With Seat Patents (Class 4/483)
  • Patent number: 4287619
    Abstract: The chair of the invention comprises a chair frame and accessories which can be assembled in various combinations and can be operated in various modes to perform a plurality of functions by which persons with physical limitations can become more independent while bathing or toileting. The chair legs can fit inside of a bathtub or shower allowing the chair to become a bath aid, yet, the chair legs are sufficiently wide to allow the chair with a toilet seat to straddle a conventional toilet as a toilet seat riser. The removable back allows the chair to be positioned properly over the toilet bowl, and the structure allows lateral access for perineal therapy. A commode pan is insertable below the seat to convert the chair into a commode. For those uses the chair further provides side handholds or raised armrests as desired. An armrest from either side converts to a bridgeboard which extends laterally, allowing the person to transfer in a sitting position to and from a wheelchair, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1981
    Inventors: William R. Brewer, Hamilton C. de Jong
  • Patent number: 4261613
    Abstract: A van having a forward cab section and a rear passenger/cargo section is convertible to a tall wall pickup or camper shell configuration by an overhead door or roof panel which is movable from a position overlying and covering an overhead roof opening to an upstanding vertical position. The movable roof panel defines a partition between the cab section and the rear passenger/cargo section, thereby providing a tall wall, open cargo area or camper conversion space. The van is equipped with a side wall door opening and docking receptacles for receiving stub tow bar beams of a trailer vehicle wherein the trailer can be towed by the van to a camping location, uncoupled from the rear of the van and docked into engagement with the side wall door opening, thereby augmenting the living space within the van through its side door opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1981
    Inventor: Thomas E. Alford