Wheelchair User Interface Parameter Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power-driven wheelchairs require separate remote programmer units to set or modify programmable parameters, which can be inconvenient and limit user accessibility.
Innovation Solution
A user interface device associated with the power-driven wheelchair, capable of operating in a programming mode, allows users to select, modify, and save programmable parameters using a combination of a local storage device and a portable storage medium, enabling easy parameter management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate remote programmer unit is used to set or modify programmable parameters, then parameter management can be performed, but user accessibility and convenience are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the parameter management functionality previously housed in a separate remote programmer unit directly into the wheelchair's user interface device. This integration eliminates the need for a separate device while maintaining full parameter setting and modification capabilities, thereby improving user accessibility and convenience without sacrificing functional completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The user interface device is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it serves both as the primary control interface for wheelchair operation and as a programmable parameter management system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated separate programming equipment, reducing overall system complexity while improving ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If parameter management is integrated into the user interface device, then ease of operation improves, but local storage and portable storage communication is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication interface as an intermediary between the local storage device and portable storage medium. This intermediary handles the data transfer and protocol management, allowing the user interface device to access and manage parameters stored locally or on portable media without requiring complex direct integration between storage components.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system is segmented into local storage device and portable storage medium, each with distinct roles. The local storage provides quick access to frequently used parameters, while the portable storage medium offers expandable capacity and backup capabilities. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each storage component while maintaining overall system simplicity through clear functional separation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for setting or modifying a programmable operating parameter associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) operating a user interface device associated with a power driven wheelchair in a programming mode, b) selecting a programmable operating parameter associated with operation of the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device, c) selecting a value for the programmable operating parameter using the user interface device, and d) saving the selected value for the programmable operating parameter in a portion of a storage device associated with the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device. A method and apparatus for selecting one or more programmable parameter sets from a portable storage medium and saving the selected sets to a local storage device associated with a power driven wheelchair and vice versa is also provided.