devices, reducing space requirements and simplifying storage and mobility.

Implementation Method 1

the base includes at least one weight sensor, for obtaining the measurement results

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWeight sensing: Force

Implementation Method 2

for driving the support part from standing height (horizontal to vertical), so as to change the distance between the base and the retractable part

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

a first retractable platform, the first retractable platform can accommodate the fixed platform, and can slide along one of the non-rail sides through the first rail

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS20250347549A1Retractable multi-shaped scale
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 EASTON PRECISION IND CORP
  • US20250347549A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347549A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347549A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A retractable multi-shaped scale comprises a retractable part consisting of a fixed platform, a first retractable platform, a second retractable platform, a support part for supporting and transmitting weight. The support part includes multiple support frames, with one end pivotally attached to the lower edge of the fixed platform and the other end pivotally attached to a base located at the bottom of the scale. The base contains at least one weight sensor to obtain measurement results. a telescopic rod, with one end pivotally attached to the base and the other end pivotally attached to the support part, is used to drive the support frames from a horizontal to a vertical position, further adjusting the distance between the base and the retractable part. An operation panel is connected to the weight sensor to display the measurement results obtained by the weight sensor.