WO2025157381A1

WO2025157381A1 - Convertible mobility apparatus with rotatable handle assembly for wheelchair and rollator modes

Info

Publication number: WO2025157381A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/051378
Authority: WO
Inventors: Feyaz SHAHO
Original assignee: Expandio BV
Current assignee: Expandio BV
Priority date: 2024-01-22
Filing date: 2024-01-22
Publication date: 2025-07-31
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-22

Abstract

This invention concerns a mobility apparatus with a dual-functionality design, enabling it to operate as both a rollator and a wheelchair, and a handle assembly for facilitating said transition. The apparatus features a frame with a pair of vertical supports, each topped with a housing base, and the handle assembly mounted atop said supports. The handle assembly comprises a handle housing, rotatably coupled to a housing base and equipped with a horizontal handlebar. The rotation mechanism involves a circular pivot shaft that runs through the handle housing. This shaft includes a circular protrusion at its lower end, extending into the housing base and featuring a horizontal slot with widened sections at each end. A key aspect of this design is the locking assembly within the housing base, consisting of a locking pin with a first end and a body. The first end of the pin engages with the widened sections of the slot to lock the pivot shaft, while the body allows for its rotation when aligned with the slot. This arrangement enables the handle housing and pivot shaft to rotate 180 degrees, facilitating the switch between wheelchair and rollator modes in the mobility apparatus.

Description

Title: Convertible Mobility Apparatus with Rotatable Handle Assembly for Wheelchair and Rollator

Modes

Field of Invention.

[001] The present invention relates generally to the field of mobility aids, specifically to an apparatus that can be alternately used as a rollator and a wheelchair. It focuses on an innovative handle assembly mechanism that facilitates easy transition between the two modes.

Background

[002] In the realm of mobility aids, combination rollator and wheelchair devices have emerged as vital tools for individuals with limited mobility. These devices typically offer the dual functionality of a rollator, which assists in walking, and a wheelchair, which provides seated mobility. However, the current market offerings for such combination devices exhibit significant drawbacks, particularly in the mode transition mechanism.

[003] The conventional design of combination rollator/wheelchair devices often necessitates cumbersome and physically demanding operations to switch between modes. This process generally involves the removal and reinsertion of the handles' shaft, which must be rotated 180 degrees to transition from one mode to the other. While these actions may not pose a challenge for individuals with full mobility, they represent a substantial obstacle for the primary users of these devices, who are typically those with restricted physical capabilities.

[004] This complexity in transitioning modes can detract from the user's independence and ease of use, often requiring assistance from a caregiver. This dependency not only limits the user's autonomy but also impacts the caregiver, adding to the physical strain and time required for operation. The process is not only physically demanding but also time-consuming and may discourage users from fully utilizing the device's dual functionality.

[005] Moreover, the necessity for disassembly and reassembly in the transition phase increases the risk of wear and tear on the device, potentially compromising its durability and reliability over time. This can lead to increased maintenance costs and the need for more frequent replacements, both of which are burdensome for the user.

[006] The limitations inherent in the current design of combination rollator/wheelchair devices, specifically the strenuous and complex process required to switch between modes, highlight a significant gap in the market. There is a clear demand for an improved design that addresses these issues, offering a more user-friendly, efficient, and durable solution for individuals with limited mobility.

[007] It is within this context that the present invention is provided.

Summary

[008] The present invention relates to a mobility apparatus designed to transition seamlessly between a rollator and a wheelchair through the integration of a novel handle assembly that allows for quick and easy mode transition without necessitating strenuous movements or disassembly.

[009] The mobility apparatus comprises a frame with a pair of vertical supports, each having a housing base mounted at the top. A handle housing is rotatably coupled to each housing base via a circular pivot shaft. The pivot shaft comprises a circular protrusion that extends into a circular opening in the housing base, ensuring a snug fit and stable rotation. A feature of the pivot shaft is its horizontal slot with widened sections at each end. This design element interacts with a locking assembly within the housing base, comprising a locking pin and a sliding bushing. The locking pin's engagement with the widened sections of the horizontal slot allows for the secure locking of the pivot shaft in the desired orientation. Each handle housing is equipped with a horizontal handlebar, the orientation of which, controlled by the rotating mechanism, determines the mobility apparatus' mode as either a wheelchair or a rollator.

[010] Optionally, the locking assembly may include a spring to bias the locking pin towards a locked position. Additionally, some embodiments feature a button cover made of flexible material for ease of operation by the user.

[Oil] The pivot shaft, in some embodiments, also includes a vertical slot that aids in the assembly and disassembly of the handle housing with the housing base. Further, the pivot shaft may contain multiple slots and holes to accommodate additional components, and it can be connected to the handle housing using various methods, such as over-molding technology or a press fit.

[012] In certain embodiments, the mobility apparatus incorporates ergonomically designed retractable footbar rests, which contribute to the apparatus's versatility by allowing for a reduction in overall length when in rollator mode. [013] The chair back of the mobility apparatus may also be mounted on hinged joints, so that the orientation of the curved surface may be flipped 180 degrees when transitioning from wheelchair to rollator mode, providing the user with more space to stand.

[014] According to another aspect of the present application a handle assembly for a mobility apparatus is provided. This assembly includes a housing base mountable to a vertical support. The assembly includes a handle housing, which is rotatably coupled to the housing base via a circular pivot shaft. The pivot shaft, running centrally through the handle housing, comprises a circular protrusion that extends into a circular opening of the housing base. The pivot shaft comprises a horizontal slot, including widened sections at each end, which interacts with a locking assembly within the housing base. This assembly, consisting of a locking pin and sliding bushing, enables the pivot shaft to rotate 180 degrees between positions correlating to wheelchair and rollator modes.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[015] Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[016] FIG. 1A illustrates an isometric perspective view of the mobility apparatus in wheelchair mode, showing the vertical supports and the orientation of the handlebars.

[017] FIG. IB illustrates a side view of the mobility apparatus in wheelchair mode, highlighting the positioning of the retractable footbar rests.

[018] FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric perspective view of the mobility apparatus in rollator mode, with the handles oriented towards the front of the chair.

[019] FIG. 2B illustrates a side view of the mobility apparatus in rollator mode, showing the retractable footbar rests in a folded position.

[020] FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view of an example handle housing and handlebar, demonstrating their design and assembly.

[021] FIG. 3B illustrates an isometric view of the handle housing mounted on top of a housing base via a pivot shaft, showing the push button for the locking mechanism. [022] FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the handle housing and handlebar on the housing base, revealing the internal locking mechanism.

[023] FIG. 4 illustrates a close-up cross-sectional view of the pivot shaft with the locking pin in place, locking the rotational movement.

[024] FIG. 5A illustrates an isometric perspective view of an example pivot shaft, detailing its structural features.

[025] FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the pivot shaft, further detailing its design and components.

[026] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures and the detailed description to indicate like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the above figures are examples and that other architectures, modes of operation, orders of operation, and elements/functions can be provided and implemented without departing from the characteristics and features of the invention, as set forth in the claims.

Detailed Description and Preferred Embodiment

[027] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalent; it is limited only by the claims.

[028] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured.

DEFINITIONS:

[029] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[030] As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. [031] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[032] It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[033] As used herein, the term "frame" refers to the main structural component of the mobility apparatus and is intended to encompass various forms and materials suitable for providing structural support. The frame may include additional elements or features that contribute to the overall functionality and stability of the mobility apparatus.

[034] The term "vertical supports," as used in this specification, refers to components that are substantially upright or perpendicular to the base of the frame. These supports may be of various shapes, sizes, and materials and are not limited to purely vertical orientations but may include supports positioned at angles that still provide the necessary support and functionality.

[035] The term "locking assembly," as used in this document, refers to a mechanism or set of components that enables the locking and unlocking of the pivot shaft's rotational movement. This assembly may include various types of locking mechanisms, pins, and additional elements that aid in securing the pivot shaft in a desired position.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[036] The present invention relates to a mobility apparatus that serves dual functions as a rollator and a wheelchair. This apparatus is designed to address the need for a versatile mobility aid that can easily transition between assisting in walking (as a rollator) and providing a seated mode of transportation (as a wheelchair). The central feature of this invention is a handle assembly that enables the user to switch between these two modes very quickly, and without the need for disassembly or excessive physical effort.

[037] Referring now to FIG. 1A, an isometric perspective view of the mobility apparatus in wheelchair mode is provided. The frame 100 includes a pair of vertical supports 102 positioned either side of what becomes the chair back 104 in this mode. The vertical supports 102 support the user's weight in both wheelchair and rollator modes, and their height can be adjusted independently of back support 104 by pressing button 103 in this example configuration. At the top of each vertical support a housing base 106 is firmly mounted. A handle housing 108 is rotatably coupled to each housing base 106 via the circular pivot shaft 110 that forms the core of the present invention. Each handle housing 108 has a horizontal handlebar 118, the position/orientation of which determines whether the mobility apparatus 100 is in wheelchair mode or rollator mode.

[038] As shown, the chair back 104 of the mobility apparatus is mounted on hinged joints, so that the orientation of the curved surface may be flipped 180 degrees when transitioning from wheelchair to rollator mode, providing the user with more space to stand.

[039] FIG. IB shows a side view of the apparatus in wheelchair mode, illustrates the positioning of the retractable footbar rests 140 in an unfolded position. These footbar rests 140 are designed ergonomically to provide comfort and support to the user's feet when the apparatus is used as a wheelchair.

[040] In FIG. 2A, an isometric perspective view of the mobility apparatus in rollator mode is shown. The handles are oriented towards the front of the chair, facilitating use as a walking aid. The vertical supports 102 and frame 100 maintain their structural roles in this mode as well. The chair back 104 has also been flipped as described above.

[041] In FIG. 2B, a side view of the apparatus in rollator mode, depicts the retractable footbar rests 140 in a folded position. This configuration reduces the overall volume occupied by the apparatus, enhancing its compactness and ease of storage.

[042] FIG. 3A presents an isometric view of an exemplary handle housing 108 and handlebar 118.

[043] In FIG. 3B, an isometric view shows the handle housing 108 installed atop a housing base 106 via a pivot shaft (not illustrated). A push button cover 130 for the locking mechanism, integrated into the housing base 106, is visible on the side, providing a means for controlling the handle housing's rotational position.

[044] FIG. 3C provides a cross-sectional view of the handle housing 108 and handlebar 118 installed on the housing base 106 via the pivot shaft 110. This view reveals the internal spring- biased locking mechanism, highlighting the interplay between the locking pin 126 and the pivot shaft 110. These are explained in greater detail in relation to FIG.4. [045] FIG. 4 focuses on a close-up cross-sectional view of the pivot shaft 110, with the locking pin 126 inserted through the widened section of the horizontal slot 120. This configuration effectively locks the rotational movement of the pivot shaft 110 and, consequently, the handle housing 108.

[046] As can be seen, the pivot shaft 110 is securely coupled to the handle housing 108, running through its centre, and has a circular protrusion 112 at its bottom end which extends down into a circular opening 114 of the housing base 106, fitting snugly therein. The main body 116 of the pivot shaft may be of a greater diameter than the diameter of the opening 114 and protrusion 112 to prevent the pivot shaft from slipping downwards.

[047] The protrusion 112 of the pivot shaft 110 has a horizontal slot 120 of a first width spanning half of its circumference, with a pair of widened sections 122 at each end. The widened sections 122 have a second, larger width, and are positioned on opposing sides of the walls of the protrusion 112.

[048] The housing base 106 has a side wall opening in which a locking assembly 124 is installed. The locking assembly comprises at minimum a locking pin 126 and a sliding bushing 128. The locking pin 126 is inserted through the sliding bushing 128, which in turn is installed in the side wall opening of the housing base 106.

[049] One end 130 of the locking pin 126 has a width approximately equal to the second width of the widened sections 122 of the protrusion 112, whereas the width of the remaining length of the body 132 of then locking pin 126 is approximately equal to the first width of the horizontal slot 120. Thus, when the end 130 of the locking pin rests within one of the widened sections 122 of the horizontal slot, rotation of the pivot shaft 110 is locked. But when the locking pin 126 is pressed inward through the sliding bushing 128, the thinner body 132 of the locking pin is able to pass through the horizontal slot 120, allowing the pivot shaft 110 to rotate 180 degrees between the two widened sections 122, and thus causing the handle housing 108 and bars to rotate and switch between rollator and wheelchair mode. The locking pin 126 is then moved back into a locking position on the opposite widened section to lock the mobility apparatus into that mode.

[050] The locking assembly also comprises a spring 134 for biasing the locking pin 126 towards a locked position, and a button cover 130 made of a soft flexible material that protects and contains the assembly. By pressing the button cover 130, a user pushes the locking pin 126 inwards, compressing the spring 134 and releasing the pivot shaft. [051] There is also a vertical slot 136 running from the horizontal slot 120 down to the end of the protrusion 112. This can help with installation when assembling/joining the handle housing with housing base. In this example when a handle is only partially rotated so that the vertical slot 136 aligns with the locking pin, the whole handle housing can be lifted upwards, sliding the locking pin through the vertical slot 136 and disassembling the handles easily without any large movements or disassembly required.

[052] Pivot shaft may also contain multiple slots and holes 138 in order to accommodate a brake handle (not illustrated) as shown.

[053] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B, respectively, offer an isometric perspective and a side view of an example pivot shaft 110 in isolation. These figures detail the structural features of the pivot shaft 110, including the horizontal slot 120, the widened sections 122, and the circular protrusion 112 that interfaces with the housing base 106.

CONCLUSION

[054] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[055] The disclosed embodiments are illustrative, not restrictive. While specific configurations of the mobility apparatus and handle assembly of the invention have been described in a specific manner referring to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the present invention can be applied to a wide variety of solutions which fit within the scope and spirit of the claims. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention.

[056] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention herein described are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. A mobility apparatus comprising: a frame having a pair of vertical supports; a housing base mounted on top of each vertical support; a handle housing rotatably coupled to each housing base, each handle housing having a horizontal handlebar associated with each handle housing; a circular pivot shaft, the pivot shaft running centrally through the handle housing and comprising a circular protrusion at a lower end extending into a circular opening of the housing base, the circular protrusion featuring a horizontal slot spanning half of its circumference, including widened sections at each end of the slot; a locking assembly located within the housing base, the assembly including a locking pin slidably installed in a wall of the housing base, the locking pin having a first end and a body, with the first end configured to engage with the widened sections of the horizontal slot to lock the pivot shaft rotation, and the body of the locking pin configured to allow rotation of the pivot shaft when aligned with the horizontal slot; and wherein the handle housing and pivot shaft are thereby rotatable 180 degrees between two positions corresponding to the wheelchair and rollator modes of the mobility apparatus.

2. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking pin is installed via a sliding bushing installed in an opening of the housing base.

3. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the main body of the pivot shaft has a diameter greater than the diameter of both the circular opening of the housing base and the protrusion, thereby preventing the pivot shaft from slipping downwards.

4. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a spring within the locking assembly, the spring configured to bias the locking pin towards a locked position.

5. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking assembly further includes a button cover made of a flexible material, the button cover being operable to push the locking pin inwards.

6. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot shaft includes a vertical slot extending from the horizontal slot to the end of the protrusion, facilitating the assembly and disassembly of the handle housing with the housing base.

7. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot shaft is connected to the handle housing using over-molding technology.

8. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot shaft is connected to the handle housing using a press fit.

9. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pivot shaft includes multiple slots and holes configured to accommodate additional components of the mobility apparatus.

10. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, further comprising retractable footbar rests, the footbar rests being ergonomically designed and operable to decrease the overall length of the mobility apparatus when in rollator mode.

11. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the chair back of the mobility apparatus is mounted on hinged joints, so that the orientation of the curved surface may be flipped 180 degrees when transitioning from wheelchair to rollator mode, providing the user with more space to stand.

12. A handle assembly for a mobility apparatus, the assembly comprising: a housing base mounted on top of each vertical support; a handle housing rotatably coupled to each housing base, each handle housing having a horizontal handlebar associated with each handle housing; a circular pivot shaft, the pivot shaft running centrally through the handle housing and comprising a circular protrusion at a lower end extending into a circular opening of the housing base, the circular protrusion featuring a horizontal slot spanning half of its circumference, including widened sections at each end of the slot; a locking assembly located within the housing base, the assembly including a locking pin slidably installed in a wall of the housing base, the locking pin having a first end and a body, with the first end configured to engage with the widened sections of the horizontal slot to lock the pivot shaft rotation, and the body of the locking pin configured to allow rotation of the pivot shaft when aligned with the horizontal slot; and wherein the handle housing and pivot shaft are thereby rotatable 180 degrees between two positions corresponding to the wheelchair and rollator modes of the mobility apparatus.