Patent Publication Number: US-11389350-B2

Title: Adjustable back support

Description:
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure relates to an adjustable back support for a chair. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a back support for a wheelchair that includes a plurality of separately adjustable support assemblies, which are configured to selectively adjust one or more flexible deformities in the sagittal plane, while also being configured to accommodate one or more fixed deformities in the sagittal plane, to improve support for a user that is sitting in the wheelchair. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one embodiment, an adjustable back support for a mobility device includes a first adjustable back support assembly including a first support member and a second support member, and a second adjustable back support assembly. The first support member is moveably connected to the second adjustable back support assembly, the first support member being configured to pivot relative to the second adjustable back support assembly relative to a first axis of rotation, and the second support member is moveably connected to the first support member, the second support member being configured to pivot relative to the first support member, the second support member being configured to pivot relative to the first support member relative to a second axis of rotation that is not parallel to the first axis of rotation. 
     In another embodiment, a wheelchair includes an adjustable back support including a first adjustable back support assembly defining a first support member and a second support member, and a second adjustable back support assembly. The first support member is configured to pivot relative to the second adjustable back support assembly along a first axis of rotation. The second support member is configured to pivot relative to the first support member along a second axis of rotation that is not parallel to the first axis of rotation. 
     In yet another embodiment, a method of conforming an adjustable back support to a user includes adjusting a first lower back support to selectively engage and rotate a pelvis towards a pelvic neutral position, adjusting a second lower back support to selectively engage a lumbar portion of a spine to support a natural lumbar curve, and adjusting a first upper back support to selectively engage a thoracic region of the spine to support a natural thoracic curve. 
     Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of a wheelchair that includes an example of an embodiment of an adjustable back support, illustrating a user positioned in the wheelchair and supported by the back support. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear perspective view of the wheelchair and adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a rear perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 2 , with a head support and the wheelchair removed for clarity. 
         FIG. 4  is a rear perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 3 , with a pad and a mounting assembly removed for clarity. 
         FIG. 5  is a rear perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 4 , with the user removed. 
         FIG. 6  is a partially exploded enhanced view of a hinge member associated with the first adjustable back support assembly of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 5 , taken along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a front, user facing perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 5 , with the adjustable tension assembly detached from a first side support portion to illustrate a plurality of attachment slots. 
         FIG. 8  is a rear plan view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 9  is a first side view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the adjustable tension assembly and a portion of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 5 , taken along line  10 - 10  of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a rear perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 3 , with the mounting assembly shown detached from the adjustable back support. 
         FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of the adjustable back support shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a rear perspective view of another example of an embodiment of an adjustable back support. 
         FIG. 14  is a flow diagram of an embodiment of a system for selectively adjusting the posture of a user sitting in the wheelchair. 
     
    
    
     Before embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The disclosure is capable of supporting other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     While the present disclosure illustrates an adjustable back support  100  for use with a wheelchair, it should be appreciated that a wheelchair is provided for purposes of illustration and is not limiting. The adjustable back support  100  can be used not only with a wheelchair, but also in association with any suitable sitting platform, mobility device, or a chair, including, but not limited to, an armchair, rocking chair, car seat, swivel chair, office chair, recliner, director&#39;s chair, high chair, sofa, backed stool, or any other suitable device for supporting a person while sitting. 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  provide different views of a mobility device  10 , shown as a wheelchair  10 , that incorporates an example of an embodiment the adjustable back support  100 . A user  14  is shown positioned in the wheelchair  10  and is supported by the adjustable back support  100 . A head support  18  is coupled to the adjustable back support  100 , and is configured to support the head of the user  14 . The illustrated wheelchair  10  is a power wheelchair  10 , and more specifically an M3 CORPUS power wheelchair sold by Permobil AB, which has a corporate headquarters in Timrå, Sweden. In other embodiments, the power wheelchair  10  can be any suitable power wheelchair. It should also be appreciated that the wheelchair  10  is shown as a power wheelchair  10  for purposes of illustration. The adjustable back support  100  is not limited for use with a powered wheelchair, and can be used with any suitable wheelchair, such as a manual wheelchair. The illustrated head support  18  is a BODILINK head support  18  sold by The Comfort Companies, Inc. a division of Permobil AB, which has a corporate headquarters in Timrå, Sweden. An example of the head support  18  is also disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,327,554 and 10,716,721, the contents of each patent is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, any suitable head support associated with a wheelchair or other type of chair can be used. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates the adjustable back support  100  with the wheelchair  10  and the head support  18  removed for clarity. A pad  104  is provided on a first side  108  (also referred to as a user facing side  108 ) (shown in  FIG. 7 ) of the adjustable back support  100 . The pad  104  can include foam, a plurality of layers of foam, foam-like materials, or any other suitable materials that can provide comfort to the user  14  while reducing a risk of friction based, pressure based, or other types of sores or injury. The pad  104  is configured to be removable from the adjustable back support  100  to facilitate repair, replacement, or cleaning. A mounting assembly  300  is coupled to a second side  112  (also referred to as a back side  112 ) of the adjustable back support  100 . The second side  112  of the adjustable back support  100  is opposite the first side  108 . The mounting assembly  300  is configured to facilitate attachment of the adjustable back support  100  to the wheelchair  10 . The mounting assembly  300  is discussed in additional detail below. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates the adjustable back support  100  with the wheelchair  10 , the head support  18 , the pad  104 , and the mounting assembly  300  removed for clarity. The adjustable back support  100  includes a first adjustable back support assembly  116  coupled to a second adjustable back support assembly  120 . The first adjustable back support assembly  116  is separately adjustable relative to the second adjustable back support assembly  120 . The first adjustable back support assembly  116  is configured to engage a first portion  22  of the user  14 , while the second adjustable back support assembly  120  is configured to engage a second portion  26  of the user  14 . The adjustable back support  100  accordingly includes a plurality of separately adjustable back support assemblies  116 ,  120  that respectively provide support to different portions of the user  14 . The first portion  22  of the user  14  is generally in an area defined by the upper thoracic vertebrae of the user  14  (or an area of the thoracic vertebrae closer to the cervical vertebrae than the lumbar vertebrae, or an area in communication with the thoracic vertebrae). The first portion  22  can also be defined relative to a scapula area (or scapular range) of the user  14  (or around the scapular area of the user  14 ). The scapula area of the user  14  is approximately above the T6 vertebrae of the spine of the user  14 , and more specifically in the range of the T1-T6 vertebrae of the spine of the user  14 . The second portion  26  of the user  14  is generally in an area defined relative to the lumbar vertebrae (or an area of the lower thoracic vertebrae closer to the lumbar vertebrae than the cervical vertebrae). Accordingly, the first portion  22  of the user  14  is nearer the head of the user  14  than the second portion  26  of the user  14 . Stated another way, the second portion  26  of the user  14  is closer to the sacrum (or coccyx) than the first portion  22  of the user  14 . To facilitate engagement with the respective first and second portions  22 ,  26  of the user  14 , the first adjustable back support assembly  116  is vertically offset from the second adjustable back support assembly  120  relative to the spine of the user  14 . The first portion  22  can also be referred to as a first portion of the back  22 , and the second portion  26  can also be referred to as a second portion of the back  26 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates the adjustable back support  100  with the user  14  removed. The first adjustable back support assembly  116  (also referred to as an upper back support assembly  116 ) includes a first support member  124 , a second support member  128 , and a third support member  132 . The first support member  124  is coupled to the second adjustable back support assembly  120  (also referred to as a lower back support assembly  120 ). More specifically, the first support member  124  is coupled to a support shell  136  of the second back support assembly  120 . The first support member  124  is coupled to the support shell  136  by a first hinge assembly  140 . The second support member  128  is coupled to the first support member  124  by a second hinge assembly  144 . The third support member  132  is coupled to the first support member  124  by a third hinge assembly  148 . 
     Each hinge assembly  140 ,  144 ,  148  is defined by at least one hinge member  152 . In the illustrated example of embodiment, the first hinge assembly  140  includes a first hinge member  152   a  and a second hinge member  152   b . The second hinge assembly  144  includes one hinge member  152 , and the third hinge assembly  148  includes one hinge member  152 . In other examples of embodiments, the first hinge assembly  140  can include a single hinge member  152 , the second hinge assembly  144  can include a plurality of hinge members  152 ,  152   a ,  152   b , and/or the third hinge assembly  148  can include a plurality of hinge members  152 ,  152   a ,  152   b.    
     With reference to  FIG. 6 , the second hinge member  152   b  is shown in an exploded view. While the second hinge member  152   b  is shown, it should be appreciated that the first hinge member  152   a  and the hinge member  152  are substantially the same as the second hinge member  152   b . In the illustrated embodiment, the second hinge member  152   b  is a mirror image of the first hinge member  152   a , while the hinge member  152  is rotated 90 degrees relative to the orientation of the second hinge member  152   b . Each hinge member  152 ,  152   a ,  152   b  includes a first hinge portion  154   a  and a second hinge portion  154   b . The hinge portions  154   a ,  154   b  are substantially the same. The first hinge portion  154   a  is rotated 180 degrees relative to the second hinge portion  154   b . Each hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  includes at least one finger member  156 , and more specifically a plurality of finger members  156 . The finger members  156  of each hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  define a central aperture  158 . The finger members  156  of each hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  are spaced apart on the same hinge portions  154   a ,  154   b . Stated another way, the finger members  156  of the first hinge portion  154   a  are spaced apart along the first hinge portion  154   a , and the finger members  156  of the second hinge portion  154   b  are spaced apart along the second hinge portion  154   b . This spaced apart geometry provides for a meshing relationship of the finger members  156  of the first and second hinge portions  154   a ,  154   b . Stated another way, the finger members  156  of each hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  are configured to alternate, aligning the central apertures  158 . The aligned central apertures  158  are configured to receive a fastener assembly  160 . The fastener assembly  160  includes a fastener  162 , a first hub  164 , and a second hub  166 . The first hub  164  is received by the aligned central apertures  158  of the fingers  156  of the first and second hinge portions  154   a ,  154   b . The first hub  164  defines a central aperture  168  that is configured to receive the fastener  162 . The fastener  162  is a threaded fastener (e.g. a bolt, a screw, etc.) and is configured to engage a complimentary threaded aperture  170 . The threaded aperture  170  is defined by the second hub  166 . The second hub  166  also includes a geometric projection  172  that is configured to be received by a complimentary geometric recess  174  defined by the first hub  164 . The first hub  164  and the second hub  166  each also include a tapered, frustoconical surface  176 . The tapered surface  176  is configured to engage a corresponding tapered surface  178  defined by the inner circumference of the central apertures  158  of the two end finger members  156  of the meshed finger members  156 . An example of the hinge member  152 ,  152   a ,  152   b  is also disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,716,721, the contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, the hinge members  152 ,  152   a ,  152   b  can be any suitable hinge member assembly that provides a pivot, rotation, or associated movement of one (or both) of the connected members, and further is configured to selectively maintain a desired position in response to the pivot, rotation, or associated movement of one (or both) of the connected members. Each hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  is fastened to an associated component (e.g., first support member  124  to support shell  136 , first support member  124  to second support member  128 , and first support member  124  to third support member  132 ) by at least one fastener  180 , and more specifically a plurality of fasteners  180 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5 and 7 , the second support member  128  defines a first portion  182  and a second portion  184 . The first portion  182  is coupled to the first support member  124  by the second hinge assembly  144 . The second portion  184  is arranged at an angle to the first portion  182 . More specifically, the second portion  184  is arranged at an oblique angle to the first portion  182 , and extends from the first portion  182  towards the user  14 . The third support member  132  is substantially the same as the second support member  128 . However, the third support member  132  is a mirror image of the second support member  128 . In addition, the third support member  132  is coupled to the first support member  124  by the third hinge assembly  144 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , the first hinge assembly  140  defines a first axis of rotation  186 . More specifically, the at least one hinge portion  154   a ,  154   b  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) defines the first axis of rotation  186 . The second hinge assembly  144  defines a second axis of rotation  188 . More specifically, the hinge portion  154  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) defines the second axis of rotation  188 . The third hinge assembly  144  defines a third axis of rotation  190 . More specifically, the hinge portion  154  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) defines the third axis of rotation  190 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first axis of rotation  186  is oriented perpendicular to the second and third axes of rotation  188 ,  190 . In addition, the second and third axes of rotation  188 ,  190  are oriented parallel to each other. In other embodiments, the first axis of rotation  186  can be oriented at an oblique angle to the second and third axes of rotation  188 ,  190 . In addition, the second and third axes of rotation  188 ,  190  can be oriented at an oblique angle to each other. 
     The first adjustable back support assembly  116  is configured to be adjustable relative to the user  14  in a plurality of directions. More specifically, the first adjustable back support assembly  116  can be adjusted in three or more degrees of freedom relative to the user  14 . The first support member  124  is configured to rotate (or pivot) relative to the second adjustable back support assembly  120 , and more specifically the support shell  136 , around the first axis of rotation  186 . As such, the first support member  124  can rotate (or pivot) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the support shell  136 . The second and third support members  128 ,  132  are carried by the first support member  124  as it rotates (or pivots) around the first axis of rotation  186 . The second support member  128  is configured to rotate (or pivot) relative to the first support member  124  around the second axis of rotation  188 . As such, the second support member  128  can rotate (or pivot) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the first support member  124 . The third support member  132  is configured to rotate (or pivot) relative to the first support member  124  around the third axis of rotation  190 . As such, the third support member  132  can rotate (or pivot) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the first support member  124 . 
     With reference back to  FIGS. 5, 7, and 8 , the second adjustable back support assembly  120  includes the support shell  136 . The support shell  136  defines a central shell portion  192  and opposing side support shell portions  194   a, b  (also referred to as side support portions  194   a, b ). The side support shell portions  194   a ,  194   b  each extend away from the central shell portion  192  towards the user  14  at an oblique angle to the central shell portion  192 . The central shell portion  192  and opposing side support shell portions  194   a, b  together define a channel  196  (shown in  FIG. 7 ). The channel  196  is configured to receive a portion of the user  14 , such as the back of the user  14 , in response to engagement with the second adjustable back support assembly  120 . Each side support shell portion  194   a, b  defines a plurality of attachment locations  198 . The attachment locations  198  provide an attachment point for an adjustable lower back support assembly  200  (also referred to as an adjustable tension assembly  200 ) (shown in  FIG. 7 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment locations  198  are illustrated as slots  198  (also referred to as attachment slots  198 ). However, in other embodiments, each attachment location  198  can be any shape or structure suitable to facilitate attachment of the adjustable tension assembly  200  (e.g., an aperture, a hole, a groove, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, each side support shell portion  194   a, b  includes five attachment locations  198 . In other embodiments, each side support shell portion  194   a, b  can include at least one attachment location  198 , and more specifically two or more attachment locations  198 . Generally, the number of attachment locations  198  are the same on each side support shell portion  194   a, b  to facilitate attachment of the adjustable tension assembly  200 . It should be appreciated that the side support shell portions  194   a, b  are substantially the same, but are mirror images of each other. 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , the illustrated embodiment of the support shell  136  defines at least one aperture  204 . More specifically, the support shell  136  defines a pair of apertures  204   a, b . A first aperture  204   a  is positioned between the central shell portion  192  and a first side support shell portion  194   a . A second aperture  204   b  is positioned between the central shell portion  192  and a second side support shell portion  194   b . Stated another way, the apertures  204   a, b  are positioned on opposing sides of the central shell portion  192 . The apertures  204   a, b  provide access to the channel  196  to facilitate adjustment of the adjustable tension assembly  200 . As such, the apertures  204   a, b  can also be referred to as access apertures  204   a, b . It should be appreciated that the at least one access aperture  204  is optional, and in other embodiments the support shell  136  does not necessarily have at least one access aperture  204 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a first side view of the adjustable back support  100 . The first side support shell portion  194   a  defines at least one mounting location  208 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first side support shell portion  194   a  defines a plurality of mounting locations  208   a, b . In the illustrated embodiment, each mounting location  208   a, b  is illustrated as an elongated mounting slot  208   a, b . The elongated mounting locations  208   a, b  facilitate the option for selective attachment of associated components of the wheelchair  10 . For example, if desired, a lateral trunk support or any other suitable or desired component that can assist with improving the physical support, health, or experience of the user  14  during use of the wheelchair  10  can be mounted using at least one of the mounting locations  208   a, b . It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, each mounting location  208  can be any shape or structure suitable to facilitate attachment of an associated component of the wheelchair  10  (e.g., an aperture, a hole, a groove, etc.). While  FIG. 9  illustrates the first side support shell portion  194   a , the second side support shell portion  194   b  is generally a mirror image of the first side support shell portion  194   a . Accordingly, the second side support shell portion  194   b  includes the same components, including the mounting locations  208   a, b.    
     Referring back to  FIG. 7 , the adjustable tension assembly  200  includes a plurality of tension adjustment members  212 . In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable tension assembly  200  includes a first tension adjustment member  212   a , a second tension adjustment member  212   b , and a third tension adjustment member  212   c . Each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  extends between the first side support shell portion  194   a  and the second side support shell portion  194   b . More specifically, each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  is configured to engage at least one attachment location  198  of the first side support shell portion  194   a  and at least one attachment location  198  of the second side support shell portion  194   b . Each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  is accordingly coupled to each of the side support shell portions  194   a ,  194   b , and further extends from the first side support shell portion  194   a  to the second side support shell portion  194   b  (or from the second side support shell portion  194   b  to the first side support shell portion  194   a ). While the illustrated embodiment of the second adjustable back support assembly  120  depicts three tension adjustment members  212   a, b, c , in other embodiments, the second adjustable back support assembly  120  can include at least one tension adjustment member  212 , a plurality of tension adjustment members  212 , or any suitable or desired number of tension adjustment members  212  (e.g., one, two, three, four or more, etc.). It should be appreciated that in the illustrated figures, each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  is shown detached from the first side support shell portion  194   a  for purposes of clarity. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 10 , each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  is substantially the same. As such, the tension adjustment members  212   a, b, c  have common components, which will be discussed using common reference numbers. While  FIG. 10  provides reference numbers in association with the tension adjustment member  212   a , the same components are included in tension adjustment members  212   b, c . The reference numbers are not shown in  FIG. 10  in association with tension adjustment numbers  212   b, c  for purposes of clarity. Each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  includes a first strap portion  216 . The first strap portion  216  is coupled to the support shell  136  (see  FIG. 7 ), and more specifically to the first side support portion  194   a . The first strap portion  216  is illustrated as two separate straps  216   a ,  216   b  (or strap portions  216   a ,  216   b ). However, in other embodiments the first strap portion  216  can include a single strap or three or more straps. Each first second strap portion  216   a ,  216   b  can include (or define) a first guide member  220  (also referred to as a first guide channel  220 ). Each first guide member  220  can define (or otherwise provide) a path for a cable  224 . 
     Each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  also includes a carrier  228 . The carrier  228  carries an adjustable tension member  232 . The adjustable tension member  232  is configured to adjust a tension of the cable  224 . The adjustable tension member  232  can be a ratchet assembly, a ratchet actuator, or any other suitable assembly for adjusting a tension of the cable  224 . The carrier  228  can also carry a second guide member  236  (also referred to as a second guide channel  236 ). The second guide member  236  provides a path for the cable  224  with respect to the carrier  228 . The carrier  228  is also coupled to a second strap portion  240 . The second strap portion  240  is coupled to the support shell  136  (see  FIG. 7 ), and more specifically to the second side support portion  194   b . The second strap portion  240  is illustrated as two separate straps  240   a ,  240   b  (or strap portions  240   a ,  240   b ). However, in other embodiments the second strap portion  240  can include a single strap or three or more straps. 
     The strap portions  216 ,  240  are each configured to removably couple to the respective side support portion  194   a ,  194   b . More specifically, each strap portion  216 ,  240  can include a self-attachment fastener, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, to facilitate a self-attachment. For example, each strap portion  216 ,  240  can be received by a corresponding attachment location  198 , and then self-attach by engagement of the self-attachment fastener (i.e., a first portion of each strap  216 ,  240  engages a second portion of the same strap  216 ,  240 ). Each strap portion  216 ,  240  is not limited to use of a self-attachment fastener to facilitate self-attachment. In other embodiments, the strap portions  216 ,  240  can engage a corresponding attachment location  198 , or the respective side support portion  194   a ,  194   b , with any suitable or desired fastener or attachment system (e.g., a snap, a button and an eyelet, a buckle, a hook-and-eye, lacing, a zip tie, a clamp, a stitched loop, etc.). 
     The cable  224  is configured to extend from the adjustable tension member  232  to the first guide members  220  defined by the first strap portions  216   a, b . The cable  224  then extends through the first guide members  220  to the second guide member  236 . The path provided by the first and second guide members  220 ,  236  can reduce friction as a length of the cable  224  is selectively increased or decreased, while also guiding the cable  224  between the side support portions  194   a ,  194   b , and more specifically between the strap portions  216 ,  240 . 
     The adjustable tension member  232  is configured to be operated in a first configuration to decrease the length of the cable  224  extending between the side support portions  194   a ,  194   b , and more specifically to decrease the length of the cable  224  extending between the strap portions  216 ,  240 . In addition, the adjustable tension member  232  is configured to be operated in a second configuration to increase the length of the cable  224  extending between the side support portions  194   a ,  194   b , and more specifically to increase the length of the cable  224  extending between the strap portions  216 ,  240 . For example, in the illustrated embodiment, in the first configuration the adjustable tension member  232  can be rotated relative to the carrier  228  to decrease the length of the cable  224  extending between the side support portions  194   a ,  194   b  (or the strap portions  216 ,  240 ). In the second configuration, the adjustable tension member  232  can be actuated by sliding a portion of the member  232  perpendicular to the carrier  228  along an axis of rotation of the member  232 . This facilitates an increase in the length of the cable  224  extending between the side support portions  194   a ,  194   b  (or the strap portions  216 ,  240 ). It should be appreciated that to facilitate operation in the first or second configurations, the adjustable tension member  232  can be accessed through one (or both) of the access apertures  204   a, b  when the adjustable back support  100  is mounted to the wheelchair  10 . The access apertures  204   a, b  facilitate access to each adjustable tension member  232  through the channel  196 . It should also be appreciated that one or more alternative examples of the tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  is also disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,789,019 and 9,986,840, the contents of each patent is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     In other embodiments, the adjustable lower back support assembly  200  can include alternative structural components to achieve certain functionality for supporting a portion of the user  14 , as discussed further below. For example, in certain embodiments, each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  can include at least one strap (or elongated material) and a tension adjustment actuator. The tension adjustment actuator can be any device suitable to adjust a length of exposed strap material (e.g., a ratchet buckle configured to adjust a strap, ladder strap, or belt, a buckle configured to adjust a cinch cam strap, a cam buckle configured to adjust a strap, etc.). In yet other embodiments, each tension adjustment member  212   a, b, c  can be defined by a support member, such as a foam block, a foam wedge, or any other structure suitable for supporting a portion of the user  14 , as discussed further below. 
     In operation, the adjustable back support  100  provides two different back support assemblies, the first adjustable back support assembly  116  and the second adjustable back support assembly  120 , to provide adjustable, targeted support for a plurality of portions  22 ,  26  of the back (or spine) of the user  14 . 
     The first adjustable back support assembly  116  can be adjusted to selectively engage the first portion  22  of the user  14  to provide improved support to a user  14 . It should be appreciated that the first adjustable back support assembly  116  is configured to engage the first portion  22  of the user  14  independent of the spinal shape of the user  14 . More specifically, the user  14  can have any spinal shape, may or may not have a spinal deformity, and further may or may not have a spinal deformity in the sagittal and/or coronal planes. However, for a user  14  having one or more deformities (or a plurality of deformities) in the sagittal and/or coronal planes, the first adjustable back support assembly  116  can accommodate, correct, or improve spinal postures seen in the sagittal and/or coronal planes. The first adjustable back support assembly  116  can be adjusted to selectively engage the first portion  22  of the user  14  through adjustment (or movement) of the first adjustable back support assembly  116  relative to the second adjustable back support assembly  120 . More specifically, the first support member  124  can pivot (or rotate) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the support shell  136 . The second and third support members  128 ,  132  are carried by the first support member  124  as it pivots (or rotates) around the first axis of rotation  186  defined by the first hinge assembly  140 . The second support member  128  can pivot (or rotate) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the first support member  124 . The second support member  128  pivots (or rotates) around the second axis of rotation  188  defined by the second hinge assembly  144 . The third support member  132  can pivot (or rotate) towards the user  14  or away from the user  14  relative to the first support member  124 . The third support member  132  pivots (or rotates) around the third axis of rotation  190  defined by the third hinge assembly  148 . This adjustment provides support customized to the user  14 , and more specifically to address specific support needs required by the user  14  when using the wheelchair  10 . It should be appreciated that to facilitate movement of the support members  124 ,  128 ,  132 , the associated hinge assembly  140 ,  144 ,  148  is loosened to allow the described pivoting (or rotational) movement. Once a desired position of each support member  124 ,  128 ,  132  is achieved, the associated hinge assembly  140 ,  144 ,  148  is tightened to restrict further movement (such as undesirable or unintentional movement that could adversely address the selected support provided by the first adjustable back support assembly  116 ). 
     The second adjustable back support assembly  120  can be adjusted to selectively engage the second portion  26  of the user  14  to provide improved support to the user  14  in the sacral lumbar region and/or the posterior superior iliac spine (“PSIS”) region. More specifically, the second adjustable back support assembly  120  is configured to be actuated in a plurality of configurations to accommodate, correct, or improve spinal postures seen in the sacral lumbar region and/or the posterior superior iliac spine region. The second adjustable back support assembly  120  can improve alignment and redistribute pressure throughout the sacral lumbar region and/or PSIS region, which reduces strain (and pain) on the user  14 . It should be appreciated that the second adjustable back support assembly  120  is configured to engage the second portion  26  of the user  14  independent of the spinal shape of the user  14 . More specifically, the user  14  can have any spinal shape, may or may not have a spinal deformity, and further may or may not have a spinal deformity in the sacral lumbar region and/or the PSIS region. Independent of the user  14 , the second adjustable back support assembly  120  can operate with the first adjustable back support assembly  116  to improve or accommodate a sitting posture of the user  14 . In the illustrated embodiment, each tension adjustment member  212 ,  212   a ,  212   b ,  212   c  can be actuated to establish a desired length of the cable  224 . Each adjustable tension member  232  associated with each tension adjustment member  212 ,  212   a ,  212   b ,  212   c  can be selectively operated in the first configuration to decrease the length of exposed cable  224  or in the second configuration to selectively increase the length of exposed cable  224 . The desired exposed length of the cable  224  (e.g., either a longer or a shorter exposed length of the cable  224 ) can be selected based on a comfort of the user  14 , a proper pelvic neutral position sitting position of the user  14 , and/or as an orthotic to achieve a desired outcome for the user  14 . Each tension adjustment member  212 ,  212   a ,  212   b ,  212   c  provides selective support for the user  14 , while the user  14  has room to extend into the channel  196 . 
     There are a plurality (or numerous) alternatives available to mount the adjustable back support  100  to an associated sitting platform. The alternative used often is dependent upon the associated sitting platform. In the illustrated embodiment shown in  FIGS. 11-12 , the mounting assembly  300  shown is for mounting the adjustable back support  100  to the wheelchair  10 , and more specifically the power wheelchair  10 . An example of the mounting assembly  300  is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 10,369,065, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. The mounting assembly  300  includes an adapter plate  304  that is configured to selectively attach to a slide plate  308 . With reference to  FIG. 11 , the adapter plate  304  includes a plurality of first apertures  312 . The plurality of first apertures  312  are positioned in four different vertically aligned groups of first apertures  312 . One aperture from each of the groups of apertures  312  is configured to align with an associated aperture  316  in the central shell portion  192 . Each of the aligned apertures  312 ,  316  are configured to receive a fastener (not shown) (e.g., a bolt, screw, etc.) to selectively attach the adapter plate  304  to the adjustable back support  100 . The four different vertically aligned groups of first apertures  312  of the adapter plate  304  provides adjustability of the adapter plate  304  relative to the adjustable back support  100 . For example, different user&#39;s  14  may have different heights, shapes, sizes, or ages (e.g., juvenile vs. adult). This may require a different position of the adapter plate  304  relative to the adjustable back support  100  to facilitate a proper fit of the adjustable back support  100  to the user. 
     With reference to  FIG. 12 , an example of the slide plate  308  is illustrated. It should be appreciated that the slide plate  308  can have a different shape, configuration, or structure dependent upon the manufacturer of the wheelchair  10 , and further the manufacturer of the power wheelchair  10 . The slide plate  308  shown in  FIG. 12  is associated with the M3 CORPUS power wheelchair sold by Permobil AB. In various alternative embodiments, the slide plate  308  can be any suitable structure or component to couple the adjustable back support  100  to the wheelchair  10 . Further, in yet other embodiments, the slide plate  308  can be optional, and any structure suitable for selectively attaching the adjustable back support  100  to a sitting platform  10  can be used. With specific reference to  FIG. 12 , the adapter plate  304  is configured to selectively attach to the slide plate  308 . The slide plate  308  is configured to selectively attach to the wheelchair  10 . The slide plate  308  can include a plurality of apertures  320 . The apertures  320  are configured to align with corresponding apertures (not shown) on the wheelchair  10 . These aligned apertures  320 , not shown are configured to receive a fastener (not shown) (e.g., a bolt, screw, etc.) to selectively attach the slide plate  308  to the wheelchair  10 . The slide plate  308  also includes a plurality of pins  324 . Each of the pins  324  is configured to be selectively received by an associated pin aperture  328  defined by the adapter plate  304 . Each pin aperture  328  receives one of the pins  324  to removably fasten the slide plate  308  to the adapter plate  304  (and the adjustable back support  100  to the wheelchair  10 ). 
       FIG. 13  illustrated another example of an embodiment of an adjustable back support  100   a . The adjustable back support  100   a  includes the same features as the adjustable back support  100 , with like numbers identifying like components. For brevity and clarity, the differences are highlighted below. Although not limited thereto, the adjustable back support  100   a  can be configured for attachment to a manual wheelchair  10 , or other sitting platform or mobility device having cane mounts. As such, the adjustable back support  100   a  includes cane clamp assemblies  400  selectively mounted to the elongated mounting slots  208  defined by the support shell  136 . An example of the cane clamp assembly  400  is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,595,635, the contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In the illustrated example, the adjustable back support  100   a  also includes a single access aperture  204  that is defined by the central shell portion  192 . As an example, a manual wheelchair generally does not include a structural back that requires mounting with the mounting assembly  300 . Stated another way, there is no structure blocking access to the aperture  204  in the central shell portion  192 . This structure can require multiple access apertures  204   a ,  204   b  to provide access to the second adjustable back support assembly  120 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 14 , there will now be described a procedure  500  (or a process  500 ) for selectively adjusting one or more flexible deformities seen in the sagittal plane of the user  14  when positioned in the wheelchair  10 . It should be appreciated that the procedure  500  is also configured to adapt to one or more fixed deformities of the user  14 , such as deformities seen in the sagittal plane. A fixed deformity in the sagittal plane can include, but is not limited to scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis, flatback syndrome, any sagittal imbalance, or any other a congenital, idiopathic, degenerative, or post-traumatic deformity of the spine or portion of the body. If a user  14  has a fixed deformity that cannot be adjusted, repositioned, or otherwise moved in response to adjustment of one or more of the described lower and/or upper back supports, the procedure  500  can be adapted to the user  14  by omitting one or more of the related steps of the procedure  500 . Omission of one or more of the steps facilitates accommodation to the user  14 , while also resulting in improved support for the user  14  of the wheelchair  10 . As such, the procedure  500  is advantageously adapted to accommodate different needs of different users  14 , while still providing improved support for the user  14 . 
     It should be appreciated that the procedure  500  illustrated in  FIG. 14  is described in association with the adjustable back support  100 ,  100   a . However, the procedure  500  can be implemented with any suitable back support and/or adjustment assembly to reposition the portion of the user  14  described therein. For purposes of explanation, the procedure  500  is illustrated as including a series of steps that are depicted in flow diagram form in  FIG. 14 . As noted above, to accommodate different users  14 , such as a user having one or more fixed deformities, it should be appreciated that one or more of the steps can be selectively omitted. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , prior to step  504 , the user  14  can be sitting in the wheelchair  10  (or other sitting platform or mobility device). While it can be advantageous to have the user  14  sitting in the wheelchair  10 , in other embodiments the user  14  does not have to be sitting or otherwise positioned in the wheelchair  10  (or other sitting platform or mobility device). 
     The procedure  500  begins at step  504 . At step  504 , a first lower back support can be adjusted to engage and adjust a first, lower portion of the back of a user  14 . The first lower back support is configured to adjust a position of the pelvis of the user  14 , rotating the pelvis to a more pelvic neutral position. This can include rotating the pelvis forward or backward. In one example of an embodiment, the first lower back support can include the adjustable lower back support assembly  200 . More specifically, the first lower back support can include at least one tension adjustment member  212  (see  FIG. 10 ). In certain embodiments, the at least one tension adjustment member  212  can include the third tension adjustment member  212   c . In other embodiments, the at least one tension adjustment member  212  can include the third tension adjustment member  212   c  and the second tension adjustment member  212   b . Generally, the first lower back support can include the portion of the adjustable lower back support assembly  200  that engages the user  14  at a position to facilitate adjustment of the sacral lumbar region and/or PSIS region. In yet other embodiments, the first lower back support assembly can include a foam block, a foam wedge, or any other structure suitable for repositioning the pelvis of the user  14  to a more pelvic neutral position (e.g., rotation of the pelvis forward, rotation of the pelvis backward, etc.). 
     Next, at step  508 , a second lower back support can be adjusted to engage and adjust a second portion of the back of the user  14 . The second portion of the back of the user  14  is generally positioned above the first portion of the back of the user  14  (or towards the head). The second lower back support is configured to adjust a curvature (or position) of the lumbar portion of the spine, to support a natural lumbar curve. It should be appreciated that the lumbar portion of the spine is positioned above the pelvic region (or towards the head of the user  14 ). The second lower back support is positioned above the first lower back support (or laterally closer to the first adjustable back support assembly  116  than the first lower back support). The second lower back support can include at least one tension adjustment member  212  (see  FIG. 10 ). In certain embodiments, the at least one tension adjustment member  212  can include the first tension adjustment member  212   a . In other embodiments, the at least one tension adjustment member  212  can include the first tension adjustment member  212   a  and the second tension adjustment member  212   b . Generally, the second lower back support can include the portion of the adjustable lower back support assembly  200  that engages the user  14  at a position to facilitate adjustment of the sacral lumbar region and/or lumbar portion of the spine. In yet other embodiments, the second lower back support can include a foam block, a foam wedge, or any other structure suitable for repositioning and/or supporting the lumbar portion of the spine of the user  14  to provide a natural lumbar curve. It should be appreciated that in the illustrated embodiments, the first lower back support and the second lower back support are defined by the adjustable lower back support assembly  200 . 
     At step  512 , a first upper back support can be adjusted to engage and adjust a third portion of the back of the user  14 . The third portion of the back of the user  14  is generally positioned above the first portion and the second portion of the back of the user  14  (or closer towards the head). The first upper back support is configured to adjust (or pivot or position) the thoracic region of the spine, to support a natural thoracic curve (or a natural upper thoracic curve). This in turn provides a more complete (or full) thoracic extension. It should be appreciated that the thoracic curve can be defined by the T1-T6 vertebrae of the spine of the user  14 . The first upper back support is positioned above the second lower back support and the first lower back support. In certain embodiments, the first upper back support can include the first support member  124  (see  FIG. 8 ). In yet other embodiments, the first upper back support can include a foam block, a foam wedge, or any other structure suitable for repositioning and/or supporting the thoracic portion of the spine of the user  14  to provide a natural upper thoracic curve. 
     At step  516 , a second upper back support can be adjusted to engage and adjust a fourth portion of the back of the user  14 . The fourth portion of the back of the user  14  is generally positioned above the first portion and the second portion of the back of the user  14  (or closer towards the head). The second upper back support is configured to adjust (or pivot or position) a scapular region to support a natural, open scapular retraction. In certain embodiments, the second upper back support can include the second and third support members  128 ,  132  (see  FIG. 8 ). In yet other embodiments, the second upper back support can include a foam block, a foam wedge, or any other structure suitable for repositioning and/or supporting the scapular region of the user  14  to provide for natural, open scapular retraction. 
     One or more aspects of the adjustable back support  100 ,  100   a  provides certain advantages. For example, the two different, separately adjustable back support assemblies  116 ,  120  of the adjustable back support  100 ,  100   a  advantageously provides customized support for the user  14 , while selectively providing improved positioning and support to the user  14  in the sacral lumbar region, the posterior superior iliac spine (“PSIS”) region, while also providing support and addressing any deformities in the sagittal and/or coronal planes. In addition, the separately adjustable back support assemblies  116 ,  120  of the adjustable back support  100 ,  100   a  provides for improved posture and support of the user  14  by adjusting (or rotating) the pelvis into a more pelvic neutral position, adjusting the lumbar curvature to a more natural lumbar curve, adjusting the thoracic region curvature to a more natural upper thoracic curve, and adjusting a scapular region to provide for a more natural, open scapular retraction. This improves user  14  posture, reduces risk of injury from extended sitting, and overall improves the health of the user  14  while sitting in the wheelchair  10 . The separately adjustable back support assemblies  116 ,  120  can also provide selective support for a user  14  having one or more flexible deformities in the sagittal plane, while also advantageously accommodating a user  14  having one or more fixed deformities in the sagittal plane. These and other advantages are realized by the disclosure provided herein.