US3917312A - Indoor/outdoor wheelchair frame - Google Patents
Indoor/outdoor wheelchair frame Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US3917312A US3917312A US492607A US49260774A US3917312A US 3917312 A US3917312 A US 3917312A US 492607 A US492607 A US 492607A US 49260774 A US49260774 A US 49260774A US 3917312 A US3917312 A US 3917312A
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- frames
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- shaped frames
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- 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
- A61G5/00—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs
-
- 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
- A61G5/00—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs
- A61G5/10—Parts, details or accessories
- A61G5/1078—Parts, details or accessories with shock absorbers or other suspension arrangements between wheels and frame
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S297/00—Chairs and seats
- Y10S297/04—Wheelchair
Definitions
- ABSTRACT C-shaped frames comprise the left and right sides of a wheelchair the main left and right wheels being rotat- [52] US 280/242 297/ 3532343 ably mounted to the base portions of the frames and [51] Int Cl 2 B 62M 1/'14 left and right castor wheels being mounted only to the [58] Fie'ld S 130 250 left and right free ends of the lower arms of the frames DIG 280/242 so that the upper arms are cantilevered from the base above the lower arms. The seat and back structure of the chair is supported by the upper arms.
- INDOOR/OUTDOOR WHEELCHAIRFRAM E This invention relates generally to wheelchairs and more particularly to the basic frame structure of a wheelchair designed to support the seat and back for both indoor and outdoor use. i 7
- Conventional wheelchairs normally include left and right closed frame structures connected by diagonally extending crossed tubes arranged to scissor together if the chair is of the folding type.
- the left and right closed frames include extending back uprights for supporting the chair back and forward upright extending tubes supporting the front the seat, the rear and forward uprights being integrally connected between the horizontal upper and lower arms to form the closed left and right frame structures.
- Left and right large main wheels are rotatably mounted to the rear portion of the closed frames and left and right forward castor wheels are mounted at the lower front portions of these frames.
- the present invention contemplates a novel frame configuration for a wheelchair which provides resilient suspension for the castor wheels of the chair in such a manner that it can be used both indoors and outdoors without the disadvantages presently inherent in known wheelchairs, all without requiring complicated and expensive suspension systems for the wheels.
- the wheelchair includes left and right generally C-shaped frames in spaced parallel,
- Left and right castor wheels in turn are rotatably mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms of the C-shaped frames respectively and these forwardly towards and downwardly away from the upper arms so that a cushioned ride for a person sittingin the seat results when the wheelchair is used outdoors over uneven terrain.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the basic supporting frame structure of the wheelchair showing a seat and back frame in exploded relationsh'ipabove the base frame; 2 1 I I i FIG. 2 is a fragmentary cross section taken in the direction of the arrows 2-2 of FIG. 1 illustrating a detail of one of the frame members; i
- FIG. 3 is a cross section of'a portion of a couplin means on the frame of FIG. 1 for coupling the seat and back frame structure to the base frame;
- FIG. 4 is a cross section of the wheelchair in assembled relationship taken in the direction of the arrows 4-4 of FIG. 1;
- FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the wheelchair looking in the direction of the arrows 5-5 of FIG. 1.
- the right frame 11 includes an upper arm 15 and lower arm 16 connecting together at their rear to form a rear base portion 17.
- left and right main wheels 18 and 19 are mounted respectively to the left and right rear base portions 14 and 17.
- An horizontal transversely extending rear member 20 connects the base portions 14 and 17 together.
- This rear member 20 not only holds the rear portions of the C-shaped frames in a constant horizontal spacing relative to each other, but also serves as a frame support for an electric drive motor and associated batteries in the event the wheelchair is to be of the powered type.
- An horizontal transversely extending forward cross member 25 connects these forward portions 23 and 24 of the lower arms together. This cross member will maintain the horizontal spacing between the forward portions of the lower arms of the C frames constant.
- each of the C-shaped frame members may additionally include a shock absorber connected between the upper and lower arms such as indicated at 26 connecting between the arms 12 and 13 of the C-shaped frame and at 27 connected between the upper and lower arms 15 and 16 of the C-shaped frame 11.
- the C-shaped frames are each formed from an integral tube bent into a C-shape, the rear horizontal member 20 and the forward cross member also comprising tubular structures.
- This seat means includes a chair frame comprised of left and right horizontal tubular members 29 and 30 and forward cross tubular member 31 defining a seat area, the spacing between the horizontal members 29 and 30 being such that they will respectively overlie and be supported by the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frame when the chair frame is assembled thereon.
- the chair frame includes removable arm rests 32 and 33 and a back portion '34.
- the chair frame is designed to be removably coupled to the upper arms of the C-shaped frame and towards this end, there are provided cooperating coupling means on the forward portion of the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frames and the front of the chair frame.
- the cooper ating coupling means on the C-shaped frames includes a transverse open-ended tube 35 mounted on the front portions of the upper. arms 12 and 15.
- This transverse tube 35 incorporates first and second shorter tubes 36 and 37 received in the opposite open ends and biased apart at their inner central portions as by a spring 38.
- the forward end of the chair frame in turn includes first and second cylindrical receiving sockets 39 and 40 facing each other and dimensioned to receive the protruding ends of the shorter tubes 36 abd 37 so that the chair frame is effectively coupled to the C-shaped frames for swinging movement about a front transverse horizontal axis coinciding with the axis of the transverse tube 35.
- the more rearward top surfaces of the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frames include integrally formed cradles 41 and 42 for engagement with the underside of the horizontal tubes 29 and 30 of the chair frames when the same is positioned on top of the C-shaped frames.
- the horizontal tubes 29 and 30 of the chair frame include downwardly extending spring type tabs 43 and 44 which snap over the sides of the upper arms 12 and 15 when the chair is assembled to hold the rear portion of the chair frame to the upper arms of the C-shaped frames.
- the chair frame may readily be removed from the C-shaped frames by simply first lifting the rearportion of the chair frame to swing it about the forward coupling tube 35, this action releasing the resilient tabs 43 and 44.
- the protruding ends of the shorter tubes 36 and 37 are then retracted from the cylindrical sockets 39 and 40 so that the entire chair frame can simply be then lifted away from the C-shaped frames.
- a desirable feature of the foregoing arrangement is the fact that the I hump in the ground as indicated by the dashed lines at i chair frame can readily be swung about the front coupling axis defined by the transverse tube 35 without ac-. tually removing the chair frame in order to expose for servicing equipment under the seat such as the electric motor power drive or batteries if such are used.
- each of the C-shaped frames preferably comprises a bent integral tubular member. It is desirable that the flexing or resilient movement of the castor wheels occur towards the rear base portions of the C-shaped frame and that the forward lower arm portions supporting the castor wheels be relatively rigid to provide adequate support. Thus in the embodiment described, each of the forward end portions of the lower arms of the C-shaped frames, such as 23 and 24, are reinforced.
- this reinforcement takes the form of an inner tube 47 positioned withinthe end portion of the lower arm of the C-shaped frame adjacent to the mounting point of the castor.
- a similar internal reinforcing tube is provided for the other lower arm portion 24 associated with the castor 22 of FIG. 1. Essentially, these reinforcing means render the forward portions of the lower arms supporting the castors more rigid than the remaining portions so that the associated castor is firmly supported.
- FIG. 3 illustrates in greater detail the cooperating coupling means secured to the front portions of the C frames.
- the transverse tube 35 with the first and second shorter tubes 36 and 37 received in the opposite ends thereof.
- a stop means is provided to limit such telescoping movement.
- This stop means takes the form of slots 48 and 49 through which small knobs 50 and 51 respectively connected to the inner ends of the shorter tubes 36 and 37 extend.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 the manner in which the'improved frame arrangement of the present wheelchair provides for a cushioned ride when used out of doorswill be evident.
- corresponding components already described in FIG. 1 are designated by the same numerals.
- the relative positions of the chair frame and the C-shaped frames when the chair frame is assembled will be evident.
- the forward cylindrical receiving socket on the chair frame. is at substantially the same level as the cradle 42 so that the chair frame is held in substantially parallel relationship to the upper arms'of the C-shaped frames.
- the C-shape configuration permits up and down movement of the castor wheels such as the wheel 22 engaging the hump relative to the upper arms of the C shaped frame and seat to thus accommodate the hump and result in a cushioned ride for a patient in the chair.
- This action is indicated by the phantom lines for the castor wheel 22 as indicated at 22"
- both front castor wheels can move up and down in a resilient manner to provide a cushioning effect.
- the mounting by the C- shaped frames is such that the forward castor wheels can move up and down independently of each other to a certain extent notwithstanding that there is provided the cross bar 25.
- this wheel can raise upwardly in a resilient manner independently of the other castor wheel 21 while the seat for the chair remains substantially level.
- the function of the cross member 25, is to maintain substantially constant the horizontal spacing between the castor wheels but the presence of this member will not interfere appreciably with the independent up and down movement resulting from the C-shaped frame configuration.
- Proper damping of the resilient configuration can be controlled by the provision of the shock absorbers 26 and 27 so that there results an overallsmooth and comfortable ride without requiring an unduly complicated suspension system for the wheels.
- the present invention has provided a greatly improved wheelchair suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. While the particular frame structure described together with the cooperating removable seat is best adapted for use with a power operated wheelchair wherein the electric motor and batteries as described would be supported by the rear member 20, the basic principles of the C-shaped configuration could be used for manually operated wheelchairs to thus provide the versatility for a large number of types of wheelchairs for both indoor and outdoor use.
- An indoor/outdoor wheelchair including in combination:
- left and right main wheels rotatably mounted to the left and right rear base portions of the C-shaped frames respectively;
- left and right castor wheels rotatably mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms of the C-shaped frames respectively;
- a seat means including a chair frame defining seat and back areas supported by the upper left and right arms of said frames such that the seat means is effectively cantilevered from the rear base portions of the C-shaped frames;
- coupling means including a transverse open-ended tube mounted on the front portion of the upper arms of said C-shaped frames, first and second shorter tubes disposed in axial alignment within said transverse tube, spring means in the central portion of said transverse tube biasing the first and second shorter tubes apart so that their outer ends protrude from the open ends of said transverse tube, stop means limiting the outward extent of said shorter tubes, and first and second cylindrical receiving sockets at the forward end of said chair frame facing each other and dimensioned to receive the protruding ends of the first and second shorter tubes respectively so that said chair frame is coupled to the C-shaped frames for swinging movement about a transverse horizontal axis whereby said chair frame may be completely decoupled from the C-shape frames by retracting said shorter tubes against the bias of said spring means to release said receiving sockets, and whereby a horizontal spacing between the front castor wheels is substantially maintained by said forward cross member while each castor wheel is substantially independently resiliently supported for upand down movement relative to said seat means as a consequence of the C-shaped configuration
- each of said left and right C-shaped frames comprises an integral tube bent into the C-shape, the lower forward end portion of the tube incorporating a reinforcing means to render it more rigid than the remaining portion so that the associated castor is firmly supported.
- saidseat means includes a chair frame defining seat and back areas; and cooperating coupling means at the forward end of the chair frame seat area and the forward ends of said upper arms of the C-shaped frame for coupling the chair frame to the C-shaped frames.
- each C- shaped frame includes a shock absorber connected between its upper and lower arms.
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Abstract
C-shaped frames comprise the left and right sides of a wheelchair the main left and right wheels being rotatably mounted to the base portions of the frames and left and right castor wheels being mounted only to the left and right free ends of the lower arms of the frames so that the upper arms are cantilevered from the base above the lower arms. The seat and back structure of the chair is supported by the upper arms. As a consequence of the C-shaped configuration of the frames the castor wheels are independently resiliently supported for up and down movement relative to the seat resulting in a cushioned ride for a person sitting in the wheelchair when the chair is used out of doors over uneven terrain.
Description
United States Patent 1191 Rodaway Nov. 4, 1975 INDOOR/OUTDOOR WHEELCHAIR FRAME FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS [75] Inventor: Keith Rwaway Culver City, 529,233 6/1954 Belgium 280/242 wc Calif.
[73] Assignee: Everst & Jennings, Inc., Los Primary Examiflerilfeo Friaglia Angeles Calif Asszstant ExammerR. Schrecengost Attorney, Agent, or FirmRalph B. Pastonza [22] Filed: July 29, 1974 21 Appl. No.: 492,607 ABSTRACT C-shaped frames comprise the left and right sides of a wheelchair the main left and right wheels being rotat- [52] US 280/242 297/ 3532343 ably mounted to the base portions of the frames and [51] Int Cl 2 B 62M 1/'14 left and right castor wheels being mounted only to the [58] Fie'ld S 130 250 left and right free ends of the lower arms of the frames DIG 280/242 so that the upper arms are cantilevered from the base above the lower arms. The seat and back structure of the chair is supported by the upper arms. As a conse- [56] References cued quence of the C-shaped configuration of the frames UNITED STATES PATENTS the castor wheels are independently resiliently sup- 802,249 10/1905 White 297/302 X ported for up and down movement relative to the seat 2,347,754 5/1944 Shay 1 297/DIG. 4 resulting in a cushioned for a person itting in the gf i wheelchair when the chair is used out of doors over 1 eou 2,482,827 9/1949 Black 297/DIG. 4 uneven terram' 3,223,431 12/1965 Gottfried 297 130 UX 4 Claims, 5 Drawing Figures .Patent Nov.4, 1975 Sheet10f2 3,917,312
[f {IN FIG .c. FIG. 3.
US. Patent Nov. 4, 1975 Sheet 2 of2 3,917,312
INDOOR/OUTDOOR WHEELCHAIRFRAM E This invention relates generally to wheelchairs and more particularly to the basic frame structure of a wheelchair designed to support the seat and back for both indoor and outdoor use. i 7
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Conventional wheelchairs normally include left and right closed frame structures connected by diagonally extending crossed tubes arranged to scissor together if the chair is of the folding type. Generally, the left and right closed frames include extending back uprights for supporting the chair back and forward upright extending tubes supporting the front the seat, the rear and forward uprights being integrally connected between the horizontal upper and lower arms to form the closed left and right frame structures. Left and right large main wheels are rotatably mounted to the rear portion of the closed frames and left and right forward castor wheels are mounted at the lower front portions of these frames. I v
The foregoing construction works satisfactorily. for wheelchairs when used indoors wherein floor areas are level and the chair itself is propelled at a relatively low speed. On the other hand, these types of chairs do not work satisfactorily outdoors wherein the terrain is often uneven. While some relative motion between the left and right closed frames themselves is permitted through coupling of the crossed diagonal tubes, this flexibility is limited and in the event the wheel-chair is used out of doors and over terrain wherein small gullies or mounds are traversed, one of the four wheels can actually lose contact with the ground. Moreover, riding the wheelchair over uneven terrain of this type is at best uncomfortable and at worst can be dangerous oftentimes resulting in toppling over of the wheelchair.
Known types of wheel suspension systemssuch as used in outdoor vehicles could, of course, be incorporated in a wheelchair. However, such suspension systems become expensive and complicated particularly with respect to proper support of the castor wheels themselves.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION With the foregoing in mind, the present invention contemplates a novel frame configuration for a wheelchair which provides resilient suspension for the castor wheels of the chair in such a manner that it can be used both indoors and outdoors without the disadvantages presently inherent in known wheelchairs, all without requiring complicated and expensive suspension systems for the wheels.
More particularly, the wheelchair includes left and right generally C-shaped frames in spaced parallel,
side-by-side relationship, the free ends of the upper and lower arms of the C-shaped frames extending forwardly. Left and right main wheels are rotatably mounted to the left and right rear base portions of the C-shaped frames respectively and these rear base portions are held in horizontally spaced relationship by an horizontal transversely extending rear member connecting the base portions together. I
Left and right castor wheels in turn are rotatably mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms of the C-shaped frames respectively and these forwardly towards and downwardly away from the upper arms so that a cushioned ride for a person sittingin the seat results when the wheelchair is used outdoors over uneven terrain.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A better understanding of this invention will be had by referring to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the basic supporting frame structure of the wheelchair showing a seat and back frame in exploded relationsh'ipabove the base frame; 2 1 I I i FIG. 2 is a fragmentary cross section taken in the direction of the arrows 2-2 of FIG. 1 illustrating a detail of one of the frame members; i
FIG. 3 is a cross section of'a portion of a couplin means on the frame of FIG. 1 for coupling the seat and back frame structure to the base frame;
FIG. 4 is a cross section of the wheelchair in assembled relationship taken in the direction of the arrows 4-4 of FIG. 1; and,
FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the wheelchair looking in the direction of the arrows 5-5 of FIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT and a lower arm 13 having their rear ends connecting together to form a rear base 14. Similarly, the right frame 11 includes an upper arm 15 and lower arm 16 connecting together at their rear to form a rear base portion 17.
As shown, left and right main wheels 18 and 19 are mounted respectively to the left and right rear base portions 14 and 17. An horizontal transversely extending rear member 20 connects the base portions 14 and 17 together. This rear member 20 not only holds the rear portions of the C-shaped frames in a constant horizontal spacing relative to each other, but also serves as a frame support for an electric drive motor and associated batteries in the event the wheelchair is to be of the powered type. I
Left and right front castor wheels 21 and 22, in turn, are mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms 13 and 16 as at 2 3 and 24. An horizontal transversely extending forward cross member 25 connects these forward portions 23 and 24 of the lower arms together. This cross member will maintain the horizontal spacing between the forward portions of the lower arms of the C frames constant.
From the foregoing description thus far, it will be evident that the left and right upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frames are essentially cantilevered from the base portions 14 and 17. Each of the C-shaped frame members may additionally include a shock absorber connected between the upper and lower arms such as indicated at 26 connecting between the arms 12 and 13 of the C-shaped frame and at 27 connected between the upper and lower arms 15 and 16 of the C-shaped frame 11. In the preferred construction, and as indicated in the drawings, the C-shaped frames are each formed from an integral tube bent into a C-shape, the rear horizontal member 20 and the forward cross member also comprising tubular structures.
Shown in exploded view above the C-shaped frames is a seat means designated generally by the arrow 28. This seat means includes a chair frame comprised of left and right horizontal tubular members 29 and 30 and forward cross tubular member 31 defining a seat area, the spacing between the horizontal members 29 and 30 being such that they will respectively overlie and be supported by the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frame when the chair frame is assembled thereon.
As shown, the chair frame includes removable arm rests 32 and 33 and a back portion '34. Preferably, the chair frame is designed to be removably coupled to the upper arms of the C-shaped frame and towards this end, there are provided cooperating coupling means on the forward portion of the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frames and the front of the chair frame.
In the particular embodiment illustrated, the cooper ating coupling means on the C-shaped frames includes a transverse open-ended tube 35 mounted on the front portions of the upper. arms 12 and 15. This transverse tube 35 incorporates first and second shorter tubes 36 and 37 received in the opposite open ends and biased apart at their inner central portions as by a spring 38. The forward end of the chair frame in turn includes first and second cylindrical receiving sockets 39 and 40 facing each other and dimensioned to receive the protruding ends of the shorter tubes 36 abd 37 so that the chair frame is effectively coupled to the C-shaped frames for swinging movement about a front transverse horizontal axis coinciding with the axis of the transverse tube 35.
It will be noted that the more rearward top surfaces of the upper arms 12 and 15 of the C-shaped frames include integrally formed cradles 41 and 42 for engagement with the underside of the horizontal tubes 29 and 30 of the chair frames when the same is positioned on top of the C-shaped frames. Preferably, the horizontal tubes 29 and 30 of the chair frame include downwardly extending spring type tabs 43 and 44 which snap over the sides of the upper arms 12 and 15 when the chair is assembled to hold the rear portion of the chair frame to the upper arms of the C-shaped frames.
With the foregoing arrangement, it will be evident that the chair frame may readily be removed from the C-shaped frames by simply first lifting the rearportion of the chair frame to swing it about the forward coupling tube 35, this action releasing the resilient tabs 43 and 44. The protruding ends of the shorter tubes 36 and 37 are then retracted from the cylindrical sockets 39 and 40 so that the entire chair frame can simply be then lifted away from the C-shaped frames. A desirable feature of the foregoing arrangement is the fact that the I hump in the ground as indicated by the dashed lines at i chair frame can readily be swung about the front coupling axis defined by the transverse tube 35 without ac-. tually removing the chair frame in order to expose for servicing equipment under the seat such as the electric motor power drive or batteries if such are used.
As described heretofore, each of the C-shaped frames preferably comprises a bent integral tubular member. It is desirable that the flexing or resilient movement of the castor wheels occur towards the rear base portions of the C-shaped frame and that the forward lower arm portions supporting the castor wheels be relatively rigid to provide adequate support. Thus in the embodiment described, each of the forward end portions of the lower arms of the C-shaped frames, such as 23 and 24, are reinforced.
Referring specifically to FIG. 2, this reinforcement takes the form of an inner tube 47 positioned withinthe end portion of the lower arm of the C-shaped frame adjacent to the mounting point of the castor. A similar internal reinforcing tube is provided for the other lower arm portion 24 associated with the castor 22 of FIG. 1. Essentially, these reinforcing means render the forward portions of the lower arms supporting the castors more rigid than the remaining portions so that the associated castor is firmly supported.
FIG. 3 illustrates in greater detail the cooperating coupling means secured to the front portions of the C frames. Thus, there is shown in FIG. 3 the transverse tube 35 with the first and second shorter tubes 36 and 37 received in the opposite ends thereof. In order to prevent the central spring 38 from biasing the shorter tubes 36 and 37 completely out the ends of the transverse tube 35, a stop means is provided to limit such telescoping movement. This stop means takes the form of slots 48 and 49 through which small knobs 50 and 51 respectively connected to the inner ends of the shorter tubes 36 and 37 extend. With this arrangement, the outward telescoping movement of the tubes 36 and 37 is limited by engagement of the respective knobs 50 and 51 with the right and left ends of the slots 48 and 49 respectively. On the other hand, the slots are of sufficient longitudinal extent that by manually moving the,
Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the manner in which the'improved frame arrangement of the present wheelchair provides for a cushioned ride when used out of doorswill be evident. In FIGS. 4 and 5, corresponding components already described in FIG. 1 are designated by the same numerals.
Referring first to FIG. 4, the relative positions of the chair frame and the C-shaped frames when the chair frame is assembled will be evident. Thus, the horizontal tube 30 of the chair framerests in the cradle 42 on the upper arm 15 of the C-shaped frame 11, the resilient tab 44 engaging about the upper arm 15 as shown. The forward cylindrical receiving socket on the chair frame. is at substantially the same level as the cradle 42 so that the chair frame is held in substantially parallel relationship to the upper arms'of the C-shaped frames.
When the wheelchair is used out of doors and is moving along uneven terrain such as might result from a 52, the C-shape configuration permits up and down movement of the castor wheels such as the wheel 22 engaging the hump relative to the upper arms of the C shaped frame and seat to thus accommodate the hump and result in a cushioned ride for a patient in the chair. This action is indicated by the phantom linies for the castor wheel 22 as indicated at 22" Thus, in travelling over a small curb or sill, both front castor wheels can move up and down in a resilient manner to provide a cushioning effect.
In addition to the foregoing, the mounting by the C- shaped frames is such that the forward castor wheels can move up and down independently of each other to a certain extent notwithstanding that there is provided the cross bar 25. Thus referring specifically to FIG. 5, should there be a hump of uneven terrain such as indicated at 53 which is engaged by only one of the castor wheels such as the castor wheel 22, this wheel can raise upwardly in a resilient manner independently of the other castor wheel 21 while the seat for the chair remains substantially level. The function of the cross member 25, of course, is to maintain substantially constant the horizontal spacing between the castor wheels but the presence of this member will not interfere appreciably with the independent up and down movement resulting from the C-shaped frame configuration. Proper damping of the resilient configuration can be controlled by the provision of the shock absorbers 26 and 27 so that there results an overallsmooth and comfortable ride without requiring an unduly complicated suspension system for the wheels.
From the foregoing description, it will thus be evident that the present invention has provided a greatly improved wheelchair suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. While the particular frame structure described together with the cooperating removable seat is best adapted for use with a power operated wheelchair wherein the electric motor and batteries as described would be supported by the rear member 20, the basic principles of the C-shaped configuration could be used for manually operated wheelchairs to thus provide the versatility for a large number of types of wheelchairs for both indoor and outdoor use.
What is claimed is:
1. An indoor/outdoor wheelchair including in combination:
a. left and right generally C-shaped frames in spaced parallel, side-by-side relationship the free ends of the upper and lower arms of the C-shaped frames extending forwardly;
b. left and right main wheels rotatably mounted to the left and right rear base portions of the C-shaped frames respectively;
c. an horizontally transversely extending rear member connecting said base portions together;
d. left and right castor wheels rotatably mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms of the C-shaped frames respectively;
e. an horizontally transversely extending forward cross member forward portions of said lower arms together;
f. a seat means including a chair frame defining seat and back areas supported by the upper left and right arms of said frames such that the seat means is effectively cantilevered from the rear base portions of the C-shaped frames; and
g. coupling means including a transverse open-ended tube mounted on the front portion of the upper arms of said C-shaped frames, first and second shorter tubes disposed in axial alignment within said transverse tube, spring means in the central portion of said transverse tube biasing the first and second shorter tubes apart so that their outer ends protrude from the open ends of said transverse tube, stop means limiting the outward extent of said shorter tubes, and first and second cylindrical receiving sockets at the forward end of said chair frame facing each other and dimensioned to receive the protruding ends of the first and second shorter tubes respectively so that said chair frame is coupled to the C-shaped frames for swinging movement about a transverse horizontal axis whereby said chair frame may be completely decoupled from the C-shape frames by retracting said shorter tubes against the bias of said spring means to release said receiving sockets, and whereby a horizontal spacing between the front castor wheels is substantially maintained by said forward cross member while each castor wheel is substantially independently resiliently supported for upand down movement relative to said seat means as a consequence of the C-shaped configuration of the frames providing the ability of the forward portions of the lower arms to flex upwardly towards and downwardly away from the upper arms so that a cushioned ride for a person sitting in said seat means results when the wheelchair is used outdoors over uneven terrain.
- 2. The subject matter of claim 1, in which each of said left and right C-shaped frames comprises an integral tube bent into the C-shape, the lower forward end portion of the tube incorporating a reinforcing means to render it more rigid than the remaining portion so that the associated castor is firmly supported.
3. The subject matter of claim 1, in which saidseat means includes a chair frame defining seat and back areas; and cooperating coupling means at the forward end of the chair frame seat area and the forward ends of said upper arms of the C-shaped frame for coupling the chair frame to the C-shaped frames.
4. The subject matter of claim 1, in which each C- shaped frame includes a shock absorber connected between its upper and lower arms.
Claims (4)
1. An indoor/outdoor wheelchair including in combination: a. left and right generally C-shaped frames in spaced parallel, side-by-side relationship the free ends of the upper and lower arms of the C-shaped frames extending forwardly; b. left and right main wheels rotatably mounted to the left and right rear base portions of the C-shaped frames respectively; c. an horizontally transversely extending rear member connecting said base portions together; d. left and right castor wheels rotatably mounted at the forward ends of the left and right lower arms of the C-shaped frames respectively; e. an horizontally transversely extending forward cross member forward portions of said lower arms together; f. a seat means including a chair frame defining seat and back areas supported by the upper left and right arms of said frames such that the seat means is effectively cantilevered from the rear base portions of the C-shaped frames; and g. coupling means including a transverse open-ended tube mounted on the front portion of the upper arms of said C-shaped frames, first and second shorter tubes disposed in axial alignment within said transverse tube, spring means in the central portion of said transverse tube biasing the first and second shorter tubes apart so that their outer ends protrude from the open ends of said transverse tube, stop means limiting the outward extent of said shorter tubes, and first and second cylindrical receiving sockets at the forward end of said chair frame facing each other and dimensioned to receive the protruding ends of the first and second shorter tubes respectively so that said chair frame is coupled to the Cshaped frames for swinging movement about a transverse horizontal axis whereby said chair frame may be completely decoupled from the C-shape frames by retracting said shorter tubes against the bias of said spring means to release said receiving sockets, and whereby a horizontal spacing between the front castor wheels is substantially maintained by said forward cross member while each castor wheel is substantially independently resiliently supported for up and down movement relative to said seat means as a consequence of the C-shaped configuration of the frames providing the ability of the forward portions of the lower arms to flex upwardly towards and downwardly away from the upper arms so that a cushioned ride for a person sitting in said seat means results when the wheelchair is used outdoors over uneven terrain.
2. The subject matter of claim 1, in which each of said left and right C-shaped frames comprises an integral tube bent into the C-shape, the lower forward end portion of the tube incorporating a reinforcing means to render it more rigid than the remaining portion so that the associated castor is firmly supported.
3. The subject matter of claim 1, in which said seat means includes a chair frame defining seat and back areas; and cooperating coupling means at the forward end of the chair frame seaT area and the forward ends of said upper arms of the C-shaped frame for coupling the chair frame to the C-shaped frames.
4. The subject matter of claim 1, in which each C-shaped frame includes a shock absorber connected between its upper and lower arms.
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US492607A US3917312A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1974-07-29 | Indoor/outdoor wheelchair frame |
GB35710/75A GB1485575A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-08-29 | Indoor/outdoor wheelchair |
NL7510635A NL7510635A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-09 | Wheel chair chassis for indoors and outdoors use - has C-shaped side sections supporting seat with springs between arms |
FR7527646A FR2323369A1 (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-09 | Wheel chair chassis for indoors and outdoors use - has C-shaped side sections supporting seat with springs between arms |
BE160187A BE833602A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-19 | WHEELCHAIR CASE FOR INDOOR OR EXTERIOR HOUSING |
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US492607A US3917312A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1974-07-29 | Indoor/outdoor wheelchair frame |
GB35710/75A GB1485575A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-08-29 | Indoor/outdoor wheelchair |
NL7510635A NL7510635A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-09 | Wheel chair chassis for indoors and outdoors use - has C-shaped side sections supporting seat with springs between arms |
FR7527646A FR2323369A1 (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-09 | Wheel chair chassis for indoors and outdoors use - has C-shaped side sections supporting seat with springs between arms |
BE160187A BE833602A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1975-09-19 | WHEELCHAIR CASE FOR INDOOR OR EXTERIOR HOUSING |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US3917312A true US3917312A (en) | 1975-11-04 |
Family
ID=40344544
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US492607A Expired - Lifetime US3917312A (en) | 1974-07-29 | 1974-07-29 | Indoor/outdoor wheelchair frame |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US3917312A (en) |
BE (1) | BE833602A (en) |
FR (1) | FR2323369A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB1485575A (en) |
NL (1) | NL7510635A (en) |
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US4066273A (en) * | 1976-06-09 | 1978-01-03 | Lohr Raymond J | Toy car |
US4098521A (en) * | 1976-08-09 | 1978-07-04 | Reme Enterprises, Inc. | Wheelchair adaptable for passage in narrow spaces |
US4155126A (en) * | 1978-02-13 | 1979-05-22 | CLASSEN Henry | Universal hospital chair |
US4190263A (en) * | 1978-05-22 | 1980-02-26 | Albuquerque Patents, Ltd. | Wheelchair with shock absorber |
US4234226A (en) * | 1978-10-02 | 1980-11-18 | Scott Paper Company | Adjustable and collapsible seating piece |
US4339013A (en) * | 1980-05-12 | 1982-07-13 | Weigt Gerald I | Mobile and adaptable wheel chair |
US4385769A (en) * | 1980-12-16 | 1983-05-31 | Molino Joseph L | Invalid support chair structure |
US4489955A (en) * | 1982-12-08 | 1984-12-25 | N. A. Taylor Company, Inc. | Wheelchair |
US4544200A (en) * | 1983-06-02 | 1985-10-01 | Philip Dunn | Wheelchair with rocking seat and reclining back feature |
US4598921A (en) * | 1983-11-14 | 1986-07-08 | Lieuse Technology Limited | Wheelchair |
US4632409A (en) * | 1984-03-26 | 1986-12-30 | Hall Patricia A | Combination automobile infant seat and baby stroller assembly |
US4763951A (en) * | 1983-08-19 | 1988-08-16 | Michael W. Silverman | Threaded locking coupler |
EP0297831A2 (en) * | 1987-06-27 | 1989-01-04 | John Charles Payne | Wheel chair |
US4813693A (en) * | 1986-09-30 | 1989-03-21 | Invacare Corporation | Adjustable child's wheelchair |
US4874203A (en) * | 1986-08-01 | 1989-10-17 | Henley Alvera S | Vehicle passenger seat for handicapped persons |
US4989890A (en) * | 1986-09-30 | 1991-02-05 | Invacare Corporation | Length and width adjustable wheelchair |
US5121806A (en) * | 1991-03-05 | 1992-06-16 | Johnson Richard N | Power wheelchair with torsional stability system |
US5338096A (en) * | 1993-10-19 | 1994-08-16 | Taiwan Charwell Enterprise, Co., Ltd. | Locking device for a front seat of a double stroller |
US5361494A (en) * | 1991-11-08 | 1994-11-08 | Medical Composite Technology, Inc. | Method of making a pair of wheelchair side frame assemblies |
US5556120A (en) * | 1993-01-11 | 1996-09-17 | Davis; Daniel W. | Amulatory wheelstand-wheelchair interface |
US5560627A (en) * | 1993-11-16 | 1996-10-01 | Guardian Products, Inc. | Low cost wheelchair |
US5575348A (en) * | 1994-04-15 | 1996-11-19 | Invacare Corporation | Powered wheelchair with adjustable center of gravity and independent suspension |
US5727802A (en) * | 1994-07-14 | 1998-03-17 | Everest & Jennings International Ltd. | Suspension wheelchair and wheelchair frame |
EP0903139A1 (en) | 1997-09-19 | 1999-03-24 | Sunrise Medical HHG Inc. | Quick release seat |
US5904398A (en) * | 1997-10-23 | 1999-05-18 | Farricielli; Susan | Ergonomically designed seat assembly for a portable wheelchair |
US6073951A (en) * | 1997-10-06 | 2000-06-13 | Invacare Corporation | Articulating seat/chassis interface for a wheelchair |
US6129165A (en) * | 1996-07-03 | 2000-10-10 | Pride Mobility Products, Corporation | Curb-climbing power wheelchair |
US6161856A (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2000-12-19 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension system |
US6176335B1 (en) | 1996-07-03 | 2001-01-23 | Pride Mobility Products, Corporation | Power wheelchair |
US6196343B1 (en) | 1998-10-23 | 2001-03-06 | Rollerchair Pty Ltd. | Mid-wheel drive wheelchair |
US6378947B1 (en) * | 1999-04-12 | 2002-04-30 | Bloorview Macmillan Centre | Seating system |
US6428029B1 (en) | 2001-02-09 | 2002-08-06 | Advanced Mobility Systems Corporation | Wheelchair frame |
US20030168265A1 (en) * | 2000-10-27 | 2003-09-11 | Gerold Goertzen | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US20040060748A1 (en) * | 2001-10-10 | 2004-04-01 | Molnar James H. | Wheelchair suspension |
US20040084230A1 (en) * | 2002-10-28 | 2004-05-06 | Christopher Grymko | Transportable wheelchair |
US6814411B1 (en) * | 2003-12-02 | 2004-11-09 | Sunpex Technology Co., Ltd. | Fixing structure of an electric wheelchair seat |
US20050077698A1 (en) * | 2003-10-08 | 2005-04-14 | Grymko Christopher E. | Transportable power wheelchair |
US20050206124A1 (en) * | 2004-03-16 | 2005-09-22 | Ronald Levi | Gear-driven anti-tip system for powered wheelchairs |
US20050264073A1 (en) * | 2004-05-27 | 2005-12-01 | Jon-Michael Kasten | Dynamic seat support for a wheelchair |
US20060086554A1 (en) * | 2004-10-21 | 2006-04-27 | Sunrise Medical Hhg, Inc. | Wheelchair reversible between front wheel drive and rear wheel drive |
WO2006047333A2 (en) * | 2004-10-21 | 2006-05-04 | Sunrise Medical Hhg Inc. | Wheelchair reversible between front wheel drive and rear wheel drive |
US7066290B2 (en) | 2001-10-19 | 2006-06-27 | Invacare Corp. | Wheelchair suspension having pivotal motor mount |
US20080012356A1 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2008-01-17 | Milagros Lugo | Apparatus for assisting in opening and closing the door Latch on a trailer of a tractor trailer combination |
US20090322140A1 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2009-12-31 | Camatic Pty Ltd. | Theatre chair |
US20110006582A1 (en) * | 2008-03-05 | 2011-01-13 | Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. | Seat cushion |
US20120049591A1 (en) * | 2010-08-24 | 2012-03-01 | Casual Living Worldwide, Inc. D/B/A Bji, Inc. | Knock-down furniture assembly |
US8272461B2 (en) | 2007-02-08 | 2012-09-25 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US8297388B2 (en) | 2007-01-12 | 2012-10-30 | Invacare International Sarl | Wheelchair with suspension arms |
US8534679B2 (en) | 2002-10-25 | 2013-09-17 | Invacare Corporation | Suspension for wheeled vehicles |
US8910975B2 (en) | 2007-02-14 | 2014-12-16 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair with suspension |
US9010470B2 (en) | 2009-10-09 | 2015-04-21 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US9308143B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2016-04-12 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US10335330B2 (en) | 2017-03-02 | 2019-07-02 | Travelsys4u Ltd. | Motor-driven chair steered by seat rotation |
US10667969B2 (en) | 2018-01-16 | 2020-06-02 | Kinetic Innovative Seating System Llc | Ergonomically designed seating apparatus |
US11213441B2 (en) | 2002-10-25 | 2022-01-04 | Invacare Corporation | Suspension for wheeled vehicles |
US11419773B2 (en) | 2019-11-09 | 2022-08-23 | The Onward Project, LLC | Convertible wheelchair |
CN115701962A (en) * | 2020-06-05 | 2023-02-14 | 奥托·博克移动解决方案有限公司 | Wheel chair |
US11903887B2 (en) | 2020-02-25 | 2024-02-20 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair and suspension systems |
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FR2423212A1 (en) * | 1978-04-17 | 1979-11-16 | Escande Jean | Wheelchair with large, inflatable rear wheels - can be pushed over soft ground e.g. sandy beaches by supporting frame on rear wheels only and varying tyre pressure |
SE417275B (en) * | 1978-11-16 | 1981-03-09 | Per Gotthold Bergman | INSERTABLE WHEELCHAIR |
US4592570A (en) * | 1983-10-27 | 1986-06-03 | Everest & Jennings | Ultra light wheelchair |
GB2224980B (en) * | 1988-11-08 | 1992-09-09 | Peter James Rae Bradshaw | A wheelchair |
GB9027068D0 (en) * | 1990-12-13 | 1991-02-06 | Payne F J Mfg Ltd | Wheel chair |
GB2372696A (en) * | 2000-09-29 | 2002-09-04 | Jcm Seating Solutions Ltd | A wheelchair with reclining and detachable seat elements |
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- 1975-08-29 GB GB35710/75A patent/GB1485575A/en not_active Expired
- 1975-09-09 NL NL7510635A patent/NL7510635A/en unknown
- 1975-09-09 FR FR7527646A patent/FR2323369A1/en not_active Withdrawn
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Cited By (104)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4066273A (en) * | 1976-06-09 | 1978-01-03 | Lohr Raymond J | Toy car |
US4098521A (en) * | 1976-08-09 | 1978-07-04 | Reme Enterprises, Inc. | Wheelchair adaptable for passage in narrow spaces |
US4155126A (en) * | 1978-02-13 | 1979-05-22 | CLASSEN Henry | Universal hospital chair |
US4190263A (en) * | 1978-05-22 | 1980-02-26 | Albuquerque Patents, Ltd. | Wheelchair with shock absorber |
US4234226A (en) * | 1978-10-02 | 1980-11-18 | Scott Paper Company | Adjustable and collapsible seating piece |
US4339013A (en) * | 1980-05-12 | 1982-07-13 | Weigt Gerald I | Mobile and adaptable wheel chair |
US4385769A (en) * | 1980-12-16 | 1983-05-31 | Molino Joseph L | Invalid support chair structure |
US4489955A (en) * | 1982-12-08 | 1984-12-25 | N. A. Taylor Company, Inc. | Wheelchair |
US4544200A (en) * | 1983-06-02 | 1985-10-01 | Philip Dunn | Wheelchair with rocking seat and reclining back feature |
US4763951A (en) * | 1983-08-19 | 1988-08-16 | Michael W. Silverman | Threaded locking coupler |
US4598921A (en) * | 1983-11-14 | 1986-07-08 | Lieuse Technology Limited | Wheelchair |
US4632409A (en) * | 1984-03-26 | 1986-12-30 | Hall Patricia A | Combination automobile infant seat and baby stroller assembly |
US4874203A (en) * | 1986-08-01 | 1989-10-17 | Henley Alvera S | Vehicle passenger seat for handicapped persons |
US4989890A (en) * | 1986-09-30 | 1991-02-05 | Invacare Corporation | Length and width adjustable wheelchair |
US4813693A (en) * | 1986-09-30 | 1989-03-21 | Invacare Corporation | Adjustable child's wheelchair |
EP0297831A2 (en) * | 1987-06-27 | 1989-01-04 | John Charles Payne | Wheel chair |
EP0297831A3 (en) * | 1987-06-27 | 1990-07-04 | John Charles Payne | Wheel chair |
US5121806A (en) * | 1991-03-05 | 1992-06-16 | Johnson Richard N | Power wheelchair with torsional stability system |
US5361494A (en) * | 1991-11-08 | 1994-11-08 | Medical Composite Technology, Inc. | Method of making a pair of wheelchair side frame assemblies |
US5556120A (en) * | 1993-01-11 | 1996-09-17 | Davis; Daniel W. | Amulatory wheelstand-wheelchair interface |
US5338096A (en) * | 1993-10-19 | 1994-08-16 | Taiwan Charwell Enterprise, Co., Ltd. | Locking device for a front seat of a double stroller |
US5560627A (en) * | 1993-11-16 | 1996-10-01 | Guardian Products, Inc. | Low cost wheelchair |
US5575348A (en) * | 1994-04-15 | 1996-11-19 | Invacare Corporation | Powered wheelchair with adjustable center of gravity and independent suspension |
US5853059A (en) * | 1994-04-15 | 1998-12-29 | Invacare Corporation | Powered wheelchair with adjustable center of gravity and independent suspension |
US5727802A (en) * | 1994-07-14 | 1998-03-17 | Everest & Jennings International Ltd. | Suspension wheelchair and wheelchair frame |
US6176335B1 (en) | 1996-07-03 | 2001-01-23 | Pride Mobility Products, Corporation | Power wheelchair |
US6129165A (en) * | 1996-07-03 | 2000-10-10 | Pride Mobility Products, Corporation | Curb-climbing power wheelchair |
US5947562A (en) * | 1997-09-19 | 1999-09-07 | Sunrise Medical Hhg Inc. | Quick release seat |
EP0903139A1 (en) | 1997-09-19 | 1999-03-24 | Sunrise Medical HHG Inc. | Quick release seat |
US6073951A (en) * | 1997-10-06 | 2000-06-13 | Invacare Corporation | Articulating seat/chassis interface for a wheelchair |
US5904398A (en) * | 1997-10-23 | 1999-05-18 | Farricielli; Susan | Ergonomically designed seat assembly for a portable wheelchair |
US6196343B1 (en) | 1998-10-23 | 2001-03-06 | Rollerchair Pty Ltd. | Mid-wheel drive wheelchair |
US6161856A (en) * | 1998-11-13 | 2000-12-19 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension system |
US6378947B1 (en) * | 1999-04-12 | 2002-04-30 | Bloorview Macmillan Centre | Seating system |
US7887137B2 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2011-02-15 | Camatic Pty. Ltd. | Theatre chair |
US20090322140A1 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2009-12-31 | Camatic Pty Ltd. | Theatre chair |
US20030168264A1 (en) * | 2000-10-27 | 2003-09-11 | Gerold Goertzen | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US7219755B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2007-05-22 | Invacre Corp. | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US9987177B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2018-06-05 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US7597163B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2009-10-06 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
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US6923280B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2005-08-02 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US6935448B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2005-08-30 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US20030168265A1 (en) * | 2000-10-27 | 2003-09-11 | Gerold Goertzen | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US8636089B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2014-01-28 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US8172016B2 (en) | 2000-10-27 | 2012-05-08 | Invacare Corporation | Obstacle traversing wheelchair |
US6428029B1 (en) | 2001-02-09 | 2002-08-06 | Advanced Mobility Systems Corporation | Wheelchair frame |
US8172015B2 (en) | 2001-10-10 | 2012-05-08 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US7055634B2 (en) | 2001-10-10 | 2006-06-06 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US8925943B2 (en) | 2001-10-10 | 2015-01-06 | Invacare Corp. | Wheelchair suspension |
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US20040060748A1 (en) * | 2001-10-10 | 2004-04-01 | Molnar James H. | Wheelchair suspension |
US7472767B2 (en) | 2001-10-10 | 2009-01-06 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US7374002B2 (en) | 2001-10-19 | 2008-05-20 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US7066290B2 (en) | 2001-10-19 | 2006-06-27 | Invacare Corp. | Wheelchair suspension having pivotal motor mount |
US8573341B2 (en) | 2001-10-19 | 2013-11-05 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US9925100B2 (en) | 2002-10-25 | 2018-03-27 | Invacare Corporation | Suspension for wheeled vehicles |
US11213441B2 (en) | 2002-10-25 | 2022-01-04 | Invacare Corporation | Suspension for wheeled vehicles |
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US20040084230A1 (en) * | 2002-10-28 | 2004-05-06 | Christopher Grymko | Transportable wheelchair |
US20050077698A1 (en) * | 2003-10-08 | 2005-04-14 | Grymko Christopher E. | Transportable power wheelchair |
US7207403B2 (en) | 2003-10-08 | 2007-04-24 | Pride Mobility Products Corporation | Transportable power wheelchair |
US6814411B1 (en) * | 2003-12-02 | 2004-11-09 | Sunpex Technology Co., Ltd. | Fixing structure of an electric wheelchair seat |
US20050206124A1 (en) * | 2004-03-16 | 2005-09-22 | Ronald Levi | Gear-driven anti-tip system for powered wheelchairs |
US6991292B2 (en) * | 2004-05-27 | 2006-01-31 | Adaptive Engineering Lab, Inc. | Dynamic seat support for a wheelchair |
US20050264073A1 (en) * | 2004-05-27 | 2005-12-01 | Jon-Michael Kasten | Dynamic seat support for a wheelchair |
WO2006047333A3 (en) * | 2004-10-21 | 2008-10-23 | Sunrise Medical Hhg Inc | Wheelchair reversible between front wheel drive and rear wheel drive |
US20060086554A1 (en) * | 2004-10-21 | 2006-04-27 | Sunrise Medical Hhg, Inc. | Wheelchair reversible between front wheel drive and rear wheel drive |
WO2006047333A2 (en) * | 2004-10-21 | 2006-05-04 | Sunrise Medical Hhg Inc. | Wheelchair reversible between front wheel drive and rear wheel drive |
US20080012356A1 (en) * | 2006-06-22 | 2008-01-17 | Milagros Lugo | Apparatus for assisting in opening and closing the door Latch on a trailer of a tractor trailer combination |
US8297388B2 (en) | 2007-01-12 | 2012-10-30 | Invacare International Sarl | Wheelchair with suspension arms |
US8272461B2 (en) | 2007-02-08 | 2012-09-25 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
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US8177302B2 (en) * | 2008-03-05 | 2012-05-15 | Tamarack Habilitation Technologies | Seat cushion |
US20110006582A1 (en) * | 2008-03-05 | 2011-01-13 | Tamarack Habilitation Technologies, Inc. | Seat cushion |
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US8500204B2 (en) * | 2010-08-24 | 2013-08-06 | Casual Living Worldwide, Inc. | Knock-down furniture assembly |
US20120049591A1 (en) * | 2010-08-24 | 2012-03-01 | Casual Living Worldwide, Inc. D/B/A Bji, Inc. | Knock-down furniture assembly |
US9700470B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2017-07-11 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US11234875B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2022-02-01 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US10434019B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2019-10-08 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US9308143B2 (en) | 2012-02-15 | 2016-04-12 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair suspension |
US10335330B2 (en) | 2017-03-02 | 2019-07-02 | Travelsys4u Ltd. | Motor-driven chair steered by seat rotation |
US10667969B2 (en) | 2018-01-16 | 2020-06-02 | Kinetic Innovative Seating System Llc | Ergonomically designed seating apparatus |
US11419773B2 (en) | 2019-11-09 | 2022-08-23 | The Onward Project, LLC | Convertible wheelchair |
US11903887B2 (en) | 2020-02-25 | 2024-02-20 | Invacare Corporation | Wheelchair and suspension systems |
CN115701962A (en) * | 2020-06-05 | 2023-02-14 | 奥托·博克移动解决方案有限公司 | Wheel chair |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
NL7510635A (en) | 1977-03-11 |
FR2323369A1 (en) | 1977-04-08 |
GB1485575A (en) | 1977-09-14 |
BE833602A (en) | 1976-01-16 |
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