Sliding Wheelchair Armrest Locking for Easy Position Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheelchairs with fixed armrests are inconvenient and difficult for users with varying body sizes or needs, as they cannot be adjusted to accommodate individual requirements.
Innovation Solution
A wheelchair armrest adjusting mechanism that allows users to slide and lock the armrests forward or backward using a control unit, comprising a support unit with locking units and a slide channel, enabling easy adjustment and fixation to a desired position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If armrests are fixed at both sides of the wheelchair, then the structure is simple and stable, but they cannot be adjusted to accommodate users with varying body sizes or needs
Solution Approach 1:
The armrest is designed with a slide channel that allows it to move horizontally along the support unit, transforming from a fixed static structure to a dynamic adjustable one. The locking unit with elastic element provides discrete positioning within the slide channel, enabling the armrest to be adjusted to different heights and positions according to user needs while maintaining structural stability when locked.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable mechanism is added to the armrest, then adaptability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to complex controls
Solution Approach 1:
The locking unit is designed with an elastic element that automatically engages with the slide channel when the armrest is moved to a desired position, providing self-locking functionality. The control unit simply needs to release the locking unit, and the elastic force automatically secures the armrest at the new position, eliminating the need for complex manual locking procedures and making the adjustment process intuitive and easy to operate.
3Ease of operation
If a simple control unit is used for adjustment, then ease of operation improves, but the reliability of locking may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with a simpler actuation system that controls the locking unit. The elastic element provides automatic engagement and securing forces, ensuring reliable locking without requiring complex control mechanisms. This substitution maintains simplicity while ensuring the armrest remains securely locked at adjusted positions through the inherent elastic force of the locking unit.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a wheelchair armrest adjusting mechanism comprising a support unit having a horizontal support connected to a top of an upright support, and a plurality of locking units located one side of the horizontal support; wherein an armrest has a slide channel for engaging with the horizontal support, a stop hole for creating a passage to the slide channel in order to fit one of the locking units when the stop hole is aligned with the locking unit, and a control unit fitted in the stop hole for pushing against the locking unit. When the control unit is pushed and held, the armrest can be slid along the horizontal support to align with one of locking units; and when the control unit is released, the locking unit is pushed into the stop hole and thereby locks the armrest in place.