Adjustable Wheelchair Push Handle Assembly for Ergonomic Incline Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commonly configured wheelchairs with fixed push handles at a standard height can be awkward for assistants of above or below average height, making it difficult to push or pull the wheelchair up or down inclines.
Innovation Solution
A wheelchair push handle assembly with adjustable height handles, featuring tubular channels, structural tubes, 'L' members, latch pins, and 'V' springs, allowing manual adjustment of handle height to accommodate different user heights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If push handles are fixed at standard height (3 feet), then the structure is simple and stable, but it becomes awkward for assistants of above or below average height to push or pull the wheelchair
Solution Approach 1:
The push handle assembly transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic, adjustable structure. The L-shaped member can be repositioned vertically along the tubular channel, and the latch pin mechanism allows the handle height to be changed based on the assistant's height, making the system adaptive rather than static
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is divided into separable components: the L-shaped member, the tubular channel with vertical slots, the latch pin, and the spring. This segmentation allows the L-shaped member to be independently repositioned and resecured at different heights, enabling adjustment while maintaining structural integrity
2Adaptability or versatility
If push handles are adjustable to different heights, then adaptability to different assistant heights is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the positional parameter of the push handle by allowing the L-shaped member to be repositioned at different vertical locations along the tubular channel. The vertical slots provide discrete positioning options, and the latch pin secures the selected position, enabling height adaptation without complex mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The latch pin acts as an intermediary element that connects the L-shaped member to the tubular channel at selected positions. The spring provides the necessary biasing force to maintain engagement. This intermediary mechanism enables height adjustment while keeping the overall structure relatively simple
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
Enables ergonomic handling of wheelchairs by assistants of varying heights, improving ease and efficiency when navigating ramps or inclines by allowing customizable handle positioning.
Implementation Method 1
right and left pluralities of V springs mounted within the column bores to operatively hold the latch pins within their apertures. The right and left V springs operatively outwardly biasing the latch pins through their apertures series.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheelchair push handle assembly incorporating a chair back having right and left loops, and an upper end; right and left upwardly opening tubes respectively received within the right and left loops; right and left eyes opening the right and left tubes, wherein the eyes overlie the chair back's loops; right and left “L” members having hollow bored columns within the right and left tubes; right and left series of apertures opening the right and left columns' hollow bores; right and left series of latch pins received within the right and left series of apertures; and right and left series of springs mounted within the right and left columns' hollow bores, wherein each spring is connected to one of the latch pins, wherein one of the right latch pins engages the right eye, and wherein one of the left latch pins engages the left eye.