Wheelchair and side panel for a wheelchair

Abstract

Wheelchair (1), in particular manual, preferably foldable, wheelchair, comprising - a wheelchair frame (5), - a first rear wheel (70) and a second rear wheel (270), which are spaced apart from each other and which are each connected to the wheelchair frame (5) and rotatably mounted on the wheelchair frame (5), - a seating area (150) that is at least partially located between the first rear wheel (70) and the second rear wheel (270), - a first side panel (10) and a second side panel (210), each connected to the wheelchair frame (5), wherein the first side panel (10) is arranged immediately adjacent to the first rear wheel (70) and at least partially on a side of the first rear wheel (70) facing the seat area (150), and wherein the second side panel (210) is arranged immediately adjacent to the second rear wheel (270) and at least partially on a side of the second rear wheel (270) facing the seat area (150), characterized in that the first side panel (10) comprises a side wall element (11) with an outer contour (14a), wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side panel (10) is movable relative to the wheelchair frame (5) between a position in use and a position out of use along a circular arc (130),that the outer contour (14a) of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) essentially follows the outer circumference (70a) of the first rear wheel (70).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a wheelchair and a side panel for a wheelchair. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of a side panel on a wheelchair.

[0002] Wheelchairs typically consist of a frame, two rear wheels spaced apart, and a seat located between the rear wheels. Wheelchairs are usually equipped with side panels. Side panels are primarily designed to prevent the clothing of a wheelchair user sitting on the seat from coming into contact with the rear wheels. They can also protect the user by reducing the risk of fingers getting caught in the spokes and becoming trapped. Furthermore, the side panels often serve as a base for armrests, providing a comfortable place for the user to rest their arms.

[0003] It is known, for example from EP0827729A2 and DE19730717A1, to arrange side panels pivotably on a wheelchair. The side panels are each rotatably mounted by means of a bearing connected to the wheelchair frame, which is located at the rear end of the respective side panel relative to the direction of travel, so that the side panels can be pivoted about this bearing between a working position and a non-working position. While the side panels are normally in the working position during movement, pivoting the side panels into the non-working position can, for example, facilitate the transfer of the wheelchair user into or out of the wheelchair.

[0004] One disadvantage of existing wheelchairs is that the swiveling side panels are usually quite heavy, making the overall weight of the wheelchair relatively high. This makes both propulsion and transport more difficult. Another disadvantage of existing wheelchairs is that the side panels are relatively large, so that they can still protect the wheels even if they are repositioned or the wheels are changed. This is another reason why existing wheelchairs typically have a relatively high weight.

[0005] Another disadvantage of known wheelchairs of this type is that the pivoting side panels typically do not have a shape adapted to the respective rear wheel. This can restrict the wheelchair user's freedom of movement.

[0006] Another disadvantage of known wheelchairs of this type is that a person sitting in the wheelchair typically has to perform an ergonomically difficult and / or uncomfortable movement to swivel the side panels, as the arms have to be moved relatively far back and upwards when swiveling.

[0007] Another disadvantage of known wheelchairs of this type is that when the side panels are swivelled, they are often positioned in a way that can be bothersome to the wheelchair user and / or relatively unstable, as they are typically attached at only one point.

[0008] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing an improved solution that addresses at least one of the aforementioned problems. In particular, it is an objective of the invention to provide a solution by means of which a side panel of a wheelchair can be moved more easily between a working position and a non-working position.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, the problem is solved by a wheelchair with the features of claim 1. According to this claim, a wheelchair, in particular a manual wheelchair, which is preferably foldable, is provided. The wheelchair comprises a wheelchair frame, a first rear wheel and a second rear wheel, which are spaced apart from one another and which are each connected to and rotatably mounted on the wheelchair frame. Furthermore, the wheelchair comprises a seat area, which is at least partially arranged between the first rear wheel and the second rear wheel.Furthermore, the wheelchair comprises a first side panel and a second side panel, each connected to the wheelchair frame, wherein the first side panel is located immediately adjacent to the first rear wheel and at least partially on a side of the first rear wheel facing the seating area, and wherein the second side panel is located immediately adjacent to the second rear wheel and at least partially on a side of the second rear wheel facing the seating area.

[0010] According to the invention, the first side part comprises a side wall element with an outer contour, wherein the side wall element of the first side part is movable relative to the wheelchair frame between a use position and a non-use position along a circular arc such that the outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0011] A wheelchair with a first side panel is therefore proposed, wherein the first side panel has a side wall element that is movable between a working position and a non-working position such that, during such a movement, the side wall element is moved with its radially outer contour along an arc of a circle and following the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0012] A primary advantage of such a wheelchair is that the first side panel is movable between a working and a non-working position and, simultaneously, in every position—that is, in the working position, in the non-working position, and in all positions between the working and non-working positions—is arranged such that the outer contour of the side panel follows the first rear wheel and is therefore directly adapted to the outer circumference of the first rear wheel in every position. This allows for a particularly advantageous result: the first side panel protrudes only minimally beyond the rear wheel in every position.As a result, the side panel significantly reduces the wheelchair's freedom of movement compared to known wheelchairs with movable side panels, where the side panel is significantly larger and extends much further from the rear wheel, thus restricting the wheelchair's freedom of movement more.

[0013] Another advantage is that the side panel protrudes only minimally from the first rear wheel in any vertical position. This makes the wheelchair more versatile. For example, it allows the wheelchair to be moved, at least partially, under a table or other object in its operating position.

[0014] Another advantage is that moving the side wall element from the operating position to the non-operating position is significantly easier and can be done using a more ergonomic movement, since to move the side wall element the hand only needs to be moved along the arc of the circle, i.e. essentially along the outer circumference of the first rear wheel, and the hand does not have to be moved upwards as with known movable side panels.

[0015] Another advantage is that, due to the minimal overhang of the side panel relative to the rear wheel, the amount of material required for the side panel can be reduced. This lowers the material costs for manufacturing the side panel. Furthermore, it reduces the weight of the side panel and, consequently, the weight of the wheelchair.

[0016] A manual wheelchair is understood to be, in particular, a wheelchair that is propelled by the user himself or by his or her companion, and is therefore not propelled by a motor.

[0017] A foldable wheelchair is specifically understood to be a wheelchair that can be folded into a transport position to make the wheelchair easier to transport.

[0018] The wheelchair frame preferably comprises several frame tubes, preferably an upper frame tube, a seat tube, a backrest tube and further frame tubes, wherein the frame tubes form the wheelchair frame.

[0019] A seating area is understood to be, in particular, the area in which the wheelchair user sits when using the wheelchair.

[0020] The outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part is to be understood in particular as the outer contour of the side wall element which extends radially outwards along the side wall element with respect to the radial direction of the first rear wheel.

[0021] The operating position refers in particular to the position of the side wall element in which the side wall element is arranged between the first rear wheel and the seating area, thereby providing protection from the first rear wheel for a user sitting in the seating area.

[0022] The non-use position refers in particular to the position of the side wall element in which the side wall element is arranged to the rear in relation to the direction of travel of the wheelchair compared to the use position.

[0023] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part is displaceable along the arc of the circle between the operating position and the non-operating position.

[0024] Preferably, the side wall element of the first side part is movable between its operating position and its non-operating position by sliding the side wall element. An advantage of such movableness is that the side wall element can be moved along a precisely defined path.

[0025] Preferably, the side wall element of the first side part is displaceable by means of a guide, particularly preferably along a guide rail. Such displaceability allows the side wall element to be supported not only at a pivot point in the operating position, in the non-operating position, and in all positions in between, but also along a guide, and in particular along a section, in every position. This ensures that the side wall element has relatively little play in every position, thereby reducing or preventing rattling of the side part and / or the side wall element, and increasing the stability of the side wall element.

[0026] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part is movable along the circular arc in such a way that the side wall element of the first side part is moved about an axis of rotation which is arranged essentially like the wheel axle of the first rear wheel, in particular coincides with the wheel axle of the first rear wheel, and / or which is arranged in the area of ​​the wheel axle of the first rear wheel, in particular near the wheel axle of the first rear wheel.

[0027] Preferably, the side wall element of the first side panel is rotatably arranged about the wheel axis of the first rear wheel. Preferably, both the first rear wheel and the side wall element of the first side panel are rotatable about the wheel axis of the first rear wheel.

[0028] One advantage of such an arrangement of the first side wall element is that the side wall element can be moved in a particularly advantageous way along the outer circumference of the first rear wheel when moving between the operating position and the non-operating position.

[0029] It is particularly preferred that the circular arc along which the side wall element of the first side part is movable has a circular center point which is located below the side wall element of the first side part with respect to the vertical direction, and preferably below the first side part with respect to the vertical direction.

[0030] Preferably, the side wall element is rotatable about an axis of rotation which is arranged in a vertical direction under the first side part and / or below the side wall element of the first side part.

[0031] In particular, the axis of rotation around which the side wall element can be rotated is arranged at a distance from the first side panel and / or the side wall element of the first side panel. This is the case, for example, if this axis of rotation essentially coincides with the wheel axle.

[0032] It is particularly preferred that the circular arc along which the side wall element of the first side part is movable has a circular center point which is located in the area and / or adjacent to a wheel bearing of the first rear wheel and / or which is located in the area and / or below the wheel axle of the first rear wheel with respect to the vertical direction.

[0033] Preferably, the axis of rotation about which the side wall element of the first side panel is movable is arranged in the area of ​​the wheel bearing of the first rear wheel. Preferably, the axis of rotation about which the side wall element of the first side panel is rotatably movable is less than 20 cm, particularly preferably less than 15 cm, and especially less than 10 cm, away from the wheel bearing of the first rear wheel.

[0034] It is particularly preferred that the outer contour of the side wall element is essentially arc-shaped and preferably adapted to the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0035] Preferably, the outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part, particularly in the operating position and in the non-operating position, runs essentially along the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0036] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part has a tire cover area that extends to the outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part.

[0037] Preferably, the side wall element has a tire cover area that extends radially outwards to the outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part.

[0038] Preferably, the tire cover area curves over the tire of the first rear wheel at least in sections, in order to cover the tire of the first rear wheel at least in sections, especially also from above.

[0039] It is particularly preferred that the tire cover area, with respect to the vertical direction, is arranged at least sectionally at the level of the tire of the first rear wheel and adjacent to the tire of the first rear wheel.

[0040] The tire coverage area preferably extends at least partially both laterally to the side of the tire of the first rear wheel and above the tire of the first rear wheel.

[0041] It is particularly preferred that the tire cover area is arranged at least partially above the tire of the first rear wheel with respect to the vertical direction, and preferably that the tire cover area arches over the first rear wheel at least partially.

[0042] One advantage of such a tire cover area is that it provides even better protection for the user from the front rear wheel. Furthermore, such a tire cover area improves splash protection.

[0043] It is particularly preferred that the tire cover area of ​​the side wall element of the first side element has a curved cross-section, so that the tire cover area of ​​the side wall element arches at least partially over the tire of the first rear wheel.

[0044] It is particularly preferred that, in the operating position of the side wall element of the first side part, there is a substantially constant gap between the tire cover area and the tire of the first rear wheel along the tire cover area.

[0045] Preferably, when the side wall element of the first side part moves between the operating position and the non-operating position, the gap between the tire cover area and the tire remains essentially constant.

[0046] Preferably, the side wall element of the first side part is movable between the operating position and the non-operating position in such a way that in every position in between and in the operating position and the non-operating position itself there is a substantially constant gap between the tire cover area and the tire.

[0047] It is particularly preferred that the first side part is detachably connected to the wheelchair frame, in particular to a backrest tube of the wheelchair frame, by means of a fastening element, which preferably has a substantially vertically arranged elongated hole, in particular by means of a screw connection.

[0048] One advantage of such a slotted hole is that the side panel can be adjusted continuously in height. The fastener can be loosened and reattached to the slotted hole in a higher or lower vertical position. This provides a particularly simple and advantageous way to adjust the first side panel vertically.

[0049] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part can be locked in the operating position by means of a locking device, wherein the locking device is connected to the side wall element of the first side wall.

[0050] One advantage of such a locking device is that it allows the side wall element to be fixed in the operating position, so that the side wall element does not unintentionally detach from the operating position.

[0051] Preferably, the locking device has a lever that extends through an opening in the side wall element of the first side part, in particular through an opening in the tire cover area of ​​the first side part.

[0052] One advantage of such a locking device is that the locking device can be relatively compact and only the lever needs to be led out of the side wall element, thus enabling a particularly slim design.

[0053] It is particularly preferred that the locking device has a locking section which is designed and arranged to create a positive locking connection with a locking element in a locking position of the locking device.

[0054] The locking section is preferably detachably connectable to the locking element.

[0055] Preferably, the locking section is rotatably mounted on the side wall element of the first side part about a locking axis.

[0056] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part is connected to an armrest, preferably detachably.

[0057] One advantage of such an armrest connected to the side panel of the first side section is that it can increase user comfort. A detachable connection between the side panel and the armrest allows the armrest to be removed and reattached at any time.

[0058] Preferably, the armrest has an armrest surface which is arranged essentially horizontally in the operating position of the side wall element of the first side part.

[0059] It is particularly preferred that the first side part comprises a guide device which has a guide rail for guiding the side wall element of the first side part, wherein the side wall element of the first side part is connected to the guide rail and is movable, in particular displaceable, along the guide rail relative to the guide rail.

[0060] By means of such a guide device with a guide rail, a sliding function of the side wall element can be achieved in a particularly advantageous way, whereby the side wall element can then be moved along the guide rail.

[0061] A particular advantage of such a guide rail is that, due to the guidance provided by the guide rail, the side panel element has relatively little play in any position. This reduces or prevents rattling of the side panel and / or the side wall element and increases the stability of the side wall element. This can also extend the service life of the side panel.

[0062] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail is formed in a circular arc shape at least in sections, wherein the side wall element of the first side part is movable, in particular displaceable, along the circular arc extension of the guide rail.

[0063] Preferably, the guide rail has such a circular arc extension that the side wall element is moved along the circular arc when moved along the guide rail.

[0064] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has at least one mounting hole for direct or indirect attachment of the guide rail to the wheelchair frame.

[0065] Preferably, the guide rail has two ends, with each end being connected to the wheelchair frame either directly or indirectly. Preferably, the guide rail can be connected to the wheelchair frame in vertically different positions at both the first and second ends.

[0066] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has several locking holes for fastening a locking element, in particular in the form of a locking screw, wherein the locking holes are preferably arranged in a circular arc along the course of the guide rail.

[0067] It is particularly preferred that the position of the guide rail can be arranged in such a way that the side wall element essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0068] Preferably, the guide rail can be connected to the wheelchair frame in different positions in the vertical direction. This makes it particularly advantageous to connect the guide rail to the wheelchair frame in such a position that the side wall element has the desired relative position to the first rear wheel in both the operating and non-operating positions.

[0069] One advantage of such a guide rail, which can be connected to the wheelchair frame in different positions relative to the wheelchair frame, is that the guide rail can be adjusted so that the side wall element essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel, regardless of the different preset wheel positions.

[0070] It is particularly preferred that the second side part comprises a side wall element with an outer contour, wherein the side wall element of the second side part is movable relative to the wheelchair frame between a working position and a non-working position along a circular arc such that the outer contour of the side wall element of the second side part essentially follows the outer circumference of the second rear wheel.

[0071] The same applies preferably to the second side panel and the side wall element of the second side panel as to the first side panel and the side wall element of the first side panel.

[0072] It is particularly preferred that the second side part, in relation to the second rear wheel, is designed in the same way as the first side part, in relation to the first rear wheel.

[0073] Preferably, the second side panel is designed like the first side panel, but mirrored, so that it is arranged relative to the second rear wheel in the same way as the first side panel is arranged relative to the first rear wheel.

[0074] It is particularly preferred that the wheelchair comprises: a parking brake connected to the wheelchair frame by means of a frame connecting device, wherein the parking brake has a pressure element that can be moved into a locking position for locking the first rear wheel, in which the pressure element rests against the tire of the first rear wheel, and a receiving element connected to the frame connecting device and / or to the parking brake, wherein the first side part has a connecting section that is connected to the receiving element.

[0075] Such a parking brake is primarily used to lock the first rear wheel. A second parking brake may also be provided for locking the second rear wheel; this second brake may be designed in the same way as the parking brake used to lock the first rear wheel.

[0076] Preferably, the receiving element is arranged between the frame connection device and the parking brake. Preferably, the first side part is connected to the receiving element by means of the connecting section, which is preferably designed as an end section of the guide rail of the guide device. Preferably, the first side part, in particular the guide rail of the first side part, can be connected to the receiving element in various vertical positions.

[0077] It is particularly preferred that the receiving element is arranged at a distance from the wheelchair frame, and preferably at a distance from an upper frame tube of the wheelchair frame.

[0078] Preferably, the first side panel is not directly connected to the wheelchair frame, but indirectly connected to the wheelchair frame via the receiving element.

[0079] It is particularly preferred that the receiving element is essentially L-shaped.

[0080] It is particularly preferred that the receiving element has a first leg and a second leg, which are preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to each other, wherein the parking brake is connected to the first leg of the receiving element and the connecting section of the first side part is connected to the second leg of the receiving element.

[0081] Preferably, the receiving element can be connected to the frame connection device and / or the parking brake in various positions along the first leg. By changing the position of the receiving element—by moving it along the first leg to a different position and securing it in that position—the connected side panel can also be moved and thus arranged in an optimal position in a particularly advantageous way.

[0082] Preferably, the frame connection device can be moved along the upper frame tube of the wheelchair frame and fixed in a desired position on the upper frame tube. This particularly advantageously allows the parking brake and the first side panel to be moved together relative to the first rear wheel, so that the position of the parking brake and the first side panel can be adjusted together by means of a single adjustment movement of the frame connection device along the upper frame tube. This results in a significantly simplified and faster adjustment of the first side panel and the parking brake relative to the wheelchair frame and relative to the first rear wheel.

[0083] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has a recess for removing and inserting the side wall element, which is preferably arranged on the upper side of the guide rail in the vertical direction.

[0084] Preferably, the side wall element can be completely detached from the guide rail, in particular by moving the side wall element further rearward from the non-use position with respect to the direction of travel, and preferably also upwards.

[0085] According to a further aspect, the aforementioned problem is solved by a side panel for a wheelchair, in particular for a manual, preferably foldable, wheelchair, preferably for a wheelchair as described here, the side panel comprising a side wall element, and a guide device having a guide rail, wherein the guide rail is formed at least partially in a circular arc, such that the guide rail extends at least partially along a circular arc, wherein the side wall element of the side panel is connected to the guide rail and is movable along the circular arc of the guide rail relative to the guide rail.

[0086] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the side part is displaceable along the arc of the guide rail relative to the guide rail.

[0087] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has at least one mounting hole for direct or indirect attachment of the guide rail to the wheelchair frame.

[0088] Preferably, the guide rail is connected indirectly, namely preferably via the receiving element and the fastening element to the wheelchair frame.

[0089] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has several locking holes for fastening a locking element, wherein the locking holes are preferably arranged along the arc-shaped extension of the guide rail.

[0090] Preferably, the locking element can be attached to any locking bore. This allows the operating position of the side wall element, in which it can be locked, to be changed in a particularly advantageous way.

[0091] It is particularly preferred that the side wall element of the first side part has a tire cover area with a curvature designed to arch over at least a portion of a tire of a rear wheel of the wheelchair.

[0092] It is particularly preferred that the guide rail has a recess for removing and inserting the side wall element, which is preferably arranged on the upper side of the guide rail in the vertical direction.

[0093] According to a further aspect, the aforementioned problem is solved by a method for adjusting a side panel of a wheelchair, the method comprising: providing a wheelchair, preferably a wheelchair as described herein, wherein the first side panel comprises a side wall element that is movable relative to the wheelchair frame, arranging the side wall element of the first side panel in a working position, moving the side wall element of the first side panel from the working position to a non-working position by moving, preferably displacing, the side wall element of the first side panel along a circular arc such that the outer contour of the side wall element of the first side panel essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel.

[0094] It is particularly preferred that the method comprises: moving the side wall element of the first side part from the non-use position to the use position by moving, preferably displacing, the first side wall element of the first side part along the arc of the circle in such a way that the side wall element of the first side part essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel with its outer contour.

[0095] It is particularly preferred that the method comprises: removing the side wall element of the first side part from the wheelchair, in particular by lifting the side wall element of the first side part in the non-use position, and preferably inserting the side wall element of the first side part.

[0096] According to another aspect, the aforementioned task is solved by using a side panel as described here, wherein the side panel is connected to a wheelchair, in particular a wheelchair as described here.

[0097] For the advantages, design variants and design details of the various aspects of the solutions described here and their respective possible further developments, reference is also made to the description of the corresponding features, details and advantages of the other aspects and their further developments.

[0098] Preferred embodiments are explained by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale. In the figures, identical or essentially functionally equivalent or similar elements are designated with the same reference numerals. They show: Fig. 1: a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair; Fig. 2: a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair; Fig. 3: a side view of the wheelchair with the first rear wheel shown partially transparently, with the side wall element arranged in the operating position; Fig. 4: a side view of the wheelchair with the first rear wheel shown partially transparently, the side wall element being arranged in the non-use position; Fig. 5: a side view of the wheelchair with the first rear wheel shown partially transparently, with the side wall element removed; Fig. 6a: a first side view of a side panel; Fig. 6b: a second side view of a side panel; Fig. 7: a side view of a side panel with armrest; Fig. 8a: a detailed view of the side wall element in its operating position; Fig. 8b: a detailed view of the side wall element in the non-use position; Fig. 9: a detailed view of the side wall element in the non-use position; Fig. 10: a detailed view of a recording element; Fig. 11: a detailed view of a fastener; Fig. 12a: a schematic representation of an exemplary procedure for adjusting a side panel of a wheelchair; Fig. 12b: a schematic representation of another exemplary method for adjusting a side panel of a wheelchair.

[0099] Fig. Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair 1. The wheelchair 1 is designed as a manual and foldable wheelchair. The wheelchair 1 comprises a wheelchair frame 5 with several frame tubes. The wheelchair 1 includes a first rear wheel 70 and a second rear wheel 270, which are spaced apart from each other and are each connected to and rotatably mounted on the wheelchair frame 5. The wheelchair also has two steering wheels 80, 280 and a footplate 86. The wheelchair 1 has a backrest 160 and a seat 150 with a seat surface 151. The seat 150 is arranged between the first rear wheel 70 and the second rear wheel 270. The wheelchair 1 has a parking brake 30 for locking the first rear wheel 70.

[0100] Furthermore, the wheelchair comprises a first side panel 10 and a second side panel 210, each connected to the wheelchair frame 5. The first side panel 10 is located directly adjacent to the first rear wheel 70 on the side of the first rear wheel 70 facing the seat area 150. The second side panel 210 is located directly adjacent to the second rear wheel 270 on the side of the second rear wheel 270 facing the seat area 150. The first side panel 10 has a side wall element 11 with a tire cover area 14, which has a radially outward outer contour 14a adapted to the outer circumference of the first rear wheel 70. The second side panel 210 also has a side wall element 211 with a tire cover area 214, which has a radially outward outer contour 214a adapted to the outer circumference of the second rear wheel 270.The first side panel 10 and the second side panel 210 are essentially identical in design, but mirror-symmetrical, so that the first side panel 10 is adapted to the first rear wheel 70 and the second side panel 210 is adapted to the second rear wheel 270. An armrest 19a is detachably attached to the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10. An armrest 219a is also attached to the side wall element 211 of the second side panel 210.

[0101] The side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is located between the in Fig. The side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is movable between the operating position shown and a non-operating position along a circular arc, such that the outer contour 14a of the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel 70. The side wall element 211 of the second side part 210 is movable between the operating position shown and a non-operating position along a circular arc, such that the outer contour 214a of the side wall element 211 of the second side part 210 essentially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel 270.

[0102] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair 1. The one in Fig. Wheelchair 1 shown in Figure 2 essentially corresponds to the one shown in Figure 2. Fig. The wheelchair shown in point 1, therefore, the explanations regarding... Fig. 1 is referred to. In contrast to the one in Fig. The wheelchair shown in 1 indicates that it is in Fig. The wheelchair shown in Figure 2, however, does not have armrests. The detailed descriptions in the following figures apply to the one shown in Figure 2. Fig. 1 embodiment shown with armrests and for the Fig. 2. The embodiment shown without armrests is equally valid, regardless of whether an armrest is shown in the figures or not.

[0103] Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of the in Fig. 2 wheelchair 1 shown with first rear wheel 70 shown partially transparently, wherein the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is arranged in the operating position. Also shown are the horizontal direction H, which here coincides with the direction of travel F, and the vertical direction V. The wheelchair frame has several frame tubes 90, 92, 85, 50, 40, 60, including an upper frame tube 40, a seat tube 50, a lower frame tube 60, and a backrest tube 92. The backrest tube 92 has a curved section 90 and a push handle 91. The first rear wheel 70 has a tire 71, a rim 74, and spokes 75. The first rear wheel 70 is rotatably mounted about the wheel axis R1 on the wheelchair frame 5 by means of a wheel bearing 73 on a wheel mounting rail 72, which is connected to the lower frame tube 60 and the upper frame tube 40.

[0104] The side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is located between the in Fig. The side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is movable between the operating position shown in Figure 3 and a non-operating position along the arc 130, such that the outer contour 14a, which forms the radially outer contour of the tire cover area 14, essentially follows the outer circumference 70a of the first rear wheel 70 when moving between the operating position and the non-operating position. The side wall element 11 has an armrest receptacle 19 into which an armrest can be inserted.

[0105] In the embodiment shown here, this movement capability of the side wall element is achieved by the first side part 10 comprising a guide device 13, which has a circular arc-shaped guide rail 13s for guiding the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10. The side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is connected to the guide rail 13s and is movable relative to the guide rail 13s, i.e., it is displaceable along the guide rail 13s. The guide rail 13s has such a circular arc-shaped extension that the side wall element 11 is moved along the arc 130 when displaced along the guide rail 13s. The guide rail 13s extends from a first end 13a to a second end 13b along the arc 130.The guide rail 13s is indirectly connected to the wheelchair frame 5 in the area of ​​the first end 13a, which is designed as a connecting section V1, namely via a receiving element 20 (as in particular in connection with . Fig. 10). The guide rail 13s is also indirectly connected to the wheelchair frame 5 in the area of ​​the second end 13b, namely via a fastening element 18 (as described in particular in connection with Fig. 11).

[0106] Furthermore, a locking device 15 is provided which has a lever 16 (see, for example, Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b). By means of the locking device 15, the side wall element 11 can be locked in the operating position and released for movement into the non-operating position.

[0107] Furthermore, a parking brake 30 is provided, which is connected to the upper frame tube 40 of the wheelchair frame 5 by means of a frame connection device 35, 36. The parking brake 30 has a pressure element 33, which is connected to a pressure element holder 32, for locking the first rear wheel 70, which can be rotated about the axis R by means of a brake lever 31.

[0108] Fig. Figure 4 shows a side view of the object associated with Fig. 3 described wheelchair 1 with partially transparent first rear wheel 70, wherein the side wall element 11 is in the position shown here (in contrast to the one in Fig. 3 shown in the operating position) is arranged in the non-operating position. In the non-operating position, the side wall element 11 is arranged in a rearward position relative to the direction of travel F compared to the operating position.

[0109] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the item in connection with Fig. 3 and Fig. Wheelchair 1 described in Figure 4, with the first rear wheel 70 partially shown in transparent detail, whereby the side wall element has been completely removed and is therefore not shown. Starting from the one described in Figure 4. Fig. In the non-use position shown in Figure 4, the side wall element can be removed from the guide rail 13s by moving it backwards and upwards. A recess 13x is provided in the guide rail 13s for this purpose, enabling the removal of the side wall element in a particularly advantageous and simple manner.

[0110] Fig. Figure 6a shows a first side view of a side panel 10, in which the side of the side panel 10 facing the seating area is shown. Fig. 6b shows a second side view of the in Fig. 6a side panel shown from the other side, namely the side of side panel 10 facing the rear wheel. The in Fig. 6a and Fig. The side panel 10 shown in Figure 6b has a guide device 13 with a circular arc-shaped guide rail 13s extending from a first end 13a to a second end 13b along the circular arc 130. The side wall element 11 has a main section 12 consisting of two areas 12a, 12b, several connecting screws 12x, 12y, and a tire cover area 14 having a circular arc-shaped outer contour 14a. The side wall element 11 has an armrest receptacle 19 into which an armrest can be inserted.

[0111] The locking device 15 has a locking section 17, which is designed and arranged to form a positive-locking connection with a locking element 13d, which is designed as a locking screw and connected to the guide rail 13s, in a locked position. The position of the locking element 13d can be changed by placing the locking element 13d in a different bore 13c of the guide rail. The locking section 17 has a round section 17a, which serves for the releasable connection with the locking element 13d. The locking section 17 is rotatably mounted about a locking axis A on the side wall element 11 of the side part 10. The locking device 15 can be actuated by means of a lever 16, which extends through an opening 11a of the tire cover area 14.

[0112] At the rear, the side panel 10 is connected to a fastening element 18, which in turn is attached to the backrest tube of the wheelchair. The fastening element 18 has an elongated hole 18a arranged essentially parallel to the backrest tube and extending along an elongated hole axis 18c. The guide rail 13s can be connected to the fastening element 18 by means of a fastening element screw 18b. Due to the elongated hole 18a, the guide rail 13s can be connected to the fastening element 18 in different vertical positions. This allows the side panel 10 to be adjusted vertically at the rear and thus positioned optimally in relation to the rear wheel.

[0113] Fig. Figure 7 shows a side view of a side panel 10 with armrest 19a. The armrest 19a is connected to the side panel 11 via an armrest receptacle 19 of the side panel 11. The armrest has an armrest 19c with an armrest surface 19b, which is connected to an armrest bracket 19d. The armrest bracket 19d is height-adjustable by being able to slide in and out of the side panel 11.

[0114] Fig. Figure 8a shows a detailed view of the side wall element 11 in the operating position and Fig. Figure 8b shows the side wall element 11 in its non-use position. The side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 is movable along the circular arc 130 such that it is moved about a pivot axis D1. In the arrangement shown here as an example, the pivot axis D1 of the side wall element 11 is spaced somewhat apart in the vertical and horizontal directions from the wheel axis R1, about which the rear wheel 70 is rotatable. The pivot axis D1 and the wheel axis R1 can also coincide, so that there is no distance between them. However, even if there is a relatively small distance between the wheel axis R1 and the pivot axis D1 of the side wall element 11, as shown here only as an example, the pivot axis D1 is in any case arranged essentially like the wheel axis R1 of the first rear wheel 70.This means that there is either no distance at all between the axis of rotation D1 and the wheel axis R1, or only a relatively small distance, i.e. less than 20 cm, particularly preferably less than 15 cm, especially less than 10 cm, between the axis of rotation D1 and the wheel axis R1.

[0115] Fig. 9 essentially shows the Fig. Figure 8b shows the illustration, but with the rear wheel partially shown in a transparent image. From the illustration in Fig. In the non-use position shown in Figure 9, the side wall element 11 can be removed from the guide rail 13s in the direction of arrow 140.

[0116] Fig. Figure 10 shows a detailed view of a receiving element 20 to which the guide rail 13s is connected by means of a screw connection inserted in a mounting bore 13e. The receiving element 20 is connected to the frame connecting device 35, 36, which is connected to the upper frame tube 40 and can be fixed in various positions along the upper frame tube 40. The parking brake 30 is connected to the frame connecting device 30. The parking brake 30 has a pressure element 33, which is connected to a pressure element holder 32 and serves to lock the first rear wheel 70. By means of the brake lever 31, the pressure element 33 can be rotated about the axis R to move the pressure element towards or away from the tire of the rear wheel. Connecting screws 34 are provided to connect the parking brake 30 to the frame connecting device 35, 36.

[0117] The receiving element 20 extends partially between the frame connecting device 35, 36 and the parking brake 30 and is fixed between the frame connecting device 35, 36 and the parking brake by means of the connecting screws 34. Due to this arrangement, the receiving element 20 is spaced apart from the upper frame tube 40 of the wheelchair frame. The receiving element 20 is essentially L-shaped. The receiving element 20 has a first leg 20a and a second leg 20b. The first leg 20a and the second leg 20b are arranged essentially perpendicular to each other. The parking brake 30 is connected to the first leg 20a of the receiving element 20. And the connecting section V1 of the guide rail 13s of the guide device 13 of the side panel 10 is connected to the second leg 20b of the receiving element 20.The first leg 20a has an elongated hole 21 extending along direction 21a. The second leg 20b has an elongated hole 22 extending along direction 22a. An additional hole 23 is also provided. The elongated holes 21, 22, and the hole 23 allow, on the one hand, the position of the side panel 10 relative to the parking brake 30 to be changed, and on the other hand, the vertical position of the side panel 10 to be changed.

[0118] Fig. Figure 11 shows a detailed view of a fastening element 18. The fastening element is connected to the backrest tube 92 by means of a fastening screw 18e. The guide rail 13s can be connected to the fastening element 18 in different positions along the elongated hole 18a of the fastening element 18 and along the elongated hole extension 18c. This makes it possible to adjust the rear end of the side panel essentially in a vertical direction, namely in the direction of the backrest tube 92.

[0119] Fig. Figure 12a shows a schematic representation of an exemplary method 300 for adjusting a side panel of a wheelchair. The method 300 comprises the following steps. In step 310, a wheelchair 1 is provided, wherein the first side panel 10 comprises a side wall element 11 that is movable relative to the wheelchair frame 5. In step 320, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 is positioned in a working position. In step 330, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 is moved from the working position to a non-working position by moving, preferably displacing, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 along a circular arc 130 such that its outer contour 14a substantially follows the outer circumference 70a of the first rear wheel 70.In step 340, the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 is moved from the non-use position to the use position by moving, preferably displacing, the first side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 along the arc of the circle 130 such that the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10 essentially follows the outer circumference 70a of the first rear wheel 70 with its outer contour 14a.

[0120] Fig.Figure 12b shows a schematic representation of another exemplary method 300 for adjusting a side panel of a wheelchair. The method 300 comprises the following steps. In step 310, a wheelchair 1 is provided, wherein the first side panel 10 comprises a side wall element 11 that is movable relative to the wheelchair frame 5. In step 320, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 is arranged in a working position. In step 330, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 is moved from the working position to a non-working position by moving, preferably displacing, the side wall element 11 of the first side panel 10 along a circular arc 130 such that its outer contour 14a substantially follows the outer circumference 70a of the first rear wheel 70.In step 340, the side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 is moved from the non-use position to the use position by moving, preferably shifting, the first side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 along the arc 130 such that its outer contour 14a substantially follows the outer circumference 70a of the first rear wheel 70. Subsequently, in a further step 330, the side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 is moved from the use position to the non-use position. Then, in step 350, the side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 is removed from the wheelchair 1, in particular by lifting the side wall element 11 of the first side section 10 in the non-use position. And in a 360-degree step, inserting the side wall element 11 of the first side part 10. Reference symbol list 1 wheelchair 5 wheelchair frames 10 first side panel 11 Side wall element of the first side part 11a Opening in the side wall element 12 Main section of the side wall element 12a, 12b Areas of the main section of the side wall element 12x, 12y connecting screws 13 Guide device 13s Guide rail of the guide device 13a first end of the guide rail 13b second end of the guide rail 13c bore of the guide rail 13d locking element 13e Mounting hole of the guide rail 13x recesses in the guide rail 14 Tire cover area of ​​the side wall element of the first side panel 14a Outer contour of the side wall element of the first side part 15 Locking device 16 levers 17 Locking section Section 17a of the locking section 18 Fastening element 18a Slotted hole of the fastening element 18b, 18e Fastening element screw of the fastening element 18c Slotted hole axis of the slotted hole of the fastening element 19 Armrest mount 19a, 219a Armrests 19b Armrest area 19c Armrest 19d Armrest bracket 20 recording element 20a first leg of the receiving element 20b second leg of the receiving element 21, 22 elongated holes of the receiving element 21a, 22a Direction of extension of the elongated holes of the receiving element 23 holes of the receiving element 30 Parking brake 31 brake levers 32 Pressure element holder 33 Pressure element 34 connecting screws 35, 36 Frame connection device 40 upper frame tube 50 seat tube 60 lower frame tube 70 first rear wheel 70a Outer circumference of the first rear wheel 71 tires of the first rear wheel 72 Wheel mounting rail of the first rear wheel 73 Wheel bearings of the first rear wheel 74 Rim of the first rear wheel 75 spokes of the first rear wheel 80, 280 steering wheels 85, 90 frame tubes 86 Footplate 91 Push handle 92 Backrest tube 130 circular arcs 150 seating area 151 Seating area 160 backrest 210 second side panel 211 Side wall element of the second side part 214 Tire cover area of ​​the side wall element of the second side panel 214a Outer contour of the side wall element of the second side part 270 second rear wheel 310-360 process steps A locking axis F Direction of travel H horizontal direction R axle of the parking brake V vertical direction V1 connection section QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 0827729A2

[0003] DE 19730717A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Wheelchair (1), in particular a manual, preferably foldable, wheelchair, comprising - a wheelchair frame (5), - a first rear wheel (70) and a second rear wheel (270) which are arranged at a distance from one another and which are each connected to the wheelchair frame (5) and rotatably mounted on the wheelchair frame (5), - a seating area (150) arranged at least partially between the first rear wheel (70) and the second rear wheel (270), - a first side part (10) and a second side part (210), each connected to the wheelchair frame (5), wherein the first side part (10) is arranged directly adjacent to the first rear wheel (70) and at least partially on a side of the first rear wheel (70) facing the seating area (150), and wherein the second side part (210) is arranged directly adjacent to the second rear wheel (270) and at least partially on a side of the second rear wheel (270) facing the seating area (150), characterized byin that the first side part (10) comprises a side wall element (11) with an outer contour (14a), wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is movable relative to the wheelchair frame (5) between a use position and a non-use position along a circular arc (130) such that the outer contour (14a) of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) essentially follows the outer circumference (70a) of the first rear wheel (70). [2] Wheelchair according to the preceding claim, wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is displaceable between the use position and the non-use position along the circular arc (130). [3] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is movable along the circular arc (130) in such a way that the side wall element (11) of the first side part is moved about an axis of rotation (D1) which is arranged substantially like the wheel axis (R1) of the first rear wheel (70), in particular coincides with the wheel axis (R1) of the first rear wheel (70), and / or which is arranged in the region of the wheel axis (R1) of the first rear wheel (70), in particular close to the wheel axis (R1) of the first rear wheel (70). [4] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circular arc (130) along which the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is movable has a circle center (D) which is arranged below the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) with respect to the vertical direction (V), and preferably below the first side part (10) with respect to the vertical direction (V). [5] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the circular arc (130) along which the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is movable has a circle center (D) which is arranged in the region of and / or adjacent to a wheel bearing (73) of the first rear wheel (70) and / or which is arranged in the region of and / or below the wheel axis (R1) of the first rear wheel (70) with respect to the vertical direction (V). [6] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer contour (14a) of the side wall element (11) is substantially circular in shape and is preferably adapted to the outer circumference (70a) of the first rear wheel (70). [7] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) has a tire cover area (14) which extends to the outer contour (14a) of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10). [8] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tire covering area (14) is arranged at least in sections at the level of the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70) and adjacent to the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70) with respect to the vertical direction (V), and / or wherein the tire covering region (14) is arranged at least in sections above the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70) with respect to the vertical direction (V), wherein the tire covering region (14) preferably arches at least in sections over the first rear wheel (70). [9] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the tire cover portion (14) of the side wall element (11) of the first side element (10) has a curved cross-section such that the tire cover portion (14) of the side wall element (11) arches at least partially over the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70). [10] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the use position of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10), there is a substantially constant gap between the tire cover area (14) and the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70) along the tire cover area (14), wherein preferably during a movement of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) between the use position and the non-use position the gap between the tire cover area (14) and the tire (71) remains substantially constant. [11] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side part (10), in particular by means of a screw connection, is detachably connected to the wheelchair frame (5), in particular to a backrest tube (92) of the wheelchair frame (5), by means of a fastening element (18), which preferably has a substantially vertically arranged elongated hole (18a). [12] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall element (10a) of the first side part (10) can be locked in the use position by means of a locking device (15), wherein the locking device (15) is connected to the side wall element (10a) of the first side wall (10), wherein the locking device (15) preferably has a lever (16) which extends through an opening (11a) of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10), in particular through an opening (11a) of the tire cover area (14) of the first side part (10). [13] Wheelchair according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking device (15) has a locking portion (17) which is designed and arranged to establish a positive connection with a locking element (13d) in a locking position of the locking device, wherein the locking section (17) is preferably mounted rotatably about a locking axis (A) on the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10). [14] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is connected, preferably detachably, to an armrest (19a), wherein preferably the armrest (19a) has an armrest surface (19b) which is arranged substantially horizontally in the use position of the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10). [15] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side part (10) comprises a guide device (13) having a guide rail (13s) for guiding the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10), wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is connected to the guide rail (13s) and is movable, in particular displaceable, along the guide rail (13s) relative to the guide rail (13s). [16] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide rail (13s) is at least partially circularly arc-shaped, wherein the side wall element (11) of the first side part (10) is movable, in particular displaceable, along the circular arc-shaped extension of the guide rail (13s). [17] Wheelchair according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the guide rail (13s) has at least one fastening hole (13e) for direct or indirect fastening of the guide rail (13s) to the wheelchair frame (5), and / or wherein the guide rail (13s) has a plurality of locking bores (13c) for fastening a locking element (13d), in particular in the form of a locking screw, wherein the locking bores (13c) are preferably arranged in a circular arc along the course of the guide rail (13s). [18] Wheelchair according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the position of the guide rail (13s) can be adjusted such that the side wall element substantially follows the outer circumference of the first rear wheel. [19] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second side part (210) comprises a side wall element (211) with an outer contour (214a), wherein the side wall element (211) of the second side part (210) is movable relative to the wheelchair frame (5) between a use position and a non-use position along a circular arc such that the outer contour (214a) of the side wall element (211) of the second side part (210) essentially follows the outer circumference (270a) of the second rear wheel (270). [20] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second side part (210) is designed with respect to the second rear wheel (270) in the same way as the first side part (10) with respect to the first rear wheel (70). [21] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, comprising - a parking brake (30) which is connected to the wheelchair frame (5) by means of a frame connecting device (35, 36), wherein the parking brake (30) has a pressing element (33) which is movable into a locking position for locking the first rear wheel (70), in which the pressing element (33) rests against the tire (71) of the first rear wheel (70), and - a receiving element (20) which is connected to the frame connecting device (35, 36) and / or to the parking brake (30), wherein the first side part (10) has a connecting section (V1) which is connected to the receiving element (20). [22] Wheelchair according to the preceding claim, wherein the receiving element (20) is arranged at a distance from the wheelchair frame (5), and preferably at a distance from an upper frame tube (40) of the wheelchair frame (5), and / or wherein the receiving element (20) is substantially L-shaped, and / or wherein the receiving element (20) has a first leg (20a) and a second leg (20b), which are preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to one another, wherein the parking brake (30) is connected to the first leg (20a) of the receiving element (20) and the connecting section (V1) of the first side part (10) is connected to the second leg (20b) of the receiving element (20). [23] Wheelchair according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide rail (13s) has a recess (13x) for removing and inserting the side wall element (11), which recess is preferably arranged on the upper side of the guide rail (13s) in the vertical direction (V). [24] Side part (10) for a wheelchair (1), in particular for a manual, preferably foldable, wheelchair, preferably for a wheelchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the side part (10) comprising - a side wall element (11), and - a guide device (13) having a guide rail (13s), wherein the guide rail (13s) is at least partially circularly arc-shaped, so that the guide rail (13s) extends at least partially along a circular arc (130), wherein the side wall element (10a) of the side part (10) is connected to the guide rail (13s) and is movable along the circular arc-shaped extension of the guide rail (13s) along the circular arc (130) relative to the guide rail (13s). [25] Side part according to the preceding claim, wherein the side wall element (11) of the side part (10) is displaceable along the circular arc-shaped extension of the guide rail (13s) along the circular arc (130) relative to the guide rail (13s). [26] Side part according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide rail (13s) has at least one fastening hole (13e) for direct or indirect fastening of the guide rail (13s) to the wheelchair frame (5), and / or wherein the guide rail (13s) has a plurality of locking holes (13c) for fastening a locking element (13d), wherein the locking holes (13c) are preferably arranged along the circular arc-shaped extension of the guide rail (13s). [27] Side part according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side wall element (10a) of the first side part (10) has a tire cover area (14) with a curvature which is designed to curve at least partially over a tire (71) of a rear wheel (70) of the wheelchair (1). [28] Side part according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide rail (13s) has a recess (13x) for removing and inserting the side wall element (11), which recess is preferably arranged on the upper side of the guide rail (13s) in the vertical direction (V). [29] Use of a side part (10) according to one of claims 24-28, wherein the side part (10) is connected to a wheelchair (1), in particular a wheelchair (1) according to one of claims 1-23.

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