Abstract: A cushion for seats, wheelchairs, mattresses, etc. is disclosed. The cushion includes fluid-filled cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with adjacent cells via conduits. Constrictures such as check-valves and duckbill valves may be located inside the conduits to restrict or otherwise regulate fluid flow into or out of a particular cell. A control pin may be used to selectively enable or disable said constrictures. In this way, the cushion may be customized on a cell-by-cell basis, providing a cushion that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Abstract: A cushion for seats, wheelchairs, mattresses, etc. is disclosed. The cushion includes fluid-filled cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with adjacent cells via conduits. Constrictures such as check-valves and duckbill valves may be located inside the conduits to restrict or otherwise regulate fluid flow into or out of a particular cell. A control pin may be used to selectively enable or disable said constrictures. In this way, the cushion may be customized on a cell-by-cell basis, providing a cushion that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Abstract: A cushion for seats, wheelchairs, mattresses, etc. is disclosed. The cushion includes fluid-filled cells. Each cell is in fluid communication with adjacent cells via conduits. Constrictures such as valves or constrictor clips may be applied to the conduits to restrict or otherwise regulate fluid flow into or out of a particular cell. In this way, the cushion may be customized on a cell-by-cell basis, providing a cushion that can be tailored to the individual needs of the patient.

Abstract: A steering mechanism for a wheelchair which minimizes the turning radius of the wheelchair providing good maneuverability while also minimizing the misalignment of each of the wheels. The steering mechanism substantially comprises a flat plate defining cam follower slots, two sliding members defining slots, four linkages which follow the path of the cam followers and are connected to the wheels, and a single actuator.

Abstract: A reusable die for the manufacture of molded seat cushions that includes a first device for forming a positive profile of a contoured surface, such as a seating support surface, from data obtained for defining the positive surface profile; and a second device for forming a negative profile of the contoured surface, whereby the first surface is adapted to be maintained in contact with the second surface. The first device includes a plurality of rods adapted to define the positive profile. The second device also includes a plurality of rods and a deformable member, such as a wire mesh, that coact with the rods of the first device to form the negative profile. The rods of both the first device and the second device are adapted to be locked in place. A sealing surface is vacuum formed over the negative profile, which then forms a wall of a foam mold. Liquid foam material is then injected in the mold and permitted to cure thereby forming a contoured seat cushion.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning and holding an individual in a prescription posture followed by a determination of the surface contour of the posterior trunk. The positioning utilizes an array of adjustable pads arranged in rows. The shape sensing is accomplished by tracing a transverse cross-section of the posterior half of the trunk, at serial increments along the vertical axis of the trunk. The tracing is based on angular orientation, linear displacement and vertical elevation of a sensor mounted on a radial arm.

Abstract: Apparatus for measuring and providing a two-dimensional representation of the contour of a person's thighs and buttocks or the dorsal and lateral surfaces of a person's trunk facilitates the fabrication of custom contoured seat cushions such as for use by wheelchair users. The apparatus includes a frame having a rectangular matrix of compressible, resilient support elements with a generally flat upper surface. Attached to the upper surface of each support element is one end of a flexible, incompressible cable which is inserted through a conduit with a 90.degree. bend for directing the cable toward and beyond a side of the frame. Second end portions of the cable and conduit combinations are in parallel, planar alignment. The cable is free to move within and along the length of the conduit such that downward displacement of the upper surface of a support element and first end of a cable coupled thereto causes the cable's second end to be moved outward from the frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for propelling a wheeled vehicle which has a hand-manipulated lever that is connected to a clutch assembly. The clutch assembly has a drum that is rotatably connected to the vehicle and brake bands that are pivotably connected to the lower end of the lever. An actuator rod connected to the lever causes inward movement of the bands to engage the clutch. Once engaged the vehicle can be propelled in which ever direction the lever is being rotated.