Motorization device for wheelchair

Abstract

Title of the invention: Motorization device for wheelchair. The present invention relates to a motorization device (1) intended to support, at least partially, a wheelchair (2). The motorization device (1) comprises at least one platform (14), one motorized wheel (8), and at least one fastening means (24) for a wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2). The fastening means (24) comprises a first jaw and a second jaw configured to pivot respectively between a first receiving position in which the jaws have a first angular separation between them and a second holding position, capable of retaining the wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), in which the jaws have a second angular separation between them that is smaller than the first angular separation. Abstract figure: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Motorization device for 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 within their homes. Currently, there are both manual and electric wheelchairs, the latter making it easier for users to move around. However, such electric wheelchairs are expensive and bulkier due to the integration of the motor into the wheelchair frame, so the use of manual wheelchairs remains predominant.

[0003] In this context of motorizing wheelchairs to facilitate user mobility, additional devices have been designed that can be attached to a manually operated wheelchair for targeted motorization, for example, when the wheelchair is used outdoors over long distances. However, these add-on devices are not optimal in terms of size and ease of use.

[0004] For example, some devices require modifying the structure of a manually operated wheelchair, meaning the wheelchair can no longer be folded for transport in a vehicle. Conversely, other platform-type devices, in which the wheelchair is fully enclosed, allow the wheelchair's structural integrity to be maintained. However, these devices have the disadvantage of being quite bulky on public roads and make transport in a vehicle difficult. It can also be difficult for a person with reduced mobility to load their wheelchair onto the platform.Other, less bulky systems are also known that can be grafted onto an existing wheelchair structure without modification, but which require the implementation of an adapter to be fixed to the wheelchair frame so that this adapter can subsequently receive the system, for example a motorized third wheel.

[0005] The present invention falls within this context by proposing a motorized device suitable for use with a manually operated wheelchair, this motorized device being both compact and easy to use.

[0006] The main object of the present invention is therefore a motorization device intended to at least partially support a wheelchair, the motorization device comprising at least one platform, one motorized wheel and at least one means for securing a wheel of the wheelchair, the means for securing comprising a first jaw and a second jaw configured to pivot respectively between a first receiving position in which the jaws have a first angular separation between them and a second holding position, capable of retaining the wheel of the wheelchair, in which the jaws have a second angular separation between them that is less than the first angular separation.

[0007] The motorization device according to the invention is designed to raise at least a portion of the wheelchair so that it is supported by the platform, the motorization device thus enabling the wheelchair to be steered by means of its motorized wheel. Hereinafter, "wheelchair" means a device capable of accommodating a person with reduced mobility in a seated position and able to move by means of a plurality of wheelchair wheels. Specifically, the front and rear wheels of the wheelchair are defined, this distinction between the wheels being made according to the position of the person being accommodated in the wheelchair. The motorization device allows, for example, the front wheels of the wheelchair to be supported, which are received on the platform by means of at least one fastening means.This attachment method is specifically formed at the longitudinal end opposite the motorized wheel of the drive unit. Thus, only a portion of the wheelchair is supported by the drive unit, reducing its overall size and eliminating the need for structural modifications to the wheelchair.

[0008] In order to receive the front wheels of the wheelchair and then hold them in position, the drive unit is equipped with at least one fastening means. This fastening means comprises two pivoting jaws, which move closer together to move from their receiving position to their holding position. By pivoting, the jaws reduce their angular separation. This angular separation is expressed as an absolute value and is measured between the inner faces of the jaws. For example, in the receiving position of the jaws, the first angular separation can be on the order of 180°, that is, 180° plus or minus 20°, thus forming a substantially flat receiving area. In the holding position, the second angular separation is, for example, at most 90°, thus forming a V-shaped retaining area.

[0009] According to an optional feature of the invention, the jaws are configured to pivot in a synchronized manner.

[0010] In other words, a passage of the jaws from their reception position to their holding position or vice versa results from coordinated pivoting of the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0011] According to an optional feature of the invention, the jaws have parallel axes of rotation.

[0012] This makes it easier to synchronize the pivoting of the jaws, and to ensure that the jaws are not offset from each other which would hinder the proper holding of the wheelchair wheel.

[0013] According to an optional feature of the invention, the jaws are configured to pivot respectively around a pivot axis substantially perpendicular to a direction of advancement of the motorization device.

[0014] Consequently, in the locked position, the jaws act as a stop to the longitudinal movement of the front wheel of the wheelchair. In particular, the jaw located at the rear of the drive unit, that is, opposite the driven wheel of this drive unit, blocks this front wheel and prevents it from moving.

[0015] According to an optional feature of the invention, the motorization device includes a means for driving at least the first jaw of the fastening means.

[0016] The drive means allows the direct movement of at least the first jaw.

[0017] According to an optional feature of the invention, the drive means is configured to drive the first jaw, the first jaw being configured to drive the second jaw.

[0018] Advantageously, this provides a single drive means whereby the drive means acts directly only on the first jaw, which in turn transmits the rotational movement to the second jaw. Using a single drive means to rotate both jaws simultaneously reduces the number of components required to move the jaws from their receiving position to their holding position or vice versa. In particular, when the first jaw is a rear jaw of the drive mechanism, the overall size of the drive mechanism is reduced. Here, "single" means that there is only one drive means to move both jaws of a given fastening means.

[0019] According to an optional feature of the invention, the drive means comprises at least one movable rod in translation and a connecting rod driven by the rod, the connecting rod being connected to the first jaw.

[0020] The moving rod in translation is, for example, a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder or an output shaft of an electric motor. A free end of this rod in turn drives a connecting rod which is interposed between the rod and the first jaw and allows this first jaw to pivot.

[0021] According to an optional feature of the invention, the drive means includes a means for blocking a pivoting of the jaws.

[0022] During the transition of the jaws from their initial position to their holding position, their movement to close is blocked when they come into contact with the wheelchair wheel. The blocking mechanism includes a sensor such as a force sensor, a contact sensor, or a pressure sensor. Alternatively, the movement of the jaws is blocked when they have a given angular deviation; in other words, beyond a threshold value of the angular deviation, the pivoting of the jaws is prevented.

[0023] According to an optional feature of the invention, the drive means includes a gear system disposed between the first jaw and the second jaw.

[0024] In the context of a single drive means, the drive means comprises a first pivot axis for the first jaw and a second pivot axis for the second jaw, a gear wheel being disposed around each of these two pivot axes. More precisely, the gear wheel of the first pivot axis meshes with the gear wheel of the second pivot axis. The gear system transmits the rotation from the first jaw to the second jaw, thus driving them synchronously.

[0025] According to an optional feature of the invention, at least one of the jaws comprises a rigid main body and a flexible coating.

[0026] The jaw is thus bi-material, with a main body that is more rigid than the flexible coating that at least partially covers it. Either only one of the jaws has the flexible coating, or both are equipped with it.

[0027] By way of example, the rigid main body has a hardness ranging from 170 MPa to 825 MPa according to the Vickers hardness scale, depending on the material used to make the rigid main body. The flexible coating, on the other hand, has a hardness ranging from 50 ShA to 98 ShA according to the Shore hardness scale.

[0028] The fact that the jaw is made of two materials, in combination with the pivoting jaws, facilitates the mounting of the wheelchair wheel within the fastening means and retains them when the drive system is in motion and propelling the wheelchair. In particular, the rigidity of the main body ensures the tilting movement of the jaws despite the weight of the front wheel of the wheelchair, and the flexibility of the soft coating allows it to adhere to the wheelchair wheel while limiting the stresses applied to it.

[0029] According to an optional feature of the invention, the soft covering has means for lateral retention of the wheelchair wheel.

[0030] Herein, "lateral restraint" means restraint in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel of the drive device, and substantially parallel to an axis of the wheelchair wheel when it is housed between the jaws in their retaining position. The lateral restraint means are thus configured to prevent lateral translation of the wheelchair wheel.

[0031] The lateral restraint means form longitudinal notches for the wheelchair wheel, which correspond to guiding means for this wheel according to the direction of travel of the drive system. Since the lateral restraint means are formed within the flexible cover, they are deformable under the pressure of the front wheel and are thus adaptable to different sizes of this wheelchair wheel.

[0032] According to an optional feature of the invention, the lateral retention means form peaks and depressions within the flexible coating.

[0033] The depressions within the flexible covering constitute receiving areas for the wheelchair wheel, while the peaks correspond to lateral stop means. It is possible to have a plurality of depressions along the lateral dimension of the jaws, so as to accommodate different diameters of front wheels. Depending on the embodiment, the lateral restraint means can take different forms, their peaks forming, for example, studs, cones, wavy lines, straight lines, broken lines, etc.

[0034] According to an optional feature of the invention, the motorization device includes means for detecting the wheel of the wheelchair.

[0035] Such means for detecting the wheelchair wheel correspond to proximity sensors, which, for example, use infrared emitters. Depending on the case, the detection means can be used to trigger, upon detection of the wheelchair wheel, either the movement of the jaws into their receiving position or their holding position.

[0036] According to an optional feature of the invention, the first jaw corresponds to a rear jaw and the second jaw corresponds to a front jaw, the front jaw being closer to the motorized wheel than the rear jaw.

[0037] According to an optional feature of the invention, in the jaw reception position, the rear jaw forms a ramp for the wheelchair wheel.

[0038] The ramp can be formed, in particular, by the position of the rear jaw, which is inclined relative to the platform at an angle such that the rear jaw extends towards the ground, or even makes contact with the ground. In other words, the jaws' reception position can take on an extreme configuration, with an angular separation between the jaws exceeding 180°. The ramp position of the jaws facilitates mounting the wheelchair wheel onto the mounting means. The position The ramp jaws also have a stabilizing function, by lifting the rear wheels of the drive device off the ground.

[0039] According to an optional feature of the invention, the rear jaw has a beveled edge, to facilitate access of the jaw to the front wheel of the wheelchair.

[0040] According to an optional feature of the invention, the rear jaw is equipped, on an external face, with a skid.

[0041] This pad allows it to conform to the shape of the ground on which the motorization device rests and improves its grip.

[0042] According to an optional feature of the invention, the fastening means is unique and extends mainly perpendicularly to a direction of advancement of the motorization device.

[0043] This is a first embodiment of the motorization device according to the invention, in which there is a single means of attachment configured to receive the two front wheels of the wheelchair.

[0044] According to an optional feature of the invention, the motorization device comprises a first fixing means and a second fixing means disposed on either side of a plane of symmetry of the motorization device extending substantially parallel to a direction of advancement of the motorization device.

[0045] This is a second embodiment of the motorization device according to the invention, in which each of the front wheels of the wheelchair is received in a dedicated mounting means. In this second embodiment, there is either a common drive means for both mounting means, or a drive means associated with each mounting means.

[0046] Other features, details and advantages of the invention will become clearer upon reading the following description on the one hand, and the illustrative and non-limiting examples of embodiments given with reference to the accompanying drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0047] [Fig-1] illustrates, schematically, a motorization device according to the invention as well as a manually operated wheelchair intended to be at least partially supported by the motorization device, the fixing device having for this purpose at least one means of fixing a wheel of the wheelchair;

[0048] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates the motorization device of the [Fig.1], of the jaws of the fastening means being in a position to accommodate the wheelchair wheel;

[0049] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the motorization device of the [Fig.1], of the jaws of the fastening means being in a position to hold the wheelchair wheel;

[0050] [Fig.4] illustrates, schematically, a close-up view of the jaws of the fastening means in their holding position, with the wheelchair wheel engaged between the jaws;

[0051] [Fig.5] illustrates, schematically, an exploded view of the jaws which comprise a rigid main body and a flexible coating;

[0052] [Fig.6] illustrates, schematically, a variant embodiment of the flexible coating of the jaws.

[0053] The features, variants, and different embodiments of the invention can be combined in various ways, provided they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be conceived comprising only a selection of features, described hereafter in isolation from the other described features, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage and / or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0054] In the figures, the elements common to several figures retain the same reference.

[0055] In the detailed description that follows, the terms "longitudinal," "transverse," and "vertical" refer to the orientation of the drive device according to the invention. A longitudinal direction corresponds to a direction of forward movement of the drive device, this longitudinal direction being parallel to a longitudinal axis L of a frame of reference L, V, T illustrated in the figures. A transverse direction corresponds to a direction parallel to an axis of rotation of the driven wheel of the drive device when the wheel is straight, this transverse direction being parallel to a transverse axis T of the frame of reference L, V, T, and this transverse axis T being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. Finally, a vertical direction corresponds to a direction parallel to a vertical axis V of the frame of reference L, V, T, this vertical axis V being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L and to the transverse axis T.

[0056] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a motorization device 1 according to the invention, this motorization device 1 being intended to move a wheelchair 2 by lifting it at least partially from the ground. The wheelchair 2 is intended to accommodate a person in a seated position. The wheelchair 2 is moved by its user with the aid of a plurality of wheels, including two front wheels 4 and two rear wheels 6, the terms "front" and "rear" referring to a position of the user in the seat of the wheelchair 2.

[0057] The drive unit 1 is also equipped with wheels. It includes a motorized wheel 8, located at the front of the drive unit 1, and two casters 10 at the rear of the drive unit 1. The motorized wheel 8 and The wheels 10 are arranged relative to each other to form an isosceles triangle or an equilateral triangle within the drive unit 1, although this is not a limitation of the invention. When traveling in a straight line, the axes of rotation of the drive wheel 8 and the wheels 10 are parallel.

[0058] The drive device 1 includes a steering member 12 equipped with a handlebar or steering wheel, which allows its user to orient the motorized wheel 8 and thus to steer the drive device 1. The steering member 12 is supported by a platform 14 to which at least the casters 10 are also attached. The platform 14 extends mainly in a longitudinal-transverse plane, that is to say a plane substantially parallel to the ground on which the drive device 1 rests.

[0059] The platform 14 extends, along a longitudinal direction L or the direction of advancement of the drive device 1, between a first end 16 and a second end 18. The casters 10 are located at the first end 16 of the platform 14, which therefore corresponds to a rear end, while the drive wheel 8 is located at the second end 18, which then corresponds to a front end. Furthermore, the platform 14 is delimited along the transverse direction T by a first edge 20 and by a second edge 22.

[0060] As mentioned previously, the drive unit 1 is configured to support at least part of the wheelchair 2; more specifically, the drive unit 1 is configured to support the front wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2 on its platform 14. For this purpose, the drive unit 1 includes at least one fastening means 24 for a front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2. The fastening means 24 is arranged within the drive unit 1 so as to be opposite the powered wheel 8 in the longitudinal direction L; in other words, the fastening means 24 is arranged at the first end 16 of the drive unit 1. In the figures, the drive unit 1 is shown with a separate fastening means 24 for each of the front wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2, with a first fastening means 24 for the first front wheel 4 and a second fastening means 24 for the second front wheel 4.However, alternative embodiments could be envisaged in which the motorization device 1 would have a unique fixing means 24 suitable for receiving the two front wheels 4, which would then extend mainly in the transverse direction T between the first edge 20 and the second edge 22.

[0061] The fastening means 24 will now be described, particularly with regard to Figures 2 to 6 where it is clearly visible. The fastening means 24 consists of a first jaw 26, or rear jaw, and a second jaw 28, or front jaw. The jaws 26 and 28 are arranged opposite each other along the longitudinal direction L, the first jaw 26 being closer to the first end 16 of the drive device 1 than the second jaw 28. Each jaw 26, 28 has a connecting end 30, which corresponds to its end closest to the other jaw 26, 28, and a free end 32 which is at a distance from this other jaw 26, 28. It is understood that the connecting ends 30 and the free ends 32 delimit the jaws 26, 28 along the longitudinal direction L. Within a given jaw 26, 28, the connecting end 30 and the free end 32 are connected to each other by an inner face 34 and by an outer face 36. The outer face 36 faces the ground while the inner face 34 faces away from it, the inner face 34 also being the face intended to be in contact with the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2.

[0062] The extension dimensions of the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28, that is to say their dimensions measured between their connecting end 30 and their free end 32, may depending on the case be equal or different, the extension dimension of the first jaw 26 then being greater than the extension dimension of the second jaw 28.

[0063] As is particularly visible in [Fig.2], the platform 14 has a housing 38 dimensioned to receive the second jaw 28. In contrast, the first jaw 26 extends cantilevered from the platform 14 and therefore overhangs a void.

[0064] The jaws 26, 28 are configured on the one hand to facilitate the mounting of the front wheels 4 of the wheelchair 2 onto the platform 14, and on the other hand to hold these front wheels 4 in position during movement of the wheelchair 2 using the drive device 1. For this purpose, the jaws 26, 28 are pivotally mounted within the drive device 1. More specifically, the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28 have parallel axes of rotation, which extend mainly along the transverse direction T. Due to their pivoting, the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28 are able to alternate between a receiving or open position, in which the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 can mount into the fastening means 24, and a holding or closed position in which the front wheel 4 is immobilized within the fastening means 24.

[0065] The receiving position of the jaws 26, 28 of the fixing means 24 is illustrated in particular in figures 2 and 5, while their holding position is shown in figures 3 and 4.

[0066] The angular separation between the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28, which is measured between the inner face 34 of the first jaw 26 and the inner face 34 of the second jaw 28, differs depending on the position in which the jaws 26, 28 are located. Thus, in the receiving position, the jaws 26, 28 have a first angular separation 1a, while in their holding position they present a second angular separation a2 which is smaller than the first angular separation al. The angular separation is expressed in absolute value.

[0067] The first angular separation al is for example on the order of 180°, that is to say between 160° and 200°. When the jaws 26, 28 have the first angular separation al, that is to say when they are in their reception position, the jaws 26, 28 are substantially flat and the free end 32 of the first jaw 26 forms the rearmost part of the motorization device 1.

[0068] In particular, a standard reception position of the jaws 26, 28 can be distinguished in which the jaws are substantially flat, parallel to the ground on which the motorization device travels, and an extreme configuration of this reception position, in which the free end 32 of the first jaw 26 is brought into contact with the ground, in particular to form a ramp for the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2.

[0069] It is understood that in this extreme configuration of the reception position, which corresponds to a ramp position of the first jaw 26, the jaws have a first angular separation al greater than 180° between them. In other words, in this ramp position, in order to ensure contact with the ground, the first jaw 26 is no longer substantially flat and, as mentioned, its free end 32 is oriented towards the ground. Consequently, the first jaw 26 acts as a lever and the first end 16 of the drive device 1 is raised away from the ground. This notably creates a distance between the rollers 10 and the ground, which reinforces the stability of the drive device 1.

[0070] The ramp effect of the first jaw is particularly facilitated when the first jaw 26 has a larger extension dimension than the second jaw 28.

[0071] In order to facilitate the mounting of the front wheel 4 onto the fastening means 24, regardless of the configuration of the jaw reception position, the free end 32 of the first jaw 26 has a beveled shape.

[0072] In the standard docking position, the jaws, and in particular the first jaw 26, may be provided with an outer face 36 in contact with, or as close as possible to, the ground, so that the bevel can serve as a ramp for the wheelchair even without requiring an extreme configuration. It should be noted that, particularly in this context and although not illustrated here, the first jaw 26 may be equipped with a pad on its outer face 36, thus improving the grip of the drive unit 1 on the ground.

[0073] It follows from the above that, in order to allow the front wheel 4 to be mounted on the drive device, it is ensured that a portion of the first jaw 26 rests on the ground, this portion being its outer face 36 when the jaws 26, 28 are in their standard home position or only its free end 32 when the jaws 26, 28 are in their ramp position.

[0074] The second angular gap a2 is, for example, less than 90°. The jaws then have a "V" shape. Generally, this second angular gap a2 depends on the diameter of the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 intended to be received between the jaws 26, 28; the larger the diameter of the front wheel 4, the greater the second angular gap a2 will be.

[0075] The pivoting of the first jaw 26 and the pivoting of the second jaw 28 can be synchronized, that is to say they pivot in a coordinated manner. The pivoting of the jaws 26, 28 is ensured by means of a drive means 40, which will now be described in relation to Figures 2, 3 and 5.

[0076] In these figures, the motorization device 1 comprises a drive means 40 for each fastening means 24, namely a first drive means 40 for the first fastening means 24 and a second drive means 40 for the second fastening means 24. However, without departing from the scope of the invention, embodiments could be considered in which the motorization device 1 would comprise a single drive means 40 for both the first and second fastening means 24.In this case, the two fastening means 24 could be connected to each other by a crossbar 42 joining the first jaw 26 of the first fastening means 24 to the first jaw 26 of the second fastening means 24, so as to facilitate the synchronization of the two fastening means 24. Such a crossbar 42 is shown in [Fig. 2] for illustrative and informative purposes, but it is understood that it is not necessary when there are two separate drive means 40. Furthermore, in embodiments where the drive device 1 comprises a single fastening means 24, it includes either a single drive means 40 or two drive means 40, each located at one of the edges 20, 22 of the drive device 1 to reduce mechanical stress.

[0077] In the embodiment shown here, the drive means 40 allows only one of the jaws 26, 28 to be rotated directly, the other of these jaws 26, 28 being driven by the jaw 26, 28 driven by the drive means 40. The drive means 40 is arranged on the platform 14, along one of the edges 20, 22 of the motorization device 1. More precisely, in the transverse direction T the drive means 40 extends at least partially between one of these edges 20, 22 and the housing 38 receiving the second jaw 28.

[0078] The drive means 40 includes a motor 44 which provides mechanical energy to move a movable rod 46 in translation of the means drive 40. Alternatively to the motor 44, the rod 46 could be driven by any other type of actuator. As is particularly visible in Figures 2 and 3, the motor 44 is housed within a first cylinder which extends along a second cylinder housing the rod 46, primarily in the longitudinal direction L. The assembly formed by the motor 44, the rod 46 and their associated cylinders is connected to the platform 14 at a first axis of rotation 48 of the drive means 40 opposite the second end 18 of the drive device 1.

[0079] Under the mechanical impulse of the motor 44, the rod 46 undergoes a translation at least along the longitudinal direction L. It is understood that, due to the first point of rotation 48 connecting the rod 46 to the platform 14, the translation of the rod 46 occurs either parallel to the longitudinal-transverse plane or intersecting this plane. Furthermore, due to this first axis of rotation 48, the assembly formed by the motor 44, the rod 46, and their associated cylinders can pivot so as not to obstruct the movement of the rod 46 at its free end.

[0080] Opposite the first axis of rotation 48, the rod 46 is connected to a connecting rod 52 of the drive means 40 by a pin, which helps to form a second axis of rotation 50, in the axis of this pin. The rod 46 is connected to the fastening means 24 at the second axis of rotation 50 opposite the first end 16 of the drive device 1. The connecting rod 52 forms a link between the rod 46 and the fastening means 24. Specifically, the connecting rod 52 forms a link between the rod 46 and the first jaw 26, since, as mentioned above, the drive means 40 directly drives only one of the two jaws 26, 28. The connecting rod 52 is here fixed to the first jaw 26 on a lateral edge 58 thereof, advantageously near the connecting end 30. Thus, the translation of the rod 46 causes, via the pin and the connecting rod 52, the rotation of the first jaw 26.

[0081] As shown in [Fig.5], the connecting rod 52 is connected to the lateral edge 58 of the first jaw 26. The connecting rod 52 is for example made of the same material as the lateral edge 58, that is to say they form a single unit.

[0082] The first jaw 26 is pivotally mounted relative to the platform 14 about a first pivot axis 56 of the drive means 40, which extends along the connecting end 30 of the first jaw, primarily in the transverse direction T. The first pivot axis 56 extends between two lateral edges 58 of the first jaw 26, which are substantially perpendicular to the first pivot axis 56. Each of the lateral edges 58 has a non-visible opening through which the first pivot axis 56 passes. The first pivot axis 56 is retained within the first jaw 26 by means of retaining washers 62, which are arranged in grooves formed in the first axis of pivoting 56 in relation to the external walls of the lateral edges 58. These fixing washers 62 allow to block an axial translation of the first jaw 26 in the transverse direction T while allowing its rotation around the first pivoting axis 56.

[0083] The first pivot axis 56 is supported by the platform 14; more precisely, the first pivot axis 56 rotates in a bearing provided in the platform 14. The first jaw 26 and the first pivot axis 56 are rotationally fixed, so that, when the connecting rod 52 is actuated, it drives the first jaw 26 which drives the first pivot axis 56 in rotation.

[0084] Similarly, the second jaw 28 is traversed, between its lateral edges 58 and along its connecting end 30, by a second pivot axis 64 of the drive means 40 which rotates in a bearing provided in the platform 14.

[0085] To ensure the synchronized pivoting of the jaws 26, 28, the drive means 40 includes a gear system 66 that links the pivoting of the second jaw 28 to that of the first jaw 26. The gear system 66 is thus interposed between the two jaws 26, 28. More specifically, the gear system 66 comprises at least one first gear 68 disposed around and fixed to the first pivot axis 56, and at least one second gear 70 disposed around and fixed to the second pivot axis 64, the first gear 68 meshing with the second gear 70. As illustrated in [Fig. 5], the gear system 66 may comprise a pair of first gears 68 and a pair of second gears 70, each of these pairs being disposed near one of the lateral edges 58 of the jaws 26, 28.

[0086] Thus, in order for the jaws 26, 28 to move from their receiving position to their holding position or vice versa, the motor 44 is actuated and it drives the rod 46 in translation. In order for the jaws 26, 28 to move from the receiving position to the holding position, the rod 46 is retracted. Conversely, in order for the jaws 26, 28 to move from the holding position to the receiving position, the rod 46 is extended. By moving in translation, the rod 46 causes, via the connecting rod 52, the rotation of the first jaw 26 around the first pivot axis 56, the connecting rod 52 which is fixed to the first jaw 26 moving around the first pivot axis 56. This implies a non-linear displacement of the point of junction between the connecting rod and the rod 46, which is permitted by the first and second axes of rotation 48, 50.

[0087] Since the gears 68, 70 are in direct mesh, the angular displacement in one direction of the first jaw 26 results in an angular displacement in the opposite direction of the second jaw 28, either so as to move the jaws 26, 28 apart from each other or so as to move them closer together.

[0088] By means of the gear system 66, the first jaw 26 in turn drives the second jaw 28. Indeed, when the first jaw 26 rotates, the first pivot axis 56 and the first gear 68 it carries pivot. Since the first gear 68 is meshed with the second gear 70, this causes the second pivot axis 64, and therefore the second jaw 28, to pivot.

[0089] The change in the angular distance between the two jaws 26, 28 is initiated by a control system, which, depending on the case, can be automatic, operated by the wheelchair user 2, or a combination of these two possibilities. For a user-operated control system, this is, for example, controlled by means of a control panel located on the steering mechanism 12 of the wheelchair 2. In an automatic control system, the control system incorporates means for detecting the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2. These detection means use sensors, for example, infrared emitters, to control the movement of the jaws 26, 28 from their initial position to their holding position or, conversely, from their holding position to their initial position. The detection means are, in particular, integrated into the platform 14.

[0090] In a resting configuration, i.e., without power supply, the jaws 26, 28 remain in their last position. The detection means thus facilitate the transition from one position to the other when necessary.

[0091] By way of example, to move the jaws 26, 28 from the receiving position to the holding position, the detection means can scan a receiving area for the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2, such a receiving area corresponding to a volume extending over the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28. This ensures that the front wheel 4 is correctly positioned on the fastening means 24 before the jaws 26, 28 close to secure it. When the jaws 26, 28 reach their holding position, their rotation can be automatically stopped when the detection means detect that the front wheel 4 is abutting both the first jaw 26 and the second jaw 28.

[0092] Alternatively or in addition to what has been described above in relation to the jaws 26, 28 moving from their reception position to their holding position, the detection means can also be used to move the jaws 26, 28 from the holding position to the reception position, or even to their ramp position, when the wheelchair 2 is approached the drive unit 1. For this purpose, the detection means can scan a receiving area which is a volume extending opposite the first end 16 of the drive unit 1, in other words, a receiving area located behind the drive unit 1. It is understood that in this case, the opening of the jaws 26, 28 is controlled when the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 is brought close to the motorization device 1, in particular when it is placed opposite the fixing means 24.

[0093] A structure of the jaws 26, 28 will now be detailed with respect to Figures 4 to 6. As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 5], which is an exploded view, here each jaw 26, 28 is formed of a rigid main body 72 on which rests a flexible coating 74. The rigid main body 72 is for example made of steel while the flexible coating 74 is made of an elastomeric material. According to the embodiments, either both jaws 26, 28 have the flexible coating 74, as is the case in the figures, or only one of the jaws 26, 28 has the flexible coating 74, for example the first jaw 26. Similarly, the flexible coating 74 can extend from the connecting end 30 of the jaw 26, 28 to its free end 32, that is to say over its entire extension dimension, or extend over only a part of the jaw 26, 28.The flexible coating 74 also extends from one lateral edge 58 to the other.

[0094] The rigid main body 72 contributes to forming the outer face 36 of a given jaw 26, 28, while the flexible coating 74 contributes to forming its inner face 34. The rigid main body 72 includes, in particular, the lateral edges 58 of the jaw 26, 28. The rigid main body 72 also includes a raised edge 76, which connects the two lateral edges 58 and extends substantially perpendicularly to them, as well as a base 78 which extends between these different edges 58, 76. Together, the lateral edges 58, the raised edge 76, and the base 78 of the rigid main body 72 form a receiving volume for the flexible coating 74.

[0095] Here, the flexible cover 74 extends over the entire extension dimension of the jaw 26, 28. At the connecting end 30, the flexible cover 74 has a hook-shaped portion 80 designed to cover, depending on whether it is the first jaw 26 or the second jaw 28, respectively the first pivot axis 56 or the second pivot axis 64. At the free end 32 of the first jaw 26, the flexible cover 74 forms a chamfer 82 which is particularly visible in [Fig. 4]. This chamfer 82 contributes to forming the beveled shape of the first jaw 26 which facilitates the mounting of the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 4 onto the fastening means 24.

[0096] The flexible cover 74 is attached to the rigid main body 72 by means of the arc-shaped portion 80, which is clipped around the pivot axis 56, 58. The flexible cover 74 is also attached to the base 78 of the rigid main body 72. To this end, the flexible cover 74 has lugs 84 on a face intended to be positioned opposite and in contact with the base 78. These lugs 84 are complementary to holes 86 provided in the base 78 of the rigid main body 72, the lugs 84 being, for example, press-fitted into the holes 86 to make The rigid main body 72 and the flexible covering 74 are joined together. The joining between the rigid main body 72 and the flexible covering 74 can be achieved alternatively or additionally by means of gluing.

[0097] As can be seen in particular in figures 4 and 6, the flexible covering 74 includes, on its face opposite to its face which is attached to the bottom 78, lateral retention means 88. These lateral retention means 88 ensure optimal support of the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 both at the level of its tread and its sides. The lateral restraint means 88 prevent lateral displacement of the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 when it is on the fastening means 24. To achieve this, the lateral restraint means 88 include depressions 90 that form receiving notches for the front wheel 4. The depressions 90 extend, for example, from the connecting end 30 to the free end 32 of the jaw 26, 28. In addition to the depressions 90, the lateral restraint means 88 include peaks 92 that form projections relative to the depressions 90.The peaks 92 are thus vertical projections which extend from the bottom 78 of the rigid main body 72. The depressions 90 and the peaks 92 are arranged alternately along the transverse direction T, so that a given depression 90 is delimited by two peaks 92. This forms grooves into which the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 slides, the soft covering 74 allowing the shape of the peaks 92 to be adapted to the dimensions of this front wheel 4.

[0098] In [Fig. 4], the peaks 92 of the lateral restraint means 88 take the form of elongated ridges extending from the connecting end 30 to the free end 32 of the jaw 26, 28. In this embodiment, the peaks 92 are extended by projections that extend substantially along the base 78. These projections facilitate the insertion of the front wheel 4 of the wheelchair 2 prior to its retention within the lateral restraint means 88. The projections thus act as guide means for the front wheel 4, defining, from the free end 32, the grooves into which the front wheel 4 slides.

[0099] Alternatively, in [Fig.6] the peaks 92 of the lateral retaining means 88 take the form of pins which are aligned in rows extending from the connecting end 30 to the free end 32 as well as from one to the other of the lateral edges 58 of the jaw 26, 28. Alternatively, the peaks 92 of the retaining means 88 may take the form of cones or wavy ridges without this list being limiting of the invention.

[0100] The present invention thus proposes a motorization device for a wheelchair that offers a solution for fixing the front wheel of this wheelchair in a particularly efficient, simple to implement and secure manner, both by the direction of pivoting of the fixing jaws and by the synchronization of their respective pivots or even their shapes. The present invention is not limited, however, to the means and configurations described and illustrated herein, and it also extends to any equivalent means and configuration as well as to any technically operative combination of such means.

Claims

Demands

1. A motorization device (1) intended to support at least part of a wheelchair (2), the motorization device (1) comprising at least one platform (14), one motorized wheel (8) and at least one means for securing (24) a wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), the means for securing (24) comprising a first jaw (26) and a second jaw (28) configured to pivot respectively between a first receiving position in which the jaws (26, 28) have a first angular separation (al1) and a second holding position, capable of retaining the wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2), in which the jaws (26, 28) have a second angular separation (a2) less than the first angular separation (al1).

2. A motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the jaws (26, 28) are configured to pivot in a synchronized manner.

3. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the jaws (26, 28) have parallel axes of rotation.

4. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a drive means (40) for at least the first jaw (26) of the fastening means (24).

5. A motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the drive means (40) comprises at least one translationally movable rod (46) and a connecting rod (52) driven by the rod (46), the connecting rod (52) being connected to the first jaw (26).

6. Motorization device (1) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein the drive means (40) comprises a gear system (66) disposed between the first jaw (26) and the second jaw (28).

7. A motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the jaws (26, 28) comprises a rigid main body (72) and a flexible coating (74).

8. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the soft cover (74) has lateral restraint means (88) for the wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2).

9. A motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the lateral restraint means (88) form peaks (92) and depressions (90) within the flexible coating (74).

10. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising means for detecting the wheel of the wheelchair (2).

11. Motorization device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first jaw (26) corresponds to a rear jaw and the second jaw (28) corresponds to a front jaw, the front jaw being closer to the motorized wheel (8) than the rear jaw.

12. Motorization device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein, in the jaw reception position (26, 28), the rear jaw forms a ramp for the wheel (4) of the wheelchair (2).

13. Motorization device (1) according to any one of claims 11 and 12, wherein the rear jaw is equipped, on an external face (36), with a skid.

14. A drive device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening means (24) is unique and extends principally perpendicular to a direction of advancement of the drive device (1).

15. A motorization device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a first fixing means (24) and a second fixing means (24) disposed on either side of a plane of symmetry of the motorization device (1) extending substantially parallel to a direction of advancement of the motorization device (1).

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