Wheelchair Suspension Locking Assembly for Tip Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheelchairs face stability issues when traversing obstacles like curbs or inclines due to the limitations of their front and rear casters, which can lead to tipping forward or backward, compromising the vehicle's ability to navigate uneven terrain effectively.
Innovation Solution
A suspension system with a stabilizing assembly that includes sensors and stabilizing members to detect tipping conditions and inhibit further movement of the front casters relative to the frame, preventing tipping by locking them against upward movement when rear casters drop below a normal operating position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If front and rear casters are made smaller to improve stability, then stability is improved, but the ability to traverse obstacles is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system dynamically adjusts the position of front casters relative to the frame, allowing them to move between a retracted position (for stability) and an extended position (for obstacle traversal). This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to optimize for stability during normal operation while maintaining the capability to overcome obstacles when needed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If caster suspension is made rigid to prevent tipping, then stability is improved, but suspension capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The suspension system transitions from a static rigid or flexible connection to a dynamic system that can adjust its stiffness characteristics. The front casters are allowed to move along the longitudinal axis of the frame, creating a controlled degree of freedom that provides suspension capability while maintaining stability through the defined range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspension system separates the stabilization function from the suspension function by allowing front casters to move independently along the frame's longitudinal axis. This segmentation enables the rear casters to provide primary stabilization while the front casters adapt to terrain variations, resolving the contradiction between rigid stabilization and flexible suspension.
3Ease of operation
If caster suspension is made flexible to provide suspension, then suspension capability is improved, but stability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides controlled flexibility through the longitudinal movement of front casters, allowing suspension capability while maintaining stability. The range of motion is defined by the mechanical constraints of the suspension system, ensuring that flexibility is provided only within safe operational limits that prevent excessive tipping.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame and a locking assembly. The locking assembly inhibits tipping of a frame of the vehicle when tipping of the frame is detected.