User-transfer bench systems for bathtubs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bathtub transfer bench systems do not assist users in lowering themselves into the bathtub or raising themselves out, lacking an easy means for safe entry and exit, and do not provide a relaxing soaking experience.
Innovation Solution
A user-transfer bench system with a clamping device that secures to the bathtub, featuring a bench with integral handgrips and a pivotable clamp, designed for safe mounting and dismounting, and includes a cushioned seat and material lining to protect the tub.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional bathtub transfer bench is used, then users can position themselves over the bathtub, but the system does not assist users in lowering themselves into or raising themselves out of the bathtub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a pivotable clamp mechanism that allows the bench to rotate and adapt to different bathtub shapes and sizes. The clamp can pivot to accommodate various tub configurations, providing both ease of installation and secure attachment. This dynamic adjustment capability ensures the bench can be safely mounted on different tubs while maintaining ease of operation for users with mobility challenges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a handgrip as an intermediary element between the user and the bathtub. The handgrip provides a secure hold for users during the mounting and dismounting process, assisting them in lowering themselves into and raising themselves out of the bathtub. This intermediary component directly addresses the safety concern by providing additional support during critical transfer movements.
2Reliability
If a clamping device is mechanically fastened to the bathtub, then the bench is securely attached, but the mechanical fastening may cause scrapes and scratches on the bathtub surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective lining as an intermediary layer between the clamping device and the bathtub surface. This lining, made of non-marring material, prevents direct contact between the metal clamp and the bathtub, thereby eliminating scrapes and scratches while maintaining secure attachment. The protective layer acts as a buffer that preserves the bathtub surface integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction for the clamping device, combining metal components for structural strength with soft protective lining materials for surface protection. This composite approach allows the clamp to maintain its gripping force and security of attachment while the soft lining prevents damage to the bathtub surface, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and surface protection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the clamping device is designed to accommodate various tub shapes, then the system is highly adaptable, but the clamping mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a pivotable clamp mechanism that can rotate to accommodate different bathtub shapes and sizes. Rather than designing multiple fixed-position clamps for different tub configurations, the single clamp can dynamically adjust its angle and position through pivoting. This dynamic capability provides high adaptability while maintaining relatively simple mechanism design, avoiding the complexity of multiple specialized components.
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
Enables safe and comfortable entry and exit from bathtubs, accommodating various tub shapes and providing a secure seating solution for users with mobility challenges.
Implementation Method 1
The bench may include one or more suction cups which may be configured for securing the user-transfer bench system to the bathtub
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a user-transfer bench system for bathtubs. Further, the user-transfer bench system for bathtubs may include a clamping device which may be configured for securing the user-transfer bench system on a wall of the bathtub. Further, the clamping device may be mechanically fastened to the bathtub. Further, the user-transfer bench system for bathtubs may include a bench which can be straddled like a saddle and configured for facilitating mounting and dismounting actions performed by the user so that the user may safely enter and exit the bathtub. Further, the bench may be mechanically coupled to the clamping device.