Motor vehicles – Steering by driving – Independently operable drive motors
Patent
1998-12-10
2000-06-20
Swann, J. J.
Motor vehicles
Steering by driving
Independently operable drive motors
180 926, B62D 1100
Patent
active
060766190
ABSTRACT:
A self-powered, all terrain vehicle designed for self-assisted transfers of a paraplegic, or other disabled person, between the vehicle and a wheelchair. A longitudinally extended vehicle underframe is carried between two track mechanisms. Each track mechanism has an endless belt about the same and about pivotally mounted idler wheels and a rear drive sprocket in driving engagement with the belt. Each drive sprocket is driven by a hydraulic motor powered by a hydraulic pump coupled to an internal combustion engine. Height adjustable motor mounts permit adjusting the tension in each belt. A seat assembly carried by the underframe provides a passenger seating surface that extends laterally outward over the track mechanisms to minimize the lateral distance a wheelchair-bound passenger must heave his body to mount and dismount the vehicle. To achieve a narrow vehicle profile for ease of passenger entry and exit, the engine and hydraulic drive system components are disposed longitudinally, and the hydraulic fluid tank comprises two wing tank portions disposed under side portions of the seating surface and joined by a rear tank portion mounted behind the seating assembly. An air bladder seat suspension system aids passenger comfort and permits adjusting the longitudinal attitude of the seating surface. Passenger safety restraints include a pair of leg rests, and seat and shoulder belts. A steerable auxiliary wheel system is provided for rolling the vehicle on auxiliary wheels in the event the vehicle becomes inoperable.
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Mountain Wheelchair by HANDI TRAK, searchable on the Internet.
Coyne Brian J.
Shriver J. Allen
Swann J. J.
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