thiruttu us009980863b2 tullultuutturus 9 , 980 , 863 b2 page 2 the first and second braces are...

THIRUTTU TULLULTUUTTUR US009980863B2

( 12 ) United States Patent Hansen et al .

( 10 ) Patent No . : US 9 , 980 , 863 B2 ( 45 ) Date of Patent : May 29 , 2018

( 54 ) COLLAPSIBLE MANUAL WHEELCHAIR SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED PROPULSION AND TRANSFERS

( 52 ) U . S . CI . CPC . . . . . . . . . . . . . A616 5 / 023 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; A61G 5 / 026

( 2013 . 01 ) ; A616 5 / 0825 ( 2016 . 11 ) ; A616 5 / 0875 ( 2016 . 11 ) ; A61G 5 / 1054 ( 2016 . 11 )

8 ) Field of Classification Search CPC . . . A616 5 / 0875 ; A616 5 / 0883 ; A616 5 / 0891 See application file for complete search history .

( 71 ) Applicant : THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS , Washington , DC ( US ) ( 56 ) References Cited

U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS ( 72 ) Inventors : Andrew H . Hansen , Minneapolis , MN

( US ) ; Gary D . Goldish , Minneapolis , MN ( US ) ; Eric Nickel , Minneapolis , MN ( US )

2 , 946 , 602 A 3 , 901 , 527 A

7 / 1960 Lee 8 / 1975 Danziger et al .

( Continued )

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS CN

( 73 ) Assignee : THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS , Washington , DC ( US )

JP 201719455 U

2003 - 265537 A 2012 - 143519 A

1 / 2011 9 / 2003 8 / 2012 JP

OTHER PUBLICATIONS ( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer , the term of this

patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U . S . C . 154 ( b ) by 0 days . days . .

Intemational Search Report and Written Opinion for related Inter national Application No . PCT / US2014 / 022080 , dated Jun . 19 , 2014 , in 15 pages .

( 21 ) Appl . No . : 15 / 791 , 231 ( 22 ) Filed : Oct . 23 , 2017

Primary Examiner — John D Walters Assistant Examiner - James J Triggs ( 74 ) Attorney , Agent , or Firm — Procopio , Cory , Hargreaves & Savitch LLP ; Pattric J . Rawlins

( 65 ) Prior Publication Data US 2018 / 0042793 A1 Feb . 15 , 2018

Related U . S . Application Data ( 63 ) Continuation of application No . 15 / 269 , 794 , filed on

Sep . 19 , 2016 , now Pat . No . 9 , 795 , 522 , and a ( Continued )

( 57 ) ABSTRACT A manual wheelchair including a collapsible frame having a first lateral member that is connected to first and second braces at their respective first ends . A drive wheel axle extends along a first axis of rotation and engages a drive wheel , the first brace , and a portion of a transmission . A push rim axle extends along a second axis of rotation and engages a push rim wheel , the second brace , and a portion of the transmission , which transmits rotation of the push rim to rotation of the drive wheel . The collapsible frame addition ally includes a second lateral member that is connected to the first and second braces as their respective second ends .

( Continued )

( 51 ) Int . CI . A61G 5 / 02 A616 5 / 08 A61G 5 / 10

( 2006 . 01 ) ( 2006 . 01 ) ( 2006 . 01 )

, 4444 -

4

- * * * +

215 - 400 +

+

-

- 460 . . +

-

-

-

-

+

- 483 % 460

im -

+

H

235 -

20 * * * * * AL - - - 418 483 $ 50 440

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

The first and second braces are configured to release the second lateral member to collapse the manual wheelchair .

20 Claims , 39 Drawing Sheets

filed as appow Pat . No . No . 1

Related U . S . Application Data continuation - in - part of application No . 14 / 776 , 642 , filed as application No . PCT / US2014 / 022080 on Mar . 7 , 2014 , now Pat . No . 9 , 445 , 958 , which is a contin uation of application No . 13 / 827 , 840 , filed on Mar . 14 , 2013 , now Pat . No . 8 , 905 , 421 .

( 60 ) Provisional application No . 62 / 385 , 183 , filed on Sep . 8 , 2016 .

4 , 155 , 588 A 5 / 1979 Danziger et al . 4 , 422 , 660 A 12 / 1983 Costello et al . 4 , 625 , 984 A 12 / 1986 Kitrell 4 , 732 , 402 A 3 / 1988 Lambert 5 , 482 , 305 A 1 / 1996 Jeffries et al . 6 , 257 , 608 B1 7 / 2001 Hanson 6 , 419 , 260 B1 7 / 2002 Kuroda 6 , 802 , 518 B2 10 / 2004 Kuntz 7 , 464 , 949 B1 12 / 2008 Downey 7 , 717 , 447 B2 5 / 2010 Orford 7 , 900 , 945 B1 3 / 2011 Rackley 8 , 905 , 421 B2 12 / 2014 Hansen et al . 9 , 398 , 990 B2 * 7 / 2016 Richter . . . . . . . . A616 5 / 04 9 , 445 , 958 B2 9 / 2016 Hansen et al . 9 , 795 , 522 B210 / 2017 Hansen et al .

2008 / 0238023 Al 10 / 2008 Bloom 2009 / 0051139 AL 2 / 2009 Kylstra et al . 2009 / 0295119 Al 12 / 2009 Bloswich et al . 2014 / 0265211 A1 * 9 / 2014 Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A61G 5 / 026

280 / 250 2016 / 0038355 A1 2 / 2016 Hansen et al . 2017 / 0007477 A1 * 1 / 2017 Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . A616 5 / 023

( 56 ) References Cited U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS

3 , 994 , 509 A 4 , 099 , 277 A

11 / 1976 Schaeffer 7 / 1978 Watkins * cited by examiner

U . S . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 1 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

whith * 100 % with *

most *

the *

the wt *

*

*

th *

most wi *

the

*

*

who won

with *

w

within w

w

w

w

w

*

*

* *

* * * *

* * *

* * *

140 V wiwoor

????????????????????? FIG . 1

( Related Art )

* * *

- mincm 210

200

FIG . 2 ( Related Art )


- -

-

tanaman FIG . 3A

( Related Art )

FIG . 3B ( Related Art )

U . S . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 3 of 39 | US 9 , 980 . 863 B2

… … … … …

435 -

- -

-

-

-

-

-

- -

- -

- -

- ??? ? -

* tte - -

-

-

: - -

-

it it it - -

-

-

- -

- -

- ! lifi -

inni 3448 … … ???? -

| 483 - - - - - - - hist _

* * * * * *

… # r . - AL

??? - … … … “

… HTML ??? ?? ??? ?

???? ????

# AST ????? ? ?? ? ???? , ??????????????????? ???????? ?????? ? ?? ?????? “ ” ???? ? ? ?4?? : ??3373??? ?????????????????????? ? ??? ”

428 ??

? | 4G 460 ??????? 483 ?? ???

???????? ?????

A : ??

“

? ? “ ? ???

? ????????? ; ???? FEATH?? “ ?????????????? ?? , ?? ??????????????? ” ???????????????? ?????????????????????? ?????????????????? ? ? ?? , ?? ????????? www .


VDrums he

. 4

.

* *

*

* V

* * * * . , *

* * * * *

15 tikete * * * *

wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww * *

* * 425 *

487 * * * * * * * * * * 440 * * * *

* * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

tefektet * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * inimi * * * * * * * * * rione * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * < < < > > # 74491 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ihn udzesse * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * weisen 460 450 ( 405

420 FIG . 4C

.

* * * * 410 * * * *

* * * * * * * * * *

ca ties * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * oping * * yos

* *

* *

* * *

W .

* * * *

* * *

480 vonfire * * * * : * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * Sitten 460 MISION * * * *

* * * *

* * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * ??????????????????? ? * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

FIG . 40


1535 home - - - - - - -

enerasi 500 - -

- - - -

- - - -

lammenwonen - - - - - - - - - - - - b 530 ooowww . OOONO - - - -

515 er 560

5109

- 540 550

520

525 525 505

FIG . 5A

570 545 580171 5 80

- 590 + 505

FIG . 5B


?

500 535 ?? -

-

- ? ? ?

-

-

? ? ? M

-

-

? ? ?? : ?? -

-

- ?

-

-

- - 530 ; -

-

515 -

-

-

- 580 +

-

mm 540 UUUUUUU

550 525 FIG . 5C

560 505 5 1

570 N .

Yuva SE wwwwwwwwwwwww

4505 580

* 505

520 590

550 525 525 FIG . 5D

atent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 7 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

500

wwwwwwwww wwwwwwwwww

7 - 009

wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww w w

-

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FIG . 6

U . S . Patent

700 770

780

May 29 , 2018

780

- 790 H - 715

790 - X

710 710 VMI

Y - 705

. 750

Sheet 8 of 39

4705

750

720 725

710 740

725 720 -

715

740

FIG . 7A

FIG . 7B

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2


086 - - -

* * * - - -

*

* *

OC6 - F FIG . 9

pa * * I simonense * *

*

. . 910 -

900

www phone w phone or ith more news on me

maar mense w

OC8 - F ons FIG . 8 ( Related Art )

.

* w

1

* peam

810 2008


1000

1

* *

* * * * *

*

- -

oor 1010

om

FIG . 10A 1000

5 -

- -

comment on -

-

- * - -

- -

FIG . 10B F


1000 P1015

??? - * *

ww . oe row -

w

- - -

* * *

in Pe the more

-

1010 FIG . 10C


1110 7100

1150 1160 1130

1170 1100

. . .

1140 1130

1120 FIG . 11A

1110

1150

1170 1170 JOV

1160

1120

FIG . 116


{ { { { } ( 11 ??

4182 - - ? - ?? . . ? ? ? ? ??? ?? - ?? -

?

???? ? ? ? - - - - ?? - . ? . ? . ? . ?

1 { ( H ) - - - - - - - -

{ 21 } ? 15

42 ) 1 2 3

8 . 2


1110 1100

well 1

1190K 1180 7190 D

1200 H 1200

1210 1184

1120 1220 120

FIG . 13


1240

1110 - 1100 1232 . . . . . . . . . : : : : :

1270

1260 1230

LUI D - - 1250

- - - -

1120

234

FIG . 14


1240 . 1240 or 1110 - 1100

S : : . . . . .

1230 * * * * *

1260 1270

* * * 1120 1234

FIG . 15


- - - - 71240

7110 1182 7100

11 11 11

li 11

1230 1180

1120 1184

> 190

FIG . 16

?? , ???? U . S . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 18 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

1240

1110 1100 1100

1270 1230 1230

1260

TOMONID 1250

1210AM 12101 *

INDON - - 1120 * * * *

1200 1234

1190 1220 FIG . 17


1240 or 1232

- 1230 1280 R 1230

1270 2803 1 - -

$ 250

1260

~ 1234

o

FIG . 18


1240

1232

1230 .

.

.

1260 1280 1250

1260 1260

1270 anno 1234

FIG . 19


77240

, 1280 1110

1100 .

.

.

- - 1230

1180 Om

II

120

1190

FIG . 20


71240 1240

1280 1110 1130 1280 .

.

1100 - -

- - 1230 1230 .

DI - 1180 JOY 1180 510

1420 LO 1140 III

1190 1904

FIG . 21 FIG . 21

nt May 29 , 2018 Sheet 23 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

1100

1110 1130

1182 1232

1150 1160

- 1182 - 1232

1170

1

LOODIT 11 11120 1140

FIG . 22


1100

1110 1130

1182 1232

- 1182 1232

Lollo TUDI

IBUNDN 1140

FIG . 23


- - 71240 1240

1280 1110 1130 . 1280 - - -

* *

- * 1100 * -

* *

_ 1230 1230

tu . .

1180 DI XOV 1180

120 11401

1190 1190 <

FIG . 24


{ 300

{ 3 } { { 3 . . . . . . . . . . .

, , , , , .

{ 5 } ??? 60

?? ? ? -

-

?? : 1

} 1234 { 2344 { 38184

??? 13 { } { 34

Q . 5


1100

UTTIILID . . .

.

- -

- -

234 V 1184 d bab 1120 1140

FIG . 26


- - - 7240 1240

; 1280 1110 1130 : 1280

- 1100 1100 - -

- 1230 1230

IIIIII . . .

1180 1180 DIN ' ' IDIR 1120 1140

1190 1190

FIG . 27

nt May 29 , 2018 Sheet 29 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

1100

1110 1130 1182 1232 1182

1232 1150

1160

1170

WIT 1120 1140 1234 1184

| 1234 1184

FIG . 28

U . S . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 30 of ? 3 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

} { } { }

. . . . . . . .

113 113 (

? 3 1 113 123 -

??

?? 34 1234

?? 13 ( 40 41

29


- 71240 1240

1285 , 1110 1130 - 12604 1285 1260 1100

. .

- - - 1230 1230 . .

- - - -

-

1180

????? ????? 1120 1140

1190 1190

FIG . 30

US . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 32 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

?9 . ( 1 ) { 2 }

- { 3 } 285

L :

+ 83

li } { { 4 }

G . ?? "


1260 1260 1100 1100

: 1285 1110 1130 1285 - - -

.

S

- -

. -

. - - - -

-

1182 1232

1182 1232 . .

- . . .

-

- -

.

-

1150 1160 * - * - * - * - * 1170 -

-

- - -

* - * - * - none -

ILIIT 1120 1140 1140 1234 1184

1234 1184

FIG . 32


| ??? } {

( 25 } 250 , * * *

{ 10 , ? 3 ] 1130 ??? 133 * *

* 28 3255 * *

*

* * * * *

*

* * 32 * * { ???

232 . .

* * - - - - - - -

123 - - - - *

Te me . .

* • -

- ? .

- -

- -

-

* *

= =

*

- - - ?? : -

* * * * *

- * *

*

* * *

: * * * * * * * * * * *

* * ? , ?? ?

* * * *

. . . . . . .

1234 1234 18 184 ?? 3 70 ??? 10

- 3 , 33

- - - . . U . S . Patent May 29 , 2018 Sheet 35 of 39 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

1110 1130

1285 1285

- - -

- 1260 1260

Inhall T ID ilIIIII II

11204 1140

FIG . 34


1110

0815 1340

1120

1330 mum

men OSZK In 1

ws - - - ww .

1 1 - - -

-

- - 00CL .

- - -

- - - -

-

-

- - - - -

- - -

-

-

- - - - -

- - OCEL

- - olzh - - - - - -

0621 - - - 17300 .

. .

. .

me - - -

1220 1310

FIG . 35


- 1110

. . . : : : : . . . .

: 9999 : : TEXTaxa # PG TI

YAXXXXXXRA . . ! * * * RIR

# NIKONOX . di . . . - - - 1280

INOX

. AIXEXERINO SFIIAGIO .

ISIS MORENO . 141 . . * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

R 1120 E .

NOVINNU . . SA . . +

# 9 . . AR &

YE # . ROR . 16 OINANSON - IS

NO . 9 . TI * XXXIXARD & O

* . . * * s ME # BeKSIA

. . . . • MIX * OEMS

VOIR * . : : :

FIG . 36

1110 : : : : : : : :

. . . . . .

- - - - - 1230 .

1270 1180 1280 :

1260

1120

1220

1300

3210 1210 FIG . 37 FIG . 37


FIG . 38

1190


1110

- - 1230

1180 1260 1340

- - -

- 1120

1330

- - - - * * * * * * V FIG . 39

1210

1110

- 1230 1180 1260 1370 . . . .

. .

1120

1360

FIG . 40 210

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

20

COLLAPSIBLE MANUAL WHEELCHAIR SUMMARY SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED PROPULSION

AND TRANSFERS Described herein is a new collapsible manual wheelchair system that decouples the push rims from the drive wheels

RELATED APPLICATIONS 5 of the wheelchair and reconnects the push rims to the drive wheels using a belt drive or chain drive transmission , thus

The present application is a continuation of U . S . patent allowing for optimal stability and better shoulder position application Ser . No . 15 / 269 , 794 filed on 19 Sep . 2016 , now ing for propulsion . The push rims are also removable or U . S . Pat . No . 9 , 795 , 522 , which claims the benefit of U . S . rotatable for easier transfers . The wheelchair can also provisional patent application No . 62 / 385 , 183 filed on 8 10 include multispeed fixed - gear hubs for easier propulsion on include multispeed fixed - gear hubs for easier propulsion on Sep . 2016 and which is a continuation - in - part of U . S . patent different terrain . The wheelchair advantageously reduces application Ser . No . 14 / 776 , 642 filed on 14 Sep . 2015 , now shoulder problems that are common in persons who use U . S . Pat . No . 9 , 445 , 958 , which is the U . S . National Stage of manual wheelchairs while maintaining optimal stability . The PCT / US2014 / 022080 filed on 7 Mar . 2014 , which claims wheelchair is also collapsible . priority to U . S . patent application Ser . No . 13 / 827 , 840 filed 15 Other features and advantages of the present invention on 14 Mar . 2013 , now U . S . Pat . No . 8 , 905 , 421 . Each of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference in its will become more readily apparent to those of ordinary skill entirety as if set forth in full . in the art after reviewing the following detailed description

and accompanying drawings . BACKGROUND

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Field of the Invention

The structure and operation of the present invention will The purpose of the invention is to provide a collapsible be understood from a review of the following detailed

wheelchair system that allows for independent positioning 25 description and the accompanying drawings in which like of the push rims and drive wheels , allowing for improved reference numerals refer to like parts and in which : stability and improved shoulder biomechanics . The FIG . 1 is a diagram illustrating an example related art approach also allows for the addition of multispeed fixed - wheelchair ; gear hubs for improved propulsion on sloped surfaces and FIG . 2 is a diagram illustrating an example related art allows for removal or repositioning of the push rims out of 30 wheelchair transfer with a transfer board ; the way for easier transfers in and out of the wheelchair . FIGS . 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating an example

related art wheelchair transfer without a transfer board ; Related Art FIGS . 4A - 4D are diagrams illustrating an example wheel chair with a push rim capable of being rotated backward and The most common form of a manual wheelchair 100 35 out of the way for transfers according to a first implemen utilizes a push rim 110 connected directly to the drive wheels

120 as shown in FIG . 1 . The wheelchair user is able to propel tation of the present application ; FIGS . 5A - 5D are diagrams illustrating an example wheel the wheelchair 100 by pushing the push rims 110 with their

hands , thereby rotating the wheel an equal angle and trans chair with a push rim capable of being removed and placed lating the chair forward . The common wheelchair is elegant 40 out of the way for transfers according to a second imple in its simplicity . However , the inherent mechanical coupling mentation of the present application ; of the push rim 110 and the wheel 120 require that they be FIG . 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example transfer placed in the same fore - aft position , which may lead to of a patient from a bed to a wheelchair according to an reduced stability of the wheelchair and / or shoulder prob - embodiment of the invention . lems . In setup of the common wheelchair , the clinician must 45 FIGS . 7A - 7B are diagrams illustrating an example wheel balance concerns of shoulder biomechanics and stability of chair with a push rim capable of being translated backward the wheelchair . On one hand , the clinician would like to and out of the way for transfers according to a third move the push rims forward to promote a better positioning implementation of the present application ; of the shoulders for propulsion . On the other hand , the axle FIG . 8 is a diagram illustrating a user ' s range of motion of the wheels 120 must remain behind the center of gravity 50 laid over a diagram of an example related art wheelchair ; 130 to reduce the likelihood the wheelchair 100 will tip over FIG . 9 is a diagram illustrating a user ' s range of motion backward . A common approach is to move the push rim / laid over a diagram of a wheelchair according to an imple wheel combination 110 / 120 as far forward as possible while mentation of the present application ; still maintaining a stable base 150 of support of the wheel - FIGS . 10A - 10C are diagrams illustrating placement of a chair by positioning the drive wheel 120 and front casters 55 push rim at different positions along a wheelchair according 140 to frame the center of gravity 130 in fore / aft directions . to an implementation of the present application ;

The positioning of the push - rim / wheel 110 / 120 combina - FIGS . 11A - 11B are front view diagrams illustrating a tion in common wheelchairs leads to difficulties in transfers collapsible wheelchair frame according to related art ; ( transferring in and out of the wheelchair 100 ) . For example , FIG . 12 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an the user must position the wheelchair at an angle with a bed 60 example drive wheel and first brace according to an imple 200 or other transfer surface in order to use a transfer board mentation of the present application ; 210 ( see FIG . 2 ) . Without a transfer board , the person must FIG . 13 is a front view diagram illustrating an example elevate their body a significant distance to clear the wheel of drive wheel connected to first brace of a wheelchair frame the wheelchair ( FIGS . 3A , 3B ) . according to an implementation of the present application ;

Therefore , what is needed is a system and method that 65 FIG . 14 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an overcomes these significant problems found in the conven - example push rim and second brace according to an imple tional systems as described above . mentation of the present application ;

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

FIG . 15 is a front view diagram illustrating an example FIG . 39 is a side view diagram illustrating first and second push rim and second brace connected to a wheelchair frame braces having variable axle position slots according to an according to an implementation of the present application ; implementation of the present application ; and

FIG . 16 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an FIG . 40 is a side view diagram illustrating first and second example drive wheel and first brace combined with an 5 braces having plural fixed axle positions according to an example push rim and second brace according to an imple - implementation of the present application . mentation of the present application ;

FIG . 17 is a front view diagram illustrating an example DETAILED DESCRIPTION drive wheel and first brace combined with an example push rim and second brace and connected to a wheelchair frame 10 Certain implementations disclosed herein provide for a

manual wheelchair that allows for optimization of stability according to an implementation of the present application ; and shoulder biomechanics for individual wheelchair users . FIG . 18 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an For example , one apparatus disclosed herein provides a

example push rim and drive chain guard and second brace wheelchair having a drive wheel rotatable about a first axis according to an implementation of the present application ; 15 of rotation , a push rim rotatable about a second axis of

FIG . 19 a front view diagram illustrating an example push rotation , which is offset from the first axis of rotation , and a rim and drive chain guard and second brace connected to a transmission coupling the push rim to the drive wheel . wheelchair frame according to an implementation of the Additionally , some implementations disclosed herein pro present application ; vide for a manual wheelchair that allows for the positioning

FIG . 20 is a front view diagram illustrating an example 20 of the push rim to allow transfer into and out of the drive wheel and first brace combined with an example push wheelchair . For example , one apparatus disclosed herein rim and drive chain guard and second brace and connected provides a wheelchair having a push rim repositioning to a wheelchair frame according to an implementation of the mechanism that allows the push rim to be rotated between a present application ; propulsion position and a transfer position .

FIGS . 21 - 23 are front view diagrams illustrating an 25 After reading this description it will become apparent to example collapsible wheelchair having first and second one skilled in the art how to implement the invention in braces that release the first lateral member according to an various alternative embodiments and alternative applica implementation of the present application ; tions . However , although various embodiments of the pres FIGS . 24 - 26 are front view diagrams illustrating an ent invention will be described herein , it is understood that

example collapsible wheelchair having first and second 30 these embodiments are presented by way of example only , braces that release the second lateral member according to and not limitation . As such , this detailed description of an implementation of the present application ; various alternative embodiments should not be construed to

FIGS . 27 - 29 are front view diagrams illustrating an limit the scope or breadth of the present invention as set example collapsible wheelchair having first and second forth in the appended claims . braces that release the first and second lateral members 35 FIGS . 4A - 4D are diagrams illustrating an example wheel according to an implementation of the present application ; chair with a push rim capable of being rotated backward and

FIG . 30 is a front view diagram illustrating an example out of the way for transfers according to a first implemen collapsible wheelchair having a drive train guard fork tation of the present application . More specifically , FIG . 4A according to an implementation of the present application ; illustrates the wheelchair with the push rim rotated forward

FIG . 31 is a front view diagram illustrating an example 40 into a propulsion position . Further , FIG . 4B illustrates an collapsible wheelchair having a drive train guard fork and a enlarged view of the push rim relocation mechanism in the single brace according to an implementation of the present propulsion position . Further , FIG . 4C illustrates the wheel application ; chair with the push rim rotated backward into a transfer

FIGS . 32 - 33 are front view diagrams illustrating an position . Further , FIG . 4D illustrates an enlarged view of the example collapsible wheelchair having first and second 45 push rim relocation mechanism in the transfer position . braces that release the first and second lateral members In this implementation , the wheelchair 400 includes a according to the implementation of FIG . 30 ; frame 405 , a rotatable push rim 410 connected to the frame

FIG . 34 is a front view diagram illustrating an example 405 and a drive wheel 420 connected to the frame 405 . The collapsible wheelchair having a removable push rim accord - wheelchair 400 may also include caster wheels 440 located ing to an implementation of the present application ; 50 in front of the drive wheel 420 . The caster wheels 440 and

FIG . 35 is an expanded side view diagram illustrating an the drive wheels 420 collectively form the base of support example drive train orientation with respect to the first brace 435 of the wheelchair . In order to provide a stable ride for and the second brace and first and second axes of rotation the user , it may be preferable that caster wheels 440 and the according to an implementation of the present application ; drive wheels be positioned such that the user ' s center of

FIG . 36 is a side view diagram illustrating an example 55 gravity 430 is located directly above the base of support 435 , drive train guard orientation with respect to first and second rather than in front of or behind the base of support 435 . lateral frame members according to an implementation of As shown in FIGS . 4A - 4D , the axis of rotation 425 of the the present application ; drive wheel 420 is offset from the axis of rotation 415 of the

FIG . 37 is a side view diagram illustrating an example push rim . Thus , instead of being directly coupled to each drive train guard orientation with respect to first and second 60 other , the push rim 410 and drive wheel 420 are connected lateral frame members and the drive train according to an by a transmission 460 . The transmission 460 may include a implementation of the present application ; drive gear / hub 450 coupled to drive wheel 420 , a push rim

FIG . 38 is a side view diagram illustrating an example gear / hub 470 coupled to the push rim 410 , and a chain or belt drive train guard orientation with respect to first and second 490 connected to the drive gear / hub 450 and the push rim lateral frame members , the drive train , the drive wheel and 65 gear / hub 470 . the push rim according to an implementation of the present Thus , de - coupling the fore - aft position of the push rims application ; 410 and drive wheels 420 may allow a clinician to place the

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2 in

drive wheels 420 in their optimal position to provide a stable As with the implementation discussed above , in this base of support 435 while still allowing the person to do implementation the wheelchair 500 includes a frame 505 , a " wheelies ” if needed ( to go over curbs and other thresholds ) . rotatable push rim 510 connected to the frame 505 and a Also , the position of the push rims 410 can be set to promote drive wheel 520 connected to the frame 505 . The wheelchair the best positioning of the wheelchair 400 user ' s shoulders . 5 500 may also include caster wheels 540 located in front of A potential aspect of this more forward positioning of the the drive wheel 520 . Again , the caster wheels 540 and the push rims 410 is a reduction in shoulder pain resulting from drive wheels 520 collectively form the base of support 535 manual propulsion of the wheelchair . In other words , de of the wheelchair . In order to provide a stable ride for the coupling of the push rims 410 and drive wheels 420 may user , it may be preferable that caster wheels 540 and the allow the clinician to place the push rims 420 in front of the 10 drive wheels be positioned such that the user ' s center of user ' s center of gravity 430 as shown in FIGS . 4A - 4D , gravity 530 is located directly above the base of support 535 , potentially improving mechanical efficiency without sacri - rather than in front of or behind the base of support 535 . ficing wheelchair stability . As shown in FIGS . 5A - 5D , the axis of rotation 525 of the

Additionally , the use of the transmission 460 with the 15 drive wheel 520 is offset from the axis of rotation 515 of the belts or chains 490 may allow the wheelchair to also push rim 510 . Thus , instead of being directly coupled to each incorporate into one or both of the drive gear / hub 450 and other , the push rim 510 and drive wheel 520 are connected the push rim gear / hub 470 a multispeed fixed - gear hub such by a transmission 560 . The transmission 560 may include a as the Sturmey - Archer S3X fixed - gear hub . In such imple - drive gear / hub 550 coupled to drive wheel 520 , a push rim mentations , the ability to switch to higher or lower speeds 20 gear / hub 570 coupled to the push rim 510 , and a chain or belt may allow the wheelchair user to go faster on smooth even 590 connected to the drive gear / hub 550 and the push rim terrain and to require less torque and forces on the shoulders gear / hub 570 . to go up inclined terrain . Again , de - coupling the fore - aft position of the push rims

Additionally , in some implementations , the wheelchair 510 and drive wheels 520 may allow a clinician to place the 400 also includes a push rim repositioning member 480 that 25 drive wheels 520 in their optimal position to provide a stable allows the push rim 410 to be repositioned to allow a user base of support 535 while still allowing the person to do to transfer into and out of wheelchair 400 without having to “ wheelies ” if needed ( to go over curbs and other thresholds ) . lift himself over the push rim as shown in FIGS . 3A and 3B Also , the position of the push rims 510 can be set to promote above . In FIGS . 4A - 4D , the repositioning member 480 is a the best positioning of the wheelchair 500 user ' s shoulders . swing arm rotatably mounted to the frame 405 and config - 30 A potential aspect of this more forward positioning of the ured to rotate about the axis of rotation 425 of the drive train . push rims 510 is a reduction in shoulder pain resulting from As shown , the push rim gear / hub 470 and push rim 410 are manual propulsion of the wheelchair . In other words , de located at a first end of the swing arm 480 and the drive coupling of the push rims 510 and drive wheels 520 may wheel gear / hub 450 is located at a second end of the swing allow the clinician to place the push rims 520 in front of the arm 480 and the belt / chain 490 extends along the length of 35 user ' s center of gravity 530 as shown in FIGS . 5A - 5D , the swing arm . As shown in FIGS . 4A and 4B , the swing arm potentially improving mechanical efficiency without sacri 480 can be rotated forward to position the push rim 410 f icing wheelchair stability . forward of a user ' s shoulders to allow the propulsion of the Again , the use of the transmission 560 with the belts or wheel chair by the user ( known as the propulsion position ) . chains 590 may allow the wheelchair to also incorporate into As shown in FIGS . 4C and 4D , the swing arm 480 can be 40 either one or both of the drive gear / hub 550 and the push rim rotated backward to position the push rim 410 behind a gear / hub 570 a multi - speed fixed - gear hub such as the user ' s shoulders to allow the user to transfer into and out of Sturmey - Archer S3X fixed - gear hub , for example . In such the wheelchair . implementations , the ability to switch to higher or lower

Additionally , in some embodiment , a locking mechanism speeds may allow the wheelchair user to go faster on smooth 483 may be provided to releasably hold the push rim 45 even terrain and to require less torque and forces on the repositioning member 480 ( swing arm ) in the propulsion shoulders to go up inclined terrain . position shown in FIGS . 4A and 4B . Further , a second Additionally , in some implementations , the wheelchair locking mechanism 487 or hard stop may also be provided 500 also includes a push rim repositioning member 580 that to releasably hold or limit the rearward rotation of the push allows the push rim 510 to be repositioned to allow a user rim repositioning member 480 ( swing arm ) in the transfer 50 to transfer into and out of wheelchair 500 without having to position shown in FIGS . 4C and 4D . lift himself over the push rim as shown in FIGS . 3A and 3B

Though various aspects of this embodiment are shown in above . In the implementation shown in FIGS . 5A - 5D , the the figures and discussed above , implementations of this repositioning member 580 is release mechanism that allows application are not limited to these aspects and alternative the push rim 510 to be disconnected from the frame 505 . For implementations are discussed below . 55 example , a quick release mechanism could be used to allow FIGS . 5A - 5D are diagrams illustrating an example wheel - the push rim 510 to be removably attached to the frame 505 .

chair with a push rim capable of being removed and placed As shown in FIGS . 5A and 5B , the release mechanism ( push out of the way for transfers according to a second imple - rim repositioning member 580 ) holds the push rim 510 mentation of the present application . More specifically , FIG . forward of a user ' s shoulders to allow propulsion of the 5A illustrates the wheelchair with the push rim attached to 60 wheelchair by the user ( known as the propulsion position ) . the wheelchair in a propulsion position . Further , FIG . 5B As shown in FIGS . 5C and 5D , the release mechanism ( push illustrates an enlarged view of the push rim relocation rim repositioning member 580 ) allows the push rim 510 to mechanism with the push rim attached in the propulsion be disconnected from the frame 505 , and once disconnected , position . Further , FIG . 5C illustrates the wheelchair with the the push rim 510 can be placed behind a user ' s shoulders to push rim disconnected from the wheelchair and repositioned 65 allow the user to transfer into and out of the wheelchair . for a transfer . Further , FIG . 5D illustrates an enlarged view Though various aspects of this embodiment are shown in of the push rim removed for a transfer . the figures and discussed above , implementations of this

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2 application are not limited to these aspects and alternative guide rail extending along the frame 705 that the push rim implementations are discussed below . 710 can be slid along . Thus , the push rim 710 may be

FIG . 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example transfer slidingly mounted to the guide rail ( push rim repositioning of a patient from a bed to a wheelchair according to an mechanism 780 ) and repositioned at different portions along embodiment of the invention . 5 the length of the guide rail ( push rim repositioning mecha By incorporating a push rim reposition member , such as nism 780 ) . As shown in FIG . 7A , the push rim 710 has been

shown in the implementations of FIGS . 4A - 4D and FIGS . slid forward along the guide rail ( push rim repositioning 5A - 5D , the wheelchair 500 can now be placed directly next mechanism 780 ) to be located forward of a user ' s shoulders to the bed 600 or other transfer surface , reducing the to allow the propulsion of the wheel chair by the user distance to transfer and also reducing the height to elevate 10 ( known as the propulsion position ) . As shown in FIG . 7B , the body since the user no longer needs to clear the wheel the push rim 710 has been slid backward along the guide rail 520 or the push rim 510 or the combination . ( push rim repositioning mechanism 780 ) to be located

FIGS . 7A - 7B are diagrams illustrating an example wheel - behind or even with a user ' s shoulders to allow the user to chair with a push rim capable of being rotated backward and transfer into and out of the wheelchair . out of the way for transfers according to a third implemen - 15 Additionally , in some implementations , a locking mecha tation of the present application . More specifically , FIG . 7A nism ( not shown ) may be provided to releasably hold the illustrates the wheelchair with the push rim to the wheelchair push rim 710 ( swing arm ) in the propulsion position located located in a propulsion position . Further , FIG . 7B illustrates in front of the user ' s shoulders as shown in FIG . 7A . Further , the wheelchair with the push rim repositioned into a transfer a second locking mechanism ( not shown ) or hard stop may position . 20 also be provided to releasably hold or limit the rearward

This implementation shown in FIGS . 7A and 7B may movement of the push rim 710 in the transfer position shown include features and elements similar to those discussed in FIG . 7B . Additionally , in some embodiments , the trans above with respect to the first and second implementations . mission of the wheel chair may also include an idler sprocket Thus redundant descriptions thereof may be omitted . As ( not shown ) , which can be used to maintain a fixed tension with the implementations discussed above , in this imple - 25 in the belt or chain 790 . mentation the wheelchair 700 includes a frame 705 , a Though various aspects of this embodiment are shown in rotatable push rim 710 connected to the frame 705 and a the figures and discussed above , implementations of this drive wheel 720 connected to the frame 705 . The wheelchair application are not limited to these aspects and alternative 700 may also include caster wheels 740 located in front of implementations are discussed below . the drive wheel 720 . 30 FIG . 8 illustrates the reachable workspace of a user ' s As shown in FIGS . 7A - 7B , the axis of rotation 725 of the wrist for different shoulder ranges of motion laid over a

drive wheel 720 is offset from the axis of rotation 715 of the diagram of an example related art wheelchair 800 and FIG . push rim . Thus , instead of being directly coupled to each 9 illustrates the reachable workspace of a user ' s wrist for other , the push rim 710 and drive wheel 720 are connected different shoulder ranges of motion laid over a diagram of a by a transmission ( not specifically labeled in FIGS . 7A and 35 wheelchair 900 according to an implementation of the 7B ; individual components labeled ) . The transmission may present application . As discussed above , a problem with include a drive gear / hub 750 coupled to drive wheel 720 , a conventional wheelchairs relates to the positioning of the push rim gear / hub 770 coupled to the push rim 710 , and a drive wheel / push rim assembly relative to the user ' s shoul chain or belt 790 connected to the drive gear / hub 750 and the ders . Rearward placement of the drive wheel / push rim push rim gear / hub 770 . 40 assembly can improve stability , but such placement can

Again , de - coupling the fore - aft position of the push rims require a user to continually reach backward with shoulder 710 and drive wheels 720 may allow a clinician to place the extension and sometimes shoulder abduction . Use of the drive wheels 720 in their optimal position to provide a stable shoulders in excessive extension and in abduction are base of support while still allowing the person to do “ wheel thought to be damaging for repeated use . Also , some users ies ” if needed to go over curbs and other thresholds ) . Also , 45 may have experienced reduced range of motion that can the position of the push rims 710 can be set to promote the limit the propulsive force that can be generated by the user . best positioning of the wheelchair 700 user ' s shoulders . A FIGS . 8 and 9 illustrate a hypothetical user ' s range of potential aspect of this more forward positioning of the push motion laid over diagrams of a related art wheelchair 800 rims 710 is a reduction in shoulder pain resulting from and a wheelchair 900 according to an implementation of the manual propulsion of the wheelchair . In other words , de - 50 present application . Specifically , in FIGS . 8 and 9 , regions coupling of the push rims 710 and drive wheels 720 may 810 , 910 represent a user with a full range of motion , regions allow the clinician to place the push rims 720 in front of the 820 , 920 represent a user with a slightly reduced range of user ' s center of gravity as shown in FIGS . 5A - 5D , poten - motion , and regions 830 , 930 represent a reduced range of tially improving mechanical efficiency without sacrificing motion . As shown in FIG . 8 , in order to achieve and wheelchair stability . 55 maximize the arc of propulsion by starting the application of

Again , the use of the transmission with the belts or chains torque at the upper surface of the push rim of the conven 790 may allow the wheelchair to also incorporate a multi tional wheel chair , the user needs to take his shoulders into speed fixed - gear hub to provide the ability to switch to large angles of extension ( i . e . into region 810 ) . However , by higher or lower speeds and thereby allow the wheelchair moving the push rims forward in an implementation accord user to go faster on smooth even terrain and to require less 60 ing to the present application , the user may be able to apply torque and forces on the shoulders to go up inclined terrain . a maximum arc of propulsion with less shoulder extension

Additionally , in some implementations , the wheelchair ( i . e . outside region 910 , and into regions 920 , 930 ) . 700 also includes a push rim repositioning member 780 that in the implementations discussed above , the push rim was allows the push rim 710 to be repositioned to allow a user shown being movable between a propulsion position and a to transfer into and out of wheelchair 700 without having to 65 transfer position . However , implementations of the present lift himself over the push rim as shown in FIGS . 3A and 3B invention need not have only two positions . Instead , a above . In FIGS . 7A - 7B , the repositioning member 580 is a wheelchair according to the present application may include

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

a push rim repositioning mechanism configured to allow Also in the illustrated embodiment , the drive wheel 1190 customizable placement of the push rim based on a user ' s ( comprising both a perimeter tire and a wheel ) rotates about specific physical dimensions and / or physical capabilities the drive wheel axis of rotation 1200 . A drive wheel axle and / or the activities that the patient is involved in . FIGS . 1210 is positioned along the drive wheel axis of rotation 10A - 10C illustrate placement of a push rim at various 5 1200 and extends through a drive wheel sprocket 1220 and positions along a wheelchair according to an implementation the drive wheel 1190 . of the present application based on a user ' s range of motion . FIG . 13 is a front view diagram illustrating an example FIG . 10A illustrates the push rim 1010 of the wheelchair drive wheel 1190 connected to first brace 1180 of a wheel 1000 in position even with the user ' s shoulders 1015 . FIG . chair frame according to an implementation of the present 10B illustrates the push rim 1010 of the wheelchair 1000 10 application . In the illustrated embodiment , the drive wheel rotated forward by 15 degrees with respect to the user ' s 1190 and the drive wheel sprocket 1220 rotate with respect shoulders 1015 . FIG . 10C illustrates the push rim 1010 of to the wheelchair frame about the drive wheel axle 1210 that the wheelchair 1000 rotated forward by 15 degrees with is positioned along the drive wheel axis of rotation 1200 . respect to the user ' s shoulders 1015 . The drive wheel axle 1210 extends through the drive wheel FIGS . 11A - 27 illustrate a collapsible implementation of 15 sprocket 1220 , the drive wheel 1190 and the first brace 1180

the present application . It should be noted that in order to in order to secure the drive wheel 1190 to the first lateral simplify the description , only one side of the collapsible frame member 1110 and the second lateral frame member wheelchair is illustrated and described . However , as will be 1120 of the wheelchair frame . The first brace upper recess understood by the skilled artisan , the collapsible wheelchair 1182 engages the first lateral frame member 1110 and the can be implemented having mirror parts and functionality on 20 first brace lower recess 1184 engages the second lateral the opposite side of the wheelchair . Alternatively , the oppo - frame member 1120 when the wheelchair is not collapsed . site side of the wheelchair may be implemented with dif FIG . 14 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an ferent parts and functionality to provide increased usability . example push rim 1240 and second brace 1230 according to For example , one side of the wheelchair may include a push an implementation of the present application . In the illus rim that rotates backward while the other side of the wheel - 25 trated embodiment , the second brace 1230 comprises a chair may include a removable push rim . All of the various second brace upper recess 1232 and a second brace lower combinations of the functionality disclosed herein are con recess 1234 . The second brace upper recess 1232 and second templated by the inventors as acceptable combinations . brace lower recess 1234 are configured to attach to the first FIGS . 11A - 11B are front view diagrams illustrating a lateral frame member 1110 and the second lateral frame

collapsible wheelchair frame according to related art . In the 30 member 1120 , respectively . In one embodiment , the second illustrated embodiment of FIG . 11A , the wheelchair frame brace lower recess 1234 is configured to release the second comprises a seat base 1100 , a first lateral frame member lateral frame member 1120 when the wheelchair is col 1110 , a second lateral frame member 1120 , a third lateral lapsed . In an alternative embodiment , the second brace frame member 1130 , a fourth lateral frame member 1140 , a upper recess 1232 is configured to release the first lateral first cross frame member 1150 and a second cross frame 35 frame member 1110 when the wheelchair is collapsed . In member 1160 . The first and second cross frame members another alternative embodiment , both of the second brace 1150 , 1160 are connected via a collapsible axis 1170 that lower recess 1234 and the second brace upper recess 1232 allows the cross frame members 1150 , 1160 to rotate with are configured to release the second lateral frame member respect to each other about the collapsible axis 1170 . 1120 and the first lateral frame member 1110 , respectively ,

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG . 11B , the wheelchair 40 when the wheelchair is collapsed . frame is collapsed by rotating the first cross frame member Also in the illustrated embodiment , the push rim 1240 1150 and the second cross frame member 1160 with respect rotates about the push rim axis of rotation 1250 . A push rim to each other about the collapsible axis 1170 resulting in a axle 1260 is positioned along the push rim axis of rotation greater distance between the first lateral frame member 1110 1250 and extends through a push rim sprocket 1270 and the and the second lateral frame member 1120 , a closer distance 45 push rim 1240 . between the first lateral frame member 1110 and the third FIG . 15 is a front view diagram illustrating an example lateral frame member 1130 and elevation of the seat base push rim 1240 and second brace 1230 connected to a 1100 . wheelchair frame according to an implementation of the

FIG . 12 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an present application . In the illustrated embodiment , the push example drive wheel 1190 and first brace 1180 according to 50 rim 1240 and the push rim sprocket 1270 rotate with respect an implementation of the present application . In the illus - to the wheelchair frame about the push rim axle 1260 that is trated embodiment , the first brace 1180 comprises a first positioned along the push rim axis of rotation 1250 . The brace upper recess 1182 and a first brace lower recess 1184 . push rim axle 1260 extends through the push rim sprocket The first brace upper recess 1182 and first brace lower recess 1270 , the push rim 1240 and the second brace 1230 in order 1184 are configured to attach to the first lateral frame 55 to secure the push rim 1240 to the first lateral frame member member 1110 and the second lateral frame member 1120 , 1110 and the second lateral frame member 1120 of the respectively . In one embodiment , the first brace lower recess wheelchair frame . The second brace upper recess 1232 1184 is configured to release the second lateral frame engages the first lateral frame member 1110 and the second member 1120 when the wheelchair is collapsed . In an brace lower recess 1234 engages the second lateral frame alternative embodiment , the first brace upper recess 1182 is 60 member 1120 when the wheelchair is not collapsed . configured to release the first lateral frame member 1110 FIG . 16 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an when the wheelchair is collapsed . In another alternative example drive wheel 1190 and first brace 1180 combined embodiment , both of the first brace lower recess 1184 and with an example push rim 1240 and second brace 1230 the first brace upper recess 1182 are configured to release the according to an implementation of the present application . second lateral frame member 1120 and the first lateral frame 65 In the illustrated embodiment , first brace upper recess 1182 member 1110 , respectively , when the wheelchair is col - and the second brace upper recess 1232 are configured to lapsed . engage the first lateral frame member 1110 and the first brace

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2 11 12

lower recess 1184 and the second brace lower recess 1234 the second lateral member 1120 of a wheelchair frame are configured to engage the second lateral frame member according to an implementation of the present application . 1120 . In the illustrated embodiment , the drive train guard 1280

FIG . 17 is a front view diagram illustrating an example is configured to engage the second brace 1230 proximal to drive wheel 1190 and first brace 1180 combined with an 5 the second brace upper recess . The drive train guard 1280 example push rim 1240 and second brace 1230 and con also includes two or more through holes to allow at least the nected to the first lateral frame member 1110 and the second push rim axle 1260 and the drive wheel axle 1210 to pass lateral frame member 1120 of a wheelchair frame according through the drive train guard 1280 . The drive train guard

1280 may or may not be configured to deliver a portion of to an implementation of the present application . In the illustrated embodiment , the drive wheel 1190 rotates with 10 the downward force that would otherwise be carried by the

second brace 1230 to the drive wheel axle 1210 . The drive respect to the wheelchair frame about the drive wheel axis wheel axle 1210 is configured to extend through holes in 1200 . The drive wheel axle 1210 extends along the drive each of the drive wheel 1190 and the drive wheel sprocket wheel axis 1200 through the drive wheel 1190 and the drive 1220 and the drive chain guard 1280 and through a hole in wheel sprocket 1220 and through a lower portion of the first 15 the first brace 1180 nd through a lower portion 01 the Trst 15 the first brace 1180 proximal to the second lateral frame brace 1180 . member 1120 when the wheelchair is not collapsed . The

Also in the illustrated embodiment , the push rim 1240 drive wheel axle 1210 thereby secures the drive wheel 1190 rotates with respect to the wheelchair frame about the push to the frame of the collapsible wheelchair . The drive chain rim axis 1250 . The push rim axle 1260 extends along the guard 1280 advantageously separates and protects the user push rim axis 1250 through the push rim 1240 and the push 20 from the moving parts of the drive train 1290 during rim sprocket 1270 and through a middle portion of the operation of the manual wheelchair . second brace 1230 . Although the illustrated embodiment shows the drive train

Also in the illustrated embodiment , first brace upper 1290 components between the push rim 1240 and the drive recess 1182 and the second brace upper recess 1232 each wheel 1190 , in an alternative embodiment , the push rim engage the first lateral frame member 1110 and the first brace 25 1240 , the drive train 1290 and the drive wheel 1190 can be lower recess 1184 and the second brace lower recess 1234 in any order . For example , in one embodiment , the push rim each engage the second lateral frame member 1120 . When 1240 is positioned on the outside and the drive wheel 1190 the first brace upper recess 1182 and the second brace upper is positioned between the push rim 1240 and the drive train recess 1232 are both engaged with the first lateral frame 1290 . It is preferred that the drive train guard 1280 separate member 1110 and the first brace lower recess 1184 and the 30 the operator from drive train 1290 and the drive wheel 1190 second brace lower recess 1234 are both engaged with the in order to protect the operator from those moving parts second lateral frame member 1120 , the wheelchair is not during operation of the manual wheelchair . collapsed . FIGS . 21 - 23 are front view diagrams illustrating an

FIG . 18 is an expanded view diagram illustrating an example collapsible wheelchair having first and second example push rim 1240 and drive chain guard 1280 and 35 braces 1180 , 1230 that release the first lateral member 1110 second brace 1230 according to an implementation of the according to an implementation of the present application . present application . In the illustrated embodiment , the drive In the illustrated embodiment , FIG . 21 shows the collapsible train guard 1280 is configured to engage a portion of the wheelchair with mirror parts on both sides of the wheelchair second brace 1230 proximal the second brace upper recess and the first and second braces 1180 , 1230 are engaged with 1232 . In one embodiment , the drive train guard 1280 is 40 the first and second lateral members 1110 , 1120 . FIG . 22 configured to engage the second brace 1230 and carry at shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first and second least a portion of the downward force that would otherwise braces 1180 , 1230 have released the first lateral member be carried by the second brace 1230 . Any force the drive 1110 and the first and second cross frame members 1150 and train guard 1280 receives from the second brace 1230 is 1160 have rotated about the collapsible axis 1170 to increase delivered to the drive wheel 1190 by way of the drive wheel 45 the distance between the first lateral frame member 1110 and axle 1210 . The push rim axle 1260 is configured to extend the second lateral frame member 1120 . FIG . 23 shows the through holes in each of the push rim 1240 and the push rim collapsible wheelchair after the first and second cross frame sprocket 1270 and the drive chain guard 1280 and through members 1150 and 1160 have rotated further about the a hole in the middle portion of the second brace 1230 to collapsible axis 1170 to place the manual wheelchair into the secure the push rim 1240 to the frame of the collapsible 50 collapsed configuration . Notably , the first brace upper recess wheelchair . The drive chain guard 1280 advantageously 1182 and the second brace upper recess 1232 are not separates and protects the user from the moving parts of the engaged with the first lateral frame member 1110 when the drive train 1290 during operation of the manual wheelchair . manual wheelchair is in the collapsed configuration as

FIG . 19 a front view diagram illustrating an example push shown . rim 1240 and drive chain guard 1280 and second brace 1230 55 FIGS . 24 - 26 are front view diagrams illustrating an connected to a wheelchair frame according to an implemen - example collapsible wheelchair having first and second tation of the present application . In the illustrated embodi - braces 1180 , 1230 that release the second lateral member ment , the push rim 1240 rotates about the push rim axis 1250 1120 according to an implementation of the present appli and is secured to the second brace 1230 via the push rim axle cation . In the illustrated embodiment , FIG . 24 shows the 1260 , which extends along the push rim axis 1250 through 60 collapsible wheelchair with mirror parts on both sides of the the push rim 1240 , the drive train guard 1280 , the push rim wheelchair and the first and second braces 1180 , 1230 are sprocket 1270 and the second brace 1230 . engaged with the first and second lateral members 1110 ,

FIG . 20 is a front view diagram illustrating an example 1120 . FIG . 25 shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first drive wheel 1190 and first brace 1180 combined with an and second braces 1180 , 1230 have released the second example push rim 1240 and drive chain guard 1280 and 65 lateral member 1120 and the first and second cross frame second brace 1230 . The first brace 1180 and the second brace members 1150 and 1160 have rotated about the collapsible 1230 are each connected to the first lateral member 1110 and axis 1170 to increase the distance between the first lateral

14 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

13 frame member 1110 and the second lateral frame member In one embodiment , the collapsible wheelchair configured 1120 . FIG . 26 shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first with a fork 1285 may eliminate one of the first or second and second cross frame members 1150 and 1160 have braces 1180 , 1230 . FIG . 31 is a front view diagram illus rotated further about the collapsible axis 1170 to place the trating an example collapsible wheelchair having a drive manual wheelchair into the collapsed configuration . Nota - 5 train guard fork 1285 and a single brace 1180 according to bly , the first brace lower recess 1184 and the second brace an implementation of the present application . lower recess 1234 are not engaged with the second lateral FIGS . 32 - 33 are front view diagrams illustrating an frame member 1120 when the manual wheelchair is in the example collapsible wheelchair having a drive train guard collapsed configuration as shown . fork 1285 and first and second braces 1180 , 1230 that release FIGS . 27 - 29 are front view diagrams illustrating an 10 the first and second lateral members 1110 , 1120 according to

example collapsible wheelchair having first and second the implementation of FIG . 30 , which shows the collapsible braces 1180 , 1230 that release the first and second lateral wheelchair with mirror parts on both sides of the wheelchair members 1110 , 1120 according to an implementation of the and the first and second braces 1180 , 1230 are engaged with present application . In the illustrated embodiment , FIG . 27 16 the first and second lateral members 1110 , 1120 . FIG . 32 shows the collapsible wheelchair with mirror parts on both shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first and second sides of the wheelchair and the first and second braces 1180 , braces 1180 , 1230 have released the first lateral member 1230 are engaged with the first and second lateral members 1110 and the second lateral member 1120 and the first and 1110 , 1120 . FIG . 28 shows the collapsible wheelchair after second cross frame members 1150 and 1160 have rotated the first and second braces 1180 , 1230 have released the first 20 about the collapsible axis 1170 to increase the distance lateral member 1110 and the second lateral member 1120 between the first lateral frame member 1110 and the second and the first and second cross frame members 1150 and 1160 lateral frame member 1120 . In FIG . 32 , it is clear that the have rotated about the collapsible axis 1170 to increase the collapsible wheelchair separates into three separate portions distance between the first lateral frame member 1110 and the after the first and second lateral members 1110 , 1120 have second lateral frame member 1120 . In FIG . 28 , it is clear that 25 been released by the first and second braces 1180 , 1230 . the collapsible wheelchair separates into three separate FIG . 33 shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first and portions after the first and second lateral members 1110 , second cross frame members 1150 and 1160 have rotated 1120 have been released by the first and second braces 1180 , further about the collapsible axis 1170 to further compress 1230 . FIG . 29 shows the collapsible wheelchair after the first the cross frame member section of the collapsible wheel and second cross frame members 1150 and 1160 have 30 chair . Notably , the first and second braces upper recesses rotated further about the collapsible axis 1170 to further 1182 , 1232 and the first and second braces lower recess compress the cross frame member section of the collapsible 1184 , 1234 are not engaged with the first and second lateral wheelchair . Notably , the first and second braces upper frame members 1110 , 1120 when the manual wheelchair is recesses 1182 , 1232 and the first and second braces lower in the collapsed configuration as shown . recess 1184 , 1234 are not engaged with the first and second 35 FIG . 34 is a front view diagram illustrating an example lateral frame members 1110 , 1120 when the manual wheel - collapsible wheelchair having a drive train guard fork 1285 chair is in the collapsed configuration as shown . and a removable push rim 1240 according to an implemen

FIG . 30 is a front view diagram illustrating an example tation of the present application . In the illustrated embodi collapsible wheelchair having a drive train guard fork 1285 ment , the push rim 1240 is removable from the collapsible according to an implementation of the present application . 40 wheelchair by disengaging the push rim axle 1260 from the In the illustrated embodiment , the fork 1285 includes an second extension of the drive train guard fork 1285 and upper section that is configured to engage the second brace sliding the push rim 1240 and push rim axle 1260 away from 1230 . The fork 1285 also includes two extensions that the wheelchair to cause the push rim axle 1260 to exit each extend down from the upper section on either side of the of the through holes in the first and second extensions of the drive wheel sprocket 1220 . A first extension of the fork 1285 45 drive train guard fork 1285 and the push rim sprocket 1270 . extends down on a first side of the drive wheel sprocket 1220 Advantageously , the entire collapsible wheelchair can be that is adjacent to the push rim 1240 . A second extension of easily separated into at least five separate parts for conve the fork 1285 extends down on a second side of the drive n ient and compact storage . wheel sprocket 1220 adjacent to the drive wheel 1190 . FIG . 35 is an expanded side view diagram illustrating an Accordingly , the first extension of the fork 1285 functions at 50 example drive train 1290 orientation with respect to the first least in part as a drive train guard and the overall fork 1285 brace 1180 and the second brace 1230 and the first and functions at least in part to translate a portion of the weight second axes 1200 , 1250 of rotation according to an imple carried by the manual wheelchair from the first later member mentation of the present application . In the illustrated 1110 to the drive wheel 1190 via the drive wheel axle 1210 . embodiment the drive train 1290 comprises the drive wheel

The second extension of the fork 1285 additionally has a 55 axle 1210 and the drive wheel sprocket 1220 , the push rim through hole aligned with the push rim axis of rotation 1250 axle 1260 and the push rim sprocket 1270 , and the chain / belt to allow the push rim axle 1260 to extend through the push 1300 . rim 1240 , the first extension of the fork 1285 , the push rim In one embodiment , the first brace 1180 comprises a first sprocket 1270 and the second extension of the fork 1285 . brace axle slot 1330 to allow the drive wheel axle 1210 to Advantageously , the push rim axle can be secured on a first 60 pass through and be secured to the first brace 1180 . The drive end to an outer surface of the push rim 1240 and can also be wheel sprocket 1220 comprises a corresponding drive wheel secure on a second end to an inner surface of the second sprocket through hole 1310 to allow the opposite end of the extension of the fork 1285 . Additionally , coupling the push drive wheel axle 1210 to pass through and be secured to the rim axle 1260 to the push rim 1240 and the fork 1285 allows drive wheel 1190 . The combination of the drive wheel the push rim 1240 to be located in a variety of positions with 65 sprocket through hole 1310 and the first brace axle slot 1330 respect to the drive wheel 1190 without interference with the allows the operator to select relative positions for the drive operation of the drive wheel 1190 . wheel sprocket 1220 and the push rim sprocket 1270 that

15 US 9 , 980 , 863 B2

16 provide optimal tension on the chain / belt 1300 during opera chair . In one embodiment , there may be three fixed position tion of the manual wheelchair . holes 1370 but in alternative embodiments there may be

FIG . 36 is a side view diagram illustrating an example more or less than three . drive train guard 1280 orientation with respect to first and Those of skill in the art will appreciate that skilled persons second lateral frame members 1110 , 1120 according to an 5 can implement the described functionality in varying ways implementation of the present application . In the illustrated for particular applications , but such implementation deci embodiment , the drive train guard 1280 is secured along a sions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from portion of the surface of the first lateral frame member 1110 the scope of the invention . Also , in the various embodiments and is also secured to the manual wheelchair by the drive described above , the improvements to the push rim and drive wheel axle 1210 and the push rim axle 1260 that each pass 10 wheels can be implements for a single side of the wheelchair through a portion of a middle section of the drive train guard or on both sides of the wheelchair . 1280 .

FIG . 37 is a side view diagram illustrating an example The above description of the disclosed embodiments is drive train guard 1280 orientation with respect to first and provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or second lateral frame members 1110 . 1120 and the drive train 15 use the invention . Various modifications to these embodi 1290 according to an implementation of the present appli ments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art , and cation . In the illustrated embodiment , the drive wheel the generic principles described herein can be applied to sprocket 1220 and the push rim sprocket 1270 are secured to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or the first brace 1180 and the second brace 1230 by way of the scope of the invention . Thus , it is to be understood that the drive wheel axle 1210 and the push rim axle 1260 . The drive 20 description and drawings presented herein represent a pres train guard 1280 advantageously separates the operator of ently preferred embodiment of the invention and are there the wheelchair from the moving parts of the drive train 1290 fore representative of the subject matter which is broadly during operation of the manual wheelchair . contemplated by the present invention . It is further under

FIG . 38 is a side view diagram illustrating an example stood that the scope of the present invention fully encom drive train guard 1280 orientation with respect to first and 25 passes other embodiments that may become obvious to those second lateral frame members 1110 , 1120 , the drive train skilled in the art and that the scope of the present invention 1290 , the drive wheel 1190 , the push rim 1240 and a is accordingly not limited . collapsible manual wheelchair according to an implemen tation of the present application . In the illustrated embodi What is claimed is : ment , the drive wheel sprocket 1220 and the push rim 30 1 . A manual wheelchair comprising : sprocket 1270 are secured to the first brace 1180 and the a collapsible frame ; second brace 1230 by way of the drive wheel axle 1210 and a drive wheel having a first axis of rotation and configured the push rim axle 1260 . The drive train guard 1280 advan to rotate relative to the frame ; tageously separates the operator of the wheelchair from the a push rim having a second axis of rotation and configured moving parts of the drive train 1290 during operation of the 35 to rotate relative to the frame , manual wheelchair . a first brace comprising a first end connected to a portion

FIG . 39 is a side view diagram illustrating first and second of the collapsible frame and a second end having a braces 1180 , 1230 having variable axle position slots 1330 , drive wheel axle through hole aligned with the first axis 1340 , respectively , according to an implementation of the of rotation , the second end further including a recess present application . In the illustrated embodiment , the vari - 40 configured to engage a portion of the collapsible frame ; able axle position slot 1330 of the first brace 1180 allows the a second brace comprising a first end connected to a operator of the manual wheelchair to select a preferred or portion of the collapsible frame and a second end optimal position for orientation of the drive wheel 1190 having a recess configured to engage a portion of the relative to the push rim 1240 . Similarly , the variable axle collapsible frame , the second brace further including a position slot 1340 of the second brace 1230 allows the 45 middle section comprising a push rim axle through hole operator of the manual wheelchair to select a preferred or aligned with the second axis of rotation ; optimal position for orientation of the push rim 1240 relative a drive train configured to transmit rotation of the push to the drive wheel 1190 . For example , during operation of rim to rotation of the drive wheel ; the manual wheelchair , the operator may select the relative wherein the second end of the first brace and the second positions to provide optimal tension on the chain / belt 1300 50 end of the second brace are each configured to release for ease of propulsion . Alternatively , the operator may also the collapsible frame to collapse the wheelchair . select the relative positions to provide ease of ingress / egress 2 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein a drive to / from the manual wheelchair . wheel axle extends along the first axis of rotation and

FIG . 40 is a side view diagram illustrating first and second engages the drive wheel , the first brace , and a portion of the braces 1180 , 1230 having plural fixed axle positions 1360 , 55 drive train . 1370 , respectively , according to an implementation of the 3 . The manual wheelchair of claim 2 , wherein the drive present application . In the illustrated embodiment , the first wheel axle additionally engages a guard . brace 1180 comprises a plurality of fixed position holes 1360 4 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein a push rim through which the drive wheel axle 1210 may be passed to axel extends along the second axis of rotation and engages secure the drive wheel 1190 to the first brace 1180 and thus 60 the push rim , the second brace , and a portion of the drive the frame of the manual wheelchair . In one embodiment , train . there may be three fixed position holes 1360 but in alterna - 5 . The manual wheelchair of claim 4 , wherein the push tive embodiments there may be more or less than three . rim axle additionally engages a guard . Similarly , the second brace 1230 also comprises a plurality 6 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein of fixed position holes 1370 through which the push rim axle 65 a drive wheel axle extends along the first axis of rotation 1260 may be passed to secure the push rim 1240 to the and engages the drive wheel , the first brace , and a second brace 1230 and thus the frame of the manual wheel portion of the drive train ;

US 9 , 980 , 863 B2 18

a push rim axel extends along the second axis of rotation 14 . The manual wheelchair of claim 9 , wherein the first and engages the push rim , the second brace , and a end of the second brace comprises a second brace upper portion of the drive train ; and recess configured to engage a portion of the first lateral

the drive wheel axle and the push rim axel additionally member . engage a guard . 15 . The manual wheelchair of claim 14 , wherein the 7 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein the push second brace upper recess is configured to release the first rim is configured to be removed from the collapsible wheel chair . lateral member to collapse the wheelchair .

8 . The manual wheelchair of claim 7 , wherein the push 16 . The manual wheelchair of claim 9 , wherein the second rim axle is configured to be removed from the collapsible end of the second brace comprises a second brace lower wheelchair . recess configured to engage a portion of the second lateral

9 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein the col member . lapsible frame comprises : 17 . The manual wheelchair of claim 16 , wherein the a first lateral member ; and second brace lower recess is configured to release the second a second lateral member , wherein the first lateral member is positioned proximal to 15 15 lateral member to collapse the wheelchair .

a seat base . 18 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein the 10 . The manual wheelchair of claim 9 , wherein the first collapsible frame comprises a seat base , a plurality of lateral

end of the first brace comprises a first brace upper recess members and a plurality of cross members . configured to engage a portion of the first lateral member . 19 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein the drive

11 . The manual wheelchair of claim 10 , wherein the first 20 train comprises at least a drive wheel axel . a drive wheel brace upper recess is configured to release the first lateral sprocket , a push rim axle , a push rim sprocket , and a chain member to collapse the wheelchair . or a belt . 12 . The manual wheelchair of claim 9 , wherein the second end of the first brace comprises a first brace lower recess 20 . The manual wheelchair of claim 1 , wherein the first configured to engage a portion of the second lateral member . 25 end of the first brace and the first end of the second brace are

13 . The manual wheelchair of claim 12 , wherein the first each configured to release the collapsible frame to collapse brace lower recess is configured to release the second lateral the wheelchair . member to collapse the wheelchair . * * * * *

thiruttu us009980863b2 tullultuutturus 9 , 980 , 863 b2 page 2 the first and second braces are...

Documents