Apparatus and associated method for lifting a user relative to a swimming pool

Abstract

There is provided a lifting apparatus for raising a user relative to a body of water. The lifting apparatus includes a platform configured to receive a wheelchair. The apparatus is reconfigurable between a raised access configuration in which the platform is in a raised position; and a lowered access configuration in which the platform is in a lowered position. The platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration such that the apparatus is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation throughout reconfiguration between the raised and lowered access configurations. The apparatus is also configurable to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100cm between the raised and lowered access positions.

Description

[0001] APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR LIFTING A USER RELATIVE TO A SWIMMING POOL

[0002] The present invention relates to a lifting apparatus and methods for use in raising or lowering objects; and in particular, but not exclusively to a lifting apparatus with a platform for raising or lowering a user, optionally a wheelchair user, such as into or out of a pool.

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] Swimming pools are often poorly accessible or inaccessible for restricted mobility users via conventional access ladders or steps. Accordingly restricted mobility users are often deterred from using swimming pools. Swimming pool access for restricted mobility users is sometimes provided by lifting devices with slings or chairs used to suspend such users for transfer between the poolside and the pool. The user often requires assistance in getting into, or out of, the sling or chair. For example, the user commonly requires assistance in moving between the wheelchair or crutches and the lifting device. The lifting device is normally controlled at the poolside by an operator; typically by an attendant or a lifeguard.

[0005] Once the user is lowered into the water in a seated position on the lifting device, the user dismounts the sling or chair. Usually the operator then raises the sling or chair out of the water until the user wishes to exit the pool. When the user wishes to exit the pool, they signal to the operator to lower the sling or chair into the pool again. Once the user is secured in the sling, the operator raises the sling out of the water and moves the user to the poolside, where the operator normally assists in transferring the user out of the sling.

[0006] It may be an object of one or more aspects, examples, embodiments, or claims of the present disclosure to at least mitigate or ameliorate one or more problems associated with the prior art, such as those described herein or elsewhere.

[0007] SUMMARY

[0008] According to an aspect, there is provided a lifting apparatus. The lifting apparatus may be for raising and / or lowering a user and / or a wheelchair. The apparatus may be for lifting a user in a body of water. The lifting apparatus may comprise a platform for supporting the user and / or wheelchair in use. The apparatus may be configured to transfer the platform between the body of water and a position out of the body of water. According to an aspect there is provided a method of raising a user relative to a body of water. The method may comprise the user accessing a platform of a lifting apparatus in one of a lowered or a raised access position. The method may comprise maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation. The method may comprise reconfiguring the apparatus to the other of the lowered or the raised access position.

[0009] The raised access position may comprise a dry access position. The lowered access position may comprise a wet access position. The wet access position may comprise a submerged position of the platform. The lifting apparatus may be configured to submerge the platform in water, at least in the lowered access position. The apparatus may be configured to transition the platform between submerged in water in the wet access configuration and out of the water in the dry access configuration. In at least some examples, the raised access configuration the platform may be at least partially in the water. For example, in the raised access configuration an underside of the platform may be in the water where the raised access configuration has the platform positioned at least partially over or above the body of water.

[0010] The body of water may comprise a fixed depth, such as during or throughout the lifting. The fixed depth of water may be at the location of the lifting apparatus. The body of water may comprise a pool, such as a swimming pool. In other examples, the body of water may comprise a depth of water that varies over time. For example, the volume of water may vary over time and / or a position of an element at least partially defining the depth may vary over time. For example, the body of water may comprise a swimming pool with a height-adjustable base or bottom.

[0011] The apparatus may be configured to submerge at least the user’s waist, optionally torso, in water. The wet access configuration may comprise a submerged position of the user. The apparatus may be configured to accommodate a height difference between the dry access configuration and the wet access configuration. The height difference may comprise a vertical travel distance between the respective raised and lowered access positions of the platform. The height difference may be reflective and / or at least partially dependent on a height between the poolside (or similar) and the body of water (such as a level of the surface of the water). The height difference may be configured to accommodate a vertical gap, such as between the poolside and the upper surface of the water. For example, the apparatus may be configured to accommodate a total height difference of 80cm for use at a poolside when / where the surface of the water is level with the poolside (e.g. where water level determined by a perimeter gutter); and the same apparatus may be reconfigurable to accommodate a total height difference of 100cm when / where the surface of the water is below the poolside (e.g. where water surface level determined by a pool skimmer or the like, such as 20cm below poolside height). The height difference may comprise or accommodate a separation or gap between the water surface level and a support or base for the apparatus, such as the poolside. The height difference may include a portion corresponding to the gap and a portion in the water. For example, the vertical height difference (e.g. of 100cm or more) traversed by the platform between the raised and lowered access positions may constitute a gap portion (e.g. of around 20cm) and a submerged portion through the water (e.g. of around 80cm or more) below the gap. The height difference may comprise at least a minimum height difference. The height difference may comprise at least 80cm. In at least some examples, the height difference may comprise at least 90cm; at least 1m; at least 110cm; at least 120cm; at least 140cm; at least 150cm. Provision of a minimum height difference may help ensure that the apparatus can lower (and / or raise) a user into a water, even where there is a gap or height drop between the poolside and the upper surface of the water. The height difference may comprise a maximum height difference. The apparatus may be configured in dependence on the height difference, such as the minimum height difference. The apparatus arm / s may comprise a length and / or rotational path to provide the height difference. The height difference may comprise a vertical difference in elevation of the platform between the raised access position and the lowered access position. The height difference may comprise a maximal difference in elevation of the platform. For example, the raised access position may represent a highest point of the platform on its path and the lowered access position may represent a lowest point of the platform on its path. The apparatus may be configured, such as by the arrangement of arms defining the platform’s path, to only comprise a downward vertical component when transitioning from the raised access position to the lowered access position.

[0012] The apparatus may be less than a maximum height. Limiting the apparatus to being less than a maximum height may provide safety benefits. For example, keeping the height of the apparatus below a maximum may ensure lifeguard visibility of the pool over the apparatus. Additionally, or alternatively, minimising the height of the apparatus, below a maximum height, can enable the apparatus to be more readily transported, such as without requiring disassembly or reconfiguration to a reduced height configuration. The maximum height of the apparatus may be 180cm or less. In at least some examples, the apparatus may be less than 160cm or even less than 150cm. The maximum height of the apparatus may be defined by an uppermost point of the arm(s). The uppermost point may be that in the storage configuration.

[0013] Additionally, or alternatively, the uppermost point may be that in any configuration, such as the uppermost point of the arm(s) along the path.

[0014] The apparatus may be configured to limit a horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside. The apparatus may be configured to limit a horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside. The arrangement of the arms to define the platform’s path may ensure that the horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside is limited to be below a maximum separation. The maximum separation may be less than 100cm; optionally less than 80cm; preferably less than 50cm. Limiting the horizontal separation may provide physical and / or psychological safety benefits.

[0015] Limiting the horizontal separation may also limit the maximum horizontal projection of the platform out over or into the water. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the horizontal projection of the platform outwards over or in the water below a maximum projection. Limiting the horizontal projection may ensure a lower maximum moment exerted by a weight of the (laden) platform.

[0016] Accordingly, in at least some examples, there is provided a lifting apparatus for raising a user relative to a body of water, the lifting apparatus comprising a platform configured to receive a wheelchair, the apparatus being reconfigurable between: a raised access configuration with the platform in a raised position; a lowered access configuration with the platform in a lowered position; wherein the platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration such that the apparatus is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation throughout reconfiguration between the raised and lowered access configurations; and wherein the apparatus is configurable to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100cm between the raised and lowered access positions.

[0017] Likewise, according to at least some examples, there is provided a method of raising a user relative to a body of water, the method comprising: the user accessing a platform of a lifting apparatus in one of a lowered or a raised access position; maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation; and reconfiguring the apparatus to the other of the lowered or the raised access position; wherein the method comprises moving the platform through a vertical height difference of at least 100cm between the raised and lowered access positions.

[0018] The apparatus may be configurable to vary or adjust the height difference. For example, the apparatus may be configurable to provide a height difference of 100cm or more. The apparatus may be configured to lower the user from the dry access position into the water such that the user is substantially submerged into the water - such as with at least the user’s waist and optionally torso submerged. The apparatus may be configured to transition the platform between the wet and dry access positions. The apparatus may be configured to maintain a user’s head above water, even in the lowered configuration, such as the wet access position. Alternatively, in at least some examples, the apparatus may be configured to lower the user into the water such that the user is fully submergible in the water, such as with the lower configuration providing sufficient depth of water above the platform to allow the user to be fully upright with their head at least partially underwater. Fully upright may be in a standing position. The fully upright aspect may relate to the user having their head a maximum height above the platform. Alternatively, fully submergible may be when the user is in a sedentary or other inclined or reclined position, such as in a wheelchair. The lower access position may be dependent upon the particular user and optionally their body stance (e.g. sedentary or standing). The apparatus may be configurable to adjust the lower access position. For example, the apparatus may be configurable to program or otherwise control the path or movement of the lifting arms to limit the platform to a particular threshold of lower position. The apparatus may be controllable in use to allow positioning of the platform to suit an individual user on / of the platform. The apparatus, such as movement of the platform, may be controllable by the user, such as from the platform. Additionally, or alternatively, the apparatus may be controllable by another person, such as an (authorised) personnel operating the apparatus (e.g. at / from poolside).

[0019] The lifting apparatus may be reconfigurable between one or more configurations selected from: a raised configuration; a lowered configuration; and a storage configuration. The raised configuration may be relative to the lowered configuration. The lowered configuration may comprise the submerged configuration. The raised configuration may comprise the dry access configuration. The lowered configuration may comprise the wet access configuration. The dry access configuration may be for access to the lifting apparatus from a dry or land area, such as a poolside. The dry access configuration may provide access between the platform and the land area. The wet access configuration may provide access between the platform and the water, such as to allow a user to enter and / or leave the platform into and / or out of the water.

[0020] The platform may follow a path between the raised and lowered configurations. The path may be defined by a smooth curve, such as a smooth arc. The path may comprise the height difference, the height difference being the vertical component of travel of the path between the raised and lowered access positions. The path of the platform may be defined by the rotation of the lifting arms, such as determined by a four-bar mechanism or linkage associated therewith. The path may be that between the dry and wet access positions. The four bar mechanism may be defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force. The four bar mechanism may be defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force over the working path of the platform. The four bar mechanism may be defined to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque. The four bar mechanism may be configured to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque for the working path of the platform. The four bar mechanism may comprise relative proportions of the respective ‘bars’ and pivot points associated therewith to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque for working path of the platform’s movement. The force or torque applied or required to support or drive the / each lifting arm may remain substantially the same for each position and intermediate of the lifting arm between the dry access and wet access positions. The geometrical arrangement of the four bar mechanism may define the substantially flat or constant force or torque for the working path of the platform’s movement. The force may remain less than 50kN throughout. The force may remain less than 40kN throughout. The force may remain less than 50kN, optionally 40kN, throughout travel along paths between positions. The force may remain less than 50kN, optionally 40kN, throughout the path / travel of the platform between the raised and lowered positions. The force may remain more than 20kN throughout. The force may remain more than 25kN, optionally more than 30kN throughout. The force may remain between 25kN and 40kN throughout. The force may remain between 30kN and 35kN throughout. The apparatus may be configured to travel between the raised and lowered positions in a total travel time of less than one minute. The apparatus may be configured to travel between the raised and lowered positions in a total travel time of less than 45 seconds, optionally less than 30 seconds, optionally less than 20 seconds. The apparatus may be configured to travel between the raised and lowered positions in a total travel time of between 5 and 30 seconds; optionally between 10 and 20 seconds. The apparatus may be configured to travel between the raised and lowered (e.g. dry access and wet access) positions in either direction in a similar total travel time. For example, the apparatus may be configured to travel from the raised (dry) access position to the lowered (wet) access position in a same or similar travel time as from the lowered (wet) access position to the raised (dry) access position.

[0021] The lifting apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation in one or more of the configurations. The lifting apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation in the raised, lowered and storage configurations. The apparatus may be configured to prevent rotation of the platform relative to the horizontal. The apparatus may be configured to prevent deviation of the platform from the horizontal orientation in any in-use configuration. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform horizontal without requiring or relying on gravity. For example, the apparatus may be configured to maintain a relative angle of the platform, such as relative to an apparatus base and / or poolside, without relying on gravity. The apparatus may be configured to prevent deviation of the platform from horizontal by rotation or inclination about a horizontal longitudinal and / or horizontal lateral axis of the platform. The apparatus may be configured to prevent swinging of the platform under gravity and / or under loading, such as asymmetrical loading.

[0022] The apparatus may comprise a selective transportation system for transporting the apparatus to and / or from a use location. For example, the transportation system may be for transporting the apparatus between two distinct poolside locations. Additionally, or alternatively, the transportation system may be for transporting the apparatus between a poolside use location and a storage location. The transportation system may be selectively activatable. The transportation system may be selectively activatable by selectively raising or lowering the apparatus, or at least a portion thereof, such as with hydraulic jacking.

[0023] The apparatus may comprise one or more wheels, such as one or more pairs of wheels, for transporting the apparatus. The apparatus may be configured to be transported to, from or at the poolside by wheeling the apparatus. The apparatus base may comprise the wheel / s. The apparatus may comprise a wheel set configured for climbing or overcoming obstacles, such as thresholds or undeven ground. The wheel set may comprise wheels of different diameters, such as a relative small wheel / s and a relatively large wheel / s. The respective wheels of the set / s may be positioned with a lower surface at different heights. For example, a lower surface of the smaller wheel may be positioned relatively above a lower surface than the relatively larger wheel. The lower surface may be the lowermost point of the wheel. Accordingly, the larger wheel may contact the floor or ground with its lower surface when the wheel set is rolling on a flat, even, horizontal surface. The wheels may be integrated in the transportation system. The wheels may be selectively deployable, such as by selectively jacking the transportation up or down, such that the wheel selectively engage or disengage the ground or floor therebeneath.

[0024] The transportation system may comprise a steering system. The system may comprise steering a wheel or wheel set. In at least some examples, the steering system may comprise a pair of steerable wheels or wheelsets. The steering system may selectively activatable and selectively deactivated. The steering system may be manually operable.

[0025] The transportation system may comprise a braking or parking system. In at least some examples, the apparatus may comprise at least a pair of adjustable wheels or wheel sets. The wheels or wheel sets may be parallel in use for transportation. The apparatus wheels or wheel sets may be adjustable to have parallel planes of rotation in use for transportation; and non-parallel planes of rotation for parking. The apparatus may be configured to lock the wheels or wheel sets. The apparatus may comprise a brake for locking the wheel or wheel sets. The brake may comprise a manual brake lever or handle. Activation of the brake may cause at least one wheel or wheel set to be skewed, with its plane of rotation being deviated. Activation of the brake may cause at least a pair of wheels or wheel sets to each be skewed, with each plane of rotation being deviated relative to each other. Accordingly, the wheel / s or wheel set / s may be selectively skewed to provide a toe-angle to impede rolling of the wheel or wheel set, with the toe-angle being a sufficient angle between at least two wheels or sets of wheels to impede rotation of at least one of the wheels or wheel sets.

[0026] The present disclosure may represent an improvement on the Applicant’s earlier inventions, apparatuses and methods, such as those disclosed in WO2012164290, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The improvements may include enabling a greater range of movement of the platform, such as an ability to access a deeper depth in a pool. The presently-disclosed apparatus may be configured to provide for a greater height difference between dry and wet access positions to the platform, such as a greater height difference than the Applicant’s previous lifting apparatus, such as disclosed in WO2012164290.

[0027] It may be an advantage of the present disclosure, that the apparatus may be configured or configurable to accommodate a substantial height difference between the dry and wet access positions. For example, different swimming pools can comprise differing heights of sidewall or edge above the water level. The sidewall height may vary from zero (or less) for an infinity pool to substantially more, such as where a gutter, skimmer weir or the like is accommodated in an opening in the side wall. In at least some examples of the present disclosure, a same apparatus may be configurable or reconfigurable to accommodate different height differences for dry and wet access, whilst still providing a same level or depth of submergence of the platform in the wet access position. For example, the same lifting apparatus may be configurable to position the platform at a same depth, such as at least a water depth of 80 cm, in different pools with differing heights of sidewall and poolside access above the water level. The water level may be defined by a surface level of the pool filled with water at a normal in-use volume of water. In at least some examples, the apparatus may be configurable to vary or adapt the height difference in dependence on the user. For example, the height difference may be adjustable to accommodate users of differing heights. The apparatus may be configured to lower different users to different depths in dependence on the different user. In at least some examples, the apparatus may be reconfigurable by the user. For example, the user may control the height difference, particularly by controlling the depth or position of the lowered access position.

[0028] In at least some examples, an array of apparatuses is provided, with respective apparatuses being configured to accommodate a different height difference. For example, a first apparatus may be configured to accommodate a height difference for a pool with no gap between poolside and water surface; and a second apparatus may be configured to accommodate a height difference for a pool with a gap between poolside and water surface, the poolside being an additional portion of the height difference above the water surface. The apparatus may be configured to provide for a substantially vertical path of travel when the platform is over and / or in the body of water. The apparatus may be configured to provide for a substantially vertical path of travel of the platform between the raised access position and the lowered access position. The path of travel may comprise a vertical component significantly greater than a horizontal component of travel. The path of travel of the platform may be described by a near-linear arc, at least when the platform is moving in the water.

[0029] The platform may be configured to receive a wheelchair. Providing such a lifting apparatus for raising a user in a body of water with a platform configured to receive a wheelchair may permit a user to be raised in a pool, such as raised out of the pool and transferred to a wheelchair. Providing such a lifting apparatus where the platform is substantially horizontal in each of the configurations may aid confidence in a wheelchair user that the platform is safe to use. The apparatus may permit the user to independently transfer between the wheelchair and the body of water. The platform may be positioned to be substantially above the body of water in use in the raised configuration. The platform may be positioned to be substantially submerged in the body of water in use in the lowered configuration. Providing a platform configured to receive a wheelchair wherein the platform may be substantially or entirely submerged in the body of water may permit the user to transfer to / from the wheelchair aided by buoyancy due to the body of water.

[0030] The platform may be positioned to be substantially adjacent the body of water in use in the storage configuration. Providing a storage configuration with the platform positioned to be substantially adjacent the body of water may permit substantially unimpeded use of the body of water, such as unimpeded swimming adjacent the lifting apparatus. The apparatus may be configured to position the platform directly adjacent the body of water in the storage configuration; such as directly adjacent a point of transition of the platform between poolside and the pool. The apparatus may be configured to position the platform substantially clear of the body of water in use in the storage configuration The apparatus may be configured to position the platform not above / overlapping the body of water.

[0031] The apparatus may be configured to raise the user out of the body of water. The apparatus may be configured to lower the user in the body of water, such as into the body of water. The apparatus may be configured to at least partially submerge the wheelchair and / or the platform.

[0032] The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in the substantially horizontal orientation during reconfiguration, such as between the raised and lowered configurations. Providing such a lifting apparatus wherein the platform is substantially horizontal during reconfiguration between the raised and lowered configurations may permit the user to be stably raised or lowered in the wheelchair on the platform.

[0033] The apparatus may be configured to move the platform in a similar motion during reconfiguration between the raised and lowered configurations; and / or between the raised and storage configurations; and / or between the lowered and storage configurations. The motion between different configurations may be similarly enabled. Using a similar motion for reconfiguration between different configurations may enable an increased robustness (e.g. strength) of apparatus; and / or a reduction in the number and / or complexity of components required. Reconfiguration between the raised and / or the storage and / or the lowered configurations may be achieved using a similar feature / s of the apparatus. For example, the apparatus may comprise a single set of components (e.g. the same set) for reconfiguration between the raised and / or the storage and / or the lowered configurations.

[0034] The apparatus may be configured to move the platform along a path between the raised and lowered configurations; and / or between the raised and storage configurations; and / or between the lowered and storage configurations. The path may be a substantially continuous path. The path may be substantially non-linear. The path may be arcuate, such as a portion of a circle. The path may be substantially linear. The path may be defined substantially in a single plane. The plane may be substantially vertical. The path may be substantially between a poolside and pool, such as directly between the poolside and the pool (e.g. in a vertical plane perpendicular to the poolside).

[0035] The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during reconfiguration between configurations, such as the raised and storage configurations. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during reconfiguration between the dry access and wet access configurations. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during all in-use reconfigurations.

[0036] The apparatus may comprise a non-suspensive lifting apparatus. In contrast to suspensive lifts (e.g. slings, cranes, etc.), the non-suspensive apparatus may support throughout the lifting without use of flexible tensile members, such as ropes, chains, wires or the like. The apparatus may comprise a lifting arm for supporting the platform during reconfiguration between the respective raised and lowered positions. The lifting arm may be connected to the platform at a lateral side of the platform. The lifting arm may provide a rigid connection between the platform and the poolside, such as via an apparatus base on the poolside (and optionally fixed thereto). The lifting arm may provide an inflexible support to the platform. The lifting arm may provide a solid, sturdy support for the platform, in contrast to a suspension support such as of a platform suspended by a cable, wire, rope or the like. The lifting arm may comprise a rigid support member. The lifting arm may be connected to the platform via a pivot. The lifting arm may be connected by at least a pair of pivots. The lifting arm may be connected to the platform via at least two pivots such that the orientation of the platform may be controllable by and / or during movement of the lifting arm.

[0037] The lifting arm may comprise an elbow defining a change in longitudinal orientation of the lifting arm. The elbow may comprise a fixed angle between a lifting arm first portion and a lifting arm second portion. The lifting arm first portion may comprise an aft-arm portion. The second lifting arm portion may comprise a fore-arm portion. The elbow’s fixed angle may comprise an angle dependent upon a poolside property, such as an angle between a pool or poolside wall and a surface adjacent the pool, such as a flat or horizontal surface or area of land or floor. The elbow’s angle may comprise an obtuse angle, the obtuse angle being greater than 90 degrees so as to accommodate a 90 degree angle between a poolside and an adjacent surface, such as a vertical pool wall and a horizontal adjacent floor. The elbow angle may be fixed in all configurations of the lifting apparatus and / or for all positions of the lifting arm. The lifting arm housing may comprise the elbow. The lifting arm housing may be rigid. The lifting arm first portion may be connected to the poolside, such as via the apparatus base. The lifting arm second portion maybe connected to the platform. The elbow may be configured to correspond to a property associated with the body of water. For example, the elbow may be positioned at a particular distance along the lifting arm and with a particular angle, the particular distance and angle being dependent upon a dimension / s of a pool. For example, the lifting arm and elbow may be shaped for the elbow to be positioned proximal a poolside (e.g. edge) when the apparatus is in the lowered configuration. The lifting arm second portion may correspond to, define or at least relate to a position of the platform relative to the poolside, such as for the lifting arm second portion to substantially describe the position of the platform in the water relative to the poolside edge. The length of the lifting arm second portion may correspond to or define the height difference between the raised and lowered platform positions. The length of the lifting arm second portion may correspond to or define the depth of the platform in the lowered position.

[0038] The apparatus may be configured to move the platform between configurations with an articulation system. The articulation may comprise one or more linkage assemblies. The lifting arm may comprise the linkage assembly / ies. The linkage assembly / ies may be comprised within a lifting arm housing. The linkage assembly / ies may be used with the lifting arm housing such that the linkage assembly / ies is / are inaccessible, and optionally not visible, in normal use of the apparatus. The linkage assembly may comprise the four-bar mechanism. The linkage assembly may comprise a pair of four- bar mechanisms. The four-bar mechanisms may be linked. For example, each of the four-bar mechanisms may define a parallelogram arrangement of pivot points. A side of each of the parallelogram arrangements may be connected. Accordingly, the movement of each of the two four-bar mechanisms of the linkage assembly may be linked such that the movement defined by each of the four-bar mechanisms is dependent or influenced on the other of the four-bar mechanism of the linkage assembly. The lifting arm first portion may comprise a first four-bar mechanism. The lifting arm second portion may comprise a second four-bar mechanism. The movement and travel path of the platform may be determined by the linkage assembly / ies. The linkage assembly may be housed in a lifting arm housing. The lifting arm housing may be rigid. The linkage assembly may be at least partially encased in the lifting arm housing, such as at least partially surrounded by a shell or housing / covering. The lifting arm housing may comprise a rigid housing. The elbow may comprise a fixe angle. The housing may comprise a housing elbow with a fixed angle. The fixed angle may remain constant throughout reconfiguration and movement of the lifting arm. The housing may comprise a plurality of housing portions, such as a plurality of shell portions assmeblable together to form the housing.

[0039] The lifting arm may comprise an elbow joint. The elbow joint may define or house at least one pivot. The elbow joint may comprise or house at least one pair of pivots. For example, the elbow joint may comprise or house a pair of pivots of the first lifting arm portion’s four-bar mechanism. The elbow joint may comprise a pair of pivots for each of the lifting arm first and second arm portions.

[0040] The articulation system may comprise a pair of lifting arms, each lifting arm being positioned and coupled at a respective opposite lateral side of the platform.

[0041] The apparatus may comprise a first lifting arm. The first lifting arm may connect the platform to the base. The first lifting arm may comprise first and second link portions. The first link portion may be connected to the base at a first link portion base connection. The first link portion may be connected to the elbow at a first link elbow connection.

[0042] The linkage assembly may comprise a platform support member. The lifting arm may be connected to the platform support member at a first link arm platform pivot. The second link arm may be connected to the base at a second link arm base pivot. The second link arm may be connected to the platform support member at a second link arm platform pivot. Accordingly, the first linkage assembly may define at least four pivot points.

[0043] The first and second link arms may be substantially parallel. The first linkage assembly may be configured such that the first and second link arms are substantially parallel throughout reconfiguration or travel of the platform. The first and second link arms, the platform support and the elbow may define a four-bar mechanism, with the first and second link arms defining opposite sides of a quadrilateral representative of the four- bar mechanism. The four-bar mechanism may comprise four pivot points, each of one degree of freedom. The four pivot points may define a trapezium at one or more of the configurations and / or at at least one stage during reconfiguration. The four pivot points may define a parallelogram at one or more of the configurations and / or at at least one stage during reconfiguration. The four pivot points may define a rectangle at one or more of the configurations and / or at at least one stage during reconfiguration.

[0044] The first linkage assembly may be configured to maintain the platform support at a same orientation relative to horizontal, such as defined relative to the base, throughout reconfiguration. A distance between the first link arm base pivot and the first link arm elbow pivot (e.g. a length of the first link arm) may be substantially the same as a distance between the second link arm base pivot and the second link arm elbow pivot (e.g. a length of the second link arm).

[0045] A distance between the first link arm platform pivot and the second link arm platform pivot may be substantially the same as a distance between the first link arm base pivot and the second link arm base pivot.

[0046] The platform may be fixed relative to the platform support pivots. For example, the platform may be rigidly connected to the platform support. The platform support may comprise the platform. Providing a platform fixed relative to the platform pivots may aid prevention of unintended rotation of the platform relative to the horizontal. Providing a platform fixed relative to the platform pivots may permit improved robustness of the apparatus. Providing a platform fixed relative to the platform pivots may permit reduced manufacturing complexity and / or costs.

[0047] The apparatus may be configured to raise or lower the platform by rotating the lifting arm / s. The apparatus may be configured to rotate the lifting arm / s through an angle of more than 90 degrees when reconfiguring between the raised and lowered access positions. The lifting arm rotation angle between the raised and lowered access configurations may comprise more than 110 degrees, optionally more than 130 degrees. In at least some examples, the apparatus may rotate the lifting arm through an angle of more than 150 degrees, up to or even more than 160 degrees, when rotating between the lowered and raised access positions.

[0048] The apparatus may be configured to provide a substantially similar vertical elevation of the platform support member in the raised and storage configurations. The apparatus may be configured to position the platform in the storage configuration with the platform substantially aft of a foremost base pivot, such as the first link arm base pivot or the second link arm base pivot, in the storage configuration.

[0049] The apparatus may be configured to synchronise the first and second lifting arms. The first and second lifting arms may be synchronised, linked or cooperatively associated such that inclination of the platform is prevented. For example, the first and second linking arms may be operatively associated such that the relative positions of the first and second lifting arms substantially correspond throughout lifting operations.

[0050] The apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the first and second lifting arms. For example, the apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise the first and second lifting arms automatically. The apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the first and second lifting arms periodically. The apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the first and second lifting arms in dependence on a level or intensity of use. The apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the first and second lifting arms regularly, such as at, during or after a particular or predetermined amount of time and / or lifting operations. For example, the apparatus may be configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the lifting arms at least once before, during or after each lifting operation. In at least some examples, the apparatus is configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the lifting arms whenever a hydraulic piston or cylinder reaches a point in its stroke, such as a start or end point of the hydraulic stroke. (Re)synchronisation or (re)calibration may comprise adjusting a position of one or both of the lifting arms, such as adjusting position in its stroke or travel path such as to align with the other lifting arm.

[0051] The method may comprise synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms by adjusting the hydraulic fluid. The method may comprise synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms by adjusting the hydraulic fluid associated with one or both of the lifting arm / s. The method may comprise synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms by adjusting at least one of: volume of hydraulic fluid, pressure of hydraulic fluid. (Re)synchronisng or (re)calibrating may comprise balancing the lifting arms. (Re)synchronising or (re)calibrating may comprise balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the respective lifting arms. The method may comprise automatically (re)synchronising or (re)calibrating the apparatus, such as the arms. The method may comprise automatically balancing the lifting arms. The method may comprise automatically balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the lifting arms. Each lifting arm may comprise a hydraulic cylinder or piston associated therewith. The / each cylinder or piston may comprise a hydraulic fluid in to drive the piston in at least one direction, optionally two. The apparatus may comprise a hydraulic fluid supply control system for controlling the position of the lifting arm / s. Each lifting arm may be associated with a respective hydraulic drive, such as a respective hydraulic piston / cylinder. Accordingly the apparatus may comprise a pair of lifting arms, with each lifting arm being operatively associated with a respective hydraulic cylinder. The apparatus may comprise a hydraulic fluid system. The hydraulic fluid system may comprise a closed hydraulic circuit / s. The apparatus may comprise a hydraulic fluid reservoir. The hydraulic fluid reservoir may be for supplying hydraulic fluid to the cylinders for driving the lifting arms. The hydraulic system may drive the cylinders / pistons bi-directionally. The hydraulic system may drive the cylinders / pistons bi-directionally. The hydraulic system may drive each lifting arm in both directions, sequentially. The hydraulic system may drive each lifting arm in a first direction to reconfigure the platform from the raised (e.g. dry) access position to the lowered (e.g. wet) access position. The hydraulic system may drive each lifting arm in a second direction to reconfigure the platform from the lowered (e.g. wet) access position to the raised (e.g. dry) access position.

[0052] The hydraulic system may comprise a stroke alignment balance. The stroke alignment balance may comprise a balancing valve. The balancing valve may be triggered by one of the pistons reaching a point in its stroke before, or after, the other piston has reached a corresponding point in its stroke. The point may be an end point, such as an end point of a return stroke. The balancing valve may be triggered by either one of the pistons reaching a point in its stroke. Alternatively, each piston may be associated with a balancing valve, the respective balancing valve being triggered by the associated piston reaching the predetermined point of its stroke. The balancing valve may be opened when triggered to provide fluid communication to at least one of the pistons from the fluid reservoir. The balancing valve may be opened when triggered to provide fluid communication between the corresponding sides of the respective pistons. For example, where a first piston has reached the end point of its return stroke before the second piston, the balancing valve may be triggered to open fluid supply to provide additional hydraulic fluid to the closing side of the second piston to drive the second piston to the closed return end point.

[0053] The apparatus may comprise a drive system. The drive system may be configured to reconfigure the apparatus between the raised and lowered configurations; and / or between the raised and storage configurations; and / or between the lowered and storage configurations. The apparatus may comprise a hydraulic drive system / s. The hydraulic system may be configured to power the lifting arm(s). The apparatus may be configured to comprise a smooth power curve.

[0054] The linkage assembly may be hydraulically actuated. The linkage assembly may be mechanically actuated. The linkage assembly may be electrically actuated. The linkage assembly may be manually actuated; or at least manually actuatable. The linkage assembly may be hydraulically actuatable in normal use; and mechanically actuatable in an override mode, such as for emergency or backup use. The linkage assembly may be gravity assisted and / or actuated. The apparatus may comprise an override mode. The override mode may be for operation of the platform when a primary platform drive fails. The override may comprise a manually-operable override. The override may comprise a manually-powered override drive. The override may comprise a mechanical override. The override mode may allow safe operation of the platform when a power supply, such as an electrical power supply, fails. The override may enable operation of the platform when the platform is inoperable by the primary drive, such as the primary hydraulic drive. The override may enable manual operation of the hydraulic drive system.

[0055] The first lifting arm may be driven by a first hydraulic system. The first hydraulic system may comprise a first hydraulic piston. The first hydraulic piston may be configured to drive the first lifting arm between positions corresponding to the travel path.

[0056] The second lifting arm may be driven by a second hydraulic system. The second hydraulic system may comprise a second hydraulic piston. The second hydraulic piston may be configured to drive the second lifting arm between positions corresponding to the travel path.

[0057] The apparatus may be configured to synchronise the first and second hydraulic systems. The apparatus may be configured to calibrate or re-calibrate the first and second hydraulic systems. The apparatus may be configured to at least periodically, optionally continuously, align the first and second hydraulic systems.

[0058] The apparatus may further comprise a first transmission system connected to the linkage assembly. The first transmission system may comprise a rotational transmission system, such as a gearbox. The first and / or second link arm / s may be connected to a first gear, such as a first sprocket. The first and / or second link arm / s may be rigidly connected to the first gear. The first gear may be connected to a second gear, such as a second sprocket. The first gear may comprise a larger diameter than the second gear. The first gear and the second gear may comprise a substantially similar diameter. The first gear may comprise a smaller diameter than the second gear.

[0059] The first transmission system may comprise a transmission element for angularly translating drive, such as a bevel gear. The transmission element may transmit drive to the worm drive member. The first transmission system may comprise a connecting shaft. The first transmission system may comprise a pulley. The apparatus may comprise a motor. The first transmission system may be connected to the first motor.

[0060] The apparatus may comprise a second linkage assembly. The second linkage assembly may comprise one or more features analogous to the first linkage assembly.

[0061] For example, the second linkage assembly may comprise a third link arm and a fourth link arm. The respective third and fourth link arms may comprise one or more features analogous to those of the respective first and second link arms.

[0062] The apparatus may be configured to synchronise movement of the first and second lifting arms. The apparatus may be configured to synchronise drive to the first and second lifting arms. The apparatus may be configured to coordinatingly or cooperatively drive the first and second linkage assemblies. The movement(s) may be synchronised via the drive system, such as via the hydraulic drive system. For example, the (re)synchronisation of the hydraulic fluid(s) to balance the lifting arms may ensure that the movement of the first and second lifting arms is synchronised.

[0063] Synchronising the movement of the first and second lifting arms may aid in maintaining the platform in an orientation, such as the substantially horizontal orientation.

[0064] The second lifting arm may be connected to the first lifting arm.

[0065] For example, the second linkage assembly may comprise a second transmission system. The second transmission system may be connected to the first transmission system, such as at least fluidly or hydraulically connected at least intermittently or periodically. In at least some examples, the lifting apparatus may comprise a drive element, such as a chain, belt or shaft, connecting the first and second transmission systems. The second transmission system may be connected to the first motor. The apparatus may comprise a second motor connected to the second transmission system. The first and / or second motor / s may be hydraulically driven. The first and / or second motor / s may be electrically driven. The first and / or second motor / s may be fuel driven, such as with combustible fuel (e.g. diesel).

[0066] The first platform support may be located at / adjacent a first side portion of the platform. The second linkage assembly may comprise a second platform support. The second platform support may be located in at / adjacent a second side portion of the platform. The second side portion of the platform may be a substantially opposite lateral side of the platform from the first side portion.

[0067] The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a forward-facing direction during reconfiguration between the raised and lowered configurations; and / or between the raised and storage configurations; and / or between the lowered and storage configurations. The forward-facing direction may comprise a pool-facing direction during reconfiguration between different configurations (e.g. during reconfiguration from the raised to the lowered configurations and / or from the lowered to the raised configurations). The forward-facing direction may comprise a poolside-facing direction during reconfiguration between different configurations (e.g. during reconfiguration from the lowered to the raised configurations). The forward-facing direction may comprise a different direction in different configurations or during different reconfigurations. For example, the forward facing direction may comprise a direction of lateral travel of the platform (e.g. towards the pool when the platform is moving the user into the pool and out of or away from the pool when the platform is moving the user out of the pool).

[0068] Such an apparatus may assist in the prevention of damage and / or accidents: for example, where a user faces directly towards an intended path of the platform (e.g. into the pool) there may be an increased awareness of a potential hazard such as an obstruction and / or another pool user in the intended path.

[0069] The apparatus may be configured to prevent rotation of the platform relative to the platform support (e.g. rotation about a vertical and / or a horizontal axis). The apparatus may be configured to locate the platform in a position vertically over the body of water in the raised configuration. The apparatus may be configured to locate the platform in a position above the body of water in the storage configuration.

[0070] The apparatus may comprise an actuator. The apparatus may comprise a single actuator for reconfiguration between each of the different configurations.

[0071] Providing a single actuator may reduce cost and / or complexity and / or maintenance and / or weakness of the apparatus.

[0072] The apparatus may be configured to be powered electrically. The apparatus may be electrical mains and / or battery-powered. For example, the apparatus may comprise a battery for powering the lifting operations of the apparatus. The battery may be removable and optionally readily accessible. In at least some examples at least a pair of batteries are provided to enable continuous operation of the apparatus - such as with a removed or redundant battery being charged whilst the apparatus is being powered by a second rechargeable battery. The apparatus may be configured to enable manual operation of the apparatus between configurations (e.g. via a recovery system, such as in the event of a power failure or failure of the drive system). The manual operation may comprise a manual operation of the articulation system, such as by winding or otherwise manually cranking or the linkage assembly / ies.

[0073] The base may be configured to be retrofitted, such as fitted to an existing swimming poolside. For example, the apparatus may be configured to be mounted to a poolside using a fixing / s such as a fixing with a minimal cross-sectional area (e.g. a bolt / s). Using such a fixing / s may ease installation: for example, to install the base may require one or more bolt holes to be drilled poolside, which may be comparatively straightforward compared to for example installing a more substantial support structure such as a pole (e.g. a bolthole may be drilled through an existing tile, rather than require the removal of tile / s and a substantial foundation support). The base may utilise existing fixing points (e.g. boltholes for other pool apparatus, such as springboards, start ramps, lane guides, etc.) The apparatus may be configured to be manually activated. For example, the apparatus may comprise an on switch. The on switch may be contactlessly operable (e.g. with an electromagnetic signal). The apparatus may comprise a control system for controlling the operation of the apparatus. The apparatus may be configured to be remotely activated, such as with an activation member. The apparatus may comprise an activation sensor for receiving a signal from the activation member. The apparatus may be configured to be automatically activated. The apparatus may be configured to be activated by a proximity of the activation member to the activation sensor. For example the activation member may comprise a RFID element. The activation member may be configured to be transported by the user. For example, the activation member may comprise a wristband. The activation member may be configured to be located in the body of water. For example, the activation member may be substantially water resistant, or waterproof. The apparatus may be configured to be deactivated by a signal from the activation member. For example, the apparatus may be configured to be deactivated by a withdrawal of the activation member from the proximity of the activation sensor.

[0074] The apparatus may be configured to lift a plurality of users simultaneously. For example, the apparatus may be configured to lift at least two users at the same time. The apparatus may be configured to lift a load in excess of a maximum weight of an adult human (e.g. for rating purposes). The apparatus may be configured to lift a load of at least two adult humans. The apparatus may be configured to lift a load in excess of 160kg; and in at least some examples in excess of 200kg. The apparatus may be configured to lift at least two users and a wheelchair simultaneously. The platform may be sized and dimensioned to accommodate a wheelchair, particularly an occupied wheelchair; and a user, particularly a second user, next to the wheelchair simultaneously during lifting. The apparatus may be configured to lift a load of 250kg. The apparatus may be configured to support an imbalanced load. For example, the apparatus may be configured to support the entire load on one side or half of the platform. The apparatus may be configured to support and lift an imbalanced load whilst maintaining the platform horizontal, such as horizontal throughout in-use lifting reconfigurations.

[0075] According to an aspect, there is provided a method of using the apparatus according to an aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure.

[0076] The steps of the method may be in any order.

[0077] According to an aspect, there is provided an apparatus configured to perform a method according to an aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure. According to an aspect, there is provided a controller arranged to perform a method according to an aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure.

[0078] According to an aspect, there is provided a system comprising a controller according to an aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure, or a system arranged to perform a method according to an aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure.

[0079] According to an aspect, there is provided computer software which, when executed by a processing means, is arranged to perform a method according to any aspect, claim, embodiment or example of this disclosure. The computer software may be stored on a computer readable medium. The computer software may be tangibly stored on a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may be non-transitory.

[0080] Any controller or controllers described herein may suitably comprise a control unit or computational device having one or more electronic processors. Thus, the system may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller or alternatively different functions of the controller may be embodied in, or hosted in, different control units or controllers. As used herein the term “controller” or “control unit” will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and a plurality of control units or controllers collectively operating to provide any stated control functionality. To configure a controller, a suitable set of instructions may be provided which, when executed, cause said control unit or computational device to implement the control techniques specified herein. The set of instructions may suitably be embedded in said one or more electronic processors. Alternatively, the set of instructions may be provided as software saved on one or more memory associated with said controller to be executed on said computational device. A first controller may be implemented in software run on one or more processors. One or more other controllers may be implemented in software run on one or more processors, optionally the same one or more processors as the first controller. Other suitable arrangements may also be used.

[0081] Within the scope of this disclosure it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0082] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0083] An embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0084] Figure 1 shows a first example of a lifting apparatus for use in raising a user platform in a body of water in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, in a raised configuration;

[0085] Figure 2 is a representation of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 in both the raised and a lowered configuration;

[0086] Figure 3 shows three side representations of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 in respective raised, intermediate and lowered configurations in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c respectively;

[0087] Figure 4 is a graph depicting variation of force over time, reflective of the force along the path of the platform;

[0088] Figure 5 is a schematic general representation of a hydraulic drive system of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 shown in general in Figure 5a and showing a detail of an automatic synchronisation module in Figure 5b;

[0089] Figure 6 is a detailed schematic side representation of the hydraulic drive system showing an override module;

[0090] Figure 7 is a schematic view of a transport system of the apparatus of Figure 1 , shown from two viewpoints in Figures 7a and 7b respectively ;

[0091] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a steering / braking system portion of the apparatus of Figure 1;

[0092] Figure 9 shows a portion of the system of Figure 8; and

[0093] Figure 10 shows a side view of the portion of Figure 9.

[0094] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] There is herein described a lifting apparatus 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for use in raising a user, optionally in a wheelchair (not shown), in a pool 14, as shown in Figure 1. The apparatus 10 comprises a wheelchair platform 16 for receiving a wheelchair, with apparatus shown in a raised configuration in Figure 1; and in both a raised and a lowered configuration in Figure 2.

[0096] It will be appreciated that Figure 2 depicts the platform 16 in both the raised and lowered positions, whilst there would never be two platforms 16 present simultaneously in a single apparatus 10. Accordingly, Figure 2 merely depicts the two platform 16 positions to illustrate the reconfigurability of the apparatus 10, which is further illustrated in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c sequentially.

[0097] Figure 3 shows three side representations of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 in respective raised, intermediate and lowered configurations in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c respectively. It will be appreciated that housings have been removed from these representations to illustrate the workings of the lifting arms 26, 28. It will also be appreciated that the raised position of Figure 3a has been achieved by forward rotation of the pair of arms 26, 28 to move the platform 16 horizontally forwards from the position of Figure 1 to the raised position of Figure 3a. It will be appreciated that the raised position of Figure 1 corresponds to a dry access position, allowing a user to enter or exit the platform 16 via an openable gateway 50, which can comprise either a single or pair of hinged gates. Accordingly, the user, optionally in / on a wheelchair, can readily safely access the platform 16 from the poolside 18 from the rear of the apparatus 10, thereby being spaced from the pool 14 by the width of the apparatus 10.

[0098] In each of the configurations shown in Figures 3a to 3c, and during reconfiguration of the apparatus 10 between each of the configurations shown, the platform 16 is maintained in a substantially horizontal orientation. Likewise, as can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the platform 16 can also be maintained horizontal for the raised access configuration for easy access from the poolside 18. It will be appreciated that the raised configuration of Figure 1 can also be used as a storage and transportation configuration. By maintaining the platform 16 in a substantially horizontal orientation, the user, particularly in a wheelchair, can be stably moved whilst on the platform 16.

[0099] In the raised configuration, the platform 16 is positioned adjacent the pool 14 at a poolside 18, with the platform 16 aft of a poolwall 20 such that no portion of the platform 16 overhangs a body of water 22 in the pool 14. With the platform 16 in the raised configuration as shown in Figure 1, users in the pool 14 can use the pool 14 largely unimpeded, including using the poolwall 20 (and poolwall edge 21).

[0100] Accordingly, the entire body of water 22 in the pool 14 may be used unimpeded when the platform 16 is in the raised access configuration. In the embodiment shown, a level of water 22 in the pool 14 is below the poolside 18; however in other embodiments, the level of water 22 may be higher or lower with respect to the poolside 18: for example, the poolside 18 may determine the level of water 22 in the pool 14 - such as where a perimeter gutter is provided.

[0101] The apparatus 10 has a base 24 that is fixed to the poolside 18. In the raised configuration, the platform 16 is positioned above the base 24. A footprint of the platform 16 overlaps a footprint of the base 24. Accordingly, the apparatus 10 has a reduced total footprint in the raised configuration, determined by the larger of the platform 16 or the base 24. The total footprint is entirely adjacent the poolside 18 such that no portion of the apparatus 10 overhangs the body of water 22 in the pool 14 in the raised configuration of Figure 1. The platform 16 is connected to the base 24 via the first and second platform supports in the forms of the lifting arms 26, 28. The lifting arms 26, 28 are located either side of the platform 16 such that a central portion of the platform 16 between the lifting arms 26, 28 is accessible to the wheelchair. The lifting arms 26, 28 are connected to the base 24 via respective first and second linkage assemblies.

[0102] The apparatus 10 is shown in Figure 3a in a raised configuration, with the platform 16 positioned over the body of water 22. The apparatus 10 can be moved from the raised position of Figure 1 to the raised configuration of Figure 3a upon an instruction from a user (not shown). The user can have an activation member (not shown) containing identity information, such as a wristband with RFID. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 comprises a control system that is connected to a management system, such as a programmable computer-controlled data management system. Detection of the activation member by the apparatus 10 and verification of authorisation of the associated user identity enables the apparatus 10 to be rendered operable; and deployed from the storage configuration to the raised configuration. In other embodiments, operation may be via one or more controls, without requiring identity information. The apparatus 10 activates hydraulic drive system 55 with a pump 56 to power the respective pistons 58, 59. Accordingly, the platform 16 swings through an arc defined by the parallelogram four bar mechanism of the arms 26, 28 between the raised and lowered configurations. The platform 16 remains substantially horizontal throughout movement between the configurations.

[0103] From the raised configuration shown in Figure 1 , activation of the apparatus 10 causes the gate / s 50 to unlock and automatically open. The apparatus 10 comprises motors to actively open the gate / s 50 that swings open rearwards, away from the pool 14. With the gate / s 50 open, the platform 16 is accessible for the user, such as on a wheelchair, allowing the user to enter or exit the platform 16. When entering the 18 pool 14, the user moves forwards from the poolside 18, over a portion of the base 24 onto the platform 16: the base 24, platform 16 and poolside 18 all being substantially of the same elevation with the apparatus 10 in the raised configuration.

[0104] A gate sensor detects when the gate / s 50 is completely shut; and a lock is automatically deployed when the gate sensor detects that the gate / s 50 is completely shut. When the apparatus 10 determines that the gate / s 50 is locked shut, the apparatus 10 is operable to move to the lowered configuration of Figure 3c. The configuration shown in Figure 1 is suitable for a user entering or exiting the pool 14; and is also suitable for an empty wheelchair to be deployed into or removed from the pool 14. Although shown without a wheelchair, the apparatus 10 can be used by users with a wheelchair. With the user, optionally in a wheelchair, securely on the platform 16 in the raised configuration of Figure 1 , the apparatus 10 can be moved to the lowered configuration of Figure 3s.

[0105] Upon instruction from the authorised user, the hydraulic drive system 55 is activated to drive the arms 26, 28 using their respective pistons 58, 59. Accordingly, the platform 16 swings through an arc defined by the arms 26, 28 from the raised configuration to the lowered configuration. The apparatus 10 monitors the relative position of the platform 16, such that drive from the hydraulic drive system 55 is ceased when the platform 16 reaches an intended position. The user is able to control the apparatus 10 to determine when the hydraulic drive system 55 ceases.

[0106] The apparatus 10 is adjustable to define an intended position. For example, the apparatus may be programmed to define the lowered configuration dependent upon a particular circumstance of the pool 14, such as a restricted depth of the pool 14. The apparatus can be programmed to define the intended position dependent upon the user (e.g. the lowered configuration can define a lower position in the body of water 22 for an upright user relative to a sedentary user).

[0107] During lowering from the raised configuration of Figure 3a to the lowered configuration of Figure 3c, the platform 16 is submerged in the body of water 22. The platform 16 is configured to channel a flow of water such that a resistance to movement of the platform 16 through the body of water 22 is reduced. Once in the lowered configuration of Figure 3c, the user is able to dismount the platform, optionally from a wheelchair, into the body of water 22: buoyancy provided by the body of water 22 aiding in supporting the user.

[0108] The user is able to exit the pool 14 by substantially reversing the process between Figures 3a and 3c: mounting the platform 16, optionally a wheelchair as appropriate, in the configuration of Figure 3c, activating the hydraulic drive system to move the platform 16 along the arcuate path through the intermediate position of Figure 3b, raising the platform 16 to the raised position of Figure 3a; and then further to the position of Figure 1. Once the platform is in the raised access position, the user can safely exit the platform, via the gate 50, towards the poolside 18, directly away from the pool 14.

[0109] The apparatus 10 is configured not to unlock the gate / s 50 when the platform 16 is located in the lowered configuration, or located in between the raised and lowered configurations. Accordingly, the user can only dismount the platform 16, once the platform 16 is returned to the raised configuration of Figure 1 ; thus ensuring the user, particularly when on a wheelchair, remains safely on the platform 16 during raising and lowering. It will be appreciated that in between the user dismounting the platform 16 into the pool from the lowered configuration, and the user re-mounting the platform 16 in the lowered configuration to exit the pool 14, that the platform can be returned to the raised configuration of Figure 1 or 3a. Accordingly, the body of water 22 can be made available for unimpeded use when the use of the apparatus 10 is not required. Likewise, multiple users can use the apparatus 10 for pool entry or exit out-of- sequence (i.e. without waiting on a previous user to exit before using the apparatus 10 for entry).

[0110] The apparatus 10 is configured to submerge at least the user’s waist, optionally torso, in water. The wet access configuration of Figure 3c comprises a submerged position of the user. The apparatus 10 is configured to accommodate a height difference 19 between the dry access configuration of Figure 1 (platform 16 height similar to Figure 3a) and the wet access configuration of Figure 3c. The height difference 19 comprises a vertical travel distance between the respective raised and lowered access positions of the platform 16. The height difference 19 is reflective and / or at least partially dependent on a height between the poolside (or similar) and the body of water (such as a level of the surface of the water). The height difference 19 is configured to accommodate a vertical gap, such as between the poolside and the upper surface of the water. For example, the apparatus 10 is configured to accommodate a total height difference 19 of 80cm for use at a poolside when / where the surface of the water is level with the poolside (e.g. where water level determined by a perimeter gutter); and the same apparatus 10 is reconfigurable to accommodate a total height difference 19 of 100cm when / where the surface of the water is below the poolside (e.g. where water surface level determined by a pool skimmer or the like, such as 20cm below poolside height). The height difference 19 comprises or accommodate a separation or gap between the water surface level and a support or base for the apparatus 10, such as the poolside. The height difference 19 here includes a portion corresponding to the gap and a portion in the water, with the vertical height difference 19 (e.g. of 100cm or more) traversed here by the platform 16 between the raised and lowered access positions of Figures 3a (and Figure 1) and Figure 3c constituting a gap portion (e.g. of around 20cm) and a submerged portion through the water (e.g. of around 80cm or more) below the gap. As shown here, the height difference 19 comprises at least 100cm. In other examples, the height difference 19 comprises at least 110cm; at least 120cm; at least 140cm; at least 150cm. Provision of a minimum height difference 19 helps ensure that the apparatus 10 can lower (and / or raise) a user into the water, even where there is a gap or height drop between the poolside 18 and the upper surface of the water 22. As shown here, the apparatus 10 is less than a maximum height of 150cm. Limiting the apparatus 10 to being less than a maximum height can provide safety benefits, such as ensuring lifeguard visibility of the pool over the apparatus 10. Additionally, or alternatively, minimising the height of the apparatus 10, below a maximum height, can enable the apparatus 10 to be more readily transported, such as without requiring disassembly or reconfiguration to a reduced height configuration, whilst still allowing passage through a standard doorway of 200cm height or less.

[0111] The apparatus 10 here is also configured to limit a horizontal separation 23 between the platform 16 and the poolside 18, especially the pool wall 20. The arrangement of the arms 26, 28 to define the platform’s path ensures that the horizontal separation 23 between the platform 16 and the poolside 18 is limited to be below a maximum separation. The maximum separation here is less than 50cm. Figure 4 is a graph depicting variation of force over time, reflective of the force along the path of the platform 16. As explained above, the platform 16 follows a path between the raised and lowered configurations, defined by a smooth arc. The path comprises the height difference 19, the height difference 19 being the vertical component of travel of the path between the raised and lowered access positions as shown schematically in Figure 3c, of the platform 16 relative to the vertical height position of the platform 16 in Figure 3a. The path of the platform 16 is defined by the rotation of the lifting arms 26, 28, determined by the four-bar mechanism linkages associated therewith. The path is that between the dry and wet access positions as shown in Figure 1 (via that of Figure 3a) and Figure 3c. The four bar mechanism is defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force as shown in Figure 4, over the working path of the platform 16. The four bar mechanism comprises relative proportions of the respective ‘bars’ and pivot points associated therewith to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque for working path of the platform ‘s 16 movement. Accordingly, the force or torque applied or required to support or drive the / each lifting arm 26, 28 remains substantially the same for each position and intermediate position therebetween of the lifting arms 26, 28 between the dry access and wet access positions. As shown here, it will be appreciated that the portion of the graph shown in Figure 5 corresponding to the working path of the platform 16 is that between the left-hand y-axis 47 at 0 seconds (corresponding to the raised position of the platform 16) and the right-hand boundary 47 corresponding to the lowered position. The portion of the graph to the right of the boundary 49 represents an unused path portion (further than required or desirable in view of the pool wall); and is merely shown as illustrative of possible undesirable force variation. The force here remains less thank 50kN throughout: indeed, here the force remains between 30kN and 35kN throughout the working window of the lifting apparatus 10. As shown here, the apparatus 10 is configured to travel between the raised and lowered positions in a total travel time of less than one minute, being between around 20 seconds as shown here. The apparatus 10 is configured to move the platform 16 between the raised and lowered (e.g. dry access and wet access) positions in either direction in a similar total travel time (the reverse travel effectively being an inversion of the graph, from right to left to reverse movement of the platform 16).

[0112] Figure 5 is a schematic general representation of a hydraulic drive system of the lifting apparatus of Figure 1 shown in general in Figure 5a and showing a detail of an automatic resynchronisation module in Figure 5b. The apparatus 10 is configured to synchronise the first and second lifting arms 26, 28. The first and second lifting arms 26, 28 are synchronised, linked or cooperatively associated such that inclination of the platform is prevented. For example, here the first and second linking arms 26, 28 are hydraulically linked such that the relative positions of the first and second lifting arms 26, 28 substantially correspond throughout lifting operations. As shown in Figure 5a, of the portion of the hydraulic drive system 55, a respective piston / cylinder 57, 59 of each of the respective lifting arms 26, 28 is supplied synchronously with hydraulic fluid. Accordingly, each of the lifting arms 26, 28 is synchronously driven, ensuring that each of the lifting arms 26, 28 is simultaneously activated with a similar force at a similar rate. Accordingly, the platform 16 is moved without risk of the platform 16 tilting, being equally supported by the lifting arms 26, 28 on the respective left and right sides of the platform 16.

[0113] Each lifting arm 26, 28 is associated with a respective hydraulic piston / cylinder 57, 59. Accordingly the apparatus 10 comprises a pair of lifting arms 26, 28, with each lifting arm being operatively associated with a respective hydraulic cylinder 57, 59. Here, the apparatus 10 comprises a closed hydraulic fluid system 55, with a hydraulic fluid reservoir 63. The hydraulic fluid reservoir 63 is for supplying hydraulic fluid to the cylinders for driving the lifting arms 26, 28. The hydraulic system 55 can drive the cylinders / pistons bi-directionally, being configured to drive each lifting arm 26, 28 in both directions, sequentially. The hydraulic system 55 can drive each lifting arm 26, 28 in a first direction to reconfigure the platform 16 from the raised (e.g. dry) access position to the lowered (e.g. wet) access position; and subsequently drive each lifting arm 26, 28 in a second direction to reconfigure the platform 16 from the lowered (e.g. wet) access position to the raised (e.g. dry) access position.

[0114] The apparatus 10 is configured to synchronise the first and second lifting arms 26, 28. The first and second lifting arms 26, 28 is synchronised, linked or cooperatively associated such that inclination of the platform is prevented. For example, the first and second linking arms 26, 28 is operatively associated such that the relative positions of the first and second lifting arms 26, 28 substantially correspond throughout lifting operations. The apparatus 10 is configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the first and second lifting arms 26, 28. Here, the apparatus 10 is configured to (re)synchronise the first and second lifting arms 26, 28 automatically, at least once before, during or after each lifting operation. As shown in Figure 5b, the apparatus 10 is configured to (re)synchronise or (re)calibrate the lifting arms 26, 28 whenever one of the hydraulic pistons or cylinders 57, 59 reaches a point in its stroke, such as an end point of the hydraulic stroke as shown. (Re)synchronisation or (re)calibration comprises adjusting a position of one or both of the lifting arms 26, 28 in its stroke or travel path such as to align with the other lifting arm 28, 26.

[0115] Accordingly, the hydraulic system 55 comprises a stroke alignment balance with a balancing or relief valve 61. The balancing valve 61 is triggered by one of the pistons 57, 59 reaching a point in its stroke before, or after, the other piston 59, 57 has reached a corresponding point in its stroke. The point here is an end point of a return stroke. The balancing valve 61 is triggered by one of the pistons 57, 59 reaching a point in its stroke before the other 59, 57 has reached the corresponding point in its stroke. The balancing valve 61 is opened when triggered to provide fluid communication to the other piston 59, 57 from the fluid reservoir. Here, where a first piston 57 has reached the end point of its return stroke before the second piston 59, the balancing valve 61 is triggered to open fluid supply to provide additional hydraulic fluid to the closing side of the second piston 57 to drive the second piston 57 to the closed return end point.

[0116] Accordingly, any leakage, even if very small or over a prolonged period of time, can be compensated to ensure the lifting arms 26, 28 remain synchronised and the platform 16 remains horizontal and not skewed throughout movement.

[0117] The method of use comprises synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms 26, 28 by adjusting the hydraulic fluid. The method comprises synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms 26, 28 by adjusting the hydraulic fluid associated with one or both of the lifting arm / s. The method comprises synchronising or calibrating the lifting arms 26, 28 by adjusting at least one of: volume of hydraulic fluid, pressure of hydraulic fluid. (Re)synchronisng or (re)calibrating comprises balancing the lifting arms 26, 28. (Re)synchronising or (re)calibrating comprises automatically balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the respective lifting arms 26, 28.

[0118] Figure 6 is a detailed schematic side representation of the hydraulic drive system 55 showing an override module 65. The lifting arms 26, 28 with their linkage assemblies are hydraulically actuated in normal use; and mechanically actuatable in an override mode, such as for emergency or backup use. The apparatus 10 here comprises an override mode, for operation of the platform 16 when the primary platform hydraulic drive 55 fails, which as shown in Figure 6 is a manually-operable and manually- powered override 65. The override 65 allows safe operation of the platform 16 when a power supply, such as an electrical power supply to a pump or component of the hydraulic system 55, fails. Here, the override 65 enables manual operation of the hydraulic drive system 55.

[0119] Figure 7 is a schematic view of a transport system 80 of the apparatus 10 of Figure 1 , shown from two viewpoints in Figures 7a and 7b respectively. The apparatus 10 comprises a selective transportation system 80 for transporting the apparatus 10 to and / or from a use location, such as between two distinct poolside locations - or for transporting the apparatus 10 between a poolside use location and a storage location. The base 24 of the apparatus 10 comprises pairs of wheels 92, 94, for transporting the apparatus 10 to, from or at the poolside by wheeling the apparatus 10. The transportation system 80 is selectively activatable by selectively raising or lowering the apparatus 10, or at least a portion thereof, with an integrated hydraulic jack. As shown in Figures 8a and 8b, the transportation system 80 comprises a steering system, which can be used to manually steer wheel sets 92, 94. The steering system is selectively activatable and selectively deactivated and manually operable, with a user rotating a handle 96 horizontally to rotate the planes of rotation of the wheel sets 92, 94, similar to a rudder.

[0120] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a steering / braking system portion 90 of the apparatus 10 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 8, the transportation system 80 comprises a braking or parking system 90. Here, the apparatus 10 comprises at least a pair of adjustable wheels or wheel sets 92, 94, which are parallel in use for transportation, such as shown in Figure 8. The apparatus 10 wheel sets 92, 94 are adjustable to have parallel planes of rotation in use for transportation (e.g. Figure 8); and non-parallel planes of rotation for parking as shown in Figure 9. The apparatus 10 is configured to lock the wheel sets 92, 94, with the apparatus 10 effectively comprising a brake 90 for locking the wheel sets 92, 94 with a manual brake lever or handle 96. Activation of the brake 90, by vertical movement or rotation of the handle 96 (in contrast to the horizontal movement for steering) causes at least one wheel set 92, 94 to be skewed, with its plane of rotation being deviated to provide a toe-angle to impede rolling of the wheel set 92, 94, with the toe-angle being a sufficient angle between at least two sets of wheels 92, 94 to impede rotation of the wheel sets 92, 94. The wheel set 94 is integrated in the transportation system 80; and is selectively deployable, by selectively jacking the transportation system 80 up or down, such that the wheel sets 92, 94 selectively engage or disengage the ground or floor therebeneath. Figure 9 shows a portion of the system 90 of Figure 8; and Figure 10 shows a side view of the portion of Figure 9. Each wheel set 92, 94 is configured for climbing or overcoming obstacles 99, such as thresholds or uneven ground. The wheel set 94 comprises wheels of different diameters, here relatively small wheels 98 and a relatively large wheel 97. The respective wheels 97, 98 of the set 94 are positioned with a lower surface at different heights, as shown in the side view of Figure 10. Here, a lower surface of the smaller wheel 98 is positioned relatively above a lower surface than the relatively larger wheel 97. The lower surface is the lowermost point of the wheel 97, 98. Accordingly, the larger wheel 97 contacts the floor or ground with its lower surface when the wheel set 94 is rolling on a flat, even, horizontal surface. When the wheel set 94 encounters an obstacle 99, such as shown in Figure 10, the lowermost point of the smaller wheel 98 contacts the obstacle and the rotation axis of the wheel set 94 moves from being the axis of rotation of the larger wheel 97 to the axis of rotation of the smaller wheel 98, thereby easing the passage of the wheel set 94 onto and over the obstacle 99.

[0121] It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary and that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention. Although shown here for accessing a pool, the lifting device may be suitable for use in other locations, such as accessing a vehicle, or accessing a raised or a lowered floor level.

[0122] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention can be realised in the form of hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software. Any such software may be stored in the form of volatile or non-volatile storage such as, for example, a storage device like a ROM, whether erasable or rewritable or not, or in the form of memory such as, for example, RAM, memory chips, device or integrated circuits or on an optically or magnetically readable medium such as, for example, a CD, DVD, magnetic disk or magnetic tape. It will be appreciated that the storage devices and storage media are embodiments of machine-readable storage that are suitable for storing a program or programs that, when executed, implement embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing a system or method as disclosed in any aspect, example, claim or embodiment of this disclosure, and a machine-readable storage storing such a program. Still further, embodiments of the present disclosure may be conveyed electronically via any medium such as a communication signal carried over a wired or wireless connection and embodiments suitably encompass the same.

[0123] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0124] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0125] The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. The claims should not be construed to cover merely the foregoing embodiments, but also any embodiments which fall within the scope of the claims, including with equivalence.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A lifting apparatus for raising a user relative to a body of water, the lifting apparatus comprising a platform configured to receive a wheelchair, the apparatus being reconfigurable between: a raised access configuration with the platform in a raised position; a lowered access configuration with the platform in a lowered position; wherein the platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration such that the apparatus is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation throughout reconfiguration between the raised and lowered access configurations; and wherein the apparatus is configurable to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100cm between the raised and lowered access positions.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a non-suspensive lifting apparatus that supports the platform throughout the lifting without use of flexible tensile members, such as ropes, chains, wires or the like.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein the platform is positioned to be substantially above the body of water in use in the raised access configuration and wherein the platform is positioned to be substantially submerged in the body of water in use in the lowered configuration.

4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the platform is in a substantially horizontal orientation in the raised and lowered access positions; and the apparatus is configured to move the platform along a substantially continuous path between the raised and lowered access positions, and wherein the path is defined substantially in a single plane, the plane being a vertical plane, perpendicular to the horizontal platform, on.

5. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 120cm, optionally at least 140cm, between the raised and lowered access positions.

6. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is configured to transition the platform between the raised access and lowered access positionsthrough an arc-shaped path of travel wherein the arc comprises a vertical component substantially greater than a horizontal component.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the vertical component is the vertical height difference and the horizontal component is half of the vertical component or less.

8. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a pair of arms for supporting the platform, each arm located on a respective opposite left and right side of the platform, with the platform rigidly supported therebetween; and the apparatus comprises a hydraulic drive system for synchronously driving the pair of arms to move the platform along the path.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each arm of the pair comprises a respective four bar mechanism incorporated in a linkage assembly, each linkage assembly connecting the platform to a base, the base configured to be fixed relative to the body of water; each linkage assembly comprising: a platform support member; a first link arm connected to the base at a first link arm base pivot, and connected to the platform support member at a first link arm platform pivot; and a second link arm connected to the base at a second link arm base pivot, and connected to the platform support member at a second link arm platform pivot; such that the first linkage assembly defines four pivot points of the four bar mechanism; wherein the first and second link arms define opposite sides of a quadrilateral representative of the four bar mechanism.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 or 9, wherein the apparatus is configured to automatically recalibrate the pair of arms to ensure synchronicity.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus is configured to automatically periodically balance the hydraulic fluid in, across or for the pair of arms.

12. The apparatus of claim 10 or 11 , wherein the hydraulic drive system comprises a stroke alignment balance, including a balancing valve, with the balancing valve being triggered by either one of the pistons reaching a point in its stroke before, or after, the other piston has reached a corresponding point in its stroke.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the point is an end point, with the balancing valve being triggerable by either one of the pistons reaching the end point in its stroke before the other piston; and the balancing valve, in use, being opened when triggered to provide additional hydraulic fluid to the other piston to drive the other piston to reach the end point in its stroke.

14. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a maximum height of 150cm or less.

15. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises an override mode, the override mode being operable to operate the platform when a primary platform drive fails.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the override comprise a mechanical manually- powered override drive to override a hydraulic primary platform drive.

17. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises an integrated transportation system for transporting the apparatus to and / or from the poolside, the transportation system being reconfigurable between activated and deactivated states.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the transportation system comprises a manually operable steering system and a manually-operable braking system.

19. A method of raising a user relative to a body of water, the method comprising: the user accessing a platform of a lifting apparatus in one of a lowered or a raised access position; maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation; and reconfiguring the apparatus to the other of the lowered or the raised access position; wherein the method comprises moving the platform through a vertical height difference of at least 100cm between the raised and lowered access positions.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the method comprises hydraulically driving a pair of lifting arms to move the platform between the raised and lowered access positions; and automatically recalibrating the pair of arms to ensure synchronicity.

Images