Abstract: A lifting apparatus is easily attached to a conventional wheelchair and allows the wheelchair to successfully negotiate stepped obstacles, such as steps and curbs. The apparatus includes two parallel base runners that are extended from beneath the wheelchair to the ground to act as a lifting platform. A lifting subsystem then moves the wheelchair vertically and horizontally to the height of the step, and a sliding subsystem then moves the wheelchair forward onto the step. Descending a step is accomplished in a reverse sequence of operations.

Abstract: A wheelchair lift, as for use with a vehicle, includes a platform for receiving a wheelchair carried as a pivot mechanism including two pairs of cooperating parallelogram structures adopted to be affixed to a vehicle for moving the platform between loading, entry and stowed positions by hydraulic actuation. A bridge plate structure is actuated by the pivot mechanism to be positioned as a bridge into the vehicle in the entry position, as a roll stop when a wheelchair is being carried and as a latch unit in the stowed position. A cam-cable mechanism actuates the bridge plate and the parallelogram structures of each pair are interlocked in moving between the stowed and entry positions.

Abstract: An improved safety barrier/ramp actuation mechanism for combination folding stair and platform wheelchair lifts which translate from one configuration to the other depending upon the purpose to be served and have a combination safety barrier/ramp at the outboard end of the platform, the mechanism comprising a triple link mechanism and internally contained piston and bellcrank for reciprocating said barrier/ramp, and a pressure relief for said system to prevent raising said barrier/ramp when a load is resting thereon in ramp position, and the invention includes new steps in the method of operation of the stair and lift combination to enhance the safety thereof.

Abstract: A wheelchair lift with hydraulic power unit and automated folding platform for installation on the floor, inside the opening defining walls of a vehicle to provide for loading and unloading of wheelchair occupants to and from the vehicle. Completely automated, retractable, collapsable folding platform. Hydraulic power unit (10) of the lift and the hydraulic cylinder (28) are totally enclosed, and contained in the power box. The power unit provides power for upward motion of the platform and gravity descent for downward motion of the platform. The platform is pivotally retracted and held in a vertical position in half of the opening space of the vehicle door. The folding motion is accomplished by a folding arm driven against a cam roller which starts the motion of the ball joint linkages inside the platform tubing structure. This initiates a resulting revolving motion of one half section of the platform which folds the platform in a smooth un-interrupted continuous manner.

Abstract: A linkage assembly (20) for use with a platform or step lift (22) for transmitting force from a linear actuator (228) to a ramp (40) pivotally attached to the outer edge of the platform (26) of the lift so as to cause the ramp to travel through a rotational path of at least 180 degrees. The linkage assembly is designed so that no portion thereof extends more than about 0.25 inch above the upper surface (28) of the ramp and the top surface (48) of the platform, and so that the ramp is driven downwardly toward the extended position with a force insufficient to cause serious injury to a person's feet positioned in the path of travel of the ramp. Additionally, a hinge structure (700) is provided for use with a step lift for coupling the platform with its vertical extensions (66, 68) so as to permit the latter to pivot relative to the platform as the extensions move up and down within the vertical guides (80, 82) in which the vertical extensions are slidably received.

Abstract: The vehicle transport trailer (10) has a frame (12) supported by wheels (16). A horizontal platform (18) is supported by the frame (12) and enclosed by front and side walls (22, 24, and 26) and a top (28). The top (28) includes an openable rear portion (34) attached to the front portion (32) by a hinge (36). A ramp (38) is attached to the frame (12) and is pivoted between a vertical position in which it closes an opening (30) and an inclined position with a free edge (42) on the ground. A front securing assembly (56) prevents rearward movement of a transported vehicle (196). A rear securing assembly (140) prevents forward movement of a transported vehicle (196). The front securing assembly (56) includes left and right side hook assemblies (58 and 60) which automatically engage a transported vehicle. The rear securing assembly (140) includes left and right side rear hook and cable assemblies (142 and 144) with cables (148 and 182) attached to cable tensioning arms (150 and 184).

Abstract: A lift mountable in a transporting vehicle for loading and unloading objects such as small motorized carts. The lift includes an adjustable stand and pivotal boom assembly. An electric motor selectively operates a drum on which is wound a lifting cable or strap which terminates at a lifting hook or claw which is attachable to the cart or object. The adjustability of the stand and boom make the lift highly versatile and adaptable for convenient mounting in different vehicle configurations.

Abstract: A combination folding stair and platform wheelchair lift which translates from one configuration to the other depending upon the purpose to be served utilizing a series of panels which form a flat platform or alternatively steps and risers and which reciprocate horizontally on a pair of side rails and which are raised and lowered vertically in a pair of side column frames by a pair of hydraulically driven endless chains.

Abstract: A lift-assist device is provided for securely clamping a wheelchair and then elevating and forwardly tipping the wheelchair to assist the occupant in rising from it to a standing position. The device operates with any conventional wheelchair design, the device having adjustment mechanisms to accommodate wheelchairs of varying size. The device eliminates the need for lift-assist wheelchairs to have their own integral lifting mechanisms which in the past have made such wheelchairs cumbersome and heavy. The present device is conveniently portable and much less expensive than wheelchairs with integral lift-assist mechanisms. Thus, the present invention provides wheelchair-bound persons with greater mobility than was previously available by greatly improving the usefulness of conventional non-lift-assist wheelchairs, which can now be given lifting assistance by the present invention in a variety of settings.

Abstract: A new and improved wheelchair tilting apparatus includes a base assembly and a wheelchair receiving assembly supported by the base assembly. The wheelchair receiving assembly includes a first platform portion and a first frame assembly supporting the first platform portion. The wheelchair receiving assembly also includes a second platform portion and a second frame assembly supporting the second platform portion. The first and second frame assemblies are connected to each other and oriented with respect to each other at a predetermined obtuse angle, such that the first and second platform portions are oriented with respect to each other at the predetermined obtuse angle. A tilt assembly is supported by the base assembly and is provided for tilting the wheelchair receiving assembly after a wheelchair is received in the wheelchair receiving assembly.

Abstract: A walker for a handicapped person has a pair of base rails juxtaposed, and a pair of front posts extend therefrom. Each front post is attached to a front of a respective rail. A first pair of rotation-changeable motors drives a pair of actuators, initially pointing upwardly. A first pair of gear reduction devices, which in combination with a pair of rear posts, can be rendered tiltable, has respective input shafts coupled to respective output shafts of the motors. The pair of tiltable rear posts are extendable or retractable by rotation-sense selection of the first pair of motors. A pair of crutch supports are in contact with the rear posts, Which fit under the armpits of the handicapped person. A pair of levers which extend outwardly and downwardly from the pair of crutch supports, respectively, are bent rearwardly, and equipped with handles.

Abstract: A wheelchair lifting platform device for raising or lowering of a wheelchair into or out of a vehicle. The invention includes a barrier safety mechanism which is connected to a wheelchair platform. The barrier safety mechanism includes a barrier plate and an activator flipper plate. The barrier plate extends vertically from, and is positioned substantially perpendicular to, a foldable platform during the raising or lowering of a wheelchair. The barrier plate functions as a safety stop prohibiting the inadvertent rolling of a wheelchair off of the platform. The activator flipper plate is pivotally connected to the platform and to the barrier plate. The activator flipper plate functions to engage a road surface as the platform is lowered, for retraction of the barrier plate as the activator flipper plate engages the ground. The invention additionally includes a latching mechanism for coupling a foldable wheelchair platform to the frame of a wheelchair lift device.

Abstract: The disclosure comprises a tray mountable under the floor of a vehicle, which tray contains an extendible ramp mechanism. This mechanism comprises a ramp and a driving panel for the ramp. The ramp is fulcrummed intermediate its ends on the outer ends of parallel arms extending from the driving panel. Also in the tray, as part of the driving mechanism, are a pair of parallel toothed belts driven by a reversible rotating motor, which belts are attached to the driving panel for extending and retracting the ramp from the tray. Mounted under the driving panel is a reciprocating motor connected by a crank arm to a shaft having additional crank arms pivotally connected to the underside of the ramp adjacent the driving panel. When the ramp is fully extended, the reciprocating motor tilts the ramp so that its inner end is moved upwardly to be flush with the floor of the vehicle. Simultaneously, the outer end of the ramp contacts the ground.

Abstract: A mechanism is provided for deploying a wheelchair ramp at the door of a vehicle, especially a bus, the ramp being of the kind which rotates between a stowed position at which it is flush with the vehicle floor and a deployed position in which it slopes downwardly and outwardly from the vehicle. The mechanism provides a "float down" feature which permits the ramp to move downward under gravity without the need for operator control and prevents crushing of obstacles that get in the downward path of the ramp. The mechanism includes a transmission for translating a single hydraulic cylinder stroke into more than 180.degree. of rotation of the ramp.

Abstract: An automatic push button wheelchair securement device for mounting on the floor of a wheelchair transporting vehicle.As the wheelchair occupant rolls the wheelchair to the designated location on the securement device; by pressing a push button the holding flaps of the securement device will rise by means of two air cylinders to contact the rear large wheels tangentially, hence, providing securement for the chair and preventing it from rolling forward or backward in case of sudden stops or collision of the vehicle.The holding flaps, in another embodiment may be comprised of four individual holding flaps self adjusted and positioned by means of electrical linear actuator and infrared sensing device.

Abstract: A step-type vehicle lift is provided with a linkage assembly (20) and horizontally oriented barrier cylinder (228) that enables movement of a barrier plate (102) between a retracted position and a barrier position while the step/platform assembly (24) is in the step position. A hinge (800) that connects the barrier plate (102) to an outer platform member (103) and is provided with at least one laterally extending projection (810). When the step/platform assembly (24) is in the step position, and the barrier plate (102) is moved to the retracted position, the projection (810) on the hinge (800) engages a slot (114) formed in the top of one of a pair of rails (108) that support the step/platform assembly (24), thereby latching the step/platform assembly (24) in the stowed position. When it is desired to extend the step/platform assembly (24) into the platform position, the barrier plate (102) is raised to the barrier position, thereby disengaging the projection (810) from the slot (114) in the rail (108).

Abstract: An access ramp for a van or a similar vehicle having a housing below the vehicle floor and adjacent door which houses the ramp structure. A carrier is extendable and retractable and is mechanically linked to a ramp platform. A boom arm on the carrier extends when the carrier extends and guides a cable which is motor driven to lower and lift the platform. Lift cams elevate the inner end of the platform when the platform is extended to bring it into close proximity with the vehicle floor.

Abstract: A vehicle lift for transporting a handicapped passenger between a vehicle and the ground is stowed in an enclosed compartment when the lift is not in use, so that the lift is protected from outside elements such as moisture, dirt, pollution, and snow. Moreover, the lift is suitable for use in a vehicle having a fixed passenger access step. In accordance with the invention, a part of the vehicle staircase is movable between an opened position in which the lift platform is accessible for use to transport a passenger and a closed position in which the lift is enclosed in a compartment beneath the vehicle floor. When the platform is moved to and from the deployed position, the movable part of the staircase is caused to move between the opened and closed positions by a platform-mounted driver that engages a driven member attached to the movable part of the staircase. A biasing member maintains the movable part of the staircase in the opened and closed positions.

Abstract: A passenger lift incorporates an electronic safety interlock to prevent all movement of the lift, until a restraining belt is fastened. In some embodiments, the interlock is a normally open electric switch located inside the restraining belt's buckle. The switch is closed and the movement of the lift actuated only when the restraining belt's matingly interlocking tab is inserted in the buckle.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for a vehicle, which comprises: a platform adapted to be fitted into a cut portion formed at the backward portion of the floor of a vehicle; a drive element provided at support members attached to the lower part of the floor; a drive shaft axially supported by the support members so that it rotates by expanding or contracting movement of a working rod of the drive element; an L-shaped drive arm having an elbow portion fixed to the drive shaft, a short rod portion, and a long rod portion pivotally supported by the platform; an L-shaped driven arm provided oppositely to the drive arm and having a long rod portion similarly pivotally supported by the platform, an elbow portion pivotally supported by the support member, and a short rod portion; and a connecting rod having both end portions respectively pivotally supported by the short rod portions of the driven arm and the drive arm, and adapted for transmitting a drive force of the drive element.

Abstract: A support system for a bather's lift for aiding invalids to enter and exit a bathtub is constructed so that the lift assembly may readily be removed and stored away when it is not in use. The system includes a vertical column for supporting the lift. This column has a lower end, which engages a mating projection on a floor plate. The floor plate, in turn, is not bolted to the floor, but includes a pair of downwardly extending lugs which fit into corresponding recesses in the floor. At the upper end, the vertical column has an extension, which passes through a mating hole in a support bar extending parallel to the bathtub and attached to the end walls at each end of the bathtub. This support bar may be used as a shower curtain rod; but when the extension on the end of the vertical column for stabilizing and supporting the seat support passes into it, the entire assembly is rigidly held in place for use of the seat.

Abstract: Access to a rail vehicle is effected by a board that is movable between a retracted position in which it is housed beneath the top face of the floor of the vehicle and an extended position in which it constitutes an access ramp between a platform and an entrance doorsill of the vehicle. The device includes an actuator for driving the board and a stop terminating translation of the board in its extended position. The actuator is disposed in the plane of the board. The device also tilts the board after stopping the board's movement in translation so that the outside end of the board rests on the platform and so that the board co-operates with the entrance doorsill to provide a continuous surface without any offset. The entrance doorsill remains stationary.

Abstract: the roof top carrier of the present invention has a roof top platform that moves horizontally between a storage position at the center of the roof of a motor home and an extended position adjacent the side of the motor home. A drop cradle moves vertically out of the roof top platform in its extended position to a lower position at ground level to provide user access to equipment or luggage stored in the roof top carrier. Two separate motors power the horizontal movement and the vertical movement for moving the equipment and luggage from the roof to the lower position at ground level alongside the motor home.

Abstract: A housing mounted to a vehicle floor is arranged to permit removal and extension of an extension member therefrom, having an extension plate pivotally mounted to the extension member to provide for a ramp structure relative to the associated vehicle. The housing is arranged to include a central plate extending from a first end of the housing to an orientation spaced from a second end of the housing for positioning and mounting of a vehicle chair thereon, with an abutment block extending from the central plate to a second side wall of the vehicle for abutment of a chair wheel, with central plate abutment members positioned on the central plate in adjacency to the first end for securing the chair between the central plate abutment members and the abutment block. Security straps are mounted to the side walls for securement of the chair to the housing top wall.

Abstract: A device (10) for raising and lowering an impaired person between the ground and a higher level for boarding and deplaning from an airplane. The device (10) comprises a wheeled frame (12) and a hydraulic lift for raising and lowering the person (14). The hydraulic lift (14) extends upwardly from the wheeled frame (12). The device (10) also comprises a platform (16) oriented transversely in relation to the hydraulic lift (14), the platform (16) being adapted for supporting the impaired person or a wheelchair in which the person reposes. The device (10) also has a protective enclosure (18) mounted upon the platform (16) which surrounds the impaired person.

Abstract: Steps are convertible into a platform of an elevator for wheelchairs such as installed in vehicles and buses, during which conversion a barrier is automatically raised from the bottom step to be at the outer edge of the platform. The barrier is operated by an extensible link under the bottom step, which link is connected between the barrier and a crank arm keyed to an oscillatible transverse shaft under the inner part of the bottom step. Two additional crank arms are keyed to the ends of this shaft and are connected to a frame for a step or riser to oscillate said shaft when the steps are extended and unfolded into their platform position. The extendible link extends the barrier into a ramp when the platform is in its lowest position for access by a wheelchair. Reciprocating motors such as hydraulic pistons extend, retract, fold and unfold the panels that form the steps and their intermediate risers.

Abstract: A wheelchair lift apparatus which may be adapted for use in an existing motor vehicle in lieu of a seat structure removably coupled to the floor pan. The lift apparatus includes a motor driven horizontal screw for laterally moving a platform across the vehicle to exit the rear passenger compartment through a side door opening. The platform has a vertical side extension and carries a foldable wheelchair, for example, whose two sides collapse inwardly. The lift apparatus further includes motor driven linkage members for pivoting the platform and folded wheelchair from outside the rear passenger compartment toward the front of the vehicle. The platform and folded wheelchair are next vertically adjusted alongside either the driver or a front seat passenger door opening, depending upon whether the side door opening is on the right or left side of the vehicle.

Abstract: A hydraulic drive passenger lift with distinct lifting "up and down" (loading, unloading) and "fold-unfold" (storage) motion patterns, includes a flow control structure that accommodates various hydraulic flows, somewhat unrestricted for "up-and-down" movement, and different for "fold" and "unfold" movements. The flow control structure includes multiple paths between a source and an actuator, with control for selecting the appropriate path to yield predetermined flow rates. A solenoid driven spool valve and a biased movable orifice member select the desired path. Accordingly, while the flow is substantially unrestricted during "up-and-down" movement, it is somewhat restricted for reduced speed during the "unfold" movement and is more restricted during the power-driven "fold" movement.

Abstract: A ramp stowable beneath the floor of a vehicle is normally power driven between retracted and extended positions. The drive, or propelling, mechanism for the ramp provides for the ramp to be manually disconnected from the propelling mechanism for manual extension and retraction in the event of a power failure in the system.

Abstract: A vehicle lift (10) for transporting a wheelchair passenger between a ground-level position adjacent the vehicle (12) to a position adjacent to and substantially coplanar with the vehicle floor (14) includes a contact sensor (16) for detecting when the lift platform contacts a curb or other object. A carriage assembly (20) includes a pair of slides (34) that ride on a pair of rails (36). As the platform is lowered, the relative position of the slides (34) and the rails (36) changes. The sensor (16) detects a relative position of one of the slides (34) and the corresponding rail (36). When the sensor (16) detects a relative position of the slide (34) and the rail (36) indicating that the platform has contacted a curb or other object, the sensor (16) generates a control signal. A lift controller (60) stops lowering of the platform in response to the control signal from the sensor (16).

Abstract: The invention concerns an off-highway motor vehicle for paraplegic handicapped persons. It comprises a frame (1) whose base (1') has a U shape open towards the front, the paraplegic sitting on his wheelchair (3) being installed between the branches of the frame. The branches of the U are extended by two box plate girders (2) rotary-joined onto the frame and each including two wheels (8). The vehicle comprises a tubular frame (4) cooperating with two shoes (5) for embarking, disembarking, and storing away the wheelchair. The frame and shoes are rotary-joined (B,C) to the frame and interconnected by a rocker bar (6). A kinematic chain transmits the movement of the drive train (7) to four driving wheels (8). The controls of the drive train and of the vehicle are provided on the frame (4).

Abstract: A mechanism is provided for a stair-lift platform including a stair-lift carriage which runs up and down a flight of stairs and a platform which form a bridge to the carriage at the top of the stairs, the platform being lowered so as to constitute the bridge and raised out of the way when the carriage descends, the mechanism comprising a coupling unit fixed with respect to the stairs, a linkage from the coupling unit to the platform and a pick-up on the carriage, the pick-up engaging the coupling unit so as to cause a following movement of the coupling unit with respect to the carriage, which following movement causes the platform to be raised and lowered via the linkage.

Abstract: A linkage assembly (20) for use with a platform or step lift (22) for transmitting force from a linear actuator (228) to a ramp (40) pivotally attached to the outer edge of the platform (26) of the lift so as to cause the ramp to travel through a rotational path of at least 180 degrees. The linkage assembly is designed so that no portion thereof extends more than about 0.25 inch above the upper surface (28) of the ramp and the top surface (48) of the platform, and so that the ramp is driven downwardly toward the extended position with a force insufficient to cause serious injury to a person's feet positioned in the path of travel of the ramp. Additionally, a hinge structure (700) is provided for use with a step lift for coupling the platform with its vertical extensions (66, 68) so as to permit the latter to pivot relative to the platform as the extensions move up and down within the vertical guides (80, 82) in which the vertical extensions are slidably received.

Abstract: A combination desk and wheelchair-lift adapted primarily for medical-surgical examination/treatment of a wheelchair-seated person comprises a mobile desk unit having a selectively retractable caster assembly. The wheelchair lift is attached to the desk by a linking slider assembly and is movable between a stored position underneath the desk and an extended position spaced from the desk. When in the extended position, a wheelchair may be rolled onto the wheelchair-lift rotatable platform and raised in a vertical direction by electrically actuated lifting mechanisms on either side of the platform. A clamp assembly is provided adjacent one of the lifting mechanisms for attaching a variety of diagnostic examination/treatment or medical-surgical equipment positioned adjacent the patient seated in the wheelchair.

Abstract: A bathtub lift employing a hydraulic cylinder reciprocatably mounted about an elongate shaft has the cylinders mounting a seat member thereto, wherein a valve member is arranged for operative filling of an upper chamber within the cylinder to effect lifting of the chair and specifically permitting exhausting of fluid from the cylinder to permit lowering of the chair within a bathtub as the cylinder is rotatably mounted about the shaft.

Abstract: An improved dual hydraulic, parallelogram arm wheel chair lift assembly for use in commercial vehicles, such as vans or buses. The lift assembly includes a platform connected at one end to a pair of parallelogram linkages, each of which is provided with a power-up, gravity-down hydraulic cylinder for pulling the parallelogram linkages and platform from a lowered loading position to an immediate transfer position, and thence to a folded, generally upright stored position. The pulling action of the hydraulic cylinders with hydraulic fluid working on the rod side reduces side loading on the piston head and wear on pivot pins of the parallelogram linkages. The hydraulic cylinders are self-bleeding of air during gravity down operation to reduce spongy and jerky operation. The lift assembly has an improved base member employing an additional base support plate to form a box structure to increase strength and reduce moment-induced bending of the mounting plate.

Abstract: A wheelchair including a wheeled base assembly provided with an upright assembly thereon, the latter including a pair of vertical post arrangements which are provided adjacent front corners of the wheelchair and are vertically extendible and retractable. The upright assembly includes a pair of generally parallel and approximately horizontal arms which are mounted adjacent upper ends of the upright post arrangements. A seat assembly is removably attached to and positioned between the arms. The seat assembly includes a seat portion defined by normally vertically superimposed upper and lower seat subassemblies. The upper subassembly has an enlarged opening formed centrally therethrough. The lower subassembly can be detached and moved from beneath the upper subassembly to permit the seat portion of the wheelchair to be positioned directly over and utilized in conjunction with a conventional toilet so as to not require removal of the occupant from the seat assembly.

Abstract: An invalid assistance device mounted on a wall in which a supported locked and guided flexible line is used to stabilize an invalid in the range of desired vertical positions from sitting to standing while a single attendant can work with the stabilized invalid.

Abstract: A collapsible stair lift is operable between an upper floor level and a lower floor level. The lift has a set of collapsing steps that lower from their normal in use condition to a position in which the treads of the various steps are flush with the lower floor. A platform is located at the top of the stairs and lowers from the top of the stairs to a position flush with the stair treads. The unit is particularly useful in domestic environments where space is limited.

Abstract: An adjustable wheelchair lift for a vehicle wherein the lift includes a platform, a mounting structure having two spaced apart, vertically extending, support posts mountable to the vehicle, a linkage for moving the platform to and from the vehicle and a chain-and-sprocket drive for moving the linkage. Each support post has a main portion and an adjustable portion, preferably both being channel shaped. The adjustable portion slides along the main portion until the desired height is reached. The channels also interlock at their edges to prevent lateral movement of the adjustable portion when it is unconnected to the main portion.

Abstract: In order to board or exit a vehicle, one or a plurality of steps or plates are provided for negotiation of a possible difference of height by a person in a wheelchair entering or getting off between the level of the floor of the vehicle and a platform at a higher or lower level. At least one step or plate is foreseen which is height adjustable, and can be positioned at a position above the floor of the vehicle, below the floor of the vehicle, or at the same level as the floor of the vehicle.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus is easily attached to a conventional wheelchair and allows the wheelchair to successfully negotiate stepped obstacles, such as steps and curbs. The apparatus includes two parallel base runners that are extended from beneath the wheelchair to the ground to act as a lifting platform. A lifting subsystem then moves the wheelchair vertically and horizontally to the height of the step, and a sliding subsystem then moves the wheelchair forward onto the step. Descending a step is accomplished in a reverse sequence of operations.

Abstract: A passenger lift incorporates an electronic safety interlock to prevent all movement of the lift, until a restraining belt is fastened. In some embodiments, the interlock is a normally open electric switch located inside the restraining belt's buckle. The switch is closed and the movement of the lift actuated only when the restraining belt's matingly interlocking tab is inserted in the buckle.

Abstract: A passenger lift system for mobile vehicular use which functions either as a retractable step system for the vehicle or as a vertically movable elevator platform for non-ambulatory passengers transporting non-ambulatory passengers from an upper position level with the vehicle to a lower position at ground level. The lift system includes a vertical safety barrier at the outermost edge of the platform which, when not in use, collapses to form the lowermost step in the step system. The lift is moved by hydraulic actuated motors or electro-mechanical devices, or the like, whose operation and motive power is independent of the vehicles propulsion system and is controlled by appropriate electrical sensors which detect and correct any malfunction thereof.

Abstract: A lift apparatus for an above ground spa or pool to enable a handicapped or infirm person access to and egress from the spa or pool without the need for an attendant to assist them. The lift comprises an upright base securely mounted adjacent to one wall of the above ground spa. The base supports a lift arm assembly having a seat mounted thereon. Lift and rotate controls are provided to permit the seat occupant to raise the seat to a fully elevated position above the wall of the spa, to swing the seat and occupant across the wall and to lower the seat to a desired height within the spa. The lift arm is powered by water driven hydraulics which are configured such that the seat can only be pivoted when it is in its fully elevated position above the wall of the spa.

Abstract: A transfer seat permits a wheelchair bound patient to transfer from the wheelchair to the seat of an automobile. A peg on one side of the frame of the seat slides within a vertical tube used to support a removable arm of the wheelchair. The frame further provides for feet on the other side of the seat adapted to rest on the lower door frame of the automobile and support the transfer seat.

Abstract: An attachment for the rear of a motor vehicle for transporting a personal mobility vehicle includes a load carrying frame pivotally attached to a first frame member and is pivotable from a storage position to an extended load carrying position transverse to and extending rearwardly from the first frame member. Such support arms on each side of the attachment are provided to attach the frame members together in the extended position. A load securing cross member is secured at one end to the center of the first frame member and at its opposite end to the center of the rear frame member. A hoist mechanism may be attached to one end of the first frame member rotatable on the support about a vertical axis and pivotable thereon in a vertical plane.

Abstract: A self propelled steerable vehicle for transporting a wheelchair bound passenger between two separate locations, such as between a terminal and an aircraft parked on a ramp, includes a lift assembly mounted on said vehicle for movement from a lowermost position to an operator selectable upper position. The vehicle is provided with an operator's compartment containing steering, braking, motive and lift assembly controls. An internal combustion engine powers a hydraulic system for both moving the vehicle and powering the lift assembly. A passenger's compartment carried by said lift assembly is provided with a pair of ramps which are movable from a loading position to a traveling position. In the loading position, hand rails are automatically extended. Gas cylinders between the hand rails and the ramp assist the operator is raising the ramps. In the traveling position, the ramps act as gates for the passenger compartment.

Abstract: A wheelchair arrangement provided with a wheeled base assembly having an upright assembly thereon, the latter including a pair of vertically extendible post arrangements positioned on opposite sides of the wheelchair arrangement. The upright assembly includes a pair of top arm arrangements which are cantilevered rearwardly from the upper ends of the posts arrangements. A seat assembly is removably attached to and positioned between the arm arrangements to facilitate transferring of an occupant, along with the seat assembly, either to or from the wheelchair arrangement. The arm arrangements permit both linear movement of the seat assembly in the front-to-rear direction and horizontal pivoting movement of the seat assembly sidewardly relative to the base assembly so that the seat assembly is oriented transversely relative to the front-to-rear direction.

Abstract: A wheelchair carrier attaches to the back of a vehicle for transporting a wheelchair. A supporting frame attaches to a trailer hitch or the like and can pivot upwardly, out of the way, when not in use. A wheelchair housing is detachably mounted on the supporting frame by a flange and rod arrangement to enable the wheelchair to be quickly mounted and removed. The wheelchair housing has a long opening at the side which is closed off by an elongate door. The door is pivoted at the bottom and swings downwardly to serve as a ramp by means of which the wheelchair can be moved into and out of the housing with minimal effort. The carrier can also be used for other vehicles for non-ambulatory people, such as small self-propelled scooters.