Support aid
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support frames, such as toilet frames, are bulky in storage and transportation, posing a challenge for efficient shipping and storage, especially when only a single frame is required.
Innovation Solution
A support frame design featuring telescopic side frames and cross frames with a locking mechanism that allows adjustment between movable and locked positions, utilizing non-circular, tapered locking apertures and adjustable grips to enhance stability and compactness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the support frame is designed with fixed side frames and cross frame, then stability and security are improved, but storage and transportation bulkiness worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The support frame transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The side frames can be positioned at multiple angles relative to the cross frame through the locking mechanism, allowing the frame to adapt between a compact folded state for storage and an extended stable state for use. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by enabling the same structure to satisfy both compactness requirements and stability requirements at different operational phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame is divided into separable components: the cross frame and multiple side frames that can be independently positioned and locked. The locking mechanism with locking apertures and pins enables each side frame to be independently adjusted and secured at different positions. This segmentation allows the structure to be compacted by folding side frames parallel to the cross frame while maintaining stability when locked in the extended configuration.
2Volume of stationary object
If the support frame is designed to be collapsible for compact storage, then storage efficiency is improved, but structural stability during use worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism performs preliminary action by pre-positioning the side frames at predetermined angles relative to the cross frame. The locking apertures are positioned at specific locations that correspond to optimal structural configurations. When the pins engage these apertures, they pre-establish a stable geometric relationship between components before any load is applied, ensuring structural integrity while allowing compact storage when collapsed.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure utilizes parameter changes by varying the angular relationship between side frames and the cross frame. In the collapsed state, side frames are positioned parallel to the cross frame (0 degrees) for compact storage. In the operational state, side frames are locked at predetermined angles (e.g., perpendicular or acute angles) to optimize structural stability. The locking mechanism enables discrete parameter changes between these configurations.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A support aid for supporting a person. The support aid comprises first and second elongate members, the first and second elongate members being telescopically engageable together. The support aid further comprises a locking mechanism including a locking aperture in the first elongate member for locating a pin and a locking aperture in the second elongate member for locating a pin. The locking aperture in the first elongate member is configured to align with the locking aperture in the second elongate member when the first elongate member and the second elongate member are telescopically engaged. At least one of the locking apertures is tapered.