Motorization device for a wheelchair

Abstract

Title: Motorization Device for a Wheelchair The present invention relates to a motorization device (1) intended to support, at least in part, a wheelchair (2), the motorization device (1) being characterized in that it comprises at least one platform (6), one wheel (8) of the motorization device (1) and at least one fastening means (10) for one wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), the at least one fastening means (10) comprising at least two attachment elements (20) opposed to each other along a transverse direction (T) of the motorization device (1). (Figure 2)

Description

Title of the invention: Motorization device for a wheelchair

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of motorization devices for wheelchairs intended to accommodate a passenger in a seated position.

[0002] Wheelchairs allow people with reduced mobility to move independently in public spaces or inside their homes. Currently, there are both manually operated wheelchairs and electric wheelchairs, the latter making it easier for users to move around. However, such electric wheelchairs are expensive and more cumbersome, due to the integration of the motorization on the frame of the wheelchair, so that the use of manually operated wheelchairs remains the majority.

[0003] In this context of motorizing wheelchairs to facilitate the movement of users, additional devices have therefore been designed, which can be attached to a manually operated wheelchair, for targeted motorization of the wheelchair, for example when it is used outdoors over a long distance. These attached devices are not optimal in terms of their size and ease of use.

[0004] For example, systems are known with an additional motorized wheel, which can be fixed to a reinforcement bar mounted across the wheelchair between the front wheels. The user can then manipulate the motorized wheel to mount it on this reinforcement bar or remove it as soon as its use is no longer necessary. However, such a system has the major disadvantage of having to modify the structure of the manually operated wheelchair while leaving this reinforcement bar in place, which means that the wheelchair can no longer be folded up for transport in a vehicle.

[0005] Systems are also known with a motorized nacelle on which the wheelchair is fully mounted, which has the advantage of not having to modify the structure of the manually operated wheelchair, but which have the disadvantage of taking up considerable space on public roads and being difficult to transport in a vehicle. In particular, such motorized nacelle systems allow people with reduced mobility to travel more easily on roads but are too large to travel on roads reserved exclusively for pedestrians. Furthermore, installing the manually operated wheelchair on such a motorized nacelle can prove difficult, for example for people with reduced mobility who also have reduced motor function in their arm.

[0006] Thus, there is a real need to offer alternative devices to improve the mobility of people with reduced mobility on all types of roads and which are accessible to as many people as possible.

[0007] The invention set out above makes it possible to meet this need by proposing a motorized device capable of being associated with a manually operated wheelchair, which is both compact and simple to use.

[0008] The invention therefore relates to a motorization device intended to carry at least in part a wheelchair, the motorization device being characterized in that it comprises at least one platform, one motorized wheel and at least one means for fixing a wheel of the wheelchair, the motorized wheel and the at least one fixing means being opposite each other in a direction of main longitudinal elongation of the motorization device.

[0009] A wheelchair is understood to mean a device for receiving a person with reduced mobility in a seated position and able to move by means of four wheelchair wheels. In particular, the front wheels and rear wheels of the wheelchair are defined, this distinction between the wheels of the wheelchair being made according to the position of the person received in the wheelchair.

[0010] The platform of the motorization device according to the invention is intended to receive the front wheels of the wheelchair. Thus, it is understood that only a part of the wheelchair is carried by the platform of the motorization device, thus making it easier to install said wheelchair on the motorization device. Furthermore, such a motorization device advantageously makes it possible to add a motorization device to a wheelchair that is not originally motorized, without involving structural modifications to the wheelchair.

[0011] According to a characteristic of the invention, the at least one fixing means comprises a pair of attachment elements opposite one another in a transverse direction of the motorization device, the attachment elements of the pair of attachment elements being able to move in translation directions opposite one another along the transverse direction of the motorization device, towards one another to grip the wheel of the wheelchair.

[0012] It should be noted that the translational movement of the attachment elements in the two opposite translational directions makes it possible on the one hand to bring the latter closer together to attach a front wheel of the wheelchair and on the other hand to move the latter apart to release said front wheel from the wheelchair.

[0013] It is advantageous according to the invention that the fixing means comprises attachment elements configured to grip the wheel, instead of fixing means by snap-fastening for example, insofar as this means of attachment allows the attachment of wheels of different sizes. A single motorization device according to the invention can thus allow the motorization of different types of wheelchair while ensuring the security of the attachment for each of these types of wheelchair.

[0014] According to a characteristic of the invention, the at least one fixing means is configured to hook at least one of the front wheels of the wheelchair onto the platform of the motorization device, the hooking elements being arranged in the vicinity of an edge of the platform. Thus, the motorized device according to the invention makes it possible to receive the front wheels of the wheelchair while the rear wheels of said wheelchair remain in contact with a ground surface.

[0015] According to a characteristic of the invention, the at least one fixing means comprises a device for actuating the attachment elements with at least two endless screws capable of being driven in rotation and two nuts which move along each of the endless screws and which are integral with the attachment elements of the pair of attachment elements, the endless screws being configured to allow the nuts to move in opposite translation directions along the transverse direction of the motorization device.

[0016] It is understood in particular that the rotational drive of the worm screws is implemented when one of the front wheels of the wheelchair is arranged between the two attachment elements of the fixing means of the motorization device. The triggering of the actuating device, that is to say the rotational drive of the worm screws, can be generated by a command from the user, or automatically by detecting the correct position of the wheel between the attachment elements.

[0017] According to a characteristic of the invention, the fixing means comprises at least two main gears each associated with one of the worm screws on which the nuts are mounted, the two worm screws being connected to each other by a train of toothed wheels comprising at least said main gears.

[0018] According to a characteristic of the invention, the gear associated with each of the worm screws and the threading of these worm screws are configured to allow the translational movement of the nuts in the opposite translation directions.

[0019] According to a characteristic of the invention, the toothed wheel system comprises at least one intermediate gear arranged between the main gears of the worm screws.

[0020] Such an intermediate gear between the two gears associated with the worm screws makes it possible in particular to limit the size of the gear system according to a vertical component perpendicular to the platform, the train of toothed wheels being arranged under the platform of the motorization device. Indeed, the presence of the intermediate gear reduces the size of the main gears necessary for the movement of one to be transmitted to the other. In this context, the main gears are rotated in the same direction of rotation and the helix direction of the worm screws is different from one worm screw to another.

[0021] According to a characteristic of the invention, the main gears are directly engaged with each other. Alternatively, the number of toothed wheels in the gear train, including the main gears, is an even number. This makes it possible to have, in a context where the translational movement of the nuts in opposite translation directions is desired, the same helix direction for the two worm screws, so as to simplify assembly and achieve economies of scale in the production of the device of the invention,

[0022] According to a characteristic of the invention, the at least one fixing means comprises at least one member for driving one of the worm screws in rotation, said driving member being arranged opposite the associated gear of said worm screw, relative to its worm screw.

[0023] According to an example of the invention, the fixing means may comprise several drive members associated with each of the worm screws. Furthermore, according to a non-limiting example of the invention, the drive member may be an electric motor.

[0024] According to a characteristic of the invention, the actuating device is mounted on a plate movable along a translation axis parallel to the transverse direction of the motorization device.

[0025] All the components of the actuating device, and in particular the drive member, are arranged on the plate. It is also understood that the plate is movable in the two opposite translation directions in the transverse direction of the motorization device. It is advantageous to mount the actuating device on the plate because this prevents the pair of attachment elements from locking when only one of the attachment elements 20 is in contact with one of the front wheels of the wheelchair.

[0026] According to a characteristic of the invention, the plate comprises at least one translation bearing, said at least one translation bearing being configured to slide along a transverse guide rod secured to the platform.

[0027] It is understood that the translation bearing is configured to slide along the transverse guide rod so as to guide the movement of the plate in the two opposite translation directions.

[0028] According to a characteristic of the invention, a translation stop device is configured to block the translation of the plate when the front wheels of the wheelchair are engaged in the attachment elements. It is thus intended to block the translation of the plate and the associated translation bearings to prevent the wheelchair rolling to chase laterally during dynamic use of the motorization device. The translation stop device may have the form of a fixed notched pad, integral with the platform of the motorization device, capable of cooperating with a notched element located on an edge of the plate.

[0029] According to a characteristic of the invention, each attachment element comprises at least one base guided in translation along a holding rod.

[0030] More particularly, the nut extends from the base towards its associated worm screw. The holding rod makes it possible, among other things, to improve the holding of the attachment elements.

[0031] According to a characteristic of the invention, the platform comprises at least one slot through which the attachment elements pass. It is understood that the holding rod extends at least partly opposite the slot of the platform.

[0032] According to a characteristic of the invention, the motorization device comprises two fixing means. These two fixing means are aligned transversely and make it possible to fix the two front wheels of the wheelchair on the platform of the motorization device.

[0033] According to a characteristic of the invention, the drive members of the fixing means are arranged opposite one another and in such a way that they are offset from one another in the longitudinal direction of the motorization device.

[0034] Such a characteristic allows the plate associated with each of the fixing means to move transversely in opposite translation directions without their drive members meeting, and this in an optimized transverse size.

[0035] According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one of the attachment elements comprises a main surface intended to be opposite the side of the front wheel of the wheelchair, said main surface comprising thickened portions projecting towards the other attachment element of the pair of attachment elements.

[0036] The extra thicknesses make it possible to improve the attachment of the front wheel of the wheelchair between the two attachment elements of a pair of attachment elements. More particularly, the extra thicknesses are capable of deforming upon contact with the front wheel of the wheelchair, to match the geometry of this front wheel. The material used to produce these extra thicknesses is chosen so as to guarantee strong adhesion between the attachment element and the front wheel.

[0037] According to a characteristic of the invention, the extra thicknesses comprise a contact face with the wheel of the wheelchair, the contact face being inclined such that it faces the platform of the motorization device.

[0038] Such a feature makes it possible to improve the plating of the front wheel of the wheelchair arranged in the at least one fixing means towards the platform of the device. motorization. This improves the stability of the wheelchair on the motorization device.

[0039] According to a characteristic of the invention, the motorization device comprises at least one means for tilting the platform, the tilting means being arranged between the at least one motorized wheel and the at least one fixing means.

[0040] The tilting means makes it possible in particular to tilt the platform of the motorization device in such a way that the at least one fixing means approaches the surface of the ground, allowing the front wheel of the wheelchair to position itself therein. More particularly, the tilting means is configured so that the rear end edge of the platform, by which the wheelchair climbs onto the platform, touches the ground. The slope thus formed makes it easier for the wheelchair to climb onto the platform and for the front wheels to be positioned opposite the attachment elements.

[0041] According to an alternative of the invention, the platform is formed of two parts, a first part of the platform comprising at least one fixing means and a second part of the platform comprising at least one motorized wheel.

[0042] More specifically, the two parts of the platform are articulated relative to each other in such a way that at least one of the parts of the platform is able to pivot opposite the other part of the platform. According to an example of the invention, at least one hinge may be arranged between the two parts of the platform in such a way as to allow mobility between said parts of the platform. It is further understood that in a certain configuration, the parts of the platform may be inclined relative to each other, in particular when the wheelchair must mount onto the platform and that in another configuration, the parts of the platform extend in the extension of each other, substantially in a common plane, for example when the wheelchair is installed on said platform.

[0043] According to the alternative of the invention, the tilting means is configured to tilt the first part of the platform relative to the second part of the platform.

[0044] It is understood that the tilting device makes it possible on the one hand to ensure the tilting of the first part relative to the second part of the platform, in particular to allow the wheelchair to climb onto the platform, by lowering the first part until it touches the ground. It is advantageous according to this alternative that only part of the platform pivots, since this limits the force to be applied to the tilting device to raise the part which touches the ground. Furthermore, it is advantageous that the entire fixing means can pivot when tilting part of the platform, since this makes it possible to ensure the attachment of the front wheel of the wheelchair by the attachment elements before the platform returns to its original position. This secures the wheelchair user since the wheelchair is driven by the hooking elements when the tilting device returns the first part which has pivoted to position. Furthermore, the implementation of such tilting also makes it possible to release from the ground casters, or idlers, which also serve to facilitate turns when rolling, and this makes it possible to put gripping pads in contact with the ground so that the platform cannot move laterally when the user climbs on.

[0045] According to this alternative of the invention, the tilting device is configured to ensure that the first part is held in place relative to the second part in the common plane, in particular when the wheelchair is installed on a platform.

[0046] According to a characteristic of the invention, the tilting device comprises spring means configured to be constrained during the tilting of the first part of the platform and to assist the return to position of this first part. The springs also make it possible to promote the rise of the pivoting first part by adding to the force of the motor the kinetic energy accumulated in the form of potential energy during the descent aimed at tilting the first part.

[0047] According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one cover is arranged to cover the actuating device.

[0048] The cover is arranged to cover the at least one fixing means. The cover makes it possible, among other things, to protect the at least one fixing means arranged between the platform and the ground surface from possible projections of debris and impacts against objects protruding from the ground.

[0049] According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one wall of the hood forms an inclined plane so as not to block the tilting of the platform when the wheelchair must be placed on the platform.

[0050] According to a characteristic of the invention, at least one adhesion means is arranged on the hood.

[0051] The adhesion means makes it possible to limit the sliding of the motorization device against the surface of the ground when its platform is tilted by the tilting means.

[0052] According to a characteristic of the invention, the motorization device comprises at least three rolling members including at least one motorized wheel, with at least two of the rolling members aligned transversely and at least two of the rolling members offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the motorization device.

[0053] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several exemplary embodiments given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0054] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a motorization device according to the invention comprising at least one platform receiving a wheelchair, the front wheels of this wheelchair being fixed to the platform by appropriate fixing means;

[0055] [Fig.2] is a schematic representation of the method of installing the chair rolling on the platform of the motorization device of [Fig.l], a cover under the platform being made transparent to make visible a device for actuating the fixing means;

[0056] [Fig.3] is a bottom view of the platform of the motorization device of [Fig.l], in which the cover has been removed to make visible the device for actuating the fixing means;

[0057] [Fig.4] is a detailed view of the actuating device visible in [Fig.3], making more particularly visible a means of fixing a front wheel of the wheelchair;

[0058] [Fig.5] is a detail view of the fixing means of [Fig.3], from the other side of the platform, with hanging elements also visible in [Fig.l];

[0059] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of the motorization device according to an alternative of the invention;

[0060] [Fig.7] is a close-up view of a means of tilting the platform of the motorization device of [Fig.6].

[0061] [Fig.8] is a schematic representation in a longitudinal and vertical plane of the tilting means of [Fig.7] in a first configuration;

[0062] [Fig.9] is a schematic representation in a longitudinal and vertical plane of the tilting means of [Fig.7] in a second configuration.

[0063] [Fig.l] illustrates a motorization device 1 according to the invention, intended to carry at least in part a wheelchair 2. Wheelchair 2 is understood to mean a seat capable of receiving an individual and configured to be moved by means of at least four wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2, and in which at least one pair of wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2 constitutes a pair of front wheels 4a and another pair of wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2 constitutes a pair of rear wheels 4b. It is understood that the terms front wheels 4a and rear wheels 4b refer to a position of the user in the seat of the wheelchair.

[0064] The motorization device 1 according to the invention, visible in Figures 1 to 5, comprises a platform 6, a steering member 7, at least one motorized wheel 8 and at least one means 10 for fixing one of the wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2. The motorized wheel 8 and the at least one fixing means 10 are in particular opposite each other along a main longitudinal elongation direction L of the motorization device 1. More particularly, a front end 12 and a rear end 14 of the platform 6 of the motorization device 1 are defined, said front 12 and rear 14 ends being defined relative to the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1, and the motorized wheel 8 of the motorization device 1 is located at the front end 12 of the platform 6 while the at least one fixing means 10 is located at the rear end 14 of the platform 6.

[0065] The steering member 7 includes in particular a handlebar 13 which allows the user to guide the movement of the motorization device and therefore of the wheelchair, via a transmission device not shown here. The handlebar 13 can carry a control device for triggering the motorization of the wheels.

[0066] The platform 6 of the motorization device 1 comprises in particular a receiving surface 16 for the wheelchair 2, and a ground connection surface 18, opposite the receiving surface 16 in a vertical direction V of the motorization device 1, that is to say a direction perpendicular to a ground surface S, visible in [Fig. 2], on which the wheelchair 2 and the motorization device 1 rest. In a context of use of the motorization device 1, the ground connection surface 18 corresponds to the surface of the platform 6 which is turned towards the ground surface S on which the motorization device 1 moves.

[0067] In the context of the invention, the platform 6 has a dimensioning adapted to the dimensions of the wheelchair 2 so that the front wheels 4a of said wheelchair 2 can be received on the receiving surface 16 of said platform 6. In other words, the platform 6 has a transverse dimension DT, taken along a transverse direction T of the motorization device 1, of a value greater than the spacing distance between the front wheels of the wheelchair. The front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 are intended to be received at the rear end 14 of the platform 6. More particularly, at least one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 is intended to be housed at least partly in the at least one fixing means 10 of the motorization device 1.Once the motorization device is operational with the front wheels of the wheelchair fixed on the platform, the rear wheels 4b of the wheelchair are in contact with the ground and the motorization device 1 is stable with rolling members including at least the motorized wheel which are in contact with the ground, the platform then being substantially parallel to the surface of the ground.

[0068] The fixing means 10 according to the invention, more particularly visible in Figures 3 to 5, comprises at least two hooking elements 20 opposite each other along the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. More particularly, the hooking elements 20 of the fixing means 10 are movable along the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1 in two opposite translation directions S1, S2. Such a characteristic of the hooking elements 10 allows in particular to grip one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 when the latter is arranged at the rear end 14 of the platform 6. In other words, the hooking elements 20 move towards each other when it is necessary to grip the corresponding front wheel and they move away from each other when it is necessary to release the front wheel and the wheelchair.

[0069] To this end, the attachment elements 10 each comprise a attachment portion 22 which extends on the side of the receiving surface 16 of the platform 6, and a drive portion 24 linked to the attachment portion 22 and configured such that the drive portion 24 extends through a slot 26 formed in the platform 6 to cooperate with a device for actuating the fixing means. It is then understood that the drive portion 24 extends on either side of the receiving surface 16 and the ground connection surface 18.

[0070] The hooking elements 20 each extend in a longitudinal plane L and vertical plane V of the motorization device 1, parallel to each other, and the slot 26 of the platform 6 extends in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1 and forms a slide for the transverse movement in each of the directions of the hooking elements 10.

[0071] The actuating device 28 is arranged on the side of the ground connection surface 18 of the platform 6 and it is covered with a cover 62, in particular for reasons of protection against impacts or against projections of gravel or rainwater, which will be described in more detail below.

[0072] According to an example of the invention visible in [Fig. 5], the attachment portions 22 of the two attachment elements 20 of the fixing means 10 have an arcuate shape which allows for a complementarity of shape between the attachment element 20 and one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 as visible in [Fig. 1].

[0073] As mentioned, the attachment portion 22 of each of the attachment elements 20 is configured to be in contact with one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2. More precisely, for a pair of attachment elements of a fixing means, a main surface 30 of each of the attachment portions 22 is defined, visible in [Fig. 5], intended to be opposite the wheel of the wheelchair to be gripped by the pair of attachment elements and an external surface 32 opposite the main surface 30 in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. It is understood that, within the same fixing means 10, the main surfaces 30 of the two attachment portions 22 are opposite one another.

[0074] In the example illustrated, the main surface 30 of at least one of the attachment elements 20 comprises protuberances, or extra thicknesses 34, projecting from the main surface of one attachment element in the direction of the other attachment element 20. Each of the main surfaces 30 and the external surfaces 32 attachment elements 20 of the same fixing means 10 may comprise excess thicknesses 34 as just mentioned. Such a characteristic is of interest, in particular during the assembly of the motorization device 1. Indeed, the presence of the excess thicknesses 34 both on the external surface 32 and on the main surface 30 facilitates the positioning of the attachment elements 20 in one direction or the other during assembly.

[0075] The free end face of an excess thickness 34, opposite the main surface 30, forms a contact face 36 with one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2. According to a non-limiting and non-illustrated example of the invention, the contact face of each of the excess thicknesses can be inclined relative to the plane defined by the main surface 30 and the inclination of this contact face can be such that the contact face is opposite the platform of the motorization device. This configuration of the excess thicknesses makes it possible to improve the pressing of the front wheel of the wheelchair against the platform, and more precisely against the receiving surface 16 of the platform. The protuberances, or excess thicknesses 34, are made with a material advantageously different from that used to make the rest of the attachment element.The material chosen specifically to produce these extra thicknesses must in particular have flexibility characteristics, to fit the shape of the wheels, and grip.

[0076] As visible in figures 3 and 4, the attachment elements 20 comprise at least one base 38 which is extended laterally, more particularly here in the longitudinal direction L, by a nut 40. The base 38 extends at one end of the drive portion 24 opposite the end of said drive portion 24 connected to the attachment portion 22.

[0077] For a fixing means 10, the nuts 40 associated with the pair of attachment elements 20 extend from their respective base 38 in opposite directions to each other along the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1. In other words, the two bases 38 provided in a fixing means are aligned along the transverse direction, opposite the slot 26, and the two nuts 40 extend perpendicular to this transverse direction, one in the direction of the front end of the platform and the other in the direction of the rear end of the platform. In the example illustrated, the nuts 40 are made in two elements with a threaded brass insert which is arranged inside a support linked to the base 38, the threaded insert being screwed into this support. But it should be noted that nut 40 could be made in one piece.

[0078] Each base 38 of a hooking element 20 is configured to be movable along a holding rod 42 which extends in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. The holding rod 42 extends in particular opposite the slot 26 of the platform 6. To allow the bases 38 to slide, the holding rod 42 has a smooth external surface and each base 38 comprises at least one through cylindrical opening, delimited by a smooth wall such that said smooth wall is able to slide along the smooth external surface of the holding rod 42.

[0079] As mentioned previously, the at least two attachment elements 20 are able to move in the translation directions S1, S2 opposite to each other along the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1 and in such a way that they are able to move towards each other to grip one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2.

[0080] To do this, the at least one fixing means 10 of the motorization device 1 comprises at least one actuating device 28 configured to move the pair of attachment elements 20. The actuating device 28 can be controlled on demand by the user or automatically by detecting the presence of a front wheel of the wheelchair to be fixed.

[0081] The actuating device 28 comprises at least two worm screws 44 capable of being driven in rotation by an actuating member 52 and which cooperate with the nuts 40 associated with the attachment elements 20 as described previously. The nut 40 / worm screw 44 assembly, under the effect of the implementation of the actuating member 52, makes it possible to move said nut 40 along its associated worm screw 44. In particular, according to the invention, the worm screws 44 make it possible to move the nuts 40 in the opposite translation directions S1, S2 along the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1.

[0082] In the embodiment which is more particularly described here, the actuating device 28 provided for a fixing means 10 comprises a single actuating member 52, the implementation of which generates the simultaneous movement, in two opposite directions, of the two assemblies formed by nuts 40 and bases 38. It will be understood that without departing from the context of the invention, an actuating member could be provided for each endless screw.

[0083] In the case of a single actuating member 52, the actuating device 28 comprises a gear train 46 comprising at least two main gears 48 respectively associated with one of the worm screws 44, so as to be able to transmit the rotational torque received by one of the worm screws to the other of the worm screws. In the example illustrated, the gear train 46 also comprises an intermediate gear 50 meshing between the main gears 48 of the worm screws 44. It is understood from such a configuration of the gear train 46 that depending on the direction of rotation of the actuating member, the main gears 48 associated with the worm screws 44 are configured to rotate simultaneously according to a same first direction of rotation RI around their respective axis of rotation while the intermediate gear 50 rotates in a second direction of rotation R2, opposite to the first direction of rotation RI, around its axis of rotation, and vice versa.

[0084] As visible in [Fig. 4], the gear train 46 extends along the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1, with an arrangement of the gears composing it successively along the longitudinal direction, and it is understood that the respective axes of rotation of each of the gears 48 of the worm screws 44 and of the intermediate gear 50 are distinct from each other and parallel to the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1.

[0085] As mentioned, the actuating device 28 associated with the fixing means 10 here comprises a single drive member 52 for rotating at least one of the worm screws 44. More precisely, the drive member 52 is associated with one of the worm screws 44 of the fixing means 10 and in such a way that it is capable of driving it in rotation in at least the first direction of rotation RI and the second direction of rotation R2 according to the fixing means must grip a front wheel of a wheelchair or, on the contrary, must allow its release. The drive member 52 is in particular arranged opposite the main gear 48 of the worm screw 44 with which it is associated, in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. The drive member 52 may be, for example, an electric motor.

[0086] Thus, it is understood that when the drive member 52 rotates one of the worm screws 44 in the first direction of rotation RI, the latter rotates its associated main gear 48 in the first direction of rotation RI, which itself rotates the intermediate gear 50 in the second direction of rotation R2, such that the intermediate gear 50 rotates the main gear 48 of the other worm screw 44 in the first direction of rotation RL. Such rotation of the main gears 48 and their worm screw 44 therefore makes it possible to move the associated nuts 40 in translation, and thus the attachment elements 20.Additionally, in this illustrated embodiment, the threads of the two worm screws 44 are oriented one to the left and the other to the right, such that the rotation of the two main gears 48 in the same direction of rotation causes a translational movement of the associated nuts 44 in the two opposite directions, as is desired in the invention.

[0087] Arbitrarily, in this description, a first direction of translation SI of the nuts 40 and a second direction of translation S2 of the nuts 40 are defined, parallel and opposite to each other along the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. In the case where the drive member 52 drives the gears 48 in rotation in the first direction of rotation RI as mentioned above, a first nut 40 will move along its worm screw 44 in the first translation direction SI and the second nut 40 will move along its worm screw 44 in the second translation direction S2, such that the nuts 40, and therefore the associated hooking elements 20, move closer to each other. Conversely, in the case where the drive member 52 rotates the gears 48 in the second rotation direction R2, the translational movement of the nuts 40 along their worm screw 44 in the first translation direction SI for the second nut 40 and in the second translation direction S2 for the first nut 40, which will have the effect of moving them away from each other in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1.

[0088] The actuating device 28 is mounted on a plate 54 which is movable along a translation axis AT parallel to the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. More particularly, the movable plate 54 extends opposite the ground connection surface 18 of the platform 6 of the motorization device 1. The plate 54 carries on one face, facing away from the ground connection surface 18 of the platform, the various components of the actuating device 28 which have just been described, including in particular the endless screws 44 fixed at each of their ends on the plate 54, the train of toothed wheels 46, the actuating member 52 or the holding rod 42 along which the bases 38 of the attachment elements 20 slide.The plate 54 comprises a light 56 ​​arranged at least partly opposite the slot 26 of the platform 6 so that the drive portions 24 can pass through the platform 6 to carry the hooking portions 22. More precisely, the complementary slot 56 has a dimensioning and a shape substantially identical to the slot 26 of the platform 6.

[0089] According to a characteristic of the invention, the plate 54 comprises at least one translation bearing 58 intended to slide along a transverse guide rod 60 fixed directly to the ground connection surface 18 of the platform. The transverse guide rod 60 extends in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1 and has a smooth wall such that the translation bearing 58 of the plate 54 is able to slide transversely around it. According to the example of the invention illustrated, the plate 54 comprises two translation bearings 58 arranged on either side of the plate such that they are opposite each other in the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1. It is further understood that the motorization device 1 comprises, according to this example of the invention illustrated, two transverse guide rods 60, each being able to cooperate with one of the translation bearings 58 of the plate 54.The transverse guide rods 60 then extend on either side of the plate 54 in the longitudinal direction L and in such a way. that at least the worm screws 44 are arranged between said transverse guide rods 60.

[0090] The plate 54 according to the invention is capable of translating in the first translation direction S1 and the second translation direction S2 mentioned above. Advantage is then taken of the movable plate 54 according to the invention, in that it prevents the translational blocking of one of the attachment elements 20 when the other attachment element 20 of the same fixing means 10 is blocked by its contact with one of the front wheels of the wheelchair. As will be mentioned below, this is in particular possible by adjusting the adjustment of the sliding mounting of the plate 54 on the guide rods 60 so that the plate only translates when one of the attachment elements is in contact with a front wheel. It is also possible to provide a system for stopping the plate, not shown here, which allows, by a complementarity of shapes, for example by notching, to block the movement of the plate when the wheels are engaged in the attachment elements.

[0091] This configuration with the movable plate makes it possible in particular to reduce the forces undergone by the components of the fixing means and in particular of the associated actuation device 28, while ensuring that the front wheel to be fixed is properly secured to the platform 6 via the attachment elements 20 and this regardless of the dimension of the front wheel and the positioning of the latter between the attachment elements before their movement. As mentioned, the actuation device is configured to bring the two attachment elements 20 closer to each other so as to grip the front wheel of the wheelchair.However, during this maneuver, it is common for the front wheel of the wheelchair to not be positioned equidistant from the two attachment elements 20, such that during the translational movement of the latter, one of the attachment portions 22 of one of the attachment elements 20 may encounter the front wheel of the wheelchair before the other attachment element 20.Thus, when one of the attachment elements 20 comes into contact with the front wheel of the wheelchair and exerts pressure on this front wheel in a given direction, for example here the first translation direction S1, the plate is driven in translation in the opposite direction, here the second translation direction S2, and this movement of the plate 54 allows the other attachment element 20 to continue its translational movement along the worm screw 44 without excessive stress being exerted on the nut and worm screw assembly associated with the attachment element already in contact with the front wheel. It should be noted that the movement of the plate is in the same translational direction as the translational direction of the attachment element not yet in contact with the front wheel, which tends to accelerate the moment when the attachment element comes into contact with the front wheel of the wheelchair. This ensures the attachment of the front wheel of the . wheelchair on the platform 6 by the fixing means 10, without said front wheel necessarily being positioned equidistant from the attachment elements 20 of said fixing means 10, and regardless of the thickness of the wheel, by limiting the mechanical constraints on the actuating device. This simplifies the use of the motorization device 1, by not requiring marking on the platform which would require the user to correctly position the front wheels of his wheelchair on the platform.

[0092] An example of operation of the fixing means 10 will be explained in the following, this example being non-limiting and having the sole purpose of clarifying the operation and the advantages of the motorization device 1 according to the invention. This example of operation is based on Figures 1 to 5.

[0093] According to this example of operation of the invention, the actuating device 28 of a fixing means 10 is implemented when one of the front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 is arranged between the attachment elements 20 of this fixing means 10, being at least partly opposite the slot 26 of the platform 6. The drive member 52 of the actuating device 28 is started, automatically or following the user's command. As mentioned, the attachment elements 20 of a pair of attachment elements move towards each other, in translation in an opposite direction allowing this movement towards each other.

[0094] More particularly, the drive member 52 rotates, in the first direction of rotation RI, the worm screw 44 with which it is directly engaged, where appropriate via a reducer, such that this worm screw 44 rotates the main gear 48 associated with it. The configuration of the gear train is here such that the two worm screws 44 of the actuating device 28 are rotated in the first direction of rotation RI and the threading of the two worm screws ensures that the associated attachment elements 20 move closer to each other.

[0095] During this movement, one of the attachment elements 20, here arbitrarily the attachment element moving in the first translation direction S1, comes into contact with the front wheel 4a, such that this contact generates a stress of forces against the transverse movement of this attachment element while the drive member 52 continues its rotational drive of the endless screws 44. The force exerted on the entire actuating device 28 by the contact of the front wheel 4a, directed here in the second translation direction S2, generates a movement of the plate 54 in the second translation direction S2. It should be noted that the adjustment of the sliding mounting of the plate 54 on the guide rods 60 is different from the adjustment of the sliding mounting of the bases 38 of the attachment elements 20 on the holding rod 42, such that the bases 38 slide more easily than the plate. When no force other than the driving force of the worm screws 44 is exerted on the bases 38, these slide without the plate moving, but as soon as a contrary force is applied and hinders their sliding, the plate 54 can slide along the guide rods 60.

[0096] As mentioned, the sliding of the plate makes it possible to accompany the movement of the other attachment element 20 in the second direction of translation S2 so that the latter also ends up coming into contact with the front wheel 4a of the wheelchair 2.

[0097] In the example illustrated, the motorization device 1 comprises two fixing means 10 as described previously, it being understood that only one of the front wheels could be held by such a fixing means, the other front wheel being able to be held on the platform by an alternative means.

[0098] The two fixing means 10 are in particular arranged in the vicinity of the rear end 14 of the platform 6 and in such a way that they are aligned parallel to the rear end edge, in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1. The two fixing means 10 thus make it possible to fix each of the two front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2 on the platform 6 of the motorization device 1, each of the fixing means 10 ensuring the maintenance of one of said front wheels 4a of the wheelchair 2. It is notable that the two fixing means 10 are aligned in the transverse direction at a close distance from the rear end edge, so that it is the front wheels of the wheelchair which are engaged on these fixing means and the rear wheels of the wheelchair then rest on the ground.

[0099] The actuating devices 28 associated with each of these fixing means 10 are arranged against the ground connection surface 18 of the platform 6 in such a way that the drive members 52 are arranged opposite one another and offset from one another in the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1. Such a characteristic makes it possible to prevent the drive members 52 from meeting during the translational movement of the plates 54, while limiting the transverse dimension of the platform 6.

[0100] As mentioned previously, the motorization device 1 comprises a cover 62, partially visible in [Fig.2], which is arranged to cover the actuating device(s) 28.

[0101] The hood 62 comprises two side walls 63, one of which is visible in [Fig.l] and has been removed to make the actuating devices visible in [Fig.2], which close the hood transversely, a front wall and a rear wall 64 which close the hood longitudinally and a covering wall 66 which closes the hood vertically and which connects together all the other walls of the hood. The covering wall is substantially parallel to the plane in which the ground connection surface 18 of the platform 6. At least the rear wall 64 forms an inclined ramp, between the rear end edge 14 of the platform 6 and a longitudinal end edge 68 secured to the covering wall 66. Such an inclined ramp shape of this rear wall 64 makes it possible not to block the inclination of the platform 6 in a plane intersecting a plane of the ground surface S, as can be seen in [Fig. 2], this inclination of the platform aiming to position the rear end edge of the platform on the ground as close as possible to the ground to allow the user of the wheelchair 2 to raise its front wheels 4a onto the platform 6.

[0102] In order to limit the mobility of the motorization device 1 when the user raises his wheelchair onto the platform 6, said motorization device 1 comprises at least one adhesion means 70. The adhesion means 70 can take the form of a notched strip making it possible to grip the surface of the ground S. The adhesion means 70 is in particular arranged on the cover 62 of the motorization device 1, on the face of the inclined rear wall 64 which is intended to be in contact with the ground S when the platform is inclined.

[0103] In order to tilt the platform 6 as mentioned above, the motorization device 1 comprises at least one tilting means 72 visible in FIGS. 2 and 3. More particularly, the tilting means 72 is arranged between the cover 62 and the front end 12 of the platform 6. The tilting means 72 here comprises at least one arm 74 deployable in the vertical direction V of the motorization device 1. The deployable arm 74 here comprises a connecting rod system and is made mobile by means of a motorized assembly 76 which may comprise, for example, a worm / nut assembly and a motor, for example an electric motor. It should be noted that other types of tilting means could be implemented without departing from the context of the invention, provided that this makes it possible to tilt the platform 6 backwards so that the rear end edge 14 is in contact with the ground.In this position, with the gripping means 70 in contact with the ground surface S, the front end 12 of the platform is raised and the motorized wheels 8 arranged in the vicinity of this front end 12 are no longer in contact with the ground.

[0104] According to the invention and as mentioned, the motorization device 1 comprises at least one motorized wheel 8, and more particularly here two motorized wheels 8 aligned transversely. The motorization device 1 further comprises at least one castor 9, and more particularly here two castors 9, non-motorized and which have the effect of ensuring the stability of the platform and its position substantially parallel to the surface of the ground when the wheelchair moves thanks to the motorization device. Furthermore, the castor(s) 9 are pivoting wheels which can turn around of the vertical axis perpendicular to the platform, in order to allow the motorization device to turn in bends.

[0105] The castor(s) 9 are offset relative to the motorized wheel(s) 8 in the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1. According to the example of the invention illustrated, the motorization device 1 thus comprises four rolling members with a pair of motorized wheels 8 and a pair of castors 9. The pair of motorized wheels 8 is arranged at the front end 12 of the platform 6 and the pair of castors 9 is arranged longitudinally between the pair of motorized wheels 8 and the fixing means 10. It should be noted that only three rolling members, with at least one motorized wheel, could be provided since their arrangement in transverse and longitudinal offset allows the platform to be stable when the wheelchair must be driven by the motorization device.

[0106] An alternative of the invention will now be described in cooperation with Figures 6 to 9. It is further understood that only the distinct characteristics of the alternative of the invention compared to the description above will be the subject of a description, and that for the common characteristics it will be appropriate to refer to Figures 1 to 5.

[0107] According to the alternative of the invention, the platform 6 is formed of two parts articulated with respect to each other, namely a first part 6a and a second part 6b. More particularly, the first part 6a of the platform 6 comprises at least the at least one fixing means 10 mentioned previously, and the second part 6b comprises at least the at least one motorized wheel 8. Furthermore, the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the platform 6 are separated from each other by a space which extends in the transverse direction T of the motorization device 1, such a space helping to allow mobility between the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the platform 6. Thus, in order to connect the two parts 6a, 6b of the platform 6, at least one hinge 80 extends in the space between the first part 6a and the second part 6b of said platform 6.According to the example of the invention, four hinges 80 are distributed transversely between the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the platform 6, so as to ensure optimal support between the latter. It is also understood that the hinges 80 allow the pivoting of one of the parts 6a, 6b of the platform relative to the other part 6a, 6b.

[0108] According to the alternative of the invention, the motorization device 1 also comprises a tilting means 72, but this is intended, in this alternative of the invention of figures 6 and 9, to tilt only one of the parts 6a, 6b of the platform 6. More precisely, the tilting means 72 according to the alternative of the invention is configured to tilt the first part 6a of the platform 6, that is to say the part carrying the at least one fixing means 10, relative to the second part 6b of the platform 6. It is thus understood that, contrary to what was previously described for figures 1 to 5, only a part 6a, 6b of the platform 6 is inclined, namely here the first part 6a, and that in the inclined position which allows the wheelchair to climb onto the platform, the front motorized wheel 8 is substantially in contact with the road. In this context, the motor associated with the front wheel is in brake mode, for example via an electrical short circuit preventing rotation of the motor, in order to ensure the stability of the platform. The casters 9, or pivoting idler wheels, are no longer in contact with the ground so that the braking of the front wheel is sufficient to make the platform stable.

[0109] The tilting means 72 is more particularly illustrated in Figures 7 to 9. The tilting means 72 extends between the first part 6a and the second part 6b of the platform 6 while being arranged opposite the ground connection surface 18 of the platform 6.

[0110] More precisely, the tilting means 72 comprises at least one threaded rod 82, intended to be driven in rotation by a drive means 86 secured to the second part 6b of the platform, a tilting rod 84 connected to the threaded rod via a connecting member 88 configured to move along the threaded rod 82 and a support 90 articulated on the tilting rod 84 and made integral with the first part 6a of the platform.

[0111] The threaded rod 82 is held at a distance from the first part 6a of the platform via bearings and it is connected at a free end to the drive means 86, here taking the form of an electric motor. The threaded rod 82 extends along the longitudinal direction L of the motorization device 1. The tilting rod 84 is mounted at one of its ends on a nut of appropriate size in order to connect it to the connecting member 88, and it is mounted articulated, at its opposite end, to the support 90, forming an articulation zone 91.

[0112] The support 90, more particularly visible in [Fig.8] or 9, has a square shape, with two branches substantially perpendicular to each other forming a single-piece assembly, and among which a first branch linked to one end of the tilting rod 84 in the articulation zone 91 and a second branch fixed to the first part 6a of the platform.

[0113] The tilting means 72 further comprises a return device which comprises at least one spring 93. In the example illustrated, each spring 93 is arranged around an arm 92, with here two arms 92 arranged on either side of the tilting link 84 and the threaded rod 82. Each arm 92 has a cylinder articulated at one end on the second part 6b of the platform 6 and a piston capable of sliding within the cylinder and the free end of which is linked to the articulation zone 91. Each arm 92 comprises a spring 93 mounted around the piston and arranged between a plate secured to the cylinder and a plate secured to the free end of the piston, the movement of the piston generating a compression or an expansion of the spring 93.

[0114] The spring 93 has the function of assisting the motor when the first part 6a of the platform rises. In other words, the spring is configured to be constrained when the first part 6a of the platform is tilted, during which the effect of gravity helps the motor to cause the movement of the first part 6a, and the elastic return force tends to assist the motor when the first part 6a returns to its original position, in the extension of the second part 6b.

[0115] A damping function, making it possible to control the rise or fall of the first part 6a of the platform 6 relative to the second part 6b, could be implemented by placing a spring, equivalent to the spring 93 illustrated, around the connecting rod 84.

[0116] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate the operation of the tilting means 72, it being understood that other embodiments could be implemented provided that they allow, in accordance with this alternative, to move a part of the platform comprising the entirety of the fixing system.

[0117] In a rest position, which also happens to be a rolling position, illustrated in [Fig. 8], the first part 6a of the platform is arranged in the extension of the second part. To move into a mounting position in which a part 6a of the platform 6 is inclined to allow the wheelchair to mount on said platform 6 and which is illustrated in [Fig. 9], the threaded rod 82 is rotated in a first direction of rotation and the connecting member 88 is moved in longitudinal translation along the threaded rod 82, towards the drive means 86, which has the effect of pulling on the tilting link 84.

[0118] In this way, the tilting rod 84 moves the articulation zone 91 and therefore both the first branch of the support 90 and the free end of the piston of each of the arms.

[0119] The movement of the first branch of the support 90, while the second branch is fixed on the first part 6a of the platform 6, involves the pivoting of this first part 6a relative to the second part 6b, around the pivoting axis defined by the hinge(s) 80. The pivoting is such that the free end edge of the first part 6a, forming the rear end edge 14 of the platform, moves towards the ground, until it comes into contact with the ground, or at least until the adhesion means 70 meets the ground.

[0120] At the same time, the movement of the free end of the piston of each of the arms tends to compress the spring, which increases the restoring force against of the pivoting of the support 90 and of the first part 6a previously mentioned. This ensures that the first part of the platform comes to rest smoothly on the ground, without shock which could damage the actuating device 28 housed within the cover 62.

[0121] In this mounting position, the casters 9, not visible in [Fig.9], are raised so as to no longer touch the ground, the assembly being made stable by the grip means 70 and the motorized wheel. The user can easily raise the front wheels of his chair onto the inclined plane formed by the first part 6a of the platform 6, and the fixing means 10 can play their role in locking the wheelchair in position.

[0122] Once the wheelchair is fixed to the platform 6 via the fixing means 10, the drive means 86 can be controlled, or be deactivated depending on the configuration of the screw-nut assembly formed by the threaded rod and the connecting member, to let the elastic return force of the spring 93 push and return the articulation zone 91 to the original position, or rolling position, illustrated in [Fig. 8]. In this original position, the tilting means returns the first part 6a of the platform 6 to a longitudinal plane L and transverse plane T, substantially common to the plane of elongation of the second part 6b.

[0123] Once in the rolling position, the spring 93 is in a relaxed configuration. It should be noted that during rolling, the first part 6a is held longitudinally relative to the second part 6b, with a minimum of micro displacements which could hinder the user, due to the configuration of the spring 93, which should be compressed to allow these micro displacements.

[0124] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims

1. Motorization device (1) intended to at least partially carry a wheelchair (2), the motorization device (1) comprising at least one platform (6), a motorized wheel (8) and at least one means (10) for fixing a wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), the motorized wheel (8) and the at least one fixing means (10) being opposite each other along a main longitudinal elongation direction (L) of the motorization device (1), the at least one fixing means (10) comprising a pair of attachment elements (20) opposite each other along a transverse direction (T) of the motorization device (1), the motorization device being characterized in that the attachment elements (20) of the pair of attachment elements (20) are capable of moving in translation directions (S1, S2) opposite each other along the transverse direction (T) of the motorization device (1),in approach to each other to grip the wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), the at least one fixing means (10) comprising an actuating device (28) for the attachment elements (20) with at least two endless screws (44) capable of being driven in rotation and two nuts (40) which move along each of the endless screws (44) and which are integral with the attachment elements (20) of the pair of attachment elements, the endless screws (44) being configured to allow the movement of the nuts (40) in the opposite translation directions (SI, S2) along the transverse direction (T) of the motorization device (1).,

2. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the fixing means (10) comprises at least two main gears (48) each associated with one of the worm screws (44) on which the nuts (40) are mounted, the two worm screws (44) being connected to each other by a train of toothed wheels (46) comprising at least said main gears (48).

3. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the at least one fixing means (10) comprises at least one drive member (52) for rotation of one of the worm screws (44), said drive member (52) being arranged opposite the associated gear (48) of said worm screw (44), relative to its worm screw (44).

4. Motorization device (1) according to any one of claims 2 or 3, in which the main gear associated with each of the worm screws and the thread of these worm screws are configured to allow the translational movement of the nuts in the opposite translation directions.

5. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the actuating device (28) is mounted on a plate (54) movable along a translation axis (AT) parallel to the transverse direction (T) of the motorization device (1).

6. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the plate (54) comprises at least one translation bearing (58), said at least one translation bearing (58) being configured to slide along a transverse guide rod (60) secured to the platform.

7. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the platform (6) comprises at least one slot (26) through which the attachment elements (20) pass.

8. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one tilting means (72) of the platform (6), the tilting means (72) being arranged between the at least one motorized wheel (8) and the at least one fixing means (10).

9. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the platform (6) is formed of two parts (6a, 6b), a first part (6a) of the platform (6) comprising at least one fixing means (10) and a second part (6b) of the platform (6) comprising at least one motorized wheel (8).

10. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 8, wherein the tilting means (72) is configured to tilt the first part (6a) of the platform (6) relative to the second part (6b) of the platform (6).

11. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one cover (62) arranged to cover the actuating device (28).

12. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, in which at least one adhesion means (70) is arranged on the cover (62).

13. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least three rolling members (8, 9) among which the at least one motorized wheel (8), with at least two of the rolling members aligned transversely and at least two of the rolling members offset from each other in the longitudinal direction of the motorization device.

Images