Wheelchair Walker Coupling for Stable Gait Training
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gait training tools that attach a wheelchair to a walker do not securely position the wheelchair behind the patient, leading to instability and increased risk of falls during walking exercises, as they allow the wheelchair to twist and turn, and do not facilitate easy sitting.
Innovation Solution
A pair of couplings with clamping ends and high friction surfaces that securely attach a wheelchair to a walker, maintaining a fixed gap and preventing rotation, allowing the wheelchair to be positioned directly behind the patient for stability and safety during walking therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a gate training tool is used to attach a wheelchair to a walker, then the need for additional personnel to push the wheelchair is reduced, but the wheelchair is allowed to twist and turn, creating instability and increasing the risk of falls
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into multiple functional segments: a first coupling mechanism attaches to the walker, a second coupling mechanism attaches to the wheelchair, and a rigid coupling bar connects them. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the couplings provide attachment points while the rigid bar maintains fixed spacing and prevents rotation, solving the instability problem while maintaining productivity benefits
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of allowing the wheelchair to move freely and correcting position later, the invention inverts the approach by using a rigid coupling bar that proactively maintains fixed spacing and prevents rotation from occurring. The non-rotating coupling mechanisms constrain the wheelchair to remain directly behind the patient, inverting the problem from reactive correction to proactive prevention
2Ease of operation
If the wheelchair is positioned close to the patient, then the patient can easily sit and feel secure, but the wheelchair may interfere with walking exercises
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling bar length is made adjustable, allowing the system to adapt to different patient needs and exercise requirements. The coupling mechanisms also allow controlled movement within constraints, providing dynamic adjustment between maintaining close proximity for ease of sitting and allowing sufficient space for walking exercises, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability
3Ease of manufacture
If loosely coupled connections are used to attach the wheelchair, then the device is easy to assemble, but the wheelchair moves laterally, creating an uncomfortable experience and increasing fall risk
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device segments the attachment function into separate coupling mechanisms that can be independently attached to the walker and wheelchair, simplifying assembly. The rigid coupling bar then provides lateral stability, resolving the contradiction by allowing easy assembly of components while ensuring stable connection when assembled
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 provides a stable and secure attachment of the wheelchair to the walker, reducing the risk of falls and allowing patients to rest comfortably, eliminating the need for additional assistance to push the wheelchair, thereby enhancing patient confidence and safety during walking exercises.
Implementation Method 1
The clamping ends include a high coefficient of friction inner surface, for example a rubber layer, to firmly grasp the wheelchair and walker
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method using two couplings connecting a wheelchair to a walker for safely assisting a patient regaining their ability to walk. Physical therapists use the walker to train patients on walking to build strength, endurance, and balance. The couplings provide a fixed gap between the wheelchair and walker and keeps the wheelchair close to the patient. The patient can easily sit in the wheelchair, and the presence of the wheelchair minimizes the risk of falling, allows the patient to rest when fatigued, provides a sense of security, and eliminates a need for an assistance to push the wheelchair behind the patient.