Rolling work platform assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work platform assemblies do not effectively allow for rolling while in a kneeling position, lacking adequate knee cushioning and mobility solutions.

Innovation Solution

A work platform assembly comprising a first plate with selectively engageable knee pads and a seating unit, equipped with roller bearings and wheels for enhanced mobility, along with additional features like a cupholder, side plate, and lights for versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If existing work platform assemblies are used, then basic platform functionality is provided, but rolling mobility while in kneeling position is not enabled

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverolling mobilityVSAvoidplatform structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The work platform assembly is divided into separable components: a first plate for kneeling, a second plate for seating, knee pads with roller bearings, and a seating unit. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling overall mobility when assembled together.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first plate serves multiple functions: it provides a kneeling surface, supports the knee pads with roller bearings for mobility, and connects to the second plate and seating unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall structure.

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

2Ease of operation

If roller bearings are added to knee pads, then rolling mobility is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverolling mobilityVSAvoidknee pad structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The roller bearings are integrated directly into the knee pad structure, merging the mobility function with the cushioning component. This eliminates the need for separate mobility mechanisms and reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 users to comfortably and efficiently roll to various work areas while maintaining the ability to use the knee pads independently, providing improved mobility and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The roller bearings are engaged to the knee pads and are configured to facilitate rolling of the knee pads across the first plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRoller bearing: Roller

Implementation Method 2

A set of first wheels is engaged to a lower face of the first plate and is configured to facilitate locomotion of the first plate and the user positioned thereupon

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWheel: Wheel

Data Source

PatentUS11071390B1Rolling work platform assembly
Publication Date: 2021.07.27 PREWITT GARY
  • US11071390B1 patent drawing
  • US11071390B1 patent drawing
  • US11071390B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A rolling work platform assembly that allows rolling while in a kneeling position includes a first plate. A pair of knee pads and a seating unit are selectively engageable to the first plate. The knee pads cushion the knees of a user kneeling upon, or separated from, the first plate. The seating unit engages and pads buttocks of the user kneeling upon the first plate. A set of first wheels engaged to a lower face of the first plate facilitates locomotion of the first plate and the user positioned thereupon.