Wheelchair Backrest Hinge With Locking Pin And Aperture Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheelchairs with pivoting backrests often have complex and heavy designs due to separate latching mechanisms for position adjustments and folding, which increase weight and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A wheelchair with a single, integrated hinge and latching mechanism using a locking pin and array of apertures, where plugs can be inserted to define discrete locking positions, allowing for adjustable and foldable backrest configurations with a mechanical memory to easily return to previous settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate latching mechanisms are provided for position adjustments and folding, then the backrest can be securely locked at multiple positions, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position adjustment latching mechanism and the folding latching mechanism into a single integrated latching mechanism. The locking pin can engage with multiple locking apertures in the backrest frame to provide position adjustment, and the same mechanism also provides folding functionality. This merging eliminates redundant components and reduces overall complexity while maintaining reliable positioning at multiple angles.
Solution Approach 2:
The single latching mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides position adjustment through engagement with different locking apertures, enables folding of the backrest, and maintains secure locking at all operational positions. The locking pin and associated components are designed to perform both adjustment and folding operations, making the mechanism universal and eliminating the need for separate dedicated mechanisms for each function.
2Reliability
If separate latching mechanisms are provided for position adjustments and folding, then the backrest can be securely locked at multiple positions, but the weight of the wheelchair increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position adjustment latching mechanism and the folding latching mechanism into a single integrated latching mechanism. The locking pin can engage with multiple locking apertures in the backrest frame to provide position adjustment, and the same mechanism also provides folding functionality. This merging eliminates redundant components and reduces overall complexity while maintaining reliable positioning at multiple angles.
3Device complexity
If a single integrated hinge and latching mechanism is used, then the construction is simplified and weight is reduced, but the ease of operation for adjusting and folding may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is designed to be self-servicing through the use of a locking pin that can be easily inserted into or removed from locking apertures by the user. The mechanical design allows the pin to automatically engage with the appropriate aperture when the backrest is positioned at the desired angle, eliminating the need for complex controls or multiple separate operations. This self-service approach maintains ease of operation while simplifying the overall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheelchair comprises a base frame, a backrest frame and a hinge assembly. The base frame has first and second side frame members. The hinge assembly connects the backrest frame to a portion of the base frame for selective pivotal movement. The hinge assembly includes a locking mechanism configured to provide selective discrete locking positions of the backrest relative to the base frame. The locking mechanism includes a locking pin and a plurality of cooperating locking apertures. The locking pin is adapted to selectively engage one of the plurality of locking apertures to define a backrest angle relative to the base frame. One or more plugs are adapted to engage one or more of the plurality of locking apertures to prevent the locking pin from cooperating with the plugged locking aperture.