Motorized Wheel Articulated Linkage for Stroller Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobility assistance devices for strollers and trolleys with multiple wheels are not easily adaptable to various mechanical and geometric configurations, and they often hinder maneuverability, especially in turns, and are not suitable for retro-fit installation on standard strollers without motorization.
Innovation Solution
A mobility assistance device with a motorized wheel mounted via an articulated connection on a support plate, featuring a rotating electrical connection for 360° angular range, telescopically adjustable arms, and a ball joint for easy attachment to different stroller uprights, allowing for universal adaptation and improved grip and adherence to the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a motorized wheel assistance device is installed on a stroller, then propulsion assistance is provided, but the device hinders turns and maneuverability
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized wheel assembly is mounted on an articulated linkage that allows dynamic repositioning of the motorized wheel relative to the stroller frame. This enables the assistance device to adapt its position during different maneuvers, providing propulsion assistance during straight movement while minimizing interference during turns.
Solution Approach 2:
An articulated linkage mechanism serves as an intermediary between the stroller frame and the motorized wheel. This mediator allows the motorized wheel to move independently relative to the frame, enabling it to provide power assistance while accommodating the steering movements without directly hindering maneuverability.
2Power
If a motorized wheel assistance device is designed for straight-line movement, then propulsion is provided, but the device is not well-suited for turns and various stroller designs
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized wheel assembly is designed with universal mounting capabilities through the articulated linkage system, allowing it to function effectively across different stroller configurations and maneuver types. The system can provide both straight-line propulsion and turn assistance by adapting its position and orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated linkage enables the motorized wheel to dynamically adjust its position and orientation based on the stroller's movement state, making the device adaptable to various stroller designs and effective in both straight-line propulsion and turning maneuvers.
3Power
If electric assistance is integrated into the basic design of the stroller, then propulsion assistance is provided, but the cost of the stroller increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric assistance system is segmented into a separate, modular motorized wheel assembly that can be attached to a standard stroller frame. This segmentation allows the propulsion assistance to be provided as an add-on module rather than requiring complete redesign of the stroller, thereby controlling manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated linkage serves as an intermediary connection that interfaces the motorized wheel assembly with the stroller frame, enabling retro-fit installation on standard strollers without requiring integration into the basic design, thus avoiding increased manufacturing costs.
4Ease of manufacture
If an assistance device is designed as a retro-fit solution, then cost is reduced, but the device may not adapt well to various mechanical configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized wheel assembly is designed with universal mounting capabilities through the articulated linkage system, allowing it to function effectively across different stroller configurations and maneuver types, making it suitable for retro-fit installation on various mechanical designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated linkage enables the motorized wheel to dynamically adapt its position and orientation to accommodate various mechanical configurations of different strollers, providing both cost-effective retro-fit capability and broad adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a mobility assistance device (10) intended to be coupled to a unit (5) to be propelled, such as a stroller or caddieTM or lightweight cart to be driven manually, the device comprising a motorized wheel (1) (or two thereof) that are mounted, by virtue of an articulated connection of the idler type, on a support plate (2), arms (3) connected to the support plate and, via means for fastening, to the upright of the unit to be propelled, the articulated connection having a clevis (6) mounted so as to rotate freely on the support plate along a vertical axis (V), and a rotary electrical connection (7) for supplying the motor of the wheel with electrical energy over an angular range of at least 360° with regard to the clevis about the vertical axis.