Single Wheel Patents (Class 180/13)
  • Patent number: 11648922
    Abstract: A brake assembly for a manually-operated, height-adjustable wheeled vehicle according to a first aspect includes a brake cable assembly. The brake assembly includes a brake cable housing shaped to enclose an excess portion of the brake cable assembly. The brake assembly includes a cable adjuster coupled to the brake cable assembly. The cable adjuster is enclosed by the brake cable housing. There is additionally provided a wheel fork assembly for a manually-operated, height-adjustable wheeled vehicle according to a first aspect. The vehicle includes a frame member. The wheel fork assembly includes a mount shaped to couple with a lower end of the frame member of the vehicle. The mount has a longitudinal axis. The wheel fork assembly includes a wheel fork having a longitudinal axis offset from the longitudinal axis of the mount. The wheel fork is integrally coupled to and formed with the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 11576830
    Abstract: An auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair has at least one electrically driven drive wheel and a coupling mechanism for coupling the auxiliary drive device to the wheelchair. The coupling mechanism includes a movable locking element which is movably supported in the coupling mechanism. The movable locking element can be in a locking position in which it causes locking in a positive-locking manner so that the auxiliary drive device is coupled to the wheelchair and, by operation of a handle, the locking element can be moved in a release position in which uncoupling of the auxiliary drive device from the wheelchair is possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: ALBER GMBH
    Inventor: Joachim Menig
  • Patent number: 11266553
    Abstract: A mobile wheelchair/chair, especially for the disabled, having a body support system mounted on the casing, a swivel and drive assembly and castors is characterized in that the swivel and drive assembly equipped with drive motor (8) and swivel motor (5) has s form of coupled vertical fixed fork (6) furnished with at least one swivel wheel (7), and seat (3) is mounted on the steering and swivel axis of fixed fork (6), with swivel motor (5) located in the upper part of the steering and swivel column (6a) of fixed fork (6). Casing (1) is equipped with castors (2) in its lower part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Inventor: Jan Wycislik
  • Patent number: 11186342
    Abstract: A motorized and controllable wheel system for a non-motorized stander is disclosed. Micro-controllers are programmed to be capable of acquiring and processing multiple inputs from the user and therapist and controlling the motors. Additional sensors are implemented in order to enhance safety and provide some device autonomy with the goal of providing a device that improves the mobility, autonomy, and educational experience of children.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: Institute of Technology
    Inventor: Steven Day
  • Patent number: 11124220
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a steer-by-wire type steering apparatus. According to present embodiments, in the steer-by-wire type steering apparatus, when a driver generates a larger steering torque than a reaction torque of a reaction motor in a steering shaft, rotation of the steering shaft can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventors: InHwan Lee, Hyoung Woo Kim
  • Patent number: 11123242
    Abstract: A motorized wheelchair chassis includes a frame assembly having a first frame element that supports first and second caster wheels at an end of the first frame element. The first frame element is designed to support a seat assembly, a battery support assembly secured to an underside of the frame assembly, at least one battery, first and second power drive assemblies disposed on lateral sides of the battery support assembly, and first and second drive wheels driven by the first and second power drive assemblies, respectively. The frame assembly further comprises a second frame element that is secured to the battery support assembly. The first frame element is supported onto the second frame element via a coupling structure comprising a ball-joint bearing permitting relative movement of the first frame element with respect to the second frame element in more than two degrees of freedom within a limited range of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: INVACARE INTERNATIONAL GMBH
    Inventors: Axel Puschmann, Peter Jost, Julian Kyle Verkaaik
  • Patent number: 10980685
    Abstract: A connection assembly for coupling an auxiliary drive system to a wheelchair for disabled people, of the type comprising a fixing structure adapted to be fixed to the framework of the wheelchair and a longitudinal member operatively connected to the fixing structure so that the longitudinal development axis of the longitudinal member is substantially parallel to the advancement direction of the wheelchair. The connection assembly comprises connection means associated with the free end of the longitudinal member and with the auxiliary drive system, such connection means are configured to allow rapid coupling and decoupling of the auxiliary drive system to/from the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Klaxon Mobility GMBH
    Inventor: Antonio Benedini
  • Patent number: 10974554
    Abstract: A trailer tow assist apparatus comprises a screw and nut drive with a housing, an actuation member coupled to a screw, a wheel assembly, a rigid member upstanding on said wheel assembly and a compressible and resilient member mounted within the housing in a contact with rigid member. A mounting member is provided for attaching the housing to the trailer frame or tow bar. The housing and the mounting member can be adapted with apertures for height adjustment purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Inventor: Dennis Grieve
  • Patent number: 10918542
    Abstract: An attachment for a wheelchair, having a seat frame with a foot support, includes a frame, which supports an electric motor, a battery and a steering mechanism, and a wheel that is powered by the electric motor and is steerable by the steering mechanism. The attachment also includes a hook for supporting the foot support of the wheelchair when the attachment and the wheelchair are attached to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Inventor: Kevin Daniel
  • Patent number: 10888474
    Abstract: Disclosed is a wheelchair power apparatus for electronic driving conversion. It is an object of the present invention to provide a wheelchair power apparatus for electronic driving conversion, which can provide severely disabled people, for instance, patients with spinal cord injury, the weak or the old, who use wheelchairs, with convenience in movement, and convert a manual four-wheel wheelchair into an electronic three-wheel wheelchair just by detachably mounting the electronic module having electronic wheels to the existing manual four-wheel wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: ROBO3 CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Joon-Hyung Kim, Seong Hyun Paek
  • Patent number: 10857046
    Abstract: Disclosed is a wheelchair power apparatus for electronic driving conversion. The wheelchair power apparatus for electronic driving conversion includes: an electronic module combined with a combining means of a manual wheelchair, wherein the electronic module includes: a driving wheel in which an in-wheel motor is mounted; an operation handle located directly above the driving wheel; a connector connected directly below the operation handle; a steering housing mounted directly below the connector in such a way that one side of the connector can be moved forwards or backwards inside the steering housing; a combining unit mounted directly below the steering housing and combined with a coupling means of a wheelchair; a battery mounted at the front of the combining unit; and strut supports and collapsible bars mounted at right and left sides of the driving wheel, so that the manual wheelchair is converted into an electronic wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: ROBO3 CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Joon-Hyung Kim, Seong Hyun Paek
  • Patent number: 10780928
    Abstract: Electric vehicles, electric vehicle systems, and methods for controlling the electric vehicles or electric vehicle systems are described. In one implementation, an electric vehicle includes a main body for carrying a user, a plurality of electric wheels mounted on the main body, and a controller mounted on the main body. The main body includes a front main body and a rear main body removably connected to the front main body. The front main body can move independently when disconnected from the rear main body. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of electric wheels is mounted on the front main body. The controller is configured to send drive signals to the plurality of electric wheels according to input of the user. The plurality of electric wheels are configured to rotate according to the drive signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Shenzhen Qianhai Walnut Technology Limited
    Inventor: Yik Hang Pang
  • Patent number: 10751232
    Abstract: An undercarriage system couples to other vehicles, such as wheelchairs and provides mobile application-driven operation. In an exemplary application, the system may be configured to receive a push driven wheelchair and temporarily retrofit the wheelchair for motorized operation. The system includes a console for a mobile computing device that operates a software application and user interface that steers the undercarriage system for navigating through an area such as an airport or other complex. In some embodiments, the software application may provide automated navigation of the undercarriage system so that, for example, the user only needs to enter in a destination (for example, a terminal number) and the application automatically drives the system including the wheelchair to the destination. Sensors and/or cameras may detect objects or markers to guide the steering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Inventor: Erwin Roldan Ilao
  • Patent number: 10654506
    Abstract: A gyroscopically-responsive power assisted moment arm is disclosed for use in connection with vehicles such as load carrying devices. A moment arm extends to a pivot point such that when a longitudinal force is applied at the moment arm, a sensor senses such force and outputs an energizing signal to a motor to drive a wheel. If a rotational or vertical force is applied to the moment arm, the motor need not be driven. According to the invention, therefore, a power assist can be provided to a user to drive a wheel in a desired direction of transport while not causing drive during tipping or unloading of the load carrying portion of the vehicle. Such an apparatus can be advantageously applied to a power assisted wheelbarrow, as one exemplary application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: Secure Information Devices Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Snyder
  • Patent number: 10588796
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for coupling an auxiliary element to a wheelchair, said auxiliary element being of the type used to convert a wheelchair into a chair in the form of a tricycle or similar, said system comprising a coupling bar for coupling an auxiliary element and a coupling accessory for coupling an auxiliary element, such that the means for coupling the coupling bar can be fitted into the coupling accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: Batec Mobility, .L.
    Inventor: Pablo Alejandro Bach Castillo
  • Patent number: 10463547
    Abstract: The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a small-sized electric vehicle that is capable of assisting power of a wheelchair coupled to the small-sized electric vehicle, and that is capable of traveling alone in a state of being detached from the wheelchair. A folding vehicle 1 is capable of making a wheelchair 101 coupled by a coupling member 61 move in a self-traveling manner using a battery 14 and an in-wheel motor M etc. Furthermore, the folding vehicle 1 is capable of self-traveling by using the battery 14 and the in-wheel motor M etc. while in an independent state of not being coupled to the wheelchair 101.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignees: TOYODA IRON WORKS CO., LTD., NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, ACCURATE SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Mitsutoshi Kano, Yoshinori Kondo, Junichi Yasu
  • Patent number: 10434925
    Abstract: An electric moving device for vehicles, relating to the trailer area, having a base frame, a travelling mechanism, a steering handle mechanism, a driving mechanism and an electric control assembly. The base frame has a support frame and a connecting frame, and the connecting frame is disposed over the support frame. The travelling mechanism has roller wheels on the support frame, and the driving mechanism has a driver and a clutch system. The driver and clutch system are located on two sides of the support frame separately. The clutch system has an input end connected to the driver in a transmission way and an output end connected to the roller wheels in a transmission way. The steering handle mechanism is rotationally fixed to the base frame so the steering handle mechanism could deflect to the two sides of the travelling direction of the moving device for vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: Zhejiang Nowvow Mechanical and Electrical Corp., Ltd.
    Inventors: Litian Zhang, Sanjiu Zhang, Keqian Xiao, Liangdao Tang, Guogang Zhang
  • Patent number: 10307315
    Abstract: A retrofitable drive assembly attaches and detaches quickly, easily, and reversibly from a conventional, manually powered wheelchair and is employed to convert the manually powered wheelchair into an electrically powered wheelchair. The drive assembly includes a plurality of wheel troughs, each adjustably sizeable to receive therein a rear push wheel of the manually powered wheelchair, regardless of the wheelchair's size and its rear push wheels' dimensions. In addition, the drive assembly includes two drive wheels positioned towards a front end of the drive assembly and a single caster-wheel assembly positioned towards a rear end of the drive assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: The Center for Discovery, Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Collura, John Damiao, Laura Dancesia, Jason Kean
  • Patent number: 10286977
    Abstract: A hoverboard walker attachment apparatus to motorize a standard walker using a hoverboard. The apparatus has a principal support having a vertical stem, a pair of arms, and a hoverboard clamp attachment on a base of the principal support. The hoverboard clamp attachment is removably disposed on a hoverboard clamp disposed on a middle of a hoverboard such that it is completely fixed. A pair of walker clamps is disposed on a distal end of each of the pair of arms. Each of the pair of walker clamps is removably disposed on a leg of a walker. A user sits on a seat of the walker and places his or her feet onto a pair of platforms of the hoverboard. A kill switch is in operational communication with the hoverboard and may be disposed on the walker, wherein the kill switch is configured to cut power to the hoverboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Inventor: Robert Haenel
  • Patent number: 10285894
    Abstract: A hoverboard walker attachment apparatus to motorize a standard walker using a hoverboard. The apparatus has a principal support having a vertical stem, a pair of arms, and a hoverboard clamp on a base of the principal support. The hoverboard clamp is removably disposed on a middle of a hoverboard such that it is completely fixed. A pair of walker clamps is disposed on a distal end of each of the pair of arms. Each of the pair of walker clamps is removably disposed on a leg of a walker such that it is completely fixed. A user sits on a seat of the walker and places his or her feet onto a pair of platforms of the hoverboard. A kill switch is in operational communication with the hoverboard and may be disposed on the walker, wherein the kill switch is configured to cut power to the hoverboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2019
    Inventor: Robert Haenel
  • Patent number: 10130531
    Abstract: A set of devices with multiple combinations, any one of which said combination may be affixed to a manual wheelchair thereupon providing electrically driven motive source to propel and control the wheelchair. The options include choice of: either an internally driven wheel driver hub or a driver hub powered by an external motor; either disc brakes or regenerative braking using the internal drive electric driver hub; any one of four different control column configurations, left mount, right mount, center mount or mounting on both sides of the wheelchair, single wheel or double wheel drive; and controls comprising an LCD monitor, brake handle and thumb throttle mountable on either one or both of the handle bars of the chosen control columns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2018
    Inventor: Gregory Edward Laconis
  • Patent number: 10076457
    Abstract: This relates to a propulsion attachment for a manual wheelchair and methods of operation. The propulsion attachment can include three wheels, a motor, a gearbox, and a handlebar. The propulsion attachment can attach to the footrest of the wheelchair using a pin. The motor can be located in the rear side of the propulsion attachment and can push the user in a forward direction. Alternatively, the user can manipulate a switch located on the handlebar to allow the propulsion attachment to pull the user in a reverse direction. The propulsion attachment can include a plurality of brakes, where each brake can control one of the wheels. Additionally, the propulsion attachment can operate at variable speeds using the motor and the power from one or both batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Eric J. Behm
  • Patent number: 9999279
    Abstract: A bracelet or flexible band comprised of a flexible member that on one end is interconnected to a knife and on another end, is connected to a sheath that selectively receives the knife in the locking fashion. When needed, the knife is rotated within the sheath to facilitate release thereof from a lock that is integral with the sheath. Once removed from the sheath, the knife can be used for self-defense, cutting rope or cord in an emergency situation, or for general utility cutting tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: Outdoor Edge Cutlery Corporation
    Inventor: David R. Bloch
  • Patent number: 9908549
    Abstract: A novel apparatus and methods for automating or robotically controlling a motorized pallet jack are described herein. A fixed threaded shaft connected to the main pallet structure has a threaded engagement with a rotating shaft. The rotating shaft has two motorized drive wheels that each can be independently controlled causing potential rotation of the rotating shaft with respect to the fixed threaded shaft. Independent control of each drive wheel provides the ability to translate the jack, turn the jack, as well as raise and lower the pallet jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2018
    Inventor: Gregory James Newell
  • Patent number: 9796401
    Abstract: The motorized wheel accessory for a stroller is an after-market device that is configured to interface with a stroller in order to mobilize the stroller without the need for an end user to actually push said stroller. The motorized wheel accessory includes a frame that is configured to attach onto a rear axle of a stroller. The frame includes a power member that is wired to a motor. The motor is in mechanical connection with a pair of wheels. The pair of wheels propel the stroller. The frame may be adjustable to accommodate differently-sized strollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Inventors: Michael Ammirati, Michelle Ammirati
  • Patent number: 9744095
    Abstract: An improved walker has a detachable propulsion unit, which is attached to the walker by a platform member which extends forwardly from the propulsion unit, with an upwardly extending walker structure partially attached to the platform member. The user steps onto the propulsion unit while support on either side by the handles of the walker. The platform member is so attached to the propulsion unit as to allow a left section and a right section of the propulsion unit to be independently movable with respect to one another, thereby allowing operation of the propulsion unit. The propulsion unit may be a hover board or power board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventors: Angelo L. Mazzei, Javier Bustamante
  • Patent number: 9586605
    Abstract: A powered pallet truck is provided having a base support portion and a load lift portion. The powered pallet truck has a lift cylinder device connected at a lower portion to a forward extending lift cylinder device seat on the base frame and pivotally connected at an upper portion within a recessed channel in the load lift frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: BIG LIFT, LLC
    Inventors: Jinhui He, Lili Wu, Zhoujie Zhu, Linjie Xu, Qichen Ma
  • Patent number: 9555822
    Abstract: A transport device has a carriage and at least three wheels mounted at a minimum of two axles. One of the axles is a driven axle which carries only a single, centrally mounted, electrically driven wheel. A support unit is configured to accommodate an elongated load, such as a golf bag. A guide component on a control side has a handle area. When the cart is in the operational position, the drive axle at the carriage is on hand at the control side, and the support unit substantially protrudes in the direction of the control side laterally across the drive axle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: Aurotec GmbH
    Inventors: Ernst Rauch, Stefan Zikeli
  • Patent number: 9482183
    Abstract: A control system for a thrust reverser with a movable cowl includes an electromechanical actuator to actuate the movable cowl, an electric drive unit (M) driving the actuator, and a power control unit capable of controlling the electric drive unit (M). The power control unit moves the movable cowl to a closed position and/or to a deployed position. In particular, the control system includes an electronic circuit for electric braking capable of braking the electric drive unit (M), in case of overspeed of the drive unit when the movable cowl is moved to the closed position and/or to the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Hakim Maalioune, Alain Nourrisson
  • Patent number: 9475513
    Abstract: A pallet truck is provided having an electrical system that reduces wear and the likelihood of fracture of the control wiring and output cable by having a controller to which they are connected also be mounted to the steering mechanism that rotates relative to a base support portion of a truck frame, and a hydraulic power unit that permits a reduced size and height, with a manual hydraulic cylinder and cylinder body at a substantially similar height, and the cylinder body and oil storage cavity in a concentric arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: BIG LIFT, LLC
    Inventors: Yuanwei Liu, Feiquan Meng, Jinhui He
  • Patent number: 9371060
    Abstract: A trailer steering assembly includes a trailer. A mount is structured to be movably coupled to the trailer. A first actuator is coupled to the mount. The first actuator positions the mount between a raised position and a lowered position. A pair of wheels is coupled to the mount. The wheels may abut a support surface when the mount is positioned in the lowered position. A motor is coupled to the mount. The motor is mechanically coupled to the wheels. The wheels urge the trailer along the support surface. A second actuator is coupled between the mount and the wheels. The second actuator steers the wheels. A control is coupled to the mount. The control is electrically coupled to the first actuator, the second actuator and the motor. The control may actuate and de-actuate the first and second actuators and the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Inventor: Eric Smith
  • Patent number: 9326901
    Abstract: A motor power device for wheelchairs of disabled users is removably mounted on the front of the wheelchair-in order to be controlled by the user while sitting on the wheelchair. The device has a motor unit provided with an electrical motor, an intermediate frame disposed between the motor unit and the wheelchair, first inclination adjusting means between the motor unit and the intermediate frame and second inclination adjusting means between the intermediate frame and a bearing frame of the wheelchair. The intermediate frame and the motor unit are mounted and dismounted easily and rapidly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Inventor: Giovanni Conte
  • Patent number: 9302543
    Abstract: A trolley for use in a cable lift having a mast with a generally rectangular hollow cavity forming a track in which the trolley may be reciprocated upwardly and downwardly. The trolley is connected to a cradle outside the mast upon which an object to be lifted may be placed. The trolley has trolley wheels which make rolling contact with a front and back side of the track to resist a forward bending moment in down direction on the cradle. The trolley has spacer wheels which make rolling contact with a right and left sides of the track to resist a lateral bending moment on the cradle such that the cradle may be mounted on the mast offset from centerline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventors: Peter J. Pierce, Paul J. Altnether
  • Patent number: 8910954
    Abstract: A height adjuster may be provided. The height adjuster may comprise a hydraulic lift cylinder and a ram configured to receive the hydraulic lift cylinder. The height adjuster may further comprise a wheel motor housing connected to a lower end of the ram. A lower end of the hydraulic lift cylinder may be connected to the wheel housing. In addition, the height adjuster may comprise a king-pin configured to receive the ram.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Crowley, Nathan Low, John Buschena
  • Publication number: 20140311825
    Abstract: A self-propel accessory provides an easily attachable optional drive function for a platform device. The platform device is supported by a device frame including a wheel at a rear end and a post at a front end. The self-propel accessory includes an accessory frame attachable to the device frame via a bracket, a driving wheel connected to the accessory frame, a motor operatively coupled with the driving wheel, and a handle connected to the accessory frame. The accessory frame is pivotable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, and a weight of the platform device biases the accessory frame toward the disengaged position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: JLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason James Watson, Geoffrey George Campbell
  • Patent number: 8720616
    Abstract: A wheeled object or vehicle, such as a hospital bed (10) comprises a main chassis or frame (12) supported by a plurality of supporting wheels or rollers (11), which define the vertices of a polygonal supporting surface (21). The bed, which is usually moved by a walking person, is provided with at least one motor driven driving device (15), including at least one driving wheel or roller (18), positioned within said polygonal supporting surface. The driving device is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (14) in relation to the chassis or frame so as to change the angular position of the driving wheel (18) in relation to the chassis or frame. Biasing means, such as a compression spring or a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder (22, 34) is provided for biasing the driving device (15) in a direction away from the main chassis or frame (12) and towards the supporting surface (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Borringia Industrie AG
    Inventors: Henrik Nøhr Kofoed, Mogens Ilsted Bech, Kristina Nielsen, Jesper Moe Jensen, Amir Shahar, Lars Thøgersen, Christian Ruegaard Hansen
  • Patent number: 8684113
    Abstract: A device for adapting a manual wheelchair to drive with a powered wheel is disclosed. The device attached to the wheelchair provides means for raising the wheelchair front caster wheels and simultaneously having the powered wheel contact the driving surface. The disclosed device may be rotated so that the powered wheel lifts from the surface as the front caster wheels are lowered to contact the driving surface enabling manual operation of the wheelchair. The disclosed device includes a mechanism for steering the powered wheel, controls for varying the forward or backward speeds and braking. The device may be detached from the chair and is adaptable to fit a large variety of wheelchairs with capability for ergonomically adjusting the steering column for the comfort of the user. Optional human interface devices may be incorporated so the chair occupant may control speed and steering by operating a joystick, head array or other such devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory Edward Laconis
  • Patent number: 8561734
    Abstract: A car having a rotatable wheel, the car being able to run by rotating the wheel, the car having a leg used by the car for walking, and an attitude stabilization section for stabilizing an attitude of the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Chiba Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Takayuki Furuta, Masaharu Shimizu, Hideaki Yamato, Yu Okumura, Tetsuo Tawara, Masaki Shimomura, Ken Endo
  • Patent number: 8333257
    Abstract: Systems and methods for moving objects facilitate quick and inexpensive relocation of the target objects. Operator safety is enhanced by eliminating the need to apply manual force to urge a target object into motion, and by inclusion of features such as automatic braking responsive to motor cut-off. Through use of the present system, a user may move a target object, for example a trailer intended for use behind a vehicle, into and/or out of a storage location in a simplified and more efficient manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: James A. Bonnardel
  • Publication number: 20120269606
    Abstract: A pallet jack power assembly upgrades a manually powered pallet jack to provide a motor-driven drive wheel. In one example, the manually powered pallet jack includes left and right steering wheels separated by a narrow distance. A frame of the pallet jack power assembly may be adapted for attachment to the pallet jack. The frame supports a drive axle, which in turn supports a drive wheel. Attachment of the frame of the pallet jack power assembly locates the drive wheel between the left and right steering wheels. The drive axle and a steering axle, supporting the left and right steering wheels of the pallet jack, may be located in a same vertical plane. A biasing device, such as a spring, may be used to provide a downward force on the drive wheel, thereby increasing friction between the drive wheel and the floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory James Newell
  • Patent number: 8267206
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
  • Patent number: 8051931
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
  • Patent number: 7997361
    Abstract: A reverse drive mechanism is configured to rotate at least one wheel of a multi-wheeled device in a reverse direction so that the device moves in that reverse direction. One particular application involves a motorcycle conversion assembly in which at least one of the rear wheels of the conversion assembly is driven in the reverse direction so as to back-up the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: David Anthony Bell, LaNell Easley Bell
  • Patent number: 7976049
    Abstract: An assembly and positioning mechanism for wheelchair and auxiliary operating lever. The assembly and positioning mechanism has a swinging angular adjustment seat and a liftable pivoting seat of operating lever. The angular adjustment seat has an assembly side of locating rack and an assembly side of pivoting seat. The assembly side of locating rack is pivoted onto the locating rack via an adjuster, and the angular adjustment seat can swing rotarily. The pivoting seat of operating lever consists of a connecting side and a mating side of operating lever. The pivoting seat of operating lever can move vertically via a limiting portion. The mating side of operating lever is fitted with a limiting rabbet and a guide opening extended in an outward-dipping state. The mechanism can swing and also shift vertically, making it possible to control the guide opening of the mating side of operating lever for outward-dipping extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Wu's Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Liang Chiu
  • Patent number: 7900734
    Abstract: A rider lift truck with a drive portion, in which is arranged a travelling drive featuring at least one electric travelling motor for at least one steered driving wheel, with a steering device for the driving wheel, a load portion featuring a mast, an electric control unit for the travelling drive and operational controls for the travelling drive and the steering device and with a standing platform, wherein a horizontally arranged travelling motor is provided below the flatly built standing platform as a wheel hub drive for the driving wheel, and a steering motor is arranged below the standing platform alongside to the travelling motor, which is coupled with a fifth wheel for the driving wheel via a steering gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Andreas Knie, Ernst-Peter Magens, Frank Maenken, Christoph Weber
  • Publication number: 20110017526
    Abstract: Systems and methods for moving objects facilitate quick and inexpensive relocation of the target objects. Operator safety is enhanced by eliminating the need to apply manual force to urge a target object into motion, and by inclusion of features such as automatic braking responsive to motor cut-off. Through use of the present system, a user may move a target object, for example a trailer intended for use behind a vehicle, into and/or out of a storage location in a simplified and more efficient manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: James A. Bonnardel
  • Patent number: 7854280
    Abstract: A preassembly unit for the drive of an industrial truck, with a fifth wheel on which the driving wheel is rotatably mounted around a horizontal axis and which on its part is rotatably mounted in a bearing member around a vertical axis, a drive motor arranged on the fifth wheel, which is coupled with a driving shaft of the driving wheel via a gearbox, optionally a steering motor on the bearing member in order to turn the fifth wheel in the bearing member around the vertical axis, a parallel rod assembly between the bearing member and a frame of the industrial truck, which permits an essentially vertical movement of the preassembly unit in relation to the frame, and a spring arrangement between the bearing member and a frame-fixed section, wherein at least one upper drag rod of the parallel rod assembly is articulated on the lower end of a separate attachment section, which forms an interface with a counter-attachment position on the frame by attachment positions, and that at least one spring acts between a sho
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Jungheinrich Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Marcel Krenzin, Helmut Lohmann, Ulf Schipper
  • Patent number: 7828092
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support. The traction device includes a storage position and a use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
  • Publication number: 20100241298
    Abstract: A self contained electric powered out drive system that can be charged overnight by means of a standard 120 volt AC wall outlet. The electric powered out drive system is capable of being attached to the rear of any motor vehicle by means of a standard trailer hitch receiver. The self contained electric drive system assists in propelling a motor vehicle under predetermined driving conditions which will greatly improve a motor vehicles fuel economy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventors: Raymond Anthony Sinke, Chad Anthony Sinke
  • Patent number: 7784572
    Abstract: A drive unit (1) for an industrial truck comprises a drive motor (2), an electronic steering mechanism (3) being arranged at the periphery thereof. In this way, the drive unit (1) is configured such that it is simpler to assemble and more reliable to operate due to less wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Dirk Bald, Matthias Habel, Peter Streipardt