Abstract: A handle for a shower valve has a fixed portion having a first bearing surface and a movable portion having a second bearing surface. A spring biases the first and second surfaces into engagement. The fixed portion includes a chassis that is threadedly attached to a valve body. The chassis mounts an interchangeable lower shell that has a decorative finish or shape. Rotation of the lower shell causes rotation of the chassis for installation or removal of the handle on the valve body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a seat cushion assembly for use, in particular, in a wheelchair. The assembly includes a sculpted or molded foam base having exterior sidewalls profiled to accommodate a wheelchair frame, and a seating surface to provide some positioning support to the occupant. Further, the base includes a well area to be positioned under the ischial tuberosities of the occupant and including means for the removable attachment of a flexible envelope containing a fluid filling material. The envelope is comprised of upper and lower elastomeric sheet materials sealed about the perimeter. It is divided by internal seal sections so as to inhibit fluid migration within the envelope. These internal seals define a tapering flow orifice which provide for gradual restriction of a flow channel to permit flow so as to avoid failure inhibiting fluid migration.

Abstract: A polyurethane foam wheelchair cushion comprises first, second, third and fourth elements. The first element extends across the front portion of the cushion and is made of a relatively stiff foam. The second element is centered near the back portion of the cushion and is made of a foam with a lower stiffness than the first element. Third and fourth elements are on either side of the second element and are made of a foam having an intermediate stiffness between the first element and the second element. Transition surfaces between the second and third and fourth elements are angled relative to a vertical plane. Such an angled transition surface provides a gradual change in stiffness in the vertical direction between materials of different stiffnesses. The top surface of the first element is oriented relative to the second element so that the user's ischial tuberosities will be located approximately 1.5 inches lower than the back surface of the user's thighs when the user is sitting in the wheelchair cushion.

Abstract: A seat cushion for use in a wheelchair comprises a shaped tray and a filled envelope. The envelope is filled with a fluid like material which is flowably displaceable under the weight of a user. The shaped tray comprises a recess for receiving the buttocks region of the user as well as a front edge over which the legs of the user extend. A back wedge is mounted along a back edge of the tray and keeps the filled envelope from sliding over the back edge of the tray. Further, side wings located at the sides of the shaped tray near its front edge help constrain the legs of the wheelchair user in a generally forward direction within the width of the wheelchair seat. Side wedges mounted on the underside of the seat are selectively removable to accommodate the presence of a cross brace mechanism, as is commonly used in drop seat wheelchairs.