Wheelchair Restraint Claw Assembly for Easy Vehicle Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing mobility devices like wheelchairs in vehicles are difficult for individuals with disabilities to operate, cumbersome to disengage, and can obstruct the mobility device's function or reduce ground clearance.
Innovation Solution
A securing device with adjustable components, including a base member, vertical support, and coupling arms with a locking system controlled by a solenoid and cable system, allowing easy engagement and disengagement by the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used to secure mobility devices, then the mobility device is held firmly in place, but the mechanism becomes difficult for individuals with disabilities to operate independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical locking mechanisms with an electromechanical system featuring a solenoid actuator and cable-operated latch. This allows individuals with disabilities to operate the system using simple pulling or pushing motions on the handle, converting manual mechanical effort into effective locking/unlocking action through the cable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable system acts as an intermediary between the user's simple handle operation and the latch mechanism. The cable transmits force from the handle to the latch, enabling easy operation while maintaining secure locking. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between user capability and securing requirement.
2Reliability
If fixed locking devices are installed to secure mobility devices, then the device is restrained effectively, but it becomes cumbersome to disengage and remove quickly in emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from a static fixed mechanism to a dynamic system where the latch can quickly shift between locked and unlocked states. The cable-operated latch allows rapid disengagement by simply releasing the handle, enabling quick removal in emergencies while maintaining secure restraint during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is pre-configured with spring-loaded components and tensioned cables that automatically engage the latch when the handle is released. This preliminary positioning of components ensures that disengagement occurs instantly when needed, eliminating the need for manual manipulation during emergency situations.
3Reliability
If rigid securing structures are used to hold mobility devices, then the device is firmly positioned, but it obstructs the full function of the mobility device and reduces ground clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into separate functional components: a base member for mounting, a vertical support for height adjustment, and a coupling arm for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, maintaining security while adapting to different mobility device configurations and preserving ground clearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling arm incorporates adjustable and movable elements that allow the securing structure to adapt to different mobility device sizes and configurations. The system can be adjusted to accommodate various wheelbases, heights, and device types without obstructing the mobility device's functional movement or reducing ground clearance.
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 device provides secure and easy positioning of mobility devices, accommodating various sizes and configurations, while ensuring easy operation and preventing obstruction during use.
Implementation Method 1
A locking system comprising a solenoid and a cable system coupled to the locking means to provide a user control of the locking means engagement of the securing means in an open or close position
Data Source
AI summary
A restraint apparatus for securing a mobility device in a vehicle includes a base configured to being mounted to a floor of the vehicle, a support coupled to the base and extending upward therefrom, and a backing plate adjustably coupled to the support. The backing plate defines a channel to provide vertical adjustment of the backing plate with respect to the support. An upper support is pivotally coupled to the backing plate, and a claw assembly is coupled to the upper support. The claw assembly includes a claw member and a latching member, where the latching member is pivotally coupled to the claw member to enable pivotal movement between an unlatched position and a latched position. A control system operably controls the pivotal movement of the latching member between its latched position to its unlatched positions. In the unlatched position, the claw assembly provides an opening for receiving the device.