Motorized Wheelchairs Patents (Class 180/907)
  • Patent number: 8079432
    Abstract: Configurations are provided for vehicular robots or other vehicles to provide shifting of their centers of gravity for enhanced obstacle navigation. Various head and neck morphologies are provided to allow positioning for various poses such as a stowed pose, observation poses, and inspection poses. Neck extension and actuator module designs are provided to implement various head and neck morphologies. Robot control network circuitry is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy R. Ohm, Michael Bassett
  • Patent number: 8078365
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control system for controlling a wheelchair having movable parts. The control system comprises a controller and a number of actuators for effectuating movements of the movable parts. The controller comprises a mathematical model of the kinematics of the movable parts and their respective at least one actuator, means for receiving an input signal from one or more of the actuators, and means for setting, based on the mathematical model, limiting positions of the actuators in response to the determined input signal. The invention also relates to a corresponding wheelchair and method of controlling a wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Permobil AB
    Inventor: Patrik Emilsson
  • Patent number: 8037953
    Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of from wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The wheelchair seat can be moved forward to provide access to the batteries without fully removing the wheelchair from the frame. Or the wheelchair may provide side access to the batteries and the wheelchair may be fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: John Puskar-Pasewicz, Kip D. Alder, Philip Hau Leung Lam
  • Patent number: 8002300
    Abstract: A rear wheel mounting assembly for a wheelchair having a frame with upper and lower longitudinal members vertically spaced from one another and disposed along the same side of the frame. The rear wheel mounting assembly includes an elongated upright member with a plurality of spaced apart recesses arranged longitudinally along an inward face. The elongated upright member includes a clamp disposed at each of its ends. One of the clamps is clamped to the upper longitudinal frame member and the other to the lower longitudinal frame member. The rear wheel mounting assembly includes a camber clamping assembly having an aperture for receiving and retaining an axle of a rear wheel and a removable clamp having a clamping surface engaged with a portion of the elongated upright member. The clamping surface comprises a projection received within one of the recesses of the elongated upright member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: TiSport, LLC
    Inventors: Alan N. Ludovici, David V. Berriochoa
  • Patent number: 7974753
    Abstract: A direction and speed control device for an electronic wheelchair includes: a base member mounted on the electronic wheelchair; a manually operable pointing unit mounted on the base member and including a control stick pivotable relative to the base member; first and second three-axis g acceleration sensors, each generating a voltage output indicative of tilt of a respective one of the control stick and the base member in three orthogonal axes; and a control unit operable so as to process the voltage outputs of the first and second three-axis g acceleration sensors to generate corresponding control signals for controlling rotation direction and speed of a wheel unit of the electronic wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yang-Chi Kuo, Shih-Chia Hsieh, Ying-Da Wu, Shih-Wang Tu
  • Patent number: 7942445
    Abstract: A personal ability vehicle (PMV) includes a frame with front and rear subframes. A steering mechanism is mounted on the front subframe and includes a steering front wheel connected to a tiller. The rear subframe includes a suspension mount comprising a pair of rear support legs. An anti-tip suspension includes a pair of trailing arms each mounting a trailing wheel. Each trailing arm is pivotally mounted on a respective support leg whereby the suspension is inevitable through a limited range of motion about a transverse suspension pivotal axis. A pair of spring assemblies are attached to the trailing arms and are adapted for selectively engaging the support legs to provide a counter-rotational torque force around the suspension pivotal axis in order to resist backwards tipping of the PMV, for example, when it is ascending an inclined sloping surface. Relatively uniform proportional, weight distribution on said steering front, main and trailing wheels is maintained throughout a range of loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Burke, Inc.
    Inventors: DuWayne E. Kramer, Jr., Brian W. Mellies
  • Patent number: 7931300
    Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
  • Patent number: 7921953
    Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising an open frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and a side structure. The side structure has an upper rail and a lower rail coupleable to the front structure and the rear structure. In one embodiment, a main mobility wheel is coupled to the side structure, and a knee rest is rotatably coupled to the front structure. The knee rest is adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position coupled to the front structure to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position from the front structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: James Graham Irvine
  • Patent number: 7921954
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile vehicle or wheelchair having the ability to provide stabilized transport to at least one individual on a variety of surfaces, slopes and/or terrains. In one aspect, the invention provides adjustment features allowing the mobile vehicle or wheelchair to accommodate individuals of various sizes and shapes. For example, the invention comprises a seat and an adjustable footrest which can be lengthened or shortened to accommodate different size individuals, including children. In one embodiment the distance between the footrest and the seat can be increased or decreased to accommodate different leg lengths of different individuals. The mobile unit or wheelchair of the invention may travel across smooth and very rough surfaces, slopes of varying or different angles and various outdoor terrains (including grassy, rocky, sandy, muddy and/or hilly terrains).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Life Changing Chair, LLC
    Inventors: Charles E. Johnson, Phillip N. Brown, Jim Penson
  • Patent number: 7905306
    Abstract: A system for assisting a person of limited mobility in moving from room to room within a home and performing essential daily activities includes a personal mobility device which includes transfer drivers which engage a transfer system to transition from a first elevation to a second elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Kramer, Marshall S. Dahneke, Reed N. Wilcox, Franz R. Gaag, David T. Schwanemann, Rainer B. Teufel, Peter A. Koloski, Thornton K. Lothrop, Ryan R. Berger
  • Patent number: 7886855
    Abstract: An electric walk-substituting vehicle includes a chassis, a seat assembly pivoted on upper ends of the connecting rods, a pivotal steering mechanism, and a folding and fixing device, which will fix the connecting rods after the seat assembly is moved to either of raised in-use and lowered not-in-use positions; the seat assembly includes connecting rods pivoted on the chassis; the folding and fixing device includes two position-limiting plates, which are secured on the connecting rods to pivot together with the connecting rods; the position-limiting plates each have first and second holes; the folding and fixing device includes a pressing and moving mechanism with two insertion rods; the insertion rods will pass into the first holes to engage the position-limiting plates after the connecting rods are pivoted to the raised in-use position; the insertion rods will pass into the second holes after the connecting rods are pivoted to the not-in-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Arthur Wang
  • Patent number: 7886854
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wheelchair structure, which is available with a handle, seat and wheel body. The handle is provided with an integrated control seat, and the wheel body is provided with auxiliary drive unit and combined positioning member. The integrated control seat can be assembled securely onto the wheelchair handles of different diameters and curvatures, and the swinging angle can be adjusted flexibly. Thus, it is possible to guarantee outstanding adaptability of assembly, efficient and convenient operation with improved applicability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Wu's Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Liang Chiu
  • Patent number: 7882909
    Abstract: A personal vehicle comprises a frame with a seat, two large, non-drive wheels connected by an axle at one end of the frame, an elongated swing arm attached to the axle, a pair of caster wheels connected to the frame opposite the large, non-drive wheels and a main drive wheel mounted to a fork and connected to the swing arm. The main drive wheel is located central the vehicle frame, intermediate the frame sides and intermediate frame front and rear sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh
    Inventors: Jonathan L. Pearlman, Rory Cooper
  • Patent number: 7874388
    Abstract: A mini-type electric vehicle, which is mainly used for individual transportation and includes a frame, a seat, front and rear wheels, a driving device, a battery, a steering system and a front wheel suspension device. A casing in which the battery is placed is provided forward in the middle position of the front end of the frame. The suspension device for front wheels has a front convex shape and a rear concave shape and covers the front end of the casing, and pivots to the middle of the front end of the casing. Two front wheels are installed on the front wheel suspension device. The rear edge line of the two front wheels is located at the rear of the battery front edge. The steering system is connected to the front end of the frame and interlocks with the front wheels. The battery is installed at the front so as to balance the weight distribution, improve the driving safety, comfort and steering performance for electric vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Letrix Power Hangzhou Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Scott Ranger
  • Patent number: 7828310
    Abstract: A chassis structure for a mid-wheel drive power wheelchair includes a pair of restricting racks each having a first restricting plate and a second restricting plate. Each restricting plate has a slot at a central portion thereof. A first fixing member is inserted through one end of the first restricting plate and the slot of the second restricting plate, and a second fixing member is inserted through one end of the second restricting plate and the slot of the first restricting plate, so that the two restricting plates overlap to extend and restrict with each other for maintaining a steady and balancing ride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Karma Medical Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wilhelmus Hendrikus Johannes Adriana Vreeswijk, Lawrence William Anthony Roycroft
  • Patent number: 7789174
    Abstract: A transporter for transporting a subject over a surface that may be irregular. The transporter includes a support platform for supporting a load, the loaded support platform defining fore-aft and lateral planes and characterized by a load distribution. A plurality of ground contacting elements are coupled to the support platform such that the transporter is statically stable with respect to tipping in the fore-aft plane. At least one of the plurality of ground contacting elements is driven by a motorized drive arrangement. A sensor module generates a signal indicative of the local distribution. Based at least on the load distribution, a controller commands the motorized drive arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, Richard Kurt Heinzmann, John David Heinzmann, Robert R. Ambrogi, Christopher C. Langenfeld, J. Douglas Field
  • Patent number: 7784569
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a barrier-overpassing transporter, which comprises: a support frame carrying a rider or another load; a sensing/adjusting module detecting a tilting state of the support frame and maintaining the support frame in a horizontal state; a ground contact module arranged below the support frame supporting an effective load and lifting the support frame to overpass a surface of a barrier; and a wireless transceiver module collecting and transmitting information to enable adjustments and activities responding to interior states of the transporter. Thereby, the present invention can provide a safe, stable, reliable, comfortable, convenient and low-cost barrier-overpassing transporter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventors: Pi-Ying Cheng, Fang-Fu Guo, Kian-Poh Wong, I-Chung Lin, Yu-Hsien Lee
  • Patent number: 7775307
    Abstract: A power wheelchair includes a frame, on which a pair of front wheel sets, a pair of middle wheel sets, a pair of rear wheel sets and a pair of elastic devices are provided. Each of the front wheel sets includes a front wheel mount having a first connection portion pivoted to the frame, and a second connection portion connected to a front wheel. Each of the middle wheel sets includes a middle wheel mount having a first connection portion pivoted on the frame, and a second connection portion, connected to a middle wheel. The elastic device are provided between the front wheel mounts and the middle wheel mounts respectively to cushion a swing of the front wheel set and the middle wheel set relative to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Merite Health Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Chuan Cheng
  • Patent number: 7770674
    Abstract: A system for providing an automated axial force to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in a wheelchair. An electronic transmission control receives one or more input signals generated by throttle position or other variables. The microprocessor generates an output signal that adjusts the axial force applied to a CVT thereby automatically adjusting the input to output ratio. The invention also provides a manually-controlled variator is designed for use on a wheelchair. The manual shifter hydraulically adjusts an axial force imparted on a variator in communication with a wheelchair wheel and a hand rim. Application of the axial force causes the hand rim input and wheelchair wheel output ratio to change, permitting a wheelchair operator to manually adjust the input to output ratio to more easily operate the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Fallbrook Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David Michael Miles, Todd Russell Peters
  • Patent number: 7766106
    Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The wheelchair seat can be moved forward to provide access to the batteries without fully removing the wheelchair from the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: John Puskar-Pasewicz, Kip D. Alder
  • Patent number: 7735591
    Abstract: A powered wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The rear wheels are part of an articulating beam assembly and are positioned to provide access to the batteries from the rear of the wheelchair with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: John Puskar-Pasewicz, Christopher Grymko
  • Publication number: 20100138128
    Abstract: A motorized wheelchair includes left and right drive wheels, left and right motors, rate-of-turn sensor, first and second speed sensors, and controller arranged to combine signals from the sensors in a manner that detects drift. Alternatively, the motorized wheelchair includes left and right drive wheels, left and right motors, first and second rate-of-turn sensors, and controller arranged to combine signals from the sensors in a manner that compensates for voltage offset errors. In another arrangement, the motorized wheelchair includes left and right drive wheels, left and right motors, first and second rate-of-turn sensors, input device, and controller arranged to combine signals from the sensors and input device in a manner that controls the motors using an integrated turn rate error. Several methods for controlling each wheelchair configuration are also provided. These methods process signals associated with desired, expected, or actual turn rate to determine if the wheelchair is off course.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas Strothmann, Joseph B. Richey
  • Patent number: 7726689
    Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: James P. Mulhern, Ronald Levi, Christopher E. Grymko
  • Patent number: 7699131
    Abstract: An electric wheelchair comprises: a chair assembly and a wheel assembly. The wheel assembly is mounted at the bottom of the chair assembly. The chair assembly includes a seat, a first frame, a second frame, and a third frame, which are pivotally connected to form a four-bar linkage mechanism, so that the seat and the respective frames of the electric wheelchair will be folded synchronously in the same direction when the electric wheelchair is being folded, and the folding direction of the chair assembly is vertical to the axis of the drive wheels of the wheel assembly, thus allowing the disabled user to fold the chair assembly and to disassemble the wheel assembly quickly and effortlessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Pihsiang Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Donald P. H. Wu
  • Patent number: 7686145
    Abstract: A drive device for electric vehicles comprises a casing 30, a motor 40 housed in the casing and having a rotating shaft 42, a housing 50 rotatably fitted around the casing and coupled to the outer end of the rotating shaft of the motor by a reduction gear mechanism 48, a drive wheel 80 provided around the housing and an electromagnetic brake 60 for arresting the rotation of the rotating shaft of the motor at the base end of the shaft. The rotating shaft of the motor is engaged with or disengaged from the electromagnetic brake by a clutch mechanism 70 provided between the shaft and the brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayoshi Akagi, Takuya Noro, Kazuhiro Tomoshige, Satoshi Komukai
  • Patent number: 7673715
    Abstract: A geared motor for driving an electric wheelchair, which can realize features such as light weight, compact size, low noise, and low vibration at the same time, as well as high performance at low cost. In a driving device of an electric wheelchair for driving a wheel shaft by the power of a motor, the motor is disposed in such a manner that a motor shaft thereof is orthogonal to the wheel shaft. A hypoid speed reduction mechanism having a hypoid pinion and a hypoid gear intervenes between the motor shaft and the wheel shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuo Takechi
  • Patent number: 7661696
    Abstract: A wheeled chair for assisting a user in changing a disposition. The chair comprises: a base member, a substantially planar seat member, a leg bracing member, a back bracing member, a bracing motor, and an actuator module. The base member includes a plurality of wheels and a lift device. The seat member is oriented substantially orthogonal to the direction of motion of the lift device. The leg bracing member includes a first mode wherein it extends downwardly from the seat member and a second mode wherein it extends substantially collinearly from the seat member. The back bracing member includes a first mode wherein it extends upwardly from the seat member and a second mode wherein it extends substantially collinearly from the seat member. The bracing motor changes between the two modes. The lift device includes a lift device motor. The actuator module activates the bracing and lift device motors simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Revolutionary Wheelchair, Inc.
    Inventor: Alex Acebo
  • Patent number: 7654348
    Abstract: Configurations are provided for vehicular robots or other vehicles to provide shifting of their centers of gravity for enhanced obstacle navigation. Various head and neck morphologies are provided to allow positioning for various poses such as a stowed pose, observation poses, and inspection poses. Neck extension and actuator module designs are provided to implement various head and neck morphologies. Robot control network circuitry is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy R. Ohm, Michael Bassett
  • Patent number: 7648156
    Abstract: A dual mode wheelchair (300) providing both a maneuverable indoor mode and a travel mode. The wheelchair (300) comprises fore wheels (104) mounted on a fore axis (105) and rear wheels (102) mounted on a rear axis (103). A distance between the fore axis (105) and the rear axis (103) defines a wheelbase of the wheelchair (300). The wheelbase is alterable between a short wheelbase providing a maneuverable mode of the wheelchair (300) and a long wheelbase providing a travel mode of the wheelchair (300). The wheelchair (300) further provides a lowered center of gravity and a reclining position in the travel mode to provide improved stability and occupant security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Johanson Nominees Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Colin Johanson
  • Patent number: 7641217
    Abstract: A detachable mobile seat includes a first part connected to a motor; a second part attached to the seat; and two links, each connected to the first part, the second part, and a wheel. The links transfer movement of the first part to the wheels. The first part includes a shaft connected to the motor, and two nuts disposed around the shaft that have screw threads in opposite directions and move along the shaft in response to operation of the motor. Each link includes a first link connected to the second part and to the nut, and a second link connected to the nut and to the wheel. The end of each second link that is nearest the wheel is rotatably connected to a connecting arm that has a rotating bar that rotates the wheel in response to operation of the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Yeon Sang Yoo, Ju Young Lee
  • Patent number: 7624826
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a kind of portable power-saving and foldable electric wheel chair, characterized in that there is a hand control direction device on the left elbow 10 to control the specific running direction of the electric wheel chair; the left and right rear wheels 3 are integrated with the motors 30 respectively, so as the two motors 30 can directly drive the two rear wheels; two disc brakes 20 are installed on the left and right rear wheels 3, the two disc brakes are connected to the brake handle 15 via the main steel string 24, by means of a single hand press brake handle 15, the two rear wheels 3 braked simultaneously; switches 18 for positive or inversion running control the main running direction of electric wheel chair; an intellectual control rod may also be installed on the right elbow 12 to replace the speed-adjusting turning handle 14 and switches 18 for positive or inversion running.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Tianyun Zhao
  • Patent number: 7597163
    Abstract: A wheelchair suspension is provided. The wheelchair suspension includes a frame, a pivot arm, a front caster, a drive assembly, and a rear caster. The pivot arm is pivotally coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. Movement of the drive assembly in a first direction causes the pivot arm to substantially remain in a first position. Movement of the drive assembly in a second direction urges the pivot arm away from the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Gerold Goertzen, William A. Null, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7581604
    Abstract: A motorized wheelchair having transmission rollers to transmit the rotation of rear wheels to front wheels while being disposed at a transmission position between circumferential surfaces of front and rear wheels, a roller supporting arm for rotatably and oscillatingly supporting the transmission rollers in the front-rear direction of the wheelchair, and transmission roller pressure-contact springs for urging the roller supporting arm in a direction of the transmission position. An operation lever constrains the roller supporting arm in an interlocking manner in the direction away from the transmission position when being at the regular position, and releases the constrains when the operation lever being at the working position so as to allow the transmission rollers to be disposed at the transmission position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Kanto Auo Works, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideki Torita
  • Patent number: 7562903
    Abstract: A personal ability vehicle (PMV) includes a frame with front and rear subframes. A steering mechanism is mounted on the front subframe and includes a steering front wheel connected to a tiller. The rear subframe includes a suspension mount comprising a pair of rear support legs. An anti-tip suspension includes a pair of trailing arms each mounting a trailing wheel. Each trailing arm is pivotally mounted on a respective support leg whereby the suspension is inevitable through a limited range of motion about a transverse suspension pivotal axis. A pair of spring assemblies are attached to the trailing arms and are adapted for selectively engaging the support legs to provide a counter-rotational torque force around the suspension pivotal axis in order to resist backwards tipping of the PMV, for example, when it is ascending an inclined sloping surface. Relatively uniform proportional, weight distribution on said steering front, main and trailing wheels is maintained throughout a range of loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Burke, Inc.
    Inventors: DuWayne E. Kramer, Jr., Brian W. Mellies
  • Patent number: 7562728
    Abstract: An apparatus for urging a person of limited physical ability from a first location to a second location includes a self-propelled type of wheelchair that has two driven wheels disposed under the chair. A pair of preferably front-disposed castors is included. Together, the pair of castors and the two driven wheels define a first plane that the wheelchair is disposed on when the wheelchair is on a level surface. A pair of additional driven wheels is provided that are elevated with respect to the first plane. The additional driven wheels can be disposed either in front of or behind the two driven wheels. Together, the two driven wheels and the pair of additional driven wheels define a second plane. When the wheelchair is disposed along a sufficient incline, it tilts from the first plane into the second plane. At that time, contact with the surface is made by the pair of additional driven wheels, whereby the pair of additional driven wheels provides an additional motive force to help propel the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Allan Alfred Voigt
  • Patent number: 7556109
    Abstract: An electric wheelchair suspension includes a supporting frame unit and two linkages. The supporting frame unit includes a bottom frame, two posts, and two main rods. Each of the linkages includes an upper link, a lower link, a front caster rod, a bottom link, and a rear link. The upper links are connected respectively and pivotally to the main rods. The lower links are connected respectively and pivotally to the posts. Each of the front caster rods is connected pivotally to the upper and lower links of a corresponding one of the linkages. The bottom links are connected pivotally to the bottom frame. Each of the rear links is connected pivotally to a corresponding one of the upper links and a corresponding one of the bottom links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yung-Hsin Chen, Yung-Yuan Liao
  • Patent number: 7537069
    Abstract: A system for assisting a person of limited mobility in moving from room to room within a home and performing essential daily activities includes a personal mobility device which includes transfer drivers which engage a transfer system to transition from a first elevation to a second elevation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Kramer, Marshall S. Dahneke, Reed N. Wilcox, Franz R. Gaag, David T. Schwanemann, Rainer B. Teufel, Peter A. Koloski, Thornton K. Lothrop, Ryan R. Berger
  • Publication number: 20090099997
    Abstract: Control devices and kits of components of control devices are provided. The subject invention also provides systems for designing control devices and/or kits of components of control devices. A system user can provide data about an end user to an expert system via a user interface, and the expert system can use the data and a method for selecting appropriate components to design a control device and/or kit. The control device can be a self-referenced control device and can include a controller and a wearable interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Sandra L. Hubbard, Michael Rosen
  • Patent number: 7516984
    Abstract: A jointed mechanism of an electric wheelchair is disclosed. The jointed mechanism includes symmetrically arranged front caster assemblies, symmetrically arranged rear caster assemblies, drive wheel assemblies, and a main chassis assembly. The front caster assemblies are bushed to the main chassis assembly and the rear caster assemblies respectively. The rear caster assemblies are fixed to the drive wheel assemblies by pivot arm plate assemblies and bushed to the main chassis assembly and the rear caster assemblies to construct a four-bar linkage, which allows the electric wheelchair to always have contact with the ground with all wheels and to adjust the center of gravity to maintain balance automatically, even when the electric wheelchair is climbing a slope or moving on an uneven surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Chenghui Tang
  • Patent number: 7510200
    Abstract: A wheelchair having a chassis formed from a flat plate folded to define a lower chassis, a chassis back, and an upper chassis. The lower and the upper chassis each have a pair of elongated substantially parallel arms that extend from respective land portions of the chassis. The arms define openings in distal portions for receiving caster wheels. Drive wheels connect to axle mounts that are selectively positioned for track, camber, and height, which axle mounts connect to the chassis back or to the lower chassis for stroller configuration. A seat support attaches to the upper chassis for supporting a person and includes independently adjustable height, longitudinal position relative to a seat back, and angle. A pair of push handles attach to the chassis back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: PlainSense Wheelchairs, Inc.
    Inventor: James B. Papac
  • Patent number: 7506709
    Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle (PMV) is provided having suspension assemblies located on lateral sides thereof. The suspension assemblies each include a main pivot arm having first and second main-arm-ends, an intermediate portion, and a first wheel connected to the first main-arm-end. The intermediate portion is pivotally connected to one of the lateral sides, with the first main-arm-end and first wheel extending in a first direction from the vehicle frame. A center drive wheel is located on the second main-arm-end of the main pivot arm. A wheel support arm having first and second support-arm-ends and a second wheel connected to the second support arm end is pivotally connected to one of the lateral sides. The first support-arm-end is slidably engaged with the main pivot arm, and the second support-arm-end and the second wheel extend in a second direction, generally opposite the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventors: Frederick Kiwak, Jonathan Jaffe, Chris McConnell
  • Patent number: 7484746
    Abstract: A wheeled conveyance comprising a chassis (4), support means for a load mounted on the chassis (4), a suspension assembly mounted on the chassis (4), and at least one shock absorber means (38) acting on at least part of the suspension assembly and adapted and arranged to limit tilting of the chassis (4) relative to at least part of the suspension assembly under dynamic load conditions tending to produce such tilting. The suspension assembly comprises spring means (32) and suspension arms pivotably mounted on the chassis (4) and extending in forward and rearward directions in the region of opposite sides of the chassis (4). Each suspension arm has a wheel (16, 26) rotatably mounted at the free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher James Mills
  • Patent number: 7472923
    Abstract: A cart has an assistant stand mechanism, which includes two first casters, a pair of metallic angle plates, a support rod, and a second caster with a brake; each of the first casters is fitted to one of two rear lateral straight parts of a chassis; the metallic angle plates are each screwed onto a respective one of the rear lateral straight parts of the chassis; the support rod is secured to the metallic angle plates at two ends such that it crosses the cart, and is normally perpendicular to the ground where the cart stands; the second caster is fitted to the support rod; further, there are two sloping rods, each connected to the support rod at one end, and connected to a corresponding metallic angle plate at the other end; thus, the cart can stand on the casters with the chassis in upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Freerider Corp.
    Inventor: Arthur Wang
  • Patent number: 7472767
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair suspension that includes a pivoting assembly. The pivoting assembly includes at least two linkages. The pivoting assembly is structured so that the drive assists the wheelchair in traversing obstacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventor: James H. Molnar
  • Publication number: 20090000835
    Abstract: A vehicle having a plurality of wheels and elements, to drive at least one wheel to propel the vehicle is provided with a frame and a power supply assembly for delivering power to the drive elements. The power supply assembly includes a battery and a housing structure surrounding the battery. The power supply assembly is removeably supported on the vehicle frame. A latching mechanism is provided having a pivoting actuator. The actuator moves between a locking position and a release position. The actuator movement displacing a pin disposed in combination with the housing between a locking position, wherein the pin fixedly engages the power supply assembly to the frame, and a release position, wherein the pin disengages and permits the power supply assembly to be removed from the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: COLBURN L. JONES, JAMES M. KOSCO, MARK A. GOODELL
  • Patent number: 7468592
    Abstract: An apparatus for moving the center of gravity of a robot, and a system and method using the apparatus are provided. The apparatus includes a weight conveyor with a conveyed weight weighing a predetermined amount and disposed within the main body of the robot. The conveyed weight is conveyed in a predetermined direction to move the center of gravity of the robot, thus allowing a non-driven caster of the robot to surmount obstacles in its path and not become stuck while the robot is moving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Insitute
    Inventors: Eul Gyoon Lim, Seung Min Choi, Dae Hwan Hwang
  • Patent number: 7451848
    Abstract: A foldable personal mobility vehicle is disclosed comprising first and second units having first and second wheels being rotatable about first and second axles. A drive unit rotates the second wheel for moving the foldable personal mobility vehicle. A pivot disposed substantially parallel to the first and second axles pivotably connects the first unit to the second unit for folding the personal mobility vehicle. The foldable personal mobility vehicle may include a folding unit for automatically folding the foldable personal mobility vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventors: Michael J. Flowers, George G. Flowers, Stephen Jarema, III, Edward J. Dwyer, Jr., Lee Volpe, Alex He, Robert C. Hopely, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7431121
    Abstract: A drive section of an industrial truck has a vehicle frame (1), a drive unit (4) having a steerable drive wheel, and at least one pivoting roller (5, 6) located at a lateral offset in relation to the drive wheel (4d). The vehicle frame (1), when viewed in the transverse direction of the drive section, has a first, centrally located mounting for the drive unit (4) and a second, laterally located mounting for the drive unit (4). Optionally, a drive unit (4) or a pivoting roller (5, 6) can be fastened to the mounting that is located to the side. The vehicle frame (1) has a mounting for a pivoting roller (5, 6) on the side opposite the lateral mounting for the drive unit (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Linde Material Handling GmbH
    Inventors: Eric Goguelet, Dominique Rousseau
  • Patent number: 7431109
    Abstract: A power supply assembly is provided for a vehicle, such as a Personalized Motorized Vehicle (PMV), including a detachable mounting assembly therefor which facilitates the ease of attachment of a Power Supply Unit (PSU) to a main structural frame of the vehicle, provides a positive electrical and structural connection therebetween, and integrates the power supply assembly with the external geometry of the vehicle to provide an aesthetically pleasing external appearance. The power supply assembly includes a pair of PSUs. A segment of one PSU unit overlaps a segment of another PSU unit and another segment of one PSU overlaps a portion of the main structural frame. Electrical connectors are disposed in combination with the overlapping housing segments for electrically coupling the PSUs and at least one PSU to the vehicle. The power supply, assembly, furthermore includes a retention subassembly for structurally connecting each PSU to the main structural frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Pride Mobility Products Corporation
    Inventors: Colburn L. Jones, James M. Kosco, Mark A. Goodell
  • Patent number: 7431110
    Abstract: A high-torque gear assembly for a personal mobility apparatus is disclosed generally comprising a shaft that drives a drive wheel of the personal mobility apparatus, a worm driven by a motor, and a worm wheel coupled to the shaft and driven by the worm, where both the worm wheel is a globoid gear and the worm is a globoid worm. In some embodiments, a gear train is coupled between a gear shaft and a drive wheel shaft for translating the rotational motion. In certain embodiments, the worm wheel and the worm have a gear ratio of at least 10:1, and the worm has a lead angle between twenty and thirty degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Hartford Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Greenwood, Benedict J. Aliano