Abstract: A mobile frame, for instance for moving less able-bodied persons, comprising a castor with a wheel drive and pivot drive and operating means for operating the wheel drive and the pivot drive for moving the frame, wherein the operating means comprise a handle connected to the bearing structure, a force detection assembly provided on the handles and/or on the bearing frame, and which is configured for producing signals which contain information about both the size of force and the direction of force exerted on the handle, a control which is configured for energizing the pivot drive for controlling the rotational position of drive wheel support about the pivot depending on the direction of force, and wherein the control is configured for energizing the wheel drive depending on the size of force exerted on the handle.

Abstract: A dual steering system for zero turning radius lawn mowers is provided which enables those without effective use of their arms to drive and steer such lawn mowers. The system hereof may include respective left and right control pedals which are shiftably mounted to respective pedal supports coupled to the mower for use by the operator's legs, and respective linkages which operatively connect the pedals to left and right control levers operatively connected to the mower's drive wheels for causing the drive wheels to move in forward or rearward drive directions. By operating the control pedals alone or in combination with the control levers, the operator may move the zero turning radius mower forward, rearward, or steer it in a desired manner.

Abstract: A control system for a saddle-type vehicle is provided. The control system includes a reverse lever, a hand brake lever, a throttle lever and at least one mount bracket. Each of the reverse lever, the hand brake lever and the throttle lever are pivotably coupled to the at least one mount bracket and the at least one mount bracket is configured to be connected to a first one of a right handlebar and a left handlebar of a saddle-type vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a walking assistance device with detection function, which includes a movable frame, a power transmission device mounted under the frame, a detachable power unit mounted on the frame, at least one signal transmitter and at least one signal receiver for detecting the distances from a first portion and a second portion on the user's body to a correspond position of the frame respectively. According to the distances detected, a control unit sends signals to the power transmission device to maintain the distance between the user and the frame within a preset range, therefore to provide supporting forces when the user needs.

Abstract: A push mower comprises a mower main body, at least one arm extending upward toward a rear side from the mower main body, and a grip located at a tip end of the at least one arm. Each end of the grip is located on one plane side of an arm plane, a center of the grip is located on an opposite plane side of the arm plane, and therefore the grip extends so as to intersect with the arm plane. Here, the arm plane means a virtual plane on which the at least one arm is located and that is parallel to a left-to-right direction of the mower main body.

Abstract: A power steering assist system for a hand-steered pallet truck includes a joint assembly having a pivot joint, handle biasing mechanism, and a torque sensing arrangement. The pivot joint includes a pair of needle bearings and pivot pin disposed within a pivot block that provides a flexible connection between a handle and a tiller arm. The handle biasing mechanism includes a cantilevered beam spring and two cam rollers that resists an operator steering force applied to the handle and further, centers the handle with respect to the tiller arm after the force is released. The torque sensing arrangement includes a magnet and a non-contact magnetoresistive (MR) sensor that measures movement of the handle relative to the tiller arm which is used to determine operator steering intent, i.e., the amount of steering force applied to the handle. The MR sensor provides accurate torque measurements regardless of the angle of the tiller arm.

Abstract: Walk-with apparatus (101), e.g. a powered golf-caddy (101), has a reference member (18), a handle (1) adapted to be used to hold and guide the apparatus, and rotary mechanical damping means (13, 14), the handle 1 being movable in a forwards and backwards direction (103) relative to the reference member (18) to produce electric signals (104) to vary the speed of the (apparatus 101), under the effect of the damping means (13, 14) thereby to inhibit hunting. In addition to spring means (6, 8) and a DC motor controller (110) with an acceleration ramp, the damping means (13, 14) is needed to give smooth motion. The handle (1) has rotary cam means (80, 81, 90) to lock it in any position along direction (103), with a 45° rotation either way at any angle.

Abstract: A trigger 52a control apparatus is provided for operating a transmission 44 of a self-propelled mowing machine 20 via a cable 42 between a halt condition and an advancement condition. The trigger 52a control apparatus includes a housing 100, and a plurality of independently operable triggers 52a rotatably coupled to the housing 100 for movement between an engaged and a disengaged position 104. Each trigger 52a includes an operation member 108a. A cam 114 is rotatably coupled to the housing 100 about a cam rotation axis 116 and operatively coupled to the cable 42, wherein rotation of the cam 114 in a first direction relatively increases tension in the cable 42. An actuation member 138 is coupled to the cam 114 a distance from the cam rotation axis 116.

Abstract: A powered wheel chair device comprises a motorized undercarriage and a support seat for supporting a wheelchair occupant. At least one support arm is located adjacent the seat. A controller is mounted on the arm, the controller including a joystick unit within reach of the occupant. The joystick is in communication with the motorized undercarriage for driving the undercarriage. The joystick includes an upstanding post with a collar, the collar having a periphery with a number of abutment regions located therealong. A number of actuators are provided, each movable from a storage position distal to the corresponding abutment region and a deployed position adjacent the corresponding abutment region. Each actuator is responsive to an obstacle detecting sensor near a corresponding peripheral region of the undercarriage.

Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.

Abstract: A return to neutral control mechanism for a zero turning radius mower is disclosed. The return to neutral control mechanism includes a pair of control levers pivotable between forward, neutral and reverse positions. A brake pedal is moveable between a disengaged position to an engaged position. In response to engagement of the brake pedal, a control pivot attached to each control lever moves each control lever to the neutral position. The return to neutral control mechanism may include a cam that rotates in response to engagement of the brake pedal, and a control pivot that follows the cam during engagement of the brake pedal.

Abstract: The motorized wheelbarrow has longitudinally extending frame members, which extend into handle portions. Resting height adjustment of the wheelbarrow is achieved with a pair of tubular legs cooperatively attached to a wheelbarrow support strut and a support strut brace. A wheel is secured proximate the front end of the wheelbarrow to mounting points on a wheel frame. An electric motor is attached to a front portion of the support frame members underneath a load rack or load bucket, depending on the barrow type. A battery is attached under the support frame proximate the motor. A drive mechanism consisting of a chain and sprocket is operably linked to a wheel sprocket and to the electric motor. A disk brake assembly having a disk rotor and caliper is disposed on the wheel and frame for engagement with the wheel and is operably engaged to a control mechanism for safe wheelbarrow stopping.

Abstract: A transporter for transporting a subject over a surface that may be irregular. The transporter includes a support platform for supporting a load, the loaded support platform defining fore-aft and lateral planes and characterized by a load distribution. A plurality of ground contacting elements are coupled to the support platform such that the transporter is statically stable with respect to tipping in the fore-aft plane. At least one of the plurality of ground contacting elements is driven by a motorized drive arrangement. A sensor module generates a signal indicative of the load distribution. Based at least on the load distribution, a controller commands the motorized drive arrangement.

Abstract: An electronic steering assembly is disclosed for a dual motor vehicle having a first and a second motor for driving a first and a second drive wheel. The electronic steering assembly comprises a handlebar rotatably mounted relative to a base. A sensor senses the rotational position of the handlebar relative to the base. A control is interposed between the sensor and the first and second motors for powering the first and second motors in accordance with the rotational position of the handlebars for steering the dual motor vehicle through the rotational movement of the handlebar.

Abstract: A power wheel chair is disclosed having an improved motion control comprising a frame having a seat for transporting an occupant. A right and a left caster wheel are located in proximity to a front frame end. A right and a left drive wheel are located in proximity to a rear frame end. A motor drives the right and left drive wheels through a differential gearbox. A right and a left handle are connected to frame for enabling an attendant to steer the power wheel chair. An electronic control has a control lever located in proximity to one of the right and left handles for enabling the attendant to control the speed and braking of the power wheel chair.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a work unit with power turning. The work unit includes a frame having a first end, a second end and left and right sides that extend between the first and second ends. A work element is carried by the frame. A left propulsion element is positioned at the left side of the frame and a right propulsion element is positioned at the right side of the frame. A drive arrangement is carried by the frame for driving the left and right propulsion elements. The work unit also includes left and right spaced-apart leverage arms that project outwards from the second end of the frame. At least one of the left and right leverage arms is operatively connected to the drive arrangement such that pressure applied by an operator to the left or right leverage arms in a left or right direction causes the drive arrangement to turn the work unit.

Abstract: A powered patient transport vehicle is disclosed having an improved motion control comprising a frame extending between a first end and a second end. A first and a second caster wheel are located in proximity to the first end of the frame. A first and a second drive wheel are located in proximity to the second end of the frame. A motor drives the first and second drive wheels through a differential gearbox. An electronic control has a control lever for controlling the speed, direction and braking of the motor. A seat is mounted to the frame for transporting an occupant. A steering bar is coupled to the powered patient transport vehicle for steering the powered patient transport vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle including a linkage-based motion control system for varying a parameter (e.g., velocity) of the vehicle as a geometric relationship between a vehicle input (e.g., velocity control lever) and a vehicle output (e.g., drive train) is modified. In one embodiment, the control system provides a linkage that allows a fixed level of input applied to the control lever to produce a repeatable output to a variable drive unit even as the drive unit is moved relative to the control lever.

Abstract: A vehicle including a linkage-based motion control system for varying a parameter (e.g., velocity) of the vehicle as a geometric relationship between a vehicle input (e.g., velocity control lever) and a vehicle output (e.g., drive train) is modified. In one embodiment, the control system provides a linkage that allows a fixed level of input applied to the control lever to produce a repeatable output to a variable drive unit even as the drive unit is moved relative to the control lever. In another embodiment, an adjustable stop for use with setting a terminal position of a control lever (e.g., a velocity control lever) is provided. Accordingly, the maximum potential speed of the vehicle may be adjusted (e.g., reduced) without altering the speed of the vehicle engine.

Abstract: A three wheeled cart for transporting heavy rolls of paper to and from unwinders and reminders. The operator stands at the rear end where he can start and stop the cart, steer it, and control the carriage at the front end for lifting the paper roll from the floor and/or into a processing machine. The steerable rear wheel is driven electrically from a twist type throttle on a steering handle that can be moved from an active position to a stowed position. In the stowed position the cart is secured by the same motor-brake that drives the single rear wheel.

Abstract: Retractable line guidance for a self-propelled machine, such as a self-propelled lawn mower, is provided by an operator moving a string or line to control the speed and direction of movement of the machine. A retractable and extendable line is mounted on the machine and is under tension in a retraction direction when the line is extended. A length of extension of the line is monitored, and a speed of movement of the machine is controlled in response to the length of extension of the line to maintain the length of extension of the line at a selected length. An angle of the line with respect to the machine is monitored, and a direction of movement of the machine is controlled in response to the angle of the line to maintain the angle of the line at a selected angle.

Abstract: A beach cart system for transporting goods between locations is provided. The beach cart system comprises a lower cart portion having a first recessed area and a second recessed area. An upper cart portion having at least one storage bay is receivable within the first recessed area. A front cart portion having at least one insulated cup holder is receivable within the second recessed area. A plurality of wheels is secured to the lower cart portion. A motor is secured to the lower cart portion for driving the wheels. A handle for steering the beach cart system is attached to the lower cart portion and has controls for controlling operation of the motor.

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.

Abstract: A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support.

Abstract: A self-propelled stroller apparatus comprising a motor, a drive train, a braking mechanism, and a set of hand controls, is herein disclosed. Two (2) rear wheels of the stroller are driven by a battery-powered motor utilizing a chain-driven drive train. The motor is controlled by a handlebar-mounted control lever, which when pushed motivates the stroller in a forward direction. During times when the motor and drive train are deactivated, the stroller may be pushed in a normal manner. The apparatus is additionally provided with an emergency braking system to stop or securely park the stroller. The battery is recharged by a normal household outlet and an electrical cord when the stroller is not in use.

Abstract: A construction vehicle includes an engine, a hydraulic pump configured to be driven by the engine, a traveling hydraulic motor configured to be driven by pressured oil discharged by the hydraulic pump, a traveling wheel configured to be driven by driving force of the traveling hydraulic motor, and a control unit configured to control a vehicle velocity and a traction force by controlling rotation speed of the engine, capacity of the hydraulic pump, and capacity of the traveling hydraulic motor. In addition, the control unit is further configured to perform slip reduction control for reducing the maximum rotation speed of the engine as the vehicle velocity becomes slow in a low-velocity range in which the vehicle velocity is less than or equal to a predetermined velocity.

Abstract: A drive hand-control system (6) mainly located at a lawn mower handle arrangement (5) intended for guidance of the lawn mower by an operator, the lawn mower having at least one power unit for driving at least one propulsion member and a cutting member, a drive arrangement for transmitting drive force to the at least one propulsion member and an operator presence control (7) located at the lawn mower handle arrangement (5) preferably for hand engagement by the operator, the drive hand-control system (6) comprising a drive engagement control (8) having at least two positions, where a first position disengages the drive of the at least one propulsion member and a second position engages the drive of the at least one propulsion member, and the drive engagement control (8) being switchable between the at least two positions by the operator, and the first position and the second position of the drive engagement control (8) being stable positions, which are stable without any effort from the operator, except for the

Abstract: A powered load-moving tractor unit for moving a wheeled load comprises a tractor body with two powered ground-engaging tractor wheels steerable by a tiller and a draw bar for connecting the tractor body to the load through a releasable load hitch. To steer the load, the tractor body can be moved pivotally about a vertical axis relative to the draw bar. That vertical axis is defined by the two halves of a turntable mounted on the tractor body directly over the axis of rotation of the steerable ground-engaging wheels. The draw bar is rigidly connected over the top half of the turntable and extends down the front of the tractor body to the load hitch. The load hitch comprises telescopically inter-engageable elements on the draw bar and the load, and a latch mechanism that is remotely releasable from the end of the draw bar remote from the load hitch.

Abstract: A mobile frame, for instance for moving less able-bodied persons, comprising a castor with a wheel drive and pivot drive and operating means for operating the wheel drive and the pivot drive for moving the frame, wherein the operating means comprise a handle connected to the bearing structure, a force detection assembly provided on the handles and/or on the bearing frame, and which is configured for producing signals which contain information about both the size of force and the direction of force exerted on the handle, a control which is configured for energizing the pivot drive for controlling the rotational position of drive wheel support about the pivot depending on the direction of force, and wherein the control is configured for energizing the wheel drive depending on the size of force exerted on the handle.

Abstract: A motorized wheeled vehicle caddy for pushing or pulling one or more wheeled vehicles can be used to move and/or maneuver the vehicle(s) to different locations and positions. The vehicle caddy includes a hitch mechanism to attach the vehicle to the caddy, a suspension mechanism to align the caddy and vehicle when connecting the two, a steering mechanism to guide the movement of the caddy and attached vehicle, and a power drive mechanism to move the caddy and attached vehicle. Being compact in size and lightweight, the motorized wheeled vehicle caddy is also convenient for use in areas with limited space.

Abstract: A mobile body includes a string body that can be pulled out from and retracted into a main body, a length measurement device configured to measure a pull-out length by which the string body is pulled out, and an angle measurement device configured to measure an angle of the string body with respect to the main body. A drive unit is controlled on the basis of the results of the measurements performed by the length measurement device and the angle measurement device.

Abstract: A handle structure of a walk-behind working machine includes: a handle having left and right raised portions extending upward from a handle frame and a cross portion interconnecting the left and right raised portions; and a main clutch lever shiftable from a clutch-OFF position to a clutch-ON position by being pivoted into pressed abutment against the cross portion. The main clutch lever is constructed in such a manner that, when the main clutch lever is in abutment against the cross portion, a space for allowing a human operator to grip the left and right raised portions is secured between the left and right raised portions and the main clutch lever.

Abstract: An advanced control for a powered hand truck. The powered hand truck includes an electric motor, a power source, a programable motor controller, and a transaxle, which are adaptable to existing hand trucks, or may be integrated into a new powered hand truck. The motor controller controls the motor to provide consistent speed independent of load weight or incline, and further provides regenerative braking. The advanced control may be wired or wireless and provides a touch sensitive circuit to command stop if the operator is not holding the handle, and an electronic potentiometer. The wireless control further includes a unique code for validating speed commands and initiates deceleration if the control signal is lost.

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 drawbar unit for a drawbar governed floor conveyor, in which a drawbar head is coupled to a vertical steering shaft, which optionally co-operates with a swiveling angle transmitter for an electronic steeling of the floor conveyor, wherein the steering shaft can be rotatably and axially fixedly mounted in a stationary bearing arrangement of the floor conveyor, wherein the drawbar head is connected to the upper end of a longitudinal guiding member, on which an upper portion of the steering shaft is axially guided, a lever is pivotably mounted on the guiding member, which engages with one arm into an axis parallel guiding channel on the steeling shaft such that a rotary union is produced, and an adjustment means mechanism acts on the lever in order to selectively bring the arm into clamping engagement with the steering shaft and to couple guiding member and steering shaft even axially.

Abstract: An implement with two independent transmissions drives a common output shaft. Each transmission is configured to rotatably drive the output shaft in a different direction to simplify changing the ground direction of the implement. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, the transmissions are actuated by levers that provide infinitely variability of the implement's ground speed.

Abstract: A cart apparatus includes a frame for receiving game. The frame includes a pair of side supports and a plurality of lateral supports that are attached to and extend between the side supports. A netting material is attached to the frame and extends between the side supports. An axle is rotatably coupled to the frame. The axle extends between the side supports and has a pair of opposite ends. A pair of wheels is attached to the axle. Each of the wheels is positioned adjacent to one of the opposite ends. A motor is mounted to the frame. A drive shaft is mechanically coupled to the motor and to the axle. The motor rotates the wheels when the drive shaft is engaged.

Abstract: A transporter for transporting a subject over a surface that may be irregular. The transporter includes a support platform for supporting a load, the loaded support platform defining fore-aft and lateral planes and characterized by a load distribution. A plurality of ground contacting elements are coupled to the support platform such that the transporter is statically stable with respect to tipping in the fore-aft plane. At least one of the plurality of ground contacting elements is driven by a motorized drive arrangement. A sensor module generates a signal indicative of the local distribution. Based at least on the load distribution, a controller commands the motorized drive arrangement.

Abstract: A motorized wheel barrow includes a storage pan, a handle assembly, an electrical control assembly, and a wheel assembly with an axle transversely spanning across a width of the storage pan and coupled to the handle assembly while remaining spaced from the storage pan. The device further includes a mechanism for automatically generating a torque at the wheel assembly to thereby selectively propel the motorized wheel barrow along first and second opposed directions based upon first and second user inputs respectively.

Abstract: An electric golf bag cart includes a cart body unit having at least one first engaging portion, a pair of rear wheel units connected to the cart body unit, an electrically operable power front wheel unit coupled to the cart body unit and electrically operable to cooperate with the rear wheel units for moving the cart body unit on a ground surface, and a battery unit having at least one second engaging portion that is coupled detachably to the first engaging portion of the cart body unit, and connected electrically to the power front wheel unit.

Abstract: An electric outdoor power machine includes a machine body supported by wheels and having an output member driven by a motor. The motor is powered by a source of electrical power such as a battery. An upright assembly extends from the machine body and has a gripping handle. A manual input member such as a bail handle is mounted adjacent to the gripping handle and is movable relative to the gripping handle between a deactivated position and an activated position. A control assembly that selectively communicates electric power to the output member includes a button supported by a housing on the upright assembly. The button is movable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. A button crank is coupled to the button and has an interface portion.

Abstract: The present subject matter discloses devices and methods for controlling the operation of a lawnmower or other walk-behind power machines without the use of a bail or operator presence control. A control device for a walk-behind machine can include a handle for a walk-behind machine, a sliding cam movable within the handle, a cable connected to the sliding cam and to a machine control component of the walk-behind machine, and an actuator movably attached to the handle. Movement of the actuator against a cam surface of the sliding cam can move the sliding cam within the handle to move the cable and operate the machine control component.

Abstract: A mobile body includes a string body that can be pulled out from and retracted into a main body, a length measurement device configured to measure a pull-out length by which the string body is pulled out, and an angle measurement device configured to measure an angle of the string body with respect to the main body. A drive unit is controlled on the basis of the results of the measurements performed by the length measurement device and the angle measurement device.

Abstract: A drive wheel steering system for a lawnmower has a handle bar assembly that is pivotal about a vertical axis to provide directional control of the mower and rotatable about a horizontal axis to provide speed control of the mower. A control bar is operable to set a desired forward speed of the mower via engagement of a cam and the linkage assembly providing directional and speed control for the mower.

Abstract: An industrial truck and a method for its delivery are proposed, the mobile base of the industrial truck being transported to the delivery destination on a load transport vehicle. At the delivery destination, an operating device that is also supplied is used as a mobile operating device for issuing control instructions for the traction operations of the base vehicle, in order to drive the base vehicle with its own drive units off the load transport vehicle over a ramp or the like and thus to set it down.

Abstract: A floor cleaning machine having a speed control and steering member which operates under operator-applied deformation thereof. The invention provides improved consumer convenience at steering and/or speed control.

Abstract: Carts capable of conversion between a powered-pull mode, a powered-ride mode, and a non-powered-pull mode are shown and described. In one embodiment, a cart comprises a platform have a seat-receptacle. A cooler is configured to be positionable in the seat-receptacle. A walled chamber is also positioned on the platform. The cart also includes at least one wheel in functional communication with a drive capable of rotating the wheel. The cart also includes a handle-system having a first operable position configured to allow a user seated inside the cart to control the drive, and a second operable position configured to allow a user walking in front of the cart to control the drive. The cart is further configured to be capable of rolling freely when the drive is off or disengaged.

Abstract: The invention is a transporter for moving a rolltainer, a trolley, and various other multi-wheeled containers that roll on a surface. The transporter utilizes lever-assisted rotating forks to lift and position the container to provide maximum traction, stability, and safety. The transporter utilizes hub motors for increased maneuverability and to eliminate drivetrain elements. The transporter is configured to keep transporter structure between the operator and the load during al operative modes to maximize operator safety.

Abstract: A control system for a BBC on a mower comprises a pivotal bail and a pivotal housing that is linked to the BBC. If a push member on the housing is pushed inwardly from the side of the housing before the bail is pivoted, then a pin moves to a blocking position behind the bail. Subsequent pivoting of the bail will pivot the housing to actuate the BBC. A channel in the housing frictionally grips the bail to prevent rebound of the bail when a spring force resets the housing and the bail to their initial positions after the operator releases the bail. Movement of the push member also closes an interlock switch which will kill operation of the engine if a grass discharge outlet on the mower is uncovered.

Abstract: The game/supply carrier provides a single-wheel, motorized cart adapted to transport game. The cart is designed with a low center of gravity to enhance stability when loaded and used on rugged an uneven terrain. Throttle and brake controls are disposed on the cart's handles for easy access. An array of straps is provided to form baskets on opposite sides of the cart. The baskets are designed to contain and “tie down” the game's quarters whereby most of the load is carried below the top of the wheel to improve cart maneuverability.