CA2530552A1 - Convertible lift assembly - Google Patents
Convertible lift assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2530552A1 CA2530552A1 CA002530552A CA2530552A CA2530552A1 CA 2530552 A1 CA2530552 A1 CA 2530552A1 CA 002530552 A CA002530552 A CA 002530552A CA 2530552 A CA2530552 A CA 2530552A CA 2530552 A1 CA2530552 A1 CA 2530552A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panels
- stair
- lift assembly
- frame
- side panels
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66B—ELEVATORS; ESCALATORS OR MOVING WALKWAYS
- B66B9/00—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures
- B66B9/06—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures inclined, e.g. serving blast furnaces
- B66B9/08—Kinds or types of lifts in, or associated with, buildings or other structures inclined, e.g. serving blast furnaces associated with stairways, e.g. for transporting disabled persons
- B66B9/0869—Collapsible stairways, e.g. operable between a lower level and an upper level
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G3/00—Ambulance aspects of vehicles; Vehicles with special provisions for transporting patients or disabled persons, or their personal conveyances, e.g. for facilitating access of, or for loading, wheelchairs
- A61G3/02—Loading or unloading personal conveyances; Facilitating access of patients or disabled persons to, or exit from, vehicles
- A61G3/06—Transfer using ramps, lifts or the like
- A61G3/068—Transfer using ramps, lifts or the like in combination with folding stairs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G3/00—Ambulance aspects of vehicles; Vehicles with special provisions for transporting patients or disabled persons, or their personal conveyances, e.g. for facilitating access of, or for loading, wheelchairs
- A61G3/02—Loading or unloading personal conveyances; Facilitating access of patients or disabled persons to, or exit from, vehicles
- A61G3/06—Transfer using ramps, lifts or the like
- A61G3/063—Transfer using ramps, lifts or the like using lifts separate from the vehicle, e.g. fixed on the pavement
Abstract
A convertible lift assembly is provided in which a vertical lift can be reversibly converted into a set of stairs. The assembly of the present invention uses less space than prior art system, and utilizes a set of movable side panels that can be contracted or extended to provide resting points for a series of stair panels. When in a contracted position, the side panels provide resting points in a stair configuration for the stair panels. When in an extended position, the stair panels are collected on a frame to provide an essentially flat, horizontal platform that can be raised or lowered on a movable frame.
Description
Convertible Lift Asseinbly Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to the field of vertical lifts, and in particular, to lift mechanisms that convert to stairs.
Back~Tround of the Invention Stairways employed in buildings and other structures present difficulties to non-ainbulatory individuals. For example, a non-ambulatory individual confined to a personal vehicle such as a wheelchair cannot easily negotiate common stairwells. To accommodate such individuals, separate elevator lifts, moving chair arrangements, or ramps are often provided. In stair structures extending a vertical distance that is less than a building story, such as those typically used near the entrance to a building, a separate elevator lift is not always practical, particularly in outdoor environments.
In such cases, separate i-amps or moving chair arrangements may be provided which facilitate vertical travel by a personal vehicle.
One drawback to the use of a separate ramp to provide personal vehicle access to elevated surfaces is that suitable ramps consume relatively large amounts of space. As a result, existing buildings must often be substantially altered to accommodate the installation of a ramp. In many circumstances, space constraints within or surrounding the building make installation of a ramp impossible.
Moving chair arrangements offer a solution in such low rise environments.
Moving chair arrangements comprise a chair that slides diagonally up and down the stairway. Such arrangements require that the personal vehicle be separately transported up or down the stairway. Because personal vehicles can be quite heavy, sepai-ate transport of the personal vehicle can be difficult. Moreover, the movable chair itself, when not in use, still occupies stairway space and thus dictates the appearance of the staircase.
Separate vertical wheelchair lifts have also been employed for such low rise environments for use in situations in which there is inadequate room for an access ramp.
Sueh devices, however, while consuming less space than a ramp, nevertheless consume valuable access space and dictate certain architectural parameters. Moreover, separate wheelchair lifts may be impossible to iniplenlent in hallways or other narrow environments.
In an attempt to address some of the concerns of the separate vertical lift, lifts have been developed that cooperate with a staircase to provide a vertical lift that fits within a hallway or narrow environment. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,402 to Del Vecchio et al. shows a lift that is disposed directly in front of a low rise staircase that extends from a lower surface to an upper surface. The lift provides vertical transport of wheelchairs from the lower surface to the level of the upper surface. When the lift rises, the stairs collapse upward to form a bridge platform that allows travel from the lift platform over the area normally occupied by the staircase to the destination upper surface.
Another proposed design of a lift that may be located in a na--row environinent is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,078 to Smith. In the Smith patent, a lift platform is located
Back~Tround of the Invention Stairways employed in buildings and other structures present difficulties to non-ainbulatory individuals. For example, a non-ambulatory individual confined to a personal vehicle such as a wheelchair cannot easily negotiate common stairwells. To accommodate such individuals, separate elevator lifts, moving chair arrangements, or ramps are often provided. In stair structures extending a vertical distance that is less than a building story, such as those typically used near the entrance to a building, a separate elevator lift is not always practical, particularly in outdoor environments.
In such cases, separate i-amps or moving chair arrangements may be provided which facilitate vertical travel by a personal vehicle.
One drawback to the use of a separate ramp to provide personal vehicle access to elevated surfaces is that suitable ramps consume relatively large amounts of space. As a result, existing buildings must often be substantially altered to accommodate the installation of a ramp. In many circumstances, space constraints within or surrounding the building make installation of a ramp impossible.
Moving chair arrangements offer a solution in such low rise environments.
Moving chair arrangements comprise a chair that slides diagonally up and down the stairway. Such arrangements require that the personal vehicle be separately transported up or down the stairway. Because personal vehicles can be quite heavy, sepai-ate transport of the personal vehicle can be difficult. Moreover, the movable chair itself, when not in use, still occupies stairway space and thus dictates the appearance of the staircase.
Separate vertical wheelchair lifts have also been employed for such low rise environments for use in situations in which there is inadequate room for an access ramp.
Sueh devices, however, while consuming less space than a ramp, nevertheless consume valuable access space and dictate certain architectural parameters. Moreover, separate wheelchair lifts may be impossible to iniplenlent in hallways or other narrow environments.
In an attempt to address some of the concerns of the separate vertical lift, lifts have been developed that cooperate with a staircase to provide a vertical lift that fits within a hallway or narrow environment. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,402 to Del Vecchio et al. shows a lift that is disposed directly in front of a low rise staircase that extends from a lower surface to an upper surface. The lift provides vertical transport of wheelchairs from the lower surface to the level of the upper surface. When the lift rises, the stairs collapse upward to form a bridge platform that allows travel from the lift platform over the area normally occupied by the staircase to the destination upper surface.
Another proposed design of a lift that may be located in a na--row environinent is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,078 to Smith. In the Smith patent, a lift platform is located
-2-on the upper surface directly behind the ascending stairs. In other words, the lift platform forms a portion of the upper surface. The lift platform provides transport between the upper surface and the lower surface through vertical movement. When the lift platform lowers to the level of the lower surface, the stairs collapse so that they too are substantially on the level of the lower surface. Wlien the lift platforms rises to the level of the upper surface, the stairs reconfigure into a staircase.
A drawback of the designs found in the Del Vecchio et al. and Smith patents discussed above is that they require space equivalent to the area of the lift platforni either completely in front of or completely behind the staircase. In some cases, such area is not available. Moreover, because the lift platform is located completely outside the footprint of the staircase, the lift platform creates a potentially displeasing architectural discontinuity with the surface at which it normally rests while not in operation. For example, as shown in FIG. I of the Smith patent, the lift structure reduires special wall and f7ooi- structures that create visible discontinuities along the floor and wall. Likewise.
the lift shown in the Del Vecchio et al. patent, undesirable creates a piainly visible discontinuity along the intersection of the platform and lower (ground) surface. Such discontinuities signifieantly affect the appearance of an architectural structure.
These issues were addressed by Storm in US Patent No. 5,937,971, in which a rotating rail system is used to create, in one configuration, a flat platforni, which can be moved up or down, and in a second coni-iguration, an angled stairway. While this design provided a convertible lift mechanism that could be fitted within a snialler space than the Del Vecchio or Smith patents, it's rail system provides poor support for the piatfo~rm, and requires a complex system for movement of tlie rails and/or platform, and is not readily convertible for providing staircases of different heights. As such, each must be custom design for a particular location, or the building must be architecturally modified to nieet the design parameters of a standard staircase. Further, there is no apparent mechanism for adjustment of the stair height to conlply with various local building regulations. or the like.
-~-As such, there continues to exists a need, therefore, for a improved lift structure which is convertible from stairs to a moving platform, in order to provide access between a lower surface and an upper stirface. The design must continue to provide a convertible lift assembly that has reduced impact on the architectural and/or design aspects of a structure, and which nlay be employed in structures with space constraints.
Summary of the Invention Accordingly, it is a principal advantage of the present invention to provide a convertible lift assembly that partially or fully meets the goals and objectives set out hereinabove. These advantages, as well as other objects and goals inherent thereto, are at least partially or fully provided by the convertible lift assembly of the present invention, as set out liereinbelow.
In particular, the present invention fulfills the above need, as well as others, by providing a convertible lift assembly that provides a raisable frame that nloves within a space delined by two moveable side panels. When the side panels are moved towards one another, they provide resting points, in a stair-like shape, that eacll collect one of a series of flat stair panels that act as steps when the raisable frame is lowered. When the raisable frame is raised, it again collects the stair panels fcoili the resting points, so that they provide a horizontally flat platform.
When the side panels are moved away from each other, the raisable frame can be raised and lowered witllout the stair panels meeting with their respective resting points.
As a result, the flat platform remains intact as a flat platform as the raisable frame is raised and lowered.
Using this configuration provides a flat platform that does not need to be implemented as a totally separate structure that both occupies additional space and impinges upon the architectural integrity of a structure. Instead, the convertible lift assembly of the present invention includes a flat, raisable platform that occupies the space that is otherwise occupied by the staircase, and therefore requires little or no additional space.
Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a convertible lift assembly comprising;
a raisable frame which can be moved between a raised and lowered position;
a flat platform resting on said raisable fi=ame wlien said raisable frame is in said raised position, and wherein said flat platform comprises at least two stair panels;
a first side panel and a second side panel, with at least one of said first or second side panels being inoveable between an extended position, to a contracted position, by movement of at least one side panel towards or away from said second side panel;
a first motive device for nlovement of said raisable frame;
a second motive device for movement of at least one side panel;
a support structure for supporting said raisable frame, said side panels and said first and second motive devices; and, a plurality of resting points on said side panels on which said stair panels rest w11en said raisable platform is lowered while said side panels are in said contracted position, wherein said stair panels have a length which is less than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said extended position, and a length which is greater than the distance between coi7-esponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said contracted position.
Preferably both side panels are each movable towards or away from one another.
In operation, the essentially flat stair panels rest on the raisable frame in an essentially horizontally flat platform configuration, when the side panels are in their extended position. In this configuration, the raisable frame can be raised and lowered and the staii- panels will remain flat on the raisable frame since they do not interact with the side panels.
However, when the raisable frame is in its raised position, at least one, and more preferably both, side panels can be moved towards each other in order to be positioned in a contracted position. In this position, the raisable frame is still able to be lowered between the side panels, but the stair panels will be caught by, and come to rest on, the resting points that are provided on the side panels. This prevents the stair panel from being lowered further. As such, the stair panel will beconle separated from the raisable fi=ame. When the raisable frame is completely lowered, one or more stair panels will remain on the side panel resting points in a stair-like configuration.
Tllc stairs can then be used in a norinal fashion wllile in this configuration.
To convert the stair configuration back to a platforni configuration, the raisable frame is moved to a raised position in order to collect all of the stair panels off of their resting points, and again establish an essentially flat horizontal platfornl.
Witli the stair panels off of the side panels, the side panels can then be returned to their extended position. The platform can then be used as previously described.
The raisable platform and moveable side panels are moved by an appropriate tirst or second motive forces. This is typically achieved through the use of at least one electric motor, although other motorized power sources, as motive forces, can be utilized, as will be clear to those skilled in the art.
Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of this invention will now be described by way of example only in association with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure I is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention wherein it is in a raised platform configuration;
Figure 2 is a side view of a side panel used in the embodiment of Fig. 1;
Figure 3 is a. perspective view of the raisable frame together witli cut-away view of the stair panels;
Figure 4A to Figure 4D are a series of front views showing the movement of the side panels and the raisable frame;
Figure 5 is a pei-spective view of the enlbodiment of Fig. 1 in a stair configuration;
Figure 6 is a front view of an alternative arrangement of the stair panels;
and Figures 7A and 7B shown a ramp section fitted to the front of the frame.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and niethod of operation, together with ftn-ther objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodinient of the invention will now be illustrated by way of exanlple only. In the drawings, like reference numerals depict like elements.
It is expressly understood. however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.
Referring to Figure 1, a convertible lift assembly 10 is shown liaving a base 16, two side modules 12 and two end modules 14, which are located on eitlier side of base 16. Between end modules 14 is a stationary platform 28, and between side modules 12 are a series of essentially flat stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 which in this configuration form a flat platform level with, and adjacent to stationary platform 28.
Panels 20. 22. 24 and 26 all rest on a frame 40. whicll frame 40 is capable of movement up or down in response from input fi-om either of controllers 60. On the interior side of side nlodules 12 is a niovable side panel 18 having stair panel resting points 30, 3134 and 36, as shown in Figure 2 wllich is a side view of one side panel 18. The side panel 18 on the opposite side of assembly 10 will be a mirror image of this side panel.
Rcsting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 correspond with, and are positioned to operatively mate with stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 respectively. Resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 are T-shaped and can be bolted to side panel 18 in the appropriate location, using bolt holes 38, to provide the desired stair height and/or location. A
number of bolt holes 38 are provided for each resting point, and these bolt holes 38, for a particular resting point, are vertically aligned so that they, and the respective resting point, will be positioned in the same relative position with respect to the stair panel.
Other sliapes and sizes for the resting points can be used, such as rectangular.
square, triangular, or circular can be used to fit into a corresponding tlat, triangular or circula-- portion at the edge of the stair panels. Also, the resting points can be a collection of pins extending from the side panels. However, the T-shaped configuration is a preferred arrangement since it provides adequate strength properties, together with ease of attaclunent.
Further, while side panels 18 are preferably solid panels, they can be replaced with a frame structure that nioves the resting points closer together or apart as necessary.
In an extreme variation, side panels 18 can be a series of solenoids that merely niove resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 to their contracted or extended position.
However, for strengtli and safety considerations, the sold panel configuration shown in Figure 2 is preferred.
It will be noted that convertible lift assembly 10 is shown with 4 movable stair panels, liowever, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that any number of movable stair panels can be provided in order to produce the desired number of stairs, wlien the assembly is used in the stair configuration. Preferably, the number of stairs provided is between I and 10, and more preferably between 2 and 5.
Also, the present design is adaptable to provide a reduced number of stairs in configurations wherein fewer stairs are required. For example, resting points 30 and 32 inight be removed altogetlier, and resting points 34 and 36 lowered to provide a two stair configuration. During installation of assembly 10, stationary platform 28 would be lowered as necessary to be adjacent to pane126 when it was resting on frame 40 in the raised position.
Frame 40 is shown in Figure 3 comprising 2 side rails 42, with 3 cross members 44, 46 and 48. In this design, frame 40 is narrower than the width of stair panels 20, 22.
SAtg 001 24 and 26 for the correct operation of the device. 'I,he design of frame 40 can vary depending on the intended application, or the like. For example, fraine 40 can be manufaetured wider than shown in the drawinus, and having gaps, channels, spaces or the like, through which the various resting points can pass as the frame is raised oi-lowered.
Franie 40 is connected to a motor (not shown) capable of raising or lowering the fi-ame with the additional weiglit from, or that has been placed on, stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26. The motor can be, for example, placed between end modules 14, and under stationary platforin 28, and can be operatively connected to frame 40 by attachment to.
for example franle cross meinber 48, or the like.
The connection of frame 40 to the motor can be achieved in a number of dii'ferent fashions known to those skilled in the art, but the connection must sufficiently strong than fi=ame 40 can be raised and lowered in an essentially tlat orientation, without excessive bending of frame 40.
The operational details of the various moving components of convertible lift assembly 10 arc shown in Figures 4A to 4D.
In Figure 4A, all of the stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 are resting on fi-anle 40 in a raised position which provides a flat platform adjacent to stationary platform 28 so that a user of the device, can walk out on to, or niove a wheelchair, for example. to a position resting of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26.
Side panels 18 are in an extended position wherein they are positioned within side modules 12. Resting points 30, 32. 34 and 36 can be seen, but it is to be noted that the distance between corresponding resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 is greater than the length of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26.
From this configuration, frame 40 can be lowered, in response to a command from either upper or lower controller 60 to the position shown in Figure 4B
wherein frame 40 is essentially resting on base 16 so that stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 are essentially level with the ground, or level with a small ramp (not shown) to facilitate entry and/or exit from assenlbly 10.
In use, in the configtu ation, the user is able to, for example, roll a wheelchair onto the platform formed by stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26, and the platform can be raised oi- lowered, depending on the desired action. The platform will be raised or lowered as a flat platform, and the user will be able to exit the assembly in the raised or lowered confi'~uration.
Various safety features (not shown) can be provided such as side bar, hand rails, end bars, or the like to prevent accidental movement of the user as the platform is raised or lowered, or to prevent the user from accidentally rolling or falling over the end of the raised platform.
To convert to the stair configuration, raisable frame 40 and all stair panels are moved to a raised position. Side panels 18 are then moved, by a motorized device for example, to a contracted position wherein they protrude inwardly from side nlodules 12.
In the contracted position, the distance between most of side panels 18 is greater than the length of stair panels 20, 22. 24 and 26. However, the distance between corresponding resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 is now less than the length of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26. Further, the width of frame 40 is less than the distance between resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 so that frame 40 is able to move up and down without interference from any resting points 30. 32, 34 and 36.
Once side panels 18 are in the contracted position, frame 40 is lowei-ed. As it moves to the lower position, stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 come to rest on their corresponding resting points, i.e. resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 respcctively. When frame 40 reaclies ground level, all of the stair panels are in position, on their resting points, in a stair configuration. This is best seen in Figure 5. When left in this position, anyone wishing to move fi=om one level to another, can use the convertible lift assembly 10 as a nornlal set of stair.
To convei-t the stair configuration back to a platform configuration, frame 40 is raised using a motorized power source aaid as it is raised, collects stair panels 20, 22. 24 and 26, in that order, in order to re-create the flat platform resting on frame 40. Once fi-anie 40 is in its raised position, side panels 18 are moved to tlleir extended position so that frame 40 can be raised and lowered and stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 will again remain on frame 40. The essentially flat horizontal platform can then be used as previously described.
While not shown in detail, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that other safety features can be incorporated into the design of the present invention.
These include, for example, safety interlocks to prevent side panels 18 from being moved unless fi-ame 40 is in a raised position. Additionally, locking mechanisms such as protruding pins on resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 can be provided that extend into corresponding holes on stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 so as to prevent the stair panels from moving. Electronic sensors can be provided to ensure that the pins are in place when the convertible lift assembly is in the stair configuration.
Other safety features can be incorporated as desired by the opei-ator.
In Figure 6, an alternative arrangenlent for the stair panels is provided and these panels are designated as panels 20A and 22A. These stair panels are essentially flat in their central area, but have a raised side section 50 which rests on the resting points.
However, wlien the stair panels 20A and the like are all positioned on frame 40 in the platform configuration, raised side sections 50 provide a side ledge to prevent accidental movement of a user, or a wheelchair, or the like, off the side of the platform.
Also, other design features, such as face plates 62 can be provided which are attached to the front surface of any or all stairs panels to reduce access to the area ilnder the stairs, or to provide a cleaner appearance to while in the stair configuration. These face plates 62 are positioned to as to side into frame 40 as it is being raised or lowered, and not otherwise interfere with the operation of the convertible lift assembly.
Further frame 40 can be equipped with a movable ramp section 64, shown in Figure 7A which can be moved, by a suitable additional motive force, to a raised position to prevent a user from accidentally moving off of the platform, when the SA~3001 platform is above ground level, and moved to a lowered position shown in Figure 7B
whicll will act as a small ramp, to facilitate entry of a wheelchair, for example. onto the platform when the frame 40 is in a lowered position.
In a fiirther aspect, the present invention also provides an improved method for lifting a person or an object, such as a wlieelchair or other personal vehicle, from a lower surface to an upper surface, usin, the device of the present invention.
As discussed above, it is to be noted that the prior art solutions requii-ed a substantial amount of additional space to provide facilities for non-ambulatory persons.
Not only were the additional space requirements difficult and some times impossible to accommodate at all, even when aceomniodation was possible, the prior art devices often required alteration of the architectural structtu=e of a facility. By contrast, the method and apparatus of the present invention employs the same footprint for both the stairs and the alternative facilities by converting one or more stairs to a lift platfornl.
The resulting structure has the advantage of requiring substantially less space.
It is also to be noted that the motorized power sources and the linkages used to niove the side panels or the raisable frame have not been detailed in the present application. While the source of motorized power sources in the above described embodiment is preferably one or more electric motors, other fornls of motive power may be employed. In particular, for lifting the frame, these include systems such as a hydraulic lift system power source, a pneumatic piston system power source, and the like. Also. combinations of any of these motorized power sources can be utilized, or, through the selection of appropriate linkages and the like, a single motor can act as both the first and second motive power sources. However, it is clear that those of ordinary skill in the art may readily determine the appropriate type and number of motorized power source, and the appropriated linkage configurations required for a particular implementation.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the present invention, a convertible lift assembly which ftilly satisfies the goals, objects, and advantages set forth hereinbefore. Therefore, having described specific etnbodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that alternatives, modifications and variations thereof nlay be suggested to those skilled in the art, and that it is intended that the presetit specification embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Additionally, for clarity and unless otherwise stated, the word "comprise" and variations of the word such as "comprising" and "cotnprises'", wllen used in the description and claims of the present specification, is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.
Moreover, the words "substantially" or "essentially", when used wit11 an ad.jectivc or adverb is intended to enhance the scope of the particular characteristic;
e.g., "substantially planar", or "essentially planar" is intended to mean planar, nearly planar and/or exhibiting characteristics associated witll a planar elenlent.
Also, wliile this discussion has addressed prior art known to the inventor, it is not an admission that all art discussed is citable against the present application.
-li-
A drawback of the designs found in the Del Vecchio et al. and Smith patents discussed above is that they require space equivalent to the area of the lift platforni either completely in front of or completely behind the staircase. In some cases, such area is not available. Moreover, because the lift platform is located completely outside the footprint of the staircase, the lift platform creates a potentially displeasing architectural discontinuity with the surface at which it normally rests while not in operation. For example, as shown in FIG. I of the Smith patent, the lift structure reduires special wall and f7ooi- structures that create visible discontinuities along the floor and wall. Likewise.
the lift shown in the Del Vecchio et al. patent, undesirable creates a piainly visible discontinuity along the intersection of the platform and lower (ground) surface. Such discontinuities signifieantly affect the appearance of an architectural structure.
These issues were addressed by Storm in US Patent No. 5,937,971, in which a rotating rail system is used to create, in one configuration, a flat platforni, which can be moved up or down, and in a second coni-iguration, an angled stairway. While this design provided a convertible lift mechanism that could be fitted within a snialler space than the Del Vecchio or Smith patents, it's rail system provides poor support for the piatfo~rm, and requires a complex system for movement of tlie rails and/or platform, and is not readily convertible for providing staircases of different heights. As such, each must be custom design for a particular location, or the building must be architecturally modified to nieet the design parameters of a standard staircase. Further, there is no apparent mechanism for adjustment of the stair height to conlply with various local building regulations. or the like.
-~-As such, there continues to exists a need, therefore, for a improved lift structure which is convertible from stairs to a moving platform, in order to provide access between a lower surface and an upper stirface. The design must continue to provide a convertible lift assembly that has reduced impact on the architectural and/or design aspects of a structure, and which nlay be employed in structures with space constraints.
Summary of the Invention Accordingly, it is a principal advantage of the present invention to provide a convertible lift assembly that partially or fully meets the goals and objectives set out hereinabove. These advantages, as well as other objects and goals inherent thereto, are at least partially or fully provided by the convertible lift assembly of the present invention, as set out liereinbelow.
In particular, the present invention fulfills the above need, as well as others, by providing a convertible lift assembly that provides a raisable frame that nloves within a space delined by two moveable side panels. When the side panels are moved towards one another, they provide resting points, in a stair-like shape, that eacll collect one of a series of flat stair panels that act as steps when the raisable frame is lowered. When the raisable frame is raised, it again collects the stair panels fcoili the resting points, so that they provide a horizontally flat platform.
When the side panels are moved away from each other, the raisable frame can be raised and lowered witllout the stair panels meeting with their respective resting points.
As a result, the flat platform remains intact as a flat platform as the raisable frame is raised and lowered.
Using this configuration provides a flat platform that does not need to be implemented as a totally separate structure that both occupies additional space and impinges upon the architectural integrity of a structure. Instead, the convertible lift assembly of the present invention includes a flat, raisable platform that occupies the space that is otherwise occupied by the staircase, and therefore requires little or no additional space.
Accordingly, in one embodiment, the present invention provides a convertible lift assembly comprising;
a raisable frame which can be moved between a raised and lowered position;
a flat platform resting on said raisable fi=ame wlien said raisable frame is in said raised position, and wherein said flat platform comprises at least two stair panels;
a first side panel and a second side panel, with at least one of said first or second side panels being inoveable between an extended position, to a contracted position, by movement of at least one side panel towards or away from said second side panel;
a first motive device for nlovement of said raisable frame;
a second motive device for movement of at least one side panel;
a support structure for supporting said raisable frame, said side panels and said first and second motive devices; and, a plurality of resting points on said side panels on which said stair panels rest w11en said raisable platform is lowered while said side panels are in said contracted position, wherein said stair panels have a length which is less than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said extended position, and a length which is greater than the distance between coi7-esponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said contracted position.
Preferably both side panels are each movable towards or away from one another.
In operation, the essentially flat stair panels rest on the raisable frame in an essentially horizontally flat platform configuration, when the side panels are in their extended position. In this configuration, the raisable frame can be raised and lowered and the staii- panels will remain flat on the raisable frame since they do not interact with the side panels.
However, when the raisable frame is in its raised position, at least one, and more preferably both, side panels can be moved towards each other in order to be positioned in a contracted position. In this position, the raisable frame is still able to be lowered between the side panels, but the stair panels will be caught by, and come to rest on, the resting points that are provided on the side panels. This prevents the stair panel from being lowered further. As such, the stair panel will beconle separated from the raisable fi=ame. When the raisable frame is completely lowered, one or more stair panels will remain on the side panel resting points in a stair-like configuration.
Tllc stairs can then be used in a norinal fashion wllile in this configuration.
To convert the stair configuration back to a platforni configuration, the raisable frame is moved to a raised position in order to collect all of the stair panels off of their resting points, and again establish an essentially flat horizontal platfornl.
Witli the stair panels off of the side panels, the side panels can then be returned to their extended position. The platform can then be used as previously described.
The raisable platform and moveable side panels are moved by an appropriate tirst or second motive forces. This is typically achieved through the use of at least one electric motor, although other motorized power sources, as motive forces, can be utilized, as will be clear to those skilled in the art.
Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of this invention will now be described by way of example only in association with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure I is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention wherein it is in a raised platform configuration;
Figure 2 is a side view of a side panel used in the embodiment of Fig. 1;
Figure 3 is a. perspective view of the raisable frame together witli cut-away view of the stair panels;
Figure 4A to Figure 4D are a series of front views showing the movement of the side panels and the raisable frame;
Figure 5 is a pei-spective view of the enlbodiment of Fig. 1 in a stair configuration;
Figure 6 is a front view of an alternative arrangement of the stair panels;
and Figures 7A and 7B shown a ramp section fitted to the front of the frame.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and niethod of operation, together with ftn-ther objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodinient of the invention will now be illustrated by way of exanlple only. In the drawings, like reference numerals depict like elements.
It is expressly understood. however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.
Referring to Figure 1, a convertible lift assembly 10 is shown liaving a base 16, two side modules 12 and two end modules 14, which are located on eitlier side of base 16. Between end modules 14 is a stationary platform 28, and between side modules 12 are a series of essentially flat stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 which in this configuration form a flat platform level with, and adjacent to stationary platform 28.
Panels 20. 22. 24 and 26 all rest on a frame 40. whicll frame 40 is capable of movement up or down in response from input fi-om either of controllers 60. On the interior side of side nlodules 12 is a niovable side panel 18 having stair panel resting points 30, 3134 and 36, as shown in Figure 2 wllich is a side view of one side panel 18. The side panel 18 on the opposite side of assembly 10 will be a mirror image of this side panel.
Rcsting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 correspond with, and are positioned to operatively mate with stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 respectively. Resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 are T-shaped and can be bolted to side panel 18 in the appropriate location, using bolt holes 38, to provide the desired stair height and/or location. A
number of bolt holes 38 are provided for each resting point, and these bolt holes 38, for a particular resting point, are vertically aligned so that they, and the respective resting point, will be positioned in the same relative position with respect to the stair panel.
Other sliapes and sizes for the resting points can be used, such as rectangular.
square, triangular, or circular can be used to fit into a corresponding tlat, triangular or circula-- portion at the edge of the stair panels. Also, the resting points can be a collection of pins extending from the side panels. However, the T-shaped configuration is a preferred arrangement since it provides adequate strength properties, together with ease of attaclunent.
Further, while side panels 18 are preferably solid panels, they can be replaced with a frame structure that nioves the resting points closer together or apart as necessary.
In an extreme variation, side panels 18 can be a series of solenoids that merely niove resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 to their contracted or extended position.
However, for strengtli and safety considerations, the sold panel configuration shown in Figure 2 is preferred.
It will be noted that convertible lift assembly 10 is shown with 4 movable stair panels, liowever, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that any number of movable stair panels can be provided in order to produce the desired number of stairs, wlien the assembly is used in the stair configuration. Preferably, the number of stairs provided is between I and 10, and more preferably between 2 and 5.
Also, the present design is adaptable to provide a reduced number of stairs in configurations wherein fewer stairs are required. For example, resting points 30 and 32 inight be removed altogetlier, and resting points 34 and 36 lowered to provide a two stair configuration. During installation of assembly 10, stationary platform 28 would be lowered as necessary to be adjacent to pane126 when it was resting on frame 40 in the raised position.
Frame 40 is shown in Figure 3 comprising 2 side rails 42, with 3 cross members 44, 46 and 48. In this design, frame 40 is narrower than the width of stair panels 20, 22.
SAtg 001 24 and 26 for the correct operation of the device. 'I,he design of frame 40 can vary depending on the intended application, or the like. For example, fraine 40 can be manufaetured wider than shown in the drawinus, and having gaps, channels, spaces or the like, through which the various resting points can pass as the frame is raised oi-lowered.
Franie 40 is connected to a motor (not shown) capable of raising or lowering the fi-ame with the additional weiglit from, or that has been placed on, stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26. The motor can be, for example, placed between end modules 14, and under stationary platforin 28, and can be operatively connected to frame 40 by attachment to.
for example franle cross meinber 48, or the like.
The connection of frame 40 to the motor can be achieved in a number of dii'ferent fashions known to those skilled in the art, but the connection must sufficiently strong than fi=ame 40 can be raised and lowered in an essentially tlat orientation, without excessive bending of frame 40.
The operational details of the various moving components of convertible lift assembly 10 arc shown in Figures 4A to 4D.
In Figure 4A, all of the stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 are resting on fi-anle 40 in a raised position which provides a flat platform adjacent to stationary platform 28 so that a user of the device, can walk out on to, or niove a wheelchair, for example. to a position resting of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26.
Side panels 18 are in an extended position wherein they are positioned within side modules 12. Resting points 30, 32. 34 and 36 can be seen, but it is to be noted that the distance between corresponding resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 is greater than the length of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26.
From this configuration, frame 40 can be lowered, in response to a command from either upper or lower controller 60 to the position shown in Figure 4B
wherein frame 40 is essentially resting on base 16 so that stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 are essentially level with the ground, or level with a small ramp (not shown) to facilitate entry and/or exit from assenlbly 10.
In use, in the configtu ation, the user is able to, for example, roll a wheelchair onto the platform formed by stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26, and the platform can be raised oi- lowered, depending on the desired action. The platform will be raised or lowered as a flat platform, and the user will be able to exit the assembly in the raised or lowered confi'~uration.
Various safety features (not shown) can be provided such as side bar, hand rails, end bars, or the like to prevent accidental movement of the user as the platform is raised or lowered, or to prevent the user from accidentally rolling or falling over the end of the raised platform.
To convert to the stair configuration, raisable frame 40 and all stair panels are moved to a raised position. Side panels 18 are then moved, by a motorized device for example, to a contracted position wherein they protrude inwardly from side nlodules 12.
In the contracted position, the distance between most of side panels 18 is greater than the length of stair panels 20, 22. 24 and 26. However, the distance between corresponding resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 is now less than the length of stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26. Further, the width of frame 40 is less than the distance between resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 so that frame 40 is able to move up and down without interference from any resting points 30. 32, 34 and 36.
Once side panels 18 are in the contracted position, frame 40 is lowei-ed. As it moves to the lower position, stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 come to rest on their corresponding resting points, i.e. resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 respcctively. When frame 40 reaclies ground level, all of the stair panels are in position, on their resting points, in a stair configuration. This is best seen in Figure 5. When left in this position, anyone wishing to move fi=om one level to another, can use the convertible lift assembly 10 as a nornlal set of stair.
To convei-t the stair configuration back to a platform configuration, frame 40 is raised using a motorized power source aaid as it is raised, collects stair panels 20, 22. 24 and 26, in that order, in order to re-create the flat platform resting on frame 40. Once fi-anie 40 is in its raised position, side panels 18 are moved to tlleir extended position so that frame 40 can be raised and lowered and stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 will again remain on frame 40. The essentially flat horizontal platform can then be used as previously described.
While not shown in detail, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that other safety features can be incorporated into the design of the present invention.
These include, for example, safety interlocks to prevent side panels 18 from being moved unless fi-ame 40 is in a raised position. Additionally, locking mechanisms such as protruding pins on resting points 30, 32, 34 and 36 can be provided that extend into corresponding holes on stair panels 20, 22, 24 and 26 so as to prevent the stair panels from moving. Electronic sensors can be provided to ensure that the pins are in place when the convertible lift assembly is in the stair configuration.
Other safety features can be incorporated as desired by the opei-ator.
In Figure 6, an alternative arrangenlent for the stair panels is provided and these panels are designated as panels 20A and 22A. These stair panels are essentially flat in their central area, but have a raised side section 50 which rests on the resting points.
However, wlien the stair panels 20A and the like are all positioned on frame 40 in the platform configuration, raised side sections 50 provide a side ledge to prevent accidental movement of a user, or a wheelchair, or the like, off the side of the platform.
Also, other design features, such as face plates 62 can be provided which are attached to the front surface of any or all stairs panels to reduce access to the area ilnder the stairs, or to provide a cleaner appearance to while in the stair configuration. These face plates 62 are positioned to as to side into frame 40 as it is being raised or lowered, and not otherwise interfere with the operation of the convertible lift assembly.
Further frame 40 can be equipped with a movable ramp section 64, shown in Figure 7A which can be moved, by a suitable additional motive force, to a raised position to prevent a user from accidentally moving off of the platform, when the SA~3001 platform is above ground level, and moved to a lowered position shown in Figure 7B
whicll will act as a small ramp, to facilitate entry of a wheelchair, for example. onto the platform when the frame 40 is in a lowered position.
In a fiirther aspect, the present invention also provides an improved method for lifting a person or an object, such as a wlieelchair or other personal vehicle, from a lower surface to an upper surface, usin, the device of the present invention.
As discussed above, it is to be noted that the prior art solutions requii-ed a substantial amount of additional space to provide facilities for non-ambulatory persons.
Not only were the additional space requirements difficult and some times impossible to accommodate at all, even when aceomniodation was possible, the prior art devices often required alteration of the architectural structtu=e of a facility. By contrast, the method and apparatus of the present invention employs the same footprint for both the stairs and the alternative facilities by converting one or more stairs to a lift platfornl.
The resulting structure has the advantage of requiring substantially less space.
It is also to be noted that the motorized power sources and the linkages used to niove the side panels or the raisable frame have not been detailed in the present application. While the source of motorized power sources in the above described embodiment is preferably one or more electric motors, other fornls of motive power may be employed. In particular, for lifting the frame, these include systems such as a hydraulic lift system power source, a pneumatic piston system power source, and the like. Also. combinations of any of these motorized power sources can be utilized, or, through the selection of appropriate linkages and the like, a single motor can act as both the first and second motive power sources. However, it is clear that those of ordinary skill in the art may readily determine the appropriate type and number of motorized power source, and the appropriated linkage configurations required for a particular implementation.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the present invention, a convertible lift assembly which ftilly satisfies the goals, objects, and advantages set forth hereinbefore. Therefore, having described specific etnbodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that alternatives, modifications and variations thereof nlay be suggested to those skilled in the art, and that it is intended that the presetit specification embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Additionally, for clarity and unless otherwise stated, the word "comprise" and variations of the word such as "comprising" and "cotnprises'", wllen used in the description and claims of the present specification, is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.
Moreover, the words "substantially" or "essentially", when used wit11 an ad.jectivc or adverb is intended to enhance the scope of the particular characteristic;
e.g., "substantially planar", or "essentially planar" is intended to mean planar, nearly planar and/or exhibiting characteristics associated witll a planar elenlent.
Also, wliile this discussion has addressed prior art known to the inventor, it is not an admission that all art discussed is citable against the present application.
-li-
Claims (15)
1. A convertible lift assembly comprising;
a raisable frame which can be moved between a raised and lowered position;
a flat platform resting on said raisable frame when said raisable frame is in said raised position, wherein said flat platform comprises at least two separate stair panels;
a first side panel and a second side panel, with at least one of said first or second side panels being reversibly moveable between an extended position, to a contracted position, by movement of at least one side panel towards or away from said second side panel;
a first motive device for movement of said raisable frame;
a second motive device for movement of at least one side panel;
a support structure for supporting said raisable frame, said side panels and said first and second motive devices; and, a plurality of resting points on said side panels, on which said stair panels rest when said raisable platform is lowered when said side panels are in said contracted position, and wherein said stair panels have a length which is less than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said extended position, and a length which is greater than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said contracted position.
a raisable frame which can be moved between a raised and lowered position;
a flat platform resting on said raisable frame when said raisable frame is in said raised position, wherein said flat platform comprises at least two separate stair panels;
a first side panel and a second side panel, with at least one of said first or second side panels being reversibly moveable between an extended position, to a contracted position, by movement of at least one side panel towards or away from said second side panel;
a first motive device for movement of said raisable frame;
a second motive device for movement of at least one side panel;
a support structure for supporting said raisable frame, said side panels and said first and second motive devices; and, a plurality of resting points on said side panels, on which said stair panels rest when said raisable platform is lowered when said side panels are in said contracted position, and wherein said stair panels have a length which is less than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said extended position, and a length which is greater than the distance between corresponding resting points on said side panels when said side panels are in said contracted position.
2. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 1 wherein both side panels are each movable towards or away from one another.
3. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein said essentially flat stair panels rest on the raisable frame in an essentially horizontally flat platform configuration, when the side panels are in their extended position.
4. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 3 wherein said raisable frame can be raised and lowered and the stair panels will remain flat on the raisable frame, when said side panels are in their extended position.
5. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4 wherein said stair panels will be caught by, and come to rest on, said resting points, when said raisable frame is lowered from said raised position when said side panels are in their contracted position.
6. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 5 wherein said stair panels form a stair-like configuration when resting on said resting points.
7. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 6 comprising between 1 and stairs.
8. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 6 comprising between 2 and stairs.
9. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 8 wherein said resting points are T-shaped and are bolt to said side panels using one or more bolt holes in order to provide the desired stair height and/or location.
10. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 9 wherein a series of bolt holes is provided which are vertically aligned so that the position of said resting point can be adjusted on said side panel.
11. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said first or second motive devices are each an electric motor, a hydraulic lift system power source, a pneumatic piston system power source, or combinations thereof.
12. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 11 wherein a single motor acts as both said first and second motive devices.
13. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 1 additionally comprising one or more safety features selected from the group of side bars, hand rails, end bars, safety interlocks, locking mechanisms, or electronic sensors.
14. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said stair panels have an essentially flat central section with a raised side section which rests on said resting points.
15. A convertible lift assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 14 additionally comprising a movable ramp section which can be moved to a raised position to prevent a user from accidentally moving off of the platform, when the platform is above ground level, and moved to a lowered position wherein it will act as a ramp, to facilitate entry onto the platform when said frame is in a lowered position.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002530552A CA2530552A1 (en) | 2005-12-16 | 2005-12-16 | Convertible lift assembly |
| PCT/CA2006/002097 WO2007068125A1 (en) | 2005-12-16 | 2006-12-18 | Convertible lift assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002530552A CA2530552A1 (en) | 2005-12-16 | 2005-12-16 | Convertible lift assembly |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2530552A1 true CA2530552A1 (en) | 2007-06-16 |
Family
ID=38162370
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002530552A Abandoned CA2530552A1 (en) | 2005-12-16 | 2005-12-16 | Convertible lift assembly |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2530552A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2007068125A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2013091097A1 (en) * | 2011-12-23 | 2013-06-27 | British Columbia Institute Of Technology | Lifting staircase assembly |
| DE102018123200A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2020-03-26 | Bombardier Transportation Gmbh | Device and method for overcoming a height difference and rail vehicle with the device |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES2376810B1 (en) * | 2009-10-19 | 2012-10-22 | Manuel Cerdá Martínez | ADAPTABLE STAIRCASE FOR THE DISABLED PASS. |
| KR102276299B1 (en) * | 2020-11-05 | 2021-07-12 | 이준식 | Stair combined use lift device |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NO922502D0 (en) * | 1992-06-24 | 1992-06-24 | Vigbjorn Matre | COMBINED STRAP AND PERSONAL HOUSE |
| FR2708258B1 (en) * | 1993-07-28 | 1995-10-27 | Atitud | Elevating step device. |
| FR2723578B1 (en) * | 1994-08-10 | 1998-01-16 | Brunel Michel Jean | DEVICE FOR BRINGING OVER A LEVELING, PARTICULARLY TO A MOTOR DISABLED |
| US5901813A (en) * | 1997-05-12 | 1999-05-11 | Orgal; Daniel | Physiotherapeutic device |
| CA2265639A1 (en) * | 1997-07-14 | 1999-01-21 | Vertical Mobility, Llc | Convertible lift mechanism |
| DE202004011686U1 (en) * | 2004-07-26 | 2004-09-30 | Mettenmeyer, Reinhold | Lift for wheelchairs has a lifting profile mounted in a pit along with step modules which retract into a flat profile flush with the ground level |
-
2005
- 2005-12-16 CA CA002530552A patent/CA2530552A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-12-18 WO PCT/CA2006/002097 patent/WO2007068125A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2013091097A1 (en) * | 2011-12-23 | 2013-06-27 | British Columbia Institute Of Technology | Lifting staircase assembly |
| DE102018123200A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2020-03-26 | Bombardier Transportation Gmbh | Device and method for overcoming a height difference and rail vehicle with the device |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2007068125A1 (en) | 2007-06-21 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US5937971A (en) | Convertible lift mechanism | |
| KR101090782B1 (en) | Stair combined use strait type lift device and the operating method | |
| KR102153477B1 (en) | a lift device for the handicapped people | |
| US6601677B1 (en) | Convertible lift mechanism having a number of retractable stairs with a lift platform positioned thereunder | |
| CN109476454B (en) | Mobile assistance device for overcoming a height difference | |
| US5234078A (en) | Collapsing stair lift | |
| US20070137944A1 (en) | Vertical lift assembly | |
| US7234565B1 (en) | Convertible lift assembly | |
| CA2530552A1 (en) | Convertible lift assembly | |
| NL1030264C2 (en) | Elevator device and method for its formation. | |
| KR101861107B1 (en) | Device for both stair and lift | |
| US20030217891A1 (en) | Aircraft non-ambulatory loading system | |
| US6957716B1 (en) | Emergency stairway escape apparatus for wheelchairs | |
| WO2013091097A1 (en) | Lifting staircase assembly | |
| KR20190108528A (en) | Space Utilization Lift Stairing Unit | |
| KR102276299B1 (en) | Stair combined use lift device | |
| CN113387258B (en) | Electric lifting stair | |
| DE102009056220A1 (en) | Staircase for use in between lower and upper podium, has individual steps with foothold and slope with straight or coiled course, where steps are provided with lifting plates | |
| KR200384963Y1 (en) | Elevator access stair moving together with ladder angle | |
| CN217680740U (en) | Flat-layer entrance structure for old building reconstruction and installation of elevator | |
| CN220080906U (en) | Old building installs elevator stair additional and reforms transform flat bed structure of registering one's residence | |
| CN212478319U (en) | Stair case of two-layer box type house | |
| CN211548907U (en) | Elevator entrance platform structure for old house | |
| JP2007145546A (en) | Lifting system | |
| CN212295749U (en) | Flat-floor-to-home elevator additionally installed in existing residence |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |