Two-Part Cane System with Floor Mounting Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional canes lack stability when stationary, and walkers are cumbersome in confined spaces, failing to provide adequate support for individuals with balance concerns, especially in situations like rising from a seated position or in limited spaces like bathrooms.
Innovation Solution
A two-part cane system comprising a conventional cane with an attachment end that secures to a floor mounting plate, featuring a spring-loaded T-handle for height adjustment and a foot-operated lever for easy attachment and release, allowing the cane to function as a rigid upright stand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional cane is used, then ease of maneuverability is maintained, but stability when stationary is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cane system transitions from a static, fixed-function device to a dynamic, multi-state device. The mounting plate allows the cane to switch between a free-standing walking aid mode and a secured stationary support mode, adapting its stability characteristics based on the user's immediate needs while preserving maneuverability when unsecured.
Solution Approach 2:
The cane system serves multiple functions: it operates as a conventional portable walking cane for mobility and maneuverability, and simultaneously functions as a secured stationary support when mounted to the floor plate. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing the same device to provide both ease of operation and stationary stability as needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a walker is used, then stability when stationary is improved, but ease of maneuverability deteriorates in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the stability function from the mobility function. The floor mounting plate provides the stationary stability of a walker when needed, while the cane itself remains a lightweight, maneuverable device. The user can secure the cane to the plate for stability or remove it for ease of movement, eliminating the need to constantly maneuver a full walker in confined spaces.
3Ease of operation
If a cane is used, then ease of maneuverability is maintained, but support for standing from seated position is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its support capability based on the user's activity. When the cane is mounted to the floor plate, it provides enhanced anchorage and support force for activities requiring significant force such as standing from a seated position. When unmounted, it maintains its lightweight, maneuverable characteristics for walking and navigation.
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
Provides stable support for standing and sitting transitions while maintaining the ease of use and maneuverability of a cane, addressing the limitations of both canes and walkers in various environments, including homes and public spaces.
Implementation Method 1
A spring-loaded T-handle is used for height adjustment of the cane, allowing ease of adjustment to accommodate a standing or sitting position
Implementation Method 2
The attachment mechanism is further used to release the cane from the plate, preferably by a foot operated lever
Data Source
AI summary
A cane system having an attachment end that is constructed and arranged to temporarily secure to a floor mounting plate. The floor mounting plate includes an attachment mechanism that allows the cane to be attached in an upright secure position, wherein the user can rely upon the cane to help stand up from a seated position. The attachment mechanism is further used to release the cane from the floor mounting plate, preferably by a foot operated lever. A spring-loaded T-handle is used for height adjustment of the cane, allowing ease of adjustment to accommodate a standing or sitting position.