Self-Adjusting Walker Leg Mechanism for Stair Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobility aids for individuals with lower extremity injuries or disabilities, such as walkers and canes, lack stability and balance when traversing stairs, leading to falls and injuries, and existing solutions are either costly or inadequate in providing structural support.
Innovation Solution
A self-adjusting assistive mobility device with a frame assembly and leg adjustment mechanism that allows for selective leg length adjustment, featuring a braking system for secure attachment to stair treads, enabling safe ascent and descent of stairs while providing stability and balance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If standard walkers or canes are used for stair traversal, then the device structure remains simple, but stability and balance are insufficient leading to falls and injuries
Solution Approach 1:
The walker is divided into functional modules: adjustable leg assembly with telescopic mechanisms, braking system with independent controls, and stair attachment components. Each module can be independently adjusted or maintained, allowing complex functionality while managing structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The walker incorporates dynamically adjustable leg lengths that can be modified in real-time to match different stair configurations. The braking system provides dynamic control during descent, and the attachment mechanisms adapt to various stair treads, transforming a static device into a dynamic system that responds to changing terrain requirements
2Reliability
If electronic chairs with mechanical attachment are installed for stair propulsion, then stability and support are improved, but the cost increases significantly to $4,000-$10,000
Solution Approach 1:
The walker employs self-adjusting leg length mechanisms that automatically adapt to stair heights without requiring external power sources or complex electronic controls. The braking system is mechanically actuated by the user's own force, eliminating the need for motors, batteries, and electronic control systems while maintaining effective stair traversal capability
Solution Approach 2:
The design uses simple, inexpensive mechanical components such as telescopic leg mechanisms, friction-based brakes, and removable attachment feet that can be manufactured at low cost. These components are designed to be replaced if worn, rather than investing in expensive electronic systems with longer theoretical lifetimes but higher initial costs
3Adaptability or versatility
If leg length is adjusted for stair traversal, then adaptability to different stair configurations is improved, but the adjustment mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The leg length adjustment mechanism allows continuous variation of leg length parameters to match different stair heights and configurations. The telescopic design enables smooth parameter changes without discrete steps, providing precise adaptability while using simple mechanical expansion and contraction rather than complex articulated mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are self-adjusting devices and systems for assistive ambulation and traversing of stairs. In one aspect, a disclosed assistive device encompasses a frame assembly including a first side frame connected with a second side frame, each side frame with first and second legs each having first and second opposed ends, and a gripping member connecting first ends of the first and second legs, the second ends of first and second legs having an extendable portion configured to allow selective adjustment of a leg length; and a leg adjustment system contained within a portion of each side frame configured to correspondingly lengthen one leg at a leg length adjustment ratio in response to shortening of another leg. In further aspects, the legs can releasably attach to a stabilizing component for stabilizing the device. Also disclosed herein are kits and methods for using the disclosed devices and systems.