Device and related method for lifting a user into a swimming pool

Abstract

A lifting device is provided for lifting a user above the water surface. The lifting device comprises a platform configured to receive a wheelchair. The device is reconfigurable between an ascending access configuration in which the platform is in an ascending position and a descending access configuration in which the platform is in a descending position. The platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration, and the device is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation throughout the reconfiguration between the ascending access configuration and the descending access configuration. The device is also configured to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100 cm between the ascending access position and the descending access position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a lift device and method for use in raising or lowering an object; in particular, but not limited to, a lift device having a platform for raising or lowering a user, optionally a wheelchair user, into or out of, for example, a pool.

Background Art

[0002] Swimming pools are often difficult or impossible to access for users with restricted mobility via conventional access ladders or steps. Thus, users with restricted mobility often refrain from using swimming pools. Access to a swimming pool for users with restricted mobility may be provided by a lift device equipped with a sling or chair used to suspend such a user for movement between the poolside and the pool. Users often require assistance when boarding or alighting from the sling or chair. For example, a user typically requires assistance when moving between a wheelchair or walking cane and the lift device. Lift devices are typically controlled at the poolside by an operator; typically, a staff member or lifeguard.

[0003] When a user is lowered into the water at a seating position on the lift device, the user disembarks from the sling or chair. Typically, the operator then pulls the sling or chair out of the water until the user wishes to exit the pool. If the user wishes to exit the pool, the user signals the operator to lower the sling or chair back into the pool. When the user is secured to the sling, the operator pulls the sling out of the water and moves the user to the poolside, where the operator typically assists the user in moving out of the sling.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] One or more aspects, examples, embodiments, or claims of this disclosure may be intended to mitigate or improve at least one or more problems relating to the prior art as described herein or elsewhere. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to one embodiment, a lifting device is provided. The lifting device may be for lifting a user and / or a wheelchair and / or lowering a wheelchair. The device may be for lifting a user in a body of water. The lifting device may include a platform for supporting the user and / or wheelchair during use. The device may be configured to move the platform between a body of water and an out-of-water position.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for raising a user above a body of water. The method may include the step of the user accessing a platform of a lift device at one of a lowering or ascending access position. The method may include the step of maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation. The method may also include the step of reconfiguring the device to the other of the lowering or ascending access positions.

[0007] The ascending access position may include a dry access position. The descending access position may include a wet access position. The wet access position may include a submerged position of the platform. The lifting device may be configured to submerge the platform in water, at least in the descending access position. The device may be configured to transition the platform between a submerged state in water in a wet access configuration and an out-of-water state in a dry access configuration. In at least some examples, in an ascending access configuration, the platform may be at least partially submerged in water. For example, in an ascending access configuration, the underside of the platform may be submerged in water, and the ascending access configuration has a platform positioned at least partially above or above the body of water.

[0008] The body of water may have a fixed depth, for example, during or through the lift. The fixed water depth may be at the location of the lift device. The body of water may include a swimming pool or similar pool. In other examples, the body of water may include a water depth that changes over time. For example, the volume of water may change over time, and / or the position of an element that at least partially defines the depth may change over time. For example, the body of water may include a swimming pool with a height-adjustable base or bottom.

[0009] The device can be configured to submerge at least the user's waist, and optionally the torso, in the water. The wet access configuration may include the user's underwater position. The device may be configured to adapt to the height difference between the dry access configuration and the wet access configuration. The height difference may include the vertical travel distance between the respective ascending and descending access positions of the platform. The height difference may reflect and / or at least partially depend on the height between the poolside (or similar) and the water body (such as the water surface height). The height difference may be configured to correspond, for example, to the vertical gap between the poolside and the water surface. For example, the device may be configured to accommodate a total height difference of 80 cm for use at a poolside where the water surface is at the same height as the poolside (e.g., the water level is determined by a surrounding trench); the same device may also be reconfigurable to accommodate a total height difference of 100 cm where the water surface is below the poolside (e.g., the water level is determined by a pool skimmer, for example, 20 cm lower than the height of the poolside). The elevation difference may include, or correspond to, a separation or gap between the water surface level and the support or base for the device, such as the poolside. The elevation difference may include a portion corresponding to the gap and a portion underwater. For example, a vertical elevation difference (e.g., 100 cm or more) traversed by a platform between an ascending access position and a descending access position may consist of a gap portion (e.g., about 20 cm) and an underwater portion passing through the water below the gap (e.g., about 80 cm or more). The elevation difference may include at least a minimum elevation difference. The elevation difference may include at least 80 cm. In at least some examples, the elevation difference may include at least 90 cm; at least 1 m; at least 110 cm; at least 120 cm; at least 140 cm; at least 150 cm. Providing a minimum elevation difference can help ensure that the device can lower (and / or raise) the user into the water even if a gap or height drop exists between the poolside and the water surface. The elevation difference may include a maximum elevation difference. This device may be configured to depend on the difference in elevation, such as the minimum elevation difference.The apparatus arm may have a length and / or rotational path to provide an elevation difference. The elevation difference may include the vertical difference in platform height between an ascending access position and a descending access position. The elevation difference may include the maximum elevation difference of the platform. For example, the ascending access position may represent the highest point of the platform along its path, and the descending access position may represent the lowest point of the platform along its path. The apparatus may be configured, for example, by the arrangement of the arm defining the platform path, to include only a downward vertical component when transitioning from an ascending access position to a descending access position.

[0010] The device may be less than its maximum height. Limiting the device to less than its maximum height may provide safety advantages. For example, maintaining the device's height below its maximum may ensure visibility to pool lifeguards above the device. Additionally or alternatively, minimizing the device's height to less than its maximum height may make it easier to transport, for example, without the need to disassemble or reconfigure it into a reduced-height configuration. The maximum height of the device may be 180 cm or less. In at least some examples, the device may be less than 160 cm, or even less than 150 cm. The maximum height of the device may be defined by the highest point of the arm. The highest point may be in the stowed configuration. Additionally or alternatively, the highest point may be in any configuration, such as the highest point of the arm along the path.

[0011] The device may be configured to limit the horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside. The device may be configured to limit the horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside. By arranging arms to define the path of the platform, it may be ensured that the horizontal separation between the platform and the poolside is limited to below the maximum separation. The maximum separation may be less than 100 cm; optionally less than 80 cm; preferably less than 50 cm. Limiting the horizontal separation may provide physical and / or psychological safety benefits. Limiting the horizontal separation may also limit the maximum horizontal protrusion of the platform over or underwater. The device may be configured to maintain the horizontal protrusion of the platform over or underwater below the maximum protrusion. Limiting the horizontal protrusion may ensure a lower maximum moment exerted by the weight of the (loaded) platform.

[0012] Therefore, in at least some embodiments, a lifting device is provided for raising a user above a body of water, the lifting device comprising a platform configured to receive a wheelchair, the device, The platform is in an upward position, with an upward access configuration; Platform at the descent location, descent access configuration; It is reconfigurable between, The platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration, and the apparatus is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation through reconfiguration between an ascending access configuration and a descending access configuration; The device can be configured to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100 cm between the ascending access position and the descending access position.

[0013] Similarly, according to at least some embodiments, a method is provided for raising a user into a body of water, and the method is The process involves the user accessing the platform of the lifting device in either a descending or ascending access position; maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation; and A step of reconfiguring the device to either a descending access position or an ascending access position; Includes, The method includes the step of moving the platform through a vertical height difference of at least 100 cm between an ascending access point and a descending access point.

[0014] The device may be configured to change or adjust the height difference. For example, the device may be configured to provide a height difference of 100 cm or more. The device may be configured to lower the user from a dry access position into the water so that the user is substantially submerged, for example, at least the user's waist and optionally the torso are submerged. The device may be configured to transition the platform between a wet access position and a dry access position. The device may be configured to keep the user's head above water even in a lowering configuration such as a wet access position. Alternatively, in at least some embodiments, the device may be configured to lower the user into the water so that the user is completely submerged, for example, so that the lowering configuration provides sufficient water depth above the platform and the user is able to stand completely upright with their head at least partially submerged. A completely upright position may be a standing position. A completely upright position may relate to a user whose head is at the maximum height above the platform. Alternatively, being completely submerged may refer to a user being seated or in another inclined or reclined position, such as being in a wheelchair. Lower access positions may depend on the specific user and, optionally, their physical posture (e.g., seated or standing). The device may be configured to adjust the lower access position. For example, the device may be configured to program or otherwise control the path or movement of the lift arm to limit the platform to a specific threshold at a lower position. The device may be controllable in use and may allow the platform to be positioned to suit individual users on / of the platform. The operation of the device, e.g., the platform, may be controllable by the user, e.g., from the platform. Additionally or alternatively, the device may be controllable by another person, e.g., authorized personnel operating the device (e.g., at / from the poolside).

[0015] The lifting device may be reconfigurable between one or more configurations selected from an ascending configuration, a descending configuration, and a storage configuration. The ascending configuration may be relative to the descending configuration. The descending configuration may include an underwater configuration. The ascending configuration may include a dry access configuration. The descending configuration may include a wet access configuration. The dry access configuration may be for accessing the lifting device from a dry or land area, such as a poolside. The dry access configuration may provide access between the platform and a land area. The wet access configuration may provide access between the platform and water, for example, allowing a user to enter and / or exit the platform into and out of the water.

[0016] A platform can follow a path between an ascent configuration and a descent configuration. The path may be defined by a smooth curve, such as a smooth arc. The path may include an elevation difference, which is the vertical component of the movement of the path between the ascent access position and the descent access position. The path of the platform may be defined by the rotation of the lift arm, determined, for example, by a four-bar linkage mechanism or a related linkage mechanism. The path may be a path between a dry access position and a wet access position. The four-bar linkage mechanism may be defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force. The four-bar linkage mechanism may be defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force over the operating path of the platform. The four-bar linkage mechanism may be defined to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque. The four-bar linkage mechanism may be configured to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque over the operating path of the platform's movement. The four-bar linkage mechanism may include the relative ratio of each "bar" and its associated pivot point to define a substantially flat or constant force or torque over the operating path of the platform's movement. The force or torque applied or required to support or drive each of the aforementioned lift arms may remain substantially the same at each position and in between of the lift arms between the dry access position and the wet access position. The geometric arrangement of the four-bar linkage mechanism may define a force or torque that is substantially flat or constant with respect to the operating path of the platform's movement. The force may be maintained below 50 kN throughout. The force may be maintained below 40 kN throughout. The force may be maintained below 50 kN, optionally below 40 kN, throughout the entire movement along the path between positions. The force may be maintained below 50 kN, optionally below 40 kN, throughout the entire path / movement of the platform between the raised and lowered positions. The force may be maintained above 20 kN throughout. The force may be maintained above 25 kN, optionally above 30 kN, throughout. The force may be maintained between 25 kN and 40 kN throughout. The force may be maintained between 30 kN and 35 kN throughout.The device may be configured to move between the ascent and descent positions with a total travel time of less than one minute. The device may be configured to move between the ascent and descent positions with a total travel time of less than 45 seconds, optionally less than 30 seconds, or optionally less than 20 seconds. The device may be configured to move between the ascent and descent positions with a total travel time of 5 to 30 seconds; optionally 10 to 20 seconds. The device may be configured to move between the ascent and descent positions (e.g., dry access and wet access) in either direction with a similar total travel time. For example, the device may be configured to move from an ascent (dry) access position to a descent (wet) access position with the same or similar travel time as moving from a descent (wet) access position to an ascent (dry) access position.

[0017] The lifting device may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation in one or more configurations. The lifting device may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation in lifting, lowering, and storage configurations. The device may be configured to prevent rotation of the platform relative to the horizontal. The device may be configured to prevent deviation of the platform from the horizontal orientation in any configuration in use. The device may be configured to maintain the platform horizontally without requiring or relying on gravity. For example, the device may be configured to maintain the relative angle of the platform with respect to, for example, the device base and / or the poolside, without relying on gravity. The device may be configured to prevent deviation of the platform from the horizontal by rotation or tilting around the horizontal longitudinal axis and / or horizontal transverse axis of the platform. The device may be configured to prevent the platform from swaying under gravity and / or under load, for example, under asymmetric load.

[0018] The apparatus may include a selective transport system for transporting the apparatus to and / or from the place of use. For example, the transport system may be for transporting the apparatus between two separate poolside locations. Additionally or alternatively, the transport system may be for transporting the apparatus between a poolside place of use and a storage location. The transport system may be selectively operable. The transport system may be selectively operable by selectively raising or lowering the apparatus or at least a part thereof using hydraulic jacks or the like.

[0019] The device may be equipped with one or more wheels, for example, one or more pairs of wheels, for transporting the device. The device may be configured to be transported to, from, or within the poolside by pushing the device. The device base may be equipped with wheels. The device may be equipped with a set of wheels configured to climb over or overcome obstacles such as thresholds or uneven ground. The set of wheels may include wheels of different diameters, such as relatively small wheels and relatively large wheels. Each wheel in the set may be positioned so that its underside is at a different height. For example, the underside of a smaller wheel may be positioned relatively higher than that of a relatively larger wheel. The underside may be the lowest point of the wheel. Thus, a larger wheel may be in contact with the floor or ground at its underside when the set of wheels is rolling on a flat, uniform horizontal surface. The wheels may be integrated into the transport system. The wheels may be selectively deployable, for example by selectively jacking the transport means up and down, and the wheels may be selectively engaged with or disengaged from the ground or floor beneath them.

[0020] The transport system may include a steering system. The system may include steering of wheels or wheelsets. In at least some examples, the steering system may include a pair of steerable wheels or wheelsets. The steering system may be selectively operable and selectively deactivated. The steering system may be manually operable.

[0021] The transport system may include a braking or parking system. In at least some examples, the device may include at least one pair of adjustable wheels or wheelsets. The wheels or wheelsets may be parallel when used for transport. The device wheels or wheelsets may be adjustable to have parallel planes of rotation when used for transport and non-parallel planes of rotation when used for parking. The device may be configured to lock the wheels or wheelsets. The device may include a brake for locking the wheels or wheelsets. The brake may include a manual brake lever or handle. The application of the brake may tilt at least one wheel or wheelset, causing its plane of rotation to shift. The application of the brake may tilt at least one pair of wheels or wheelsets, causing their respective planes of rotation to shift relative to each other. Thus, the wheels or wheelsets may be selectively tilted and provided with a toe angle that prevents rotation of the wheels or wheelsets, the toe angle being a sufficient angle between at least two wheels or wheelsets to prevent rotation of at least one of the wheels or wheelsets.

[0022] This disclosure may represent improvements to the applicant's prior inventions, apparatuses, and methods, such as those disclosed in International Publication No. 2012 / 164290, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Improvements may include enabling a wider range of motion of the platform, such as the ability to access deeper locations within the pool. The apparatus of this disclosure may be configured to provide a greater elevation difference between the dry access position and the wet access position to the platform, such as a greater elevation difference than the applicant's previous lift apparatus, such as those disclosed in International Publication No. 2012 / 164290.

[0023] An advantage of the present disclosure is that the apparatus is configured or can be configured to accommodate a substantial height difference between a dry access position and a wet access position. For example, different swimming pools may have side walls or edges of different heights above the water level. The height of the side walls can vary from zero (or less) in the case of an infinity pool to substantially high, for example, when a groove, skimmer weir, etc., is housed in an opening in the side wall. In at least some examples of the present disclosure, the same apparatus may be configured or reconfigurable to accommodate different height differences for dry and wet access while still providing the same level or depth of immersion of the platform at the wet access position. For example, the same lift apparatus may be configured to position the platform at the same depth, for example, at least 80 cm, in different pools where the height of the side walls above the water level and the poolside access differ. The water level may be defined by the surface level of the pool filled with the volume of water during normal use. In at least some examples, the apparatus may be configured to change or adapt the height difference according to the user. For example, the height difference may be adjustable to accommodate users of different heights. The device may be configured to descend different users to different depths depending on the user. In at least some examples, the device may be reconfigurable by the user. For example, the user may control the elevation difference, in particular by controlling the depth or position of the descent access point.

[0024] In at least some instances, an array of devices is provided, and each device is configured to correspond to different height differences. For example, the first device may be configured to correspond to the height difference for a pool with no gap between the pool side and the water surface; also, the second device may be configured to correspond to the height difference for a pool having a gap between the pool side and the water surface, and the pool side is an additional portion of the height difference above the water surface.

[0025] The device may be configured to provide a substantially vertical movement path when the platform is over and / or in the water area. The device may be configured to provide a substantially vertical movement path of the platform between the ascending access position and the descending access position. The movement path may include a vertical component that is significantly larger than the horizontal movement component. The movement path of the platform may be described by a substantially straight arc, at least when the platform is moving in the water.

[0026] The platform can be configured to receive a wheelchair. By providing such a lift device with a platform configured to receive a wheelchair for lifting a user within the water area, the user can be lifted within the pool, for example, lifted from the pool and transferred to a wheelchair. By providing such a lift device where the platform is substantially horizontal in each configuration, it can help instill confidence in wheelchair users that the use of the platform is safe. The present device may enable a user to transfer independently between a wheelchair and the water area. The platform may be positioned such that it is substantially above the water area during use in the ascending configuration. The platform may be positioned such that it is substantially submerged within the water area during use in the descending configuration. By providing a platform configured to receive a wheelchair and by substantially or completely submerging the platform in the water area, the user may be assisted by the buoyancy of the water area to transfer to / from the wheelchair.

[0027] The platform can be positioned in the storage configuration so as to be substantially adjacent to the water body when in use. Providing a storage configuration in which the platform is positioned substantially adjacent to the water body allows for substantially unobstructed use of the water body, for example, unobstructed swimming adjacent to the lifting device. The device may be configured to position the platform directly adjacent to the water body in the storage configuration; for example, directly adjacent to the transition point of the platform between the poolside and the pool. The device may be configured to position the platform not above / not overlapping with the water body.

[0028] The device may be configured to lift the user out of the water. The device may be configured to lower the user into the water, for example, into the water. The device may be configured to submerge the wheelchair and / or platform at least partially.

[0029] The device may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation during reconfiguration, such as between an upward configuration and a downward configuration. By providing such a lift device in which the platform is substantially horizontal during reconfiguration between an upward configuration and a downward configuration, it becomes possible for the user to be raised or lowered stably in a wheelchair on the platform.

[0030] The apparatus may be configured to move the platform in a similar manner during reconfiguration between the ascending and descending configurations; and / or between the ascending and storage configurations; and / or between the descending and storage configurations. Movement between different configurations may also be possible in a similar manner. Using similar movements for reconfiguration between different configurations can increase the robustness (e.g., strength) of the apparatus; and / or reduce the number and / or complexity of the components required. Reconfiguration between ascending and / or storage and / or descending configurations may be achieved using similar features of the apparatus. For example, the apparatus may have a single set of components (e.g., the same set) for reconfiguration between ascending and / or storage and / or descending configurations.

[0031] The apparatus may be configured to move the platform along a path between an upward configuration and a downward configuration; and / or between an upward configuration and a storage configuration; and / or between a downward configuration and a storage configuration. The path may be substantially continuous. The path may be substantially nonlinear. The path may be arc-shaped, such as part of a circle. The path may be substantially straight. The path may be defined in substantially a single plane. The plane may be substantially perpendicular. The path may be substantially direct between the poolside and the pool, for example, between the poolside and the pool (for example, in a vertical plane perpendicular to the poolside).

[0032] The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during reconfiguration between configurations, for example, between an elevation configuration and a storage configuration. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during reconfiguration between a dry access configuration and a wet access configuration. The apparatus may be configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal configuration during all use-based reconfigurations.

[0033] The apparatus may include a non-suspended lifting device. In contrast to suspended lifts (e.g., slings, cranes, etc.), a non-suspended device can support the entire lifting process without using flexible tension members such as ropes, chains, or wires. The apparatus may include a lift arm for supporting the platform during reconfiguration between each raised and lowered position. The lift arm may be connected to the platform at its side. The lift arm may provide a rigid connection between the platform and the poolside, for example, via a device base on (and optionally to which is fixed) the poolside. The lift arm may provide non-flexible support to the platform. In contrast to suspended supports such as a platform suspended by cables, wires, ropes, etc., the lift arm can provide a rigid and robust support for the platform. The lift arm may include a rigid support member. The lift arm may be connected to the platform via pivots. The lift arm may be connected by at least one pair of pivots. The lift arm may be connected to the platform via at least two pivots, thereby allowing the orientation of the platform to be controlled by and / or during the movement of the lift arm.

[0034] The lift arm may include an elbow that defines a change in the longitudinal orientation of the lift arm. The elbow may have a fixed angle between a first portion of the lift arm and a second portion of the lift arm. The first portion of the lift arm may include a rear arm portion. The second portion of the lift arm may include a front arm portion. The fixed angle of the elbow may include an angle dependent on poolside characteristics, for example, an angle between the pool or poolside wall and a surface adjacent to the pool, such as a flat or horizontal surface or area of ​​land or floor. The elbow angle may be obtuse, and the obtuse angle may exceed 90 degrees to accommodate a 90-degree angle between the poolside and an adjacent surface, for example, a vertical pool wall and a horizontal adjacent floor. The elbow angle may be fixed in all configurations of the lifting device and / or at all positions of the lift arm. The lift arm housing may include an elbow. The lift arm housing may be rigid. The first portion of the lift arm may be connected to the poolside, for example, via a device base. The second portion of the lift arm may be connected to a platform. The elbow may be configured to accommodate characteristics related to the water body. For example, the elbow may be positioned at a specific angle at a specific distance along the lift arm, the specific distance and angle depending on the dimensions of the pool. For example, the lift arm and elbow may be molded so that the elbow is positioned proximal to the poolside (e.g., the edge) when the device is in a lowering configuration. The second portion of the lift arm corresponds to, defines, or at least relates to the position of the platform relative to the poolside, for example, the second portion of the lift arm substantially represents the position of the underwater platform relative to the poolside edge. The length of the second portion of the lift arm may correspond to or define the height difference between the rising platform position and the lowering platform position. The length of the second portion of the lift arm may correspond to or define the depth of the platform at the lowering position.

[0035] The device may be configured to move a platform between components using an articulated system. The articulation may comprise one or more linkage assemblies. The lift arm may include a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly may be contained within the lift arm housing. The linkage assembly may be used with the lift arm housing so that it is inaccessible and optionally not visible during normal use of the device. The linkage assembly may comprise a four-bar linkage mechanism. The linkage assembly may comprise a pair of four-bar linkage mechanisms. The four-bar linkage mechanisms may be linked together. For example, each of the four-bar linkage mechanisms may define a parallelogram arrangement of pivots. Each side of the parallelogram arrangement may be connected. Thus, the operation of each of the two four-bar linkage mechanisms of the linkage assembly may be linked such that the operation defined by each four-bar linkage mechanism depends on or is influenced by the other four-bar linkage mechanism of the linkage assembly. The first part of the lift arm may comprise a first four-bar linkage mechanism. The second part of the lift arm may comprise a second four-bar linkage mechanism. The platform's operation and movement path may be determined by a linkage assembly. The linkage assembly may be housed within a lift arm housing. The lift arm housing may be rigid. The linkage assembly may be at least partially housed within the lift arm housing, for example, by a shell or housing / cover. The lift arm housing may comprise a rigid housing. The elbow may have a fixed angle. The housing may comprise a housing elbow with a fixed angle. The fixed angle may be kept constant throughout the reconfiguration and operation of the lift arm. The housing may comprise multiple housing parts, such as multiple shell parts, that can be assembled together to form the housing.

[0036] The lift arm may include an elbow joint. The elbow joint may define or accommodate at least one pivot. The elbow joint may include or accommodate at least one pair of pivots. For example, the elbow joint may include or accommodate a pair of pivots for a four-bar linkage mechanism of the first lift arm portion. The elbow joint may include a pair of pivots for each of the first and second arm portions of the lift arm.

[0037] The joint system may include a pair of lift arms, each positioned and connected to the opposite side of the platform.

[0038] The apparatus may include a first lift arm. The first lift arm may be connected to a platform base. The first lift arm may include first and second link sections. The first link section may be connected to a base at a first link section base connection. The first link section may be connected to an elbow at a first link elbow connection.

[0039] The linkage assembly may include a platform support member. The lift arm may be connected to the platform support member at a first link arm platform pivot. The second link arm may be connected to the base at a second link arm base pivot. The second link arm may be connected to the platform support member at a second link arm platform pivot. Thus, the first linkage assembly may define at least four pivot points.

[0040] The first and second link arms may be substantially parallel. The first linkage assembly may be configured such that the first and second link arms remain substantially parallel throughout the reconfiguration or movement of the platform. The first and second link arms, platform support members, and elbows may define a four-bar linkage mechanism, with the first and second link arms defining opposing sides of a quadrilateral representing the four-bar linkage mechanism. The four-bar linkage mechanism may comprise four pivots, each with one degree of freedom. The four pivots may define a trapezoid in one or more configurations and / or at least one stage during reconfiguration. The four pivots may define a parallelogram in one or more configurations and / or at least one stage during reconfiguration. The four pivots may define a rectangle in one or more configurations and / or at least one stage during reconfiguration.

[0041] The first linkage assembly may be configured to maintain the platform support in the same orientation with respect to the horizontal throughout the entire reconstruction, for example, defined with respect to the base.

[0042] The distance between the first link arm base pivot and the first link arm elbow pivot (e.g., the length of the first link arm) may be substantially the same as the distance between the second link arm base pivot and the second link arm elbow pivot (e.g., the length of the second link arm).

[0043] The distance between the first link arm platform pivot and the second link arm platform pivot may be substantially the same as the distance between the first link arm base pivot and the second link arm base pivot.

[0044] The platform may be fixed to a platform support pivot. For example, the platform may be rigidly connected to a platform support. The platform support may include the platform. Providing a platform fixed to a platform pivot can help prevent unintended rotation of the platform relative to the horizontal. Providing a platform fixed to a platform pivot can improve the robustness of the device. Providing a platform fixed to a platform pivot can reduce manufacturing complexity and / or cost.

[0045] The device may be configured to raise or lower the platform by rotating a lift arm. The device may be configured to rotate the lift arm by an angle greater than 90 degrees when reconfiguring between an ascending access position and a descending access position. The rotation angle of the lift arm between the ascending access configuration and the descending access configuration may include greater than 110 degrees, optionally greater than 130 degrees. In at least some examples, the device may rotate the lift arm by an angle greater than 150 degrees, up to 160 degrees, or even greater than 160 degrees when rotating between a descending access position and an ascending access position.

[0046] The device may be configured to provide substantially similar vertical heights of platform support members in both the lifting and storage configurations. The device may be configured to position the platform in the storage configuration, where the platform is located substantially behind the foremost base pivot, for example, the first link arm base pivot or the second link arm base pivot.

[0047] The apparatus can be configured to synchronize a first lift arm and a second lift arm. The first and second lift arms may be synchronized, linked, or cooperatively associated so as to prevent the platform from tilting. For example, the first and second connecting arms may be operably associated so that the relative positions of the first and second lift arms correspond substantially throughout the lifting motion.

[0048] The device can be configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the first and second lift arms. For example, the device can be configured to automatically (re)synchronize the first and second lift arms. The device can be configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the first and second lift arms periodically. The device can be configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the first and second lift arms depending on the level or intensity of use. The device may be configured to periodically (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the first and second lift arms at specific or predetermined times and / or during, during, or after a lift operation. For example, the device may be configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the lift arms at least once before, during, or after each lift operation. In at least some examples, the device is configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the lift arms each time a hydraulic piston or cylinder reaches a point in its stroke, such as the start or end point of the hydraulic stroke. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration may include adjusting the position of one or both of the lift arms, for example, adjusting their position in the stroke or travel path to align with other lift arms.

[0049] The method may include a step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms by adjusting the hydraulic fluid. The method may include a step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms by adjusting the hydraulic fluid associated with one or both of one or more lift arms. The method may include a step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms by adjusting at least one of the volume of the hydraulic fluid or the pressure of the hydraulic fluid. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration may include a step of balancing the lift arms. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration may include a step of balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the respective lift arms. The method may include a step of automatically (re)synchronizing or (re)calibrating the apparatus, such as the arms. The method may include a step of automatically balancing the lift arms. The method may include a step of automatically balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the lift arms. Each lift arm may have an associated hydraulic cylinder or piston. The / each cylinder or piston may contain hydraulic fluid to drive the piston in at least one direction, optionally two directions. The apparatus may include a hydraulic fluid supply control system for controlling the position of the lift arms.

[0050] Each lift arm may be associated with its own hydraulic drive unit, for example, its own hydraulic piston / cylinder. Thus, the device may comprise a pair of lift arms, each lift arm operably associated with its own hydraulic cylinder. The device may comprise a hydraulic fluid system. The hydraulic fluid system may comprise a closed hydraulic circuit. The device may comprise a hydraulic fluid reservoir. The hydraulic fluid reservoir may be for supplying hydraulic fluid to the cylinders for driving the lift arms. The hydraulic system may drive the cylinders / pistons bidirectionally. The hydraulic system may drive the cylinders / pistons bidirectionally. The hydraulic system can sequentially drive each lift arm in both directions. The hydraulic system can drive each lift arm in a first direction to reconfigure the platform from an elevated (e.g., dry) access position to a lowered (e.g., wet) access position. The hydraulic system can drive each lift arm in a second direction to reconfigure the platform from a lowered (e.g., wet) access position to an elevated (e.g., dry) access position.

[0051] The hydraulic system may include a stroke alignment balance. The stroke alignment balance may include a balance valve. The balance valve may be triggered when one piston reaches a point in its stroke, either before or after the other piston reaches a corresponding point in its stroke. This point may be an endpoint, for example, the end of the return stroke. The balance valve may be triggered when either of the pistons reaches a point in its stroke. Alternatively, each piston may be associated with a balance valve, and each balance valve is triggered when the associated piston reaches a predetermined point in its stroke. When triggered, the balance valve opens, providing fluid communication from a fluid reservoir to at least one of the pistons. When triggered, the balance valve opens, providing fluid communication between the corresponding sides of each piston. For example, if the first piston reaches the end of its return stroke before the second piston, the balance valve is triggered to release the fluid supply, providing additional hydraulic fluid to the closed side of the second piston, driving the second piston to its closed return endpoint.

[0052] The device may include a drive system. The drive system may be configured to reconfigure the device between an upward configuration and a downward configuration; and / or between an upward configuration and a storage configuration; and / or between a downward configuration and a storage configuration.

[0053] The device may include a hydraulic drive system. The hydraulic system can be configured to supply power to the lift arm. The device may be configured to include a smooth output curve.

[0054] The linkage assembly may be hydraulically actuated. The linkage assembly may be mechanically actuated. The linkage assembly may be electrically actuated. The linkage assembly may be manually actuated; or at least manually actuated. The linkage assembly may be hydraulically actuated during normal use; and may also be mechanically actuated in override mode for emergency or backup use, etc. The linkage assembly may be assisted and / or actuated by gravity. The device may have an override mode. The override mode may be for operating the platform when the primary platform drive fails. The override may include a manually operated override. The override may include a manually driven override drive. The override may include a mechanical override. The override mode can enable the safe operation of the platform when a power source, such as a power supply, fails. The override can enable the operation of the platform when the platform is inoperable by a primary drive, such as a primary hydraulic drive. The override may enable manual operation of the hydraulic drive system.

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

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

[0057] The device may be configured to synchronize the first and second hydraulic systems. The device may be configured to calibrate or recalibrate the first and second hydraulic systems. The device may be configured to align the first and second hydraulic systems at least periodically, and optionally continuously.

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

[0059] The first transmission system may include a transmission element for converting the drive into an angle, such as a bevel gear. The transmission element can transmit the drive to a worm drive member. The first transmission system may include a connecting shaft. The first transmission system may include a pulley. The device may include a motor. The first transmission system may be connected to the first motor.

[0060] The device may include a second linkage assembly. The second linkage assembly may have one or more features similar to those of the first linkage assembly.

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

[0062] The apparatus may be configured to synchronize the operation of the first and second lift arms. The apparatus can be configured to synchronize the drive to the first and second lift arms. The apparatus may be configured to drive the first and second linkage assemblies in a coordinated or cooperative manner. The operation may be synchronized via a drive system, such as a hydraulic drive system. For example, (re)synchronization of hydraulic fluid for balancing the lift arms can ensure that the operation of the first and second lift arms is synchronized.

[0063] Synchronizing the movements of the first and second lift arms helps maintain the platform in a certain orientation, such as a substantially horizontal orientation.

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

[0065] For example, the second linkage assembly may include a second transmission system. The second transmission system may be connected to the first transmission system, for example, at least intermittently or periodically, at least fluidly or hydraulically.

[0066] In at least some examples, the lifting device may include a drive element, such as a chain, belt, or shaft, connecting the first and second transmission systems. The second transmission system may be connected to the first motor. The device may include a second motor connected to the second transmission system. The first and / or second motors may be hydraulically driven. The first and / or second motors may be electrically driven. The first and / or second motors may be fuel-driven using a flammable fuel (e.g., diesel).

[0067] The first platform support may be located on / adjacent to the first side of the platform. The second linkage assembly may include a second platform support. The second platform support may be located on / adjacent to the second side of the platform. The second side of the platform may be substantially opposite to the first side of the platform.

[0068] The device may be configured to maintain the platform in a forward direction during reconfiguration between an upward configuration and a downward configuration; and / or between an upward configuration and a storage configuration; and / or between a downward configuration and a storage configuration. The forward direction may include a direction facing the pool side during reconfiguration between different configurations (e.g., during reconfiguration from an upward configuration to a downward configuration, and / or during reconfiguration from a downward configuration to an upward configuration). The forward direction may include a direction facing the poolside during reconfiguration between different configurations (e.g., during reconfiguration from a downward configuration to an upward configuration). The forward direction may include different directions in different configurations or during different reconfigurations. For example, the forward direction may include a lateral movement direction of the platform (e.g., toward the pool when the platform moves a user into and out of the pool or away from the pool).

[0069] Such devices can help prevent damage and / or accidents: for example, if a user is heading directly towards the platform's intended path (e.g., into the pool), they may be more aware of potential hazards such as obstacles and / or other pool users along the intended path.

[0070] The device may be configured to prevent rotation of the platform relative to the platform support (e.g., rotation around the vertical and / or horizontal axes).

[0071] The device may be configured to position the platform vertically above the water body in an upward configuration. The device may also be configured to position the platform above the water body in a storage configuration.

[0072] The device may include an actuator. The device may also include a single actuator for reconfiguring between each of the different configurations.

[0073] By providing a single actuator, the cost and / or complexity and / or maintenance and / or vulnerability of the device can be reduced.

[0074] The device may be configured to be powered. The device may be powered by commercial power and / or batteries. For example, the device may have a battery to power the lifting operation of the device. The battery may be removable and, optionally, easily accessible. In at least some examples, at least a pair of batteries are provided to enable continuous operation of the device—for example, a removed or spare battery is charged while the device is powered by a second rechargeable battery. The device may be configured to allow manual operation of the device between configurations (for example, via a recovery system in the event of a power outage or failure of the drive system). Manual operation may include, for example, manual operation of the articulation system by hoisting or other manual cranks or linkage assemblies.

[0075] The base may be configured to be retrofitted, such as by being installed on the side of an existing swimming pool. For example, the device may be configured to be attached to the poolside using fasteners such as fixtures with a minimum cross-sectional area (e.g., bolts). Using such fasteners can facilitate installation: for example, to install the base, it may be necessary to drill one or more bolt holes in the poolside, which may be relatively easy compared to installing a more substantial support structure such as a pole (for example, the bolt holes may be drilled through existing tiles, without requiring the removal of tiles and substantial foundation supports). The base may utilize existing fixing points (e.g., bolt holes for other pool equipment such as diving boards, starting blocks, and lane guides). The device may be configured to be started manually. For example, the device may have an on switch. The on switch may be contactless (e.g., by an electromagnetic signal). The device may have a control system for controlling the operation of the device. The device may be configured to be started remotely using an activation member, etc. The device may have an activation sensor for receiving a signal from the activation member. The device may be configured to be started automatically. The device may be configured to be activated by the proximity of an activation member to an activation sensor. For example, the activation member may include an RFID element. The activation member may be configured to be carried by a user. For example, the activation member may include a wristband. The activation member may be configured to be placed in a body of water. For example, the activation member may be substantially water-resistant or waterproof. The device may be configured to be stopped by a signal from the activation member. For example, the device may be configured to be stopped by the withdrawal of the activation member from the vicinity of the activation sensor.

[0076] The device may be configured to lift multiple users simultaneously. For example, the device may be configured to lift at least two users simultaneously. The device may be configured to lift loads exceeding the maximum weight of an adult human (e.g., for evaluation purposes). The device may be configured to lift the weight of at least two adults. The device may be configured to lift loads exceeding 160 kg; at least in some examples, exceeding 200 kg. The device can be configured to lift at least two users and a wheelchair simultaneously. The platform may be sized and sized to accommodate a wheelchair, particularly a wheelchair with a person in it; and a user, particularly a second user next to the wheelchair, simultaneously during the lift. The device may be configured to lift a load of 250 kg. The device may be configured to support unbalanced loads. For example, the device may be configured to support the entire load on one side or half of the platform. The device may be configured to support and lift unbalanced loads while maintaining the platform horizontal, for example, across lift reconfigurations during use.

[0077] In one aspect, a method is provided for using an apparatus according to an aspect, claim, embodiment, or example of the present disclosure.

[0078] The steps of this method can be in any order.

[0079] In one aspect, an apparatus is provided that is configured to perform a method according to an aspect, claim, embodiment, or example of the present disclosure.

[0080] In one embodiment, a controller is provided that is configured to perform a method according to an embodiment, claim, example, or example of the present disclosure.

[0081] In one aspect, a system is provided comprising a controller according to an aspect, claim, embodiment, or example of the present disclosure, or a system configured to perform a method according to an aspect, claim, embodiment, or example of the present disclosure.

[0082] In one embodiment, computer software is provided that, when executed by a processing means, is configured to perform a method according to any embodiment, claim, example, or example of the present disclosure. The computer software may be stored on a computer-readable medium. The computer software may be stored tangibly on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may be non-temporary.

[0083] Any controller described herein may appropriately include a control unit or computing device having one or more electronic processors. Thus, a system may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller, or different functions of a controller may be embodied or hosted within different control units or controllers. As used herein, the terms “controller” or “control unit” will be understood to include both a single control unit or controller and multiple control units or controllers operating collectively to provide any described control functions. A suitable instruction set may be provided to constitute the controller, which, when executed, causes the control unit or computing device to implement the control techniques specified herein. The instruction set may preferably be embedded in the one or more electronic processors. Alternatively, the instruction set may be provided as software stored in one or more memories associated with the controller and running on the computing device. A first controller may be implemented as software running on one or more processors. One or more other controllers may be implemented as software running on one or more processors, optionally on the same one or more processors as the first controller. Other preferred configurations may also be used.

[0084] Within the scope of this disclosure, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and substitutes described in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular their individual features, are expressly intended to be adopted independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, provided that such features do not conflict. The applicant reserves the right to modify any claim originally filed, or to file any new claim accordingly, including the right to modify any claim originally filed to depend on and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim, which was not originally claimed in this manner. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0085] Herein, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, merely as examples. [Figure 1] A first embodiment of a lifting device for use in lifting a user platform in a body of water, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown in an upward configuration. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows the lift device in both an upward and downward configuration. [Figure 3a] Figure 1 shows a side view of the lifting device in the upward configuration. [Figure 3b] Figure 1 shows a side view of the lift device in the intermediate configuration. [Figure 3c] Figure 1 shows a side view of the lift device in the descent configuration. [Figure 4] This graph shows the change in force over time, reflecting the forces along the platform's path. [Figure 5a] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the hydraulic drive system of the lifting device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5b] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the details of the automatic synchronization module of the hydraulic drive system of the lifting device. [Figure 6] This is a detailed schematic side view of the hydraulic drive system showing the override module. [Figure 7a] This is a schematic diagram of the transport system of the device shown in Figure 1, from one viewpoint. [Figure 7b] This is a schematic diagram of the transport system of the device shown in Figure 1, from one viewpoint. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the steering / brake system portion of the device shown. [Figure 9] A portion of the system shown in Figure 8 is presented. [Figure 10] A side view of the section shown in Figure 9 is provided. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0086] This specification describes a lift device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, used to lift a user, optionally a user in a wheelchair (not shown), within a pool 14, as shown in Figure 1. The device 10 comprises a wheelchair platform 16 for receiving the wheelchair, and the device is shown in the raised configuration in Figure 1, and in both the raised and lowered configurations in Figure 2.

[0087] Figure 2 shows platform 16 in both the ascending and descending positions, but it will be understood that two platforms 16 cannot exist simultaneously within a single device 10. Therefore, Figure 2 merely shows the positions of the two platforms 16 to illustrate the reconfigurability of device 10, which will be further explained sequentially in Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c.

[0088] Figure 3 shows three side views of the lift device of Figure 1 in the raised, intermediate, and lowered configurations, respectively, in Figures 3a, 3b, and 3c. It will be understood that the housings have been removed from these figures to illustrate the operation of the lifting arms 26, 28. It will also be understood that the raised position in Figure 3a is achieved by rotating the pair of arms 26, 28 forward, moving the platform 16 horizontally forward from the position in Figure 1 to the raised position in Figure 3a. It will be understood that the raised position in Figure 1 corresponds to the dry access position, allowing the user to enter and exit the platform 16 via an openable gateway 50, which may have one or a pair of hinged gates. Thus, the user can easily and safely access the platform 16 from the poolside 18 from the rear of the device 10, optionally from inside / on a wheelchair, thereby being separated from the pool 14 by the width of the device 10.

[0089] In each configuration shown in Figures 3a to 3c, and during the reconfiguration of the device 10 between the illustrated configurations, the platform 16 is maintained in a substantially horizontal orientation. Similarly, as seen in Figures 1 and 2, the platform 16 can also be maintained horizontally for an elevated access configuration for easy access from the poolside 18. It will be understood that the elevated configuration in Figure 1 can also be used as a storage and transport configuration. By maintaining the platform 16 in a substantially horizontal orientation, users can move stably while on the platform 16, particularly in wheelchairs.

[0090] In the elevated configuration, the platform 16 is positioned adjacent to the pool 14 at the poolside 18, and the platform 16 is located behind the pool wall 20, with no part of the platform 16 extending into the water area 22 within the pool 14. When the platform 16 is in the elevated configuration as shown in Figure 1, users in the pool 14 can use the pool 14 with little obstruction, including the use of the pool wall 20 (and the pool wall edge 21). Thus, when the platform 16 is in the elevated access configuration, the entire water area 22 within the pool 14 can be used without obstruction. In the illustrated embodiment, the water level 22 in the pool 14 is lower than the poolside 18; however, in other embodiments, the water level 22 may be higher or lower than the poolside 18: for example, the poolside 18 may determine the water level 22 in the pool 14, for example, if a surrounding groove is provided.

[0091] The device 10 has a base 24 fixed to the poolside 18. In the lift configuration, the platform 16 is located above the base 24. The footprint of the platform 16 overlaps with the footprint of the base 24. Thus, the total footprint of the device 10 is reduced in the lift configuration, which is determined by the larger of the platform 16 or the base 24. The total footprint is completely adjacent to the poolside 18, and in the lift configuration of Figure 1, no part of the device 10 extends into the water area 22 in the pool 14. The platform 16 is connected to the base 24 via first and second platform supports in the form of lift arms 26, 28. The lift arms 26, 28 are positioned on both sides of the platform 16, and the central portion of the platform 16 between the lift arms 26, 28 is wheelchair accessible. The lift arms 26, 28 are connected to the base 24 via first and second linkage assemblies, respectively.

[0092] The device 10 is shown in the raised configuration in Figure 3a, with the platform 16 positioned above the water body 22. The device 10 can be moved from the raised position in Figure 1 to the raised configuration in Figure 3a in response to instructions from a user (not shown). The user may have an activation member (not shown) containing identification information, such as an RFID-equipped wristband. In some embodiments, the device 10 includes a control system connected to a management system, such as a programmable computer-controlled data management system. Detection of the activation member by the device 10 and authentication verification of the associated user ID enables the device 10 to become operational; and it then deploys from the storage configuration to the raised configuration. In other embodiments, operation may be performed via one or more controls without requiring identification information. The device 10 uses a pump 56 to actuate a hydraulic drive system 55 to power the respective pistons 58, 59. Thus, the platform 16 swings between the raised and lowered configurations through an arc defined by the parallelogram four-bar linkage mechanism of the arms 26, 28. The platform 16 maintains a substantially horizontal position throughout the movement between configurations.

[0093] From the raised configuration shown in Figure 1, the gate 50 is unlocked and automatically opened upon activation of the device 10. The device 10 includes a motor that actively opens the gate 50, which swings to open backward away from the pool 14. With the gate 50 open, the platform 16 is accessible to users such as wheelchair users, allowing users to enter and exit the platform 16. When entering the pool 14, the user moves forward from the poolside 18 onto the platform 16 across a portion of the base 24: the base 24, the platform 16, and the poolside 18 are all at substantially the same height when the device 10 is in the raised configuration.

[0094] The gate sensor detects when gate 50 is completely closed; and when the gate sensor detects that gate 50 is completely closed, the lock is automatically deployed. When the device 10 determines that gate 50 is locked and closed, the device 10 is operable to move to the lowered configuration shown in Figure 3c. The configuration shown in Figure 1 is suitable for users to enter and exit pool 14; it is also suitable for deploying empty wheelchairs into or removing them from pool 14. Although shown without a wheelchair, the device 10 can be used by users with wheelchairs. When a user optionally places their wheelchair firmly on platform 16 in the raised configuration of Figure 1, the device 10 can move to the lowered configuration of Figure 3c.

[0095] Upon instruction from an authorized user, the hydraulic drive system 55 is activated, driving the arms 26, 28 using their respective pistons 58, 59. Thus, the platform 16 swings from an upward configuration to a downward configuration along the arc defined by the arms 26, 28. The device 10 monitors the relative position of the platform 16, and as a result, the drive from the hydraulic drive system 55 is stopped when the platform 16 reaches the intended position. The user can control the device 10 to determine when the hydraulic drive system 55 stops.

[0096] The device 10 is adjustable to define the intended position. For example, the device may be programmed to define a descent configuration depending on specific circumstances of pool 14, such as the limited depth of pool 14. The device can be programmed to define the intended position depending on the user (for example, the descent configuration may define a lower position in the water body 22 for an upright user compared to a seated user).

[0097] During the descent from the ascending configuration in Figure 3a to the descending configuration in Figure 3c, the platform 16 is submerged in the water area 22. The platform 16 is configured to guide the water flow, reducing resistance to the movement of the platform 16 through the water area 22. In the descending configuration in Figure 3c, the user can descend into the water area 22 from the platform, optionally from a wheelchair: the buoyancy provided by the water area 22 helps to support the user.

[0098] The user can exit pool 14 by substantially reversing the process between Figure 3a and Figure 3c: in the configuration of Figure 3c, the user optionally, if necessary, gets into a wheelchair and activates the hydraulic drive system to move platform 16 along an arc-shaped path through the intermediate position in Figure 3b, raising platform 16 to the raised position in Figure 3a; then moving it further to the position in Figure 1. When the platform is in the raised access position, the user can safely descend the platform through gate 50, leaving pool 14 and proceeding directly to the poolside 18.

[0099] Device 10 is configured not to unlock the gate 50 when platform 16 is in the lowering configuration or when it is positioned between the raising and lowering configurations. Thus, a user can only disembark from platform 16 when platform 16 has returned to the raising configuration as shown in Figure 1; thus, it is ensured that the user remains safely on platform 16 during ascent and descent, especially when using a wheelchair. It will be understood that the platform can be returned to the raising configuration as shown in Figure 1 or Figure 3a while a user disembarks from platform 16 and enters the pool from the lowering configuration, and while a user re-enters platform 16 in the lowering configuration and exits pool 14. Thus, when the use of device 10 is not required, the water area 22 is available without obstruction. Similarly, multiple users can use device 10 to enter and exit the pool without waiting their turn (i.e., without waiting for previous users to exit before using device 10 for entry).

[0100] The device 10 is configured to submerge at least the user's waist, and optionally their torso, in the water. The wet access configuration in Figure 3c includes the user's underwater position. The device 10 is configured to accommodate a height difference 19 between the dry access configuration in Figure 1 (platform 16 height similar to that in Figure 3a) and the wet access configuration in Figure 3c. The height difference 19 includes the vertical travel distance between the respective ascending access position and descending access position of the platform 16. The height difference 19 reflects and / or at least partially depends on the height between the poolside (or similar) and the water body (such as the water surface). The height difference 19 is configured to accommodate vertical gaps, such as between the poolside and the water surface. For example, the device 10 is configured to accommodate a total height difference 19 of 80 cm for use poolside when the water level is at the same height as the poolside (e.g., the water level is determined by a surrounding trench); the same device 10 is also reconfigurable to accommodate a total height difference 19 of 100 cm when the water level is lower than the poolside (e.g., 20 cm lower than the height of the poolside, where the water level is determined by a pool skimmer, etc.). The height difference 19 includes or accommodates a separation or gap between the water level and a support or base for the device 10, e.g., the poolside. The height difference 19 includes a gap portion and a submerged portion, where a vertical height difference 19 (e.g., 100 cm or more) traversed by the platform 16 between the ascending access position and the descending access position in Figures 3a (and 1) and 3c constitutes a gap portion (e.g., about 20 cm) and a submerged portion in the water below the gap (e.g., about 80 cm or more). As shown here, the height difference 19 includes at least 100 cm. In other embodiments, the height difference 19 includes at least 110 cm; at least 120 cm; at least 140 cm; at least 150 cm. Providing a minimum height difference 19 helps ensure that the device 10 can lower (and / or raise) the user into the water even if there is a gap or height difference between the poolside 18 and the water surface 22. As shown here, the device 10 has a maximum height of less than 150 cm.Limiting the height of the device 10 to below its maximum height may provide safety advantages, for example, ensuring visibility for lifeguards in the pool above the device 10. Additionally or alternatively, minimizing the height of the device 10 to below its maximum height would make it easier to transport the device 10 without requiring disassembly or reconfiguration into a lower height configuration, while still allowing passage through standard doors of 200 cm or less in height.

[0101] Here, the apparatus 10 is also configured to limit the horizontal separation 23 between the platform 16 and the poolside 18, particularly the pool wall 20. The arrangement of arms 26, 28 for defining the platform's path ensures that the horizontal separation 23 between the platform 16 and the poolside 18 is limited to less than the maximum separation, which is less than 50 cm.

[0102] Figure 4 is a graph showing the change in force over time, reflecting the force along the path of platform 16. As described above, platform 16 follows a path between an ascending configuration and a descending configuration, defined by a smooth arc. The path includes a height difference 19, which is the vertical movement component of the path between the ascending access position and the descending access position of platform 16, as schematically shown in Figure 3c, relative to the vertical height position of platform 16 in Figure 3a. The path of platform 16 is defined by the rotation of the lift arms 26, 28, which is determined by the associated four-bar linkage mechanism. The path is between the dry access position and the wet access position, as shown in Figure 1 (via the path in Figure 3a) and Figure 3c. The four-bar linkage mechanism is defined to provide a substantially flat or constant force along the operating path of platform 16, as shown in Figure 4. The four-bar linkage mechanism, including the relative ratios of each “bar” and its associated pivots, defines a substantially flat or constant force or torque over the operating path of the platform 16's movement. Thus, the force or torque applied or required to support or drive each of the lift arms 26, 28 remains substantially the same for each position of the lift arms 26, 28 between the dry access position and the wet access position, and for intermediate positions between them. As shown here, it will be understood that the portion of the graph shown in Figure 5 corresponding to the operating path of the platform 16 is between the left y-axis 47 (corresponding to the raised position of the platform 16) and the right boundary 47 corresponding to the lowered position at 0 seconds. The portion of the graph to the right of boundary 49 represents the unused portion of the path (longer than necessary or desired, considering the pool wall) and is shown simply as an example of possible undesirable force fluctuations. The force here is maintained at less than approximately 50 kN throughout: in fact, here the force is maintained between 30 kN and 35 kN throughout the entire working life of the lifting device 10. As shown herein, the device 10 is configured to move between an elevated position and a lowered position in less than one minute, with a total travel time of approximately 20 seconds as shown herein.The device 10 is configured to move the platform 16 between an upward position and a downward position (e.g., dry access and wet access) in either direction over a similar total travel time (movement in the reverse direction is effectively a reversal of the graph, reversing the movement of the platform 16 from right to left).

[0103] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the hydraulic drive system of the lifting device of Figure 1, with an overview shown in Figure 5a and a detail of the automatic resynchronization module shown in Figure 5b. The device 10 is configured to synchronize the first and second lift arms 26, 28. The first and second lift arms 26, 28 are synchronized, linked, or cooperatively associated so as to prevent the platform from tilting. For example, here the first and second linking arms 26, 28 are hydraulically connected so that the relative positions of the first and second lift arms 26, 28 correspond substantially throughout the lifting operation. As shown in Figure 5a, in part of the hydraulic drive system 55, the respective pistons / cylinders 57, 59 of each lift arm 26, 28 are supplied synchronously with the hydraulic fluid. Thus, each of the lift arms 26, 28 is driven synchronously, ensuring that each of the lift arms 26, 28 is actuated simultaneously at similar speeds and with similar forces. Therefore, platform 16 is moved without the risk of platform 16 tilting and is equally supported by lift arms 26, 28 on the left and right sides of platform 16, respectively.

[0104] Each lift arm 26, 28 is associated with its respective hydraulic piston / cylinder 57, 59. Thus, the apparatus 10 comprises a pair of lift arms 26, 28, each lift arm operably associated with its respective hydraulic cylinder 57, 59. Here, the apparatus 10 comprises a closed hydraulic fluid system 55 having a hydraulic fluid reservoir 63. The hydraulic fluid reservoir 63 is for supplying hydraulic fluid to the cylinders for driving the lift arms 26, 28. The hydraulic system 55 can drive the cylinders / pistons bidirectionally and is configured to drive each lift arm 26, 28 sequentially in both directions. The hydraulic system 55 can drive each lift arm 26, 28 in a first direction to reconfigure the platform 16 from an elevated (e.g., dry) access position to a lowered (e.g., wet) access position; then drive each lift arm 26, 28 in a second direction to reconfigure the platform 16 from a lowered (e.g., wet) access position to an elevated (e.g., dry) access position.

[0105] The device 10 is configured to synchronize the first and second lift arms 26, 28. The first and second lift arms 26, 28 are synchronized, linked, or cooperatively related so as to prevent the platform from tilting. For example, the first and second link arms 26, 28 are operably related so that the relative positions of the first and second lift arms 26, 28 correspond substantially throughout the entire lift operation. The device 10 is configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the first and second lift arms 26, 28. Here, the device 10 is configured to automatically (re)synchronize the first and second lift arms 26, 28 at least once before, during, or after each lift operation. As shown in Figure 5b, the device 10 is configured to (re)synchronize or (re)calibrate the lift arms 26, 28 whenever one of the hydraulic pistons or cylinders 57, 59 reaches a point in its stroke, such as the endpoint of the illustrated hydraulic stroke. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration involves adjusting the position of one or both of the lift arms 26, 28 in their stroke or travel path to align with the other lift arms 28, 26.

[0106] Therefore, the hydraulic system 55 includes stroke alignment balancing with a balance valve or relief valve 61. The balance valve 61 is triggered when one of the pistons 57, 59 reaches a point in its stroke before or after the other piston 59, 57 reaches a corresponding point in its stroke. Here, the point is the end of the return stroke. The balance valve 61 is triggered when one of the pistons 57, 59 reaches a point in its stroke before the other piston 59, 57 reaches a corresponding point in its stroke. When triggered, the balance valve 61 is opened, providing fluid communication from the fluid reservoir to the other piston 59, 57. Here, if the first piston 57 reaches the end of its return stroke before the second piston 59, the balance valve 61 is triggered to open the fluid supply, providing additional hydraulic fluid to the closing side of the second piston 57, driving the second piston 57 to the closed return end. Therefore, any leakage, even if very slight or over a long period, can be compensated for to ensure that the lift arms 26, 28 remain synchronized and that the platform 16 remains level and does not deform during movement.

[0107] The method of use includes the step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms 26, 28 by adjusting the hydraulic fluid. The method includes the step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms 26, 28 by adjusting the hydraulic fluid associated with one or both of the lift arms. The method includes the step of synchronizing or calibrating the lift arms 26, 28 by adjusting at least one of the volume of the hydraulic fluid or the pressure of the hydraulic fluid. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration includes the step of balancing the lift arms 26, 28. (Re)synchronization or (re)calibration includes the step of automatically balancing the hydraulic fluid associated with each of the respective lift arms 26, 28.

[0108] Figure 6 is a detailed schematic side view of the hydraulic drive system 55 showing the override module 65. The lifting arms 26, 28, along with their linkage assemblies, are hydraulically actuated during normal use; they are also mechanically actuated in override mode for emergency or backup use, etc. Here, the device 10 has an override mode for operating the platform 16 in the event of a failure of the main platform hydraulic drive unit 55, which is a manually operable and manually powered override 65, as shown in Figure 6. The override 65 enables the safe operation of the platform 16 in the event of a power supply failure, for example, a power supply to the pump or components of the hydraulic system 55. Here, the override 65 enables manual operation of the hydraulic drive system 55.

[0109] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the transport system 80 of the apparatus 10 of Figure 1, shown from two viewpoints, Figure 7a and Figure 7b, respectively. The apparatus 10 is equipped with a selective transport system 80, which is for transporting the apparatus 10 to and / or from a place of use, such as between two separate poolside positions, or for transporting the apparatus 10 between a poolside use position and a storage position. The base 24 of the apparatus 10 is equipped with pairs of wheels 92, 94 for transporting the apparatus 10 to, from, or in the poolside by moving the apparatus 10 on wheels. The transport system 80 is selectively operable by selectively raising or lowering the apparatus 10 or at least a portion thereof using an integrated hydraulic jack. As shown in Figures 7a and 7b, the transport system 80 is equipped with a steering system, which may be used to manually steer the wheel sets 92, 94. The steering system is selectively activatable and deactivatable, and is manually operated, allowing the user to rotate the steering wheel 96 horizontally to rotate the rotation plane of the wheelsets 92 and 94, as well as the rudder.

[0110] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the steering / brake system portion 90 of the device 10 of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 8, the transport system 80 includes a brake or parking system 90. Here, the device 10 includes at least one pair of adjustable wheels or wheelsets 92, 94, as shown in Figure 8, which are parallel when used for transport. The wheelsets 92, 94 of the device 10 are adjustable to have parallel planes of rotation when used for transport (e.g., Figure 8); as shown in Figure 9, they have non-parallel planes of rotation for parking. The device 10 is configured to lock the wheelsets 92, 94, and the device 10 effectively includes a brake 90 for locking the wheelsets 92, 94 with a manual brake lever or handle 96. Actuation of the brake 90 by vertical movement or rotation of the handle 96 (as opposed to horizontal movement for steering) causes at least one wheelset 92, 94 to tilt, and its plane of rotation is deflected to provide a toe angle, thereby hindering the rotation of the wheelset 92, 94, the toe angle being a sufficient angle between at least two sets of wheels 92. The wheelset 94 is incorporated into the transport system 80; by selectively jacking the transport system 80 up and down, it is selectively deployable, and the wheelset 92, 94 is selectively joined to or unjoined from the ground or floor below.

[0111] Figure 9 shows a portion of the system 90 of Figure 8; Figure 10 shows a side view of the portion of Figure 9. Each wheelset 92, 94 is configured to climb or overcome obstacles 99 such as thresholds or uneven ground. Wheelset 94 includes wheels of different diameters, here a relatively small wheel 98 and a relatively large wheel 97. Each wheel 97, 98 of set 94 is positioned such that its underside is at a different height, as shown in the side view of Figure 10. Here, the underside of the smaller wheel 98 is positioned relatively higher than the underside of the relatively larger wheel 97. The underside is the lowest point of the wheels 97, 98. Thus, when wheelset 94 is rolling on a flat, uniform horizontal surface, the larger wheel 97 will make contact with the floor or ground at its underside. As shown in Figure 10, when the wheelset 94 encounters an obstacle 99, the lowest point of the smaller wheel 98 makes contact with the obstacle, and the axis of rotation of the wheelset 94 shifts from the axis of rotation of the larger wheel 97 to the axis of rotation of the smaller wheel 98, thereby making it easier for the wheelset 94 to pass over the obstacle 99.

[0112] The embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and should be understood to be subject to various modifications without departing from the scope of the invention. Although this specification describes access to a pool, the lifting device may be suitable for use in other locations, such as accessing a vehicle or an elevated or lowered floor level.

[0113] It will be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Any such software may be stored in the form of a volatile or non-volatile storage device, such as a storage device such as ROM, whether erasable or rewritable, or in the form of memory, such as RAM, memory chips, devices, or integrated circuits, or on an optically or magnetically readable medium, such as a CD, DVD, magnetic disk, or magnetic tape. It will be understood that the storage device and storage medium are embodiments of machine-readable storage suitable for storing one or more programs that, when executed, perform embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, embodiments provide a program comprising code for implementing any aspect, example, claim, or embodiment of the present disclosure, and machine-readable storage for storing such program. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may be transmitted electronically over any medium, such as communication signals transmitted over a wired or wireless connection, and embodiments suitably encompass this.

[0114] All features disclosed herein (including the attached claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all steps of any disclosed method or process, can be combined in any combination, except for any combination in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0115] Each feature disclosed herein (including the attached claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose unless otherwise expressly stated. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, each disclosed feature is merely an example of a general set of equivalent or similar features.

[0116] The present invention is not limited to the details of any embodiment described above. The present invention extends to any novel features or any novel combination of features disclosed herein (including the appended claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel methods or steps of any process so so disclosed. The claims should not be construed as merely covering the embodiments described above, but should also be construed as covering any embodiments that fall within the scope of the claims, including equivalents.

Claims

1. A lifting device for raising a user above a body of water, the lifting device comprising a platform configured to receive a wheelchair, the device, An ascending access configuration in which the platform is in an elevated position; A descent access configuration in which the aforementioned platform is in the descent position; It is reconfigurable between, The platform is supported by at least one arm during reconfiguration, and the apparatus is configured to maintain the platform in a substantially horizontal orientation through reconfiguration between the ascending access configuration and the descending access configuration; The device can be configured to accommodate a vertical height difference of at least 100 cm between the ascending access position and the descending access position. A device characterized by the following features.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the apparatus is a non-suspended lifting device that supports the platform throughout the entire lifting process without using flexible tensioning members such as ropes, chains, or wires.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the platform is positioned to be substantially above the water when in use in the ascending access configuration, and the platform is positioned to be substantially submerged in the water when in use in the descending configuration.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the platform is oriented substantially horizontally at an ascending access position and a descending access position; the apparatus is configured to move the platform along a substantially continuous path between an ascending access position and a descending access position, the path being defined in substantially a single plane, the plane being a vertical plane perpendicular to the horizontal platform.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the apparatus is configured to adapt to a vertical height difference of at least 120 cm, and optionally at least 140 cm, between an ascending access position and a descending access position.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the apparatus is configured to move the platform between an ascending access position and a descending access position through an arc-shaped movement path, the arc comprising a vertical component substantially larger than the horizontal component.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the vertical component is the vertical height difference, and the horizontal component is less than or equal to half of the vertical component.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the apparatus comprises a pair of arms for supporting the platform, each arm positioned on either the left or right side of the platform, and the platform is firmly supported between them; and the apparatus comprises a hydraulic drive system for synchronously driving the pair of arms to move the platform along the path.

9. Each of the pair of arms comprises a four-bar linkage mechanism incorporated into a linkage assembly, each linkage assembly connecting the platform to a base, the base being configured to be fixed to the water body; Each linkage assembly is, Platform support member; A first link arm connected to the base at the first link arm base pivot and connected to the platform support member at the first link arm platform pivot; and A second link arm, connected to the base at the second link arm base pivot and connected to the platform support member at the second link arm platform pivot. Equipped with, The first linkage assembly defines the four pivot points of the four-bar linkage mechanism, The first and second link arms define opposing sides of the rectangle representing the four-bar linkage mechanism. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that

10. The apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the apparatus is configured to automatically recalibrate the pair of arms in order to ensure synchronization.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the apparatus is configured to automatically and periodically balance the hydraulic fluid within the pair of arms, across the arms, or for the arms.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the hydraulic drive system comprises a stroke alignment balance including a balance valve, the balance valve being triggered when one piston reaches a point in its stroke before or after the other piston reaches a corresponding point in its stroke.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the point is an endpoint, the balance valve is triggerable when either piston reaches the endpoint in its stroke before the other piston; the balance valve, when triggered during use, is released to supply additional hydraulic fluid to the other piston, driving the other piston to reach the endpoint in its stroke.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the apparatus includes a maximum height of 150 cm or less.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the apparatus comprises an override mode, the override mode being operable to operate the platform when the primary platform drive fails.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that the override includes a mechanical, manually powered override drive for overriding a hydraulic primary platform drive.

17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the apparatus comprises an integrated transport system for transporting the apparatus to and / or from the poolside, and the transport system is reconfigurable between an operating state and a non-operating state.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, characterized in that the transport system comprises a manually operable steering system and a manually operable brake system.

19. A method for increasing the number of users in a body of water, The process by which the user accesses the platform of the lifting device, either from a lowering access position or an upward access position; A step of maintaining the platform in a horizontal orientation; and A step of reconfiguring the device to the lowered access position or the other of the uppered access position. Includes, The method includes the step of moving the platform through a vertical height difference of at least 100 cm between the ascending access position and the descending access position. A method characterized by the following features.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that it includes the steps of: hydraulically driving a pair of lift arms to move the platform between the raised access position and the lowered access position; and automatically recalibrating the pair of arms to ensure synchronization.

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