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.

Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support. The traction device includes a storage position and a use position.

Abstract: A self propelled, steerable jockey wheel assembly for a trailer or vehicle, the assembly including an attachment means to attach the assembly relative to the trailer or vehicle, a length adjustable support associated with the attachment means and at least one wheel located at a lower end of the length adjustable support to support the load of the trailer or vehicle and engage a ground surface.

Abstract: An auxiliary drive device is disclosed that connects to a motorised vehicle to supplement the drive of the motorised vehicle depending on the speed and acceleration of the motorised vehicle by using stored energy. The auxiliary drive device obtains energy by regenerative braking when the motorised vehicle decelerates, extracting energy from the motorised vehicle by using hybrid through the road, and by recharging from the power grid. The auxiliary drive device uses the stored energy to supplement the drive of the motorised vehicle depending on the motorised vehicle speed, acceleration, drive cycle, the amount of energy stored, and if the motorised vehicle is towing a load. A controller maximizes fuel savings and towing performance of the motorised vehicle. The controller determines when the auxiliary drive device needs to provide the mortised vehicle with power assistance, resistance via braking and when to conserve the stored energy for later use.

Abstract: A hand truck driving apparatus includes a dolly that has a frame having a bottom end, a top end and pair of lateral sides. A plate is attached to the frame adjacent to the bottom end and extends forward of the frame. A stabilizer is attached to and extends rearward of the frame. A pair of support wheels is rotatably attached to the stabilizer adjacent to the bottom end of the frame. A drive platform is removably attached to the dolly. A drive apparatus is mounted on the drive platform. The drive apparatus moves the drive platform and the dolly when the drive apparatus is actuated.

Abstract: Apparatuses for assisting motion of vehicles are disclosed here. Embodiments of the present disclosure include an apparatus comprising, a charge-storage unit, an electromotor coupled to the charge-storage unit, wherein, at least a portion of the power supplied to the electromotor is supplied by the charge-storage unit. The apparatus may further include, a wheel powered by the electromotor to rotate in a plane about an axis, a housing, and a handle coupled to the housing, the handle being physically configured to, when, in operation, couple to an external entity to whom motion assistance is to be provided. The external entity may be a vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle although other objects may be connected.

Abstract: A powered bicycle trailer for propelling a bicycle, a human rider and cargo having frame, a vehicle-mounted adapter that dismountably attaches to a bicycle, a connecting arm for rotatably connecting the frame to the vehicle-mounted adapter such that the frame is rotatable around a vertical axis with respect to the connecting arm. The trailer having a power mechanism having a multi-functional control assembly capable of generating an output drive to a ground wheel, a power transmission system mechanically coupled to an output drive of the power mechanism and capable of driving the ground wheel and the control assembly and trailer are rapidly mountable and dismountable from the bicycle by a quick connect and disconnect mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a kit for attaching a manually operated wheelchair to a motorized scooter having a seating apparatus and supporting structure and a floor, comprising: (a) a motorized scooter attachment angle iron, wherein the angle iron comprises: (i) a vertical wall; and (ii) a horizontal wall, the horizontal wall forming approximately a right angle to the vertical wall, wherein the horizontal wall has at least two embedded elongated slots; (b) an angle iron attachment adjustable bar, wherein the adjustable bar comprises (i) a left elbow shaped tubular segment having a horizontally oriented bottom end and a vertically oriented top end; (ii) a right elbow shaped tubular segment having a horizontally oriented bottom end and a vertically oriented top end; and (iii) a straight middle tubular segment having a diameter larger than the left segment and the right segment, so as to permit the left segment to insert into a left end of the middle tubular segment and so as to permit the right segment to i

Abstract: Apparatuses for assisting motion of vehicles are disclosed here. Embodiments of the present disclosure include an apparatus comprising, a charge-storage unit, an electromotor coupled to the charge-storage unit, wherein, at least a portion of the power supplied to the electromotor is supplied by the charge-storage unit. The apparatus may further include, a wheel powered by the electromotor to rotate in a plane about an axis, a housing, and a handle coupled to the housing, the handle being physically configured to, when, in operation, couple to an external entity to whom motion assistance is to be provided. The external entity may be a vehicle (e.g., a motor vehicle although other objects may be connected.

Abstract: A recharging trailer for applying electrical energy to an electric vehicle has an electrical power coupling. The recharging trailer includes a trailer frame configured to be coupled to the electronic vehicle. An electrical generation unit is disposed on the trailer and is configured generate electrical power. The electrical generation unit is also configured to be electrically coupled to the electrical power coupling of the electric vehicle. A trailer propulsion unit is configured to propel the trailer while the electrical vehicle is moving so that the trailer moves without applying a substantial load to the electric vehicle.

Abstract: A powered, directionally steerable trailer jack that can be used to elevate and lower a trailer tongue and having a caster wheel assembly affixed to a lower end of the jack. The caster wheel assembly includes a shroud having the wheels' axle journaled for rotation at a lower end thereof along with a pair of shafts also journaled for rotation in the shroud and oriented parallel to the axle. A chain and sprocket arrangement provides a low-speed, high torque transmission between one of the shafts and the axle and a high-speed, low torque transmission between the other of the shafts and the axle. The trailer jack assembly can be tilted out of its vertical disposition to provide adequate clearance when the trailer is being pulled over uneven road surfaces. The power for driving the wheels may be provided manually by means of a crank for turning one or the other of the shafts or by an electric motor coupled one of the shafts.

Abstract: The invention provides an automobile vehicle pusher system, a hybrid or an electrical propulsion vehicle, and a method of reversibly converting a vehicle to hybrid or electrical propulsion. In a preferred aspect the invention provides such a system that can be reversibly connected to a trailer hitch or similar type device at the rear of a vehicle to provide propulsion in whole, or in part, for the vehicle. A further preferred embodiment includes connections and apparatus for charging of the electrical power storage components to provide a plug-in hybrid or plug-in electric only vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention is a shopping cart collection device adapted to engage to first and second shopping carts and capable of pulling a first train of shopping carts extending from the first shopping cart and pushing a second train of shopping carts extending from the second shopping cart. The device comprises a motorized unit comprising a drive wheel, a first hitch and a second hitch. The first hitch is proximate a first side of the motorized unit and is adapted to engage the first shopping cart. The second hitch is proximate a second side of the motorized unit opposite the first side and is adapted to engage the second shopping cart.

Abstract: A steering apparatus for steering wheels (1) of a vehicle (2) comprises support means (4) arranged for supporting said wheels (1), driving means (27) arranged for rotating said support means (4) around respective longitudinal axis means (Z) and connecting means arranged for connecting said driving means (27) with said support means (4), said connecting means comprising transmission gear means (26); a vehicle comprises steered wheel means (1) and steering means (3) arranged for controlling said steered wheel means (1), said steering means (3) comprising support means (4) arranged for supporting said steered wheel means (1), driving means (27) arranged for rotating said support means (4) around respective longitudinal axis means (Z) and connecting means arranged for connecting said driving means (27) with said support means (4) , said connecting means comprising transmission gear means (26).

Abstract: A hybrid conversion kit is configured for attachment to a pre-existing vehicle. The kit includes a frame assembly, an auxiliary wheel, a generator/motor, an energy storage device, and a controller. The frame assembly is adapted to be connected to the vehicle. The auxiliary wheel is mounted to the frame assembly and is positioned to contact a ground surface. The generator/motor is connected to the auxiliary wheel. The controller is configured to direct energy from the energy storage device to the generator/motor and thence to the auxiliary wheel when a vehicle is accelerating or moving at a constant, non-zero speed. The controller is further configured for causing the generator/motor to convert rotary motion of the auxiliary wheel into a different form of energy and to cause the energy so converted to be stored in the energy storage device as a vehicle decelerates. Methods are also provided.

Abstract: A powered maneuverable and retractable trailer jack adapted for attachment to a tongue of a trailer has an external sleeve, a gear rack on an exterior of the external sleeve, a housing containing at least one gear engaged with the gear rack and operative to move the external sleeve relative to the housing, the housing including a mount configured for attachment to the tongue of a trailer whereby the external sleeve is laterally offset relative to the tongue of a trailer, an internal rod within the external sleeve, the internal rod extending through a wheel fork at a lower distal end of the internal rod and the external sleeve and attached to a drive gear which is engaged with a shaft gear upon a drive shaft rotationally mounted in the wheel fork, and a drive sprocket attached to the drive shaft, a wheel mounted upon an axle rotationally mounted within the wheel fork, and a wheel sprocket attached to the axle proximate to the wheel, and a chain which extends continuously from the wheel sprocket to the drive sp

Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a propulsion system is provided to assist a caregiver in moving a patient support about a care facility. The propulsion system is detachably coupled to patient support to permit storage of the propulsion system or use of propulsion system on multiple patient supports.

Abstract: A towing dolly is provided for relocating wheeled loads such as boat trailers, camping trailers and airplanes where towing forces required may be substantial. The towing dolly may have a wheel assembly with a drive gear disposed between proximate treads. The towing dolly may have a narrow wheel width providing easy steering and compact size for storage. The towing dolly may have a motor with a gear sprocket. A linked chain may transfer power from the motor to the drive gear located between the double treads. The dolly may have a steering arm extending perpendicular to drive direction allowing the operator to stand away from path of movement of the load while providing adequate leverage to steer the dolly. The dolly may have an alternate configuration with a power source located on the dolly providing operation independent of plugins or extension cords.

Abstract: A utility vehicle having first and second vehicle modules and a method of operating a utility vehicle. The utility vehicle having a first vehicle module including a first vehicle body, a first plurality of wheels operatively connected with the first vehicle body, and a steering controller operatively connected for controlling at least one of the wheels among the first plurality of wheels. The second vehicle module including a second vehicle body and a second plurality of wheels operatively connected with the second vehicle body. The second vehicle body having a greater wheel spacing than that of the first vehicle body. Also, the second vehicle body being sized and configured to engage and carry the first vehicle body. The utility vehicle further having a control interface between the first vehicle module and the second vehicle module.

Abstract: For power purposes, an electrically-powered autonomous vehicle requires a mass and/or a significant volume of batteries, the batteries being supported by an independent chassis (4). The independent chassis is designed to be received in a housing (3) which is defined under the chassis of the vehicle and which is provided with at least one wheel (5)-equipped axle. Each of the chassis includes a connection interface, each including the complementary male and female parts of at least one centering member (15) and of at least one socket member (16). The vehicle chassis-side interface has a plate (10) which is independent of the chassis and which is connected to same at least three points, namely: two points which are controlled by jacks (12) and a third point which takes the form of a ball joint.

Abstract: The present invention provides a kit for attaching a manually operated wheelchair to a motorized scooter having a seating apparatus and supporting structure and a floor, comprising: (a) a motorized scooter attachment angle iron, wherein the angle iron comprises: (i) a vertical wall; and (ii) a horizontal wall, the horizontal wall forming approximately a right angle to the vertical wall, wherein the horizontal wall has at least two embedded elongated slots; (b) an angle iron attachment adjustable bar, wherein the adjustable bar comprises (i) a left elbow shaped tubular segment having a horizontally oriented bottom end and a vertically oriented top end; (ii) a right elbow shaped tubular segment having a horizontally oriented bottom end and a vertically oriented top end; and (iii) a straight middle tubular segment having a diameter larger than the left segment and the right segment, so as to permit the left segment to insert into a left end of the middle tubular segment and so as to permit the right segment to i

Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support. The traction device includes a storage position and a use position.

Abstract: A steerable drive assembly for local movement of a trailer includes an electric motor drive wheel unit having a drive wheel connected to the output shaft of a gear reduction unit. A steering shaft is connected to the drive wheel unit and an upper operating handle. The steering shaft is rotatably supported by a sleeve assembly that is attached to the tongue of the trailer. The operating handle includes a throttle coupled with the electric motor through a variable speed control for providing progressing power to the motor to enable speed variation without wheel slippage.

Abstract: A hospital bed includes a carrier frame, a driven wheel unit disposed below the frame, a motor unit, a drive wheel unit disposed below the frame and coupled operably to the motor unit in such a manner that actuation of the motor unit results in rotation of the drive wheel unit. A lifting-and-lowering device interconnects the frame and the drive wheel unit for lowering and lifting the drive wheel unit with respect to the driven wheel unit between an upper position, in which, the drive wheel unit is disposed at an elevation above the driven wheel unit, and a lower position, in which lower surfaces of the driven and drive wheel units are flush with each other.

Abstract: A method of attaching a manually operated wheelchair to a motorized scooter using an angle iron, an adjustable bar that has a left segment, a middle segment, a right segment and a pair of adapters. A user slides the middle segment over the left and right segments, and inserts screws into left and right holes in the middle segment and aligned holes in the left and right segments. The user then screws the adapters onto upper ends of the left and right segments and snaps them into position on the underside of the wheelchair. Next, the user removes the seating apparatus from the scooter, fastens the angle iron to the floor of the scooter by inserting a pair of bolts through the slots in the angle iron and tightening the bolts with a pair of matching nuts, and places the bar squarely against the angle iron.

Abstract: The boat trailer tug includes a primary frame with a mounting beam that is attachable to a boat trailer frame. A primary collar is fixed to the mounting beam front end. A hitch tongue is connected to the collar and extends forward from the collar. A hitch ball receiver is mounted on a front end of the hitch tongue for connecting the tug to a towing vehicle. A vertical height adjustment frame is slidably connected to the collar. A linear actuator moves the height adjustment frame up and down relative to the collar. A power unit frame is pivotally attached to the height adjustment frame for pivotal movement about a vertical axis. A motor, transmission and driven wheels are mounted on the power unit frame. The linear actuator raises and lowers the driven wheels. A steering system pivots the power unit frame to steer the tug.

Abstract: A motor-driven vehicle includes a vehicle frame and a driving device. The vehicle frame includes a main body and a retaining unit. The main body has a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The retaining unit includes a retaining plate disposed pivotally on the first connecting portion and having a free end rotatable to close and open a groove in the first connecting portion. The driving device includes a support frame that has a first engaging portion disposed within the groove, and a second engaging portion connected to the second connecting portion by a tongue and groove engagement. When the groove is closed, removal of the vehicle frame from the driving device is prevented. When the groove is opened, removal of the vehicle frame from the driving device is allowed.

Abstract: A vehicle is described herein which includes a first communication network, a second communications network and a router which is used to facilitate communication between the first and second networks.

Abstract: A patient support including a propulsion device for moving the patient support. The patient support includes a propulsion system having a propulsion device operably coupled to an input system.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a utility transport truck having electro-pneumatic controls for coupling and decoupling of devices which are in weight and sensitivity categories that make manual movement without power assist difficult or impossible.

Abstract: A device for climbing stairs for a wheelchair having a chassis (1) having a lifting device (3) and having receivers (17, 18) for the running wheels (16) of the wheelchair on arms running transversely to the wheel axles laterally next to the chassis (1) is described. In order to provide advantageous construction conditions, it is suggested that the arms each form at least one bow (10), which is mounted so it is pivotable around a transverse axis (11) positioned in a frame (7) from a stop-delimited pivoted-out position into a positioned pivoted in against the frame (7), and the frame (7), which is linked laterally to the chassis (1) around a longitudinal axis (8), may be folded up from a stop-delimited, folded-down operating position into a rest position.

Abstract: A self-propelled sulky for attachment to existing non-self-propelled equipment,thereby enabling the equipment to be converted into a self-propelled equipment with a modular propulsion system. The sulky includes a frame, a motor mounted to the frame, wheels rotatably mounted to the frame, a device for transferring power from the motor to at least one of the wheels, a device for controlling the power transferring device and thereby the ground speed and direction of the sulky, a device for connecting the sulky to a rearward end of the non-self-propelled equipment to enable pushing of the non-self-propelled equipment with the sulky, and a support structure on the frame for supporting an operator in a standing position. The support structure is located and configured on the frame to enable the operator to selectively step onto the support structure to ride the sulky and step off the support structure to walk behind the sulky.

Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a propulsion system is provided to assist a caregiver in moving a patient support about a care facility. The propulsion system is detachably coupled to patient support to permit storage of the propulsion system or use of propulsion system on multiple patient supports.

Abstract: An aircraft rescue fire fighting vehicle comprises a chassis module, a cab module, and a control system. The control system further comprises a plurality of input devices, a plurality of output devices, a plurality of interface modules, and a communication network. The plurality of interface modules is distributed throughout the fire fighting vehicle and are coupled to each other by way of the communication network. The plurality of interface modules are each coupled to the plurality of input devices and output devices. The plurality of interface modules are operative to control the output devices based on input status information from the plurality of input devices. Some of the plurality of interface modules are mounted on the chassis module and other ones of the plurality of interface modules are mounted on the cab module.

Abstract: A riding trailer apparatus useful for controlling a floor treatment implement is provided including a frame, an operator support platform, and a hook-up mechanism structured to enable the apparatus to be operably coupled to one of various, conventional floor treatment implements. The apparatus also includes a drive assembly including a bi-directional DC motor and gear assembly, and an having an electronic controller with a speed board coupled thereto.

Abstract: A baby walker includes motor-driven wheels with the motor being connected to sensors on the walker and to a remote control system. The sensors on the walker prevent the walker from colliding with objects, such as furniture or the like, and the remote control system includes hand-held or belt-worn controls that are in the possession of an adult so the adult can exert control over movement of the walker. A seat is also included so small children can be placed in the walker if desired.

Abstract: The invention is a motorized trailer wheel mounted to a trailer tongue jack which has a single power source such as 12-volt battery-powered electric motor and gear reducer. The motor drives a pinion gear which engages a circular rack mounted to the wheel. Operation of the motor is controlled by an electrical switch assembly which can switch among OFF, FORWARD, and REVERSE positions.

Abstract: A freestanding self-propelled device for moving objects. The device includes a chassis having lower frame portions and upright frame portions. A single motor-driven drive wheel is centrally located between the lateral ends of the chassis and coupled to the chassis so as to be pivotable about a substantially vertical axis. The drive wheel is located between sets of support wheels coupled to the lower frame portion of the chassis. In combination, the drive wheel and the support wheels result in the device being freestanding. The drive wheel projects below the sets of support wheels so that the device is supported by the drive wheel and by only one of each set of support wheels at any given time, thereby establishing a three-point contact with the surface supporting the device. A tiller equipped with controls is pivotably coupled to the drive wheel for pivoting the drive wheel about its vertical axis.

Abstract: A method for converting an ordinary wheelchair over to electric. The method employs a small electric scooter and fastener that are easily connected and separated for ease of transport. The result is a lightweight and low cost system having a high degree of versatility. The attachable connector between the wheel chair and the electric scooter may involve addition and or modification to the wheelchair, the scooter or both.

Abstract: An electric drive attachment for a wheelchair comprising a drive housing containing an electric motor, a drive wheel which touches the ground and drives the wheelchair through frictional contact with the ground and speed reducing mechanism between the motor and drive wheel, attachment structure to attach the wheelchair drive unit to the wheelchair as a pair of clamps one on each side of the frame. Also included are torque dampening systems to reduce the shock of starting the motor, a clutch which enables manual forward movement of a wheelchair without engagement of the motor and without dragging of the drive wheel, an under run wheel and positive pressurization of the gear works and area surrounding the drive wheel to keep the housing free of debris.

Abstract: A light portable tug including reversible wheels, a direct current motor device for driving the wheels and a drive train between such motor and wheels and including a control device for selectively rotating such wheels for controlling the direction of such Tug.

Abstract: Motor-assisted unit for moving hospital gurneys. The unit includes a gurney, a detachable power unit for propelling the gurney, and a docking unit. The motor-assisted unit is usable with a plurality of gurneys. The unit further includes a power unit, having a plurality of sockets, which are adapted to engage one of a plurality of engagement pins or a plurality of recharging pins. Additionally, the power unit is steerable and includes a power supply, at least one drive wheel, a drive system, a steering column with handle bars attached substantially perpendicular thereto, and a plurality of idler wheels. Alternatively, the motor-assisted unit employs a drive-shaft mechanism to drive a retro-fitted hospital gurney center caster wheel. A method of propelling a gurney. The method includes docking the detachable power unit with a hospital gurney and propelling the gurney. The method further includes recharging the power unit.

Abstract: A two wheeled trailer is used to propel a two wheeled vehicle such as a bicycle or a scooter. The trailer is powered by an electric motor and at least one battery. The control of the motor is through a potentiometer attached to the handlebars of the vehicle and in electrical communication with a controller. The trailer is attached to the vehicle by an attachment arm that is mounted near the rear axle of the vehicle. A coupler that allows three axes of rotation attaches the trailer to the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for propelling a user over snow. The invention in one embodiment couples a propulsion unit behind a platform such as a snowboard. The propulsion section and snowboard are interconnected by a joint providing multiple degrees of rotational freedom. Preferably, the interconnection further includes one or more springs.

Abstract: A clamping system for releasably clamping a golf trolley, to a power drive unit comprises a clamping unit adapted in use to be permanently secured to the golf trolley and comprising a clamping plate and a mounting plate, the latter having an outer face, and an inner, clamping face. An element of the golf trolley is located between the clamping face of the mounting plate and an opposed face of the clamping plate and is then clamped therebetween by tightening of manually operable stud. A first formation is provided on the outer face of the mounting plate; a second formation is provided on a top plate of a yoke of said power drive unit, with the first and second formations providing for screwless, sliding interengagement therebetween, and a locking or latching pin is manually displaceable between operative and release positions.

Abstract: A transmission for a wheelchair capable of selecting a manually operated manner and a motor-driven manner.

Abstract: To improve convenience of a wheelchair by enabling an outside fitting type of auxiliary power device to be automatically and securely mounted on and removed from the habituated wheelchair, the auxiliary power device, which can be mounted on and removed from the wheelchair and provide power assistance to the wheelchair, comprises photoelectric sensors for detecting positions of predetermined frames of the wheelchair, arms, each having a handle of a shape capable of being engaged with the frames attached to an outer end thereof, and driving motors for displacing the arms. When the frames are determined to be at predetermined positions based on information from the photoelectric sensors, the arms are displaced by the driving motors so as to have the handles engage with the frames.

Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a propulsion system is provided to assist a caregiver in moving a patient support about a care facility. The propulsion system is detachably coupled to patient support to permit storage of the propulsion system or use of propulsion system on multiple patient supports.

Abstract: A motor-assisted hand-movable cart that can have an identical cart inserted into it in a space-saving manner, whereby the cart is provided with: a drive chassis having two front casters and two back casters; a pushing device; a storage device for goods; a support section below the storage device, on which is disposed at least one running wheel that is located between the two front and the two back casters, and an electromotor drive unit, this drive unit driving the at least one running wheel; and a power source for supplying the electromotor drive unit located in a space not required by a further pushcart to be inserted into the pushcart during the insertion process.

Abstract: A modular vehicle system consisting of a rear propulsion device and a variety of different front-end assemblies that can be attached to the rear propulsion device to create different types of motorized vehicles. The rear propulsion device contains a frame, an engine mounted to that frame and a drive wheel that is driven by the engine. The front-end assemblies contain a frame, a steering fork element and a steering mechanism for turning the steering fork element. The steering fork supports either a front wheel or a ski. The frame of the front-end assembly attaches to the frame of the rear propulsion device in order to create a vehicle upon which a person can sit. At any time, the front-end assembly can be exchanged with another of a different configuration in order to change the physical characteristics of the resultant vehicle.