Shoe tying support assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing shoe-tying support devices do not effectively elevate the user's foot to a comfortable position, especially for individuals with mobility issues or injuries, as they lack adjustable height and angle options for optimal comfort and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A shoe tying support device comprising a scissor lift and tilting unit that can be remotely controlled, allowing the platform to be elevated and tilted to various angles, facilitating comfortable foot positioning with minimal bending, and accommodating different user needs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed platform is used for foot positioning, then the device structure is simple, but the user cannot achieve optimal height and angle for comfort and accessibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefoot positioning comfortVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The platform is transformed from a fixed structure to a dynamic, adjustable structure through the integration of a scissor lift mechanism and tilting unit. The scissor lift enables vertical height adjustment, while the tilting unit allows angular adjustment, both controlled by motors to adapt to different user needs and activities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the positional parameters of the platform by varying height (via scissor lift extension/compression) and angle (via tilting unit rotation). These parameter adjustments are controlled through motorized mechanisms that can position the platform at optimal coordinates for different users and tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the platform height is fixed, then the manufacturing cost is lower, but users with mobility issues or injuries cannot position their feet at optimal heights

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of different user needsVSAvoidadjustable height mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The platform serves multiple functions through its adjustable capabilities: it can be positioned at different heights for various user statures, tilted at different angles for comfort, and used for multiple activities (shoe tying, foot care, etc.). This multi-functionality makes the device adaptable to diverse user needs and situations

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

Solution Approach 2:

The platform transitions from a static, one-size-fits-all design to a dynamic system that can adapt its height and angle to accommodate different user requirements, making it versatile for various activities and user populations including those with mobility limitations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the platform angle is fixed horizontally, then the device is simpler to manufacture, but user comfort for foot positioning is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefoot positioning comfortVSAvoidtilting mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The platform incorporates a tilting unit with rotational capability that allows the platform surface to be angled dynamically. This tilting mechanism, driven by a motor, enables the platform to transition from a fixed horizontal position to various angled positions, enhancing user comfort during foot positioning activities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11247883B2Shoe tying support assembly
Publication Date: 2022.02.15 HILL JOSEPH
  • US11247883B2 patent drawing
  • US11247883B2 patent drawing
  • US11247883B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A shoe tying support assembly includes a frame that is positionable on a floor. A scissor lift is movably coupled to the frame and the scissor lift is actuatable between a lifted position and a lowered position. A platform is positioned on the scissor lift and the platform is spaced upwardly from the frame when the scissor lift is actuated into the lifted position. Thus, a user can position their foot on the platform for assisting with tying shoes. A tilting unit is coupled between the scissor lift and the platform and the tilting unit tilts the platform at a selectable angle of deflection from a horizontal plane to enhance comfort for the user to position the user's foot on the platform. A remote control is provided to remotely control the scissor lift and the tilting unit.