Wheelchair Linkage Mechanism for Bed Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In combined beds, the presence of vertically downward protrusions like interlocking links and calf portions from existing reclining wheelchairs makes it difficult to function as a bed, as these components need to be disposed vertically below the posture-changing link.
Innovation Solution
A wheelchair design featuring a bottom portion composed of multiple linked components, with a drive link system that includes rollers for sliding along rail portions, allowing the wheelchair to transform between chair and flat postures without protrusions, enabling easy combination with a bed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional reclining wheelchair with interlocking links is used, then the wheelchair can change posture between chair and flat positions, but vertically downward protrusions prevent easy combination with a bed
Solution Approach 1:
The drive link is repositioned from a vertical arrangement (causing downward protrusion) to a horizontal arrangement (parallel to the seat bottom). This dimensional change allows the link to move laterally instead of protruding downward, enabling combination with bed components that occupy the vertical space below the wheelchair.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interlocking links are used for posture changing, then the wheelchair can function as both chair and bed, but the links protrude downward making bed combination difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The drive link is integrated into the existing wheelchair frame structure rather than being a separate protruding component. The link is positioned within the plane of the seat bottom and connected to the frame, merging its function into the overall structure without adding external complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the wheelchair is designed for reclining function, then it can convert to flat posture, but components need vertical space below the link that conflicts with bed lifting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is redesigned to operate in the horizontal plane rather than requiring vertical clearance. By parallelizing the drive link with the seat bottom and using lateral motion for posture conversion, the mechanism eliminates the need for vertical space below the link, allowing bed lifting mechanisms to be positioned in that previously required space.
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 allows for a wheelchair that can be easily converted into a bed, reducing the burden on caregivers and minimizing the downward protrusion of links, thus facilitating a seamless transition and maintaining the structural integrity of the combined bed.
Implementation Method 1
a first end that is disposed with a first roller slidable with respect to the second link, and has a second end that is disposed with a second roller slidable with respect to the third link
Data Source
AI summary
A wheelchair includes a first link that supports a first bottom, a second link that supports a second bottom, a third link that supports a third bottom, a fourth link that supports a fourth bottom, a first base portion that supports a fifth bottom, and a first drive link. The first drive link has a first roller and a second roller. The second link and the third link are provided with rail portions respectively. The wheelchair has wheelchair link portion allows the first roller to slide in the rail portion of the second link, and allows the second roller to slide in the rail portion of the third link.