Abstract: An invalid wheelchair/litter having improvements in the areas of a cushioning cylinder that softens the lowering motion from the litter configuration to the chair configuration to protect the patient, providing removable upholstery which permits use of slip covers and quick and easy cleaning of the apparatus, improved foot rest structure having numerous advantageous features, and a toilet seat variation to permit the user to perform bodily functions while seated in the invention apparatus.

Abstract: An invalid wheelchair/litter having improvements in the areas of a cushioning cylinder that softens the lowering motion from the chair configuration to the litter cnfiguration to protect the patient, providing removeable upholstery which permits use of slip covers and quick and easy cleaning of the apparatus, and improved foot rest structure having numerous advantageous features.

Abstract: An invalid wheelchair/litter having improvements in the areas of a cushioning cylinder that softens the lowering motion from the chair configuration to the litter configuration to protect the patient, providing removeable upholstery which permits use of slip covers and quick and easy cleaning of the apparatus, and improved foot rest structure having numerous advantageous features.

Abstract: A quick release Fowler for hospital stretchers of the manual as opposed to the crank actuated type. A ratchet bar attached to the frame is provided with a sliding block and a pin that fits into slots in the ratchet bar. The pin is operated with respect to the slots remotely by a cable attached to a trigger/handle assembly at the head end of the Fowler. Safety means are provided so that the Fowler cannot be inadvertently lowered without the attendant assuming the weight of the Fowler, with or without a patient thereon, himself. The ratchet bar also permits a 90.degree. raised position of the Fowler to the stretcher top.

Abstract: A quick release for the back rest (Fowler) of hospital stretchers. The conventional threaded crank actuator carries a mating threaded block and a sliding block, the sliding block being connected to the head rest. Manually operated hook means permits disengagement between the blocks to free the back rest. Inadvertent disengagement preventing safety means, and re-engagement means are also provided.