Accessible Public Transportation System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The present inventive concept relates to an accessible public transportation system that incorporates an adjustable bench, enabling customization to accommodate passengers with varying mobility needs, thereby enhancing overall accessibility and inclusivity in public transportation vehicles.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for an adjustable bench primarily focused on providing a versatile seating solution for various fitness and exercise activities. However, this invention had limitations in terms of its applicability to other industries. The present inventive concept addresses the need for accessible public transportation systems, which is a pressing concern in today's society. The lack of customizable seating solutions in public transportation vehicles hinders the ability of passengers with mobility impairments to access and utilize these services comfortably and safely. The present inventive concept solves this problem by applying the core technology of the adjustable bench to public transportation vehicles, thereby providing a much-needed solution for enhancing accessibility and inclusivity.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises an adjustable bench installed on a floor of a public transportation vehicle, which is selectively configurable to accommodate passengers with varying mobility needs. The bench can be configured to provide a flat top surface for wheelchair accessibility or a sloped top surface for passengers requiring additional support. The adjustable bench can also be designed to include a storage compartment for passengers with mobility aids. The system can be further customized by installing multiple adjustable benches, each designed to accommodate different types of mobility needs. The inventive concept can be implemented in various public transportation vehicles, including buses, trains, and ferries, to name a few.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims provide a novel application of the adjustable bench technology to public transportation vehicles, which is non-obvious compared to the original patent. The inventive concept's selective configurability to accommodate passengers with varying mobility needs and its customization possibilities for different public transportation vehicles demonstrate a significant inventive step.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adjustable benches with different dimensions, materials, or mechanisms for adjusting the height and slope of the seat. Additionally, the system could be integrated with other accessibility features, such as ramps, elevators, or wheelchair restraints, to provide a comprehensive accessibility solution for public transportation vehicles.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the public transportation industry, where there is a growing need for accessible and inclusive solutions. The target market includes public transportation agencies, vehicle manufacturers, and accessibility solution providers. The inventive concept can also be applied to other industries, such as healthcare, hospitality, and education, where accessibility and inclusivity are essential considerations.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Transportation vehicle design and accessibility engineering, focusing on seating systems and mobility accommodation technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An engineer with expertise in vehicle interior design, accessibility solutions, and adaptive seating mechanisms, typically holding a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering or transportation design
Obviousness Rationale
A person of ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's adjustable bench technology provides a clear technical foundation for adapting the design to public transportation vehicles. The core mechanical principles of adjustable seating, slope configuration, and modular design are directly transferable to transportation accessibility solutions. The PTD represents a predictable application of known bench adjustment technologies to a new context of public transportation vehicle design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,088 |
|---|---|
| Title | Adjustable bench |
| Assignee(s) | Ombase Ventures Ltd. |