Wheelchair Attachment Hook and Clamping Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Powered attachments for wheelchairs often have complex mechanisms, add weight and bulk, and suffer from poor stability and performance, requiring semi-permanent attachment to the wheelchair.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, compact powered attachment with a simple attachment mechanism that includes a frame with an electric motor, battery, and steerable wheel, featuring a hook for the foot support and clamps for secure engagement with the wheelchair, allowing easy user-aided attachment and detachment without permanent fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex attachment mechanisms are used to secure the powered attachment to the wheelchair, then the attachment becomes more stable and reliable, but the device complexity increases and requires semi-permanent attachment adding weight and bulk
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a hook element that engages with the wheelchair frame, and an engagement means with locking capability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall mechanism simple and modular.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be completely removable from the wheelchair, with no parts remaining attached during normal wheelchair use. This extraction principle eliminates the need for permanent fixtures while maintaining secure attachment when needed, reducing both complexity and bulk.
2Reliability
If semi-permanent attachment mechanisms are used to secure the powered attachment, then the attachment stability improves, but the weight and bulk of the wheelchair increases during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system transitions from a static permanent attachment to a dynamic removable attachment. The engagement means can lock the attachment securely when needed, then be completely removed when not needed, allowing the wheelchair weight to vary based on usage requirements rather than carrying constant unnecessary weight.
3Reliability
If complex attachment mechanisms with multiple engagement points are used, then the attachment reliability improves, but the ease of operation decreases requiring aid for attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be self-sufficient and easy for the wheelchair user to operate independently. The hook and engagement means work together in a straightforward manner that does not require external assistance, combining simplicity with reliable locking capability.
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 solution provides improved stability, performance, and ease of use by enabling easy attachment and detachment, reducing weight and bulk, and allowing the wheelchair to be used as an electrically powered quad or trike with enhanced mobility and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a frame, which supports an electric motor
Implementation Method 2
a battery
Data Source
AI summary
An attachment for a wheelchair, having a seat frame with a foot support, includes a frame, which supports an electric motor, a battery and a steering mechanism, and a wheel that is powered by the electric motor and is steerable by the steering mechanism. The attachment also includes a hook for supporting the foot support of the wheelchair when the attachment and the wheelchair are attached to one another.