Patent ID: 6883632
Filing Date: 2005-04-26
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
1. A wheelchair drive device comprising: a frame configured to be mounted to a wheelchair; a controller mounted to the frame; an input device mounted on the frame in a position such that a continuous physical motion may be applied thereto, the input device being in electrical communication with the controller; an electric motor configured to be driven by the controller; a wheel rotatably held by a portion of the frame at a central axis of the wheel and being pivotable about an axis which is normal to the central axis of the wheel; and a transmission in mechanical communication with the motor and the wheel such that the wheel is driveable by the motor; wherein the controller is configured to receive an input signal from the input device only when the continuous motion is applied to the input device, and wherein the controller is configured to provide power to the motor only when the input signal is received.