Motor-carrying Attachments Patents (Class 180/11)
  • Patent number: 9365254
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobility scooter and in particular to a mobility scooter having a base with a platform. The base further has a receiver at the front of the platform, a rear hitch, two risers with vertical holes for receiving chair legs and a rear axle. Two batteries and motors can be further provided. The chair can fold flat to either allow greater movement upon the platform or for storage. Multiple attachments can be provided, including a single wheel, a double wheel and coupler attachments. The attachments easily engage and are disengaged from the base. Several other attachments can also be provided, including side bars, handlebars and a car seat holder. Further, a movable throttle is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Richard Leo Durrett
  • Patent number: 9358163
    Abstract: A detachable electric drive unit for a wheelchair is provided. The detachable electric drive unit includes a housing having an interior volume and two guide rails disposed on opposing sides of the housing. Each guide rail includes a channel to receive a wheelchair wheel and has at least two wheels attached to opposing ends of each guide rail. A roller assembly is disposed within the channels of each guide rail. An electric motor is coupled to the roller assembly in each guide rail. The electric motor drives the roller assembly imparting rotational motion to the wheelchair wheels supported within each channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Inventor: Charles E. Studebaker
  • Patent number: 9302691
    Abstract: A folding mechanism of vehicle includes a pivot unit having a stationary gear, a chassis unit having a frame pivotally connected with the pivot unit, a swivelable unit pivotally connected with the chassis unit and fixedly connected with a driven gear, and a rack engaged with the stationary gear of the pivot unit and the driven gear of the swivelable unit. When the chassis unit is pivotally folded relative to the pivot unit, the rack is moved to drive the driven gear to rotate, such that the swivelable unit swings relative to the chassis unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: MERITS HEALTH PRODUCTS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ming-Chuan Cheng
  • Patent number: 9187128
    Abstract: A conversion kit for converting an ATV into a low profile, vehicle with a driver cage and roll bar. The conversion kit includes a sub-frame assembly made of lightweight tubular material. During assembly, the ATV's front suspension, handlebars, front wheels, front shocks, and hand and foot controls are disconnected from the ATV. The sub-frame assembly is longitudinally aligned and connected to the A-Arm mounting brackets on the ATV's main frame assembly. The sub-frame assembly includes a protective cage frame and a roll bar. The ATV's front suspension and A-arms are re-connected to A-arm mounting brackets attached to the front section of the sub-frame assembly. The sub-frame assembly includes foots pedals and receives the ATV's handlebars with the hand controls. The kit includes a cable and wire harness sets and a seat belt assembly. It may also include an optional seat, mirrors, wheel extension adaptors, a foot shield and a rear wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Inventor: John K. Koberstein
  • Patent number: 9145264
    Abstract: A grain auger has a frame, a conveyor mounted on the frame for movement between a lowered transport position and a raised use position, and an axle with a pair of wheels to rollably support the auger. The axle has angular disposed hollow members with telescoping arms extending therefrom so that the length and height of the axle is adjustable. A cradle is provided on top of the axle, with a support block at the top of the lift assembly for nesting in the cradle when the conveyor is in the lowered transport position, to minimize the cantilever of the conveyor during transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Meridian Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry Douglas Houssian, Bradley Metro Zazula
  • Patent number: 9114844
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for bicycles to make them more utilitarian and functional. The attachment is easily attached, and potentially attached without damage or significant modification to the bicycle. The apparatus includes a frame member attached to the bottom bracket portion of the existing bicycle, and a gimbal attached to the fork of the existing bicycle in place of the original front tire. The apparatus is steerable using the handle bars and fork on the existing bicycle frame, and is configured for stability when cornering. The apparatus includes a cargo carrier located in front of the cycler where it is easy to see, while maintaining a stable center of gravity and also an ability to lean into corners for cornering stability. Variations include one or two front wheels, and one or two steering drive links. Also, the apparatus is a flexible design providing multiple potential utilitarian uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Hauler Cycles, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher J. Walter
  • Patent number: 9045382
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for separating off solvents from solvent-comprising hydrogenation outputs from a catalytic hydrogenation process, which comprise at least one water-soluble hydrogenation product having at least one alcohol, lactone, ether, lactam or amino group in a solvent which is immiscible or not completely miscible with water and has a boiling point below 100° C., wherein water is added to the hydrogenation output, the solvent-comprising phase is separated off and recirculated to the hydrogenation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rolf Pinkos, Jens Heimann, Hans-Martin Polka, Heiko Urtel, Gunther Windecker
  • Publication number: 20150136498
    Abstract: This invention relates to a transport cart having an X-Y orientation with an X-direction essentially being the driving direction and a Y-direction essentially being perpendicular to the X-direction, both relative to a fixed A-Point, which transport cart is for working on a surface and thereon moving a bed with a bed end and a duct raised from the surface to a height and entering underneath a bed in depth and which bed is supported by bed wheels, which bed preferably is a hospital bed, which transport cart comprises: a chassis supported by at least a first wheel arrangement and a second wheel arrangement, which wheel arrangements are configured to support the chassis and to drive the chassis in the X-direction, which first wheel arrangement interacts with steering means and which second wheel arrangement is spaced from the first wheel arrangement in the X-direction and is arranged to face and enter a duct of a bed end, and which chassis further supports at least one grip configured to grip a bed wheel of a
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Hans Wichmann Madsen, Arne Just Bech
  • Patent number: 8997903
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for assisting in the operation of a wheelbarrow having a tray, handles and at least one front wheel. The present device may generally include a motor, a power/fuel source, a drive wheel and a drive mechanism for rotationally coupling the drive motor to the drive wheel, the drive wheel able to contact the front wheel of the wheelbarrow in a direct wheel-on-wheel engagement when the present device is attached to the underside of the wheelbarrow tray. The present device may be slidingly attached to the wheelbarrow, such as by one or more slides, to permit its movement forward and backward for the drive wheel to engage or disengage the front wheel. The present invention further includes the present device attached to a wheelbarrow or tray, and methods for assembling and operating the device and attaching it to a wheelbarrow or tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Gary Vandelinde
  • Publication number: 20150053488
    Abstract: A drive and control system is provided for a towing vehicle pulling a towed implement, such as a tractor pulling a scraper. The drive system includes a diesel engine which drives a generator for generating electric power. A tractor axle drive motor is connected to driven wheels of the tractor through a transmission. An assist drive motor is drivingly connected to driven wheels of the scraper. A power distribution unit controls distribution of electric power from the generator to the tractor and implement assist drive motors. A control unit controls the power distribution unit as a function of an operator set power split, and other sensed parameters. A one-way clutch prevents over-speed of the assist drive motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: Deere & Company
    Inventors: GARY S. KEYS, II, JOHN W. REGENAUER, MATTHEW J. HARRIS, BRIAN A. RODRIGUE, CLAYTON P. NEUMANN, ZACHARY KAIL, JOE L. SCHUTTE
  • Patent number: 8960340
    Abstract: A power add-on device for powering a manual wheelchair includes a motorized component including dual electric motors and a power source electrically coupled to the electric motors, wherein each of the motors is configured to turn a respective one of a set of drive wheels. The power add-on device includes a latching mechanism adapted to attach the power add-on device to the camber tube of the manual wheelchair; and a controller, reachable by a person sitting in the manual wheelchair, that controls the latching mechanism, the motors, and a swing arm that allows the rear wheels of the manual wheelchair to be lifted off the ground. The front wheels of the manual wheelchair are allowed to be lifted several inches off the ground to avoid obstacles, or can be lifted by the user leaning back. Advantageously, the power add-on device can be detached from the manual wheelchair and loaded into the trunk of a car when travelling or may be checked in as baggage when flying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Patrick Tallino
  • Patent number: 8939455
    Abstract: This invention is a child's detachable-seat ride-on vehicle which can be used in an autonomous mode for infants, thereby providing soothing motion for the child, or, with a different detachable seat, a child-controlled ride-on vehicle for young children that are beyond the infant stage. For the latter, the vehicle can be driven by the child using finger control on a touch screen, or it can operate in an autonomous mode coordinated with displayed material, thereby providing enhanced game or educational experiences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventors: Robert L. Terry, M. Harris Milam, George W. Batten, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20150000989
    Abstract: An electric moving device for moving patient beds includes a power unit, a holding unit and a control unit. The power unit is connected to the underside of the moving device and the holding unit is connected to two columns of the moving device so as to connect the moving device with the bed. By operating the control unit to control the power unit, the bed is moved from one place to another by the moving device. Medical equipment is able to go with the moving device to provide sufficient caring surface to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: SAMUEL LIN, FENG-HUI LIAO, KUO-JONG YANG, KUN-AN HUANG
  • Patent number: 8851210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and method for moving a disabled vehicle. More specifically, the invention includes a main frame assembly that is constructed and arranged for placement and adjacent to the outside portion of a vehicle wheel to allow one operator movement of the vehicle. An electric motor and battery(s) operate through a gear train to rotate an adapter plate in both forward and reverse directions. The adapter plate is constructed and arranged to cooperate with the lug nuts or wheel studs to provide rotation to the wheel upon operation of the electric motor. A hand or remotely operable controller is provided for the operation of the electric motor which allows for operation of the device while walking alongside or sitting at the driver's position within the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Ertosh Mfg., Co., LLC
    Inventors: Eric J. Pezzuti, James J. Pezzuti
  • Publication number: 20140262575
    Abstract: The presently disclosure describes a motion assistance system for a wheelchair, for example, a powered drive wheel system that can continually drive a wheelchair in a circular or elliptical path. The motion assistance system comprises a mounting mechanism attachable to one or more structural elements of the wheelchair, and a drive linkage pivotable with respect to the mounting mechanism. A drive wheel can be mounted to an end of the drive linkage such that the drive wheel contacts the ground when installed on the wheelchair. The drive wheel comprises a plurality of lateral rollers positioned radially about the circumference of the power drive wheel. The lateral rollers can rotate about an axis tangential to the circumference of the drive wheel in order to facilitate driving the wheelchair in a radial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Max Mobility, LLC
    Inventor: Mark Richter
  • Publication number: 20140216829
    Abstract: A wheelchair tow device which includes a frame sub-assembly, at least one front ground engaging wheel, at least one rear ground engaging wheel, a motive source capable of rotating at least one of the at least one front ground engaging wheel and the at least one rear ground engaging wheel, an energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device is in electrical communication with the motive source, and a handle assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Randall J. Bezile
  • Patent number: 8718898
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stand (10) for holding at least one medical device (W1 to W3), which encompasses a stand foot (6) having multiple casters (16) for displacement of the stand (10). The stand (10) has a sensor unit (22) for ascertaining a displacement motion of the stand (10), a drive unit (18) for driving at least one of the casters (16), and a control unit (20) for controlling the drive unit (18). The control unit (20) applies control to the drive unit (18) in such a way that the latter assistively drives the at least one caster (16) only when the sensor unit (22) detects a displacement motion of the stand (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Leica Microsystems (Schweiz) AG
    Inventor: Joachim Schaible
  • Patent number: 8695736
    Abstract: A bin moving assembly is provided for tipping and moving upright wheeled recycling bins. The assembly includes a jack and a pair of wheels coupled to the jack. A fork is coupled to and extends from the jack. The jack selectively extends the fork upwardly whereby the fork is configured for engaging and tipping an upright wheeled recycling bin. A handle is coupled to the jack to facilitate moving the jack when the fork engages the bin whereby the bin is moved with the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Devindranath Samaroo
  • Patent number: 8684113
    Abstract: A device for adapting a manual wheelchair to drive with a powered wheel is disclosed. The device attached to the wheelchair provides means for raising the wheelchair front caster wheels and simultaneously having the powered wheel contact the driving surface. The disclosed device may be rotated so that the powered wheel lifts from the surface as the front caster wheels are lowered to contact the driving surface enabling manual operation of the wheelchair. The disclosed device includes a mechanism for steering the powered wheel, controls for varying the forward or backward speeds and braking. The device may be detached from the chair and is adaptable to fit a large variety of wheelchairs with capability for ergonomically adjusting the steering column for the comfort of the user. Optional human interface devices may be incorporated so the chair occupant may control speed and steering by operating a joystick, head array or other such devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory Edward Laconis
  • Patent number: 8607905
    Abstract: Apparatus for moving a wheeled load comprising: a frame having a two end; at least one wheel attached to at least one frame end; drive wheel(s) between the ends; a drive means for providing drive wheel power; a power source; a load-lifting arm means, the lifting arm means having a proximal end rotatably attached to the frame and a distal end; affixed to the distal end is a locking pickup head having a multi-socket center adapted to receive a ball, and a sliding locking gate to releasably affix the head to the ball; extending outwardly from the second end is a handle; disposed on the handle is a control means for operating the apparatus; and drive disengagement means for mechanically disengaging the powered driving mechanism so that a user can manually move the apparatus in case of battery or other mechanical failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Dan Johnson
  • Patent number: 8590647
    Abstract: A wheelchair tow device which includes a frame sub-assembly, at least one front ground engaging wheel, at least one rear ground engaging wheel, a motive source capable of rotating at least one of the at least one front ground engaging wheel and the at least one rear ground engaging wheel, an energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device is in electrical communication with the motive source, and a handle assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Randall J. Bezile
  • Publication number: 20130240271
    Abstract: A power add-on device for powering a manual wheelchair includes a motorized component including dual electric motors and a power source electrically coupled to the electric motors, wherein each of the motors is configured to turn a respective one of a set of drive wheels. The power add-on device includes a latching mechanism adapted to attach the power add-on device to the camber tube of the manual wheelchair; and a controller, reachable by a person sitting in the manual wheelchair, that controls the latching mechanism, the motors, and a swing arm that allows the rear wheels of the manual wheelchair to be lifted off the ground. The front wheels of the manual wheelchair are allowed to be lifted several inches off the ground to avoid obstacles, or can be lifted by the user leaning back. Advantageously, the power add-on device can be detached from the manual wheelchair and loaded into the trunk of a car when travelling or may be checked in as baggage when flying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Tallino
  • Patent number: 8430189
    Abstract: A power add-on device for powering a manual wheelchair includes a motorized component including dual electric motors and a power source electrically coupled to the electric motors, wherein each of the motors is configured to turn a respective one of a set of drive wheels. The power add-on device includes a latching mechanism adapted to attach the power add-on device to the camber tube of the manual wheelchair; and a controller, reachable by a person sitting in the manual wheelchair, that controls the latching mechanism, the motors, and a swing arm that allows the rear wheels of the manual wheelchair to be lifted off the ground. The front wheels of the manual wheelchair are allowed to be lifted several inches off the ground to avoid obstacles, or can be lifted by the user leaning back. Advantageously, the power add-on device can be detached from the manual wheelchair and loaded into the trunk of a car when travelling or may be checked in as baggage when flying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Tallino
  • Publication number: 20130062128
    Abstract: Apparatus for moving a wheeled load comprising: a frame having a two end; at least one wheel attached to at least one frame end; drive wheel(s) between the ends; a drive means for providing drive wheel power; a power source; a load-lifting arm means, the lifting arm means having a proximal end rotatably attached to the frame and a distal end; affixed to the distal end is a locking pickup head having a multi-socket center adapted to receive a ball, and a sliding locking gate to releasably affix the head to the ball; extending outwardly from the second end is a handle; disposed on the handle is a control means for operating the apparatus; and drive disengagement means for mechanically disengaging the powered driving mechanism so that a user can manually move the apparatus in case of battery or other mechanical failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Dan Johnson
  • Publication number: 20130008732
    Abstract: A motion-based push activation power assist system for manual wheelchairs. The system uses motion-based measurements to determine when the user applies a push to the wheelchair handrims and brakes with the handrims. The push recognition activates a drive system that provides an assistive driving force-pulse to the wheelchair to reduce the demand on the user during propulsion. The brake recognition deactivates the power assist. The provided power assist is proportional to the sensed push and can be modulated to different proportional settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: W. MARK RICHTER
  • Publication number: 20120301263
    Abstract: A tow apparatus for moving an aircraft comprising a frame, a drive member, a contact wheel configured to engage with a nosewheel tire of an aircraft, a transmission portion, a shaft engageable with a nosewheel tire of an aircraft, and a torque arm rotatably supported by the frame. The transmission portion can be configured such that the drive wheels transfer and increase a rotational force produced by the drive member to the contact wheel. The shaft can be movable between a first position and a second position relative to the contact wheel so as to bring the contact wheel into contact with the nosewheel of the aircraft. The torque arm can substantially prevent the rotation of the tow apparatus relative to the nosewheel assembly of the aircraft when the torque arm is engaged with the nosewheel assembly of the aircraft. The drive member can have a portable power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Applicant: REDLINE AVIATION, LLC
    Inventor: Linn Kastan
  • Patent number: 8297384
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus may augment the utility of an electrically powered vehicle. A first electric motor (110a or 111a) may be provided with a first effective gear ratio, a second electric motor (110b or 111b) may be provided with a second effective gear ratio, and additional electric motors may be provided additional effective gear ratios. An electrically powered vehicle may be differentially powered by said electric motors at said different effective gear ratios. A transdisciplinary electrical diagnostic processor (440) may process electrically recondite operation parameters of one or more electrical components to provide transdisciplinary diagnostic output to a user. A standardized modular interface (540) supported on a trailer chassis (510) may be configured to accept multipurposed modular interchangeable trailer tops (560) at an interchange position (550) of said trailer chassis (510). A hand actuated accessory mount may be provided with a quick release interface (322).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: EV-IP, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Wanger, Mark A. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120252606
    Abstract: A sport goal movement system that includes drive and control systems. The drive system preferably includes a motor that selectively drives one of a wheel or a track. The drive system can be integrated with and/or permanently or removably secured to the sport goal assembly. Operation of the drive system effectuates single user unassisted and possibly remote translation of the sport goal assembly relative to a ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Nelson Ennis
  • Patent number: 8267206
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
  • Patent number: 8261859
    Abstract: A self-propelled trailer may be attached to a bicycle. The speed of the trailer is adjusted based on a signal from a force gauge which indicates whether the bicycle is pulling the trailer or the trailer is pushing the bicycle. In the former situation, the force gauge indicates a tensile load, and in the latter situation, the force gauge indicates a compressive load. Based on the feedback from the force gauge, the speed of the motor attached to the self-propelled trailer is adjusted so that the trailer and bicycle are moving at the same speed or the bicycle is pulling the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Felt Racing, LLC
    Inventor: William K. Duehring
  • Patent number: 8256543
    Abstract: A bicycle may tow a trailer for the purposes of carrying a heavy or large object across great distances. A motor may be mounted to the trailer which drives a rear wheel of the bicycle. To this end, a transmission is added to the rear hub of the bicycle which is mechanically coupled to the output shaft of the motor. When the trailer is detached or not used in conjunction with the bicycle, the rider does not have to carry the weight of the motor. Also, this setup provides a stable configuration since the bicycle is pulling the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Felt Racing, LLC
    Inventor: William K. Duehring
  • Patent number: 8181725
    Abstract: An aircraft tug includes a tow bar which extends from a chassis, the tow bar operable to autonomously attach with an aircraft main landing gear assembly and transfer electrical power therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Andres, Shin Katsumata
  • Patent number: 8177011
    Abstract: A forecab and additional electrical and mechanical components attachable to a motorcycle for converting a motorcycle between its standard configuration and a three-wheeled vehicle is disclosed. The forecab has two front wheels, chassis, a body, a motorcycle front wheel cradle, headlights and parking lights, and standard automobile-type components such as a steering wheel, foot brake, clutch, and foot-manipulated gas pedal. The forecab components are connected to corresponding motorcycle components using both electrical connections, and mechanical linkages as appropriate. The invention adds components to the motorcycle so that the linkages between the forecab and the motorcycle component may be implemented. The mechanical linkages, electrical connections and motorcycle-securing mechanisms are designed to they can be easily connected and disconnected in a manner so that the biker can easily transition between the three-wheeled motorcycle-powered vehicle and the standard motorcycle without tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Len Edward Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20120090904
    Abstract: A wheelchair tow device which includes a frame sub-assembly, at least one front ground engaging wheel, at least one rear ground engaging wheel, a motive source capable of rotating at least one of the at least one front ground engaging wheel and the at least one rear ground engaging wheel, an energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device is in electrical communication with the motive source, and a handle assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Randall J. Bezile
  • Publication number: 20120080243
    Abstract: A motor assembly for a wheelchair and a corresponding method of use are provided for conversion of a manual wheelchair into a powered wheelchair. The motor assembly includes a crossbar, a motor mount bracket, and a motor that is attached to the crossbar by the motor mount bracket. The motor mount bracket includes a front plate and a back plate that is attached to the front plate by a hinge. The back and front plates are capable of clamping on to the crossbar after the crossbar has been attached to the wheelchair. The crossbar further includes collars that center the drive wheels to the wheelchair when the motor is attached to the crossbar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: James P. Mulhern
  • Publication number: 20120037435
    Abstract: A self-propelled trailer may be attached to a bicycle. The speed of the trailer is adjusted based on a signal from a force gauge which indicates whether the bicycle is pulling the trailer or the trailer is pushing the bicycle. In the former situation, the force gauge indicates a tensile load, and in the latter situation, the force gauge indicates a compressive load. Based on the feedback from the force gauge, the speed of the motor attached to the self-propelled trailer is adjusted so that the trailer and bicycle are moving at the same speed or the bicycle is pulling the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Inventor: William K. Duehring
  • Publication number: 20120006604
    Abstract: A bicycle may tow a trailer for the purposes of carrying a heavy or large object across great distances. A motor may be mounted to the trailer which drives a rear wheel of the bicycle. To this end, a transmission is added to the rear hub of the bicycle which is mechanically coupled to the output shaft of the motor. When the trailer is detached or not used in conjunction with the bicycle, the rider does not have to carry the weight of the motor. Also, this setup provides a stable configuration since the bicycle is pulling the trailer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: William K. Duehring
  • Patent number: 8056657
    Abstract: A bicycle may tow a trailer for the purposes of carrying a heavy or large object across great distances. A motor may be mounted to the trailer which drives a rear wheel of the bicycle. To this end, a transmission is added to the rear hub of the bicycle which is mechanically coupled to the output shaft of the motor. When the trailer is detached or not used in conjunction with the bicycle, the rider does not have to carry the weight of the motor. Also, this setup provides a stable configuration since the bicycle is pulling the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Felt Racing, LLC
    Inventor: William K. Duehring
  • Patent number: 8056162
    Abstract: A patient support apparatus, such as a hospital bed, comprises a lower frame, an upper frame supported above the lower frame and configured to support a patient, and a support structure coupled to the lower frame. The support structure includes a lift having a movable portion that is movable generally vertically relative to the lower frame and relative to the upper frame. The movable portion of the lift is configured to carry a patient care equipment support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Newkirk, Richard H. Heimbrock, David W. Hornbach
  • Patent number: 8051931
    Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
  • Publication number: 20110266077
    Abstract: An autonomous propulsion system comprising a motorized unit including a traction mechanism; and a control bar removably attached to the traction mechanism and formed by a plurality of elongated bar segments connected end to end, such that the control bar can be formed in a plurality of shapes, and is thereby adapted to be more easily manipulated by a user shifting their body weight to steer and maneuver the propulsion system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Claude Nadeau
  • Patent number: 8047320
    Abstract: A powered cycle vehicle having an adjustable mounting system for a power unit is described. A power unit is attached to a wheel mounting bracket which is affixed to the vehicle frame and carries the cycle wheel. The wheel mounting bracket may be a unitary structure that defines a wheel mount location and a power unit mount location. Adjustment of the power unit can be made independently of adjustment of the cycle wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Razor USA, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Hadley
  • Publication number: 20110253463
    Abstract: A modular hybrid electrical vehicle system may comprise an electric vehicle and a detachable power plant. The detachable power plant may be operable to externally attach to and provide power for the electric motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Eric Smith
  • Publication number: 20110209931
    Abstract: A power assist apparatus for powering a manual wheelchair may include one or more wheels, one or more motors that drives the one or more wheels, a remote operable to control the one or more motors, and a connector operable to attach to the manual wheelchair. The power assist apparatus may be quickly and easily attached to, and removed from a manual wheelchair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Franklin Brent Butts, John David Gowen
  • Patent number: 7997361
    Abstract: A reverse drive mechanism is configured to rotate at least one wheel of a multi-wheeled device in a reverse direction so that the device moves in that reverse direction. One particular application involves a motorcycle conversion assembly in which at least one of the rear wheels of the conversion assembly is driven in the reverse direction so as to back-up the motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: David Anthony Bell, LaNell Easley Bell
  • Patent number: 7931108
    Abstract: Exemplary apparatus and system for repositioning a semi-trailer are described. The repositoner may comprise two pivoting arms, each comprising a mechanical actuator attached to an underside area of the semi-trailer, wherein the pivoting arms are disposed substantially parallel to the underside of the semi-trailer in a first position and are configured to be pivoted away from the semi-trailer in a second position substantially perpendicular to the underside of the semi-trailer; two wheels mounted at an angle from a rear plane of the semi-trailer such that the semi-trailer moves in a circular path when the wheels turn, with each wheel operatively coupled to a motor; and a lower frame mounted to the mechanical actuators of the arms, the lower frame comprising two opposing wheel housing couple to the wheels; wherein, lowering the hydraulic jack arms can hydraulically lift the semi-trailer, and further wherein the wheels can maneuver the semi-trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Erich Feldhaus
    Inventor: Erich Hadden Feldhaus
  • Publication number: 20110079453
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus may augment the utility of an electrically powered vehicle. A first electric motor (110a or 110b) may be provided with a first effective gear ratio, a second electric motor (111a or 111b) may be provided with a second effective gear ratio, and additional electric motors may be provided additional effective gear ratios. An electrically powered vehicle may be differentially powered by said electric motors at said different effective gear ratios. A transdisciplinary electrical diagnostic processor (440) may process electrically recondite operation parameters of one or more electrical components to provide transdisciplinary diagnostic output to a user. A standardized modular interface (540) supported on a trailer chassis (510) may be configured to accept multipurposed modular interchangeable trailer tops (560) at an interchange position (550) of said trailer chassis (510). A hand actuated accessory mount may be provided with a quick release interface (322).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: EV-IP, LLC
    Inventors: Mark E. Wanger, Mark A. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110042154
    Abstract: Systems for towing a trailer by a towing vehicle and a method for controlling such a system are disclosed. The systems and method are configured to maintain a constant towing load on the towing vehicle as well as optimizing other performance criteria such as fuel efficiency. The system comprises a closed loop controller, a towing arm assembly, a load measuring device, an electric hub motor, brakes, a motor controller and a brake controller disposed on the trailer. In another embodiment, two separate systems are installed, one on each side of the trailer. A load force feeds into a PID controller programmed with preset proportional, differential and integral parameters. The PID controller generates a command signal to either modulate the brakes or motor up or down depending on the sign of the command signal. A process output updates the system which continuously adjusts based on driving conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Brian Daniel Bartel
  • Patent number: 7886854
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wheelchair structure, which is available with a handle, seat and wheel body. The handle is provided with an integrated control seat, and the wheel body is provided with auxiliary drive unit and combined positioning member. The integrated control seat can be assembled securely onto the wheelchair handles of different diameters and curvatures, and the swinging angle can be adjusted flexibly. Thus, it is possible to guarantee outstanding adaptability of assembly, efficient and convenient operation with improved applicability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Wu's Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Liang Chiu
  • Publication number: 20100314180
    Abstract: A mobilizing apparatus is provided for moving an airplane positioned on the ground, wherein the mobilizing apparatus comprises at least one pair of main wheels and engagement means, and is characterized in that the engagement means is adapted to enable engagement of the mobilizing apparatus to the airplane central under carriage so that the axis along which the at least one pair of the mobilizing apparatus main wheels is essentially located, is along a virtual axis formed between the central wheels of the airplane to be moved, thereby the mobilizing apparatus main wheels are positioned essentially parallel to the respective airplane central wheels upon engaging the mobilizing apparatus to the airplane to be moved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: ZIV-AV ENGINEERING LTD.
    Inventor: Amir ZIV-AV