Patent · US Expired

Step-negotiating vehicle

US4627508A · kind A · utility

20Cited by
6References
30Claims
0Family size

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateDec 11, 1984
Grant dateDec 9, 1986
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 11, 2004

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB62D55/075
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A step-negotiating vehicle comprises a low-level chassis structure with motor-driven tracks, for carrying a load such as a wheelchair. The vehicle is provided with an extension support means to increase the support area defined by the track assembly, which is limited by the dimensions of the chassis structure, thereby to enhance stability of the vehicle. Associated with the respective tracks are support rollers for supporting and moving the vehicle when travelling on at least substantially level ground. The arrangement of the support rollers is such that, after the vehicle has negotiated steps, the rollers automatically come into operation on reaching the horizontal ground, without intervention on the part of the person using the vehicle, whereby the vehicle is supported on the rollers, without, however, the rollers interfering with movement of the vehicle up or down steps.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.