Wheelchair Patents (Class 280/304.1)
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Publication number: 20110316253Abstract: The present application relates generally to conveyances and, more particularly, to wheelchairs. In one embodiment, a wheelchair includes a seat assembly coupled to a chassis. The chassis includes a frame having a rear wheel support member, one or more front wheel support members extending in a forward direction from the rear wheel support member, and a seat support member. The rear wheel support member comprises a central portion and left and right portions extending downward from the central portion. The wheelchair also includes one or more drive wheels for propulsion of the wheelchair, a set of front wheels for supporting the wheelchair, and a shrouding system for at least partially covering the frame and other components of the wheelchair.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: Invacare CorporationInventors: Thomas Tuckowski, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Daniel James Yee, Joseph Spalding, Howard Loewenthal
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Publication number: 20110304121Abstract: The present invention provides a quick-release mechanism of assembly structure, of which said quick-release mechanism includes an exterior sleeve, expansion link sections, a threading portion of driving section, elastic part and a brake. The expansion link sections are arranged at interval into the holding space of the exterior sleeve. At least one elastic part is arranged into the holding space of the exterior sleeve, enabling retraction or protruding of the expansion link sections. The present invention is characterized in that the driving section of the brake is mated with the threading portion of driving section, so that the brake can drive the expansion link section to control the actuating state of the positioning end in either positioning or release mode. With this configuration, the users can dismantle or operate the device easily in either positioning or release mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2010Publication date: December 15, 2011Applicant: WU'S TECH CO., LTD.Inventor: Chien-Liang CHIU
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Patent number: 8070232Abstract: The present invention provides a scooter with two chair backs. The scooter includes a main body containing a wheel seat, a pedal and front/rear wheel set; two chair back supports, assembled separately onto both sides on the back of wheel seat of the main body; and two chair backs, incorporated onto at least one chair back support via the connecting frame and transversely arranged at interval. The scooter of the present invention substantially improves the structural functionality and comfort of the chair back of the scooter, and also meets the diversified customer requirements with improved applicability.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignees: Moventon CorporationInventor: Cheng-Hung Hung
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Patent number: 8066301Abstract: The apparatus of the present disclosure is an improvement on known wheelchairs and other known devices for transporting elderly, infirm, injured, handicapped, disabled, or otherwise mobility-impaired individuals. The present disclosure provides a seat that is adjustable in both height and tilt angle for easy loading and unloading. In some embodiments, the height adjustment is provided via a hydraulic lift cart. Further provided are adjustable horizontal leg supports. A non-confining cage of substantially vertical support bars surrounds the occupant, and straps may be attached around the support bars. This provides support without causing the occupant to feel strapped down and confined to the device. Removing the straps allows easy loading and unloading from whichever side of the apparatus is most convenient.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2010Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Inventor: Karl Westermann
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Publication number: 20110272914Abstract: A wheelchair attachment device comprising an elongated body with a plurality of holes, a base bar attached at a lower portion of the elongated body, a mounting bracket to attach the base bar to the plurality of holes along the elongated body, an attachment screw to affix the base bar to a wheelchair, a top bar at an upper portion of the elongated body, a set of butterfly nuts to attach the elongated body to the top bar, a strap wherein the strap secures a bow to the top bar to allow a user to shoot the bow while seated in the wheelchair. The wheelchair attachment device may be raised or lowered depending on the user and the direction of their shot. Various recreational apparatus may be secured on the wheelchair attachment device, including a hand gun, rifle or even a video camera.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Inventor: MIKE GORMLEY
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Publication number: 20110266771Abstract: A device that detachably mounts to the front side of a wheelchair frame, or similar vehicle, to manually lift or otherwise manipulate an occupied wheelchair p and/or down stairs. The manual wheelchair lift attachment comprises a wheelchair attachment portion and a handhold member for lifting that is connected by connecting arms. The wheelchair lift attachment apparatus may be adjustable to be configured with different sized wheelchairs. The invention also relates to a wheelchair having a permanent wheelchair frame that operably accepts a lifting mechanism apparatus. The invention also relates to a method of using the foregoing attachment and permanent configuration to transport an occupied wheelchair up and/or down stairs or otherwise maneuver the occupied wheelchair about other similar obstacles.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2011Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventor: Bradley J. Rousseau
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Patent number: 8042824Abstract: A wheel mount assembly for mounting a drive wheel to a frame of a wheelchair is provided. The assembly includes a camber body attachable to an axle of one of the drive wheels and operable to pivotably couple about the frame through a range of camber angles; a spacer operable to set a desired camber angle, the spacer contacting the camber body at the desired camber angle; and a clamp operable to secure the camber body and the spacer to the frame at the camber angle. Optionally, a transverse member, extending between the drive wheels, may engage a portion of the frame such that the clamp is prevented from pivoting through the camber angles of each respective camber body. Again, optionally, the wheel mount assembly may be clamped to the frame at a multitude of positions, thus facilitating adjustment of the center of gravity of the wheelchair.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Inventor: Jaimie Borisoff
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Publication number: 20110257786Abstract: A portable robotic arm comprises a base, a plurality of motorized joints, a plurality of body members and a manipulator. Each motorized joint is operative to rotate in its respective rotation plane and on its respective joint axis, which is normal to the respective rotating plane. Each body member is sequentially connected to one other body member through one of the motorized joints. A last body member is connected to the base through a last motorized joint. A manipulator is connected to a first body member through a first motorized joint. At least two consecutive rotation planes are placed at an angle from each other that is greater than 0 degrees and smaller than 90 degrees. Optionally, the manipulator comprises three fingers and a tool port centered between the three fingers. A tool connected in the manipulator's tool port may be gripped with the three fingers. The robotic arm and a wheelchair support for the robotic arm may also be provided as a kit.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: Louis Joseph Caron L'Ecuyer, Charles Deguire
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Patent number: 8038165Abstract: A foldable wheeled vehicle for individuals includes a main body, front and rear wheels joined on the body, and an anti-tip wheel joined on a rear end of the main vehicle body; the rear wheels will be in an immobilized state when the vehicle isn't in-use; the anti-tilting wheel will move to be below the rear wheels automatically when the vehicle is folded; thus, the vehicle in the folded position can be dragged with the front wheels and the anti-tip wheel contacting the ground; secondly, the anti-tip wheel will be in a higher position than the rear wheels when the vehicle is in an expanded in-use position; thus, when the vehicle is moving along a slope and tilting rearwards, the anti-tip wheel will contact the ground to prevent the vehicle from tilting rearwards excessively to overturn.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2008Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Inventor: Arthur Wang
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Publication number: 20110248471Abstract: To assist disabled persons that cannot get from the floor into a wheelchair without assistance or other lift devices, the wheelchair is provided with a translatable carriage on which the wheelchair seat is mounted. A DC motor is arranged to drive a lead screw that engages a travelling nut secured to the carriage to lower the seat to floor level where a paraplegic can leave and re-enter upon the wheelchair seat. Accessible controls allow the occupant to be able to operate the motor from the seat when at floor level so as to be raised to a normal chair seating height.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 13, 2010Publication date: October 13, 2011Inventor: Gary C. Springer
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Publication number: 20110233890Abstract: A storage apparatus (10) attachable to a wheelchair (44) is pivotable and slidable from a storage position against the back of a wheelchair backrest to an access position adjacent to a wheelchair armrest. Pivoting and sliding is accomplished under power of an operator with the storage apparatus and slide mechanism (11) rotating substantially 90 degrees around vertical pivot member (30) and then sliding on a block member (18). A handle (24) is used to aide with the movement of the storage apparatus and to operate a locking mechanism (28), which secures the storage apparatus in access and storage positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2009Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventors: Leonard Jutkiewicz, Krzysztof Kotapka
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Publication number: 20110227314Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2011Publication date: September 22, 2011Applicant: Invacare CorporationInventors: Howard Lowenthal, Traian Mohan, Robert Bekoscke, Damon Jurkiewicz, Daniel James Yee
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Patent number: 8016310Abstract: An assembly for attachment of a propulsion system to a wheelchair frame includes a clamp which remains fixed to the frame, while an attachment device that enables three dimensions of adjustability permits quick release of a main wheel and the propulsion system (e.g., lever drive, pushrim and motor drive) that propels the main wheel. The clamp includes a first alignment feature, such as a pin. A spring-loaded latch may also be included. The attachment device includes a second alignment feature, such as a hole or slot, configured to mate with the first. To permit alignment for a number of different wheelchair frame geometries, the attachment device is rotatable to provide angular adjustability, structured to permit lengthwise adjustability, and coupled using hardware which provides offset adjustability in a direction generally parallel to the axis of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Daedalus Wings, Inc.Inventors: Bart Kylstra, Nathan Jauvtis
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Patent number: 8011693Abstract: The designed invention relates to a temperature regulation device for both hot and cold climates primarily for occupants of human transport mediums such as strollers, wheelchairs, and scooters and secondarily for the caregivers who use these mobile mediums. The invention comprises of an enclosed compartment to hold the occupant, and at least one thermoregulatory unit, comprising at least one thermoelectric element, connected to the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventor: Seyed Ali Reza Nooshin
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Patent number: 8006786Abstract: A passenger standing platform for attachment to a mobility vehicle that provides improved support for the rider, increased weightload, and easy mountability and storage capability, The unit has a paddle shape platform base with 3 fully rotating caster assemblies attached to its underside in a triangular configuration and a non-skid mat attached to its obverse side. The platform base is hingedly attached to a mount plate that connects to the mobility vehicle, and is retained in a non-use generally vertical position off the ground by a pair of spaced coil springs attached at opposite ends to the mount plate and to the platform base.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Inventor: Judi Chapman
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Publication number: 20110204591Abstract: A wheelchair includes a frame, a seat supported by the frame and a plurality of wheels. The wheelchair further includes at least one load cell disposed between at least one of the frame and the seat and at least one of the wheels and configured to provide at least one measured signal and a measuring device having at least one electrode disposed in at least one of the frame, a handle associated with the frame and an armrest associated with the frame, and configured to provide measured body-specific information. An evaluation unit is included in the wheelchair that has a power source, a processor, and a display, and configured to evaluate the at least one measured signal and the measured body-specific information and show processed data on the display.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: SOEHNLE PROFESSINAL GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Stephan Gerster
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Publication number: 20110204592Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a mobility device comprising a self-balancing mechanism and at least one wheel operatively coupled to the self-balancing mechanism. A mounting frame can be coupled to the self-balancing mechanism and an outrigger system can be at least partially supported by the mounting frame. In some embodiments, the outrigger system can include a stabilizer handle at least partially supported by the mounting frame, at least one stabilizer link operatively coupled to the stabilizer handle, and at least one stabilizer bracket operatively coupled to the at least one stabilizer link.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Inventors: N. Layne Johansen, Casey L. Johansen
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Patent number: 8002300Abstract: A rear wheel mounting assembly for a wheelchair having a frame with upper and lower longitudinal members vertically spaced from one another and disposed along the same side of the frame. The rear wheel mounting assembly includes an elongated upright member with a plurality of spaced apart recesses arranged longitudinally along an inward face. The elongated upright member includes a clamp disposed at each of its ends. One of the clamps is clamped to the upper longitudinal frame member and the other to the lower longitudinal frame member. The rear wheel mounting assembly includes a camber clamping assembly having an aperture for receiving and retaining an axle of a rear wheel and a removable clamp having a clamping surface engaged with a portion of the elongated upright member. The clamping surface comprises a projection received within one of the recesses of the elongated upright member.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: TiSport, LLCInventors: Alan N. Ludovici, David V. Berriochoa
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Patent number: 7988172Abstract: A wheelchair having a lower frame with drive wheels and forwardly extending arms with casters and an upper frame with a seat and backrest. Linkage assemblies on opposing sides pivotably attach at a first end to the lower frame and at a second end to the upper frame. Power cylinders attached on opposing sides are extendable between the upper frame and the lower frame and are lockable from moving from a selected position. When unlocked, the power cylinders apply a supplemental force in association with a force applied by a user on the drive wheels for moving the upper frame relative to the lower frame guided by the linkage assembly. A method of adjusting the seat height of a wheelchair is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Max Mobility, LLCInventors: William Mark Richter, Russell Rodriguez, Adam Paul Karpinski
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Patent number: 7988171Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bi-folding wheelchair (10) with side frames (12) and (14) that fold together with a compound scissor action moving the large rear wheels (96) to a central location while the backrest (50) is folding downwardly. Two separate locking mechanisms (28) and (40) hold the frame apart in the upright position while two additional locking mechanisms (77) hold the backrest (50) upright or down in the collapsed position. All the major components of the conventional wheelchairs like the foot rests, the arm rests, large wheels, caster wheels and the backrest fit into a compact package narrower than the unfolded wheelchair and slightly larger than the diameter of the back wheels with all parts folding in and out simultaneously. The large rear wheel assemblies can be quickly removed further reducing the size and weight of the device for shipping or storage.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Carlsbad International Export Co., Inc.Inventor: Edward Y. Chong
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Patent number: 7980584Abstract: A portable commode, shower, and bath wheelchair apparatus comprising a first support frame, a second support frame, a mechanical interface interconnecting the first support frame to the second support frame thereby forming a first contiguous support rail and a second contiguous support rail. A seat assembly is slidingly attached to both the first contiguous support rail and to the second contiguous support rail.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2007Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Eric J. Goldstein
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Patent number: 7980580Abstract: The present application discloses several embodiments of clamping devices and quick connect attachment devices. In one embodiment, a clamping device includes two wedge members that are forced together to engage a frame component. In another embodiment, a quick connect attachment or latching assembly includes components that slide together and are then fixed, by moving a protrusion into a recess.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventors: Howard L. Loewenthal, Daniel M. Hulse
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Patent number: 7976049Abstract: An assembly and positioning mechanism for wheelchair and auxiliary operating lever. The assembly and positioning mechanism has a swinging angular adjustment seat and a liftable pivoting seat of operating lever. The angular adjustment seat has an assembly side of locating rack and an assembly side of pivoting seat. The assembly side of locating rack is pivoted onto the locating rack via an adjuster, and the angular adjustment seat can swing rotarily. The pivoting seat of operating lever consists of a connecting side and a mating side of operating lever. The pivoting seat of operating lever can move vertically via a limiting portion. The mating side of operating lever is fitted with a limiting rabbet and a guide opening extended in an outward-dipping state. The mechanism can swing and also shift vertically, making it possible to control the guide opening of the mating side of operating lever for outward-dipping extension.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Wu's Tech Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chien-Liang Chiu
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Patent number: 7971893Abstract: A wheelchair includes a chair member formed of a seat portion with a backrest portion vertically extending therefrom. On each of two opposing sides of the backrest is an armrest that pivots between a horizontal, deployed position when in use, and a stowed, vertical position when a patient is entering or exiting the seat. The chair is mounted on an electronics housing that includes a pair of reversible DC motors and associated gear boxes that rotate a pair of pneumatic tires. A caregiver can stand on a platform behind the chair member when operating the wheelchair. The chair's speed and direction are controlled with either of a pair of control panels. A caregiver's control panel is mounted on a steering bar attached to the rear surface of the backrest while a patient control panel is mounted on one of the armrests.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2009Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Inventor: Bobbie Dunn
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Patent number: 7967174Abstract: A carrier for carrying goods for an invalid vehicle, such as a wheelchair, having a seat. The carrier has a basket support and a foldable basket with a back wall. The basket support has vehicle connectors for detachably connecting the basket support to the vehicle with the support behind the seat. The basket support also has basket connectors for detachably connecting the basket to the support with its back wall against the support. The basket can be detached from the basket support and used alone. The support, with or without the basket attached to it, can be detached from the wheelchair when the wheelchair is to be folded.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2009Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Inventor: Rene Lauber
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Patent number: 7959176Abstract: A conveyance has a plurality of wheels and, at least, first and second drive axles, which are mounted, or disposed, between the wheels. One of the wheels defines a first wheel that is rotatably mounted to one end of the first drive axle. A second of the wheels is rotatably mounted to one end of the second drive axle. The conveyance further includes a first actuation device for the first drive axle, on the opposite end of the first drive axle from the first wheel and proximate to the second wheel, and a second actuation device for the second drive axle on the opposite end of the second drive axle from the second wheel and proximate the first wheel. The first actuation device is selectively operated to apply a selective relative rotation to the first wheel and the second actuation device is selectively operated to apply a selective relative rotation to the second wheel.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Inventors: Alan Bidwell, Adrian Bidwell
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Patent number: 7954577Abstract: An electric wheelchair is disclosed. The electric wheelchair includes a main frame correspondingly pivoted with a foldable chair while the folding of the chair connects with an accessory tip wheel. Moreover, the main frame is disposed with main wheels and a front wheel set arranged on front of the main wheel correspondingly on each of two sides thereof. A footrest that is pulled out or stored in the main frame is arranged between the two front wheel sets. In use, the footrest is pulled out of the main frame and the chair is moved and unfolded. At the same time, the accessory tip wheel tilted a little angle is extended out of the main frame by a connecting member. Thereby the problem caused by movement of the center of gravity of the wheelchair while moving can be solved and the safety of users is ensured.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Freerider Corp.Inventor: Arthur Wang
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Publication number: 20110127748Abstract: A device that detachably mounts to the front side of a wheelchair frame, or similar vehicle, to manually lift or otherwise manipulate an occupied wheelchair up and/or down stairs. The manual wheelchair lift attachment comprises a wheelchair attachment portion and a handhold member for lifting that is connected by connecting arms. The wheelchair lift attachment apparatus may be adjustable to be configured with different sized wheelchairs. The invention also relates to a wheelchair having a permanent wheelchair frame that operably accepts a lifting mechanism apparatus. The invention also relates to a method of using the foregoing attachment and permanent configuration to transport an occupied wheelchair up and/or down stairs or otherwise maneuver the occupied wheelchair about other similar obstacles.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2009Publication date: June 2, 2011Inventor: Bradley J. Rousseau
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Patent number: 7950684Abstract: Wheelchair side guards are provided with a strip and covering materials. The strip is sufficiently rigid to keep the shape and position of the side guards such that a user and their clothes are kept away from the wheelchair wheels. The side guards may also comprise a hinge near the middle that permit the wheelchair backrest to fold.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Inventor: Jaimie Borisoff
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Publication number: 20110121535Abstract: Gentle and substantially linear vertical motion of a wheelchair foot support is expected to assist lower limb circulation for a user with limited leg mobility, reducing risks of clotting or blockage within peripheral blood vessels. Additionally, to whatever extent limb atrophy may be reduced by imposed motion, motion of the foot support may help in maintaining muscle mass and flexibility of ligaments. Accordingly, a circulation assisting wheelchair includes a foot support movably connected to the wheelchair frame by a movable foot support assembly. The movable foot support assembly is connected to a rear wheel of the wheelchair via a drive train, so that normal operation of the wheelchair drives substantially linear vertical oscillating motion of the foot support.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 4, 2011Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventors: Bonnie Fremgen, Troy E. Atkinson, John P. Sochocky, JR.
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Patent number: 7938434Abstract: A wheelchair that upon folding can become more compact for transporting and storage by enabling the vertical side frames of the wheelchair to move towards each other through the use of a sliding mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Joel N. Smith
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Publication number: 20110101642Abstract: An assembly and positioning mechanism for wheelchair and auxiliary operating lever. The assembly and positioning mechanism has a swinging angular adjustment seat and a liftable pivoting seat of operating lever. The angular adjustment seat has an assembly side of locating rack and an assembly side of pivoting seat. The assembly side of locating rack is pivoted onto the locating rack via an adjuster, and the angular adjustment seat can swing rotarily. The pivoting seat of operating lever consists of a connecting side and a mating side of operating lever. The pivoting seat of operating lever can move vertically via a limiting portion. The mating side of operating lever is fitted with a limiting rabbet and a guide opening extended in an outward-dipping state. The mechanism can swing and also shift vertically, making it possible to control the guide opening of the mating side of operating lever for outward-dipping extension.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2009Publication date: May 5, 2011Applicant: WU'S TECH Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chien-Liang CHIU
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Patent number: 7934740Abstract: An improved off-road wheelchair having detachable wheelchair wheels having disc brakes, an anti-wheelie wheel and at least one detachable stability wheel.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Inventors: John Wilmot, Marty Meissner
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Publication number: 20110095508Abstract: The present invention provides a quick-release mechanism for the wheelchair and auxiliary operating lever. The quick-release mechanism includes a pivoting seat of the operating lever, limiting rabbet and snapping rod. The pivoting seat of operating lever is provided with convex lug, and the limiting rabbet with mouthed profile is arranged at the front of the convex lug. The limiting rabbet forms a guide opening and a bracing flange. The guide opening is extended in an outward-dipping state. A snapping rod is arranged transversely onto the operating lever. The present invention allows to save the components and realize rapid removal and assembly with improved applicability.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: WU'S TECH Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chien-Liang CHIU
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Publication number: 20110089665Abstract: A cable actuator comprises a housing, a handle, and a locking pin. The handle is pivotally connected to the housing and is moveable between a released position and a locked position. The handle has a slot that terminates in a locking detent. The locking pin has a first end configured to pass through the slot and a second end configured to engage the locking detent. The locking pin is biased toward engagement with the locking detent such that when the lever is pivoted to the locked position, the locking detent aligns with the locking pin permitting the second end to engage the locking detent.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2010Publication date: April 21, 2011Applicant: SUNRISE MEDICAL HHG, INC.Inventors: Richard E. Schneider, Harlan H. Hart, Samuel D. Traxinger
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Patent number: 7921953Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising an open frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and a side structure. The side structure has an upper rail and a lower rail coupleable to the front structure and the rear structure. In one embodiment, a main mobility wheel is coupled to the side structure, and a knee rest is rotatably coupled to the front structure. The knee rest is adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position coupled to the front structure to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position from the front structure.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLCInventor: James Graham Irvine
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Patent number: 7921954Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile vehicle or wheelchair having the ability to provide stabilized transport to at least one individual on a variety of surfaces, slopes and/or terrains. In one aspect, the invention provides adjustment features allowing the mobile vehicle or wheelchair to accommodate individuals of various sizes and shapes. For example, the invention comprises a seat and an adjustable footrest which can be lengthened or shortened to accommodate different size individuals, including children. In one embodiment the distance between the footrest and the seat can be increased or decreased to accommodate different leg lengths of different individuals. The mobile unit or wheelchair of the invention may travel across smooth and very rough surfaces, slopes of varying or different angles and various outdoor terrains (including grassy, rocky, sandy, muddy and/or hilly terrains).Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2009Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Life Changing Chair, LLCInventors: Charles E. Johnson, Phillip N. Brown, Jim Penson
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Patent number: 7922187Abstract: Gentle and substantially linear vertical motion of a wheelchair foot support is expected to provide superior results for maintenance of a wheelchair user's leg muscle mass' thus reducing atrophy of the wheelchair user's legs. Additionally, gentle continuous motion of the foot support is expected to aid in maintaining elasticity of the wheelchair user's leg joint ligaments' thus reducing contractures. Accordingly, an atrophy-reducing wheelchair includes a movable foot support mounted to a linkage that is movably connected to the wheelchair frame. As the wheelchair moves in normal operation, rotation of a wheelchair wheel drives the linkage to provide substantially linear vertical reciprocation of the foot support.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Inventor: Bonnie Fremgen
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Patent number: 7905306Abstract: A system for assisting a person of limited mobility in moving from room to room within a home and performing essential daily activities includes a personal mobility device which includes transfer drivers which engage a transfer system to transition from a first elevation to a second elevation.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth L. Kramer, Marshall S. Dahneke, Reed N. Wilcox, Franz R. Gaag, David T. Schwanemann, Rainer B. Teufel, Peter A. Koloski, Thornton K. Lothrop, Ryan R. Berger
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Patent number: 7905504Abstract: A seat (14), particularly but not exclusively for a wheelchair, comprises a bottom rest (13, 60), a back rest support (18) rotatable relative to the bottom rest about an axis of rotation (100); and a back rest (22) slidably mounted on the back rest support and moveable therealong to vary its position relative to the bottom rest. The back rest is kinematically linked to the bottom rest such that the back rest moves nearer to the axis of rotation as the angle between the back rest support and the bottom rest increases.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2009Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Specmat LimitedInventors: Thomas Paul Suddaby, Sean Patrick Nelson
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Patent number: 7906050Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate and a manufacturing method thereof, and more particularly, to a customized wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate formed to fit a body shape and a manufacturing method thereof. In a method of manufacturing a customized wheelchair having a back plate and a seat plate which are designed to fit a body shape, the method includes steps of: forming a preliminary molding material which is directly formed to fit a back and a hip of a user; fixing the preliminary molding material to a molding frame; filling a foaming resin in the molding frame fixed with the preliminary molding material; hardening the foaming resin filled in the molding frame; and releasing a last molding material which is foamed and hardened to have a shape of the back and the hip of the user by the preliminary molding material.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Eugene Medicare Co., LtdInventor: Sung Lae Kim
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Patent number: 7896385Abstract: A foldable wheelchair includes a frame having a seat bottom and a seat back movable relative to the seat bottom, wherein the seat back can be moved between a folded position such that the seat back extends generally parallel to a plane defined by the seat bottom and one or more unfolded positions to provide back support to a user. The foldable wheelchair can have a leg support movable relative to the seat bottom and can be moved between an unfolded position to support a user's legs and a folded position such that the leg support extends generally parallel to said plane defined by the seat bottom. In the folded position, the seat back, seat bottom and leg support define generally parallel planes.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Inventor: Michael Every
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Patent number: 7886854Abstract: The present invention provides a wheelchair structure, which is available with a handle, seat and wheel body. The handle is provided with an integrated control seat, and the wheel body is provided with auxiliary drive unit and combined positioning member. The integrated control seat can be assembled securely onto the wheelchair handles of different diameters and curvatures, and the swinging angle can be adjusted flexibly. Thus, it is possible to guarantee outstanding adaptability of assembly, efficient and convenient operation with improved applicability.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2008Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Wu's Tech Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chien-Liang Chiu
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Patent number: 7878523Abstract: A positioner means co-operable with a collapsed wheelchair frame, including a front frame, and configured, for selectively retaining the wheelchair in collapsed position, in one position of said positioner means, and for allowing expansion of the wheelchair in another position of the positioner means relative to the frame, and for positioning said frame to space the wheelchair front wheels to allow free swiveling thereof, and comprising, in combination, a clamp attached to said frame at two spaced apart locations associated with the two front wheels, to lock the wheels at predetermined spacing, for swiveling, the clamp including brackets sized to releasably push-connect to the front frame at said two locations.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2008Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: Herman D. Ferch
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Patent number: 7871094Abstract: A modular wheelchair assembly is adapted to be reconfigured between a fixed angle of tilt, a dynamically adjustable tilt-in-space configuration with the tilt axis being near the user's knees and a dynamically adjustable tilt-in-space configuration with the tilt axis being near the user's center of gravity. The reconfiguration is achieved by modifying a limited number of selectively removable components of the support assembly or the pivot assembly of the wheelchair.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2007Date of Patent: January 18, 2011Assignee: PDG, Inc.Inventors: Nancy Balcom, Louis Belanger, Torr Brown, Janusz Krawczynski, Phil Mundy, David Harding, David Cheng Cheng
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Patent number: 7861735Abstract: A folding canopy for a mobility device, such as a wheelchair or scooter, can be displaced, via switch activation, from a folded position behind the backrest to the operating position above the mobility device. In the folded position, the canopy and structural members are kept behind the backrest. A press of the switch located on the armrest activates an electric motor and drives a mechanical assembly comprising of: two gears a shaft and two U-shape tubular structural members attached to weather resistant upholstery. The canopy and structural members assemble directly above the vehicle. Another press of the switch retracts the canopy.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2008Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Inventors: Karol Piotr Stepaniuk, Hugo Israel Gallegos
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Publication number: 20100327557Abstract: An electric wheelchair is disclosed. The electric wheelchair includes a main frame correspondingly pivoted with a foldable chair while the folding of the chair connects with an accessory tip wheel. Moreover, the main frame is disposed with main wheels and a front wheel set arranged on front of the main wheel correspondingly on each of two sides thereof. A footrest that is pulled out or stored in the main frame is arranged between the two front wheel sets. In use, the footrest is pulled out of the main frame and the chair is moved and unfolded. At the same time, the accessory tip wheel tilted a little angle is extended out of the main frame by a connecting member. Thereby the problem caused by movement of the center of gravity of the wheelchair while moving can be solved and the safety of users is ensured.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2009Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventor: Arthur Wang
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Patent number: 7850188Abstract: Apparatus for connecting together two objects comprises: a body for attachment to a first object and having a concave surface and a corresponding convex surface; a clamp for attachment to a second object and having a first jaw and a second jaw moveable relative to the first jaw, the first and second jaws being configured to engage respectively the concave and convex surfaces of the body when applying a clamping force thereto, wherein at least one jaw comprises at least one tooth configured to bite into the body as the clamping force is applied, thereby resisting movement between the body and the clamp. A chair, in particular a wheelchair for disabled persons, has one or more rests mounted on apparatus as detailed above.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Specmat LimitedInventors: Thomas Paul Suddaby, Sean Patrick Nelson
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Patent number: 7850189Abstract: A curb climbing wheelchair system having left and right side attachments are designed to be attached to left and right side portions, respectively, of a standard wheelchair to enable a wheelchair occupant to climb a curb, bump or other obstruction without the aid of another individual. Each attachment includes a ramp extending from a telescoping arm that is designed to be attached, via a clamping system, to one side of the wheelchair. When not in use, the ramps are folded and stowed away on the sides of the wheelchair. During use, the ends of the ramps are placed on the curb to allow the wheelchair occupant to roll up the curb. To retrieve the ramps (now disposed behind the wheelchair), the wheelchair occupant moves the telescoping arms, if necessary with the aid of an attached circular handle, to lift the ramps thus allowing the wheelchair occupant to grab the ramps. The retrieved ramps then are stowed away until needed.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2008Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Inventors: Benjamin Barber, Richard Bordoni, Julia Brady, Max Brivic, Michael Cornell, James Doerhoff, Jonathan Goldszmidt, Jeffrey Rovenpor, Sahib Singh, David B. Ponterio, Ahron Rosenfeld
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Patent number: 7845667Abstract: A device to help an individual with a disability carry his or her bag or storage unit on their wheelchair or other mobility device, without requiring a large space to deploy the storage and retrieval product. The invention consists of a set of arms, connected to a sliding mechanism along a track. When the user wishes to access his or her belongings, the bag slides from a storage position behind the wheelchair to a retrieval position perpendicular to the wheelchair's armrest. The deployment process is accomplished without rotating the entire mechanism around a central axis. Thus, the invention keeps the storage unit close to the wheelchair and therefore takes up less space during retrieval and increases stability during deployment.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: University of South FloridaInventors: Sebastian Mahler, Alec E. Beasley, Ramy Wassef, Vanja Kravarusic, Shawn Shoemaker