Abstract: A carriage for a person which may be attached to a transporting device, comprising a frame, structure attached to the frame for holding the torso of the person in an essentially vertical position, and thigh retaining structure having first and second attachment members secured to the frame and operatively arranged such that when the thigh retaining structure is engaged, and the straps are properly secured, the thighs of the person are held in a substantially horizontal position.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for transporting a disabled person in a carrying means. One embodiment of the apparatus includes a dual-track structure for supporting a hoist and trolley which are controlled by the disabled person. In a further embodiment, the structure is designed to be supported by a floor and ceiling together, or by a floor alone, and is adjustable to accommodate rooms of different dimensions. A still further embodiment of the invention includes mechanical and electronic safety means for the hoist which senses a malfunction and provides an appropriate response thereto, such as sounding an alarm and/or lowering the hoist at a specific pre-programmed location and at a controlled descent rate. The embodiments may be used independently or in concert in accordance with the invention. One method of the invention comprises transporting the disabled person utilizing the dual-track structure controlled by the disabled person.