EP3740181A1

EP3740181A1 - Folding wheelchair

Info

Publication number: EP3740181A1
Application number: EP19701060.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Rainer Küschall
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-01-15
Filing date: 2019-01-15
Publication date: 2020-11-25
Also published as: US11246773B2; WO2019138126A1; CA3088473A1; CH714557A1; US20200405551A1

Abstract

A folding wheelchair (1), which can be folded up and unfolded between an operating position and a folded position, has a frame (2) comprising two side portions (21), a seat (3) and a folding mechanism (4). The folding mechanism (4) comprises two coupling connections (43), two pivoting connections (42) and a cross-strut (41) with two bars (411) crossing at a pivot point (412). A first longitudinal end (4111) of each of the two bars (411) of the cross-strut (41) is mounted rotatably on one of the two side portions (21) of the frame (5) via one of the pivoting connections (42). A second longitudinal end (4112) of each of the two bars (411) of the cross-strut (41) is mounted releasably on the other of the two side portions (21) of the frame (5) via one of the coupling connections (43). The two bars (411) of the cross-strut (41) at the pivot point (412) are pivotable relative to each other. A distance between the side portions (21) of the frame (5) can be modified if the second longitudinal ends (4112) of the two bars (411) of the cross-strut (41) are released from the side portions (21) of the frame (5). The bars (411) of the cross-strut (41) are pivoted relative to each other about the pivot point (412). The cross-strut (41) extends from the first longitudinal ends (4111) of the two bars (411) to the second longitudinal ends (4112) of the two bars (411) in a cross-strut direction (8) which, in the operating position, extends substantially along the seat (3). The pivoting connections (42), the coupling connections (43), or the pivoting connections (42) and the coupling connections (43), can be offset towards the two side portions (21) of the frame (2) along the cross-strut direction (8).

Description

DESCRIPTION

title

folding wheelchair

Technical area

The invention relates to a folding wheelchair according to the preamble of independent claim 1.

Such Faltrollstühle with a two side sections comprising a frame, a seat and a folding mechanism, wherein the folding mechanism comprises two coupling joints, two rotary joints and a cross brace with two crossing at a pivot rods, each having a first longitudinal end of the two rods of the cross brace is rotatably mounted via one of the rotary joints on one of the two side portions of the frame, in each case a second longitudinal end of the two rods of the cross brace is detachably mounted on one of the coupling joints on the other of the two side portions of the frame, the two rods of the cross brace are rotatable to each other at the pivot point, and a distance between the side portions of the frame is changeable when the second longitudinal ends of the two rods of the crossbar are disengaged from the side portions of the frame, the rods of the crossbar being rotated about the fulcrum to each other can be easily folded and unfolded. This enables them to be efficiently changed between an operating position in which they can be driven by users and a folding position in which they can be stored away in a space-saving manner and, for example, invited into a car.

State of the art

Wheelchairs must now meet in addition to a proper use as a means of transport often also requirements for a convenient and easy handling, if they are not currently used. Among others are Wheelchairs in collapsible versions known folded folded to save space, for example, in a car or can be worn relatively easy.

Convenient and robust collapsible wheelchairs often include a folding mechanism with a cross brace. The cross brace of such a wheelchair usually has two crossing at a pivot point and rotatable about these rods, which are vertically aligned. Typically, the rods are rotatably mounted at their lower longitudinal ends via a pivotal connection on a side portion of a frame of the wheelchair and at its upper longitudinal end via a coupling connections on the other of the side portions. For folding, a distance between the side portions of the frame is reduced, for which purpose the upper longitudinal ends of the two rods of the cross brace are decoupled from the side portions of the frame. The rods of the cross strut are rotated around the pivot point to each other. Such or similar wheelchair is described for example in US 5,496,050 A.

One difficulty that often occurs with foldable wheelchairs is that they are manufactured or assembled in a fixed size. Thus, for example, the size of the cross strut or the length of their rods can be decisive for how wide the wheelchair is in the unfolded state. Thus, the seat width is determined by the cross strut. Accordingly, series of different sized cross struts are often provided, depending on the seat width to be achieved a suitable cross strut is installed in the wheelchair. Thus, the logistical effort in the provision of folding chairs can be relatively high, which adversely affects their profitability.

Another difficulty that occurs in foldable wheelchairs of the type mentioned, is that the wheelchairs are still relatively bulky even in the folded state. For example, the collapsed crossbars typically prevent a backrest portion of the frame from being folded forward. Also, the basic height or the height of the folded wheelchair of the known type is relatively large. The present invention is therefore based on the object to propose a foldable wheelchair, which is robust and can be folded efficiently to a relatively small size. In addition, it is an object of the invention to achieve an efficient setting or construction of the seat width of the folding wheelchair.

Presentation of the invention

These objects are achieved according to the invention by a folding wheelchair, as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

The essence of the invention consists in the following: A folding wheelchair, which is collapsible and unfoldable between an operating position and a folding position, comprises a two side sections having frame, a seat and a folding mechanism. The folding mechanism has two coupling compounds, two rotary joints and a cross brace with two crossing at a pivot rods. In each case, a first longitudinal end of the two rods of the cross brace is rotatably mounted on one of the rotary joints on one of the two side portions of the frame. In each case a second longitudinal end of the two rods of the crossbar is movably mounted via one of the coupling connections on the other of the two side sections of the frame along the other side portion of the frame. The second longitudinal ends can be detachably mounted on the side portions of the frame. The two rods of the cross strut are rotatable relative to each other at the pivot point. For folding, a distance between the side portions of the frame is changeable by moving the second longitudinal ends of the two bars of the crossbar from the side portions of the frame along the other side portion of the frame. The rods of the cross strut are rotated around the pivot point to each other.

The term "seat" may refer to a seat support in connection with the inventive folding wheelchair, which carries or supports a user during operation of the folding wheelchair. The seat can be upholstered and / or sprung, for example, by means of a cushion.

[001 1] The term "operation" in connection with the operating position and with the use of the folding wheelchair is understood to mean a state in which the folding wheelchair is constructed and used as intended or can be. In particular, the folding wheelchair can be used or moved during operation by a user for locomotion.

The term "rod" is understood in connection with the cross strut a longitudinal element. It may in particular be rail, beam, post or tubular and have any, for example, angular, round or oval cross-section.

The crossbar extends from the first longitudinal ends of the two rods to the second longitudinal ends of the two rods in a cross strut direction which extends in the operative position substantially along the seat. The rotary joints, the coupling joints or the rotary joints and the coupling joints are offset along the cross strut direction to the two side portions of the frame.

The cross strut direction can be quasi horizontal, in particular in the operating position of the folding wheelchair. As the crossbar extends substantially along the seat, it may be in a plane that is more or less parallel to the seat. So the cross strut can also be virtually horizontal. The term "quasi-horizontal" leaves it open whether there is a slight deviation from a precise horizontal alignment. For example, in the operating position, the seat of the folding wheelchair may be slightly lowered at the rear, so that a user of the wheelchair is seated securely in the seat, and the cross brace may be exactly horizontal or slightly lowered in an analogous manner at the rear.

The term "substantially along the seat" may refer to an arrangement in a plane parallel to the seat or to a seat plane, said plane to the seat plane to be a maximum of 30 °, a maximum of 20 °, a maximum of 10 or a maximum of 5 ° can. Since it is possible that in certain embodiments the seat may not lie exactly in one plane, the term "seat plane" may refer to a fictitious plane on which a user of the folding wheelchair is sitting in operation. For example, the seat may be formed by a textile disposed between the side portions of the frame which hangs slightly toward the center. Such a seat nevertheless forms an at least fictitious seat plane on which the user can sit. Typically, however, the seat includes a pad to accommodate the buttocks of a For example, a user who is horizontally aligned and has a more or less flat surface. The orientation of the cross strut along the seat allows the folding wheelchair to be comparatively compact in its folded state.

When changing the distance between the side portions of the frame and the concomitant rotation of the rods of the cross brace to the pivot point to each other, the angle between the rods are changed. In this case, the side portions facing angle between the rods can be increased when reducing the distance between the side sections. At the same time, the other two angles between the bars can be reduced.

The frame may be a total or predominantly a pipe construction. The side sections or side frames can also be made as flat elements with advantage of a relatively lightweight material such as carbon, as a pipe construction or as a combination thereof.

The term "displaceable" may refer to a movement along the cross strut direction in connection with the rotary or coupling connections, wherein they can be blocked to the side sections. In particular, such shifting may relate to flexibly setting the position of the coupling links at a plurality of locations along the crossbar direction. In this case, the offset on the one hand freely selectable to predetermined positions can be done so stepped or on the other hand stepless at any position over a given area or scope.

In particular, can be achieved by such a displacement that a range of motion of the crossbar is set. Thereby, a distance of the side portions of the frame in the operating position can be defined or adjusted. By, for example, causing such offset to reduce a distance between the rotary joint and the coupling link in a side portion, a distance between the side portions and thus a seat width is increased.

This aspect of the invention thus makes it possible to implement different seat widths in folding wheelchairs by means of the same folding mechanism. The For example, it allows a dealer not to stock matching folding wheelchairs for every seat width measurement. But he can locally adjust the seat width by means of the folding mechanism on each individual folding wheelchair to the needs of a user. For this purpose, the folding wheelchair can be designed so that the displacement must be done by a professional, for example, using a specific tool. For example, the folding wheelchair would thus be matched or made up by the dealer for the user. Or it may be executed so that the translation is done by the user himself. As a result, the folding wheelchair can also be used, for example, by several users who require a different seat width. The flexible displacement and concomitant adjustment of the seat width dimension may also allow the folding wheelchair to be reused. It enables a reduction in the cost of providing folding wheelchairs, which can significantly improve the accessibility to such folding wheelchairs.

In summary, the folding wheelchair according to the invention in a robust design enables an efficient folding to a relatively small size and at the same time a flexible adjustment of the seat width or the width of the seat width.

Preferably, the rotary joints of the folding mechanism each comprise a hinge, via which one of the rods of the crossbar is hinged to one of the side portions of the frame. Such a hinge can provide a robust, rotatable connection.

The coupling connections of the folding mechanism are preferably each formed with a fixing structure which can be fastened at different points along the cross-strut direction to the associated one of the two side sections of the frame. The different locations along the cross strut direction allow adjustment of the rotation of the rods in the operating position to each other. As a result, a seat width can be defined or predefined. The different locations can be continuous or flowing over a certain range of the side sections or also rasterized or at selected points. In a preferred embodiment, the fixing structures of the coupling connections of the folding mechanism each have a clamping device which can be fastened by clamping to the associated one of the two side sections of the frame. Such a clamping structure allows for efficient mounting at an arbitrary position or a continuous mounting. Thus, a stepless displacement and adjustment of the seat width measure can be achieved.

In another preferred embodiment, the fixing structures of the coupling connections each have a latching device and the side sections of the frame are equipped with counter-latching structures, which cooperate for fastening with the latching device of the fixing structure of the respective associated coupling connections. Such a configuration may allow a comparatively robust coupling and a stepped offset.

In this case, the latching devices of the fixing structures of the coupling connections can each be equipped with an engagement part and the counter-latching structures of the side sections of the frame each with a toothing. Or the latching devices of the fixing structures of the coupling connections can each be equipped with a pin and the counter-latching structures of the side sections of the frame can each be equipped with a pin receptacle. The pin receptacles can be formed as perforations or blind holes.

Preferably, the folding mechanism comprises a first intermediate structure disposed between the first longitudinal ends of the two bars of the crossbar and the side portions of the frame, and a second intermediate structure disposed between the second longitudinal ends of the two bars of the crossbar and the side portions of the frame is. Such intermediate structures allow a robust design of the folding mechanism, which can ensure that the side sections are gripped in several places. Tilting or bending of the side sections can be prevented.

Preferably, the Faltrollstuhl comprises two drive wheels, which are mounted in the operating position respectively at one of the side portions of the frame. The drive wheels are preferably mounted by means of a manually operable quick release on the side portions of the frame. Preferably, the two side portions of the frame in the operating position the seat. This allows an efficient and robust design of the seat or the folding wheelchair.

Preferably, the folding wheelchair includes two steering wheels and the frame has a front portion on which the steering wheels are mounted. In this case, the wheelchair preferably comprises a footrest, which is mounted on the front portion of the frame. The footrest can be a rigid construction that can be folded up, buckled or removed, for example, during the narrowing of the distance between the side portions of the frame. Such a rigid construction can form a robust support which contributes to the stability of the folding wheelchair in the operating position. Alternatively, the footrest may be formed by a textile or soft or flexible construction that is folded together as the distance between the side portions of the frame decreases. Such a footrest can promote a particularly efficient folding of the folding wheelchair.

The front portion of the frame preferably comprises two foot tubes, each departing from one of the side portions of the frame and to each of which one of the two steering wheels is mounted. For example, the footpipes can exit the side sections virtually horizontally and run downwards over a bend more or less vertically or, in the operating position, along the lower legs of the user.

Preferably, the folding wheelchair comprises a backrest and the frame comprises a rear portion, on which the backrest is mounted. The backrest may be oriented substantially vertically in the operating position. In particular, it can serve to support the back of the user during operation of the folding wheelchair. In this case, the rear portion of the frame is preferably hinged to the side portions of the frame, so that the backrest is folded forward in the folding position. In this way, the backrest can be folded forward on the lower-lying seat, which can significantly reduce the height of the folding wheelchair in the folding position. In particular, allows the combination of arranged along the seat cross strut and folding backrest, that the folding wheelchair in the folding position extremely compact and thus can be handled comparatively easy. Preferably, the side portions of the frame each have a guide structure and the coupling connections of the folding mechanism each comprise a sliding member, which is coupled to the guide structure of one of the side portions and movable along this guide structure. The guide structures may be formed as rails or scenes in the side sections. Such guide structures and slide members enable efficient and accurate movement of the second longitudinal ends of the two rods of the crossbar along the side portions of the frame. In particular, each side section can be equipped with two guide structures and the coupling connections can each be equipped with two slide parts which are each coupled to one of the two guide structures of the associated side section. This can increase the stability of the guided movement.

Preferably, the pivot point of the rods of the cross strut of the folding mechanism is formed by a coupling element, wherein the coupling element comprises two rotatable rotatable parts, of which one rotary member is rigidly connected to one of the two rods of the cross strut of the folding mechanism and the other rotary member rigid connected to the other of the two rods of the cross strut of the folding mechanism. Such a coupling part allows on the one hand a clean stable support of the rods at the fulcrum. On the other hand, it also allows a guided and safe rotation of the rods to each other. Thereby, an angle between the or spreading of the rods can be efficiently changed, whereby a distance of the side portions of the frame and thus the seat width is changed.

In this case, the two rotary parts of the coupling element are preferably lockable to each other in several different rotational positions. By such a lock, the rods or their spread can be flexibly fixed to each other. Thereby, the distance between the side portions of the frame can be set and also fixed. This allows an efficient adjustment of the seat width of the wheelchair. Also, such a lock can be designed to allow the rods are locked at predetermined angles or spread to each other. Thus, the possible distances between the two side sections of the frame and its possible seat widths can be preset. To lock the two rotating parts different mechanisms are possible, which allow a stepped or continuous adjustment of the seat width. For example, the rotary parts can be locked together by engaging in openings bolts or by screwing or jamming. Preferably, the coupling element has a toothing, which locks the two rotary parts in the several different rotational positions to each other. The toothing can be formed on the two rotary parts. It may also be formed on a further component of the coupling element, such as the rotation axis described below. By means of such teeth, the rotating parts can be efficiently locked at predetermined rotational positions to each other. Thereby, the angle or the spreading of the rods to each other and thus the distance between the two side portions of the frame may also be predetermined. Thus, the frame can be efficiently configured to be set in various predetermined seat widths.

In particular, the coupling element preferably has an axis of rotation which is coupled to the two rotary parts, and an operating element, wherein the axis of rotation comprises the toothing and the operating part can engage in different positions in the toothing, so that the rotary parts in the several different rotational positions locked to each other. Such an implementation makes it possible to rotate the turned parts in a guided manner. In addition, such a comfortable and safe adjustment of the seat width can be implemented.

The control panel is preferably sprung mounted to the axis of rotation. In particular, it can be stored sprung so that it is pulled without a tensile or compressive force in the toothing. It can thereby be achieved that the operating part engages or engages in the toothing and the rods are locked to one another without a user being actively involved. This allows a safe adjustment of the seat width of the wheelchair.

Preferably, the distance between the side portions of the frame in a range of about 30 cm to about 55 cm or in a range of about 36 cm to about 45 cm changeable. Such a setting range allows the wheelchair to be adjusted continuously or in predetermined positions in the standard and standard seat widths implemented. In particular, the distance between the side portions of the frame is preferably variable in predefined steps, for example, of about 36 cm, about 38 cm, about 40 cm, about 42 cm and about 45 cm. As a result, the possible seat widths of the wheelchair can be adjusted in particular to the usual values.

Brief description of the drawings

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawings. In particular, in the following the folding wheelchair according to the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings by means of exemplary embodiments. Show it:

1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a folding wheelchair according to the invention;

Fig. 2 is a plan view of a folding mechanism of the folding wheelchair of Fig. 1 in a

Operating position of the first seat width;

Fig. 3 is a plan view of the folding mechanism of the folding wheelchair of Fig. 1 in one

Operating position second seat width;

Fig. 4 is a plan view of the folding mechanism of the folding wheelchair of Fig. 1 in one

folding position;

5 is a front view of the folding mechanism of the folding wheelchair of Fig. 1 in the

Operating position of the first seat width;

6 shows a perspective view of a frame of a second exemplary embodiment of a folding wheelchair according to the invention in an operating position;

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the frame of Fig. 6 in a folded position; and FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of a coupling element of the frame of FIG. 6.

Weq (e) for carrying out the invention

Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience and are not intended to be limiting. The words "right,""left,""bottom," and "top" refer to directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms "in", "out", "below", "above", "left", "right" or the like will be used to describe the arrangement of designated parts to each other, the movement of designated parts to each other and the directions to or away from the geometric center of the invention as well as named parts thereof as shown in the figures. These relative relative terms also include other positions and orientations than those shown in the figures. For example, when a part shown in the figures is turned over, elements or features described as "below" are then "above". The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning. The terms "front" and "rear" are used in the context of the folding wheelchair so that the area of the folding wheelchair, which is designed to receive the feet of a user, lies in front and the area which is designed to receive the back, lies behind , The typical direction of travel is accordingly also forward or forward.

In order to avoid repetition in the figures and the associated description of the various aspects and embodiments, certain features are to be understood as being common to various aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is in the associated

Embodiment is missing. Rather, such omission may serve the purpose of clarity and prevention of repetition. In this context, the following definition applies to the entire further description: If reference signs are included in a figure for the purpose of clarity of drawing, but are not mentioned in the directly related descriptive text, reference is made to the explanation thereof in the preceding description of the figures. If reference signs are also mentioned in the description text directly related to a figure, which are not included in the associated figure, reference is made to the preceding and following figures. Like reference numerals in two or more figures indicate similar or like elements.

Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of an inventive

Faltrollstuhls 1. The folding wheelchair 1 comprises a predominantly designed as a tubular construction frame 2, a seat 3, a folding mechanism 4, two larger drive wheels 5 and two smaller steering wheels 6. The frame 2 is formed symmetrically in two parts with a left and a right tubular construction. He has several corresponding two-part sections and in particular a front Front portion 22, a rear portion 23 and two arranged between the front portion 22 and rear portion 23 middle side portions 21st

The front portion 22 of the frame 2 comprises two parallel each connected via an arc with the associated side portion 21 foot tubes 221 which end in rubber stopper foot 222 down. The foot tubes 221 are connected to each other via a flip-up footrest 7. They run approximately along the lower legs of a user of the folding wheelchair when it sits on it.

The side portions 21 of the frame 2 each have a quasi-horizontal top tube 212 and a parallel thereto extending in a vertical distance down tube 211. The rear portion 23 of the frame 2 comprises on both sides in each case a quasi-vertical tube, wherein a backrest 231 is attached to these tubes so that it lies between the tubes. The backrest 231 can be folded forward.

Between the two side portions 21 of the frame 2, the folding mechanism 4 is arranged. It comprises a first or rear intermediate structure 44, each having a quasi-vertical rear vertical strut 441 on both sides and a second or front intermediate structure 45 having a quasi-vertical front vertical strut 451 on both sides. The rear vertical struts 441 each extend on one of the two sides in a rear region The side portions 21 of the frame 2 between the down tube 211 and the top tube 212. Analogously, the front vertical struts 451 each extend on one of the two sides in a front region of the side portions 21 of the frame 2 between the down tube 211 and the top tube 212.

The rear vertical struts 441 and the front vertical struts 451 are interconnected via a quasi-vertical cross strut 41 of the folding mechanism 4. The crossbar 41 includes two bars 411 crossing at a fulcrum 412. One of the two bars 411 extends from the left rear vertical strut 441 to the right front vertical strut 541 and the other of the two bars 411 extends from the right rear vertical strut 441 to the left front vertical strut 451st

The seat 3 comprises a cushion 31 and a cushion support 32, which is connected to the two upper tubes 212 of the side portion 21 of the frame 2. In particular, the upper tubes 212 carry the post carrier 32, which in turn supports the pad 31. The top of the poster 31 defines a seating plane which is more or less parallel to the crossbar 41 of the folding mechanism 4. In particular, such a cross strut direction 8 runs along the seat 3.

The two drive wheels 5 of the folding wheelchair 1 are mounted on both sides in each case from the outside to a wheel suspension of the side portions 21 of the frame 1. They are equipped with a quick release 51, which allows easy manual assembly and disassembly. The steering wheels 6 are rotatably mounted to respective ones of the down tubes 211 via respective suspensions about a vertical axis.

The frame 2 further comprises two side panels 24, which are each arranged on one side of the seat 3 between the seat 3 and the drive wheel 5. They allow protection of the user seated on the seat 3 while driving. In Fig. 1, the folding wheelchair 1 is shown in an operating position in which it can be driven by the user.

In Fig. 2, the folding mechanism 4 is shown from above in a first seat width. The rods 411 of the cross brace 41 each have a first and rear longitudinal end 4111 and a second or front longitudinal end 4112, respectively. At their rear longitudinal ends 4111, the rods 411 are respectively fixed to one of the rear vertical struts 441 and at their front longitudinal ends 4112 to one of the front vertical struts 451, respectively.

The folding mechanism 4 further comprises two rear pivotal connections 42 and two front coupling connections 43. The pivotal connections 42 are each formed from a socket 421 molded onto the upper end of the rear vertical strut and a joint 422 connected to the associated upper tube 212. The pivotal connections 42 enable the rods 411 of the crossbar 41 to be rotated toward the top tubes 212 about a quasi-vertical axis.

The two coupling connections 43 are each formed from a molded-on at the upper end of the front vertical strut socket 431 and a perforation 432 as a pin receptacle in the top tube 212 cooperating pin 433 of a locking device of a fixing structure. In particular, the pins 433 are in opposite directions Perforated holes 432 inserted in the upper tubes 212 and cooperate with the sockets 431, so that the front vertical struts 451 are held or coupled. In this case, the pins 433 are respectively inserted into a selected perforation 432 of a series of perforations 432.

In Fig. 2, the pins are inserted in approximately central perforations 432 of the series of perforations 432. Thus, the angle of rotation of the rods 41 1 of the cross brace 41 is defined about the pivot point 412 to each other. Thereby, a distance of the left upper tube 212 and the right upper tube 212 and the left lower tube 21 1 and the right lower tube 21 1 to each other and thus the distance between the side portions 21 of the frame 2 is fixed. Thus, a seat width is predetermined, whereby a suitable seat width for the selected seat 3 and a matching backrest 231 can be selected.

As shown in Fig. 3, the pins are inserted into other holes, which are closer to the rotary joints 42, the rotation angle of the rods 41 1 of the cross brace 41 to each other about the pivot point 412 changed so that the lateral angle between the Rods 41 1 reduced and the front or rear angle between the rods 41 1 are increased. Thereby, a distance between the left upper tube 212 and the right upper tube 212 and the left lower tube 21 1 and the right lower tubes 21 1 and thus the distance between the side portions 21 of the frame 2 in comparison to FIG. 2 is increased. Again, a suitable for the selected larger seat width seat 3 and a matching backrest 231 can now be selected.

Fig. 4 shows the folding mechanism 4 of the folding wheelchair 1 folded in a folding position. The sockets 431 of the front vertical struts 451 are decoupled from the side portion or released and pivoted forward. In particular, the two rods 41 1 of the cross brace 41 are rotated relative to each other about the pivot point 412 that the lateral angle between the rods 41 1 maximum and front or rear angle between the rods 41 1 are minimal. As a result, the two sides of the frame 2 are maximally moved towards each other so that a distance between them is minimal.

In Fig. 5, the folding mechanism 4 is shown from the front. It can be seen that the front vertical struts 451 of the front intermediate structure 45 next to the upper Sockets 431 also each have a lower frame 432. In this case, the lower sockets 432 surround the lower tubes 211 of the side portion 21 of the frame 2. The sockets 431, 432 are each quasi C-shaped in cross-section.

Fig. 6 shows a frame 20 with a folding mechanism 40 of a second embodiment of an inventive folding wheelchair. The folding wheelchair further comprises a seat, two larger drive wheels and two smaller steering wheels, all of which are not shown in Fig. 6. The frame 20 is symmetrical with a front front portion 220, a rear portion 230, and two middle side portions 210 disposed between the front portion 220 and the rear portion 230.

The front portion 220 of the frame 20 comprises two parallel each connected via an arc with the associated side portion 210 foot tubes 2210, which are connectable to a footrest down. The side portions 210 of the frame 20 each have a quasi-horizontal top tube 2120 and a parallel thereto extending in a vertical distance down tube 2110. The upper tubes 2120 and the lower tubes 2120 are each equipped with a link 4320 as a guide structure. The rear portion 230 of the frame 20 comprises on both sides in each case a quasi-vertical pipe each ending in a handle 240, wherein a backrest can be fastened to these pipes in such a way that it lies between the pipes. The backrest 231 can be folded forwardly via folding hinges 250 arranged between the rear section 230 and side sections.

Between the two side portions 210 of the frame 20, the folding mechanism 40 is arranged. It comprises a first or rear intermediate structure 440, each having a quasi-vertical rear vertical strut 4410 on both sides and a second or front intermediate structure 450 each having a quasi-vertical front vertical strut 4510 on both sides. The rear vertical struts 4410 each extend on one of the two sides in a rear region Similarly, the front vertical struts 4510 extend on either side in a front portion of the side portions 210 of the frame 20 between the down tube 2110 and the top tube 2120, respectively. The rods 4110 of the crossbar 410 each have a first and rear longitudinal end 41110 and a second and front longitudinal end 41120, respectively. At their rear longitudinal ends 41110, the rods 4110 are respectively fixed to one of the rear vertical struts 4410 and at their front longitudinal ends 41120 to one of the front vertical struts 4510, respectively.

The rear vertical struts 4410 and the front vertical struts 4510 are interconnected via a quasi-vertical cross strut 410 of the folding mechanism 40. The crossbar 410 includes two bars 4110 crossing at a fulcrum 4120. One of the two bars 4110 extends from the left rear vertical strut 4410 to the right front vertical strut 4510 and the other of the two bars 4110 extends from the right rear vertical strut 4410 to the left front vertical strut 4510th

The fulcrum 4120 is formed by a coupling element 90. The coupling member 90 includes an upper rotary member 910 and a lower rotary member 920 rotatably connected thereto. The upper rotary member 910 is rigidly connected to the upper one of the rods 4110 and the lower rotary member 920 is rigidly connected to the lower one of the two rods 4110.

The folding mechanism 40 further comprises two rear pivot connections 420 and two front coupling connections 430. The pivot connections 420 each have a joint 4220 connected to the associated upper and lower tubes 2110, 2120. The pivot connections 420 allow the rods 4110 of the crossbar 410 to be rotated to the upper and lower tubes 2110, 2120 about a quasi-vertical axis.

The two coupling links 430 are each formed of sliding parts formed by the upper and lower ends of the front vertical struts 4510 and the links 4320. In particular, the lower scenes 4320 each have an upwardly directed horizontal sliding surface and the upper links 4320 each have a downwardly oriented horizontal sliding surface. The front vertical struts 4510 are each arranged between the scenes 4320 of the associated side section 210, that the vertical ends of the front vertical struts 4510 and their sliding parts abut the sliding surfaces of the scenes 4320. On In this way, the front vertical struts 4510 can efficiently slide back and forth along the side portions 210 of the frame 20.

In Fig. 1 the folding wheelchair 1 is shown in an operating position in which it can be driven by the user. In this case, by means of adjusting the folding mechanism 90, an angle between the two rods 4110 is set so that a distance between the side portions 210 is adjusted to a desired seat width. The front vertical struts 4510 of the folding mechanism 40 are moved comparatively far back along the frame 20.

Fig. 2 shows the frame in a folded position or folded position. In this case, the upper rotary part 910 and the lower rotary part of the coupling element 90 are rotated relative to each other so that the angles between the rods 4110 are changed so that the front vertical struts 4510 of the folding mechanism 40 are moved forward along the frame 20. In this case, the rods 4110 are also rotated via the joints 4220 to the associated side sections 210.

The rear portion 230 of the frame 20 and its ends in a handle 240 tubes are folded around the folding joints 250 to the front. In this folding position, the frame 20 is extremely compact.

In Fig. 3, the coupling element 90 is shown in detail. It can be seen that the upper rotary part 910 and the lower rotary part 920 are each formed with a groove formed for grasping and partially grasping the bars 4110 of the cross-linkage 410. The coupling element 90 further comprises a rotation axis 930 and a control unit 940. The rotation axis 930 is equipped with a shaft rod 9310 and toothed pulleys 9320 as toothing. In particular, the toothed discs 9320 are mounted approximately centrally on the axle rod, so that the toothing is aligned radially outwards. The keypad 940 includes a crescent-shaped latch 9420 and two springs 9410.

In the assembled state, the axle rod 9310 extends through the upper and lower rotating parts 910, 920 through respectively provided vertical bores 9110, 9210. The operating part 940 is mounted on the upper rotating part 910 by means of two screws. The two screws protrude through two associated horizontal holes 9120 of the Upper rotary part 910. The two springs 9410 are thereby positioned on a side facing away from the latch 9420 side of the upper rotary part 910, that the latch 9420 is pulled in the direction of the toothing of the rotation axis 930. The coupling element 90 thus automatically locks the rods 410.

Although the invention has been shown and described in detail by means of the figures and the associated description, this illustration and this detailed description are to be understood as illustrative and exemplary and not as limiting the invention. In order not to transpose the invention, in some instances, well-known structures and techniques may not be shown and described in detail. It is understood that those skilled in the art can make changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the following claims. In particular, the present invention covers other embodiments with any combinations of features that may differ from the feature combinations explicitly described.

The present disclosure also includes embodiments having any combination of features that are mentioned or shown above or below various embodiments. It also comprises individual features in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. Also, the alternatives of embodiments and individual alternatives described in the figures and the description may be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or from the disclosed subject matter. The disclosure includes embodiments which exclusively comprise the features described in the claims and in the exemplary embodiments as well as those which include additional other features.

Furthermore, the term "comprising" and derivatives thereof does not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article "a" or "a" and derivatives thereof does not exclude a variety. The functions of several features listed in the claims may be fulfilled by a unit or a step. The terms "substantially", "approximately", "approximately", "quasi" and the like in connection with a property or a value in particular also define precisely the property or exactly the value. The terms "about" and "approximately" in the context of a given The numerical value or range may refer to a value or range that is within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range. All reference signs in the claims are not to be understood as limiting the scope of the claims.

Claims

Claim 1: folding wheelchair (1), the between an operating position and a

Folding position is collapsible and foldable, comprising a two side sections (21; 210) comprising frame (2; 20), a seat (3) and a folding mechanism (4; 40), in which

the folding mechanism (4; 40) comprises two coupling connections (43; 430), two pivot connections (42; 420) and a cross brace (41; 410) with two rods (411; 4110) crossing at a pivot point (412; 4120),

in each case a first longitudinal end (4111; 41110) of the two rods (411; 4110) of the cross brace (41; 410) via one of the rotary joints (42; 420) on one of the two side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) is rotatably mounted,

in each case a second longitudinal end (4112; 41120) of the two bars (411; 4110) of the crossbar (41; 410) via one of the

Coupling links (43; 430) is movably mounted on the other of the two side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) along the other side section (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20),

the two rods (411; 4110) of the cross brace (41; 410) are rotatable relative to one another at the pivot point (412; 4120), and

a distance between the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) being variable by the second longitudinal ends (4112; 41120) of the two bars (411; 4110) of the crossbar (41; 410) being separated from the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) are moved along the other side portion (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20), the bars (411; 4110) of the crossbar (41; 410) being pivoted about the pivot point (412; ) are rotated towards each other,

characterized in that

the cross strut (41; 410) extends from the first longitudinal ends (4111; 41110) of the two rods (411; 4110) to the second longitudinal ends (4112; 41120) of the two rods (411; 4110) in a cross strut direction (8). extends, which extends in the operating position substantially along the seat (3), and

the rotary joints, the coupling connections (43; 430) or the rotary joints (42; 420) and the coupling connections (43; 430) along the cross-strut direction (8) to the two side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) are displaceable ,

Claim 2: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 1, wherein the rotary joints (42;

420) of the folding mechanism (4; 40) each comprise a joint (422; 4220) via which one of the rods (411; 4110) of the cross brace (41; 410) on one of the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) is articulated.

Claim 3: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the

Coupling connections (43; 430) of the folding mechanism (4; 40) are each formed with a fixing structure which can be fastened to the associated one of the two side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) at different points along the cross-strut direction (8) ,

Claim 4: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 3, wherein the fixing structures of

Coupling connections (43; 430) of the folding mechanism (4; 40) each have a clamping device which can be fastened by clamping on the associated one of the two side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20).

Claim 5: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 3, wherein the fixing structures of

Coupling connections (43, 430) each have a latching device (433) and the side sections (21, 210) of the frame (2, 20) with

Counter-ratchet structures (432) are provided which cooperate for fastening with the latching device (433) of the fixing structure of the respectively associated one of the coupling connections (43; 430).

Claim 6: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 5, wherein the latching means (433) of the fixing structures of the coupling connections (43; 430) each with an engaging part and the counter-latching structures of the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; a toothing are equipped. Claim 7: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 5, wherein the latching means (433) of the fixing structures of the coupling connections (43; 430) each with a pin (433) and the counter-latching structures (432) of the side sections (21; 2, 20) are each equipped with a pin holder (432).

Claim 8: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the folding mechanism (4; 40) has a first intermediate structure (44; 440) between the first longitudinal ends (4111; 41110) of the two rods (411; And a second intermediate structure (45; 450) arranged between the second longitudinal ends (4112; 41120) of the two rods (411; 4110) of the cross brace (41; 410) and the side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) is arranged.

Claim 9: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the two

Drive wheels (5) which are mounted in the operating position respectively on one of the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20).

Claim 10: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 9, in which the drive wheels (5) are mounted on the side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) by means of a manually operable quick-lock (51).

Claim 11: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the two side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) in the operating position carry the seat (3).

Claim 12: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the two

Steering wheels (6) and wherein the frame (2, 20) has a front portion (22) on which the steering wheels (6) are mounted.

Claim 13: A wheelchair according to claim 12, comprising a foot rest (7) mounted on the front portion (22) of the frame (2; 20).

Claim 14: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the front portion (22) of the frame (2; 20) comprises two foot tubes, each of one of the Side sections (21, 210) of the frame (2, 20) go off and on each of which one of the two steering wheels (6) is mounted.

Claim 15: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, which is a

Backrest (231) and in which the frame (2; 20) has a rear portion (23; 230) on which the backrest (231) is mounted.

Claim 16: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 15, wherein the rear portion (23;

230) of the frame (2; 20) to the side portions (21; 210) of the frame (2) is foldable, so that the backrest (231) is folded in the folded position.

Claim 17: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) each have a guide structure (4320) and the coupling connections (43; 430) of the folding mechanism (4; ) each comprise a slide member coupled to the guide structure (4320) of one of the side sections (21; 210) and movable along said guide structure (4320).

Claim 18: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the pivot point (412; 4120) of the rods (411; 4110) of the cross brace (41; 410) of the folding mechanism (4; 40) is formed by a coupling element (90) wherein the coupling element (90) comprises two rotatable rotatable members (910, 920), one of which rotates (910, 920) rigidly with the one of the two rods (411; 4110) of the crossbar (41; 410) of the folding mechanism (4; 40) and the other rotary member (910,920) is rigidly connected to the other of the two rods (411; 4110) of the crossbar (41; 410) of the folding mechanism (4; 40).

Claim 19: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 18, wherein the two rotary parts (910, 920) of the coupling element (90) are lockable to each other in a plurality of different rotational positions.

Claim 20: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 19, wherein the coupling element (90) has a toothing (9320) which locks the two rotary parts (910, 920) in the several different rotational positions to each other. Claim 21: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 20, wherein the coupling element (90) has an axis of rotation (930) which is coupled to the two rotary parts (910, 920), and a control element (940), wherein the axis of rotation (930 ) comprises the toothing (9320) and the operating part (940) at different positions in the toothing (9320) can engage, so that in rotary parts (910, 920) are locked in the several different rotational positions to each other.

Claim 22: folding wheelchair (1) according to claim 21, wherein the operating part (940) mounted sprung to the rotation axis (930) is mounted.

Claim 23: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the distance between the side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) is variable within a range of about 30 cm to about 55 cm.

Claim 24: folding wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance between the side sections (21; 210) of the frame (2; 20) in predefined steps, in particular of about 36 cm, about 38 cm, about 40 cm, about 42 cm and about 45 cm is changeable.