Rollator Commode Seat With Telescopic Splash Guard
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aging and mobility-impaired individuals face challenges using standard toilets due to loss of strength and balance, leading to slips and falls, and existing assistive devices do not adequately address the need for height adjustment and splash protection in public facilities.
Innovation Solution
A rollator with a concealed commode seat and retractable telescopic splash guard provides adjustable height and splash protection, allowing users to safely and hygienically use standard toilets, combining the functions of a walking aid and commode seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard toilet is used, then the toilet height is fixed at a low level, but this causes difficulty for aging and mobility-impaired individuals to sit and rise safely
Solution Approach 1:
The commode seat is concealed within the rollator frame structure, with the seat plate nested between the front and rear crossbars. The telescopic splash guard members are stored within the oval volume defined by the commode seat, allowing the commode function to be integrated into the walking aid without increasing external dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The commode seat plate is hinged to the rollator frame, allowing it to be dynamically positioned in a lowered commode position or raised to align with the padded seat for walking. The telescopic splash guard members can be extended or retracted based on usage needs, providing adaptive height adjustment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a commode seat is added to the rollator, then height adjustment is provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rollator is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a walking aid with the padded seat, and transforms into a commode by lowering the seat plate. The same frame structure supports both the padded seat for walking and the commode seat plate for toileting, eliminating the need for separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The commode seat assembly is segmented into discrete components: the seat plate hinged to the frame, telescopic splash guard members that can be independently extended or retracted, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and ease of cleaning.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a telescopic splash guard is added, then splash protection is provided, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The splash guard is constructed from thin, flexible telescopic members that can be easily formed and assembled. These members are designed to be friction-fitted together, eliminating the need for complex fastening mechanisms or precision welding, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
4Volume of moving object
If the commode seat is concealed within the rollator, then the device remains compact for mobility, but the splash guard design becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic splash guard members are stored within the oval volume defined by the commode seat when retracted, and extend outward when needed. This nesting arrangement allows the splash guard to be integrated into the compact commode structure without increasing the overall device volume during storage.
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 solution enables safe, independent, and hygienic toileting for aging and mobility-impaired individuals by providing additional height and splash protection, reducing the risk of accidents and the need for multiple assistive devices.
Implementation Method 1
adapted to form a substantially liquid-tight seal upon telescopic extension by friction-fitting said plurality of telescoping oval members together
Data Source
AI summary
A commode seat for a rollator, incorporating therein a collapsible telescopic splash guard.