US3903513A - Wheelchair alarm system - Google Patents
Wheelchair alarm system Download PDFInfo
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- US3903513A US3903513A US489726A US48972674A US3903513A US 3903513 A US3903513 A US 3903513A US 489726 A US489726 A US 489726A US 48972674 A US48972674 A US 48972674A US 3903513 A US3903513 A US 3903513A
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- switch means
- supporting member
- main supporting
- wheelchair
- switch
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- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 4
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61G—TRANSPORT, PERSONAL CONVEYANCES, OR ACCOMMODATION SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PATIENTS OR DISABLED PERSONS; OPERATING TABLES OR CHAIRS; CHAIRS FOR DENTISTRY; FUNERAL DEVICES
- A61G5/00—Chairs or personal conveyances specially adapted for patients or disabled persons, e.g. wheelchairs
- A61G5/10—Parts, details or accessories
- A61G5/1005—Wheelchairs having brakes
- A61G5/1035—Wheelchairs having brakes manipulated by wheelchair user
-
- 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
- A61G5/1005—Wheelchairs having brakes
- A61G5/101—Wheelchairs having brakes of the parking brake type, e.g. holding the wheelchair
-
- 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
- A61G5/1005—Wheelchairs having brakes
- A61G5/1013—Wheelchairs having brakes engaging the wheel
- A61G5/1018—Wheelchairs having brakes engaging the wheel on the running surface
-
- 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
- A61G2203/00—General characteristics of devices
- A61G2203/30—General characteristics of devices characterised by sensor means
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/04—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement
- B62B5/0404—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement automatic
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/04—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement
- B62B5/0404—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement automatic
- B62B5/0409—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement automatic when user rises from seat
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
- B62B—HAND-PROPELLED VEHICLES, e.g. HAND CARTS OR PERAMBULATORS; SLEDGES
- B62B5/00—Accessories or details specially adapted for hand carts
- B62B5/04—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement
- B62B5/0485—Braking mechanisms; Locking devices against movement by braking on the running surface, e.g. the tyre
Definitions
- a wheelchair alarm system includes a frame adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat, an electrically operated alarm securely attached to the frame, a first switch securely attached to the frame and adapted to be maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat, and second and third switches securely attached to the frame and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the wheelchair brake assemblies.
- the present invention relates generally to an alarm system and more particularly to an alarm system for a wheelchair wherein the alarm will be activated if the wheelchair seat is unoccupied and if at least one of the wheelchair brakes is disengaged.
- Each brake assembly includes a brake arm which is disposed to engage the adjacent drive wheel.
- a patient leaves the wheelchair, he should first set the wheelchair brakes to thereby immobilize the chair and prevent it from sliding out from under him duringthe transfer procedure.
- patients have suffered a very high incidence of injury which occurs when the chair slips from under the patient and the patient falls to the floor. Such injuries, usually in the nature of fractured hips, etc., in aged and debilitated persons are often most grave.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,302,757 discloses an apparatus designed to solve the aforementioned problems.
- This apparatus automatically applies a specially designed brake to each wheel of a wheelchair when weight is removed from the wheelchair seat.
- This apparatus utilizes an adjustable belt, upon which the patient sits, and which is connected to two spring biased brake layers to release the brake pressure when sufficient weight is applied to the belt.
- This apparatus is complex in structure and therefore relatively costly to manufacture and difficult to install on existing wheelchairs. In addition, this apparatus makes no provision for braking the wheelchair while the wheelchair seat is occupied.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,723,968 discloses an alarm circuit for an automobile which sounds an alarm if both the parking brake is off and the drivers seat is unoccupiedv
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,055,187 and 3,748,640 show automobile alarm circuits responsive to both seat occupancy and other conditions in the vehicle, such as the condition of seat belts, headlights,
- a standard wheelchair including a seat, first and second drive wheels, and first and second drive wheel brake assemblies movable along a wheel engaging path, is provided with a frame adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat. Electrically actuated alarm means is securely attached to the frame. A first switch means is also securely attached to the frame, and is adapted to be maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat to thereby assume a first position when there is no weight on the wheelchair seat and be forced into a second position in response to a weight on the wheelchair seat.
- a second switch means is securely attached to the frame and is adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the first brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when the first brake assembly is disengaged from the first drive wheel and be forced into a second position when the first brake is applied to the first drive wheel.
- a third switch means is securely attached to the frame and is adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the second brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when the second brake assembly is disengaged from the second drive wheel and be forced into a second position when the second brake is applied to the second drive wheel.
- Conductor means are provided to electrically connect the alarm means with the first, second and third switch means so that the alarm means is actuated if the first switch means and either the second switch means or the third switch means are in the first position, indicating no weight in the wheelchair seat and the disengagement of at least one of the brake assemblies.
- An object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which will aid in the prevention of injury to wheelchair users.
- Another object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which is simple in construction and may be easily installed on existing wheelchairs.
- a further object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which will not interfere with the normal operation of the wheelchair or the wheelchair braking assemblies.
- Still another object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which is inexpensive to manufacture.
- FIG. I shows a front view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention, with the wheelchair seat shown in phantom;
- FIG. 2 shows a partial top 'view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention
- FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention
- FIG. 4 shows an end view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention and shows the wheelchair brake assembly engaging the drive wheel (shown in phantom);
- FIG. 5 shows an end view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention showing the brake assembly disengaged from the drive wheel (shown in phantom);
- FIG. 6 is a schematic of the electric circuit of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention.
- a pair of standard wheelchair brake assemblies 10 and I2 are fastened, by means of brackets 14 and 16, to structural members on the wheelchair (not shown).
- a wheelchair seat 18 and I8 is shown in phantom as being suspended from the same wheelchair structural member.
- a support means, preferably shown as a frame, generally indicated at 20, is suspended from the brackets 14 and 16 so as to be positioned beneath the wheelchair seat 18.
- the frame 20 is shown in the preferred embodiment as being suspended from the brake assemblies and 12, it is to be understood that the frame could be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat 18 in any known manner.
- the frame 20 is preferably made up of a linear main supporting, member 22, which in turn includes three overlapping members 24, 26 and 28.
- the overlapping members are preferably formed of steel angle irons which are suitably fastened, for example, by nuts and bolts 30. Additional holes 32 may be drilled in the overlapping members so as to permit an easy adjustment in the length of the frame, to thereby permit it to be readily attached to wheelchairs of varying widths.
- Auxiliary supporting members 34 and 36 are securely fastened to the linear main supporting member 22 at the ends thereof, preferably by means of nuts and bolts 38.
- the auxiliary supporting members 34 and 36 are also preferably angle irons and are mounted at right angles with respect to the linear main supporting member 22.
- An alarm means 40 is securely fastened to the center member 26, preferably by means of a bracket 42 and bolts 44.
- the alarm means 40 can be any electrically actuated self-contained alarm and is preferably a battery-powered commercially available unit selling under the tradename Powerhorn Jr. Security System. This unit has its own off-on switch 46.
- a plate 48 is securely fastened to the center supporting member 26, preferably by means of nuts and bolts 50.
- the plate includes a plurality of additional mounting holes 52 so that the position of the plate with respect to the frame 20 is adjustable.
- Securely fastened to the top of the plate 48 is a first switch means 54.
- the switch 54 is a standard microswitch having a lever 56 extending therefrom, which lever is utilized to actuate the switch 54.
- the lever 56 is maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat 18, such that when the wheelchair seat is unoccupied, the seat rises somewhat (as shown at 18') and the switch lever assumes a first position as is shown in phantom in 56.
- the switch means 54 can be utilized to sense whether or not the wheelchair seat is occupied.
- the switches 58 and 60 include levers 62 and 64, which are positioned so as to maintain contact with the brake assemblies 10 and 12, respectively. Since the operation of the switches 58 and 60 is identical, the operation of switch 58 only will be described in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5.
- the brake assembly 10 is shown disengaged from the drive wheel 66 (shown in phantom).
- the lever 62 of the switch 58 assumes a first position.
- the brake arm 68 is applied to the wheel 66 as shown in FIG. 4, the lever 62 is forced into a second position.
- the second and third switch means 58 and 60 serve to monitor the position of the brake levers l0 and 12, respectively.
- the alarm 40 and the three switches 54, 58 and 60 are electrically interconnected by suitable conductor means 70 as schematically illustrated in FIG. 6.
- the switch 54 includes a normally closed contact 72 and a normally open contact 74.
- the normally closed contact 72 corresponds to the first position of the lever 56 and thus the wiper 76 assumes contact with the normally closed contact 72 when the wheelchair seat is unoccupied.-When the wheelchair seat is occupied, the weight on the seat forces the lever 56 to assume its second position and thereby forces the wiper 76 into contact with the normally open switch contact 74. When the wiper 76 is in contact with the terminal 74, it is impossible for the alarm to sound. Thus, as long as the wheelchair seat is occupied, the alarm 40 cannot be activated.
- the switches 58 and 60 include normally closed contacts 78 and 80, respectively, normally open contacts 82 and 84, respectively, and wipers 86 and 88, respectively.
- the switch lever 62 When the brake assembly 10 is disengaged from the drive wheel 66, the switch lever 62 assumes its first position and, as a result, the wiper 86 is in contact with the normally closed switch contact 78. When the brake 68 engages the drive wheel 66 and the switch lever 62 is forced into its second position, the wiper 86 is forced into contact with the normally open terminal 82.
- the switch 54 In order for the alarm 40 to be actuated, the switch 54 must be in the closed position, indicating that the wheelchair seat is unoccupied, and either the switch 58 or' the switch 60 must also be in the closed position, indicating the brake assembly 10 or brake assembly 12 is disengaged from its respective drive wheel.
- the frame 20 can easily be mounted beneath the seat of any commercially available wheelchair without interfering with the normal operation of the wheelchair or the brake assemblies.
- a wheelchair including a seat, first and second drive wheels, and first and second drive wheel brake assembliesmovable along a wheel engaging path, the improvement comprising:
- a support means adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat
- second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said first brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said first brake assembly is disengaged from said first drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said first brake is applied to said first drive wheel;
- third switch means securely attached to the other end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said second brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said second brake assembly is disengaged from said second drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said second brake is applied to said second drive wheel;
- said support means includes a frame having a main supporting member and two auxiliary supporting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
- said frame further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
- An alarm system for a wheelchair having a seat and first and second brake assemblies comprising:
- a. support means having a main supporting member and fastening means located at the ends of said main supporting member for attaching said support means to a wheelchair
- first switch means securely attached to said support means and adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said first switch means to thereby respond to weight on said seat
- second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means so as to project beyond one end of said main supporting member, said second switch means being adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said second switch means to thereby respond to the position of said first brake assembly
- said support means further includes two auxiliary sup porting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
- said support means further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
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Abstract
A wheelchair alarm system includes a frame adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat, an electrically operated alarm securely attached to the frame, a first switch securely attached to the frame and adapted to be maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat, and second and third switches securely attached to the frame and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the wheelchair brake assemblies. The alarm and the three switches are electrically connected in such a manner that the alarm is actuated if the first switch is closed and if either the second or third switch is closed, indicating that the wheelchair seat is unoccupied and at least one of the brakes is disengaged.
Description
United States Patent Green et al.
[451 Sept. 2, 1975 WHEELCHAIR ALARM SYSTEM [76] Inventors: Ronald F. Green, 85 East Ave, New
York, NY. 10028; Royal Carpenter, 448 Beach St., Arverne, NY. 11692 [22] Filed: July 18, 1974 [21] Appl. No.: 489,726
[52] US. Cl. 340/278; 297/DlG. 4; 340/52 D [51] Int. Cl. G08B 21/00 [58] Field of Search 340/278, 279. 52 D, 69;
297/DlG. 4; 200/6l.58 R, 85 A; lilo/101.102
Primary E.\'uminerGlen R. Swann, lIl Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Harold Huberfeld 5 7] ABSTRACT A wheelchair alarm system includes a frame adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat, an electrically operated alarm securely attached to the frame, a first switch securely attached to the frame and adapted to be maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat, and second and third switches securely attached to the frame and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the wheelchair brake assemblies. The alarm and the three switches are electrically connected in such a manner that the alarm is actuated if the first switch is closed and if either the second or [56] References Cited third switch is closed, indicating that the wheelchair UNITED STATES PATENTS seat is unoccupied and at least one of the brakes is dis- 3 723 %x 3/1973 Kelly 340 52 D engagecL 10 Claims, 6 Drawing Figures F Y 72 SEAT i (NC) 70 L 7 SWITCH A 74 LARM 7s \40 80 BRAKE BRA l I I KE I 86 I SWITCH l\ ,a (NC) i s2 58 88 1-g4(NC) y 60 PATENTED 2 975 SHEET 1 BF 2 sum 2 a; 2
PATENTEU SEP 2 5 FIG. 6
WHEELCHAIR ALARM SYSTEM BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to an alarm system and more particularly to an alarm system for a wheelchair wherein the alarm will be activated if the wheelchair seat is unoccupied and if at least one of the wheelchair brakes is disengaged.
Most presently available wheelchairs are equipped with brake assemblies positioned on both sides of the chair. Each brake assembly includes a brake arm which is disposed to engage the adjacent drive wheel. When a patient leaves the wheelchair, he should first set the wheelchair brakes to thereby immobilize the chair and prevent it from sliding out from under him duringthe transfer procedure. In addition, it is most desirable that unattended wheelchairs be left with both brake assemblies engaging both drive wheels so that the chair is safely immobilized, and there will be no danger of the chair sliding out from under a patient attempting to sit in the wheelchair. In the past, as a result of the failure to engage the wheelchair brake assemblies, patients have suffered a very high incidence of injury which occurs when the chair slips from under the patient and the patient falls to the floor. Such injuries, usually in the nature of fractured hips, etc., in aged and debilitated persons are often most grave.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,302,757 discloses an apparatus designed to solve the aforementioned problems. This apparatus automatically applies a specially designed brake to each wheel of a wheelchair when weight is removed from the wheelchair seat. This apparatus utilizes an adjustable belt, upon which the patient sits, and which is connected to two spring biased brake layers to release the brake pressure when sufficient weight is applied to the belt. This apparatus is complex in structure and therefore relatively costly to manufacture and difficult to install on existing wheelchairs. In addition, this apparatus makes no provision for braking the wheelchair while the wheelchair seat is occupied.
In other environments, particularly in automotive vehicles, alarm systems have been utilized to warn the driver that the vehicle is being left in an unsafe condition. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,723,968 discloses an alarm circuit for an automobile which sounds an alarm if both the parking brake is off and the drivers seat is unoccupiedv In addition, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,055,187 and 3,748,640 show automobile alarm circuits responsive to both seat occupancy and other conditions in the vehicle, such as the condition of seat belts, headlights,
etc.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with the present, a standard wheelchair including a seat, first and second drive wheels, and first and second drive wheel brake assemblies movable along a wheel engaging path, is provided with a frame adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat. Electrically actuated alarm means is securely attached to the frame. A first switch means is also securely attached to the frame, and is adapted to be maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat to thereby assume a first position when there is no weight on the wheelchair seat and be forced into a second position in response to a weight on the wheelchair seat. A second switch means is securely attached to the frame and is adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the first brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when the first brake assembly is disengaged from the first drive wheel and be forced into a second position when the first brake is applied to the first drive wheel. A third switch means is securely attached to the frame and is adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of the second brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when the second brake assembly is disengaged from the second drive wheel and be forced into a second position when the second brake is applied to the second drive wheel. Conductor means are provided to electrically connect the alarm means with the first, second and third switch means so that the alarm means is actuated if the first switch means and either the second switch means or the third switch means are in the first position, indicating no weight in the wheelchair seat and the disengagement of at least one of the brake assemblies.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which will aid in the prevention of injury to wheelchair users.
Another object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which is simple in construction and may be easily installed on existing wheelchairs.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which will not interfere with the normal operation of the wheelchair or the wheelchair braking assemblies.
Still another object of the present invention is the provision of a wheelchair alarm system which is inexpensive to manufacture.
Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawmgs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. I shows a front view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention, with the wheelchair seat shown in phantom;
FIG. 2 shows a partial top 'view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention;
FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention;
FIG. 4 shows an end view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention and shows the wheelchair brake assembly engaging the drive wheel (shown in phantom);
FIG. 5 shows an end view of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention showing the brake assembly disengaged from the drive wheel (shown in phantom);
FIG. 6 is a schematic of the electric circuit of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The structure of the wheelchair alarm system of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3. A pair of standard wheelchair brake assemblies 10 and I2 are fastened, by means of brackets 14 and 16, to structural members on the wheelchair (not shown). A wheelchair seat 18 and I8 is shown in phantom as being suspended from the same wheelchair structural member. A support means, preferably shown as a frame, generally indicated at 20, is suspended from the brackets 14 and 16 so as to be positioned beneath the wheelchair seat 18. Although the frame 20 is shown in the preferred embodiment as being suspended from the brake assemblies and 12, it is to be understood that the frame could be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat 18 in any known manner. The frame 20 is preferably made up of a linear main supporting, member 22, which in turn includes three overlapping members 24, 26 and 28. The overlapping members are preferably formed of steel angle irons which are suitably fastened, for example, by nuts and bolts 30. Additional holes 32 may be drilled in the overlapping members so as to permit an easy adjustment in the length of the frame, to thereby permit it to be readily attached to wheelchairs of varying widths. Auxiliary supporting members 34 and 36 are securely fastened to the linear main supporting member 22 at the ends thereof, preferably by means of nuts and bolts 38. The auxiliary supporting members 34 and 36 are also preferably angle irons and are mounted at right angles with respect to the linear main supporting member 22.
An alarm means 40 is securely fastened to the center member 26, preferably by means of a bracket 42 and bolts 44. The alarm means 40 can be any electrically actuated self-contained alarm and is preferably a battery-powered commercially available unit selling under the tradename Powerhorn Jr. Security System. This unit has its own off-on switch 46.
A plate 48 is securely fastened to the center supporting member 26, preferably by means of nuts and bolts 50. The plate includes a plurality of additional mounting holes 52 so that the position of the plate with respect to the frame 20 is adjustable. Securely fastened to the top of the plate 48 is a first switch means 54. The switch 54 is a standard microswitch having a lever 56 extending therefrom, which lever is utilized to actuate the switch 54. As is shown best in FIG. 1, the lever 56 is maintained in contact with the wheelchair seat 18, such that when the wheelchair seat is unoccupied, the seat rises somewhat (as shown at 18') and the switch lever assumes a first position as is shown in phantom in 56. When the wheelchair seat is occupied, even a slight amount of weight on the seat 18 will be sufficient to depress the lever to a second position as is shown at 56. Thus, it is apparent that the switch means 54 can be utilized to sense whether or not the wheelchair seat is occupied.
Securely fastened to each of the auxiliary supporting members 34 and 36 are second and third switch means 58 and 60, respectively. The switches 58 and 60 include levers 62 and 64, which are positioned so as to maintain contact with the brake assemblies 10 and 12, respectively. Since the operation of the switches 58 and 60 is identical, the operation of switch 58 only will be described in connection with FIGS. 4 and 5.
In FIG. 5, the brake assembly 10 is shown disengaged from the drive wheel 66 (shown in phantom). As a result, the lever 62 of the switch 58 assumes a first position. When the brake arm 68 is applied to the wheel 66 as shown in FIG. 4, the lever 62 is forced into a second position. Thus, it is apparent that the second and third switch means 58 and 60 serve to monitor the position of the brake levers l0 and 12, respectively.
The alarm 40 and the three switches 54, 58 and 60 are electrically interconnected by suitable conductor means 70 as schematically illustrated in FIG. 6. The switch 54 includes a normally closed contact 72 and a normally open contact 74. The normally closed contact 72 corresponds to the first position of the lever 56 and thus the wiper 76 assumes contact with the normally closed contact 72 when the wheelchair seat is unoccupied.-When the wheelchair seat is occupied, the weight on the seat forces the lever 56 to assume its second position and thereby forces the wiper 76 into contact with the normally open switch contact 74. When the wiper 76 is in contact with the terminal 74, it is impossible for the alarm to sound. Thus, as long as the wheelchair seat is occupied, the alarm 40 cannot be activated. The switches 58 and 60 include normally closed contacts 78 and 80, respectively, normally open contacts 82 and 84, respectively, and wipers 86 and 88, respectively. Once again, since the operation of the switches 58 and 60 is identical, the operation of switch 58 only will be described.
When the brake assembly 10 is disengaged from the drive wheel 66, the switch lever 62 assumes its first position and, as a result, the wiper 86 is in contact with the normally closed switch contact 78. When the brake 68 engages the drive wheel 66 and the switch lever 62 is forced into its second position, the wiper 86 is forced into contact with the normally open terminal 82. Thus, it can be easily seen that in order for the alarm 40 to be actuated, the switch 54 must be in the closed position, indicating that the wheelchair seat is unoccupied, and either the switch 58 or' the switch 60 must also be in the closed position, indicating the brake assembly 10 or brake assembly 12 is disengaged from its respective drive wheel.
Thus, a relatively simple yet effective alarm system has been provided to aid in the prevention of injury to patients in the process of leaving or sitting in an unbraked wheelchair. The frame 20 can easily be mounted beneath the seat of any commercially available wheelchair without interfering with the normal operation of the wheelchair or the brake assemblies.
While there has been described what is at present considered to be the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein, without departing from the invention. It is, therefore, aimed in the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
What is claimed:
1. In a wheelchair including a seat, first and second drive wheels, and first and second drive wheel brake assembliesmovable along a wheel engaging path, the improvement comprising:
a. a support means adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat;
b. electrically actuated alarm means securely at- .tached to said support means; first switch means securely attached to said support means and adapted to be maintained in contact with said wheelchair seat to thereby assume, a first position when there is no weight on said wheelchair seat and be forced into a second position in response to a weight on said wheelchair seat;
d. second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said first brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said first brake assembly is disengaged from said first drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said first brake is applied to said first drive wheel;
e. third switch means securely attached to the other end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said second brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said second brake assembly is disengaged from said second drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said second brake is applied to said second drive wheel; and
f. conductor means electrically connecting said alarm means, said first switch means, said second switch means and said third switch means so that said alarm means is actuated if said first switch means and either said second switch means or said third switch means are in said first position, indicating no weight on said wheelchair seat and the disengagement of at least one of said brake assemblies.
2. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said support means includes a frame having a main supporting member and two auxiliary supporting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
3. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first switch means is securely fastened to said main supporting member and said second and third switch means are each securely fastened to one of said auxiliary supporting members.
4. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said main supporting member is linear and includes means for adjusting the length of said main supporting memher.
5. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said frame further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
6. An alarm system for a wheelchair having a seat and first and second brake assemblies comprising:
a. support means having a main supporting member and fastening means located at the ends of said main supporting member for attaching said support means to a wheelchair,
b. first switch means securely attached to said support means and adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said first switch means to thereby respond to weight on said seat,
c. second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means so as to project beyond one end of said main supporting member, said second switch means being adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said second switch means to thereby respond to the position of said first brake assembly,
(:1. third switch means securely attached to the other end of said support means so as to project beyond the other end of said main supporting member, said third switch means being adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said third switch means to thereby respond to the position of said second brake assembly,
e. electrically actuated alarm means, and
f. conductor means electrically connecting said alarm means, said first switch means, said second switch means, and said third switch means so that said alarm means is actuated if said first switch means and either said second switch means or said third switch means are in said first position.
7. An alarm system as set forth in claim 6, wherein said support means further includes two auxiliary sup porting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
8. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said first switch means is securely fastened to said main supporting member and said second and third switch means are each securely fastened to one of said auxiliary supporting members.
9. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said linear main supporting member includes means for adjusting the length of said main supporting member.
10. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said support means further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
Claims (10)
1. In a wheelchair including a seat, first and second drive wheels, and first and second drive wheel brake assemblies movable along a wheel engaging path, the improvement comprising: a. a support means adapted to be mounted beneath the wheelchair seat; b. electrically actuated alarm means securely attached to said support means; c. first switch means securely attached to said support means and adapted to be maintained in contact with said wheelchair seat to thereby assume a first position when there is no weight on said wheelchair seat and be forced into a second position in response to a weight on said wheelchair seat; d. second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said first brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said first brake assembly is disengaged from said first drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said first brake is applied to said first drive wheel; e. third switch means securely attached to the other end of said support means and adapted to be positioned in the path of movement of said second brake assembly to thereby assume a first position when said second brake assembly is disengaged from said second drive wheel and be forced into a second position when said second brake is applied to said second drive wheel; and f. conductor means electrically connecting said alarm means, said first switch means, said second switch means and said third switch means so that said alarm means is actuated if said first switch means and either said second switch means or said third switch means are in said first position, indicating no weight on said wheelchair seat and the disengagement of at least one of said brake assemblies.
2. An apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein said support means includes a frame having a main supporting member and two auxiliary supporting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
3. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first switch means is securely fastened to said main supporting member and said second and third switch means are each securely fastened to one of said auxiliary supporting members.
4. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said main supporting member is linear and includes means for adjusting the length of said main supporting member.
5. An apparatus as set forth in claim 2 wherein said frame further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
6. An alarm system for a wheelchair having a seat and first and second brake assemblies comprising: a. support means having a main supporting member and fastening means located at the ends of said main supporting member for attaching said support means to a wheelchair, b. first switch means securely attached to said support means and adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said first switch means to thereby respond to weight on said seat, c. second switch means securely attached to one end of said support means so as to project beyond one end of said main supporting member, said second switch means being adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said second switch means to thereby respond to the position of said first brake assembly, d. third switch means securely attached to the other end of said support means so as to project beyond the other end of said main supporting member, said third switch means being adapted to assume a first position when unstressed and assume a second position when a force is applied to said third switch means to thereby respond to the position of said second brake assembly, e. electrically actuated alarm means, and f. conductor means electrically connecting said alarm means, said first switch means, said second switch means, and said third switch means so that said alarm means is actuated if said first switch means and either said second switch means or said third switch means are in said first position.
7. An alarm system as set forth in claim 6, wherein said support means further includes two auxiliary supporting members securely fastened to said main supporting member at the ends thereof.
8. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said first switch means is securely fastened to said main supporting member and said second and third switch means are each securely fastened to one of said auxiliary supporting members.
9. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said linear main supporting member includes means for adjusting the length of said main supporting member.
10. An apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein said support means further includes a plate having a plurality of mounting holes contained therein securely fastened to said main supporting member, and wherein said first switch means is securely attached to said plate whereby the position of said first switch means with respect to said main supporting member is adjustable.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US489726A US3903513A (en) | 1974-07-18 | 1974-07-18 | Wheelchair alarm system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US489726A US3903513A (en) | 1974-07-18 | 1974-07-18 | Wheelchair alarm system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US3903513A true US3903513A (en) | 1975-09-02 |
Family
ID=23945031
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US489726A Expired - Lifetime US3903513A (en) | 1974-07-18 | 1974-07-18 | Wheelchair alarm system |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US3903513A (en) |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4067061A (en) * | 1975-03-18 | 1978-01-03 | Rockwell International Corporation | Monitoring and recording system for vehicles |
US4179876A (en) * | 1976-11-22 | 1979-12-25 | Toyota Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Digital clock for motor vehicles |
EP0243183A2 (en) * | 1986-04-24 | 1987-10-28 | Cosco, Inc. | Carriage |
US4855709A (en) * | 1985-06-17 | 1989-08-08 | Naderi Mohammad T | System of alarm to make aware about bad condition of car |
US4967182A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1990-10-30 | Foster Bobby D | Parking brake warning device for over the road tractor trailers |
US5294914A (en) * | 1993-02-24 | 1994-03-15 | Dallas Robert S | Vehicle helmet warning system |
US6092824A (en) * | 1998-02-20 | 2000-07-25 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair automatic anti-rollback assembly |
US6508580B2 (en) | 2000-12-08 | 2003-01-21 | Cynthia J. Collins | Personal security assembly |
US20050001732A1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2005-01-06 | Sweeney Charles M. | Underseat monitor |
US6963286B2 (en) | 2002-02-27 | 2005-11-08 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair and alarm therefor |
US20060011421A1 (en) * | 2002-09-04 | 2006-01-19 | Connors James B | Automatic wheelchair brake system and wheelchair including same |
US7331071B1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2008-02-19 | Julian Cherubini | Method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of a person on a flexible support |
US20100066056A1 (en) * | 2008-09-17 | 2010-03-18 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Wheelchair, wheelchair apparatus and wheelchair care service network system |
US8154416B1 (en) | 2009-06-19 | 2012-04-10 | Professional Security Corporation | Underseat wheel chair alarm |
JP2013085719A (en) * | 2011-10-18 | 2013-05-13 | Advanced Telecommunication Research Institute International | Wheelchair, and notification apparatus of stopped state for wheelchair |
US20130257010A1 (en) * | 2011-08-30 | 2013-10-03 | Melvin G. Hector, JR. | Automatic Braking Device and Method |
US8622409B2 (en) | 2009-03-03 | 2014-01-07 | Melvin G. Hector, JR. | Structure, components and method for constructing and operating an automatically self locking manually propelled vehicle such as a wheel chair |
US20210378892A1 (en) * | 2020-06-09 | 2021-12-09 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Electric wheelchair |
WO2023193046A1 (en) * | 2022-04-06 | 2023-10-12 | Kylix Pty Ltd | Brake mechanism for a wheelchair |
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US3723968A (en) * | 1967-07-03 | 1973-03-27 | W Kelly | Parking brake alarm |
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US3723968A (en) * | 1967-07-03 | 1973-03-27 | W Kelly | Parking brake alarm |
Cited By (28)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4067061A (en) * | 1975-03-18 | 1978-01-03 | Rockwell International Corporation | Monitoring and recording system for vehicles |
US4179876A (en) * | 1976-11-22 | 1979-12-25 | Toyota Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Digital clock for motor vehicles |
US4855709A (en) * | 1985-06-17 | 1989-08-08 | Naderi Mohammad T | System of alarm to make aware about bad condition of car |
EP0243183A2 (en) * | 1986-04-24 | 1987-10-28 | Cosco, Inc. | Carriage |
EP0243183A3 (en) * | 1986-04-24 | 1988-02-03 | Cosco, Inc. | Carriage |
US4967182A (en) * | 1989-08-28 | 1990-10-30 | Foster Bobby D | Parking brake warning device for over the road tractor trailers |
US5294914A (en) * | 1993-02-24 | 1994-03-15 | Dallas Robert S | Vehicle helmet warning system |
US6279936B1 (en) | 1997-02-28 | 2001-08-28 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair automatic anti-rollback assembly |
US6371503B2 (en) * | 1997-02-28 | 2002-04-16 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair automatic anti-rollback assembly |
US6092824A (en) * | 1998-02-20 | 2000-07-25 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair automatic anti-rollback assembly |
US6508580B2 (en) | 2000-12-08 | 2003-01-21 | Cynthia J. Collins | Personal security assembly |
US20060055550A1 (en) * | 2002-02-27 | 2006-03-16 | Marquis James A | Wheelchair and alarm therefor |
US6963286B2 (en) | 2002-02-27 | 2005-11-08 | 210 Innovations Llc | Wheelchair and alarm therefor |
US20060011421A1 (en) * | 2002-09-04 | 2006-01-19 | Connors James B | Automatic wheelchair brake system and wheelchair including same |
US7434824B2 (en) * | 2002-09-04 | 2008-10-14 | Air Movement Technologies, Inc. | Automatic wheelchair brake system and wheelchair including same |
US20050001732A1 (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2005-01-06 | Sweeney Charles M. | Underseat monitor |
US7331071B1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2008-02-19 | Julian Cherubini | Method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of a person on a flexible support |
US20080136226A1 (en) * | 2005-05-11 | 2008-06-12 | Alimed, Inc. | Method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of a person on a flexible support |
US7836529B2 (en) | 2005-05-11 | 2010-11-23 | Alimed, Inc. | Method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of a person on a flexible support |
US8186700B2 (en) | 2008-09-17 | 2012-05-29 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Wheelchair, wheelchair apparatus and wheelchair care service network system |
US20100066056A1 (en) * | 2008-09-17 | 2010-03-18 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Wheelchair, wheelchair apparatus and wheelchair care service network system |
US8622409B2 (en) | 2009-03-03 | 2014-01-07 | Melvin G. Hector, JR. | Structure, components and method for constructing and operating an automatically self locking manually propelled vehicle such as a wheel chair |
US8154416B1 (en) | 2009-06-19 | 2012-04-10 | Professional Security Corporation | Underseat wheel chair alarm |
US20130257010A1 (en) * | 2011-08-30 | 2013-10-03 | Melvin G. Hector, JR. | Automatic Braking Device and Method |
JP2013085719A (en) * | 2011-10-18 | 2013-05-13 | Advanced Telecommunication Research Institute International | Wheelchair, and notification apparatus of stopped state for wheelchair |
US20210378892A1 (en) * | 2020-06-09 | 2021-12-09 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Electric wheelchair |
US11925590B2 (en) * | 2020-06-09 | 2024-03-12 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Electric wheelchair |
WO2023193046A1 (en) * | 2022-04-06 | 2023-10-12 | Kylix Pty Ltd | Brake mechanism for a wheelchair |
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