Reversible ratchet mechanism
US7341267B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 23, 2005 |
| Grant date | Mar 11, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 19, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/18056
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A reversible ratchet mechanism includes a pair of roller clutches set to operate in opposite directions when engaged by a belt. During the forward motion of the ratchet assembly in either direction of propulsion of the belt, one roller clutch is disengaged while the other is engaged and locked, thereby propelling the belt. During the backward stroke, the engaged roller clutch is free to rotate. The result is that the reciprocating motion of the assembly is converted into the linear motion of the belt. The ratchet assembly includes a shift mechanism to reverse the engagement of the roller clutches and change the direction of propulsion of the belt produced by the push/pull action of the operator. The invention is advantageously used in conjunction with a wheelchair.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.