Rollator Brake Handle Structure for Stable Dual-Mode Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rollators with manual braking structures are complex, require multiple parts, and are difficult for users with limited mobility to operate effectively, leading to inefficient and unstable braking experiences.
Innovation Solution
A brake structure for rollators featuring a simple assembly with fewer parts, utilizing a first and second positioning pin mechanism to enable bidirectional braking through a handlebar-mounted brake handle, allowing the brake component to rotate around a second positioning pin for both parking and cadence braking, enhanced by a sliding hole and limit groove for stability and a connection shaft for intuitive control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional braking structures are added on the casters to achieve parking braking and cadence braking, then the braking function is improved, but the assembly becomes more complex and requires more parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the parking brake and cadence brake functions into a single integrated brake component mounted on the caster, eliminating the need for separate braking structures. The brake component includes a brake shoe, brake spring, and adjustment mechanism that work together to provide both parking braking (through the brake spring) and cadence braking (through the brake cable), thereby simplifying the overall assembly while maintaining comprehensive braking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake component is designed as a multi-functional unit that performs both parking braking and cadence braking operations. The single brake component can be actuated in different ways (manual release for parking brake, cable tension for cadence brake) to achieve different braking modes, making it a universal solution that replaces multiple specialized components.
2Reliability
If manual stepping structures are added to achieve parking braking, then the braking capability is improved, but the operation becomes difficult for people with limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a brake cable as an intermediary mechanism that transmits force from a remote actuation point (handbrake or release mechanism) to the brake component on the caster. This allows users with limited mobility to operate the parking brake from a convenient location without needing to physically step on or manually adjust the brake component itself, thereby maintaining braking capability while significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking system is segmented into distinct functional components: the brake component mounted on the caster (containing brake shoe and spring), the brake cable for force transmission, and the release mechanism. This segmentation allows the heavy-duty braking function to be isolated on the caster while the user interface (release mechanism) can be positioned for easy access, separating the operational difficulty from the braking capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple braking components are integrated to achieve both parking braking and cadence braking, then the braking versatility is improved, but the number of parts increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the parking brake mechanism (brake spring, brake shoe) and the cadence brake mechanism (brake cable attachment point) into a single integrated brake component on the caster. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts compared to having separate braking assemblies, while still providing both parking braking and cadence braking capabilities through the unified component design.
4Ease of manufacture
If a simple brake structure is used to reduce assembly complexity, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the braking sensitivity and reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The brake component incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the brake shoe's position and the brake spring's tension to be adjusted based on wear and operational requirements. This dynamic adjustability maintains optimal braking sensitivity throughout the component's service life, preventing degradation of performance despite the simplified overall structure. The adjustment mechanism is integrated into the brake component itself, requiring no additional complex systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A braking structure of a rollator and a rollator are provided, the barking structure includes an internally hollow handlebar, the handlebar is provided with an insertion port, the insertion port is movably provided with a brake handle connected to a brake cable, and further includes a first positioning pin penetrating on the handlebar and connected to one end of the brake handle located within the insertion port; a brake component, a middle of the brake component is connected to one end of the brake handle near the insertion port and connected to the brake cable; a second positioning pin penetrating on the handlebar and connected to one end of the brake component away from the brake cable. The brake handlebar can drive the brake component to rotate around the second positioning pin.