Abstract: An automatically engageable and releasable brake apparatus adaptable to be attached to a wheelchair is provided, including a connection mechanism adapted to be positioned on a rear frame portion of the wheelchair frame, a seat actuation member adapted to be positioned on the wheelchair seat, a brake actuating member coupled to the connection mechanism and in fluid communication with the seat actuation member defining a closed fluid system therewith, and a brake member coupled to the brake actuating member and adapted to contact a ground surface on which the wheelchair is located. Occupational ingress into the wheelchair causes fluid to flow from the seat actuation member to the brake actuating member, which causes the brake member to move from a first position in substantial contact with the ground surface on which the wheelchair is located to a second position spaced a distance above the ground surface.

Abstract: An automatically engageable and releasable brake apparatus for a wheelchair, including a connection mechanism adapted to be attached to a portion of the frame of the wheelchair proximate a rear wheel of the wheelchair, a seat actuation member extending from a portion of the connection mechanism and adapted to be positioned substantially beneath the seat of the wheelchair, a shaft member positioned to extend substantially downwardly from a portion of the connection mechanism and a friction member positioned proximate the other end of the shaft member and adapted to contact the ground. Occupational ingress activates the seat actuation member to move from a first position to a second position, which causes the shaft member to rotate in concert therewith such that the friction member also moves from a first position in substantial contact with the ground to a second position spaced a distance above the ground.

Abstract: An automatically engageable and releasable brake apparatus for a wheelchair, including a connection mechanism adapted to be attached to a portion of the frame of the wheelchair proximate a rear wheel of the wheelchair, a seat actuation member extending from a portion of the connection mechanism and adapted to be positioned substantially beneath the seat of the wheelchair, a shaft member positioned to extend substantially downwardly from a portion of the connection mechanism and a friction member positioned proximate the other end of the shaft member and adapted to contact the ground. Occupational ingress activates the seat actuation member to move from a first position to a second position, which causes the shaft member to rotate in concert therewith such that the friction member also moves from a first position in substantial contact with the ground to a second position spaced a distance above the ground.