Adaptive Wheelchair Seat Cushion for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An adjustable seat cushion assembly for wheelchairs, tailored to meet the unique needs of users in high-security, disaster relief, extreme weather, transportation, and clinical settings.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an adjustable seat cushion assembly for wheelchairs, but its design limitations hindered its adoption in specialized environments. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel features and materials to cater to specific user needs in niche markets.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The adaptive wheelchair seat cushion assembly comprises a base with a leg support, a support portion, and a well, and an air pad assembly with multiple support zones. Each zone is selectively inflatable and deflatable to accommodate various user positions and security requirements. The assembly may include a waterproof and breathable outer layer, a heating or cooling element, and sensors to monitor user comfort and pressure distribution. The cushion is configurable to provide optimal support and pressure relief for users in emergency situations, extreme weather conditions, and clinical settings.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce the concept of adaptability to specific environments, which is not addressed in the original patent. The inventive step lies in the combination of adjustable support zones, specialized materials, and sensors to create a highly customizable and responsive seat cushion assembly.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include a modular design allowing users to swap out support zones or materials, or integrating the seat cushion assembly with other wheelchair components, such as the backrest or footrest. Variations may include using different materials or geometries for the air pad assembly, or incorporating additional features, such as massage or vibration elements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptive wheelchair seat cushion assembly has significant commercial potential in the healthcare, transportation, and disaster relief industries, where users require specialized support and comfort in unique environments. The market for such a product is substantial, with potential customers including wheelchair manufacturers, healthcare providers, and government agencies.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61G5/1045 |
| A | A47 | A47C7/142 |
| A | A47 | A47C7/18 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Assistive mobility technologies, specifically wheelchair seating systems and ergonomic support devices for individuals with mobility limitations
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or rehabilitation technology specialist with expertise in adaptive seating design, materials science, and ergonomic support systems, familiar with wheelchair cushion configurations and pressure management techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's environmental adaptations and specialized support zones represent predictable variations of the source patent's fundamental adjustable seat cushion design. The core technical elements of independent air support zones, pressure distribution, and modular configuration are directly derived from the source patent's teachings. A PHOSITA would understand that extending these core principles to specific use environments represents a logical and incremental innovation within the existing technological framework.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,471 |
|---|---|
| Title | Adjustable seat cushion |
| Assignee(s) | PERMOBIL, INC. |