Wheelchair safety lock

US6431572B1 · kind B1 · utility

Inventors

• Jerrell W. Harden · Banks, US
• Russell J. Harden · Banks, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 11, 2001
• Grant date: Aug 13, 2002
• Expiry date: Oct 11, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S297/04
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A wheelchair safety lock with a safety handle that is positioned such that the user of the wheelchair cannot enter or exit the wheelchair without moving the safety handle out of the way. When the safety handle is moved out of the way, the brake of the wheelchair is engaged against the wheels of the wheelchair. In order to operate the wheelchair, the safety handle is moved back into position after the user is seated. The safety handle extends in front of the user above the users lap when the user. is seated in the wheelchair. Therefore, the user cannot exit the wheelchair unless the safety handle is moved, thereby engaging the brake. Similarly, if the safety handle has been moved such that the brake is disengaged, the user can not enter the wheel chair because the safety handle is blocking the entrance. The safety handle must be moved in order to enter the wheelchair, thereby engaging the brake. The safety handle is also useful for the user to hold when declining a steep incline.