Patent ID: 8113305
Filing Date: 2012-02-14
Classification: A61G

Abstract:
1. A powered patient transport vehicle having an improved motion control, comprising: a frame extending between a first end and a second end; a first and a second caster wheel located in proximity to said first end of said frame; a first and a second drive wheel located in proximity to said second end of said frame; a motor for driving said first and second drive wheels through a differential gearbox; an electronic control having a control lever for controlling the speed, direction and braking of said motor; a seat mounted to said frame for transporting an occupant; an upstanding member extending between an upper end and a lower end; a steering bar secured to said upper end of said upstanding member; said control lever located on said steering bar for controlling the speed, direction and braking of the powered patient transport vehicle; a coupling comprising an upper coupling portion defined on said lower end of said upstanding member and a lower coupling portion secured to said frame; and said upper coupling portion being removably engageable with said lower coupling portion for securing said steering bar to said powered patient transport vehicle for steering the powered patient transport vehicle; wherein one of said lower and upper coupling portions comprises a keyed aperture whereas the other of the lower and upper coupling portions comprises a key for insertion into said keyed aperture for connecting said steering bar to the powered patient transport vehicle.