Wearable Armrest for Standing Ergonomic Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional armrests integrated into seating structures are ineffective for providing support in standing or mobile activities, leading to unsupported arms for extended periods and causing strain on the shoulder and musculoskeletal system due to ergonomic deficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A wearable armrest apparatus with adjustable strap portions and armrest structures that can be worn around the waist or torso, providing direct support to elbows and forearms without requiring lateral or vertical displacement, featuring a size-adjustment feature to accommodate different body types and positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional armrests are integrated into seating structures, then arm support is provided during seated activities, but arm support is unavailable during standing or mobile activities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveavailability of arm supportVSAvoidergonomic support quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The armrest system is segmented from the seating structure and made into a separate wearable component that can be independently positioned on the user's body, allowing it to function during both seated and standing activities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The armrest is designed with adjustable positioning capabilities and wearable straps that allow it to adapt dynamically to different user positions and activities, transitioning from a static integrated component to a flexible mobile support system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If traditional armrests are used, then arm support is provided, but elbow displacement is required causing strain on shoulder joint and musculoskeletal system

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvearm support availabilityVSAvoidstrain on shoulder joint and musculoskeletal system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The armrest is positioned locally adjacent to the user's body rather than requiring displacement, with the support surface oriented to match the natural position of the elbow and forearm, eliminating the need for lateral or vertical elbow movement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring the user to move their arm to reach the armrest, the armrest is positioned to receive the arm in its natural extended state, inverting the traditional approach of having the user actively reach for support

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional armrests are integrated into external objects, then arm support is provided in stationary settings, but arm support cannot be provided during mobile activities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveactivity type compatibilityVSAvoidwearability and adjustability features

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The armrest is designed as a universal support device that can be worn on the body and used across multiple activity types including standing, mobile, and seated tasks, replacing the need for multiple different armrest configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12115094B1Wearable armrest apparatuses

Publication Date: 2024.10.15 WISHNEW LLC

AI summary

This disclosure relates to wearable armrest apparatuses and methods of using the same. The wearable armrest apparatuses are adapted to be worn around individuals' waists or torsos, and they include armrest structures that can support the individuals' elbows and/or forearms. The wearable armrest apparatuses are able to support the individuals' elbows and/or forearms when performing various types of tasks, including tasks that are performed in standing positions or which require mobility. The wearable armrest apparatuses can be arranged in an ergonomic design that reduces strain on shoulder, neck, and back regions in a more effective manner compared to traditional armrests that are incorporated into seating assemblies. Other embodiments are disclosed herein as well.