WO2007113501A1

WO2007113501A1 - Improved lift

Info

Publication number: WO2007113501A1
Application number: PCT/GB2007/001159
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ross Ewan Suckling; Mark Bearne
Original assignee: Elevated Designs Limited
Priority date: 2006-03-31
Filing date: 2007-03-30
Publication date: 2007-10-11
Also published as: GB0606437D0

Abstract

A lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle is described. The lift comprises lifting apparatus adapted to be mounted at or adjacent an entrance of a vehicle, the entrance being suitable for use by an able bodied user and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus. The lifting apparatus is adapted to move the platform, in use, through the entrance between a first position, external of the vehicle, and a second, elevated, position within the vehicle.

Description

Improved Lift

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to apparatus for facilitating entry to and exit from a vehicle. In particular, the invention relates to a lift for facilitating entry and exit to and from a raised entry vehicle for reduced mobility or wheelchair passengers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The problems of entry to and exit from public service vehicles, such as buses, trains or coaches have provided a barrier to reduced mobility passengers for many years.

In coaches, for example, able-bodied passengers enter the vehicle via a door at the front of the vehicle. A raised stairway, facilitates entry to the passenger compartment of the vehicle, which is often at an elevated height above the road surface. An elevated compartment provides passengers with a better view from the vehicle and permits adequate storage space for baggage under the passenger compartment. However, a raised passenger compartment provides a significant barrier to the unassisted reduced mobility passenger, for example a wheelchair user. Various solutions have been proposed to the problems associated with raised entry vehicle entry and exit. For example, United Kingdom patent application GB 2,417,021 provides a public service vehicle comprising a disabled person's lift, which permits a wheelchair user to gain entry to and alight from a vehicle via a dedicated entranceway in the vehicle. On exiting the vehicle, the user is returned to the ground level by the lift.

Such a system has drawbacks however; firstly, a dedicated door or entranceway is required. Such an arrangement reduces the number of places available for reduced mobility users and makes retrofitting the system to a coach an extremely expensive option. Secondly, once raised up to and into the passenger compartment, the wheelchair user remains on the lift platform during the duration of the journey. In such a situation, the user may feel stigmatised by being isolated from others on the vehicle or by being clearly identified as a reduced mobility user. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus adapted to be mounted at an entrance of a vehicle, the entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, the lifting apparatus adapted to move the platform through the entrance between a first position, external of the vehicle, and a second, elevated, position within the vehicle.

A lift according to an embodiment of the present invention facilitates entry and exit to and from a raised entry vehicle such as a coach or bus for reduced mobility or wheelchair users, the apparatus being fitted to an existing vehicle entry door. In this way, both able-bodied users and reduced mobility users may access the vehicle, for example a coach or the like, via the same door. The present invention thus obviates the requirement for a separate, dedicated, entry for reduced mobility users. Additionally, the present invention increases the flexibility of seating plans available to the vehicle manufacturer and vehicle operator, permitting maximum space for seating within the vehicle and resulting in more efficient and economic operation.

Preferably, the first position defines, in use, a level adjacent to a ground level, kerb level, platform level or the like. Preferably, the second position defines, in use, a level adjacent to a vehicle passenger compartment level.

Alternatively, or in addition, the second position, in use, may define an equivalent level to the top of at least one step in the vehicle. Accordingly, the lift permits the user to be moved from the first level to the second level such that the reduced mobility user has access to the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Preferably, the platform is adapted to permit the user to exit the lift once located at the second position within the vehicle. In such an arrangement, a passenger is not limited to sitting on the platform for the duration of the journey.

Preferably, the lift permits entry and exit of one or more reduced mobility users to and from the vehicle.

Most preferably, the lift permits "roll-on-roll-off ' operation for a user. An embodiment of the present invention thus facilitates transport of more than one reduced mobility user into the vehicle. Preferably, the lift is adapted to be entered and exited in a direction parallel, in use, to the side of the vehicle. This arrangement permits the lift to be used in confined spaces, for example a narrow bus bay. Furthermore, as the user can mount the platform in a direction parallel to side of the vehicle, the user, once onboard, is facing the direction of travel.

Preferably, the lift is adapted to define a stored configuration and a deployed, operational configuration.

The lift may be stored under a step of the vehicle.

Preferably, in use and in the stored configuration, the lift defines at least a portion of a step of the vehicle.

Most preferably, in use and in the stored configuration, the platform at least partially defines the lowest raised step of the vehicle. Beneficially, therefore, the space occupied by the lift in the stored configuration is minimal and does not obstruct use of the entranceway of the vehicle, for example the coach. Preferably, in use, the lift is adapted to move between the stored configuration and the deployed configuration.

In a preferred embodiment, the lift further comprises a deployment mechanism, the deployment mechanism adapted to selectively move the lift between the stored and deployed configurations. Preferably, the deployment mechanism comprises a chain and sprocket arrangement.

Preferably, in use, the deployment mechanism comprises a sprocket and a chain.

Preferably, the sprocket comprises a driven sprocket, the driven sprocket being mounted to the lifting apparatus.

Preferably, the lift further comprises a first drive motor. Preferably, the first drive motor is adapted to rotate the driven sprocket. Preferably, in use, the chain remains substantially stationary. Preferably, rotation of the driven sprocket causes relative movement of the sprocket with respect to the chain.

Preferably, rotation of the driven sprocket moves the lifting apparatus and the platform from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration.

Preferably, the deployment mechanism is adapted to be manually actuated. Preferably, the deployment method includes at least one additional sprocket. Preferably, the additional sprocket can be manually actuated. Preferably, the lift further comprises a second drive motor. Preferably, the second drive motor is adapted to rotatably engage at least one driven member. Preferably, the at least one driven member is at least one lifting arm.

Preferably, the second drive motor is adapted to rotatably engage three driven members.

Preferably, rotation of the/each driven member selectively raises and lowers the platform between the first position and the second position. Preferably, the/each driven member is configured to permit the platform to rotate within an arcuate path defined by the/each driven member.

Preferably, in use, the first position defines the maximum lateral displacement of the platform from the vehicle. Thus, in rotating between the first position and the second position, the platform does not move laterally further away from the vehicle at any point in the arcuate path.

Preferably, the/each driven member is disposed on one side of the platform. Preferably, the lift further comprises at least one support member coupled to the platform.

Preferably, the/each support member is adapted to support the weight of the platform. Accordingly, the/each driven member is not required to support the weight of the platform and user when the apparatus is moved. Beneficially, this permits the use of a relatively small first drive motor, reducing power consumption and overall weight of the lift.

Preferably, the lift is capable of moving loads of up to approximately 350kg. Accordingly, the lift may be utilised to lift the platform and a user from the first position to the second position with an appropriate Factor of Safety. Preferably, the lift further comprises at least one handrail. Preferably, the/each handrail is coupled to the platform. Most preferably, the/each handrail is rotatably coupled to the platform. Preferably, the handrail is rotatable through approximately 90 degrees to be substantially vertical in the deployed configuration and substantially horizontal in the stored configuration. In this arrangement, the handrails may be stored on the platform in the stored configuration and unfolded to the vertical when the lift is to be used. This reduces the space required to store the lift within the vehicle and permits the platform to define the step of the vehicle.

Alternatively, the handrails are releasably coupled to the platform. Preferably, the lift includes a plurality of handrails, a handrail being disposed on each side of the platform. Handrails prevent the user from falling off the apparatus and provide additional support for reduced mobility users.

Preferably, the platform has a rough or textured surface. A non-slip surface is provided for the user to assist grip and prevent, for example, wheelchair users sliding on the platform. Preferably, the lift further comprises a ramp to assist access to and from the platform.

Preferably, the ramp is rotatably coupled to the platform. Preferably, the ramp is movable between a platform accessible configuration and a platform closed configuration. In use, in the platform accessible configuration, the ramp permits and facilitates access to the platform. Once the user is onboard, the ramp can be rotated to close the entry of the platform to create an enclosed platform. Thus, advantageously, the ramp additionally acts as a safety barrier.

Preferably, the ramp can be locked in the platform closed configuration. Preferably, the vehicle is a public service vehicle. Most preferably, the vehicle is a coach, bus, or semi-coach.

Alternatively, the vehicle is a rail carriage, or any other vehicle with an elevated passenger compartment.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of lifting a reduced mobility passenger into a vehicle, the method comprising the steps: providing lifting apparatus mounted at an entrance of a vehicle, the entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; providing a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus; and activating the lifting apparatus to move the platform between a first position external of the vehicle and a second, higher, position within the vehicle.

Preferably, the method further comprises the step of moving the lift from a stored configuration to a deployed configuration prior to activating the lifting apparatus. Preferably, the lift is moved from the deployed configuration to the stored configuration prior to movement of the vehicle.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a public service vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a passenger seating area; a vehicle entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; and a lift mounted adjacent the vehicle entrance, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus; and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, the lifting apparatus adapted to move the platform through the vehicle entrance between a first position external of the vehicle and a second, higher, position adjacent the passenger seating area.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus adapted to be mounted at an entrance of a vehicle; and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, wherein, in use with a vehicle, the lifting apparatus is adapted to move the platform between a stored position in which the lift platform is substantially enclosed within a lift storage bay defined by the vehicle, a first position, external of the vehicle, and a second, elevated, position within the vehicle.

The advantages and features of the first aspect of the present invention may be common to third and fourth aspects and for the purposes of brevity and clarity these have not been repeated here.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a front portion of a vehicle comprising a lift in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows an isometric perspective view of the lift of Figure 1 shown in a deployed configuration;

Figure 3 shows a cut-away isometric perspective view of part of the lift of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4a shows an enlarged plan view of the drive unit of the lift as shown in

Figure 3;

Figure 4b shows an enlarged front elevation of the drive unit of the lift as shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 shows a side elevation view of the lift of Figures 1 to 4, shown in the first position;

Figure 6 shows a plan view of the lift of Figures 1 to 5, shown in the first position;

Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the lift of Figures 1 to 6, shown in a stored configuration;

Figure 8 shows a schematic view of the lift of Figures 1 to 7, shown in a deployed configuration;

Figure 9 shows a schematic view of the lift of Figures 1 to 8, shown in a first lower position Figure 10 shows a schematic view of the lift of Figures 1 to 9, shown in a position between the first, lower, position and a second, elevated, position; and

Figure 11 shows a schematic view of the lift of Figures 1 to 10, shown in the second, elevated, position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is first made to Figure 1 of the drawings in which there is shown a perspective view of a front portion of a coach, generally indicated by reference numeral 10, comprising a lift 30, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

The coach 10 comprises an entrance 12, the entrance 12 being selectively opened and closed by a door 14 which rotates and slides across the entrance 12.

The coach 10 further includes an elevated passenger compartment 16 enabling the passengers (not shown) a superior view from the coach's windows 18 and permitting adequate storage space below the passenger compartment 16 within a luggage hold 20.

In order to gain access to the passenger compartment 16, the coach 10 comprises a series of steps 22, 24a, 24b the lowest step 22 being at an elevated position above a ground level 26. Referring now to Figures 2 to 11, showing various views of the lift 30, it can be seen that the lift 30 comprises a lifting apparatus 32, a horizontal platform 34 for moving a reduced mobility passenger (not shown) from a lower first position 36 outside the coach 10 (shown most clearly in Figure 9), to a second elevated position 38 within the coach 10 (as shown in Figure 11), adjacent the passenger compartment

16 of the coach 10. .

When not required the lift 30 also defines a stored configuration 40 (shown in Figure 7). In the stored configuration 40, the lift platform 34 defines the lowest step 22 of the coach 10. Thus, the lift platform 34 is utilised by all passengers to gain entry to the coach 10.

The lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 is moved from the stored configuration 40 through an aperture 23 beneath step 24a step aperture 23 (Figure 1) to a deployed configuration 42 (Figure 8) for operation, the lifting apparatus 32 being moved on a pair of guide rails 44 (as shown in Figure 2). As can be seen on Figures 4a and 4b, the application 32 is slidably coupled to each guide rail 44 by a guide 48 such that, in use, lateral and vertical movement of the apparatus 32 on the guide rails 44 is restricted.

Each guide 48 comprises a linear rolling element bearing 50 (shown most clearly in Figures 5 and 6), providing a bearing surface 46 assisting smooth movement of the guides 48 over the slider rails 44.

The rails 44 are rigidly separated by a first brace 52 and a second brace 54, the braces 52,54 coupled to the upper and lower faces, respectively, of the rails 44 to form a frame 56. The frame 56 is rigidly fitted to the chassis of the coach 10.

The lift 30 further comprises a housing 58 (Figure 2). The housing 58 contains the drive systems for the lift 30. The housing 58 prevents the drive systems from being exposed to the elements and any passengers. The housing 38 is fixedly connected to guides 48.

The first lift drive system for moving the lift apparatus 32 and the platform from the stored configuration 40 to the deployed configuration 42 will now be described with reference to Figures 4a, 4b and 6. In Figures 4a and 4b the top and front respectively of the housing 38 has been removed for clarity. Movement from the stored configuration 40 to the deployed configuration 42 is precisely controlled by a deployment mechanism 60, particularly by a chain and sprocket mechanism. The chain and sprocket mechanism 60 comprises a ten horse power direct current (DC) motor 62, and a motor drive shaft 64 fixedly coupled to a driven sprocket 66. A chain 68 is looped around three additional sprockets 85,86,87. One of the sprockets, the lower sprocket, indicated by numeral "86" includes a lock (not shown) which locks the lower sprocket 86 and prevents movement of the chain 68 in normal use. The chain and sprocket mechanism 60 further includes a tensioning system 88 which fixes the chain 68 securely to the sprockets 66,85,86,87. Rotation of the motor shaft 64 in a first direction moves the driven sprocket 66 along the fixed chain 68 and drives the lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 out from their storage position 40 under the higher steps 24a, 24b of the coach 10 to the deployed configuration 42.

Rotation of the motor shaft 64 in a counter, second direction moves the driven sprocket 66 along the chain 68 in the opposite direction to move the lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 from the deployed configuration 42 to the stored configuration 40.

In an emergency, the lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 can be moved between the stored and deployed configurations 40,42 manually. In an emergency the driven sprocket 66 is locked, fixing it relative to the chain 68, and the lower sprocket 86 is unlocked. Actuation of a lower socket drive shaft 89 moves the chain 68, the driven sprocket 66, the lifting apparatus 32 and platform 34 between the stored and deployed configurations 40,42.

Once the lift apparatus 32 and the platform 34 are deployed, it can then be used to move a user from the first lower position 36 external to the coach 10 to the second elevated position 38 within the coach 10. The second lift drive system for moving the lift platform 34 from the first lower position 36 to the second elevated position 38 will now be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. The lifting apparatus 32 further comprises a second ten horse power dc motor 70 mounted within the housing 58. The second motor 70 lifts the platform 34 between the first and second position 36, 38. The second motor 70 is coupled to a 60:1 gear ratio worm gear arrangement 72. A worm gear arrangement 72 permits a high gear ratio to be achieved for a relatively small package. Also, a worm gear 72 assists in preventing non-slip, smooth movement of the apparatus 32 between the first and second positions 36, 38. In use, the motor 70 drives a bevel gear arrangement 90,91 which in turn drives the worm gear 72, the worm gear 72 engaging to drive a spur gear 74 mounted around a drive shaft 76 secured within the housing 58. The drive shaft 76 is rotationally mounted on ball bearings 96 disposed adjacent each end of the shaft 76. A portion of the end of the shaft 76 is splined and engages a corresponding spline in a first driven member or arm 78, rotation of the motor 70 and shaft 76 thus rotating the arm 78 in a vertical plane following an arcuate path while maintaining a level and horizontal platform 34. A second driven arm 79 is disposed on the opposite end of the shaft 76 to the first arm 78 and interacts with the shaft 76 in the same way. a third driven arm 84 is connected through a gear train 94 on spur gears 95,96,97 to the shaft 76.

If the second motor 70 fails, the platform can be moved between the first and second positions manually by rotation of an emergency lifting shaft 98 drives an alternative bevel gear arrangement 91,92, which in turn drives the worm gear 72 as described.

The driven arms 78 are rotatably coupled at their distal end to the platform 34. The platform 34 comprises a horizontal base 80 and a foot portion 82 located on an under side of the platform 34 to directly engage the ground surface 26.

The platform 34 will now be described with reference to Figure 2, the platform 34 further comprises handrails 110 rotatably fixed to the platform 34 via brackets 112.

Handrails 110 are disposed on three sides of the platform 34. In use, on reaching the deployed configuration 42, the handrails 110 are unfolded by an operator (not shown) such that are locked in a vertical orientation. The handrails 110 comprise hinges 90 which permit the handrails 110 to be locked to each other when disposed in the vertical orientation.

An access ramp 99 is disposed on a fourth side of the platform 34 and, in use, acts as a means for entry and exit from the platform 34. In addition, during movement of the platform 34 between the first position 36 and the second position 38, the ramp 99 can be positioned in a vertical orientation to act as a safety barrier. The ramp 99 is rotatably hinged at its lower edge to the platform 34 by means of a piano type hinge 100, such that the ramp 99 can be positioned on the platform surface 34 when stored, positioned vertically when acting as a safety barrier, and rotated to engage the ground surface 26 permitting users, particularly wheelchair users, to gain access to the platform 34. The operation of the lift 30 will now be described. Should a reduced mobility user require to enter or leave the coach 10, an operator, in this case the coach driver engages the first motor 62 to move the lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 from the stored configuration 40 (Figure 7) to the deployed configuration 42 (Figure 8). The operator then engages the second motor 70 to lower the platform 34 to the first, lowered position 36 with the platform 34 engaging the ground surface 26 (Figure 9).

At this point, the handrails 110 are rotated from their horizontal stored position to the vertical position and locked into position to create a partially enclosed lift platform 34 and the access ramp 99 is unfolded to engage the ground surface 26.

A reduced mobility user (not shown) then mounts the platform 34 via the access ramp 99 at 90 degrees to the side of the coach 10. As the user wished to face forwards when he is situated in the passenger compartment 16, he mounts the platform 34 in a forward direction. Once the user is safely located on the platform 34, the ramp 99 is rotated to a vertical orientation to fully enclose the platform 34. The platform 34 can then be raised to the second elevated position 38 shown in Figure 11. For clarity, an interim position between the first position 36 and the second position 38 is shown in Figure 10. Movement from the first position 36 to the second position 38 is achieved by engaging the second motor 70 which co-operates with the driven arms 78,79,84 as previously described.

Once the platform 34 is in the second elevated position 38 (Figure 11) the platform 34 abuts an edge of the passenger compartment 16 such that the ramp 99 can be rotated to engage the passenger compartment floor such that the user can exit the platform 34 by reversing into the passenger compartment 16. A space is provided at the front of the passenger compartment 16 for a wheelchair. The user is now safely in the passenger compartment 16 facing forward, the same direction as the other coach passengers. The described procedure can then by reversed and the lifting apparatus 32 and the platform 34 can be returned to the stored configuration beneath the steps 24a, 24b. It should be understood that the embodiment described is merely exemplary of the present invention and that various modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, it will be understood that although the apparatus permits entry and exit for the reduced mobility user via the same entrance as an able-bodied user, the present invention may alternatively, or in addition, be used with a dedicated entrance. Furthermore, while the apparatus may be intended for use by reduced mobility users the present invention does not preclude use of the apparatus by able-bodied users, where appropriate.

Any suitable means of moving the apparatus safely between the operational configuration and the stored configuration may be adopted, for example a selectively ' releasable ratchet and spring mechanism to bias the apparatus in the stored location or the like. This would enable the apparatus to be stored in the event of failure of the first motor.

The apparatus may be moved between the operational and stored configuration by, for example, a rack and pinion mechanism, selectively engageable ratchet mechanism or any other suitable means for moving the apparatus between the operational and stored configurations.

It will be understood that although the present invention is of greatest benefit to vehicles which have a number of steps between the ground level and passenger compartment, it is envisaged that the present invention may be used in any vehicle where there is a height difference between the ground surface and the passenger compartment including, for example low loader buses and buses comprising adaptable suspension or the like.

Although the preferred embodiment comprises three driven members, the present invention may comprise one or more driven member and one or more support member where appropriate.

Claims

1. A lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus adapted to be mounted at or adjacent an entrance of a vehicle, the entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, the lifting apparatus adapted to move the platform, in use, through the entrance between a first position, external of the vehicle, and a second, elevated, position within the vehicle.

2. The lift of claim 1, wherein the first position defines, in use, a level adjacent to a ground level, kerb level, platform level or the like.

3. The lift of either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the second position defines, in use, a level adjacent to a vehicle passenger compartment level.

4. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the second position, in use, defines an equivalent level to the top of at least one step in the vehicle.

5. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the platform is adapted to permit the user to exit the lift once located at the second position within the vehicle.

6. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift is adapted to be entered and exited in a direction parallel, in use, to the side of the vehicle.

7. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift is adapted to define a stored configuration and a deployed, operational configuration.

8. The lift of claim 7, wherein the lift is adapted to be stored under a step of the vehicle.

9. The lift of either of claims 7 or 8, wherein, in use and in the stored configuration, the lift defines at least a portion of a step of the vehicle.

10. The lift of any of claims 7 to 9, wherein, in use and in the stored configuration, the platform at least partially defines the lowest raised step of the vehicle.

11. The lift of any of claims 7 to 10, wherein, in use, the lift is adapted to move between the stored configuration and the deployed configuration.

12. The lift of any of claims 7 to 11, wherein the lift further comprises a deployment mechanism, the deployment mechanism adapted to selectively move the lift between the stored and deployed configurations.

13. The lift of claim 12, wherein the deployment mechanism comprises a chain and sprocket arrangement.

14. The lift of claim 12, wherein, in use, the deployment mechanism comprises a toothed belt and complementary sprocket.

15. The lift of claim 13, wherein the sprocket comprises a driven sprocket, the driven sprocket being mounted to the lifting apparatus.

16. The lift of claim 15, wherein the lift further comprises a first drive motor.

17. The lift of claim 16, wherein the first drive motor is adapted to rotate the driven sprocket.

18. The lift of any of claims 15 to 17, wherein, in use, the chain remains substantially stationary.

19. The lift of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein, rotation of the driven sprocket causes relative movement of the sprocket with respect to the chain.

20. The lift of any of claims 15 to 19, wherein, rotation of the driven sprocket moves the lifting apparatus and the platform from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration.

21. The lift of any of claims 12 to 20, wherein, the deployment mechanism is adapted to be manually actuated.

22. The lift of any of claims 12 to 21, wherein the deployment method includes at least one additional sprocket.

23. The lift of any of claims 12 to 22, wherein the additional sprocket can be manually actuated.

24. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift further comprises a second drive motor.

25. The lift of claim 24, wherein the second drive motor is adapted to rotatably engage at least one driven member.

26. The lift of claim 25, wherein the at least one driven member is at least one lifting arm.

27. The lift of either of claims 25 or 26, wherein the second drive motor is adapted to rotatably engage two driven members.

28. The lift of any of claims 25 to 27, wherein rotation of the/each driven member selectively raises and lowers the platform between the first position and the second position.

29. The lift of claim 28, wherein the/each driven member is configured to permit the platform to rotate within an arcuate path defined by the/each driven member.

30. The lift of any of claims 25 to 29, wherein the/each driven member is disposed on one side of the platform.

31. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift further comprises at least one support member coupled to the platform.

32. The lift of claim 31, wherein the/each support member is adapted to support the weight of the platform.

33. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift is capable of moving loads of up to approximately 350kg.

34. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein in use, the first position defines the maximum lateral displacement of the platform from the vehicle.

35. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift further comprises at least one handrail.

36. The lift of claim 35, wherein the/each handrail is coupled to the platform.

37. The lift of claim 36, wherein the/each handrail is rotatably coupled to the platform.

38. The lift of claim 37, wherein the/each handrail . is rotatable through approximately 90 degrees to be substantially vertical in the deployed configuration and substantially horizontal in the stored configuration.

39. The lift of any of claims 36 to 38, wherein the/each handrail is releasably coupled to the platform.

40. The lift of any of claims 25 to 29, wherein the lift includes a plurality of handrails, a handrail being disposed on each side of the platform.

41. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the platform has a rough or textured surface.

42. The lift of any preceding claim, wherein the lift further comprises a ramp to assist access to and from the platform.

43. The lift of claim 42, wherein the ramp is rotatably coupled to the platform.

44. The lift of either of claims 42 or 43, wherein the ramp is movable between a platform accessible configuration and a platform closed configuration.

45. The lift of claim 44, wherein the ramp can be locked in the platform closed configuration.

46. A method of lifting a reduced mobility passenger into a vehicle, the method comprising the steps: providing lifting apparatus mounted at an entrance of a vehicle, the entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; providing a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus; and activating the lifting apparatus to move the platform between a first position external of the vehicle and a second, higher, position within the vehicle.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising the step of moving the lift from a stored configuration to a deployed configuration prior to activating the lifting apparatus.

48. The method of claim 47, further comprising the step of moving the lifting apparatus and the platform to the stored configuration prior to movement of the vehicle.

49. A public service vehicle, the vehicle comprising: a passenger seating area; a vehicle entrance suitable for use by an able bodied user; and a lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle, the lift mounted at or adjacent the vehicle entrance, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, the lifting apparatus adapted to move the platform through the vehicle entrance between a first position external of the vehicle and a second, higher, position adjacent the passenger seating area.

50. A lift for lifting a reduced mobility user into a vehicle, the lift comprising: lifting apparatus adapted to be mounted at an entrance of a vehicle; and a substantially horizontal platform coupled to the lifting apparatus, wherein, in use with a vehicle, the lifting apparatus is adapted to move the platform between a stored position in which the lift platform is substantially enclosed within a lift storage bay defined by the vehicle, a first position, external of the vehicle, and a second, elevated, position within the vehicle.