Abstract: A lighted vehicle access apparatus and method are disclosed, wherein one or more lights coupled to a movable platform are positioned to illuminate the platform. In some embodiments, the lights are in a fixed position with respect to the platform (and therefore movable with respect to the vehicle), while in other embodiments, the lights are movable with respect to the platform in movement of the platform between stowed and deployed positions and/or between raised and lowered positions with respect to the vehicle. The lights can be coupled to one or more arm assemblies of the vehicle access apparatus, to one or more handles of the vehicle access apparatus, or in other locations. Also, the lights can be electroluminescent light elements, bulbs, or other types of light-emitting devices.

Abstract: A cam-actuated locking system for the inboard barrier of a wheelchair lift is provided. The lift includes a linkage system having a push arm and a slide block. The push arm includes a sliding member with a first keyhole, and a fixed member with a second keyhole. A lock mechanism is pivotally coupled to the sliding member, and includes a keyhole insert. The second keyhole of the fixed member cooperates with the first keyhole and the lock mechanism so that when the keyhole insert of the lock mechanism inserts into the aligned keyholes of the fixed and sliding members, the inboard barrier is locked in a barrier position.

Abstract: A lighted vehicle access apparatus and method are disclosed, wherein one or more lights coupled to a movable platform are positioned to illuminate the platform. In some embodiments, the lights are in a fixed position with respect to the platform (and therefore movable with respect to the vehicle), while in other embodiments, the lights are movable with respect to the platform in movement of the platform between stowed and deployed positions and/or between raised and lowered positions with respect to the vehicle. The lights can be coupled to one or more arm assemblies of the vehicle access apparatus, to one or more handles of the vehicle access apparatus, or in other locations. Also, the lights can be electroluminescent light elements, bulbs, or other types of light-emitting devices.

Abstract: A cam-actuated locking system for the inboard barrier of a wheelchair lift is provided. The lift includes a linkage system having a push arm and a slide block. The push arm includes a sliding member with a first keyhole, and a fixed member with a second keyhole. A lock mechanism is pivotally coupled to the sliding member, and includes a keyhole insert. The second keyhole of the fixed member cooperates with the first keyhole and the lock mechanism so that when the keyhole insert of the lock mechanism inserts into the aligned keyholes of the fixed and sliding members, the inboard barrier is locked in a barrier position.

Abstract: A vehicle access system for moving a passenger between the vehicle and ground. Some embodiments have an electrical system, a motive source coupled to the electrical system, an arm coupled to the motive source, a platform coupled to the arm, and a safety restraint system coupled to the electrical system and the platform. The vehicle access system has at least a vehicle access position and a ground access position, wherein the passenger can safely access the platform at either access position. The platform is unable to move from either access position until the safety restraint system is in place. Once operation of the access system has begun, it can continue to operate and move the passenger to one of the access positions even if the safety restraint system is subsequently removed.

Abstract: A lighted vehicle access apparatus and method are disclosed, wherein one or more lights coupled to a movable platform are positioned to illuminate the platform. In some embodiments, the lights are in a fixed position with respect to the platform (and therefore movable with respect to the vehicle), while in other embodiments, the lights are movable with respect to the platform in movement of the platform between stowed and deployed positions and/or between raised and lowered positions with respect to the vehicle. The lights can be coupled to one or more arm assemblies of the vehicle access apparatus, to one or more handles of the vehicle access apparatus, or in other locations. Also, the lights can be electroluminescent light elements, bulbs, or other types of light-emitting devices.