Abstract: A patient transfer apparatus is provided and includes a frame, a seat assembly coupled to the frame, and a track assembly coupled to the frame. The track assembly includes a moveable track for traversing stairs and a motor configured to drive the track. The apparatus further includes a control system. The control system includes a controller configured to control the motor and to adjust a speed of the apparatus based on at least one of an occupancy of the seat assembly upon traversing the stairs and a condition of the stairs.

Abstract: A method for digging out a motor vehicle at a standstill, in which the driver predefines a startup direction for the motor vehicle with the aid of an operating element; in which a reciprocating motion of the motor vehicle is generated with the aid of chronologically consecutive drive force pulses which are independent of the driver and have a first intensity; in which the spatial amplitude of the reciprocating motion is ascertained and compared to a predefined threshold value; and when the spatial amplitude of the reciprocating motion of the motor vehicle exceeds the threshold value, a startup movement of the motor vehicle is subsequently generated in the predefined startup direction using at least one drive force pulse which is directed in the predefined startup direction and which has a second intensity, which is greater than the first intensity.

Abstract: Described herein is a sliding device (1) designed to receive a vehicle (7). The sliding device includes a frame (5) on which the vehicle is intended to be received, at least three sliding wheels (3a-d) vertically adjustable relative to the frame and each wheel operatively connected to the frame via at least one vertically disposed rotatable shaft (9a-d), a plurality of vertical folding shafts (19a-d) connected to the frame, a plurality of cross bars (14a-b, 15a-b) elevated relative to the frame, the cross bars are operatively connected to the wheels via the rotatable shafts (9a-d), and pivotally connected to the frame via the vertical folding shafts (19a-d) so that each of the cross bars is movable between a folded and an unfolded position (3), and a folding lock (21) adapted to lock the vertical folding shaft (19a-d) relative the frame in the unfolded position to prevent it from being turned.

Abstract: A vehicle trolley device for mobilizing a vehicle with a flattened tire includes a ramp that comprises a field that is coupled to and extends between a pair of side supports. A plurality of wheels is coupled to a lower face of the ramp. The plurality of wheels is positioned proximate to a top end of the ramp. A plurality of fasteners is configurable to secure the ramp to the bottom of a flattened tire of a vehicle. The plurality of wheels is positioned on the ramp such that the ramp is configured for the user to position a vehicle that has a flattened tire onto the ramp. The ramp then is not in contact with the ground. The plurality of fasteners is configured to secure the flattened tire to the ramp, such that the user can drive the vehicle.

Abstract: A method of releasing a stuck vehicle, in which a stuck situation is recognized and a rocking-free process is initiated and continued until the rocking-free process is suppressed. The rocking-free process is suppressed either after the activation of a parking brake of the vehicle, which was inactive at the beginning of and during the rocking-free process, for a predetermined time interval, or after the registration of a limit value of a deflection of a drive pedal of the vehicle and after the limit value of the deflection of the drive pedal is maintained or exceeded for a predetermined time interval, or after a vehicle speed falls to almost zero km/h, a minimum actuation of a drive pedal of the vehicle is registered, the vehicle speed is maintained for a predetermined time interval and the minimum actuation is maintained for the predetermined time interval.

Abstract: A wheelchair transportation system for transporting a wheelchair over at least one obstacle, including a wheelchair transportation unit being operable to transport the wheelchair over the at least one obstacle during at least one transportation operation of the wheelchair. The wheelchair transportation unit includes a pivotal support platform configured to support the wheelchair and pivotally coupled to a chassis of the wheelchair transportation unit, the pivotal support platform includes at least one group of rotating members frictionally engaging at least one main wheel of the wheelchair. During the at least one transportation operation, the at least one main wheel being operable to rotate the at least one group of rotating members thereby a wheelchair user operably controls and guides the wheelchair transportation unit by adjusting at least one rotational speed of the at least one main wheel.

Abstract: A system for the transport of a cargo tracked vehicle, including a wheeled mobile platform to carry the tracked vehicle, the wheeled mobile platform being powered by a power plant of the cargo tracked vehicle and controlled by at least one driving control of the cargo tracked vehicle. At least one controller assembly operatively connects at least one of the controls of the cargo tracked vehicle to at least one of the driving systems of the wheeled mobile platform, to allow a driver housed in the cargo tracked vehicle to drive the wheeled mobile platform. A method for transporting a cargo tracked vehicle on a wheeled mobile platform utilizing the power and driving controls of the cargo tracked vehicle. A system for driving a mobile wheeled platform under the power and control of a portable driver cabin.

Abstract: A wheelchair transportation system for transporting a wheelchair over at least one obstacle, including a wheelchair transportation unit being operable to transport the wheelchair over the at least one obstacle during at least one transportation operation of the wheelchair. The wheelchair transportation unit includes a pivotal support platform configured to support the wheelchair and pivotally coupled to a chassis of the wheelchair transportation unit, the pivotal support platform includes at least one group of rotating members frictionally engaging at least one main wheel of the wheelchair. During the at least one transportation operation, the at least one main wheel being operable to rotate the at least one group of rotating members thereby a wheelchair user operably controls and guides the wheelchair transportation unit by adjusting at least one rotational speed of the at least one main wheel.

Abstract: The track system includes a plurality of track assemblies, each having track; a frame structure to mount the track to the vehicle; and inner wheels in contact with an inner surface of the track. The track assembly also includes two drive gears disposed externally to the track and configured to frictionally engaged an outer surface of a corresponding one of the tires. The drive gears are drivingly connected with the track for transmitting power thereto. Each one of the drive gears has a rotation axis, a plurality of elongated traction bars extending substantially parallel and circumferentially to the rotation axis, and open ends. The elongated traction bars are spaced-apart from one another and define channels therebetween allowing granular and liquid materials to flow inwardly towards the rotation axis, and outwardly of the drive gears through the apertured ends.

Abstract: A system for the transport of a cargo tracked vehicle, including a wheeled mobile platform to carry the tracked vehicle, the wheeled mobile platform being powered by a power plant of the cargo tracked vehicle and controlled by at least one driving control of the cargo tracked vehicle. At least one controller assembly operatively connects at least one of the controls of the cargo tracked vehicle to at least one of the driving systems of the wheeled mobile platform, to allow a driver housed in the cargo tracked vehicle to drive the wheeled mobile platform. A method for transporting a cargo tracked vehicle on a wheeled mobile platform utilizing the power and driving controls of the cargo tracked vehicle. A system for driving a mobile wheeled platform under the power and control of a portable driver cabin.

Abstract: An attachment for an electric wheelchair that enables the electric wheelchair to be used in areas that would not otherwise be possible, e.g., beaches, mud, and tall grass. The attachment is powered off of the wheelchair's motor and allows the user to explore terrain that would not be possible in conventional wheelchair designs.

Abstract: A platform drive base that is mounted by a vehicle, in particular an electric wheelchair that supplies power and control of the drive base allowing the wheelchair to traverse compromising terrain. Wheels of the wheelchair spin freely when mounted on the platform surface. An axle connects to the drive base and the drive train of the wheel chair. As the wheel chair wheels spin, the axle communicates the rotation to the wheels of the drive base. Each wheel of the drive base communicates independently with each wheel of the wheelchair allowing the base to be controlled by the wheelchair controls.

Abstract: This invention pertains to an attachment to an electric wheelchair. The attachment enables an electric wheelchair to be used in areas that would not otherwise be possible. An electric wheelchair, though very useful and necessary, has several mobility drawbacks. Off road areas such as beaches, mud, and even tall grass pose a problem to the electric wheelchair. This invention provides an attachment to an existing electric wheelchair and powered off of that wheelchair's motor that allows the user to explore terrain that would not be possible in conventional wheelchair designs. By designing a drive system that works off of the electric wheelchair's power, the attachment can remain purely mechanical. With no motors or electric parts on the attachment, the design is simple and user friendly.

Abstract: A four-wheeled vehicle with a motorcycle body that allows the motorcycle body to be fixedly attached to metallic frame that includes a quartet of tires. The vehicle includes a metallic frame that has four “off-road” type tires attached to it. The vehicle also includes a motorcycle body which is essentially a motorcycle with the two tires stripped off of the body. The motorcycle body can be fixedly attached to the frame of the vehicle and can be connected to the drive train of the vehicle, allowing the engine on the motorcycle body to manipulate the drive train of the vehicle into turning the rear axle of the vehicle, thereby propelling the vehicle.

Abstract: A kit and method are provided for conversion of a vehicle to a high clearance vehicle. The method includes supporting the rear end of the vehicle in a raised position by providing replacement rear wheels of larger diameter. A lifting bracket associated with each front wheel includes a socket for receiving the existing wheel spindle of the respective front wheel therein and a replacement wheel spindle lying parallel and spaced below the socket for supporting the respective front wheel thereon. The use of lifting brackets mounted on the existing wheel spindles of the vehicle permits the existing steering linkage and suspension of the vehicle to function normally so that minimal modification to the vehicle is required for conversion to high clearance.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a utility transport truck having electro-pneumatic controls for coupling and decoupling of devices which are in weight and sensitivity categories that make manual movement without power assist difficult or impossible.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle adapted for receiving a wheeled vehicle and to be driven by the wheeled vehicle. The tracked vehicle has a chassis. Guide and drive wheels are mounted on the chassis at each side and a set of tracks are driven by the driven wheels and guided by the guide wheels. Rear wheels of the wheeled vehicle rest in a pair of drive rollers and rotating stiles are adapted for receiving steered wheels of the wheeled vehicle.

Abstract: A four-wheel drive anti-lock brake control in which the existence of torque transfer between the front and rear wheels of the vehicle is detected based on differences in the duration of ABS control used at each of the independently controlled wheels. Such differences are used to determine a ratio of rear-to-front (or front-to-rear) ABS control. If the ratio indicates the presence of torque transfer, the wheel causing the transfer is identified and its brake pressure released as required to alleviate the detected torque transfer, so long as the release will not cause a change in vehicle deceleration.

Abstract: A novel solution for converting a snowmobile for use as a four-wheeled vehicle for transport or recreation when there is no snow cover on the ground. The present invention consists of an integrated chassis frame to which four wheels are attached. The front wheels are pivotally attached to the frame and interconnected by a steering linkage. The rear wheels are attached to an axle that is rotated by a chain drive linkage that is in turn driven by an arrangement of frictionally connected rubber wheels. The present invention is employed by first driving a snowmobile onto the top of the chassis. The skis at the front of the snowmobile engage into channels formed at the front of the chassis that are pivotally connected to the chassis and integrally connected to the steering linkage for translating the steering action of the snowmobile to the carts front tires.

Abstract: A high clearance converter is used for converting a road vehicle, e.g. a pickup truck, to a high clearance vehicle, for example for agricultural use. The converter has front and rear frame components, each with two upright and ground wheels mounted on each of the legs. The front wheel hubs are mounted on the front frame component and the rear axle is mounted on the rear frame component. The front and rear frame components are coupled for relative rolling movement with respect to one another, allowing the frame to flex when travelling over uneven ground.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating the travel of a motor vehicle, designed for roadway travel, upon railways has the capacity to be towed to the rail site by the motor vehicle. The apparatus has a platform having at least one rotatable axle of roadway tires attached thereto. In the deployed position, the roadway wheels allow the apparatus to be towed similarly to a trailer. When the apparatus is properly positioned over a railroad crossing, the rotatable wheels are drawn back to a retraced position, the apparatus is lowered so that rail wheels, mounted to the platform, engage the rails exactly as other rail vehicles. A removable ramp allows the motor vehicle to mount the platform. The wheels of the motor vehicle engage either one or two sets of rollers disposed upon the platform. After the motor vehicle is properly secured, the motor vehicle can be engaged to drive the rollers, with the power delivered to the rollers being transmitted to the train wheels to supply the necessary locomotion.

Abstract: A high clearance converter is used for converting a road vehicle, e.g. a pickup truck, to a high clearance vehicle, for example for agricultural use. The converter has front and rear frame components, each with two upright and ground wheels mounted on each of the legs. The front wheel hubs are mounted on the front frame component and the rear axle is mounted on the rear frame component. The front and rear frame components are coupled for relative rolling movement with respect to one another, allowing the frame to flex when traveling over uneven ground.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a fully-automatic spraying system employing a spray car. The system includes a spray car body and a truck on which the spray car body is mounted so that the spray car body can be loaded onto and unloaded from the truck. A reel around which a spray-feeding hose is wound is rotatably mounted on the truck. The reel is drivingly connected to an axle of the truck.

Abstract: A process steers vehicle wheels rolling on test stands in order to determine vehicle behavior under actual operating conditions. In order to reproducibly create anticipated riding comfort on the test stand which, in addition to the swaying and shaking motions of the vehicle itself also includes the avoidance of driving noises in the interior of the vehicle and also noises that arise when the trunk and hood make movements relative to the chassis when subjected to great vertical forces, the wheels are steered only as a function of the measurable lateral excursions of one point of a vehicle part from its resting position with respect to a stationary reference point present outside of the vehicle. These excursions occur as a result of lateral motions of the vehicle.

Abstract: An automatic traveling apparatus comprising a self-propelling car having a self-propelling drive is mounted on a carriage car in such a manner as to be dismountable therefrom. The apparatus also includes a driving-force transmission which, when the self-propelling car is mounted on the carriage car, engages with the self-propelling drive of the self-propelling car to drive the carriage car into traveling.

Abstract: A high clearance frame construction for supporting a motor vehicle, and in particular a truck, for use as a tractor-like device for farming and other such related chores. The frame construction includes front and rear tractor-like wheels. The front frame wheels are steered independent of one another through the cooperation of the steering components of the motor vehicle mounted thereon. Likewise, the rear frame wheels are driven by adapting the power take off of the vehicle to independently power each rear wheel. Independent arrangement of the steering and driving components that permits the high clearance feature of the device. The frame construction also features an adjustable frame such that both the overall length and width of the construction may be varied to accommodate different size vehicles. The frame construction is made operational for spraying crops by mounting a spraying tank and boom on the vehicle thereon.

Abstract: An auto-carrying system has a self-propelled vehicle and a mobile carrier capable of carrying the vehicle such that the vehicle can run onto and off the carrier. Sensor actuating poles are arranged along the path of movement of the carrier, while sensors capable of generating signals for controlling the running of the vehicle are carried by the vehicle such that they can engage with the sensor actuating poles during the movement of the carrier so as to control the running operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A driver training apparatus for simulating skid conditions of a vehicle which includes a lifting frame supported by four caster wheels which underlies and is connected with the vehicle suspension system and is propelled by the vehicle. Under normal driving conditions, the caster wheels turn to follow the direction of movement of the vehicle steered by the driver. Under the control of an instructor, the frame of the apparatus can raise the forward or rearward pairs of the caster wheels simultaneously or individually to raise the forward or rearward pairs of wheels of the vehicle relative to the surface of a roadway to simulate a slick road or skidding condition. Under the control of the instructor, the pivoting axis of the caster wheels can be inclined with respect to the vertical to stabilize lateral or forward movement of the vehicle when partially supported by the driver training apparatus.

Abstract: The field of the invention relates to installations for transmitting motion or power to any measuring apparatus or to apparatus requiring a rotary drive. The device of the invention comprises a box frame, and an endless belt rotating over two parallel pulley shafts driving an external transmission system. Said belt and the pulley shafts are of the poly-V type in order to prevent the belt from slipping sideways off of the pulleys, and to prevent the vehicle escaping the frame. The box frame is pivotally mounted on a swivel frame which is free to swivel relative to a fixed frame in order to keep the belt in alignment with the vehicle wheel, either by direct adjustment or by automatic adjustment. The assembly is mounted on shock absorbers, and its height may be adjusted by standing it on an elevator platform. The speed of rotation of the vehicle engine is regulated by a tachometer and a regulator assembly.

Abstract: A carriage conveying apparatus has a loaded carriage to be conveyed, and a driving vehicle for coupling, towing and conveying the carriage from below the carriage. Since the vertical load of the carriage is transmitted to the driving vehicle, controlled to a proper magnitude, the driving vehicle may be reduced in size and weight, and it is also possible to have stable travel if the carriage is empty. By designing all three wheels so as to be driven and steered, sideways and spin-turn motions are realized. By providing recognition marks and detecting means, it is possible to position the driving vehicle accurately if the setting position of the carriage deviates.

Abstract: A power take-off device for employing the power of a prime mover originally provided for propelling a watercraft to drive equipment other than the watercraft. The stern-side end of an impeller shaft rotated by the prime mover for propulsion is extended outward beyond the impeller to be exposed in view. This extended portion provides a coupling engaging removably with an input coupling to a drive gear on aforesaid equipment.

Abstract: A vehicle for use in transporting heavy equipment having a hydraulic system including a hydraulic pump, which vehicle has a hydraulic motor arranged to drive a pair of railroad track wheels. The vehicle also has an arrangement such that the hydraulic motor of the vehicle can be releasably interconnected with the hydraulic system of the heavy equipment to drive the former from the latter. A ramp can be reversibly lowered to an inclined position to facilitate loading and unloading of the heavy equipment onto the vehicle. The railroad track wheels are each electrically insulated from their corresponding axles.

Abstract: A device comprising a rear adapter frame with an idle crawler track and adapted to be mounted, together with a front steering skid, in lieu of the rear and front wheels, respectively, of a motor-scooter so as to enable a quick conversion thereof, when desired, into a vehicle suitable to travel on snowy ground.

Abstract: A carriage adapted for an inboard-type motorboat provided with a power take-off device for a prime mover. The carriage comprises a dolly loading the watercraft, plural wheels inclusive of driving wheels rotatably supported by shafts on the dolly, an input shaft engaging with aforesaid power take-out device, and a power transmission fixed to the dolly to transmit torque of the input shaft to aforesaid driving wheels, and is driven by the torque transmitted from the power take-off device of the watercraft loaded on aforesaid dolly.

Abstract: A driver training apparatus for simulating skid conditions of an automobile, comprises a separate lifting frame carried by four castor wheels which is disposed under the car and is propelled by the car. Under ordinary driving conditions, the castor wheels turn to follow the movements of the car directed by the driver. Under control of an instructor, however, the frame can raise one or more of the car wheels relative to the ground, to simulate a predetermined skid condition. This can be done either by providing members carried by the frame that are vertically movable relative to the frame, or by raising and lowering the castor wheels relative to the frame.

Abstract: A tow basket for use in towing a vehicle. The wheels of the vehicle to be towed are lifted onto the tow basket as the basket approaches and contacts the vehicle wheels. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle wheel is lifted by a conveyor belt onto a first roller and thus carried upwards and into the tow basket, the first roller being operatively connected to the supporting wheels of the tow basket, and the belt being superposed around and upon a plurality of rollers including the first roller. As the vehicle is lifted, a pivoting structure within the tow basket pivots with the shifting weight of the vehicle from an initial position to a final position where the wheel is securely retained. In an alternative embodiment, a novel connection is provided between the tow truck boom and a cross bar having a tow basket slidably mounted on either end; the connection provides for some degree of lateral movement during loading and unloading so that the vehicle may be loaded from or unloaded onto an uneven surface.

Abstract: A boat propelled by a motorcycle. The boat propelled by a motorcycle has a portable ramp to get the motorcycle on and off. The motorcycle produces rotational energy by its driven wheel and transmits it to a pair of rollers covered by rubber or any nonslippery material. The motorcycle is fastened to the boat by two yokes which support the pedals making them like one piece without movement, except if the whole boat gets moved. Fore roller transmits the driving force to a gear which has a sprocket chain mounted and at the other end of this, has another gear which makes an axis spin that is connected to a gear box. Another shaft extends out of the gear box and makes the propeller spin to move the boat. The gear box has forward propeller direction and reverse propeller direction. The aft roller makes two pulleys spin which make two transmission bands spin and make two more pulleys spin which make two ducted fans spin, one on each side of the engine of the motorcycle and cool it off.

Abstract: An endless traction belt and a method for its manufacture are provided. The traction belt has a main body made primarily of elastomeric material and is adapted to be moved in an endless path having a longitudinal axis. The main body comprises a substantially smooth inner surface and a ground engaging outer surface having a plurality of traction increasing portions or teeth. The teeth also act as sprocket engaging means for driving the belt.

Abstract: A tracked vehicle to receive a wheeled vehicle and to be driven by the wheeled vehicle. The tracked vehicle has a chassis. Guide wheels are mounted on the chassis at each side and drive wheels mounted at at least the rear of the chassis, at each side. A track at each side of the vehicle is driven by the driven wheels and guided by the guide wheels. Drive members are attached to each drive wheel to receive a drive transmission. The chassis can receive and retain the wheeled vehicle further drive members are attachable to the driven wheels of the wheeled vehicle to receive the drive transmission so that driving of the driven wheels of the wheeled vehicle drives the tracks of the tracked vehicle.

Abstract: A stair-climbing apparatus for a wheel chair or the like mobile transport means, which apparatus is provided with an undercarriage, a plurality of pulleys mounted in the undercarriage, at least one endless track extending along a way defined by at least two pulleys, a drive mechanism adapted for engagement of at least one of the pulleys and a frame for supporting the wheel chair or a similar mobile transport means, whereby the frame comprises a platform which relatively to the undercarriage is adapted for swiveling movement about a shaft extending at the climbing side of the undercarriage parallel to the pulley axes through drive means adapted for coaction with a steering mechanism which is adapted for keeping the platform horizontal independently of the position of the undercarriage. The drive mechanism is retarded when the platform deviates a set angle from the horizontal.

Abstract: A convertible traction device for permitting a road vehicle to be used in an off-road configuration is described. The device is provided as a trailer having a pair of retractable road wheels with a pair of traction belt assemblies mounted thereon. The traction belt assemblies each include an endless belt, a plurality of support wheels about which the belt is entrained and a supporting framework, each assembly being pivotally attached to the trailer chassis. During towing the road wheels support the trailer on the ground with the traction belt assemblies being held in a retracted position above the trailer platform. For off-road use the traction belt assemblies are pivoted downwardly until the belts engage the ground, the assemblies are locked in position and the road wheels are retracted. The vehicle is driven onto the platform so that the drive wheels thereof engage drive rollers mounted in the trailer chassis, which rollers, as the vehicle's drive wheels rotate, impart driving movement to the traction belt.

Abstract: A vehicle, its frame, with a driver's seat, mounted on two rear wheels and a single steerable front wheel, is made to enable a wheel-mounted motor-driven rotary mower to be removably installed with its rear wheels between those of the vehicle, its front wheels behind the vehicle's front wheel. A drive to the vehicle's front wheel is releasably connectible to the drive shaft of the mower's motor, and means are provided for automatically lifting the mower's front wheels above the ground when the vehicle's front wheel is turned to steer to one side or the other, so as to prevent the mower wheels from being dragged sideways across the ground.