U.S. patent application number 14/531658 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-26 for folding convertible wheelchair.
The applicant listed for this patent is Arlen Helterbrand. Invention is credited to Arlen Helterbrand.
Application Number | 20150054255 14/531658 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52479675 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150054255 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Helterbrand; Arlen |
February 26, 2015 |
FOLDING CONVERTIBLE WHEELCHAIR
Abstract
A folding wheelchair is easily convertible between a folding
wheelchair of a first type and a folding wheelchair of a second
type through the use of conversion components, some of which are
mounted permanently to the wheelchair and some of which are
received by the mounted conversion components. In one form, the
first type is a folding beach wheelchair while the second type is a
folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair. Conversion is achieved
through changeable front and back wheels. For instance, the folding
beach wheelchair includes right and left rear wheels having
oversized, low pressure tires. Right and left front brackets are
mounted to the existing frame and are configured to receive right
and left wheel assemblies, having smaller, low pressure tires
mounted for pivoting movement. The folding all-terrain wheels have
solid, high pressure or the like tires.
Inventors: |
Helterbrand; Arlen;
(Sheridan, IN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Helterbrand; Arlen |
Sheridan |
IN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52479675 |
Appl. No.: |
14/531658 |
Filed: |
November 3, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13946620 |
Jul 19, 2013 |
|
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14531658 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
280/304.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61G 5/12 20130101; A61G
5/0825 20161101; B60C 5/008 20130101; B60C 2200/14 20130101; A61G
5/1035 20130101; A61G 5/101 20130101; A61G 5/08 20130101; A61G 5/06
20130101; B60C 2200/00 20130101; A61G 5/1018 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/304.1 |
International
Class: |
A61G 5/08 20060101
A61G005/08; A61G 5/10 20060101 A61G005/10; A61G 5/12 20060101
A61G005/12 |
Claims
1. A collapsible wheelchair convertible between a collapsible beach
wheelchair and a collapsible all-terrain wheelchair, comprising: a
folding frame carrying a foldable seat, a foldable back, a right
side frame structure, and a left side frame structure, the right
side frame structure having a right side armrest, a right side back
frame member, a right side front frame member, and a right side
rear frame member, the left side frame structure having a left side
armrest, a left side back frame member, a left side front frame
member, and a left side rear frame member; a rear right side
all-terrain tire of a first diameter rotatably mounted to the right
side rear frame member and having a rear right side all-terrain
tire axis of rotation; a rear left side all-terrain tire of the
first diameter rotatably mounted to the left side rear frame
member, and having a rear left side all-terrain tire axis of
rotation that is co-axial with the rear right side all-terrain tire
axis of rotation and which together define a rear all-terrain axis
of rotation whose height from ground is substantially equal to a
radius of the first diameter; a front right side all-terrain tire
of a second diameter that is less than the first diameter mounted
to the right side front frame member and having a front right side
all- terrain tire axis of rotation; a front left side all-terrain
tire of the second diameter rotatably mounted to the left side
front frame member, and having a front left side all-terrain tire
axis of rotation that is co-axial with the front right side
all-terrain tire axis of rotation and which together define a front
all-terrain axis of rotation whose height from ground is
substantially equal to a radius of the second diameter, whereby the
foldable seat is substantially parallel to ground when the folding
frame in un-folded; and conversion components that, when installed
on the folding frame with the front and rear all-terrain tires,
convert the all-terrain wheelchair into a beach wheelchair, the
conversion components including: a rear axle sized to be received
through the rear right side all-terrain tire axis of rotation of
the rear right side all-terrain tire and the rear left side
all-terrain tire axis of rotation of the rear left side all-terrain
tire, the rear axle defining a rear beach axis of rotation; a rear
right side beach tire of a third diameter rotatably mountable on
the rear axle; a rear left side beach tire of the third diameter
rotatably mountable on the rear axle, the rear beach axis of
rotation having a height from ground that is substantially equal to
a radius of the third diameter; a pivoting front right side beach
tire of a fourth diameter that is less that the third diameter
receivable in place of the front right side all-terrain tire; and a
pivoting front left side beach tire of the fourth diameter
receivable in place of the front left side all-terrain tire; the
third diameter of the right and left rear beach tires relative to
the fourth diameter of the right and left front beach tires making
the foldable seat slant upwardly relative to ground from the rear
of the folding frame to the front of the folding frame when the
folding frame in un-folded.
2. The collapsible wheelchair of claim 1, wherein each beach tire
comprises a low pressure tire.
3. The collapsible wheelchair of claim 1, wherein the first and
second front beach tires comprise wheel assemblies each having a
low pressure tire retained by a yoke pivotally coupled to a
plate.
4. The collapsible wheelchair of claim 1, further comprising a foot
strap attached between the right side front frame member and the
left side front frame member.
5. The collapsible wheelchair of claim 4, wherein the foot strap
has a first end that is pivotally attached to the right side front
frame member, and a second end that is pivotally attached to left
side front frame member.
6. The collapsible wheelchair of claim 1, further comprising: a
first stop mechanism mounted on the right side frame structure and
having a right side rubber member that is configured to selectively
engage with and disengage from the right side rear tire upon user
actuation; and a second stop mechanism mounted on the left side
frame structure and having a left side rubber member that is
configured to selectively engage with and disengage from the left
side rear tire upon user actuation.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is a continuation-in-part of
co-pending patent application Ser. No. 13/946,620 filed Jul. 19,
2013 titled "Portable Convertible Wheelchair", which is a
continuation-in-part of patent application Ser. No. 13/567,517
filed Aug. 6, 2012 titled "Portable Convertible Wheelchair" now
U.S. Pat. No. 8,678,402 issued Mar. 25, 2014, the entire contents
of each of which is specifically incorporated herein by this
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to folding wheelchairs and,
more particularly, to a folding wheelchair that is convertible
between one type of folding wheelchair, such as a folding beach
wheelchair, and another type of folding wheelchair, such as a
folding all-terrain wheelchair.
[0004] 2. Background
[0005] While there are now many types of wheelchairs, each type of
wheelchair is designed with a single or dedicated purpose. For
example, the typical street wheelchair one sees in hospitals,
nursing homes, airports and other facilities is designed to
transport a person while on relatively smooth ground, flooring, or
carpet. The street wheelchair has disadvantages when used on
terrain other than the typical indoor surface or conditioned
outside surface--as it is difficult to push and/or navigate a
street wheelchair through rough, uneven and/or sandy terrain. Many
wheelchairs are pushed, guided or navigated (operated) by someone
other than the person seated in the wheelchair. Therefore, the
operator must then be able to control the wheelchair through the
rough, uneven and/or sandy terrain.
[0006] Because people who use wheelchairs want to be able to use
the same spaces others not in wheelchairs do, wheelchairs have been
designed that are easier to operate on certain terrains. For
instance a surface where it is difficult for a standard or street
wheelchair to operate is on sandy areas/beaches. Because of their
design, it is extremely difficult to push and/or navigate a typical
street wheelchair on the beach. Therefore, single purpose beach
wheelchairs have been developed that are easier for a person to
operate than a typical street wheelchair. These single purpose
beach wheelchairs however, while effective, are big and gregarious.
Because of their size, they cannot be easily transported when not
in use. Moreover, storage is also a problem.
[0007] Other single purpose wheelchairs have been developed for
various terrains/environments. However, these single purposed
wheelchairs suffer from the same disadvantages of other single
purpose wheelchairs--namely, not easily transportable, storable or
usable in places/terrains other than its intended places/terrains.
Also, if a person wants to be able to use a wheelchair in multiple
places/terrains, the user must have several single purpose
wheelchairs.
[0008] In view of the above, it would therefore be advantageous to
have a single wheelchair that can be used in and/or for varied
terrain. Thus, there is a need for a multiple purpose wheelchair.
More particularly, there is a need for a wheelchair convertible
between a conventional wheelchair and a wheelchair for specialty
terrains.
[0009] Also, the more portable the wheelchair, the more convenient
it is to use. Folding wheelchairs provide such portability.
However, folding wheelchairs are not convertible nor are there
specialty wheelchairs as described herein. Therefore, it would be
advantageous to have a folding wheelchair that converts between one
type of folding specialty wheelchair and another type of folding
specialty wheelchair. More particularly, it would be advantageous
to have a folding wheelchair that converts between a folding
all-terrain wheelchair and a folding beach wheelchair, and vice
versa.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The present invention is a folding or foldable wheelchair
that is convertible between one type of folding wheelchair and
another type of folding wheelchair. The folding wheelchair includes
conversion components mounted thereon that receive specialty
conversion parts that convert one type of folding wheelchair into
another type of folding wheelchair.
[0011] In one form, the one type of folding wheelchair is a folding
beach wheelchair, while the other type of folding wheelchair is a
folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair.
[0012] In a folding beach wheelchair form, the conversion
components include front brackets mounted to the front wheel
assemblies, rear brackets mounted to the wheelchair frame adjacent
to the rear wheel assemblies, low pressure tires, and conversion
support parts. The front brackets are configured to allow an axle
of the conversion support parts to extend through the front wheel
assemblies. An oversized, low pressure tire is mounted on each axle
end. The beach conversion components further include rear brackets
mounted to the frame of the wheelchair adjacent to rear wheel
assemblies of the conversion support parts, each rear wheel
assembly carrying a low pressure tire. The rear brackets are
adapted to receive an arm of the rear wheel assembly. The
configuration, type and size of the tires provide a stable
wheelchair platform that is easy to push in all types of beach
sands, sand terrains and/or conditions.
[0013] In another folding beach wheelchair form, the conversion
components include a rear axle assembly configured for reception in
existing rear axle structures for rear wheels of the street
wheelchair. A rear axle of the rear axle assembly receives and
carries low pressure tires. The conversion components further
include front wheel assemblies configured for reception in existing
front wheel supports of the street wheelchair. Each front wheel
assembly carries a low pressure tire.
[0014] In another folding beach wheelchair form, the conversion
components include right and left rear oversized, low pressure
tires adapted for reception onto the existing rear wheelchair frame
or frame and axle thereof in place of the original right and left
wheelchair wheels, right and left front wheel assemblies, and right
and left front brackets that are adapted to receive the right and
left wheel assemblies attached to right and left front portions of
the frame of the wheelchair. Once installed, the conversion
components never need to be removed to provide a portable and
foldable beach wheelchair. Hence, in another form of this version,
the present invention is a beach wheelchair pre-configured with the
conversion components as described above to provide a dedicated
portable and folding beach wheelchair.
[0015] In the folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair form, the
conversion components include front wheel assemblies configured for
reception in existing front wheel supports of the street
wheelchair. Each front wheel assembly carries an all-terrain tire.
The conversion components further include rear wheel axle
assemblies configured for reception in existing rear axle
structures for the rear tires of the street wheelchair. The front
and rear all-terrain tires are wide and have a thick tread.
Moreover, the front and rear all-terrain tires are sized
accordingly.
[0016] The present folding convertible wheelchair may be converted
into other specialty wheelchairs through use of other conversion
components and/or parts. For instance, a folding all-terrain
wheelchair may be converted into a folding beach wheelchair and
vice versa by having conversion components and/or parts thereon
that allow changing of wheelchair components such as front and/or
back wheels. In the case of changeable front and/or back wheels,
various types and/or sizes of wheels provide various
characteristics to the wheelchair.
[0017] Further aspects of the present invention will become
apparent from consideration of the drawings and the following
description of preferred embodiments of the invention. A person
skilled in the art will realize that other embodiments of the
invention are possible and that the details of the invention can be
modified in a number of respects without departing from the
inventive concept. The following drawings and description are to be
regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The features of the invention will be better understood by
reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate presently
preferred embodiments of the present invention, wherein:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a folding wheelchair
convertible between a folding conventional or street wheelchair and
a folding specialty wheelchair, with specialty wheelchair
components for converting the folding street wheelchair into a
folding beach wheelchair shown in exploded view relative to the
folding street wheelchair;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the folding wheelchair of
FIG. 1 converted into a folding beach wheelchair via the beach
conversion components;
[0021] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a front wheel
bracket of the beach conversion components for attachment onto the
front wheel assembly of the wheelchair;
[0022] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of a rear wheel
bracket of the beach conversion components for a rear wheel
assembly of the beach conversion parts;
[0023] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a front wheel
assembly of the present folding convertible wheelchair with the
front wheel brackets of the beach conversion components as shown in
FIG. 3 mounted thereon;
[0024] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective side view of a rear
portion of the present folding convertible wheelchair showing
placement of the rear wheel bracket of the beach conversion
components as shown in FIG. 4 onto the wheelchair;
[0025] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective rear view of the rear
portion of the present folding convertible wheelchair showing a
manner of attachment of the rear wheel bracket of the beach
conversion components to the wheelchair;
[0026] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a rear wheel assembly of the
beach conversion components;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a folding portable
wheelchair convertible between a folding conventional or street
wheelchair and a folding specialty wheelchair, with specialty
wheelchair components for converting the folding street wheelchair
into a folding all-terrain wheelchair shown in exploded view
relative to the folding street wheelchair;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the folding wheelchair of
FIG. 9 converted into a folding all-terrain wheelchair via the
all-terrain conversion components;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a folding portable
wheelchair convertible between a folding conventional or street
wheelchair and a folding specialty wheelchair, with specialty
wheelchair components for converting the folding street wheelchair
into a folding beach wheelchair shown in exploded view relative to
the folding street wheelchair;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a folding wheelchair
convertible between a folding conventional or street wheelchair and
a folding specialty wheelchair, with specialty wheelchair
components for converting the folding street wheelchair into a
folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair shown in exploded view
relative to the folding street wheelchair;
[0031] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a folding wheelchair
convertible between a folding conventional or street wheelchair and
a folding specialty wheelchair, with specialty wheelchair
components for converting the folding street wheelchair into a
folding beach shown in exploded view relative to the folding street
wheelchair;
[0032] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a folding beach wheelchair
that may be a specialty wheelchair or a folding wheelchair
convertible between a folding beach wheelchair and a folding
all-terrain wheelchair, with wheelchair components for converting
the folding all-terrain wheelchair into a folding beach wheelchair
already mounted to the folding wheelchair frame; and
[0033] FIG. 15 is a side view of the folding beach wheelchair of
FIG. 14.
[0034] Like reference numerals indicate the same or similar parts
throughout the figures.
[0035] A description of the features, functions and/or
configurations of the components depicted in the various figures
will now be presented. It should be appreciated that not all of the
features of the components of the figures are necessarily
described. Some of these non-discussed features as well as
discussed features are inherent from the figures. Other
non-discussed features may be inherent in component geometry and/or
configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is shown a portable
folding convertible wheelchair, generally designated 10, that is
convertible between a portable folding conventional or street
wheelchair 12 (see FIG. 1) and a portable folding specialty
wheelchair, in accordance with the principles of the present
invention. The specialty wheelchair in this case is a folding beach
wheelchair 20 when specialty conversion components or parts 22 are
made part of and/or installed on the wheelchair 12. The wheelchair
12 has a folding or collapsible lightweight frame 13 so as to be
portable. The folding frame 13 supports a seat 14 and a back 15,
brake assembly 80 (see e.g., FIG. 6), as well as armrests, user
hand holds, hand brakes, and other typical wheelchair elements
shown and not shown. According to the present principles, all of
the wheelchairs herein are folding and portable.
[0037] The frame 13 rotatably supports a first rear wheel 16a on
one side of the frame 13 and a second rear wheel 16b on another
side of the frame 13. A first front wheel assembly 18a is pivotally
coupled to the frame 13 at one side thereof via a first pivot boss
or support structure 48a and a second front wheel assembly 18b
coupled to the frame at another side thereof via a second pivot
boss or support structure 48b. It should be appreciated that the
nomenclature first and second (or like language) is arbitrary for
both the aforementioned and below mentioned components or parts.
The frame 13 is also foldable in a conventional manner.
[0038] The specialty conversion components 22 (shown in exploded
view) of the convertible wheelchair 10 are particularly for
conversion between the street wheelchair 12 and the beach
wheelchair 20 (as shown in FIG. 2). While shown in exploded view,
some of the specialty conversion components 22 are preferably, but
not necessarily, pre-mounted or installed on the wheelchair 12. For
instance, a first rear conversion bracket 24a is attached to frame
members 40 and 41 via threaded U-bolts 38 and nuts 53 at a first
rear side of the frame, while a second rear conversion bracket 24b
is attached to like frame members via threaded bolts 38 and nuts 53
at a second rear side of the frame. The first and second rear
conversion brackets 24a, 24b each support a rear wheel conversion
assembly 26a, 26b that both support the back end of the wheelchair.
Also, a first front conversion bracket pair 30a, 31a is attached to
opposite sides of the first front wheel assembly 18a, while a
second front conversion bracket pair 30b, 31b is attached to
opposite sides of the second front wheel assembly 18b. The first
and second front conversion bracket pairs are configured to support
an axle 29 of the beach conversion components 22 which, in turn,
supports a first front conversion tire 32a and a second front
conversion tire 32b that both support the front end of the
wheelchair. Other specialty conversion components 22 are
temporarily installed on the wheelchair 12 when specialty
conversion is desired.
[0039] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first and second rear wheel
conversion brackets 24a and 24b are mounted to the frame 13 via
U-bolts 38 and nuts 53 and are configured to support the rear wheel
conversion assemblies 26a, 26b. Of course, other manners of
attaching the brackets may be used. As best seen in FIG. 4, the
first rear wheel conversion bracket 24a is depicted in greater
detail, it being understood that the second rear wheel conversion
bracket 24b is the same but reversed in configuration. The rear
wheel conversion bracket 24a is characterized by a plate 56a having
a first pair of bores 75a, 75b that allows the legs of a U-bolt 38
to extend therethrough, and a second pair of bores 76a, 76b that
allows the legs of a U-bolt 38 to extend therethrough. A tube 57a
is mounted to the plate 56a and includes a bore 58a that extends
through both sides of the tube 57a. The tube 57a is mounted to the
plate 56a such that the opening of the tube 57a is essentially
parallel to the ground.
[0040] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the first rear wheel beach
conversion bracket 24a is shown mounted to the frame members 40, 41
of the frame 13 of the wheelchair 12. U-bolts 38 are shown mounting
the plate 56a to the frame members 40, 41 via nuts 53. The plate
56a thereof is mounted to the frame members 40, 41 such that the
tube 57a is above the first rear wheel 16a of the wheelchair 12 or
otherwise oriented such that when installed, the first rear wheel
conversion assembly 26a lifts the first rear wheel 16a off the
ground. The tube 57a is sized to receive an arm 72a of the first
rear wheel conversion assembly 26a. The arm 72a and thus the first
rear wheel conversion assembly 56a is releasably held to the tube
57a via a D-pin 27a that extends through the bore 58a in the tube
57a and a bore 73a in the arm 72a of the first rear wheel
conversion assembly 26a.
[0041] The first rear wheel conversion assembly 26a is depicted in
greater detail in FIG. 8, it being understood that the second rear
wheel conversion assembly 26b is the same. The first rear wheel
conversion assembly 26a has an oversized, low pressure tire 28a
mounted on an axle 67 that is supported by a yoke 66a. A stem 77 is
rotatably mounted to and extends vertically from the yoke 66a to a
connection assembly 68a. The yoke 66a is thus attached to the stem
77 such that the yoke 66a and thus the tire 28a can swivel or
rotate about the connection assembly 68a. The stem 77 is
particularly connected to a lower plate 69a of the connection
assembly 68a which, in turn, is connected to an upper plate 70a of
the connection assembly 68a. The upper plate 70a has a flange 71a
that supports a handle 74a and arm 72a. The arm 72a has a bore 73a
that aligns with the bore 58a of the tube 57a of the rear
conversion bracket 24a and which receives the D-pin 27a when the
arm 72a is inserted into the tube 57a. Each rear wheel conversion
assembly 26 is thus easily attachable then detachable from the
bracket 24. In this manner, rear beach conversion wheels are easily
attached that elevate the rear wheels of the street wheelchair 12
and provide tires that allow use on all types and terrains of
beaches.
[0042] As indicated above, the first front conversion bracket pair
30a, 31a is attached to the first front wheel assembly 18a, while
the second front conversion bracket pair 30b, 31b is attached to
the second front wheel assembly 18b in order to support the axle
29. As seen in FIG. 3, the front conversion bracket 30a is shown in
greater detail and discussed below, it being understood that all of
the front conversion brackets 30, 31 are the same. The front
conversion bracket 30a is characterized by a plate 60a having a
pair of bores 62a, 62b that allows the bolts 53 and 54 to extend
therethrough, retained by nuts 53. A bore 61a is provided adjacent
the bores 62a, 62b and is sized to receive the axle 29.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 5, the pair of front wheel beach
conversion brackets 30a, 31a is shown attached to the yoke 46a of
the first front wheel assembly 18a. Particularly, the front wheel
beach conversion bracket 30a is mounted to an outside surface of a
leg 49a of the yoke 46a while the front wheel beach conversion
bracket 31a is mounted to an outside surface of a leg 50a of the
yoke 46a. The front wheel beach conversion bracket 30a is
particularly retained on the leg 49a via a bolt 52 and nut 53
associated with the upper bore 62a of the plate 60a, and a front
wheel axle 54 and nut 53 associated with the lower bore 62b of the
plate 60a. The axle 54 extends through and spans the front wheel
beach conversion brackets 30a, 31a to hold the front tire 19a (not
shown in FIG. 5). The front wheel beach conversion bracket 31a is
attached to the leg 50a of the yoke 46a by a bolt and nut (not
shown) extending through the appropriate bores of the plate 60a.
The yoke 46a is connected to a stem 47a that is received in the
pivot boss 48a.
[0044] As best illustrated in FIG. 1, the front tires 32a, 32b are
situated on the axle 29 that is retained by front wheel beach
conversion bracket pairs 30, 31. The axle 29 also extends through
the front wheels 19a, 19b. In order to provide adequate spacing
between the tire 32a and the front wheel beach conversion bracket
30a, a sleeve 33a is provided that fits over the end of the axle 29
between the tire 32a and the front wheel beach conversion bracket
30a. Likewise, in order to provide adequate spacing between the
tire 32b and the front wheel beach conversion bracket 30b, a sleeve
33b is provided that fits over the end of the axle 29 between tire
32b and the front wheel beach conversion bracket 30b. A washer 34a
is provided over the end of the axle 29 as it projects beyond the
hub of the tire 32a. A pin 36a is received in a bore 35a in the
axle proximate the end thereof, in order to retain the washer 34a
and tire 32a on the axle 29. Likewise, a washer 34b is provided
over the end of the axle 29 as it projects beyond the hub of the
tire 32b. A pin 36b is received in a bore 35b in the axle proximate
the end thereof, in order to retain the washer 34b and tire 32b on
the axle 29. With the tires 32a, 32b installed on the axle 29, the
front wheels 19a, 19b of the wheelchair 12 are elevated from the
ground. The tires 32a, 32b allow use on all types and terrains of
beaches.
[0045] Disassembly and/or conversion of the beach wheelchair 20
into the street wheelchair 12 is accomplished by removing the two
rear wheel assemblies 26a, 26b, the two front tires 32a, 32b, axle
29, washers 34a, 34b and bushings 33a, 33b. For the two rear wheel
assemblies 26a, 26b, a removal of the D-pins 27a, 27b from the tube
57 of the respective rear conversion plate 24 and from arm 72a, 72b
of the respective rear wheel assemblies 26a, 26b, releases the
respective arms that allows removal of the rear wheel assembly. For
the two front tires 32a, 32b, the pins 36a, 36b are removed from
the axle 29 allowing the washers 34a, 34b, the tires 32a, 32b, and
the bushings 33a, 33b to be removed from the axle 29. Thereafter,
the axle 29 is removed from the bracket pairs 30a, 31b and 30b,
31b.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 11, there is depicted another
embodiment of a folding convertible wheelchair, generally
designated 300, that is convertible between a folding conventional
or street wheelchair 312 and a folding specialty wheelchair, in
accordance with the present principles, wherein the folding
specialty wheelchair is a folding beach wheelchair. The folding
street wheelchair 312 includes at least substantially the same
features and parts as the folding street wheelchair of FIGS. 1 and
2 and, as such, has corresponding parts that are numbered in the
300's whose tens and digit places correspond to the corresponding
part on the wheelchair 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. These corresponding
parts will not be discussed in detail.
[0047] The folding convertible wheelchair 300 includes specialty
conversion components 322 (shown in exploded view) particularly for
conversion between the folding street wheelchair 312 and a folding
beach wheelchair. It should be appreciated, like the wheelchair 12
of FIGS. 1 and 2, some of the specialty conversion components 322
are preferably, but not necessarily, pre-mounted or installed on
the wheelchair 312. For instance, a first front conversion bracket
330a is attached to a first front frame member of the frame 313 via
threaded U-bolts and nuts, while a second front conversion bracket
330b is attached to a second frame member of the frame 313 via
threaded bolts and nuts. The first and second front conversion
brackets 330a, 330b are thus attached to opposite sides of the
front frame. The first and second front conversion brackets 330a,
330b are configured to support an axle 329 of the beach conversion
components 322 which, in turn, supports a first front conversion
tire 332a adjacent the first side of the frame 313 and a second
front conversion tire 332b adjacent the second side of the frame
313, that both support the front end of the wheelchair 300.
[0048] When the folding convertible wheelchair is a folding beach
wheelchair, a front axle 329 of the beach conversion components 322
is supported by the first and second front conversion brackets
330a, 330b. The first front conversion bracket 330a has a bore
331a, while the second front conversion bracket has a bore 331b.
The bores 331a, 331b are aligned such that the front axle 329 can
extend through the bores 331a, 331b. The front tires 332a, 332b are
situated on the front axle 329 laterally outside the front
conversion brackets 330a, 330b. In order to provide adequate
spacing between the tire 332a and the first front wheel beach
conversion bracket 330a, a sleeve 333a is provided that fits over
the end of the front axle 329 between the tire 332a and the first
front wheel beach conversion bracket 330a. Likewise, in order to
provide adequate spacing between the tire 332b and the second front
wheel beach conversion bracket 330b, a sleeve 333b is provided that
fits over the end of the front axle 329 between the tire 332b and
the second front wheel beach conversion bracket 330b. A washer 334a
is provided over the end of the front axle 329 as it projects
beyond the hub of the tire 332a. A pin 336a is received in a bore
335a in the front axle 329 proximate the end thereof, in order to
retain the washer 334a and the tire 332a on the front axle 329.
Likewise, a washer 334b is provided over the end of the front axle
329 as it projects beyond the hub of the tire 332b. A pin 336b is
received in a bore 335b in the front axle 329 proximate the end
thereof, in order to retain the washer 334b and the tire 332b on
the front axle 329. With the tires 332a, 332b installed on the
front axle 329, the front wheels 319a, 319b of the wheelchair 312
are elevated from the ground. The tires 332a, 332b allow use on all
types and terrains of beaches.
[0049] Additionally, when the folding convertible wheelchair is a
folding beach wheelchair, a rear axle 363 of the beach conversion
components 322 is supported by the first and second rear conversion
brackets 324a, 324b. The first rear conversion bracket 324a has a
bore 325a, while the second rear conversion bracket has a bore
325b. The bores 325a, 325b are aligned such that the rear axle 363
can extend through the bores 324a, 324b. The rear tires 350a, 350b
are situated on the rear axle 363 laterally outside the rear
conversion brackets 324a, 324b. In order to provide adequate
spacing between the tire 350a and the first rear wheel beach
conversion bracket 324a, a sleeve 352a is provided that fits over
the end of the rear axle 363 between the tire 350a and the first
rear wheel beach conversion bracket 324a. Likewise, in order to
provide adequate spacing between the tire 350b and the second rear
wheel beach conversion bracket 324b, a sleeve 352b is provided that
fits over the end of the rear axle 363 between the tire 350b and
the second rear wheel beach conversion bracket 324b. A washer 351b
is provided over the end of the rear axle 363 as it projects beyond
the hub of the tire 350b. A pin 366a is received in a bore 367a in
the rear axle 363 proximate the end thereof, in order to retain the
washer 351a and the tire 350a on the rear axle 363. Likewise, a
washer 351b is provided over the end of the rear axle 363 as it
projects beyond the hub of the tire 350b. A pin 366b is received in
a bore 367b in the rear axle 363 proximate the end thereof, in
order to retain the washer 351b and the tire 350b on the rear axle
363. With the tires 350a, 350b installed on the rear axle 363, the
rear wheels 316a, 316b of the wheelchair 312 are elevated from the
ground. The tires 350a, 350b allow use on all types and terrains of
beaches.
[0050] Referring now to FIG. 13, there is depicted another
embodiment of a folding portable convertible wheelchair, generally
designated 500, that is convertible between a folding portable
conventional or street wheelchair 512 and a folding portable
specialty wheelchair, in accordance with the present principles,
wherein the folding specialty wheelchair is a folding beach
wheelchair. The folding street wheelchair 512 includes at least
substantially the same features and parts as the street wheelchair
of FIGS. 1 and 2 and, as such, has corresponding parts that are
numbered in the 500's whose tens and digit places correspond to the
corresponding part on the wheelchair 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. These
corresponding parts will not be discussed in detail.
[0051] The folding convertible wheelchair 500 includes specialty
conversion components 502 (shown in exploded view) particularly for
conversion between the folding street wheelchair 512 and a folding
beach wheelchair, the folding beach wheelchair having a standard
duty conversion version and a heavy duty conversion version. In
this embodiment, the folding beach conversion components 502
utilize existing frame, supports, support structures, and/or
attachment structures of the street wheelchair 512.
[0052] The conversion components 502 has a first front wheel
assembly 590a and a second front wheel assembly 590b. The first
front wheel assembly 590a is configured to replace the existing
first front wheel assembly 518a while the second front wheel
assembly 590b is configured to replace the existing second front
wheel assembly 518b. Particularly, the first front wheel assembly
590a is configured for pivotal reception in the existing boss,
pivot structure or support 582a of the frame 513. Likewise, the
second front wheel assembly 590b is configured for pivotal
reception in the existing boss, pivot structure or support 582b of
the frame 513. As such, the first front wheel assembly 590a
includes a robust yoke 592a extending about and rotatably
supporting a low pressure tire 594a via an axle 595a, the low
pressure tire 594a being smaller in diameter than the first rear
tire 584a. A stem 593a extends from the yoke 592a that fits into
the pivot bosses 582a. Likewise, the second front wheel assembly
590b includes a robust yoke 592b extending about and rotatably
supporting a low pressure tire 594b via an axle 595b, the low
pressure tire 594b being smaller in diameter than the second rear
tire 584b. A stem 593b extends from the yoke 592b that fits into
the pivot bosses 582b.
[0053] In the standard duty conversion version, the conversion
components include a first rear large low pressure tire 584a and a
second rear large low pressure tire 584b and corresponding quick
release pins 586a, 586b. Quick release pins 586a and 586b may be
Sky-Loc.TM. Button-Handle pins such as those manufactured by Big
Sky Precision, Inc. of Manhattan, Mont. The first rear large low
pressure tire 584a can be substituted for the existing first rear
wheel 516a (the preferred mode) or may be installed adjacent to the
existing first rear wheel 516a. In both cases, the quick release
pin 586a attaches the first rear large low pressure tire 584a to
the frame after the existing first rear wheel axle is removed. The
second rear large low pressure tire 584b can also be substituted
for the existing second rear wheel 516b (the preferred mode) or may
be installed adjacent to the existing second rear wheel 516b. In
both cases, the quick release pin 586b attaches the second rear
large low pressure tire 584b to the frame after the existing second
rear wheel axle is removed. Other manners or methods of providing
quick release may be used such as thumb screws, wing nuts, knobs or
the like.
[0054] In the heavy duty conversion version, the conversion
components 502 do not utilize the quick release pins 586a, 586b to
attach the first and second rear low pressure wheels 584a, 584b to
the frame, but includes a rear axle 550 (shown in dashed line to
represent an alternate conversion components version) that is
supported through the existing axle bores of the frame 513 that
support the first and second existing wheels 516a and 516b of the
portable street wheelchair 512. The first rear large low pressure
tire 584a is received over an end of the rear axle 550 that extends
beyond the first rear wheel 516a in the case where the first rear
wheel 516a remains on the wheelchair or extends beyond the rear
frame where the wheelchair is sans the first rear wheel 516a.
[0055] A pin 566a (shown in dashed line to represent an alternate
conversion components version) extends through a bore 551a in the
end of the axle 550. The second rear large low pressure tire 584b
is received over an end of the rear axle 550 that extends beyond
the second rear wheel 516b in the case where the second rear wheel
516b remains on the wheelchair or extends beyond the rear frame
where the wheelchair is sans the second rear wheel 516b. A pin 566b
(shown in dashed line to represent an alternate conversion
components version) extends through a bore 551b in the end of the
axle 550. Again, other manners or methods of providing quick
release may be used such as thumb screws, wing nuts, knobs or the
like.
[0056] According to an aspect of the present invention, the folding
convertible wheelchair converts between one type of folding
specialty wheelchair and another type of folding specialty
wheelchair, rather than from a folding street wheelchair to a
folding specialty wheelchair as previously taught. In the versions
shown in FIGS. 1-8, 11 and 13, the folding specialty wheelchair is
a folding beach wheelchair, with the versions shown in FIGS. 9-10,
and 12, described below, the folding specialty wheelchair is a
folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair. Thus, the folding beach
wheelchair is convertible into the folding all-terrain wheelchair
and vice versa using the various components and principles provided
herein.
[0057] Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, there is shown a folding
convertible wheelchair, generally designated 200 fashioned in
accordance with the present principles, that is convertible between
a folding conventional or street wheelchair 12 (see FIG. 1) and a
folding specialty wheelchair, which in this case, is a folding
all-terrain or trail wheelchair 200 when specialty conversion
components 102 are made part of and/or installed on the wheelchair
12. The wheelchair 12 has a folding lightweight frame 13. The frame
13 supports a seat 14 and a back 15, brake assembly 80, as well as
armrests, user hand holds, hand brakes, and other typical
wheelchair elements shown and not shown such as that described with
respect to the wheelchair 12 of FIG. 1.
[0058] The folding all-terrain conversion components 102 include
first and second rear tires 84a, 84b with associated first and
second axle bolts 86a, 86b and nuts 87a, 87b, and first and second
front wheel assemblies 90a, 90b. The first and second rear tires
84a, 84b can either be connected adjacent to or replace the first
and second rear street wheels 16a, 16b and their associated
axles/axle bolt and nuts. The rear all-terrain tires 84a, 84b have
a wider tread than the first and second rear street wheels 16a, 16b
and are more robust than the first and second street wheels 16a,
16b such as solid tires or high pressure tube or tubeless tires. In
the case where the first and second rear tires 84a, 84b replace the
first and second rear wheels 16a, 16b, the first and second rear
tires 84a, 84b have a diameter that is greater than the diameter of
the first and second rear wheels 16a, 16b. In both cases, the first
rear tire 84a is coupled to a rear frame member via a first rear
axle bolt 86a. The first rear axle bolt 86a extends through a
washer 99a and a sleeve 97a that is received in the hub of the tire
84a. A tubular spacer 98a and washer 99c are provided between the
inside of the tire 84a and the rear frame member or the existing
first rear wheel 16a. The first rear axle bolt 86a likewise extends
through these conversion components while a nut 87a is received on
the threaded end of the bolt 86a that extends through the rear
frame member. A wing nut, knob or other securing means may be used
in place of the nut 87a.
[0059] Likewise, in both cases, the second rear tire 84b is coupled
to a rear frame member via a second rear axle bolt 86b. The second
rear axle bolt 86b extends through a washer 99b and a sleeve 97b
that is received in the hub of the tire 84b. A tubular spacer 98b
and washer 99d are provided between the inside of the tire 84b and
the rear frame member or the existing second rear wheel 16a. The
second rear axle bolt 86b likewise extends through these conversion
components while a nut 87b is received on the threaded end of the
bolt 86b that extends through the rear frame member. A wing nut,
knob or other securing means may be used in place of the nut
87b.
[0060] The first and second front all-terrain wheel assemblies 90a,
90b of the conversion components 102 replace the first and second
front street wheel assemblies 18a, 18b of the street wheelchair.
The first and second front all-terrain wheel assemblies 90a, 90b
each have a respective robust yoke 92a, 92b supporting a wider,
more robust all-terrain or trail front tire 94a, 94b. A stem 93a,
93b extends from the respective yoke 92a, 92b that fits into the
respective existing pivot bosses, supports or structures 82a, 82b
of the frame 13, the pivot bosses being existing front wheel
supports or structures. The first front all-terrain tire 94a is
rotatably connected to the yoke 92a via a first front wheel
assembly axle 95a. Clip pins 96, attachable to ends of the axle 95a
that extend beyond arms of the yoke 92a, retain the first front
tire 94a on the yoke 92a. Likewise, the second front all-terrain
tire 94b is rotatably connected to the yoke 92b via a second front
wheel assembly axle 95b. Clip pins 96, attachable to ends of the
axle 95b that extend beyond arms of the yoke 92b, retain the second
front tire 94b on the yoke 92b.
[0061] During conversion from the folding street wheelchair 12 to
the folding all-terrain wheelchair 200, the first and second rear
street wheels 16a, 16b and their axles are removed and replaced
with the present first and second rear all-terrain wheels 84a, 84b
and axles 86a, 86b of the all-terrain conversion components 102.
The first and second front wheel assemblies 18a, 18b are removed
and replace with the present first and second front all-terrain
wheel assemblies 90a, 90b of the all-terrain conversion components
102. Conversion from the folding all-terrain wheelchair 200 to the
street wheelchair 12 is accomplished by replacing the first and
second front wheel assemblies 90a, 90b with the first and second
front wheel assemblies 18a, 18b and the first and second rear tires
84a, 84b with the first and second rear wheels 16a, 16b. It can be
appreciated that the all-terrain conversion components 102 provide
a folding all-terrain wheelchair from a folding street wheelchair
that can easily navigate off-road terrain. The conversion
components of the folding all-terrain wheelchair 200 are used in
converting the folding all-terrain wheelchair 200 to a folding
beach wheelchair 600 as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 and vice versa,
thus the folding all-terrain wheelchair is one type of folding
specialty wheelchair and the folding beach wheelchair is a second
type of folding specialty wheelchair.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 12, there is depicted another
embodiment of a folding convertible wheelchair, generally
designated 400, that is convertible between a folding conventional
or street wheelchair 412 and a folding specialty wheelchair, in
accordance with the present principles, wherein the folding
specialty wheelchair is a folding all-terrain or trail wheelchair,
the folding trail wheelchair having a standard duty conversion
version and a heavy duty conversion version. The folding street
wheelchair 412 includes at least substantially the same features
and parts as the folding street wheelchair of FIGS. 1 and 2 and, as
such, has corresponding parts that are numbered in the 400's whose
tens and digit places correspond to the corresponding part on the
wheelchair 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. These corresponding parts will not
be discussed in detail. The folding convertible wheelchair 400
includes specialty conversion components 402 (shown in exploded
view) particularly for conversion between the folding street
wheelchair 412 and a folding all-terrain, trail and/or beach
wheelchair. In this embodiment, the conversion components 402
utilize existing frame, supports, support structures, and/or
attachment structures of the folding street wheelchair 412.
[0063] The conversion components 402 include a first front wheel
assembly 490a and a second front wheel assembly 490b. The first
front wheel assembly 490a is configured to replace the existing
first front wheel assembly 418a while the second front wheel
assembly 490b is configured to replace the existing second front
wheel assembly 418b. Particularly, the first front wheel assembly
490a is configured for pivotal reception in the existing boss,
pivot structure or support 482a of the frame 413. Likewise, the
second front wheel assembly 490b is configured for pivotal
reception in the existing boss, pivot structure or support 482b of
the frame 413. As such, the first front wheel assembly 490a
includes a robust yoke 492a extending about and rotatably
supporting an all-terrain or trail tire 494a via an axle 495a, the
trail tire 494a being smaller in diameter than the first rear tire
484a. A stem 493a extends from the yoke 492a that fits into the
pivot boss or support 482a. Likewise, the second front wheel
assembly 490b includes a robust yoke 492b extending about and
rotatably supporting an all-terrain or trail tire 494b via an axle
495b, the trail tire 494b being smaller in diameter than the second
rear tire 484b. A stem 493b extends from the yoke 492b that fits
into the pivot boss or support 482b. It can be appreciated that the
folding all-terrain conversion components 102 provide a folding
all-terrain wheelchair from a folding street wheelchair that can
easily navigate off-road terrain.
[0064] In the standard duty conversion version, the conversion
components include a first rear large low pressure tire 484a and a
second rear large low pressure tire 484b and corresponding quick
release pins 486a, 486b. Quick release pins 586a and 586b may be
Sky-Loc.TM. Button-Handle pins such as those manufactured by Big
Sky Precision, Inc. of Manhattan, Mont. The first rear large low
pressure tire 484a can be substituted for the existing first rear
wheel 416a (the preferred mode) or may be installed adjacent to the
existing first rear wheel 416a. In both cases, the quick release
pin 486a attaches the first rear large low pressure tire 484a to
the frame after the existing first rear wheel axle is removed. The
second rear large low pressure tire 484b can also be substituted
for the existing second rear wheel 416b (the preferred mode) or may
be installed adjacent to the existing second rear wheel 416b. In
both cases, the quick release pin 486b attaches the second rear
large low pressure tire 484b to the frame after the existing second
rear wheel axle is removed. Other manners or methods of providing
quick release may be used such as thumb screws, wing nuts, knobs or
the like.
[0065] In the heavy duty conversion version, the conversion
components 402 do not utilize the quick release pins 486a, 486b to
attach the first and second rear low pressure wheels 484a, 484b to
the frame, but includes a rear axle 450 (shown in dashed line to
represent an alternate conversion components version). The rear
axle 450 is supported through the existing axle bores of the frame
413 that support the first and second existing wheels 416a and 416b
of the street wheelchair 412. The first rear large low pressure
tire 484a is received over an end of the rear axle 450 that extends
beyond the first rear wheel 416a in the case where the first rear
wheel 416a remains on the wheelchair or extends beyond the rear
frame where the wheelchair is sans the first rear wheel 416a. A pin
466a (shown in dashed line to represent an alternate conversion
version) extends through a bore 451a at an end of the axle 450. The
second rear large low pressure tire 484b is received over an end of
the rear axle 450 that extends beyond the second rear wheel 416b in
the case where the second rear wheel 416b remains on the wheelchair
or extends beyond the rear frame where the wheelchair is sans the
second rear wheel 416b. A pin 466b (shown in dashed line to
represent an alternate conversion version) extends through a bore
451b at an end of the axle 450. The pins 466a, 466b are a quick
release type pin such as described above. Other manners or methods
of providing quick release may be used such as thumb screws, wing
nuts, knobs or the like.
[0066] The various brackets, mounting structures and the like shown
and described herein are exemplary of brackets, mounting structures
and the like that may be used to provide conversion between the
conventional wheelchair and the specialty wheelchair. Thus,
variations and modifications to the brackets, mounting structures
and the like are anticipated and contemplated. Likewise, the
various hardware shown and described herein for attaching or
mounting the various conversion components to the conventional
wheelchair to make the specialty wheelchair are likewise exemplary
of hardware that may be used to provide conversion between the
conventional wheelchair and the specialty wheelchair. Thus, other
types of hardware are anticipated and contemplated.
[0067] Other folding specialty wheelchairs may be provided by
allowing attachment and/or replacement of components of the folding
street wheelchair with other folding specialty wheelchair
components. For instance, a water wheelchair may be provided by
allowing attachment of oversized, floating "paddle" tires. Other
variations are contemplated.
[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, there is depicted another
embodiment of a folding convertible wheelchair, generally
designated 600, that is 1) convertible between a folding
conventional or street wheelchair and a folding specialty
wheelchair 612, in accordance with the present principles, wherein
the folding specialty wheelchair is a folding beach wheelchair,
and/or 2) convertible between a folding specialty wheelchair of one
type (i.e. a folding beach wheelchair 600) and a folding specialty
wheelchair of another type (i.e. a folding all-terrain wheelchair
200). The beach wheelchair 600 includes at least substantially the
same features and parts as the street/beach wheelchair of FIGS. 1
and 2 and, as such, has corresponding parts that are numbered in
the 600's whose tens and digit places correspond to the
corresponding part on the wheelchair 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. These
corresponding parts will not be discussed in detail. The embodiment
depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15 also illustrates a dedicated beach
wheelchair 612 that is created by pre-configuration using the
conversion components described below. This provides a dedicated
portable and folding beach wheelchair.
[0069] The folding convertible wheelchair 612 includes specialty
conversion components particularly for conversion between the
folding street wheelchair and/or folding all-terrain wheelchair and
a folding beach wheelchair. In this embodiment, the folding beach
conversion components utilize the existing folding frame 613,
supports, support structures, and/or attachment structures of the
wheelchair.
[0070] The conversion components include right and left rear wheels
684a, 684b comprising oversized, low-pressure tires such as the
oversized, low pressure front right and left wheels/tires 32a, 32b
of the wheelchair 20 of FIGS. 1 and 2 (or the rear right and left
wheels/tires 584a, 584b of the wheelchair 500 of FIG. 13. The right
and left rear wheels 684a, 684b are adapted to connect over or
replace (with replacement shown in FIGS. 14 and 15) the existing
street wheelchair wheels (not seen in FIGS. 14 and 15) such as
described in connection with wheelchairs 20 and 500.
[0071] The converted folding beach wheelchair 600 includes right
and left wheel stops 680a and 680b that are attached to right and
left sides of the wheelchair frame 613 adjacent the right and left
wheels 684a, 684b respectively. The right stop 680a is manually
operated, typically, but not necessarily, by a user of the
wheelchair, and includes linkage 697a bracketed to the frame 613
that operatively connects a handle 698a to a friction stop or pad
696a (e.g. a rubber stop). Manipulation of the handle 698a moves
the linkage 697a to engage the stop 696a against the wheel 684a (a
wheel lock position inhibiting rotation of the wheel) and disengage
the stop 698a from being against the wheel 684a (a wheel unlock
position allowing free rotation of the wheel). The left stop 680b
is also manually operated, typically, but not necessarily, by a
user of the wheelchair, and includes linkage 697b bracketed to the
frame 613 that operatively connects a handle 698b to a friction
stop or pad 696b (e.g. a rubber stop). Manipulation of the handle
698b moves the linkage 697b to engage the stop 696b against the
wheel 684b (a wheel lock position inhibiting rotation of the wheel)
and disengage the stop 698b from being against the wheel 684b (a
wheel unlock position allowing free rotation of the wheel).
[0072] At least some of the specialty conversion components are
preferably, but not necessarily, pre-mounted or installed on the
wheelchair 612. For instance, a first or right front conversion
bracket 624a is attached to right front frame members of the
wheelchair proximate the wheelchair's original front wheel hub 682a
via threaded U-bolts and nuts at a first front side of the frame
613 in like manner to the right rear bracket 24a of the wheelchair
20 of FIGS. 1 and 2, while a second or left front conversion
bracket 624b is attached to left front frame members of the
wheelchair proximate the wheelchair's original wheel hub 682b via
threaded bolts and nuts at a second front side of the frame 513 in
like manner to the left rear bracket 24b of the wheelchair 20 of
FIGS. 1 and 2. For details regarding the brackets 624a, 624b,
reference is made to the above description of brackets 24a,
24b.
[0073] The first front conversion bracket 624a supports a first
front wheel conversion assembly 626a while the second front
conversion bracket 624b supports a second front wheel conversion
assembly 626b that together support the front end of the wheelchair
such that the front end of the wheelchair 612 is elevated with
respect to (e.g. is higher than) the rear end of the wheelchair 612
as best seen in FIG. 15. This backwards tilt allows the rider to
sit more rearwardly in the seat 614 while the rider's legs are
elevated. However, the conversion components may also be configured
to provide a level and not tilted seating if desired. To hold the
rider's legs up, a foot strap 699 is provided between the arms
672a, 672b of the first and second front wheel conversion assembly
626am 626b. The foot strap 699 is attached to the arms 672a, 672b
so as to swing relative to the arms 672a, 672b. Foot stops (not
shown) may be additionally, or alternately provided.
[0074] The first and second front wheel conversion assemblies 626a,
626b are preferably, but not necessarily, the same configuration as
the rear wheel conversion assemblies 26a, 26b of the wheelchair 12
of FIG. 1. Consequently, the detailed description of the rear wheel
conversion assemblies with regard to the wheelchair 12 is
incorporated herein. The first front wheel conversion assembly 626a
an oversized, low pressure tire 628a (smaller than the rear tires
684a, 684b of the wheelchair) mounted on an axle that is supported
by a yoke 666a. A stem 677a is rotatably mounted to and extends
vertically from the yoke 666a to a connection assembly 668a. The
yoke 666a is thus attached to the stem 677a such that the yoke 666a
and thus the tire 628a can swivel or rotate about the connection
assembly 668a. The stem 677a is particularly connected to a lower
plate 669a of the connection assembly 668a which, in turn, is
connected to an upper plate 670a of the connection assembly 668a.
The upper plate 670a supports an arm 672a. The arm 672a is received
in a tube (not seen) of the conversion bracket 624a. While not
seen, the arm 672a has a bore that aligns with a bore of the tube
of the conversion bracket 624a and which receives a D-pin of the
like when the arm 672a is inserted into the tube. The front rear
wheel conversion assembly 626a is thus easily attachable then
detachable from the bracket 624a. The second front wheel conversion
assembly 626b is the same as the first front wheel conversion
assembly 626a and thus the description with respect to the first
front wheel conversion assembly 626a applies and is incorporated
herein by reference. It can be appreciated that this conversion
wheelchair, beach version 600 comfortably and securely holds a
rider due to is tilt, large rear tires that do not pivot relative
to the wheelchair frame, and front tires that do pivot with respect
to the wheelchair frame. The wheelchair 600 is thus easily useable
on all types and terrains and sands of various beaches. In another
form, the front wheels may be fixed with respect to the wheelchair
frame.
[0075] The various foldable beach wheelchairs shown and described
herein are all convertible into the various foldable all-terrain
wheelchairs shown and described herein via the various conversion
components shown and described herein as well as the components of
the embodiments as shown and described.
[0076] It should be appreciated that various mechanisms not
particularly shown may be used for the various structures and or
mechanisms shown herein. Thus, while the invention has been
illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing
description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not
restrictive in character, it being understood that only preferred
embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes
and/or modifications that come within the spirit of the invention
are desired to be protected.
* * * * *