WO2014035250A1

WO2014035250A1 - Transport aiding device adapted for descending or climbing a staircase

Info

Publication number: WO2014035250A1
Application number: PCT/NL2013/050635
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arnoldus Johannes Antonius BOUWHUIS
Original assignee: Bsure B.V.
Priority date: 2012-09-03
Filing date: 2013-09-03
Publication date: 2014-03-06

Abstract

A transport aiding device adapted for descending or climbing a staircase with a single person sitting in the transport aiding device, which transport aiding device rides on the staircase during the descent or climbing, and can be handled and/or operated by at least one assistant walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device. The device comprises a wheeled frame structure, including a frame base having at least two rear legs and two rear wheels. The device has a collapsible seat assembly with a seat and at least least one rail assembly including a movable endless belt, which rail assembly is adapted to ride over a staircase with said belt. The rail assembly is pivotally secured to the frame base and is movable between a collapsed storage position and an operative position pivoted backward from the frame base. The frame structure further comprises an extensible rear handle member providing a handle for an assistant walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device.

Description

TRANSPORT AIDING DEVICE ADAPTED FOR DESCENDING OR CLIMBING A

STAIRCASE

The present invention relates to a transport aiding device adapted for descending or climbing a staircase with a single person sitting in the transport aiding device, which transport aiding device rides on the staircase during the descent or climbing, and can be handled and/or operated by at least one assistant walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device when descending the staircase.

In the field, such transport aiding devices are for example offered as carry chairs or ambulance chairs, for example, to be used for instance by ambulance personnel to transport a patient to an ambulance, or as an evacuation chair as an emergency rescue tool in buildings.

The term 'person' in the present context will mean every person who is transported using the transport aiding device since he/she cannot, or does not wish to, independently climb or descend the staircase.

The known transport aiding devices have several drawbacks in their practical use.

The invention aims to provide a several proposals that allow for an improved transport aiding device.

The invention provides a device according to claim 1.

The inventive device requires little storage space yet allows for a long extensible rear handle member so that the assistant walking behind the device when descending a staircase can assume a comfortable and stable position, e.g. avoiding that said assistant has to bend forward when descending a staircase which may contribute to the assistant losing his balance.

In an embodiment a rear handle member locking mechanism is provided locking the rear handle member at least in its lower storage position. Optionally a locking mechanism also allows for locking of the rear handle member in its raised operative position and possibly in one or more intermediate positions. For example a lockable intermediate position of the rear handle member can be provided for when it is envisaged to employ the rear handle member to suspend IV-equipment or other medical equipment for the person thereon when the device is used as a wheelchair. In a preferred embodiment the rear handle member comprises a cross bar handle and two stiles interconnected at or near their upper ends by the cross bar handle, most preferably the stiles preferably being telescopically received in the rear legs.

To enhance the deployment of the device, in particular in an emergency situation, it is envisaged that at least one spring member is provided urging the rear handle member from its lower storage position towards its raised operative position upon unlocking of the locking mechanism that locks the rear handle member. Most preferably said spring member comprises a gas spring. In an embodiment with the stiles of the rear handle member telescopically received in the rear legs, it is an option that a gas spring is arranged within the telescopic structure formed by a stile and a rear leg to enhance the deployment of the rear handle member.

In an embodiment the rear handle member locking mechanism locks the rear handle member at least in its storage position, this locking mechanism being operatively connected to the one or more rail assemblies such that upon displacement of the one or more rail assemblies to their deployed position, the rear handle locking mechanism is unlocked. This cooperation reduces the number of actions to be taken by an assistant upon deployment of the transport aiding device, which is beneficial e.g. in emergency situations (e.g. with unskilled assistant).

In a practical embodiment a spring member, e.g. embodied as gas spring, urges the rear handle member towards its raised operative position when the rear handle locking mechanism is unlocked by the deployment motion of the one or more rail assemblies. In an embodiment the rear handle member locking mechanism comprises a first locking part attached to a rail assembly, which locking member engages on a cooperating second locking part of the rear handle member when locked in its lower storage position and which first locking part disengages from said second locking part upon motion of the rail assembly to its deployed position. For example, the first locking part is a hook or pin or the like engaging in a corresponding locking hole in the rear handle member, e.g. in a stile thereof. In another design the rail assembly is coupled to the locking mechanism via a cable, e.g. a Bowden cable, so as to transfer the pivotal deployment motion of the rail assembly into an unlocking of the locking mechanism. In another design the rail assembly is coupled to the locking mechanism via a mechanical transmission other than a cable, e.g. said transmission comprising one or more control rods and/or one or more gears, or the like that convert the deployment motion of the one or more rail assemblies into an unlocking of the rear handle locking mechanism.

To store the device in collapsed condition, it is envisaged that the seat assembly is secured in its collapsed position via a manually releasable securing mechanism, e.g. a belt with a releasable latch, e.g. a belt having two belt ends secured to the seat assembly and slung around the frame structure when holding the seat assembly in collapsed position.

In a preferred embodiment the seat assembly is construed such that - with the frame structure in upright position - release of the securing mechanism causes the automatic deployment of the seat assembly to its deployed position, most preferably solely based on gravity, possibly aided by some spring.

In a most preferred embodiment, the seat assembly is mechanically linked to said one or more rail assemblies such that upon deployment of the seat assembly or of the one or more rail assemblies, the mechanical link causes the one or more rail assemblies or the seat assembly also to move into the deployed position. For example the seat assembly comprises a lever member, e.g. U-shaped, that performs a pivotal motion about a horizontal pivot axis relative to the frame structure, the lever member having a rear lever member portion that is at or near a rear end thereof connected to a rail assembly such that pivotal motion of said rear lever member portion from a downward direction position, when the seat assembly is in collapsed position, upward about the pivot axis causes the rail assembly to move into its deployed position. In an embodiment the rear lever member portion is slidably connected to a linear guide on a rail assembly. In another, more preferred, embodiment a linkage arm is arranged between the rear lever member and the rail assembly, the linkage arm being hinged to the rear lever member by a first hinge and to the rail assembly by a second hinge, said hinges forming horizontal hinge axes.

In an embodiment a rail assembly lock mechanism is provided adapted to lock the rail assembly in its deployed position, preferably automatically upon reaching said deployed position.

In an embodiment the rail assembly lock mechanism comprises a spring member, e.g. a gas spring, urging the rear lever member portion into its upwardly pivoted position. For example a gas spring is mounted with a lower end thereof to the frame structure at a position below the pivot axis of the lever member relative to the frame structure and is connected with an upper end thereof to the rear lever member portion.

A spring equipped rail assembly lock mechanism can be designed as an overcenter mechanism that in one position exerts a force to urge and keep the rail assembly or assemblies into deployed position and in another position exerts a light force that effectively retards the deployment motion of the seat assembly.

It will be appreciated that in an embodiment with a mechanical linkage between the seat assembly and the one or more rail assemblies as above, and in combination with a rear handle member that is spring biased upwardly, and that is locked in its storage position by a locking mechanism, and with said locking mechanism operatively connected to the rail assembly to unlock when said assembly is deployed, the deployment of the device is highly facilitated and requires minimal action by the assistant.

In an embodiment one can envisage that the assistant merely has to release a manually releasable securing mechanism (e.g. a belt securing the seat assembly relative to the frame), the seat assembly then moving by itself (e.g. by gravity) into its deployed position, the rail assemblies being entrained by the mechanical linkage to their deployed position, the rear handle member being unlocked, and the spring (e.g. gas spring) extending the rear handle member upwards. More preferably a locking mechanism then locks the position of the rail assemblies and therewith of the seat when appropriately linked. Optionally there may be another locking mechanism locks the rear handle member in its fully extended position.

In an embodiment the device comprises two rail assemblies in parallel arrangement, each rail assembly preferably being arranged to the inside of a neighbouring rear wheel of the device, preferably the parallel arrangement being such that the assistant walking behind the device when descending the staircase can place his feet between the assemblies. In a preferred embodiment the assemblies are interconnected for stability, e.g. by a transverse bar arranged near the wheels of the frame. In an embodiment each rail assembly comprises a lower roller near its lower end and an upper roller near is upper end, wherein preferably the lower roller is mounted on a common shaft with the neighbouring rear wheel.

In an embodiment each belt is embodied as a toothed belt having teeth both on the outside engaging the staircase and on the inside, the lower roller (possibly also the upper roller) being embodied as a pinion meshing with the teeth of the belt. In another embodiment the belt only has teeth on the inside to mesh with a pinion type roller. In an embodiment a brake mechanism and associated brake control mechanism are provided adapted to brake the belt of the one or more rail assemblies. In an embodiment the brake mechanism is adapted to simultaneously brake the rear wheels and the belt of the one or more rail assemblies. The provision of a brake mechanism e.g. allows the assistant to control the descend of the device along the staircase.

In an embodiment the brake control mechanism comprises a first brake lever mounted on the rear handle member so as to be operable by the assistant walking behind the device when descending a staircase.

In an embodiment, preferably in combination with a gas spring biased telescopic rear handle member, the brake control mechanism comprises a telescopic brake control rod extending between the brake mechanism on the one hand, preferably arranged near the lower end of the rail assembly, e.g. engaging on the interconnected rear wheel and lower roller, and a first brake lever mounted on the rear handle member on the other hand, said telescopic brake control rod telescopically extending when the rear handle member is extended from its lower storage position into its raised operative position.

In an embodiment the frame base is provided with at least one further handle bar, possibly two handle bars that in operation extend rearward or a single transverse horizontal handle bar, more preferably of a folding design in view of storage, each handle bar adapted to be gripped by an assistant walking behind the device when riding over a ground surface, e.g. when using the device as a wheelchair.

In an embodiment the at least one further handle bar is provided with a second brake lever operatively connected to the same brake mechanism or mechanisms as the first brake lever on or near the rear handle bar member.

In an embodiment a rear wheel and a lower roller of a rail assembly are interconnected so as to rotate in unison, wherein the brake mechanism is adapted to simultaneously brake the rear wheel and the lower roller of the rail assembly

In a preferred embodiment the brake mechanism includes a disc brake, e.g. a disc brake of the type as used on bicycles. In an embodiment the seat assembly includes one or more front wheels, preferably two front wheels embodied as castors, that allow the device to ride on a ground surface with said one or more front wheels and said two rear wheels when the seat assembly is in deployed position, e.g. when using the device as a wheelchair.

In an embodiment the seat assembly comprises one or more front handle bar members adapted to be held by an assistant walking in front of the device when descending a staircase.

In an embodiment one or more motors are provided to drive the belt of the one or more rail assemblies, e.g. electric motors, preferably adapted to drive the belt for climbing the staircase with a person sitting on the seat.

In an embodiment a drive motor is embodied as a releasable unit, e.g. including a battery, wherein this releasable unit can be readily mounted, e.g. click fitted, on the device, e.g. directly onto a drive shaft of the lower roller of the belt of the rail assembly. For example the device is combined with a loading station that receives the disconnected drive motor and battery unit for loading the battery, the unit then being connectable to the device to drive the device, e.g. up the staircase.

In an embodiment the device comprising a lighting member, e.g. including one or more LED lights. This may e.g. enhance visibility in the area around the device, e.g. when smoke reduces vision.

In an embodiment the device comprises a lighting member control arrangement adapted to automatically switch on the lighting member when the seat assembly and rail assemblies reach their deployed position, preferably when locked in said deployed position. The light thus informs the assistant that the deployment has been fully performed and that the device is safe to be used so that the person can sit down on the seat.

In an embodiment the lighting member is provided underneath the seat, preferably the light being directed downward onto the ground and/or staircase. This may enhance vision of the assistant(s) of the device, e.g. onto the staircase so that one can see where to place the feet.

In an embodiment the device is provided with a foldable tent structure which can be brought into an operative position wherein the tent structure envelopes the person/patent sitting on the seat, the enveloping tent structure preferably extending over the person along the back, front and sides of the person down to the feet of the person, e.g. down to any footrest of the device, the enveloping tent structure shielding the person from the atmosphere, e.g. from smoke in case of fire, possibly an air tank being provided to supply air to the person.

In an embodiment the tent structure has a storage mode, wherein the tent structure is stored along the rear side of the frame structure.

In an embodiment the device is provided, as alternative to the seat assembly and/or in combination therewith, with one or more incubator support members to support one or more incubators, e.g. the tent structure being deployable over the one or more incubators. This version may e.g. be of utility at a maternity ward of hospital. One can envisage an embodiment with one or more shelves, e.g. pivotal between a collapsed and deployed position, onto which one or more incubators (with children therein) can be placed, possibly each shelf having securing belts or similar to tie an incubator securely to the shelf.

In an embodiment a backrest member is arranged between the two rear legs, e.g. a flexible backrest member.

In an embodiment a headrest member is arranged on the extensible rear handle member, e.g. arranged between the two stiles of the rear handle member when present. In an embodiment the frame base comprises multiple transverse bars interconnecting the rear legs.

In an embodiment that reduces space for storage, two front handle bar members are extensible mounted in the seat assembly, which front handle bar members can be pulled forward to a deployed position to be held by an assistant walking in front of the device when descending a staircase.

In a practical embodiment the seat assembly comprises an upper seat frame member provided with the seat and pivotally connected to the frame base about a horizontal pivot axis.

In an embodiment the seat assembly comprises two front legs, each pivotally connected at an upper end thereof to the seat frame member remote from its pivotal connection to the frame base, and each at a lower end thereof pivotally connected to a lower beam, which lower beam extends generally parallel to the seat frame member and is at its rear end pivotally connected to the frame base so that said lower beam, front legs, and upper seat frame member from a four-bar- mechanism. In an embodiment the seat assembly is provided with a footrest.

It is preferred that the length of each of the rail assemblies is such that each assembly is in contact with two steps of the staircase. However, in an alternative - mainly for use on staircase with narrow bends or similar environments - one can envisage an embodiment wherein the device is provided with shortened rail assembly that are of a length so that each assembly contacts only one step of a staircase.

In an embodiment the seat assembly is supported on the frame structure through at least a turning motion bearing, which turning motion bearing allows the seat assembly to be turned with respect to the base frame and deployed rail assemblies while descending or climbing a staircase with a bend, so that the seat assembly can already be turned in the direction of the bend with respect to the frame structure while approaching the bend. This makes it possible to give the chair assembly, and thus the patient, an appropriate position with respect to the support while descending/climbing and to change the position during transport. Further information about such embodiment can e.g. be found in WO2008/127089.

Preferably, the turning motion bearing is such that while descending or climbing a staircase with a bend, the chair assembly can already be turned in the direction of the bend with respect to the support while approaching the bend. This makes it possible to pass relatively narrow bends without the transport aiding device getting stuck in the corner and/or collision of the patient with the wall, stair handrail or other obstacle.

For example, the device is provided with one or more handgrips for the assistant walking in the front - during descending - so that this person can turn the chair assembly with respect to the support which rests on the staircase. One or more of such handgrips may form part of a feet support structure of the device.

It is preferred for the device to be embodied such that there are two assistants to assist in descending a staircase with a patient, one walking behind the device and holding the rear handle member, and one walking in front of the device and holding a front handle member preferably provided on the seat assembly.

The present invention also relates to a method of transportation of a person wherein use is made of a device according to the invention.

The present invention also relates to a method of transportation of one or more incubators, wherein use is made of a device according to the invention. The invention will now be explained with reference to the appended drawings. In the drawings:

Fig. 1 shows an example of a device according to the invention in deployed condition, Fig. 2 shows the device of fig. 1 in deployed condition

Fig. 3 shows the device of fig. 1 in collapsed condition,

Fig. 4. shows the device of fig. 1 in deployed condition from the front,

Fig. 5 shows the device of fig. 1 in deployed condition from below when resting on the rail assemblies,

Fig. 6 shows the device of fig. 1 in deployed condition in perspective view from behind, Fig. 7 shows in more detail the handle frame member locking mechanism in collapsed condition of the device of fig. 1 ,

Fig. 8 shows in more detail the linkage between the seat assembly and the rail assembly, and the overcenter locking mechanism in collapsed condition of the device of figure 1 , Fig. 9 shows the descent of a staircase with a person sitting in the device,

Fig. 10 shows the provision of a tent structure on the device,

Fig. 11 shows the use of the device for transportation of incubators,

Fig. 12 shows the use of the device for transportation of a coffin,

Fig. 13 shows the use of the device for transportation of a person secured on a stretcher,

Fig. 14 shows an embodiment with shortened rail assemblies that have only two points of contact between the staircase and the belt.

With reference to figures 1 - 8 now an example of a transport aiding device 1 according to the invention will be described. The device 1 is adapted for descending or climbing a staircase 90 (see figures 9 and further) with a single person A sitting in the transport aiding device. The transport aiding device 1 rides on the staircase during the descent or climb, and can be handled and/or operated by at least one assistant B walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device when descending the staircase. Possibly, the device 1 is such that another assistant can walk in front of the device and grip the device as well to facilitate the handling of the device and the person therein.

The device comprises a wheeled frame structure, including a frame base having at least two rear legs 2, 3 interconnected by a transverse bar 4 or otherwise. The frame base is provided with two rear wheels 5, 6, here of the non-swivelling type as is preferred, which are adapted to ride over a ground surface. The device 1 further comprises a seat assembly 7 with a seat 8, e.g. a cushioned seat or a seat fabric or a plastic seat. The seat assembly 7 is movable secured to the frame base (with rear legs 2, 3) and is movable between a collapsed storage position (see figure 3) and a deployed position forward of the frame base, in which deployed position the person can sit on the seat 8.

The device comprises two rail assemblies 10, 11 (also known as belt assemblies or ski assemblies) which each include a movable endless belt 12. The rail assemblies 10, 11 are adapted to ride over a staircase with the belts 12. Each rail assembly is at a lower end thereof pivotally secured to the frame base and is movable between a collapsed storage position (see figure 3) and an operative position pivoted backward from the frame base.

The frame structure of the device 1 further comprises a rear handle member 15 that provides a handle for an assistant walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device 1. The rear handle member 15 is extensible mounted relative to the frame base so as to be extensible between a lower storage position (see figure 3) and a raised operative position, possibly in one or more distinct intermediate positions.

The device is provided with a rear handle member locking mechanism 20 to lock the rear handle member 15 at least in its lower storage position. Possibly, this locking mechanism also allows to lock member 15 in its raised operative position and in any intermediate position.

The drawings show that the rear handle member comprises a cross bar handle 16 and two stiles 17, 18 which are interconnected at or near their upper ends by the cross bar handle 16.

As is preferred, the stiles 17, 18 are telescopically received in the rear legs 2, 3. In another embodiment the stiles slide along the rear legs or in yet another embodiment the rear handle member is hinged to the rear legs 2, 3.

As is preferred at least one spring member is provided urging the rear handle member 15 from its lower storage position towards its raised operative position upon unlocking of the locking mechanism 20. In the embodiment shown the stiles 17, 18 are telescopically received in the rear legs 2, 3 and a gas spring 19a is arranged between the frame, here member 4 thereof, and the rear handle member 15. The drawings illustrate that the stiles 17, 18 are at or near their lower ends interconnected by a transverse member 19 that has been indicated with a dashed line in figure 4. This transverse member 19 slides through slits 19b that have been provided in the rear legs 2, 3 within each of the telescopic structures formed by a stile 17, 18 and a rear leg 2, 3. As shown the gas spring 19a is attached to the center of this transverse member 19.

The rear handle member locking mechanism 20 is operatively connected to the one or more rail assemblies 10, 11 such that upon displacement of the rail assembly to its deployed position, the rear handle locking mechanism 20 is automatically unlocked. When unlocked, the gas spring 19a urges the rear handle member 15 towards its raised operative position.

In the embodiment shown best in figure 7 the rear handle member locking mechanism 20 comprises a first locking part 21 that is attached to rail assembly 10, 1 1 (here one part 21 embodied as a hook on each assembly), which locking member 21 engages on a cooperating second locking part 22 (here a hole in the transverse member 19) of the rear handle member 15 when locked in its lower storage position and which first locking part 21 disengages from said second locking part 22 upon motion of the rail assembly to its deployed position. In another embodiment, for example, a locking hole is provided in each stile 17, 18.

In another embodiment each rail assembly is coupled to the rear handle member locking mechanism via a cable, e.g. a Bowden cable, so as to transfer the pivotal deployment motion of the rail assembly into an unlocking of the locking mechanism of the member 15. The seat assembly 7 is secured in its collapsed position via a manually releasable securing mechanism. As shown schematically in figure 3 this mechanism may comprise a belt 25 with a releasable latch 26, e.g. having two belt parts that are each secured to the seat assembly or to the frame structure with the latch in between the belt parts. The belt 25 may be slung around the seat assembly to hold the seat assembly in collapsed position.

The seat assembly 7 is construed such that - with the frame structure in upright position - release of the securing mechanism 25, 26 causes the automatic deployment of the seat assembly 7 to its deployed position, preferably solely based on gravity as here. The seat assembly 7 is mechanically linked to the rail assemblies 10, 11 such that upon deployment of the seat assembly 7 or of the rail assembly 10, 11 , the mechanical link causes the one or more rail assemblies 10, 1 1 or the seat assembly 7 also to move into the deployed position.

In the embodiment shown here, which is preferred, the seat assembly 7 comprises a lever member 9 (here embodied as a U-shaped member with two arms) that performs a pivotal motion about a horizontal pivot axis 30 relative to the frame structure, the lever member (here each arm thereof) having a rear portion 9a (here one for each arm) that is at or near a rear end thereof connected to a linkage arm 9b. The linkage arm 9b is arranged between the rear lever member portion 9a one the one hand and the rail assembly 10, 11 on the other hand. In more detail the linkage arm 9a is hinged to the rear lever member portion 9a by a first hinge 9c and to the rail assembly 11 by a second hinge 9d. These hinges 9c, 9d form horizontal hinge axes. As a result pivotal motion of the rear portion 9a from a downward direction position, when the seat assembly is in collapsed position, upward about the pivot axis 30 causes the rail assembly 10, 1 1 to move into its deployed position. In an alternative version, for example, the rear lever member portion 9a is slidably connected to a linear guide on the respective rail assembly 10, 11 such that pivotal motion of said rear portion from a downward direction position, when the seat assembly is in collapsed position, upward about the pivot axis causes the rail assembly 10, 1 1 to move into its deployed position.

The device comprises a rail assembly lock mechanism 14 that is adapted to lock the rail assembly in its deployed position, preferably - as here - automatically upon reaching said deployed position. In an embodiment illustrated here - for each rail assembly 10, 1 1 - the rail assembly lock mechanism 14 comprises a spring member, here a gas spring 14a, urging the rear lever member portion 9a into its upwardly pivoted position when the device has been deployed. As shown the gas spring 14a is mounted with a lower end thereof to the frame structure at a position below the pivot axis 30 of the lever member 9 relative to the frame structure and is connected with an upper end thereof to the rear lever member portion 9a. This spring equipped rail assembly lock mechanism 14 is designed as an overcenter mechanism that in one position (see e.g. figures 1 ,2, 8) exerts a force to urge and keep the rail assembly 10, 11 into deployed position and in another position (see figures 3, 8) exerts a light force that effectively retards the deployment motion of the seat assembly. As is shown, the device 1 has two rail assemblies 10, 11 in parallel arrangement, each rail assembly being arranged generally to the inside of a neighbouring rear wheel 5, 6 of the device. Each rail assembly comprises a lower roller 35, 36 near its lower end and an upper roller 37, 38 near is upper end. In the embodiment shown here each belt 12 is passed around two lower rollers and a single upper roller.

In an embodiment a lower roller 35, 36 is mounted on a common shaft with the neighbouring rear wheel 5, 6 to rotate in unison therewith.

In an emergency, or generally when the device is to be put into use to transport a person down a staircase or otherwise, it basically suffices for the assistant to release the latch 26. This will cause the seat assembly 7 to deploy forward under gravity, possibly assisted by the assistant pulling towards him one or more rail assemblies (e.g. a handgrip being provided thereon to facilitate said back pulling action, or the person pulling on a transverse bar 13b arranged between the chassis of the assemblies 10, 1 1). As the seat assembly 8 deploys the rail assemblies 10, 11 deploy simultaneously. The locks 14 then lock the deployed position. The backward pivoting of the assemblies 10, 11 effect the release of the locking mechanisms 20, so that the rear handle member 15 is released and the gas spring 19a urges the rear handle member upward.

The device 1 has a brake mechanisms 45, 46 (only discs are shown for clarity) and an associated brake control mechanism adapted to brake the belts 12 of the rail assemblies 10, 1 1. In an embodiment the belts 12 are braked in unison with the rear wheels 5, 6.

The brake control mechanism illustrated here by way of example only in figure 4 comprises a brake lever 40 that is mounted on or adjacent the rear handle member 15, here parallel to the bar 16, so as to be operable by the assistant walking behind the device whilst holding on to the handle bar member 16 when descending a staircase. In another embodiment e.g. one or two lever type brake handles are fitted on the member 15.

The brake control mechanism further comprises a transmission, e.g. with one or more control rods and/or brake cables between each brake mechanism 45, 46 on the one hand, which is arranged near the lower end of the rail assembly, and the brake lever 40 (here common for both brakes 45, 46) mounted on the rear handle member on the other hand. In view of the telescopic action of the rear handle member 15 it is for example envisaged that a first member, e.g. a rod or constant tensioned cable part, extends through the stiles 17, 18 to the lower end thereof, the lower end of the first member being connected to a flexible brake cable with the rear legs 2, 3. This flexible brake cable then attaches to the related brake mechanism 45, 46.

The frame base is provided with a rear handle bar 50, possibly a folding handle bar, adapted to be gripped by a hand or hands of an assistant walking behind the device when riding over a ground surface, e.g. when using the device as a wheelchair.

In an embodiment not shown here at least one additional rear handle bar, e.g. 50, is provided with a second brake lever operatively connected to the same brake mechanism 45, 46 as the first brake lever 40 or with brakes solely acting on wheels 5, 6. As is preferred the brake mechanisms 45, 46 are embodied as a disc brake, e.g. of the type used in bicycles. This allows the assistant to control the braking action in attractive manner. The brake mechanism may include a brake disc that is directly secured on a rotatable shaft to which is also secured the lower toothed roller guiding the respective toothed belt 12 of the assembly.

If desired, as shown here, an additional locking brake 72 may be provided for each rear wheel 5, 6, which brake 72 engages directly on the outside of the rear wheel to lock the rear wheel against rotation. The seat assembly 7 includes two front wheels 55, 56, here as swivelling castor wheels, that allow the device to ride on a ground surface with said front wheels and the two rear wheels when the seat assembly is in deployed position, e.g. when using the device as a wheelchair.

The seat assembly 7 may comprises two front handle bar members 60 that are adapted to be held by an assistant walking in front of the device when descending a staircase, see e.g. figure 9.

As can be seen a backrest member 75 is arranged between the two rear legs 2, 3, here a flexible backrest member.

A headrest member may be arranged on the extensible rear handle member 15, e.g.

arranged between the two stiles 17, 18 of the rear handle member 15. In an embodiment two front handle bar members 60 are extensible mounted in the seat assembly, e.g. telescopic in beams 82, 83, which front handle bar members can be pulled forward to a deployed position to be held by an assistant walking in front of the device when descending a staircase.

The seat assembly 7 comprises an upper seat frame member 9 provided with the seat 8 and pivotal ly connected to the frame base about horizontal pivot axis 30.

The seat assembly further comprises two front legs 80, 81 , each pivotally connected at an upper end thereof to the seat frame member remote from its pivotal connection to the frame base, and each at a lower end thereof pivotally connected to a lower beam 82, 83, which lower beam extends generally parallel to the seat frame member and is at its rear end pivotally connected to the frame base so that said lower beam, front legs, and upper seat frame member from a four-bar- mechanism.

The seat assembly is provided with a footrest 90.

In the embodiment shown in figures 1 - 7 the length of the rail assemblies 10, 1 1 is such that each assembly is in contact with at least two, e.g. three, steps of the staircase.

It is envisaged, yet not shown, that one or more motors are provided to drive the belt of the one or more rail assemblies, e.g. electric motors, preferably adapted to drive the belt for climbing the staircase with a person sitting on the seat. In an embodiment a motor is embodied as a releasable unit, e.g. including a battery, wherein said releasable unit can be readily mounted, e.g. click fitted, on the device, e.g. directly onto a drive shaft of the lower roller of the belt of the rail assembly.

As is optional the device 1 comprising a lighting member 70, e.g. including one or more LED lights.

The device comprises a lighting member control arrangement adapted to switch on the lighting member 70 when the seat assembly and rail assemblies are in their deployed position, preferably when locked in said deployed position, e.g. by providing one or more switches.

As is preferred the lighting member 70 is provided underneath the seat 8, preferably the light being directed downward onto the ground and/or staircase. Fig. 8 shows the provision of a tent structure 100 on the device of figure 1. The foldable tent structure 100 can be brought into an operative position wherein the tent structure envelopes the person A sitting on the seat 8. The enveloping tent structure extends over the person along the back, front and sides of the person down to the feet of the person, here down to any footrest 90 of the device. The enveloping tent structure 100 shields the person from the atmosphere, e.g. from smoke in case of fire, possibly an air tank being provided to supply air to the person. The tent structure has a storage mode, e.g. within a pouch or container, wherein the tent structure is stored along the frame structure or elsewhere.

The tent structure may comprise one or more arched struts 101 , 102 etc., e.g. pivotally secured to the frame structure, to define the shape of the deployed tent structure to provide sufficient space for the person A.

Fig. 11 shows the use of the device 1 for transportation of multiple incubators 1 10 and auxiliary units. The device 1 here is equipped with a shelves structure upon which the incubators 1 10 can be arranged and safely secured.

It is envisaged, as is preferred, that the tent structure 100 can be mounted to extend over the incubators 1 10. One may envisage that the seat 8 is removable so as to allow for a multi-story shelves structure to be arranged instead of the seat, or on top of the seat 8.

Fig. 12 shows the use of the device for transportation of a coffin 120. Here it is envisaged that the seat 8 is removed and one or more additional (preferably removable) support brackets 125, 126 are provided on the device to support the coffin 120. The coffin generally extends parallel to the rear legs and stiles during transportation. Instead of a coffin the object 120 could also be a domestic appliance or other object.

Fig. 13 shows the use of the device for transportation of a person A secured on a stretcher 130. The stretcher 130 may be secured at the height near the head of person A to the rear handle member 15 and to the seat assembly.

Fig. 14 shows an embodiment with shortened rail assemblies 10", 1 1" that have only two points of contact between the staircase and the belt instead of three as with the more common length rail assemblies 10, 1 1.

Claims

C L A I M S

1. Transport aiding device (1) adapted for descending or climbing a staircase with a single person (A) sitting in the transport aiding device, which transport aiding device rides on the staircase during the descent or climbing, and can be handled and/or operated by at least one assistant (B) walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device when descending the staircase, wherein the device comprises: a wheeled frame structure, including a frame base having at least two rear legs (2,3), the frame base being provided with two rear wheels (5,6) adapted to ride over a ground surface, a seat assembly (7) comprising a seat (8), which seat assembly is movable secured to the frame base and is movable between a collapsed storage position and a deployed position forward of the frame base, in which deployed position the person can sit on the seat, at least one rail assembly (10, 11) including a movable endless belt (12), which rail assembly is adapted to ride over a staircase (90) with said belt, which rail assembly is at a lower end thereof pivotally secured to the frame base and is movable between a collapsed storage position and an operative position pivoted backward from the frame base, wherein the frame structure further comprises a rear handle member (15) providing a handle for an assistant (B) walking on the staircase behind the transport aiding device (1), said rear handle member being extensible mounted relative to the frame base so as to be extensible between a lower storage position and a raised operative position.

2. Device according to claim 1 , wherein a rear handle member locking mechanism (20,21) is provided for locking the rear handle member (15) at least in its lower storage position, and wherein at least one spring member (19a) is provided urging the rear handle member (15) from its lower storage position towards its raised operative position upon unlocking of the locking mechanism (20), wherein, preferably, said spring member comprises a gas spring (19a).

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein the rear handle member locking mechanism (20) is operatively connected to the one or more rail assemblies (10, 11) such that upon displacement of the rail assembly to its deployed position, the rear handle member locking mechanism is unlocked.

4. Device according to claim 3, wherein the rear handle member locking mechanism comprises a first locking part (21) attached to a rail assembly (10, 1 1), which locking member engages on a cooperating second locking part (22) of the rear handle member when locked in its lower storage position and which first locking part disengages from said second locking part upon motion of the rail assembly to its deployed position, for example wherein the first locking part is a hook or pin (21) or the like engaging in a corresponding locking hole (22) in the rear handle member, e.g. in a stile thereof.

5. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the seat assembly is mechanically linked (9,9a) to said one or more rail assemblies (10, 11) such that upon deployment of the seat assembly (8) or of the rail assembly (10, 11), the mechanical link causes the one or more rail assemblies or the seat assembly also to move into the deployed position.

6. Device according to claim 5, wherein the seat assembly (7) comprises a lever member (9), e.g. integrated with an upper seat frame member supporting the seat (8), which lever member (9) performs a pivotal motion about a horizontal pivot axis (30) relative to the frame structure, the lever member having a rear lever member portion (9a) that is at or near a rear end thereof connected to a rail assembly (10, 11) such that pivotal motion of said rear portion from a downward direction position, when the seat assembly (7) is in collapsed position, upward about the pivot axis (30) causes the rail assembly to move into its deployed position, wherein, preferably, a linkage rod (9b) is arranged between the rear lever member portion (9a) and the rail assembly (10, 11).

7. Device according one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the seat assembly is secured in its collapsed position via a manually releasable securing mechanism (25), e.g. a belt with a releasable latch (26) holding the seat assembly in collapsed position, and wherein the seat assembly (7) is construed such that - with the frame structure in upright position - release of the securing mechanism (25) causes the automatic deployment of the seat assembly to its deployed position, preferably solely based on gravity.

8. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprising a lighting member (70), e.g. including one or more LED lights, for example the device comprising a lighting member control arrangement adapted to switch on the lighting member (70) automatically when the seat assembly and rail assemblies are in their deployed position, e.g. wherein the lighting member (70) is provided underneath the seat, preferably the light being directed downward onto the ground and/or staircase.

9. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the rear handle member (15) comprises a cross bar handle (16) and two stiles (17, 18) interconnected by the cross bar handle, the stiles (17, 18) preferably being telescopically received in the rear legs (2,3).

10. Device according to claim 9, wherein the stiles (17, 18) are telescopically received in the rear legs, and wherein the lower ends of the stiles (17, 18) are interconnected by a transverse member (19) that extends through a slit in each of the rear legs so as to allow for telescopic motion of the rear handle member (15), and wherein, possibly, a gas spring (19a) is arranged between the frame member and the transverse member (19).

1 1. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein a rail assembly lock mechanism (14) is provided adapted to lock the rail assembly (10, 11) in its deployed position, e.g. a spring equipped overcenter locking mechanism (14).

12. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises two rail assemblies (10, 11) in parallel arrangement, each rail assembly preferably being arranged to the inside of a neighbouring rear wheel (5,6) of the device.

13. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein each rail assembly comprises a lower roller (35,36) near its lower end and an upper roller (37,38) near is upper end, wherein, possibly, the lower roller is mounted on a common shaft with the neighbouring rear wheel (5,6).

14. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein at least one brake mechanism (45,46) and associated brake control mechanism (40) are provided adapted to brake the belt (12) of the one or more rail assemblies, e.g. the brake mechanism includes a disc brake (45,46), wherein, preferably, the brake control mechanism comprises a brake lever (40) mounted on the rear handle member (15) so as to be operable by the assistant (B) walking behind the device when descending a staircase.

15. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the frame base is provided with at least one further handle bar (50) adapted to be gripped by an assistant (B) walking behind the device when riding over a ground surface, e.g. for use of the device as a wheelchair.

16. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the seat assembly includes one or more front wheels (55,56) that allow the device to ride on a ground surface with said one or more front wheels and said two rear wheels when the seat assembly is in deployed position, wherein, preferably, said one or more front wheels are castors.

17. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the seat assembly comprises one or more front handle bar members (60) adapted to be held by an assistant walking in front of the device when descending a staircase.

18. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein one or more motors are provided to drive the belt of the one or more rail assemblies, e.g. electric motors, preferably adapted to drive the belt for climbing the staircase with a person sitting on the seat, wherein, for example, a motor is embodied as a releasable unit, e.g. including a battery, wherein said releasable unit can be readily mounted, e.g. click fitted, on the device, e.g. directly onto a drive shaft of the lower roller of the belt of the rail assembly.

19. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the device is provided with a foldable tent structure (100,101 ,102) which can be brought into an operative position wherein the tent structure envelopes the person (A) sitting on the seat (8), the enveloping tent structure preferably extending over the person (A) along the back, front and sides of the person down to the feet of the person, e.g. down to any footrest (90) of the device, the enveloping tent structure shielding the person from the atmosphere, e.g. from smoke in case of fire, possibly an air tank being provided to supply air to the person.

20. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, e.g. according to claim 19, wherein the device is provided with one or more incubator support members to support one or more incubators (1 10), e.g. the tent structure (100) being deployable over the one or more incubators.

21. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the seat assembly comprises an upper seat frame member (9) supporting the seat (8) and pivotally connected to the frame base about a horizontal pivot axis (30).

22. Device according to claim 21 , wherein the seat assembly comprises two front legs (80,81), each pivotally connected at an upper end thereof to the upper seat frame member (9) remote from its pivotal connection (30) to the frame base, and each at a lower end thereof pivotally connected to a lower beam (82,83), which lower beam extends generally parallel to the upper seat frame member (9) and is at its rear end pivotally connected to the frame base so that said lower beam, front legs, and upper seat frame member from a four- bar- mechanism.

23. Method of transportation of a person wherein use is made of a device according to one or more of the preceding claims.