Standing Frame with Nesting Handlebar and Adjustable Foot Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standing frames for users with standing challenges are often complex, expensive, bulky, and lack essential features such as adjustable foot spaces, arm rests, desks, USB ports, and cup holders, making them uncomfortable, unmaneuverable, and not suitable for wheelchair users.
Innovation Solution
A standing frame with a base assembly for foot support, a handlebar assembly with a combination table and adjustable height, a securement belt, and a knee support assembly, along with power outlets and USB ports, designed to be adjustable and customizable for user comfort and accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional standing frames include hydraulics and multiple moving parts, then they can provide height adjustment, but they become complex and prone to breakdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The standing frame is divided into separate functional modules: a base assembly with foot supports, a stand assembly with vertical support, a handlebar assembly with table, a securement assembly with belts, and a knee support assembly. Each module can be independently adjusted or replaced, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame incorporates adjustable components such as telescoping handlebar supports for height adjustment, movable foot stop brackets for foot positioning, and adjustable belts for securement. These dynamic elements provide adaptability without requiring complex hydraulic systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standing frames are designed with multiple features and adjustments, then they can accommodate different user needs, but they become expensive and not considered medical necessities
Solution Approach 1:
The handlebar assembly serves multiple functions: it provides hand support, arm rest support, and incorporates a table surface for placing devices. The base assembly provides both foot support and securement points for belts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, lowering cost while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the table and handlebar into a single integrated assembly, merging support functions with workspace functionality. The securement belts are integrated with the stand assembly rather than being separate components. This consolidation reduces part count and manufacturing cost while providing comprehensive user support.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standing frames are made larger to accommodate more features, then they provide more functionality, but they become bulky and unmaneuverable for wheelchair users
Solution Approach 1:
The foot stop brackets are designed to slide along the base assembly and nest when not in use. The table can be positioned to nest against the handlebar assembly. The knee support assembly can be positioned to nest within the overall frame structure. This nesting capability reduces the effective volume when the frame is being moved or stored while maintaining full functionality during use.
4Ease of manufacture
If standing frames include fixed foot spaces, then they are simple to manufacture, but they cannot be customized for different foot sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The foot stop brackets are designed to be movable along the base assembly rather than fixed. They can be positioned at different locations to accommodate various foot sizes and can be secured in place using simple fastening mechanisms. This dynamic positioning provides customization while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A standing frame to assist a user with stand challenges in standing, comprising a base assembly that accommodates the user's feet; a stand assembly supported by the base assembly; a handlebar assembly supported by the stand assembly and configured to receive one or more of a user's hands and arms to rest thereon; a securement assembly coupled to the stand assembly to secure the user to the standing frame; and a knee support assembly configured to receive the user's knees to rest thereon.