Wheelchair Type Patents (Class 280/250.1)
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Patent number: 9045029Abstract: A vehicle axle, in particular a torsion beam axle for an electric vehicle, with at least one trailing arm on which is arranged a drive unit located close to a wheel, and the drive unit comprises an electric machine and a transmission unit. The drive unit, close to the wheel, has at least one supply line and at least one damper such that the drive unit, close to the wheel, is formed at least partially as a trailing arm and the damper is connected, on at least one side, to the drive unit at least in a single-shear manner and can be connected, on at least the other side, to a body of the electric vehicle. The at least one vehicle axle is utilized on a motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Ulrich Mair, Stephan Pollmeyer, Martin Munster
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Publication number: 20150137474Abstract: A wheelchair includes a pivotable mechanism. The pivotable mechanism allows for a pivoting movement about an axis defined by an interface between adjacent components. These components may be (a) a seat member and a back member, (b) a seat member and a footrest, (c) a foot rest and a footplate support, (d) a baseplate and a footplate, or (e) a back member and a headrest.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Applicant: American Track Roadster, Inc.Inventor: Gregory Alan Peek
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Patent number: 9027948Abstract: Coupling links coupled at one end to terminal ends of the working belt and rotatably coupled at the other end to the conveyance body, the coupling links being configured to rotate when the seat cushion body rotates with a front end portion thereof acting as a pivot and both end portions of the working belt move in an up-and-down direction, and a working link mechanism provided in a manner to operate in interlock with the rotation the coupling link, the working link mechanism being configured to shift a brake member in accordance with a direction of rotation of the coupling link into a state that the brake member is separated from a rear wheel to release braking, or into such a state that the brake member is brought into contact with the rear wheel to apply braking.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2012Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Assignee: France Bed Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kei Ooyama
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Publication number: 20150115567Abstract: The present invention is directed to a tilt-in-space wheelchair that limits the shift of the center of a gravity of a wheelchair occupant during tilting. The wheelchair comprises a main frame adapted to be supported on a surface by wheels, a seat frame for supporting a occupant, and an arc plate for slidably or rollably supporting the seat frame with respect to the main frame. The arc plate defines a first track and a second track that guide the tilting of the seat frame relative to the frame. The first track and second track may have non-constant curvatures. Further, the first track and second track may be arranged non-concentrically on the arc plate and may have different lengths.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2014Publication date: April 30, 2015Inventors: Corey Blauch, James Patrick Mulhern
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Publication number: 20150115566Abstract: An all-terrain wheelchair includes a rigid and easy-to-assemble frame. The frame has a seating area with armrests toward the rear of the frame and an adjustable footrest area toward the front of the frame. Attached to the rear axle of the frame and outside the seating area are found two large rear wheels of a sufficient width to provide flotation over soft surfaces. Attached to the front axle of the frame in front of the footrest area is a single large wheel of a sufficient width to provide flotation over soft surfaces. An ergonomically designed push handle is found at the upper rear of the frame behind the seating area, which allows an assistant to propel the chair forward or pull it backward. The frame in front of the front wheel forms a pull handle, which allows an assistant to pull the chair forward or push it backward. A locking brake mechanism is attached to the rear axle to prevent a rear wheel from travel and render the wheelchair motionless when necessary.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2014Publication date: April 30, 2015Inventors: Christopher William Fertig, William Joseph Fertig, Noreen Fertig
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Patent number: 9016797Abstract: A seat device for use in a vehicle that can move through an opening of a vehicle between a loading and unloading position positioned outside the vehicle, where a passenger can load and unload as well as be seated, and a seating position positioned in the cabin of the vehicle, where the passenger can maintain a seated disposition. A securing member of the seat device can secure a wheelchair in a folded state to a side surface or a back surface of the seat. The wheelchair together with the seat can move from the loading and unloading position to inside the cabin of the vehicle, with the passenger in a seated position.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Fujio Iida, Masami Sasaki
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Publication number: 20150108735Abstract: A wheelchair suspension includes a frame, a pivoting assembly, at least one front caster, and at least one rear caster. The pivoting assembly has a first link pivotally coupled to the frame member, a second link pivotally coupled to the frame member, a drive assembly fixedly connected to a first end of the first link, and a third link pivotally connected to the first link and pivotally connected to the second link. The drive assembly causes downward pivotal movement of the first end of the first link and upward pivotal movement of a second end of the first link. The upward pivotal movement of the second end of the first link causes the second link and the caster assembly to undergo upward movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2014Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventor: James H. Molnar
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Patent number: 9010787Abstract: A wheelchair is disclosed herein. The wheelchair includes a base frame extending in a fore-aft direction and a lateral direction perpendicular to the fore-aft direction. The wheelchair also includes a plurality of wheels supporting the base frame for movement. The wheelchair also includes a seat frame operable to support a seat and a wheelchair occupant sitting in the seat. The wheelchair also includes a support assembly interconnecting the seat frame to the base frame for pivoting movement between an upright position, a fully-tilted position and an intermediate position between the upright position and the fully-tilted position. The support assembly utilizes a plurality of control paths to direct the seat frame in translating and rotating planar body motion that defines a fixed centrode. A center of gravity of the seat frame and the seat and the wheelchair occupant is definable in operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2014Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Assignee: KI MobilityInventors: Murray G. Slagerman, Thomas J. Whelan, Richard E. Schneider, Douglas H. Munsey
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Patent number: 9010786Abstract: A multi-directional lever drive system comprising a lever drive assembly comprising a lever for imparting actuation for driving a shaft through a roller mechanism, and engaging a switch assembly whereby the properties of the roller mechanism can be selected to drive the shaft forward, neutral, and reverse. The proposed switch assemblies enable convenient direction control from the same lever that inputs actuation to the drive assembly, making the lever drive assembly suitable for systems such as a lever propelled wheelchair, a winch, and hand tools.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2014Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventors: Andrew Ekelem, Michelle Sangalang
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Patent number: 8996432Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing personalized configuration of physical supports for the human body, comprising accepting input including an individual's demographic information, neurological attributes, physical history, operational environment, and outcome or use objectives, processing user input employing an artificial intelligence engine, and then returning guidance and/or control parameters directed to seating adjustment and positioning, including incline angles for wheelchair tilt and recline.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2014Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: University of Central OklahomaInventor: Jicheng Fu
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Patent number: 8990975Abstract: A user assistance apparatus and system is disclosed. The apparatus and system may include a base and a platform rotatably positionable about the base. A lift assist chair may be disposed upon the platform, and handrails may be attached to the platform such that the handrails rotate with the platform. The handrails extend from the platform to define an entry, and the handrails are configured to assist a user as the user passes between the entry and the lift assist chair. Fixtures may be disposed in a generally curved arrangement to cooperate with the entry as the platform is rotatably positioned about the base. Related methods of use are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventors: Jerrell W. Harden, Russell J. Harden
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Publication number: 20150084308Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are described for providing, among other things, a stand-up wheel chair having automatic stability control.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2013Publication date: March 26, 2015Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Stephen L. Malaska, Clarence T. Tegreene
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Patent number: 8985618Abstract: The invention relates to a wheelchair which comprises: a underframe (1) to which front steerable wheels (6) and rear drive wheels (7) are fixed at a distance from one another; a sealing frame (3) which is height-adjustably fixed to said underframe (1), mounted so as to be able to pivot about a rotational axis (D), and which can be incline-adjusted with regard to the horizontal line (H) as well as height-adjusted; and a backrest frame which is connected to the seating frame (3) consisting of two longitudinal tubes (9) lying opposite each other and at least one transverse tube (10) which interconnects these longitudinal tubes (9); a) said seating frame (3) being connected to the underframe (1) by means of at least two telescopic tubes (2) each formed from one lower (2b) and one upper (2a) tube; b) the lower ends of these lower tubes (2b) being rigidly fixed to said underframe (1), and the invention being characterised in that; c) the upper ends of the upper tubes (2a) are connected to the seating frame (3) in tType: GrantFiled: September 17, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Otto Bock Mobility Solutions GmbHInventor: Heinrich Perk
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Patent number: 8973925Abstract: A folding wheelchair is easily convertible between a folding wheelchair of a first type and a folding wheelchair of a second type through the use of conversion components, some of which are mounted permanently to the wheelchair and some of which are received by the mounted conversion components. In one form, the first type is a folding beach wheelchair while the second type is a folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair. Conversion is achieved through changeable front and back wheels. For instance, the folding beach wheelchair includes right and left rear wheels having oversized, low pressure tires. Right and left front brackets are mounted to the existing frame and are configured to receive right and left wheel assemblies, having smaller, low pressure tires mounted for pivoting movement. The folding all-terrain wheels have solid, high pressure or the like tires.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2014Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Inventor: Arlen Helterbrand
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Patent number: 8973935Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle (1) including a user seat comprising a backrest (3), a seat portion (4) and lateral edges (5) provided on both sides of the seat portion. The vehicle has a reduced production cost and a structure that facilitates the adaptation thereof to a plurality of activities, in particular owing to the fact that the seat, which is made from plastic, is produced in the form of a single piece, the lateral edges (5) being extended downwards such as to form two rear conduits intended to receive at least one rear movement member (26, 27, 28). The invention also relates to a vehicle production method in which rotational molding is used to form an ergonomic seat.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Assignee: Incubateur d'Entreprises d'AuvergneInventor: Wally Salvan
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Patent number: 8973938Abstract: A universal tray apparatus includes a tray and mounting components. The mounting components preferably include at least one arm that connects to the tray, as well as at least one mounting portion that can be reversibly fastened to an existing portion of a wheelchair. One or more of the arms between the tray and the mounting portion is preferably made such that it can retract and extend, depending upon where the person using the tray apparatus prefers the tray to be in relation to the wheelchair.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2013Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Inventor: Linda Beck
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Patent number: 8967652Abstract: A wheelchair includes a seat for supporting an occupant and a frame supporting the seat, where the frame further includes a first pair of wheels and a second pair of wheels connected by a differential for reversibly locking the second pair of wheels such that propulsion of only one of the wheels in the second pair of wheels results in both of wheels in the second pair of wheels moving in an identical direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2013Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Inventor: Joshua Carmine Penn
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Patent number: 8960699Abstract: A suspension seat comprises a structural layer and a stretchable top layer above the structural layer. The structural layer comprises a cut-out. The perimeter of the cut-out is defined by a plurality of discrete members. The discrete members allow the buttocks (i.e., the tissue surrounding the ischial sacrococcygeal aspects of the skeleton) of a wheelchair user to enter into the cut-out with gradual pressure minimizing high pressure concentrations at the edges of the cut-out. The stretchable top layer bears load via tension as the wheelchair user buttocks deflects into the cut-out.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2011Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Inventors: Stephen H. Sprigle, Randy Bernard
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Patent number: 8950768Abstract: An air cellular cushion according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a plurality of air cells; a sensor configured to detect an air cell collapsing to a bottom; a parameter measuring unit configured to measure a parameter indicating a collapse state of the air cell collapsing to the bottom; an indicator configured to output an indication; and a control unit configured to change the indication output from the indicator based on a parameter value measured by the parameter measuring unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2011Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: The Yokohama Rubber Company, LimitedInventor: Hideki Nihei
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Publication number: 20150028559Abstract: The present invention relates to wheelchair improvements and, in particular, to a wheelchair including a monocoque structural skin according to one aspect, and a suspension assembly according to another aspect.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Applicant: NEXT GENERATION MOBILITY PTY LTDInventor: SCOTT GORDON
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Patent number: 8942874Abstract: A self initiated prone progressive crawler facilitates crawling in infants by sensing the infant's intent and assisting movement. The device is designed as a mobility aid to assist an infant in prone locomotion. The infant can be placed in a prone position on a platform and secured with hook and loop straps. The arms and legs are unconstrained and are able to reach the floor comfortably. The self initiated prone progressive crawler is a motorized wheeled platform which has three points of contact with the ground. One point is an industrial trackball, mounted upside down to provide positional and positional derivative data to a controller. It is located roughly under the chest of the infant and is highly sensitive to movement. The other points of contact are two DC torque motors which are controlled by the controller.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2011Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignees: Virginia Commonwealth University, The Board of Regents of the University of OklahomaInventors: Peter E. Pidcoe, Hlapang A. Kolobe
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Publication number: 20150021875Abstract: A wheelchair includes a seat for supporting an occupant and a frame supporting the seat, where the frame further includes a first pair of wheels and a second pair of wheels connected by a differential for reversibly locking the second pair of wheels such that propulsion of only one of the wheels in the second pair of wheels results in both of wheels in the second pair of wheels moving in an identical direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2013Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventor: JOSHUA CARMINE PENN
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Patent number: 8931796Abstract: A propulsion system for a manually-operated mobility device includes a hand rim configured to receive a propulsion force from a user of the manually-operated mobility device, a wheel hub fixedly attached to a wheel for the manually-operated mobility device, and a planetary gear system including a sun gear, a ring gear, and one or more planetary gears disposed between the sun gear and the ring gear. The one or more planetary gears are supported by a planet carrier. One of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the hand rim and the other of the sun gear and the ring gear is fixedly coupled to the wheel hub.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: January 13, 2015Assignee: Rowheels, Inc.Inventor: Salim Nasser
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Patent number: 8919797Abstract: A seat assembly for a conveyance, such as a wheelchair, that allows the user to set the recline angle of the seat back at a seating position, fold the seat back down to a folded position and back up to the seating position, such that the seat back is returned to the seating position at the user selected recline angle R unless the recline angle is adjusted by the user. The user selected recline angle R is not disturbed by folding the seat back from the seating position, to the folded position 106, and back to the seating position.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Invacare Corp.Inventors: Howard Lowenthal, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Daniel James Yee
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Patent number: 8915513Abstract: A reverser mechanism particularly developed to provide better posture to the wheelchair user and a more efficient propulsion during a forward movement (wheelchair touch) by means of the application of a traction force to the handrims, which is contrary to the rotating movement of the rear wheels (movement contrary to the propulsion), allowing the wheelchair user to adopt a more comfortable and straight position during the effort made to move the wheelchair forward.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2011Date of Patent: December 23, 2014Inventor: Jefferson Garcia França
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Patent number: 8910975Abstract: Embodiments of a suspension for a vehicle is provided. The suspension includes, for example, a frame and a locking assembly. The locking assembly inhibits tipping of a frame of the vehicle when tipping of the frame is detected.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2008Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventors: Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Gerald Fought
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Patent number: 8905421Abstract: A manual wheelchair including a frame, a drive wheel connected to the frame, having a first axis of rotation and configured to rotate relative to the frame, a push rim connected to the frame, having a second axis of rotation extending substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel and configured to rotate relative to the frame, wherein the second axis of rotation of the push rim is offset from the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel in a direction orthogonal to the first axis of rotation of the drive wheel, and a transmission configured to transmit rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel. Additionally, the wheelchair may also include multispeed fixed-gear hubs for propulsion on different terrain and removable or rotatable push rims for easier transfers.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Department of Veterans Affairs, Technology Transfer ProgramInventors: Andrew H. Hansen, Gary D. Goldish
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Patent number: 8905420Abstract: A wheelchair comprising: three or more ground-engaging wheels; and a user seat, the user seat forming a structural member or monocoque on which the ground-engaging wheels are supported; wherein at least one of the wheels is connected to the seat by a support member, the length of the support member being adjustable during use. Also provided is a wheelchair or other wheeled vehicle, wherein at least one ground-engaging wheel is connected to a pivotable hub, and the said wheel is adjustable. Also provided is a wheelchair, wherein a ground-engaging wheel on each side of the wheelchair is provided with a brake. Also provided is a wheelchair or other wheeled vehicle in which one or more ground-engaging wheels are provided with ratchet means. A coupling arrangement for releasably joining two structural members is also provided. Also provided is a wheelchair including a rear castor with a detent mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2007Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Inventor: Michael J. Spindle
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Patent number: 8876138Abstract: The present invention provides a wheelchair device configured to reduce the likelihood that a user might fall out of a wheelchair. The device includes a wheelchair frame, a lever, and a seat cushion, whereby the seat cushion is flexible and configured to sink into a recessed and angled orientation when occupied by a user. The sunken seat cushion serves to encourage a user to attain proper posture and further serves to reduce the chances that a user might fall forward out of the seat. The lever of the present invention is attached to the underside of the wheelchair device and comprises a handle portion and a flat base portion with a curved upper surface. A forward actuation of the handle results in the lever rotating about the wheelchair, causing the base to contact and lift the seat cushion to a level that facilitates the exiting of the wheelchair device.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2013Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventor: Francis Wilde
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Patent number: 8870216Abstract: A raising wheelchair comprises a wheeled frame and a raising system mounted to the frame and supporting a seat and a backrest. The raising system is configured to be movable between a lowered position and a raised position. The raising system includes at least one double-armed lever including a first lever member and a second lever member, a coupling member fixedly mounted to the frame, wherein the first lever member and the second lever member are pivotally coupled to the coupling member, and a coupling mechanism translationally coupled or pivotally coupled to a second end of the first lever member, pivotally coupled to a second end of the second lever member, and coupled to the backrest. The raising system maintains an orientation of the backrest relative to the ground that is substantially constant throughout substantially an entire range of movement between the lowered position and the raised position.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Dane Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Balz Maurer, Fabian Wolter
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Patent number: 8870209Abstract: A connector for releasably attaching a vehicle such as a shopping cart to a wheelchair includes a pivoting frame that is mounted for use on the cart by a front attachment device and that can be releasably attached to the wheelchair by the chair's occupant. The frame is pivoted to an in-use position and aligned with the wheelchair for attachment. The frame can also be readily released from attachment to the wheelchair by the chair's occupant.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Assembled Products CorporationInventor: Steven S. Conrad
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Patent number: 8857844Abstract: A transport device for a user of a wheel chair to access a pool or a lower surface that the wheel chair rests upon, the device employing a frame, a lift mechanism, gearing to operate the lift mechanism, drive wheels, stabilizing wheels, locking devices, clamping device, handle grips and holding pads. The transport device is entered by a wheel chair user from a site away from a pool. The user moves the transport device near to an edge of a pool. The lock device is deployed and the lift mechanism is operable by the user of the transport device. The lift mechanism raises and lowers the user to the surface of the pool edge. A rest pad can be deployed under the seat portion. The device to hold the transport device at or near the edge of the pool or at a surface that the wheel chair rests upon has a pivotable clamp and/or stop/hold pads under the handle grips.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2012Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Inventors: Kenneth Carl Weber, James A. Fox, Michael Shinkevich
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Patent number: 8814196Abstract: A shower assistance scooter device supports a person in a bathing facility. The device includes a base and a seat coupled to and extending upwardly from the base. The seat is rotationally coupled to the base. A handle assembly is coupled to the base and positioned adjacent to a front side of the base. The handle assembly is rotatable relative to the base. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the base including at least one drive wheel and a directional wheel coupled to the handle assembly for steering the device. A first front foot rest is coupled to the base adjacent to a front side of the base. The base, seat, handle assembly, wheels, and first front foot rest are each water resistant to support a person in a bathing facility while the person bathes.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2013Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Inventor: Steven K. Poggenpohl
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Publication number: 20140232085Abstract: Apparatus for a manually-powered wheelchair comprising a frame and first and second wheel rotatably coupled to the frame. Each wheel includes a hand rim and a drive wheel. For each of the first and second wheels, a multiple speed transmission coupled to the wheel comprises a transmission output coupled to the drive wheel, a transmission input coupled to the hand rim, and at least two gears selectively coupling the transmission output to the transmission input. The transmission allows the drive wheel and the hand rim to rotate concentrically with one another but at different speeds. A selector is provided for selecting one of the at least two gears. A controller controls the selector to operate the transmission for the first and/or second wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2012Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Elizabeth T. Hsiao-Wecksler, Scott C. Daigle
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Patent number: 8801020Abstract: A wheelchair comprising a frame, a seat assembly attached to the frame, two rear wheels attached to the frame, and at least one front wheel assembly attached to the frame. The frame defines a front face and two side faces. The front face is defined by one or more structural elements situated along a front of the frame, while the side faces are defined by two top side members and two corresponding bottom side members. The front face and the two side faces result in three non-orthogonal planes, which contribute to the strength and stiffness of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2013Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Inventor: Jaimie Borisoff
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Patent number: 8781677Abstract: High centering bases for hospital gurneys are disclosed. An example hospital gurney includes a sensor to detect a position of a foot pedal of the hospital gurney. The example high centering base includes a processor responsive to the sensor to create a movement instruction based on the position of the foot pedal. The example high centering base includes an actuator to move a first wheel based on the movement instruction, the first wheel located between a first end of the hospital gurney and a second end of the hospital gurney.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Hospital Therapy ProductsInventors: Timothy Roberts, Daniel Stout
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Patent number: 8777249Abstract: A wheelchair assembly for propelling a wheelchair is provided. The wheelchair has front wheels and rear wheels and a pair of armrests. The wheelchair assembly comprises a first gear wheel secured to each rear wheel and a second gear wheel secured to each armrest. The second gear wheel is positioned directly over the first gear wheel with the second gear wheel being completely encased by a cover. A chain is secured over and between the first and second gear wheels and extends from an opening in the cover. Rotatable handles are attached to each armrest with each having a grasping portion extending Upward. A control linkage extends between the handles and the second gear wheels and mounted to and under the armrest such that rotation of the handles also rotates the second gear wheels with the control linkage being perpendicular to the line formed between the first and second gear wheels.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2012Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Inventors: David Roman, Eric James
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Publication number: 20140191489Abstract: An early warning method and a device for preventing a wheelchair from tipping over are described. The early warning method includes projecting a laser light pattern, scanning the laser light pattern, making a comparison to determine whether the ground is a barrier terrain, and issuing an early warning to the user in situations of risk. The laser light pattern is projected onto the ground and compared with a standard pattern. The early warning is generated and is one selected from a group consisting of a beep, a warning message and a vibration to alert the wheelchair user to the danger of the barrier terrain.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2013Publication date: July 10, 2014Inventors: Shih-Chung Kang, Pei-Chun Lin, Yung-Shun Su, Ci-Jyun Liang, Pei-Yi Lee, Yao-Yu Yang, Kevin Lin, Chuan-En Lee
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Patent number: 8740242Abstract: A posterior walker has an anteriorly open, wheeled frame having a transverse posterior structural member, a left and right forearm support member attached to the frame, and adapted to be aligned with the forearms of a user at an angle wherein the user's wrist is lower than the elbow, and left and right hand grips associated with the left and right forearm support member.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Biovar CorporationInventor: Flo Slomp
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Patent number: 8733775Abstract: A Physical therapy assembly includes a wheelchair that may transport a user. A pad is movably coupled to the wheelchair so the pad may support the user's leg.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2012Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: Nicholas J. Brand
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Patent number: 8727048Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2010Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Invacare Corp.Inventors: Damon Jurkiewicz, Joshua Greiner, Daniel James Yee, Daniel Watson, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke
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Patent number: 8720926Abstract: A mobility chair is arranged for a high degree of maneuverability, and is particularly useful for handicapped individuals in need of a highly stable and maneuverable carriage. The mobility chair may be particularly useful for children, and includes a seat positioned between first and second wheels of a first wheel set, wherein the axial spacing dimension of the first and second wheels is greater than the axle height. The mobility chair is arranged for pivotability about the first wheel set axle to permit the user to freely pivot forward while in the seat of the chair, with the pivoting being limited in both circumaxial directions about the axle axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2013Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: ZChair, LLCInventors: Zachary Adams, Kent Nienaber
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Patent number: 8702115Abstract: A drive mechanism effects a rotary power output in response to a reciprocating power input resulting from substantially linear forces applied to the drive mechanism, such as those forces applied by a rider on a bicycle. The drive mechanism includes input bevel gears meshed with corresponding output bevel gears coupled to a common power output shaft through clutches that effect a rotary power output at the power output shaft in response to the reciprocating power input from the substantially linear forces. Opposite crank arms are coupled with the input bevel gears such that each crank arm is advanced by an applied substantially linear force, and is retracted upon advancement of the opposite crank arm. In a bicycle, opposite pedals are coupled to corresponding crank arms and are moved through predetermined power strokes in response to substantially linear forces applied by a rider to effect corresponding rotational movements of the input bevel gears and concomitant rotary power output at the power output shaft.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventors: Radu Kramer, William X. Desmond
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Patent number: 8690178Abstract: A system and method for patient transfer, including patient transfer from a bed to a rollable chair and patient transfer from a wheelchair to a bed. A docking assembly can connect a rollable chair to a bed for transfer. The systems and methods can provide a safe, dignified, and comfortable transfer for patients. A transfer bed, a docking assembly, and a wheelchair can be used together as a system and can reduce the physical and psychological burden of bedridden patients and their caregivers. The transfer bed, docking assembly, and wheelchair can be appropriate for use within a patient's home, nursing home, hospital or any location where a patient is transferred between a bed and a wheelchair. The transfer bed, docking assembly, and wheelchair can be controlled such that a patient is transferred from a bed to a wheelchair or from a wheelchair to a bed.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Next Health, LLCInventors: Lee F Griswold, Edward A Gilchrest, Bruce Eidinger, David Beckstrom
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Patent number: 8684398Abstract: A motorized vehicle assembly having a frame, a seat supported by the frame, and one or more wheels in communication with the frame, where the frame may have a plane extending therethrough and the seat may have a plane extending therethrough. The seat may be adjustable with respect to frame. The seat may be adjusted laterally in a first direction and/or a second direction, where the seat faces a third direction that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The seat may be rotated or tilted toward the first direction, the second direction, the third direction, or a fourth direction, where the fourth direction may be substantially opposite the third direction. In some cases, the seat may be tilted in the same direction in which the seat has been laterally adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2013Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Inventor: Michael Nyitray
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Patent number: 8684113Abstract: A device for adapting a manual wheelchair to drive with a powered wheel is disclosed. The device attached to the wheelchair provides means for raising the wheelchair front caster wheels and simultaneously having the powered wheel contact the driving surface. The disclosed device may be rotated so that the powered wheel lifts from the surface as the front caster wheels are lowered to contact the driving surface enabling manual operation of the wheelchair. The disclosed device includes a mechanism for steering the powered wheel, controls for varying the forward or backward speeds and braking. The device may be detached from the chair and is adaptable to fit a large variety of wheelchairs with capability for ergonomically adjusting the steering column for the comfort of the user. Optional human interface devices may be incorporated so the chair occupant may control speed and steering by operating a joystick, head array or other such devices.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Inventor: Gregory Edward Laconis
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Publication number: 20140084562Abstract: A wheelchair transit bracket assembly is provided and includes a clamp configured for attachment to a portion of a wheelchair frame. A pivot is attached to the clamp and is configured for rotation relative to the clamp. The pivot is configured for attachment to a tie-down assembly. The tie-down assembly is configured to secure the wheelchair to a vehicle during transit. A belt bracket is attached to the pivot and is configured for rotation relative to the pivot. The belt bracket is configured for attachment to a lap belt thereby forming a lap belt assembly. The lap belt assembly is configured to secure an occupant to the wheelchair during transit. In an installed position, the wheelchair transit bracket assembly is configured to transfer forces generated by the wheelchair and wheelchair occupant from the lap belt assembly to the tie-down assembly without introducing the forces to the wheelchair frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2013Publication date: March 27, 2014Applicant: SUNRISE MEDICAL (US), LLCInventors: Benjamin A. Anooshian, Samuel D. Traxinger, Jason Shelton, Thomas Lockton
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Patent number: 8678402Abstract: A portable wheelchair is easily convertible between a conventional or street wheelchair and a specialty wheelchair through the use of conversion components, some of which are mounted permanently to the wheelchair and some of which are received by the mounted conversion components. In one form, the portable specialty wheelchair is a portable beach wheelchair while in another form the portable specialty wheelchair is an all-terrain wheelchair or trail chair. Preferably, but not necessarily, the portable convertible wheelchair is foldable in order to provide added versatility.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2012Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventor: Arlen Helterbrand
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Patent number: 8672356Abstract: An engagement fixture of a shoulder belt is connected to and supported by an engagement buckle disposed in a vehicle interior. When a platform is positioned in a getting in/out position in a vehicle exterior, the engagement fixture of the shoulder belt can be temporarily connected to a temporary fastening fixture provided to the platform. To the contrary, when the platform is positioned in a loading position in a vehicle interior, a connection condition of the engagement fixture of the shoulder belt can be changed from a temporary connection of the fastening fixture to a securely supportable connection of an engagement buckle in the vehicle interior. Thus, it is possible to simplify a belt attaching operation after a wheelchair is loaded in a vehicle while a columnar support member used in the conventional platform is abolished.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2010Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Toyota Shatai Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yukio Inaguma, Kenji Horiguchi, Akira Ishii, Fumiaki Katou, Masaaki Yamane
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Patent number: 8668220Abstract: A wheelchair system and an accessory system for a wheelchair are disclosed. According to one embodiment, the accessory system may include an accessory frame having one or more interface elements to mount to a wheelchair frame. The accessory system may include a wheel assembly rotatably coupled to the accessory frame by a first fastener. The accessory system may include an engagement system further coupling the accessory frame to the wheel assembly. The engagement system may include a channel guide member defining a channel having a notched region. The channel guide member may be rotatably coupled to one of the accessory frame or wheel assembly by a second fastener. The engagement system may further include a translating member retained within the channel of the channel guide member. The translating member may be fixed to another one of the accessory frame or wheel assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2013Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Inventor: Carl M. Hay