Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are pivotally connected to the frame at a common pivot axis such that the drive assembly and the front caster pivot arm are pivotable relative to one another.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for setting or modifying a programmable operating parameter associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) operating a user interface device associated with a power driven wheelchair in a programming mode, b) selecting a programmable operating parameter associated with operation of the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device, c) selecting a value for the programmable operating parameter using the user interface device, and d) saving the selected value for the programmable operating parameter in a portion of a storage device associated with the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device. A method and apparatus for selecting one or more programmable parameter sets from a portable storage medium and saving the selected sets to a local storage device associated with a power driven wheelchair and vice versa is also provided.

Abstract: A wheelchair type robot for use as a walking aid wherein an outer skeleton to be worn on the lower body of a user is combined with a lift and a drive part in a wheelchair form. The drive part is furnished with a drive motor and wheels that are installed on a main frame. The lift is furnished with an outer linear guide that is fixed and joined with the main frame, an inner linear guide that can move up and down along same, an upper chair part that connects with the inner linear guide to enable up and down motion, and a lower chair part that connects with the outer linear guide such that unfolds if the inner linear guide descends and folds if it ascends.

Abstract: A multi-terrain motorized wheelchair apparatus is disclosed that comprises a seating assembly for supporting a user in a seated position, a track assembly with the seating assembly being pivotable with respect to the track assembly. The track assembly includes a pair of track units positioned on opposite sides of the seating assembly. The apparatus comprises a seating orientation adjustment assembly configured to adjust an orientation of the seating assembly with respect to the track assembly. The apparatus includes at least one drive assembly mounted on the seating assembly and which has at least one drive shaft structure connected to the track units to drive the track units. The seating assembly is supported on the track units of the track assembly by the drive shaft structure.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a controller for a wheelchair. The controller includes a joystick for controlling the speed and direction of the wheelchair. A housing of the controller has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface has a weight bearing portion configured to support a user's weight when the user places at least a portion of his or her hand on the weight bearing portion to facilitate entering or exiting the wheelchair.

Abstract: A user-operated mobility apparatus includes a base unit having a drive assembly and wheels mounted thereto for enabling selective movement of the base unit along a surface. A plurality of support members extend from the base unit, define an interior area therebetween that is configured to receive a user, and each includes a plurality of spaced-apart engagement features for releasably engaging at least one accessory at various different positions along the support member. A user support assembly is mounted adjacent the free ends of the support members and includes a support cord extending into the interior area. The support cord is configured for releasably engaging a user to support the user within interior area.

Abstract: A conveyance such as a wheelchair that includes a seat assembly and a chassis. The chassis comprises a central frame member disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair. The central frame member includes portions for connecting to or supporting one or more front casters, a seat assembly, one or more drive wheel assemblies, an energy source (e.g., one or more batteries), rear anti-tip wheels, and/or at least one footplate. The central frame member is disposed substantially along the centerline of the wheelchair and structurally distributes of the weight of the seat assembly (and optionally the weight of the energy source) to the supporting drive wheels and casters. In this manner, a clean-looking, simple, and lightweight chassis structure is provided for a conveyance.

Abstract: A controller for a motorised vehicle is provided which is arranged to receive control signals from a user input device and the controller is configured to control a motor arrangement of the motorised vehicle in dependence on the control signals. The controller comprises an acceleration control unit configured to determine a centripetal force factor corresponding to a centripetal force which is currently acting on said motorised vehicle as a result of the control signals and is configured to calculate an acceleration limit for the motorised vehicle in dependence on the centripetal force factor. The acceleration control unit is configured to apply the acceleration limit by modifying a response of the controller to the control signals, such that the motorised vehicle does not exceed the acceleration limit.

Abstract: A power wheelchair with guard for playing sports for eliminating G-Force effects and improving safety. The power wheelchair with guard for playing sports includes a frame assembly; a mobility system including drive wheels and casters upon which the frame assembly is mounted and also including a motor and a power control module for actuating the drive wheels; a seat assembly being secured to the frame assembly and including a seat support member and a seat; and a guard assembly being attached to the frame assembly and extending forwardly thereof.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement for a wheelchair wheel that has a running wheel with a hub and a hand rim includes a running wheel fastening arrangement that is fastened to the running wheel, a hand rim fastening arrangement that is fastened to the hand rim and at least one sensor that detects a movement of the hand rim fastening arrangement relative to the running wheel fastening arrangement. Two restoring elements are provided on the running wheel fastening arrangement and rest against the hand rim arrangement with a prestressing force at least in the zero position. Both restoring elements rest against at least one stop of the running wheel fastening arrangement in the zero position of the sensor arrangement.

Abstract: A wheelchair suspension is provided. The wheelchair suspension includes a frame, a front caster pivot arm, a drive assembly, and a rear caster. The front caster pivot arm is pivotally connected to the frame. The front caster is coupled to a front end of the front caster pivot arm. The drive assembly is pivotally connected to the front caster pivot arm. The drive assembly comprises a drive wheel and a motor that drives the drive wheel. Torquing of the drive wheel by the motor in a forward direction causes the drive assembly to pivot with respect to the front caster pivot arm such that the drive wheel moves forward toward the front caster and a distance between a support surface and the connection between of the drive assembly and the front caster pivot arm increases.

Abstract: The present invention provides a universal single switch driving system for power wheelchairs, which can be attached to any wheelchair joystick and remotely controlled, by any single switch available for persons with disabilities.

Abstract: A universal steering and charger system is disclosed for a dual motor vehicle comprising a socket having socket terminals. A coupling defines a socket insert having socket insert terminals. A sensor is connected to the socket insert terminals with a hand control enabling an operator to manipulate the sensor. The socket insert is receivable within the socket for electrically connecting the socket insert to the socket. A motor drive control is connected to the socket for powering the first and second motors from a storage battery for steering the dual motor vehicle. A mast has mast terminals connected to a low voltage power source. The coupling is removable from the socket for enabling insertion of the mast into the socket for charging the storage battery. A plurality of sockets may be mounted at multiple location on the dual motor vehicle for steering the dual motor vehicle from multiple locations on the dual motor vehicle.

Abstract: A front wheel drive powered wheelchair is provided and may include a support frame, a pair of opposing drive wheels, a pair of drives, and a pair of rear wheels. The frame may include a front portion, a seat post, and two independent arms extending rearward from the front portion. Each drive wheel may be coupled to the front portion of the frame. Each drive may be mounted to the front portion of the frame and may be operatively connected to a respective drive wheel of the pair of drive wheels. Each rear wheel may be coupled to a respective independent arm of the support frame. Each independent arm may be capable of flexing independent of the other.

Abstract: A wheelchair attachment for powering a wheelchair is described. An attachment for a conventional wheelchair converts a non-motorized wheelchair into a motorized wheelchair. The attachment may also act as an anti-tipping device.

Abstract: A personal electric motorized vehicle, a controller for controlling operation of the vehicle, and methods of controlling the vehicle are provided. The vehicle may include a weight determination device for determining a weight of an operator and a controller for controlling operation of the vehicle based on the weight of the operator. A method of controlling the vehicle may include determining a weight of an operator, communicating the weight to a controller, and controlling operation of the vehicle with the controller based on the weight of the operator.

Abstract: The present invention provides a suspension for a conveyance that is capable of traversing obstacles and rough terrain. The suspension includes a frame, a pivot arm, a front caster, a drive assembly and a rear caster. The pivot arm and the drive assembly are coupled and decoupled based on movement of the drive assembly.

Abstract: Wheelchairs in various embodiments include a variable-position drive system that can automatically move the drive wheels fore and aft through an approximately 41 cm range. Such a system provides all the benefits of front-, mid-, and rear-wheel drive configurations in a single wheelchair, for example, to adjust the drive wheels toward the rear for stability and speed outdoors and toward the center for maneuverability indoors. The performance-optimal placement of drive wheels often depends on the physical environment (e.g., terrain), on the combined center of mass of the wheelchair and user, and on the user's cognitive functioning, trunk stability, and driving skills. One disclosed embodiment includes a pair of mid-position drive wheels that can automatically be repositioned forward or backward to accommodate changes in terrain and center of mass, which will improve the power wheelchair's stability and maneuverability and, consequently, safety and ease of use in a wider range of scenarios.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for setting or modifying a programmable operating parameter associated with a power driven wheelchair is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes: a) operating a user interface device associated with a power driven wheelchair in a programming mode, b) selecting a programmable operating parameter associated with operation of the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device, c) selecting a value for the programmable operating parameter using the user interface device, and d) saving the selected value for the programmable operating parameter in a portion of a storage device associated with the power driven wheelchair using the user interface device. A method and apparatus for selecting one or more programmable parameter sets from a portable storage medium and saving the selected sets to a local storage device associated with a power driven wheelchair and vice versa is also provided.

Abstract: A wheelchair suspension comprises a frame, at least one pivot arm, at least one front caster, at least one rear caster, a stabilizing system, and a sensor. The pivot arm is coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. The rear caster is coupled to the frame. The stabilizing system is coupled to the frame and the pivot arm. The sensor is arranged such that movement of the frame relative to the rear castor causes actuation of the stabilizing system to at least partially resist further movement of the frame.

Abstract: Provided is a personal mobility device comprising a frame including two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupleable to the frame, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second angled position, and further wherein the main mobility wheels are configured such that a kneeling occupant may propel the personal mobility device using the main mobility wheels.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a lightweight, portable, electric vehicle having a novel steering mechanism, a low profile suspension and drive mechanism, and which also provides a superior ride quality, handling, and drivability. The vehicle generally comprises a frame and at least one suspension and motor assembly. Each suspension and motor assembly includes at least one leaf spring mounted to the frame, a motor connected to the leaf spring, the motor having a drive shaft, and a wheel rotatably connected to the drive shaft. The vehicle also includes means for powering the motor and means for controlling to enable a user to drive the vehicle.

Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, and a front pivot arm pivotally mounted to the frame at a front pivot point, the front pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A rear pivot arm is pivotally mounted to the frame at a rear pivot point, the rear pivot arm having a caster for supporting the frame. A ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction.

Abstract: A wheelchair including a seat body and at least one wheel module disposed at a bottom of the seat body is provided. The wheel module includes a motor, at least one wheel, and a transmission unit coupled between the motor and the wheel. The transmission unit has at least one one-way bearing. The motor outputs a first rotating moment and a second rotating moment with opposite directions to the transmission unit. The one-way bearing transmits one of the first rotating moment and the second rotating moment to the wheel to drive the wheel to roll, such that the seat body is in linear motion, or so the wheel module rotates relative to the seat body in the directions of the first or the second rotating moments. The shafts of the first and the second rotating moments are perpendicular to the rotating shaft of the wheel.

Abstract: The invention concerns a seat tilt apparatus (3) for an electric wheelchair, which wheelchair comprises a chassis (1) and a seat (2). The seat tilt apparatus comprises; a base member (11), which is fixable to the chassis and provided with at least one first guide slot (16); a seat supporting member (40) which is arranged to supportably receive the seat, movable in relation to the base member and guided by the first guide slot; and a linear drive means (17) which is connected to the base member and to the seat supporting member, for moving the seat supporting member along a motion path, in relation to the base member.

Abstract: An auxiliary drive assembly for wheelchairs is revealed. The auxiliary drive assembly includes a wired transmission member, at least one sensor, a control circuit and a drive unit. The wired transmission member is arranged at a wheel hub on a wheel. The sensor is set on the wheel for generating a sensing signal sent to the wired transmission member. The control circuit is coupled to the wired transmission member, receiving the sensing signal and generating a control signal. The drive unit is coupled to the control circuit and receiving the control signal so as to drive the wheel hub rotating and further move the wheel. Thereby the assembly is with simple structure and the environmental interference is minimized by wired signal transmission. The sensing signal is sent to the control circuit exactly and the drive unit is controlled to rotate the wheel precisely. The wired transmission reduces the cost.

Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The wheelchair seat can be moved forward to provide access to the batteries without fully removing the wheelchair from the frame.

Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.

Abstract: Configurations are provided for vehicular robots or other vehicles to provide shifting of their centers of gravity for enhanced obstacle navigation. Various head and neck morphologies are provided to allow positioning for various poses such as a stowed pose, observation poses, and inspection poses. Neck extension and actuator module designs are provided to implement various head and neck morphologies. Robot control network circuitry is also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for wheelchair control. The position and distance of a touch point on a touch pad is used to set speed and wheel differential control. The two major wheels of the wheelchair are controlled according to these set quantities. Exceeding either of two horizontal accelerations measured by an accelerometer limits the set speed. Wheelchair control is shut down upon exceeding a vertical acceleration limit.

Abstract: Each wheel (10, 14/20, 24) of the wheelchair (1) is fixed to a suspension arm (11,15/21, 25). A force transmitting device, for example a spring and damper of the wheelchair unit, directly connects two suspension arms situated on the same side of the wheeled conveyance, so that forces exerted on one of the wheels are transmitted to the other wheel. In this way, obstacles can more conveniently be overcome. A further advantage of the wheelchair is that it can be easily upscaled and driving properties can be adjusted according to a user's preferences.

Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, a chair, a pair of drive wheels, a pair of rear wheels, and a pair of front wheels. Each front wheel is part of a front arm assembly that is rigidly coupled to a drive via a mounting plate. The mounting plate is connected to the wheelchair frame by a pivot. The drives are transversely mounted. The batteries are disposed rearward of the drives. The wheelchair seat can be moved forward to provide access to the batteries without fully removing the wheelchair from the frame.

Abstract: A wheel set structure of an electric wheelchair is disclosed to include a wheelchair frame, which defines a first steering direction and a second steering direction reversed to the first steering direction, at least one swinging mechanism pivotally mounted on the wheelchair frame each having a swinging member and a wheel holder, at least one transmission wheel assembly connected to the swinging member each having a motor and a driving wheel coupled to and rotatable by the motor, and at least one first wheel assembly mounted on the wheel holder each pivotally holding a wheel. When the at least one swinging member is biased relative to the at least one wheelchair frame, the at least one first wheel assembly is biased with the at least one swinging member so that the elevation of the wheel of each first wheel assembly and the elevation of the driving wheel of each transmission wheel assembly are relatively changed at a constant ratio.

Abstract: A suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame, at least one drive assembly and at least one caster pivot arm. The at least one drive assembly and the at least one caster pivot arm are coupled to enhance the vehicle's ability to traverse obstacles.

Abstract: A vehicle having a plurality of wheels and elements, to drive at least one wheel to propel the vehicle is provided with a frame and a power supply assembly for delivering power to the drive elements. The power supply assembly includes a battery and a housing structure surrounding the battery. The power supply assembly is removeably supported on the vehicle frame. A latching mechanism is provided having a pivoting actuator. The actuator moves between a locking position and a release position. The actuator movement displacing a pin disposed in combination with the housing between a locking position, wherein the pin fixedly engages the power supply assembly to the frame, and a release position, wherein the pin disengages and permits the power supply assembly to be removed from the frame.

Abstract: An electric wheelchair that enables users suffering from impairment of the lower extremities due to paralysis or weakness caused by aging to manage their daily lives independently for social rehabilitation by allowing them to raise and lower the seat of the wheelchair between squatting and standing positions, to support their body weight at any position by stopping the chair, and to operate the movement of the wheel chair by using their arms or elbows pressed on either the inner or outer surfaces of the armrests even if both hands are occupied or impaired.

Abstract: An anti-tip system is provided for improving the stability of a powered vehicle, such as a powered wheelchair. The vehicle includes a drive-train assembly pivotally mounted to a main structural frame. A suspension system biases the drive-train assembly and its connected anti-tip wheel to a predetermined resting position. The drive-train assembly bi-directionally rotates about a pivot in response to torque applied to or acceleration forces on the vehicle. A linkage arrangement is provided and is characterized by a suspension arm pivotally mounting to the main structural frame about a pivot at one end thereof and an anti-tip wheel at the other end. The linkage may further include at least one link operable to transfer the bi-directional displacement of the drive-train assembly to the suspension arm. The link may include a bell crank member and/or may be resiliently compressible.

Abstract: A wheelchair base including a base frame and a pair of pivot arm assemblies each including a first pivot arm and a second pivot arm, pivotally coupled to each other for pivotal movement about a transverse pivot axis. The pivot arms defining first and second auxiliary wheel attachments opposed to the transverse pivot axis for attaching first and second end auxiliary wheels. Each pivot arm assembly including a link pivotally coupled to the second pivot arm intermediate the transverse pivot axis and the second auxiliary wheel attachment for pivotal movement about a link axis substantially parallel to the transverse pivot axis forming a drive wheel attachment intermediate the auxiliary wheel attachments. The pivot arm assemblies are mounted to the base frame substantially laterally opposed to each other through the link and first pivot arm such that the pivot arm assemblies are independently pivotable relative to the base frame.

Abstract: A wheelchair includes a pivoting drive assembly having a drive wheel, a motor drive connected to the drive wheel, and a first pivoting linkage fixedly attached to the motor drive. The pivoting drive assembly is pivotally coupled to a frame at a first frame pivot axis such that the drive wheel, motor drive, and first pivoting linkage pivot about the first frame pivot axis as a unit. The wheelchair further includes a second pivoting linkage and a front caster assembly. The second pivoting linkage is pivotally coupled to the frame at a second frame pivot axis. The first pivoting linkage is pivotally coupled to the front caster assembly at a first front caster pivot axis and the second pivoting linkage is pivotally coupled to the front caster assembly at a second front caster pivot axis.

Abstract: A wheelchair suspension is provided. The wheelchair suspension includes a frame, a pivot arm, a front caster, a drive assembly, and a rear caster. The pivot arm is pivotally coupled to the frame. The front caster is coupled to the pivot arm. Movement of the drive assembly in a first direction causes the pivot arm to substantially remain in a first position. Movement of the drive assembly in a second direction urges the pivot arm away from the first position.

Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising a frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupled to the front structure, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position.

Abstract: An all-terrain vehicle having a unique suspension system for enabling handicapped individuals or invalids to easily access the vehicle and be self-transportable over ground or an ice surface.

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: According to the invention, the wheelchair is characterized in that it includes means to incline the whole seat structure, and inclining means that are interposed between the chassis and the lifting means and that include at least: a base (65) that is attached to the chassis (1) and that oscillates around a more-or-less horizontal axis, and on which the lifting means are fitted, and a mechanical assistance means that is interposed between the base (65) and the chassis (1) and that is designed to allow modification of the slope of the whole seat structure by rotation of the base (65).

Abstract: The vehicle, for example a stand-up wheelchair, comprises a frame (11) and, arranged on the latter, a seat device (19). On each side of the frame (11), the central wheel (13), which can be driven by a motor (27), and the front wheel (15) are operatively connected to each other by an endless chain (45). The frame (11) has a front part (21) and a rear part (23), which are connected to each other in an articulated manner by way of a joint (25). In the sitting position, the front wheels (15) are not in contact with the ground, which means that they do not obstruct the manoeuvring of the vehicle in a confined space. In the standing position, the front wheels (15) are in contact with the ground, but the central wheels (13) are not. The user, in the standing position, is thus able to turn about the axis of the vehicle, without the central wheels (13) having a blocking action.

Abstract: A personal mobility vehicle includes an base unit having a frame and front and rear pivot arms pivotally mounted at respective front and rear pivot points. The front and rear pivot arms support casters. A drive unit having a ground engaging mid-wheel drive wheel is connected to the frame. A linkage connects the front and rear pivot arms to each other in a manner such that an upward or downward rotation of one of the pivot arms about its pivot point causes rotation of the other pivot arm about its pivot point in an opposite rotational direction. The base unit may also include a drive unit that is pivotally supported on the base unit by a torque arm and a suspension system that includes a suspension stop. The torque arm selectively disengages the suspension stop to allow movement of the front caster wheel in response to the terrain traversed.

Abstract: A device for transporting a physically impaired person includes a support frame member having electric motors secured thereto for operating rear drive wheels; a stabilizing plate for maintaining the position of the support frame member when lifting a physically impaired person, the stabilizing plate being positioned via an electric motor operating a linear actuator; and opposite lifting arms rotationally extended from the support frame member via electric motors operating linear actuators, the lifting arms ultimately placing a physically impaired person upon or removing the impaired person from an inclinable seat member secured to the support frame member.

Abstract: A system for providing an automated axial force to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in a wheelchair. An electronic transmission control receives one or more input signals generated by throttle position or other variables. The microprocessor generates an output signal that adjusts the axial force applied to a CVT thereby automatically adjusting the input to output ratio. The invention also provides a manually controlled variator is designed for use on a wheelchair. The manual shifter hydraulically adjusts an axial force imparted on a variator in communication with a wheelchair wheel and a hand rim. Application of the axial force causes the hand rim input and wheelchair wheel output ratio to change, permitting a wheelchair operator to manually adjust the input to output ratio to more easily operate the wheelchair.

Abstract: Configurations are provided for vehicular robots or other vehicles to provide shifting of their centers of gravity for enhanced obstacle navigation. Various head and neck morphologies are provided to allow positioning for various poses such as a stowed pose, observation poses, and inspection poses. Neck extension and actuator module designs are provided to implement various head and neck morphologies. Robot control network circuitry is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to a control system for controlling a wheelchair having movable parts. The control system comprises a controller and a number of actuators for effectuating movements of the movable parts. The controller comprises a mathematical model of the kinematics of the movable parts and their respective at least one actuator, means for receiving an input signal from one or more of the actuators, and means for setting, based on the mathematical model, limiting positions of the actuators in response to the determined input signal. The invention also relates to a corresponding wheelchair and method of controlling a wheelchair.