Adjustable Walking Aid Handle With Dual-Angle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users need to purchase separate walking assistance devices with different functions for varying environments and support effects, such as crutches and trekking poles, due to differences in handle design and angle.
Innovation Solution
A handle for a walking assistance device featuring a connecting joint, handle member, and switching rod that allows for adjustable angle adjustment, enabling it to function as both a general walking stick and trekking pole, enhancing practicality and convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single walking assistance device is designed with a fixed handle angle, then the structure is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot adapt to different usage environments and functions
Solution Approach 1:
The handle member is designed to be rotatable relative to the connecting joint, allowing the handle angle to be dynamically adjusted between a first angle (for crutch use) and a second angle (for trekking pole use). This dynamic adjustment capability enables the device to adapt to different usage environments while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The walking assistance device is designed with universal functionality by enabling the handle to serve multiple purposes through angle adjustment. The same device can function as both a crutch (when handle is at first angle) and a trekking pole (when handle is at second angle), eliminating the need for users to purchase separate devices for different functions.
2Reliability
If users purchase separate crutches and trekking poles for different functions, then each device can be optimized for its specific use, but the overall cost and number of devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a single walking assistance device that can perform both crutch and trekking pole functions. The handle angle adjustment mechanism allows the device to be optimized for each specific use mode, while users only need to purchase one device instead of two separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of crutches and trekking poles into a single device. By combining the handle angle adjustment capability with the basic walking assistance structure, the device integrates multiple functions that were previously required to be provided by separate devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the handle angle is adjustable, then the device can serve multiple functions, but the positioning reliability after adjustment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through elastic elements that automatically engage with positioning slots. When the handle member is adjusted to a desired angle, the elastic element automatically snaps into the corresponding positioning slot, providing reliable positioning without requiring additional fastening operations or complex locking mechanisms from the user.
Solution Approach 2:
An elastic element acts as an intermediary between the handle member and the positioning slots. This elastic element transfers and maintains the positioning force, ensuring that the handle remains securely at the adjusted angle while allowing for easy adjustment when needed.
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
The handle provides a versatile solution that adapts to different uses, reducing the need for multiple devices and minimizing costs by allowing a single device to serve both purposes effectively.
Implementation Method 1
The handle member (20) is rotatably installed between the connecting joint (10) and the two trunnions (11)... The axial aperture (212) is equipped with a shaft pin (214) to be pivoted with the axial holes (12) of the two trunnions (11)
Implementation Method 2
The second connecting end (32) of the switching rod (30) is jacketed with a spring (34)... the spring (34) pushes the switching rod (30) to insert the plug (35) into the first positioning slot (111)
Data Source
AI summary
The handle for a walking assistance device includes: a connecting joint, a handle member and a switching rod. The handle member is rotatably installed between the connecting joint and the two trunnions, and utilizes the switching rod and the first and second positioning slot of the two trunnions to achieve the positioning state of the handle member after swinging. Therefore, the connecting joint can adjust the angle of the handle member according to the usage status, so that it is suitable for the support use of general walking sticks and the assistive walking use of trekking poles both, which greatly improves the practicality and convenience of the structure, while saving the cost of purchasing crutches with different functions.