Abstract: An adjustable lifting mechanism for use as or with a seating apparatus. The lifting mechanism has a base to which a pivot of a parallelogram structure is attached. A spring extends from a first link of the parallelogram to an adjustable termination point on a second link of the parallelogram to form a lifting triangle. A lifting power adjustment mechanism adjusts the position of the spring termination point with respect to the main pivot. An extension is in fixed relation to one of the four parallelogram links, and is configured to maintain its angle with respect to the horizontal when angles of the parallelogram are varied upon raising or lowering the lifting mechanism between a sitting mode and a standing mode. The extension thus serves as a base for a rear seat section.

Abstract: A dual-state caster apparatus having a caster head with a state-change pivot configured to change the steering axis of the caster apparatus. A braking system with a brake control cable is incorporated into the caster apparatus wherein the state-change pivot and the braking system are configured to allow a wheel to swivel without interference with the brake control cable.

Abstract: A foldable, elevating walker chair is disclosed having a height adjustment mechanism and a height limiter. The elevating walker chair has a unique lifting mechanism that allows the chair to be readily raised and lowered without motors. The weight of the elevating walker chair may be optimized by use of innovative bracing struts. The folding mechanism allows the elevating walker chair to achieve a compact configuration. Innovative components such as a swivel seat, hinges, seatbelt, telescoping wheel mounts, height adjustment devices and safety mechanisms may be included in the elevating walker chair.

Abstract: A convertible seat and an elevating walker chair having a convertible seat. The chair elevates by a parallelogram mechanism that can be functionally connected to a seat deployment mechanism to allow the seat to transform between a saddle and seat upon changes in saddle/seat elevation.

Abstract: A lifting mechanism has a base to which a pivot of a parallelogram structure. A spring extends from a first link of the parallelogram to an adjustable termination point on a second link of the parallelogram to form a lifting triangle. The spring termination point is displaced from a main pivot of the parallelogram to create an adjustable “lever arm” to vary the lifting force. A lifting power adjustment mechanism adjusts the position of the spring termination point. An extension is in fixed relation to one of the parallelogram links and maintains its angle with respect to the horizontal when angles of the parallelogram are varied upon raising or lowering the lifting mechanism between a sitting mode and a standing mode. The extension serves as a base for a rear seat section. A front seat section is pivotally attached to the rear seat section allowing it to swing downward upon elevation of the liftin mechanism.

Abstract: An elevating walker chair that allows both riding and walking. The chair elevates by a parallelogram power unit. The seat transforms between a saddle and seat upon changes in saddle/seat elevation. Also a lifting parallelogram power unit structure. Disclosed is an elevating walker chair for people with limited mobility resulting from compromised musculature, coordination or balance, or for able bodied individuals that must perform tasks for which assistance is desired.

Abstract: A dual-state caster apparatus having a caster head with a state-change pivot configured to change the steering axis of the caster apparatus. A braking system with a brake control cable is incorporated into the caster apparatus wherein the state-change pivot and the braking system are configured to allow a wheel to swivel without interference with the brake control cable.

Abstract: An elevating walker chair that allows both riding and walking. The chair elevates by a parallelogram power unit. The seat transforms between a saddle and seat upon changes in saddle/seat elevation. Also a lifting parallelogram power unit structure. Disclosed is an elevating walker chair for people with limited mobility resulting from compromised musculature, coordination or balance, or for able bodied individuals that must perform tasks for which assistance is desired.