Emergency Locking Retractor Strap for Fall Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for people with reduced mobility conditions lack safety, comfort, and adaptability, often causing discomfort due to high pressure on the inguinal area and restricted movement, and are difficult to manipulate and transport.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with adaptable fixation means, a portable support body, and emergency locking retractors that facilitate free movement while preventing falls, featuring automatic locking retractors, elastic energy storage, and manual tensioning elements, along with a containing pad with anchoring elements for secure and comfortable fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate straps with quick opening and closing systems are used, then the device can be easily manipulated and adjusted, but the user safety is compromised as the systems do not always resist when the user falls or when straps are worn incorrectly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate straps into a single integrated strap that provides both thoracic and inguinal containment. This unified strap system eliminates the reliability issues of multiple independent quick-release systems while maintaining ease of operation through a single adjustable mechanism with centralized locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, robust strap design with basic locking mechanisms rather than complex electronic or multi-component systems. The strap is designed to be durable and reliable for repeated use, replacing the need for multiple separate adjustable straps while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If the thoracic containing strap and inguinal containing ring are concentrated in a very small area, then the device provides secure containment, but the user experiences significant discomfort due to high pressure on the inguinal area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent redistributes the containment function along the length of the single strap rather than concentrating it at one point. The strap extends from the thoracic area down to the inguinal area, distributing pressure across multiple contact points and reducing localized pressure intensity while maintaining overall containment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates different functional zones along the strap: a thoracic containment section, an intermediate section, and an inguinal containment section. Each section is positioned to provide appropriate support while distributing pressure away from sensitive areas, particularly reducing concentration of force on the inguinal region.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the strap used to fix the seat is located below the users' legs, then the device can be mounted on various chairs, but the user experiences restricted freedom of movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the seat fixation strap above the user's legs rather than below, allowing natural leg movement without restriction. The strap is configured to secure the chair back while leaving the leg area free, providing both chair adaptability and user mobility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a device with a notable number of separate components is used, then the device can be adjusted to fit different users, but the device becomes more bothersome to collect and transport and increases the risk of losing components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple strap functions into a single unified strap system with centralized adjustment and locking mechanisms. This eliminates multiple separate components that would need to be tracked and assembled, making the device compact for transport while maintaining adjustability for different users.
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
The device ensures user safety and comfort by preventing falls and allowing controlled movement while being easily adaptable to various chairs, facilitating correct mounting and transportation.
Implementation Method 1
The containing strap is connected to an emergency locking retractor, which is configured in order to facilitate the free movement of the person fastened to said chair or arm chair and to prevent fall movements of the same.
Implementation Method 2
elastic energy storage, and manual tensioning elements
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Fastening device for people with reduced mobility conditions, of the variety employed in chairs or arm chairs in domestic, geriatric, care or hospital environments, comprising fixation means (50), which can be adapted to the back of the chair or arm chair and containing means (100) to contain the person to be fastened. Said device (1) comprises a portable support body (10) in which said fixation means (50) and containing means (100) are located and the containing means (100) comprise at least one containing strap (101, 102, 103) connected to an emergency locking retractor (104, 105, 106) which is configured in order to facilitate the free movement of the person fastened to said chair or arm chair and to prevent falling movement of the same.