WO2017158504A1 - Device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit - Google Patents

Device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2017158504A1
WO2017158504A1 PCT/IB2017/051463 IB2017051463W WO2017158504A1 WO 2017158504 A1 WO2017158504 A1 WO 2017158504A1 IB 2017051463 W IB2017051463 W IB 2017051463W WO 2017158504 A1 WO2017158504 A1 WO 2017158504A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
wheelchair
plate
clamping unit
motor unit
unit
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2017/051463
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Angelo Vitali
Original Assignee
Moretti S.P.A.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Moretti S.P.A. filed Critical Moretti S.P.A.
Publication of WO2017158504A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017158504A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • A61G5/04—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs motor-driven
    • A61G5/047—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs motor-driven by a modular detachable drive system
    • 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
    • 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
    • A61G5/1054—Large wheels, e.g. higher than the seat portion

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to the technical field of wheelchairs for disabled and/or invalids, with particular reference to the devices for the rapid connection of said wheelchairs to the corresponding motor units .
  • Said types of wheelchairs comprise basically a supporting frame; a seat fixed to the frame and able to support a seated person; a couple of posterior wheels connected to the frame, that can be activated manually by the person on the seat; a couple of anterior wheels connected to the frame for allowing the stable support of the wheelchair on the ground; potential stopping devices preferably acting on the posterior wheels.
  • Posterior wheels are normally of considerably superior sizes compared to the anterior wheels, to guarantee an optimal motion.
  • motor units are generally used, allowing to transform wheelchairs into a sort of three- wheels vehicles.
  • Motor units can be both with manual activation and with electrical activation.
  • motor units comprise:
  • - braking means activatable by the handlebar and acting on a braking plate fixed to the wheel;
  • a device fixed to the frame, for the rapid connection to a wheelchair.
  • the rapid connection device is usually placed beneath the disabled' s legs.
  • such a device for the rapid connection of the motor unit to the wheelchair comprises a plurality of pivots which can engage and/or release corresponding holes and fixing means of the threaded type.
  • a device for the connection is dealt, formed by a posterior part which is connected movably to the wheelchair and an anterior part having a rotatable arm which can be engaged to the posterior part of the device by means of a clamping system.
  • an arm is equipped with a sleeve which can engage with a pivot integral to the motor unit. It is necessary to drive said arm to achieve the connection, in such a manner so as to insert the pivot inside the sleeve and then to rotate the arm towards the locking position by means of the clamping system which engages with the posterior part of the device. In this way, the motor unit is pulled towards the wheelchair and fastened to it.
  • a further aim of the present invention is to provide a device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit, that can easily be used also by disabled suffering from paraplegia and quadriplegia.
  • Another aim of the present invention is to provide a device allowing a connection between motor unit and wheelchair that does not require precision first to position and then to put the wheelchair near the motor unit, thus making the coupling operation easy and practically mechanical.
  • the aforementioned aims are therefore obtained through a device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3), according to claim 1.
  • Said device comprises:
  • a first element (4) configured for being fixed in use to the wheelchair (2) and comprising first coupling means (41, 42);
  • a second element (5) detached from the first element (4) and configured for being fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit (3) in such a manner so as to allow a connection between the wheelchair and the motor unit trough the approach and the subsequent engagement of the first element (4) fixed to the wheelchair with the second element (5) fixed to the motor unit, the second element (5) comprising:
  • Second coupling means (51, 52) comprising a clamping unit and able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42) to allow the connection of the wheelchair (2) to the motor unit (3);
  • Controlling means (6) able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means (51, 52) to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the unfastening of the wheelchair (2) from the motor unit (3).
  • the first element (4) comprises a unit (45) for the fastening to a tubular element (20) of the wheelchair (2) and a first plate (40) fixed to the fastening unit (45) and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2), and wherein the first coupling means comprise a couple of parallel pivots which stand orthogonally from the first plate (40).
  • the second element (5) comprises a second plate (50) fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2).
  • the second coupling means comprise a recess (51) shaped in the peripheral part of the second plate (50) able to accommodate a first pivot (41) of the first coupling means and with the clamping unit (52) of the second coupling means which comprises a fixed clamp defined by a peripheral part of the second plate (50) and a movable clamp (520), determined by an end of a third plate (55), articulated to the second plate (50) and with the second pivot which is placed in correspondence of said clamping unit when the first pivot is inside the narrowing (51) and with such a movable clamp (520) activated in opening and/or closing by the controlling means (6) to allow the release and/or engagement of the clamping unit (52) with the second pivot (42) of the first coupling means.
  • the first (4) and the second element (5) are separated elements which are fixed in use to the wheelchair and to the motor unit, therefore it is enough to place them to the right height to obtain a simple and rapid connection as the wheelchair is put close to the motor unit or vice versa. Moreover, such a device can be adapted to any motor unit or wheelchair.
  • first elastic means are comprised, arranged to maintain the clamping unit in closed position C; the clamps of the clamping unit are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot of the first coupling means is able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit in contrast to the first elastic means arranged to maintain the clamp in closed position and with the second pivot which engages firmly with the clamping unit, facilitated by said first elastic means, to allow the connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit.
  • the proposed device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit comprises further one or more of the following characteristics, considered singularly or combined:
  • the peripheral part of the second plate which determines the fixed clamp has a concave shape and the end of the third plate which determines the movable clamp is hook-shaped;
  • the controlling means comprise a control lever articulated to the second plate and manually activatable, and first transmitting means connected to the control lever and able to act on the third plate to allow the activation of the movable clamp while opening and/or closing;
  • controlling means comprise first elastic means fixed to the second plate and acting on the third plate to maintain the movable clamp of the clamping unit in closed configuration; with the activation of the control lever which obstructs the action of the first elastic means to bring the movable clamp of the clamping unit in opened configuration, and to allow the release of the clamping unit with the second pivot of the first coupling means;
  • the clamps of the clamping unit are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot of the first coupling means is able to: insert itself between the clamps of the clamping means in contrast with the first elastic means, and engage with the clamping unit, facilitated by the first elastic means, to allow the connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit;
  • the first transmitting means comprise second elastic means acting on the third plate, m contrast with the first elastic means, in such a manner so as to allow a gradual action of the movable clamp of the clamping unit in the transition from the closed configuration to the opened configuration, wherein the detachment of the wheelchair from the motor unit is allowed;
  • the controlling means comprise a control element placed on the motor unit, preferably in correspondence of the handlebar, and second transmitting means which connects the control element to the clamping unit to allow the activation of the clamping unit while opening and/or closing;
  • the system for the rapid connection of a wheelchair for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit comprising a couple of devices placed bilaterally to the wheelchair .
  • Figures 1, 1A show both lateral and aberl views of a wheelchair and a motor unit in uncoupled configuration
  • Figures 2, 2A show corresponding lateral and aberl views of a wheelchair and a motor unit in coupled configuration
  • Figure 3A, 4A, 5A show the related naval views of the proposed device of rapid connection in the corresponding sequence of operating phases shown in figure 3, 4, 5.
  • such a device 1 of rapid connection comprises:
  • ⁇ second coupling means (51, 52) comprising a clamping unit and able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42) to allow the connection of the wheelchair 2 to the motor unit 3;
  • controlling means (6) able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means (51, 52) to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the unfastening of the wheelchair 2 from the motor unit 3.
  • the first element 4 can comprise a fastening unit 45 for the fastening to a tubular element 20 of the wheelchair 2, and a first plate 40 fixed to the fastening unit 45 and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair 2.
  • the first coupling means comprise a couple of parallel pivots (41, 42) which stand orthogonally from the first plate 40.
  • the second element 5 can comprise a second plate 50 fixable to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3 and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair 2.
  • the second coupling means can comprise a recess 51, shaped in the peripheral part of the second plate 50, able to house a first pivot 41 of the first coupling means.
  • the clamping unit 52 of the second coupling means comprises advantageously a fixed clamp, determined by a second peripheral part of the second plate 50 and a movable clamp 520 determined by an end of a third plate 55 articulated to the second plate 50.
  • the second peripheral part of the second plate 50 which determines the fixed clamp has a concave shape, as well as the end of the third plate 55 which determines the movable clamp 520 is hook-shaped.
  • Such a movable clamp 520 is activated in opening and/or closing by the controlling means 6 to allow the release and/or engagement of the clamping unit 52 with the second pivot 42 of the first coupling means.
  • controlling means 6 comprise a control lever 60 articulated to the second plate 50 and manually activatable, and first transmitting means 61 connected to the control lever 60 and able to act on the third plate 55 to allow the activation of the movable clamp 520 in opening and/or closing.
  • controlling means 6 can further comprise a first elastic spring 62 fixed to the second plate 50 and acting on the third plate 55 to maintain the movable clamp 520 of the clamping unit 52 in closed configuration C ( Figures 3, 4, 3A, 4A) .
  • the clamps of the clamping unit 52 are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration C of the clamping unit 52, the second pivot 42 of the first coupling means is able to:
  • the first transmitting means 61 comprise a second elastic spring 63 acting on the third plate 55, in contrast with the first elastic spring 62, in such a manner so as to allow a gradual action of the movable clamp 520 of the clamping unit 52 in the transition from the closed configuration C to the opened configuration A, wherein the detachment of the wheelchair 2 from the motor unit 3 is allowed ( Figure 5, 5A) .
  • controlling means 6 can comprise alternatively:
  • control element placed on the motor unit 3, preferably in correspondence of the handlebar 30, and
  • second transmitting means which connects the control element to the clamping unit 52 to allow the activation of the clamping unit 52 in opening and/or closing .
  • the proposed system for the rapid connection of a wheelchair 2 for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit 3, comprises only as an example a couple of devices 1 placed bilaterally to the wheelchair 2 ( Figures 1, 2, 1A, 2A) .
  • the second plate 50 can be advantageously produced with two parts articulated each other, whose related configuration can be determined through adjusting means 7, preferably comprising through holes that can be engaged by correspondent stabilization pivots.
  • the proposed device 1 of rapid connection is able to adapt to the different types of wheelchairs on the market.
  • figures 3, 3A show a configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, is detached from the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
  • control lever 60 is raised and the clamping unit 52 is in closed configuration C facilitated by the first spring 62, with the pivots (41, 42) fixed to the first plate 40 which are released from the first recess 51 of the second plate 50 and from the clamping unit 52.
  • figures 3 and 3A the wheelchair 2 is detached or uncoupled from the motor unit 3.
  • figures 4, 4A they show a configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, is coupled to the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
  • control lever 60 is raised and the clamping unit 52 is in closed configuration C, facilitated by the first spring 62.
  • the first pivot 41 is housed in the recess 51 of the second plate 50 and the second pivot 42 is first inserted between the clamps of the clamping unit 52, in contrast with the first spring 62, and then is engaged firmly with the clamping unit 52, facilitated by the first spring 62.
  • the wheelchair 2 is connected, or coupled, to the motor unit 3 and the first plate 40 of the first element 4 contacts the second plate 50 of the second element 5.
  • FIGS 5, 5A show an intermediate configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, can detach from the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
  • the first plate 40 contacts the second plate 50, the first pivot 41 is still housed in the recess 51 and the second pivot 42 is released from the clamps of the clamping unit 52, from which it can exit, as well as the first pivot can exit from the recess 51.
  • the first pivot 41 While the first pivot 41 exits from the recess 51, the first pivot 41 itself intercepts the control lever 60 by bringing it back to the raised position and by forcing the transition of the clamping unit 52 from the opened configuration A to the closed configuration ( Figures 3, 3A) .
  • controlling means able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means and the consequent detachment, or unfastening, of the wheelchair from the motor unit.
  • a quality of the invention is that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot is first able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit, in contrast with the first elastic spring, and then it engages firmly with the clamping unit, facilitated by the first elastic spring, thus allowing a simple and easy connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit.
  • the device of rapid connection object of the invention can be easily used also by disabled suffering from quadriplegia or suffering from severe forms of paraplegia.
  • the coupling and uncoupling phases are extremely simple and rapid, as, in the embodiment shown in the attached drawings, it is necessary to act on the control lever only to allow the detachment of the wheelchair from the motor unit, while, regarding the connection, it takes place automatically, as the second pivot, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, is able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit, in contrast with the first elastic spring, without requiring the intervention of the control lever.
  • a locking device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3) comprising:
  • a first element (4) configured for being fixed in use to the wheelchair (2) and comprising at least a first pivot (41) and a second pivot (42);
  • a second element (5) separated from the first element (4) and configured for being fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit, said second element comprising a plate (50) having a clamping element arranged to engage with one of said two pivots, said clamping element being movable between an opened position wherein it releases the pivot and a closed position wherein it can engage the pivot;
  • Elastic means arranged in such a manner so as to maintain the clamping element in a closed position
  • Said plate being shaped along at least a part of its perimeter in such a manner so as to form at least a guide which drives the first pivot inside a cavity (51) and such that, in said position wherein the first pivot is placed inside the cavity, the second pivot is in correspondence of the clamping element and with the clamping element shaped in such a manner that, following a thrust on the pivot which exceeds the elastic force maintaining the clamping element in closed position, the second pivot engages snapping with the clamping element;
  • a lever (60) is foreseen, articulated with the clamping element in such a manner that an activation of said lever leads the clamping element to the opened position, thus allowing to release said second pivot and allowing the detachment between the wheelchair and the motor unit.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Handcart (AREA)

Abstract

The proposed device (1) for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3) comprises a first element (4) that can be fixed to the wheelchair (2) and comprising first coupling means (41, 42), and a second element (5) that can be fixed to the frame (35) of the motor unit (3) and comprising: second coupling means (51, 52) which comprise a clamping unit and are able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42), to allow the connection of the wheelchair (2) to the motor unit (3); controlling means (6) able to activate the clamping unit of the second coupling means (51, 52) while opening and/or closing to allow the release and/or engagement with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the detachment of the wheelchair (2) from the motor unit (3).

Description

TITLE
DEVICE FOR THE RAPID CONNECTION OF A WHEELCHAIR TO A MOTOR UNIT
Technical field
The present invention refers to the technical field of wheelchairs for disabled and/or invalids, with particular reference to the devices for the rapid connection of said wheelchairs to the corresponding motor units .
Prior art
Said types of wheelchairs comprise basically a supporting frame; a seat fixed to the frame and able to support a seated person; a couple of posterior wheels connected to the frame, that can be activated manually by the person on the seat; a couple of anterior wheels connected to the frame for allowing the stable support of the wheelchair on the ground; potential stopping devices preferably acting on the posterior wheels.
Posterior wheels are normally of considerably superior sizes compared to the anterior wheels, to guarantee an optimal motion.
To facilitate the motion of said wheelchairs on medium/long paths, motor units are generally used, allowing to transform wheelchairs into a sort of three- wheels vehicles.
Motor units can be both with manual activation and with electrical activation.
In this last case, motor units comprise:
- a supporting frame;
- a sleeve steering wheel connected to the frame; - a handlebar fixed to the sleeve;
- a fork fixed to the sleeve and able to support rotatably a driving wheel;
- an electrical motor, connected to the frame, which activates the electrical motor;
- a battery, connected to the frame, which feeds the electrical motor;
- braking means activatable by the handlebar and acting on a braking plate fixed to the wheel;
a device, fixed to the frame, for the rapid connection to a wheelchair.
The rapid connection device is usually placed beneath the disabled' s legs.
According to known ways, such a device for the rapid connection of the motor unit to the wheelchair comprises a plurality of pivots which can engage and/or release corresponding holes and fixing means of the threaded type.
To allow the connection and/or the detachment of the wheelchair to/from the motor unit, it is necessary to act on one or more pivots engaging/releasing the respective holes and acting on clamping nuts which couple/uncouple with/from the threaded ends of the pivots.
Said rapid connections, placed beneath the disabled and/or invalid's legs, entails an extremely difficult and complex activation.
In the case of disabled suffering from serious forms of paraplegia and quadriplegia, such a type of rapid connection is totally useless.
It is also known the publication US2006/000664 wherein a device for the connection is dealt, formed by a posterior part which is connected movably to the wheelchair and an anterior part having a rotatable arm which can be engaged to the posterior part of the device by means of a clamping system. Moreover, such an arm is equipped with a sleeve which can engage with a pivot integral to the motor unit. It is necessary to drive said arm to achieve the connection, in such a manner so as to insert the pivot inside the sleeve and then to rotate the arm towards the locking position by means of the clamping system which engages with the posterior part of the device. In this way, the motor unit is pulled towards the wheelchair and fastened to it.
It is obvious that such a solution requires a lot of precision, as the motor unit has to be maneuvered in such a manner that the pivot inserts itself inside the sleeve and then to proceed to the locking. Such an operation is not easily achievable, above all for disabled people with extremely limited mobility of limbs and arms.
It is also known the publication EP0128448 which corresponds to the preamble of claim 1.
In this case, there are a box-shaped element equipped with a cavity and integral to an arm of the frame of the motor unit and a pivot integral to the wheelchair. It is necessary to place said arm of the motor unit above the vertical of the pivot and then to proceed with the lowering of the box-shaped element onto the pivot, in such a manner that the pivot penetrates into the cavity. At this point, a sliding septum which fastens the pivot inside the cavity can be moved, thus avoiding its detachment and achieving the connection between the motor unit and the wheelchair.
This solution has the same aforementioned technical inconveniences too. In fact, also for this case, it is necessary to place carefully the box-shaped element above the pivot, as a wrong positioning would lead to a missed insertion of the pivot inside the cavity. Therefore, also for this case, the user has to maneuver the motor unit in order to place it correctly on the vertical of the pivot. This operation is not simple, especially whether it has to be made by a disabled person with extremely limited mobility of limbs and arms. Disclosure of the invention
It is therefore the aim of the present invention to solve said inconveniences by proposing a device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit, which is able to facilitate and accelerate the coupling and uncoupling phases.
A further aim of the present invention is to provide a device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit, that can easily be used also by disabled suffering from paraplegia and quadriplegia.
Another aim of the present invention is to provide a device allowing a connection between motor unit and wheelchair that does not require precision first to position and then to put the wheelchair near the motor unit, thus making the coupling operation easy and practically mechanical.
The aforementioned aims are therefore obtained through a device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3), according to claim 1.
Said device comprises:
- A first element (4) configured for being fixed in use to the wheelchair (2) and comprising first coupling means (41, 42);
- A second element (5) , detached from the first element (4) and configured for being fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit (3) in such a manner so as to allow a connection between the wheelchair and the motor unit trough the approach and the subsequent engagement of the first element (4) fixed to the wheelchair with the second element (5) fixed to the motor unit, the second element (5) comprising:
Second coupling means (51, 52) comprising a clamping unit and able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42) to allow the connection of the wheelchair (2) to the motor unit (3);
- Controlling means (6) able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means (51, 52) to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the unfastening of the wheelchair (2) from the motor unit (3).
According to the invention, the first element (4) comprises a unit (45) for the fastening to a tubular element (20) of the wheelchair (2) and a first plate (40) fixed to the fastening unit (45) and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2), and wherein the first coupling means comprise a couple of parallel pivots which stand orthogonally from the first plate (40). The second element (5) comprises a second plate (50) fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2). The second coupling means comprise a recess (51) shaped in the peripheral part of the second plate (50) able to accommodate a first pivot (41) of the first coupling means and with the clamping unit (52) of the second coupling means which comprises a fixed clamp defined by a peripheral part of the second plate (50) and a movable clamp (520), determined by an end of a third plate (55), articulated to the second plate (50) and with the second pivot which is placed in correspondence of said clamping unit when the first pivot is inside the narrowing (51) and with such a movable clamp (520) activated in opening and/or closing by the controlling means (6) to allow the release and/or engagement of the clamping unit (52) with the second pivot (42) of the first coupling means.
In this way, the aforementioned technical inconveniences are easily solved.
In particular, now, thanks to the two pivots (41,
42), the recess (51) and the clamping unit, it is enough to put close each other the wheelchair and the motor unit or vice versa, to obtain an engagement between the two parts without the necessity of a careful approaching. The first (4) and the second element (5) are separated elements which are fixed in use to the wheelchair and to the motor unit, therefore it is enough to place them to the right height to obtain a simple and rapid connection as the wheelchair is put close to the motor unit or vice versa. Moreover, such a device can be adapted to any motor unit or wheelchair.
Obviously, the application of the first element to the motor unit and the second element to the wheelchair in opposite way is a clear and obvious equivalent solution that is obviously possible.
Advantageously, first elastic means are comprised, arranged to maintain the clamping unit in closed position C; the clamps of the clamping unit are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot of the first coupling means is able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit in contrast to the first elastic means arranged to maintain the clamp in closed position and with the second pivot which engages firmly with the clamping unit, facilitated by said first elastic means, to allow the connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit.
In this way, a snap connection takes place, by simply pushing, for example with the own weight, on the second pivot once it is driven to the position in correspondence of the clamping unit, thanks to the position occupied by the first pivot inside the cavity.
According to particular embodiments, the proposed device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit, comprises further one or more of the following characteristics, considered singularly or combined:
The peripheral part of the second plate which determines the fixed clamp has a concave shape and the end of the third plate which determines the movable clamp is hook-shaped;
The controlling means comprise a control lever articulated to the second plate and manually activatable, and first transmitting means connected to the control lever and able to act on the third plate to allow the activation of the movable clamp while opening and/or closing;
Moreover, the controlling means comprise first elastic means fixed to the second plate and acting on the third plate to maintain the movable clamp of the clamping unit in closed configuration; with the activation of the control lever which obstructs the action of the first elastic means to bring the movable clamp of the clamping unit in opened configuration, and to allow the release of the clamping unit with the second pivot of the first coupling means;
The clamps of the clamping unit are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot of the first coupling means is able to: insert itself between the clamps of the clamping means in contrast with the first elastic means, and engage with the clamping unit, facilitated by the first elastic means, to allow the connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit;
The first transmitting means comprise second elastic means acting on the third plate, m contrast with the first elastic means, in such a manner so as to allow a gradual action of the movable clamp of the clamping unit in the transition from the closed configuration to the opened configuration, wherein the detachment of the wheelchair from the motor unit is allowed;
The controlling means comprise a control element placed on the motor unit, preferably in correspondence of the handlebar, and second transmitting means which connects the control element to the clamping unit to allow the activation of the clamping unit while opening and/or closing;
The system for the rapid connection of a wheelchair for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit, comprising a couple of devices placed bilaterally to the wheelchair .
Brief description of drawings
Further features and advantages of the device, according to the invention, will result to be clearer with the description that follows of some embodiments, made to illustrate but not to limit, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:
Figures 1, 1A show both lateral and perspectival views of a wheelchair and a motor unit in uncoupled configuration;
Figures 2, 2A show corresponding lateral and perspectival views of a wheelchair and a motor unit in coupled configuration;
- Figures 3, 4, 5 represent also lateral views of the proposed device of rapid connection in a sequence of operating phases;
Figure 3A, 4A, 5A show the related perspectival views of the proposed device of rapid connection in the corresponding sequence of operating phases shown in figure 3, 4, 5.
Description of a preferred embodiment
With reference to the aforementioned charts, it is suitable to indicate with the general reference 1 the proposed device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair 2 for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit 3.
In innovative way, such a device 1 of rapid connection comprises:
A first element 4 fixable to the wheelchair 2 and comprising first coupling means (41, 42);
A second element 5 fixable to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3 and comprising:
· second coupling means (51, 52) comprising a clamping unit and able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42) to allow the connection of the wheelchair 2 to the motor unit 3;
• controlling means (6) able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means (51, 52) to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the unfastening of the wheelchair 2 from the motor unit 3.
According to a preferred embodiment, shown in the attached drawings, the first element 4 can comprise a fastening unit 45 for the fastening to a tubular element 20 of the wheelchair 2, and a first plate 40 fixed to the fastening unit 45 and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair 2.
The first coupling means comprise a couple of parallel pivots (41, 42) which stand orthogonally from the first plate 40.
The second element 5 can comprise a second plate 50 fixable to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3 and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair 2.
The second coupling means can comprise a recess 51, shaped in the peripheral part of the second plate 50, able to house a first pivot 41 of the first coupling means.
The clamping unit 52 of the second coupling means comprises advantageously a fixed clamp, determined by a second peripheral part of the second plate 50 and a movable clamp 520 determined by an end of a third plate 55 articulated to the second plate 50.
According to a preferred embodiment, shown in the drawings too, the second peripheral part of the second plate 50 which determines the fixed clamp has a concave shape, as well as the end of the third plate 55 which determines the movable clamp 520 is hook-shaped.
Such a movable clamp 520 is activated in opening and/or closing by the controlling means 6 to allow the release and/or engagement of the clamping unit 52 with the second pivot 42 of the first coupling means.
According to a preferred embodiment of the controlling means 6, shown in the drawings, they comprise a control lever 60 articulated to the second plate 50 and manually activatable, and first transmitting means 61 connected to the control lever 60 and able to act on the third plate 55 to allow the activation of the movable clamp 520 in opening and/or closing.
Moreover, the controlling means 6 can further comprise a first elastic spring 62 fixed to the second plate 50 and acting on the third plate 55 to maintain the movable clamp 520 of the clamping unit 52 in closed configuration C (Figures 3, 4, 3A, 4A) .
Consequently, the activation of the control lever 60, in contrast with the elastic reaction of the first spring 62, leads the movable clamp 520 of the clamping unit 52 in opened configuration A to allow the release of the clamping unit 52 with the second pivot 42 of the first coupling means (Figures 5, 5A) .
According to a preferred embodiment, the clamps of the clamping unit 52 are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration C of the clamping unit 52, the second pivot 42 of the first coupling means is able to:
insert itself between the clamps of the clamping means 52 in contrast with the first elastic means 62 (Figures 3, 3A) , and also:
engage with the clamping unit 52, facilitated by the first elastic means 62 (Figures 4, 4A) , to allow the connection of the wheelchair 2 to the motor unit 3.
According to a preferred embodiment, shown in the drawings, the first transmitting means 61 comprise a second elastic spring 63 acting on the third plate 55, in contrast with the first elastic spring 62, in such a manner so as to allow a gradual action of the movable clamp 520 of the clamping unit 52 in the transition from the closed configuration C to the opened configuration A, wherein the detachment of the wheelchair 2 from the motor unit 3 is allowed (Figure 5, 5A) .
The above-described controlling means shown in the drawings, wherein the control lever 60 is articulated to the second plate 50, represent only an exemplifying embodiment .
According to a further embodiment, not shown in the drawings, the controlling means 6 can comprise alternatively:
- a control element placed on the motor unit 3, preferably in correspondence of the handlebar 30, and
second transmitting means which connects the control element to the clamping unit 52 to allow the activation of the clamping unit 52 in opening and/or closing .
The proposed system for the rapid connection of a wheelchair 2 for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit 3, comprises only as an example a couple of devices 1 placed bilaterally to the wheelchair 2 (Figures 1, 2, 1A, 2A) .
It is implied that the advantages of the invention can be benefited also from the use of only one device 1 for the rapid connection.
The second plate 50 can be advantageously produced with two parts articulated each other, whose related configuration can be determined through adjusting means 7, preferably comprising through holes that can be engaged by correspondent stabilization pivots.
In that way, the proposed device 1 of rapid connection is able to adapt to the different types of wheelchairs on the market.
In figures from 3 to 5 a sequence of operating configuration of the proposed device 1 of rapid connection has been represented in the phases of connection/detachment of the wheelchair 2 to/from the motor unit 3.
In particular, figures 3, 3A show a configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, is detached from the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
In that case, the control lever 60 is raised and the clamping unit 52 is in closed configuration C facilitated by the first spring 62, with the pivots (41, 42) fixed to the first plate 40 which are released from the first recess 51 of the second plate 50 and from the clamping unit 52.
Therefore, in figures 3 and 3A, the wheelchair 2 is detached or uncoupled from the motor unit 3. With reference to figures 4, 4A, they show a configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, is coupled to the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
In that case too, the control lever 60 is raised and the clamping unit 52 is in closed configuration C, facilitated by the first spring 62.
Contrary to the previous configuration (Figures 3A, 4A) , the first pivot 41 is housed in the recess 51 of the second plate 50 and the second pivot 42 is first inserted between the clamps of the clamping unit 52, in contrast with the first spring 62, and then is engaged firmly with the clamping unit 52, facilitated by the first spring 62.
Therefore, in figures 4 and 4A, the wheelchair 2 is connected, or coupled, to the motor unit 3 and the first plate 40 of the first element 4 contacts the second plate 50 of the second element 5.
Regarding figures 5, 5A, they show an intermediate configuration wherein the first element 4, fixed to the wheelchair 2, can detach from the second element 5, fixed to the frame 35 of the motor unit 3.
Contrary to the previous configuration (figures 3, 4, 3A, 4A) , the control lever 60 is lowered and the clamping unit 52 is in opened configuration A, in contrast with the elastic reaction of the first spring 62.
As in the previous configuration of connection of the wheelchair 2 to the motor unit 3, the first plate 40 contacts the second plate 50, the first pivot 41 is still housed in the recess 51 and the second pivot 42 is released from the clamps of the clamping unit 52, from which it can exit, as well as the first pivot can exit from the recess 51.
While the first pivot 41 exits from the recess 51, the first pivot 41 itself intercepts the control lever 60 by bringing it back to the raised position and by forcing the transition of the clamping unit 52 from the opened configuration A to the closed configuration (Figures 3, 3A) .
According to what has been described above, it is clear that the proposed device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit is perfectly able to facilitate and accelerate the coupling/uncoupling phases.
It is possible thanks to the configuration of controlling means able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means and the consequent detachment, or unfastening, of the wheelchair from the motor unit.
Moreover, a quality of the invention is that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot is first able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit, in contrast with the first elastic spring, and then it engages firmly with the clamping unit, facilitated by the first elastic spring, thus allowing a simple and easy connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit.
Consequently, the device of rapid connection object of the invention can be easily used also by disabled suffering from quadriplegia or suffering from severe forms of paraplegia.
The coupling and uncoupling phases are extremely simple and rapid, as, in the embodiment shown in the attached drawings, it is necessary to act on the control lever only to allow the detachment of the wheelchair from the motor unit, while, regarding the connection, it takes place automatically, as the second pivot, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, is able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit, in contrast with the first elastic spring, without requiring the intervention of the control lever.
Therefore, in the coupling phase, it is enough to bring the wheelchair close to the motor unit, in such a manner that the first pivot can be driven from the shape of the second plate 50 to the cavity 51. In this condition, the second pivot is already positioned on the clamping unit, therefore the user has only to maintain such a pressure to press the second pivot against the clamping unit and exceed the force of the spring, thus snap locking the pivot inside the clamp.
To detach the motor unit from the wheelchair, it is enough to act on the lever which opens the clamping unit. At this point, the clamp opens up and the second pivot is released and it can let the first pivot exit from its cavity.
Therefore, it is definitively described a locking device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3), comprising:
A first element (4) configured for being fixed in use to the wheelchair (2) and comprising at least a first pivot (41) and a second pivot (42);
A second element (5), separated from the first element (4) and configured for being fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit, said second element comprising a plate (50) having a clamping element arranged to engage with one of said two pivots, said clamping element being movable between an opened position wherein it releases the pivot and a closed position wherein it can engage the pivot;
Elastic means arranged in such a manner so as to maintain the clamping element in a closed position;
Said plate being shaped along at least a part of its perimeter in such a manner so as to form at least a guide which drives the first pivot inside a cavity (51) and such that, in said position wherein the first pivot is placed inside the cavity, the second pivot is in correspondence of the clamping element and with the clamping element shaped in such a manner that, following a thrust on the pivot which exceeds the elastic force maintaining the clamping element in closed position, the second pivot engages snapping with the clamping element;
and wherein a lever (60) is foreseen, articulated with the clamping element in such a manner that an activation of said lever leads the clamping element to the opened position, thus allowing to release said second pivot and allowing the detachment between the wheelchair and the motor unit.

Claims

A device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair (2) for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit (3), comprising :
- A first element (4) configured for being fixed in use to the wheelchair (2) and comprising first coupling means (41, 42);
- A second element (5), separated from the first element (4) and configured for being fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit (3) in such a manner so as to allow a connection between the wheelchair and the motor unit trough the approach and the subsequent engagement of the first element (4) fixed to the wheelchair with the second element (5) fixed to the motor unit, the second element (5) comprising:
- Second coupling means (51, 52) comprising a clamping unit and able to engage with the first coupling means (41, 42) to allow the connection of the wheelchair (2) to the motor unit (3) ;
- Controlling means (6) able to activate in opening and/or closing the clamping unit of second coupling means (51, 52) to allow the release and/or engagement from/with the first coupling means (41, 42) and the unfastening of the wheelchair (2) from the motor unit
(3) ;
Characterized by the fact that the first element
(4) comprises a unit (45) for the fastening to a tubular element (20) of the wheelchair (2) and a first plate (40) fixed to the fastening unit (45) and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2), and wherein the first coupling means comprise a couple of parallel pivots (41, 42) which stand orthogonally from the first plate (40) and wherein the second element (5) comprises a second plate (50) fixed in use to the frame (35) of the motor unit and placed in parallel to the direction of forward motion W of the wheelchair (2) and wherein the second coupling means comprise a recess (51) shaped in the peripheral part of the second plate (50) able to accommodate a first pivot (41) of the first coupling means and with the clamping unit (52) of the second coupling means which comprises a fixed clamp, defined by a peripheral part of the second plate (50) and a movable clamp (520) , defined by an end of a third plate (55), articulated to the second plate (50) and with the second pivot which is placed in correspondence of said clamping unit when the first pivot is inside the recess (51) and with such a movable clamp (520) activated in opening and/or closing by the controlling means (6) to allow the release and/or engagement of the clamping unit (52) with the second pivot (42) of the first coupling means .
The device, according to claim 1, wherein the clamps of the clamping unit are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration of the clamping unit, the second pivot of the first coupling means is able to insert itself between the clamps of the clamping unit, in opposition to the first elastic means arranged to maintain the clamp in closed position and with the second pivot which engages firmly with the clamping unit, facilitated by said first elastic means, to allow the connection of the wheelchair to the motor unit .
The device, according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the peripheral part of the second plate (50) which determines the fixed clamp has a concave shape, with the end of the third plate (55) which determines the movable clamp (520) which is hook-shaped.
The device, as per one or more of the previous claims, wherein the controlling means (6) comprise: a control lever (60) articulated to the second plate (50) and manually activatable; first transmitting means (61) connected to the control lever (60) and able to act on the third plate (55) to allow the activation of the movable clamp (520) in opening and/or closing.
The device, according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein controlling means (6) comprise first elastic means (62) fixed to the second plate (50) and acting on the third plate (55) to maintain the movable clamp (520) of the clamping unit (52) in closed configuration C; with the activation of the control lever (60) which obstructs the action of the first elastic means (62) to bring the movable clamp (520) of the clamping unit (52) in opened configuration A, and to allow the release of the clamping unit (52) with the second pivot (42) of the first coupling means.
The device, according one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the clamps of the clamping unit (52) are shaped in such a manner that, in the closed configuration C of the clamping unit (52), the second pivot (42) of the first coupling means is able to:
insert itself between the clamps of the clamping means (52) in opposition with the first elastic means ( 62 ) , and:
engage with the clamping unit (52), facilitated by the first elastic means (62), to allow the connection of the wheelchair (2) to the motor unit (3) .
The device, according one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the first transmitting means (61) comprise second elastic means (63) acting on the third plate (55), in contrast with the first elastic means (62), in such a manner so as to allow a gradual action of the movable clamp (520) of the clamping unit (52) in the transition from the closed configuration C to the opened configuration A, wherein the detachment of the wheelchair (2) from the motor unit (3) is allowed.
8. The device, according one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the controlling means (6) comprise a control element placed on the motor unit (3), preferably in correspondence of the handlebar (30) , and second transmitting means which connects the control element to the clamping unit (52) to allow the activation of the clamping unit (52) in opening and/or closing.
9. A system for the rapid connection of a wheelchair for disabled and/or invalids to a motor unit, comprising a couple of devices (1) placed bilaterally to the wheelchair (2) and produced according to any of the preceding claims.
10. A wheelchair and a motor unit comprising at least a device according to one or more of the preceding claims from 1 to 8.
PCT/IB2017/051463 2016-03-15 2017-03-14 Device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit WO2017158504A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ITUA2016A001666A ITUA20161666A1 (en) 2016-03-15 2016-03-15 DEVICE FOR THE QUICK ATTACK OF A BODYWORK TO A DRIVE UNIT
IT102016000026889 2016-03-15

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2017158504A1 true WO2017158504A1 (en) 2017-09-21

Family

ID=56203712

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2017/051463 WO2017158504A1 (en) 2016-03-15 2017-03-14 Device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit

Country Status (2)

Country Link
IT (1) ITUA20161666A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2017158504A1 (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102018122366A1 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-03-19 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
DE102018122360A1 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-03-19 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
JP2020188864A (en) * 2019-05-20 2020-11-26 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Electric unit fitted to wheelchair
US11865054B1 (en) 2020-02-18 2024-01-09 Stephen C Golden, Jr. Wheelchair mount apparatus

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0128448A2 (en) * 1983-06-13 1984-12-19 Mobility Manufacturing Co. Detachable steerable power unit for occupant-propelled wheelchairs
US5125468A (en) * 1989-06-02 1992-06-30 Coker Theodore R Electric control for wheelchair drive unit
US20060000664A1 (en) * 2004-07-02 2006-01-05 Chao-Kuo Huang Motorized apparatus for towing a wheelchair

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0128448A2 (en) * 1983-06-13 1984-12-19 Mobility Manufacturing Co. Detachable steerable power unit for occupant-propelled wheelchairs
US5125468A (en) * 1989-06-02 1992-06-30 Coker Theodore R Electric control for wheelchair drive unit
US20060000664A1 (en) * 2004-07-02 2006-01-05 Chao-Kuo Huang Motorized apparatus for towing a wheelchair

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102018122366A1 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-03-19 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
DE102018122360A1 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-03-19 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
US20200085652A1 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-03-19 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
EP3622930A3 (en) * 2018-09-13 2020-07-22 Alber GmbH Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
US11576830B2 (en) 2018-09-13 2023-02-14 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
US11642256B2 (en) 2018-09-13 2023-05-09 Alber Gmbh Auxiliary drive device for a wheelchair
JP2020188864A (en) * 2019-05-20 2020-11-26 トヨタ自動車株式会社 Electric unit fitted to wheelchair
US11865054B1 (en) 2020-02-18 2024-01-09 Stephen C Golden, Jr. Wheelchair mount apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ITUA20161666A1 (en) 2017-09-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2017158504A1 (en) Device for the rapid connection of a wheelchair to a motor unit
KR101742247B1 (en) Auxiliary drives for wheelchairs
CN100518704C (en) Manually-propelled vehicle and control components thereof
JP3550095B2 (en) Wheelchair transmission
US6296261B1 (en) Brake assisted steering system for a wheeled bed
US5332184A (en) Pole clamp assembly and a method of its use
EP0036293B1 (en) A motor vehicle having a vehicle entry system for invalids
US8650735B2 (en) Wheelchair docking system
CN105105934A (en) Multifunctional separating power-assisted wheelchair
US20070289787A1 (en) Wheelchair transporter
KR101972799B1 (en) Attachable wheelchair assistive device that applies the self-energizing effect
US4961473A (en) Kit for converting a hand-powered wheelchair to an electric motor-power wheelchair
US20210024113A1 (en) Connector for releasably coupling two wheeled-carts
US10893994B2 (en) Apparatus for assisting toilet user in standing up
WO2006025040A1 (en) Apparatus for assisting a person between a substantially standing posture and a seated posture
GB2528987A (en) A Motorised Skate for a Vehicle
US4995628A (en) Standing frame assembly for use with wheelchair
US5529427A (en) Wheelchair coupler apparatus
US11485398B2 (en) Stroller frame and stroller
CN109316270B (en) Special button fastening device for both-hand disabled people
KR20170101398A (en) A wheelchair equipped with a detachable driving device
EP3409256B1 (en) Locking mechanism of an armrest assembly for a wheelchair and a wheelchair comprising the same
WO2011004178A1 (en) Braking system for transportation device
US20180318157A1 (en) Adaptive Attachment Wheel for Wheelchairs
CN113271906B (en) Device and method for reversibly connecting a rehabilitation device to a bed, and method for operating a rehabilitation device connected to a bed

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 17719331

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 17719331

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1