Abstract:
There are many types of bariatric lift apparatuses. Some of the present designs are inherently unstable in nature because of their basic design philosophy. Others are extremely large and bulky and can not be used effectively in the bariatric patient&#39;s living quarters. In others there is inability to transfer bariatric patients from certain type of beds or other furniture items because the devices contain certain obstacles which are inherent to their design. One of the functions of the apparatus is to provide controlled unassisted transfer from the bed to the apparatus. The inability of some bariatric patients to provide any self induced lifting in a normal manner is a major limiting feature of present-day gurney and/or lift chair designs. As the obesity rate climbs nationwide, obese and morbidly obese patients will continue to pose special lifting challenges to the healthcare industry.

Description:
FIELD OF SEARCH 
       [0001]    5/81 R; 5/81.1: 5/81.1RP; 5/83.1; 5/86.1; 5/87.1; 5/89.1; 177/144 and 254/8 R 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
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         [0002]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/402,676 filed Sep. 2, 2010, incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    1. Technical Field 
         [0004]    This invention relates to a portable patient lift apparatus for use by humans. More specifically, this invention relates to a portable lifting apparatus for assisting in lifting obese individuals in and out of a hospital bed or other locations and then transporting them to a different location. 
         [0005]    Nursing staffs have the highest incidences of work-relate back problems of any occupation. The incidence rate continues to climb. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for a major portion of the cost of work-related injuries in the United States. A contributing factor is the fact that the American population has become one of the most overweight in the world. Nearly 97 million American adults are overweight. Of the 97 million overweight American adults, it is estimated that 4 million are severely obese [Body Mass Index {BMI}&gt;35 and 1.5 million [BMI&gt;40] are morbidly obese. 
         [0006]    With these rising numbers of severely and morbidly obese individuals come numerous complications relating to medical treatment. Besides the cost issue, healthcare providers must consider the daunting safety implications for both the patient and caregiver. One specific problem lies in simply providing a means for these patients to be able to rise or sit on the hospital bed or other locations without the risk of harm to the patient and/or the caregiver performing this task. 
         [0007]    The movement of bariatric patients (a medical term derived from the Greek word “baros” meaning weight) produces special challenges to health care professionals. Internationally, a bariatric patient is defined as an individual that has a BMI&gt;30. Many studies have shown that health care workers are at the greatest risk for musculoskeletal injuries when dealing with bariatric patients, particularly in the sit-to-stand transfer mode. The best way to ensure safe patient handling is through the use of specialized mechanical equipment that is designed to meet the size and weight requirements of the bariatric patient. 
         [0008]    One of the main benefits of the apparatus is that it requires only a single person to perform the sit-to-stand transfer function of the bariatric patient, which in turn will reduce the resources expended to perform this task. 
         [0009]    2. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0010]    There are many types of mechanical lift mechanisms on the market for bariatric patient lifting. Some of the present designs are inherently unstable in nature because of their basic design philosophy. Others are extremely large and bulky and can not be used effectively in the bariatric patient&#39;s room. In others, the inability to transfer bariatric patients from certain types of wheelchairs or other assistive items because they contain certain obstacles is inherent to their design. One of the functions of the apparatus is to provide controlled unassisted lifting movement for the user. The inability of some bariatric patients to provide any self induced lifting in a normal manner without the chance of a fall is a major limiting feature of present mechanical lift device designs. 
         [0011]    There are at least 6 types of mechanical lift mechanisms on the market today. They range from the following: 1) Powered Hospital bed that converts to a chair (known as a Total Care Bed System®); 2) Permanently mounted powered ceiling system; 3) Permanently mounted powered wall system; 4) A mobile powered sling lift mechanical device; 5) Mobile powered lift/stand mechanical device; and 6) Powered Standing Frame mechanical device. However, each of these types has at least one major deficiency. 
         [0012]    The majority of the lift systems are some type of a sling mechanism. The sling is subject to several types of failures. The FDA has reported that there have been more than 50 deaths and over 500 patients have been seriously hurt because of failure of sling type lift systems. The following is summation of failures that caused death or severe injuries: 1) The patient fell to the floor when the strap that attaches the sling to the lifting frame failed; 2) The patient fell to the floor when the gravity-activated locking clip which holds the strap to the lifting frame failed; 3) The patient fell to the floor because of the patient&#39;s movement within the sling allowed the sling to slip out of the spreader bar; 4) The patient fell to the floor because the sling that was used was too large for the patient; 5) The patient fell because the lifting frame failed because of excessive load; and 6) The patient fell to the floor because the lifting mechanism that raises and lowers the jib failed resulting in the sudden drop of the jib. 
         [0013]    The ceiling lift is one of the newest types of patient lift systems and has been available in the United States for several years. The main disadvantages associated with the ceiling lift system are the installation of overhead tracks and failure and/or stoppage of the electric drive motor unit. A track must be procured and installed in each room that requires patient transfer capabilities. Room to room transfer with the ceiling lift system will be difficult. One problem is the removal of doorway headers and replacing them with some type of header assembly that will let the ceiling lift system pass from room to room but still provide privacy to the patient. Also load conditions on the ceiling and walls must be considered in the installation of this type of patient lifter. 
         [0014]    The wall mounted lift system is similar to the ceiling lift system except the lifting motor unit is attached to a wall mounted jib rather than a track. The main disadvantages associated with the wall mounted lift system are the limited transfer range and failure and/or stoppage of the electric drive motor unit. 
         [0015]    The powered mobile sling lift system also known as the Hoyer style lifter is the most commonly used. The main disadvantages associated with the powered mobile sling lift system are the ability of the caregiver to maneuver the lifter once a patient is loaded into the sling, failure of the jib mechanism and/or failure and/or stoppage of the electric lift motor unit. 
         [0016]    A major problem with the use of any sling lift system is the fact that the patient requires a lift team (two or more caregivers who are trained in proper lifting techniques) to move the bariatric patient on to and off the sling. Another problem is to provide the necessary force to move the lift mechanism to the desired location. To instruct the patient to remain motionless while being lifted to reduce the chance of lift mechanism instability is another concern. 
         [0017]    The powered mobile sit/stand system differs from the three previous mentioned lift systems in the fact that the patient must be cognitive and provide some cooperative effort in the lifting task. The patient must possess some muscle tone in at least one lower limb, trunk and at least one upper limb. The main disadvantages associated with the mobile sit/stand system are the clearance required for the legs and/or maneuver the lifter once the patient is loaded on the lifter. 
         [0018]    The powered standing frame system is similar to the mobile sit/stand system but it provides for a work area so that the patient can perform various tasks while standing without the fear of falling. The main disadvantages associated with the powered standing frame system are the ability of the caregiver to maneuver the system once a patient is standing in the device, failure of the control mechanism and/or failure and/or stoppage of the electric lift motor unit. 
         [0019]    As mentioned above the Total Care Bed System® is not a lifting mechanism per se, it only positions the patient from a prone to sitting position but does not lift the patient out of the bed and transfer the patient to a new location. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0020]    Presently there are many techniques for providing maximum structural capabilities to patient lifting system designs. These patient lifting system designs have inherent deficiencies because of limited stability, mobility, space and ruggedness required in their use. The inability to acquire stress analysis data from these patient lifting system designs in a natural surrounding introduces some distortion in the data acquired and its interpretation of the data as a result of their inherent designs. In some cases it requires the tester to use cumbersome hardware and/or testing harness(s) in order to obtain the desired data for evaluation. 
         [0021]    One of the unique features of this patient lifting system is that it allows the patient to maintain or increase muscle tone, range of motion and possibly optimize blood flow in their extremities. 
         [0022]    The apparatus uses a specialized drive wheel set to negotiate around various restrictive areas. The apparatus has steering and drive wheel(s), which are microprocessor controlled. In the storage mode the apparatus collapses into a small mobile module that stands approximately 3 feet tall and base circumference approximately of 3 feet in diameter. When fully operational the apparatus has approximately a maximum of 6 feet in height, appendages that have approximately a maximum reach of 5 feet and a base radius of approximately 3½ feet. The entire apparatus is motorized, which can operate on internal power source or external power. The caregiver operates the entire configuration by means of a remote controller, which is connected to microprocessor via a wireless or wired datalink. This includes transformation from storage to operational mode, movement of the appendages, and movement of the apparatus to various locations. The caregiver will determine direction, speed of the apparatus and location of the various appendages so as to lift the patient from one location and transport the patient to a different location by sending the appropriate control signal(s) to the various drive units that manipulate the various appendages and/or drive wheel(s). Each power drive unit consists primarily of a drive motor, gear reduction unit, coupling mechanisms and electronic control module. Steering is accomplished by control signals generated by the caregiver to drive a reversible DC brushless motor that rotates the rear drive wheel unit to the desired alignment direction. Also, a built-in power source such as lithium, Silver-Zinc, Alkali-Zinc batteries or some other power source [such as fuel cell(s), etc.] will provide the power required for each control module and various DC brushless motors. Power drive units could also be operated by means of hydraulics or similar power source rather than DC brushless motors. 
         [0023]    The overall apparatus is designed for ease of use, transport and storage. In designing stability into the apparatus, overall effectiveness and safety was not compromised. The stability of the apparatus is determined and measured by the center of gravity and the resistance to tip-over of the apparatus over any given terrain. The apparatus&#39;s weight plus the patient&#39;s weight upon the apparatus determines where the center of gravity will be for the apparatus. This new center of gravity and overall horizontal footprint will dictate if the apparatus will tip-over. The stability effectiveness of the apparatus is defined as the Apparatus&#39;s Stability Index (ASI). The higher the ASI, the less stable the apparatus becomes. As a general rule of thumb, a lower ASI not only equates to better stability of the apparatus but also indicates better performance on inclines, in non-stable surface (such as cracks, gap crossings, broken tiles, etc.). 
         [0024]    From a stability perspective, the apparatus design offers the best solution for a versatile apparatus that is required to operate over diverse surfaces. This is because the design inherently provides a greater horizontal area (footprint) projection than standard mobile patient lift designs, resulting in a lower ASI. The design incorporates a very low ASI and uses weight reduction techniques such as hybrid composite materials. Size constraints were imposed during the design phase without compromise to safety. Design criteria have dictated that the overall apparatus is built for durability and safety. The apparatus&#39;s mobility will not be impacted by its traction ability over various surfaces (such as tile, cracks, gap crossings, broken tiles, etc.). 
         [0025]    In the obese user population 14% are apple in shape where the excess body mass is located in the upper torso (above the waist) and upper extremities. The other 86% of the obese population are pear in shape where the excess body mass is located in the lower torso (below the waist) and lower extremities. The skeletal frame of the user does not change with the addition of excess body mass but does limit the motion of the individual user. To accommodate this excess body mass a throne shaped cavity is incorporated within the lower trunk unit of the apparatus. The throne shaped cavity is encapsulated by a liner that is removable and is cleanable. Rather than sit in the throne shaped cavity, the obese user stands and faces the cavity and uses the arm rests as support because an obese user will have great difficulty in raising his/her upper extremities above the shoulder level. The extreme large obese user will have great difficulties rising above the elbow level. Therefore, the user might not be able to use the lifting arm portion of the apparatus but rather use the arm rest portion of the throne shaped cavity. This throne shaped cavity provides stability to the user and minimizes potential falls from the apparatus while entering, in transit, and/or exiting. A sling and retractable seat are incorporated into the apparatus (in the extreme large obese user version) to provide necessary support and stability to the user during transition from sitting to standing configuration and from standing to sitting configuration. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0026]    Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment of thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0027]      FIG. 1   a  is an overall view of the invention for obese users and depicts the apparatus in is fully extended mode configuration with sling hoist output located at the side of the apparatus; 
           [0028]      FIG. 1   b  is an overall view of the invention and extremely large obese users depicts the apparatus in is fully extended mode configuration with sling hoist output located at the front of the apparatus; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2   a  is schematic presentations of the front view of the lower trunk unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0030]      FIG. 2   b  is schematic presentations of the left side view of the lower trunk unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0031]      FIG. 2   c  is schematic presentations of the right side view of the lower trunk unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0032]      FIG. 2   d  is schematic presentations of the back side view of the lower trunk unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0033]      FIG. 2   e  is schematic presentations of the left side view of the lower trunk unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0034]      FIG. 2   f  is schematic presentations of the right side view of the lower trunk unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0035]      FIG. 2   g  is schematic presentations of the front view of the lower trunk unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0036]      FIG. 2   h  is schematic presentations of the rear view of the lower trunk unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0037]      FIG. 3   a  is schematic presentations of the top side view of the upper trunk unit for the fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0038]      FIG. 3   b  is schematic presentations of the left side view of the upper trunk unit for the fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0039]      FIG. 3   c  is schematic presentations of the front side view of the upper trunk unit for the fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0040]      FIG. 3   d  is schematic presentations of the right side view of the upper trunk unit for the fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the obese user configuration; 
           [0041]      FIG. 3   e  is schematic presentations of the top side view of the upper trunk unit for the variable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0042]      FIG. 3   f  is schematic presentations of the left side view of the upper trunk unit for the variable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0043]      FIG. 3   g  is schematic presentations of the front side view of the upper trunk unit for the variable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0044]      FIG. 3   h  is schematic presentations of the right side view of the upper trunk unit for the variable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit in the extremely large obese user configuration; 
           [0045]      FIG. 4   a  is schematic presentations of the top side view of the chin/head padded support unit configuration; 
           [0046]      FIG. 4   b  is schematic presentations of the left side view of the chin/head padded support unit configuration; 
           [0047]      FIG. 4   c  is schematic presentations of the front side view of the chin/head padded support unit configuration; 
           [0048]      FIG. 4   d  is schematic presentations of the right side view of the chin/head padded support unit configuration; 
           [0049]      FIG. 5   a  is schematic presentations of the left side variable geometry stability fin unit in the obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0050]      FIG. 5   b  is schematic presentations of the right side variable geometry stability fin unit in the obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0051]      FIG. 5   c  is schematic presentations of the rear side variable geometry stability fin units in the obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0052]      FIG. 5   d  is the schematic presentation of the external right side of the retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0053]      FIG. 5   e  is the schematic presentation of the entire right side of the retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0054]      FIG. 5   f  is the schematic presentation of the external left side of the retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0055]      FIG. 5   g  is the schematic presentation of the entire left side of the retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0056]      FIG. 5   h  is the schematic presentation of the bottom side of the lower trunk unit with the retractable stability fin units extended for the extremely large obese user configuration of the invention; 
           [0057]      FIG. 6   a  is schematic presentations of left side outer wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0058]      FIG. 6   b  is schematic presentations of right side outer wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0059]      FIG. 6   c  is schematic presentations of steerable drive wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0060]      FIG. 6   d  is schematic presentations of left side inner wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0061]      FIG. 6   e  is schematic presentations of right side inner wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0062]      FIG. 6   f  is schematic presentations of left side movable wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0063]      FIG. 6   g  is schematic presentations of right side movable wheel unit of the invention; 
           [0064]      FIG. 7   a  is schematic presentations of the left side adjustable knee support unit of the invention; 
           [0065]      FIG. 7   b  is schematic presentations of the right side adjustable knee support unit of the invention; 
           [0066]      FIG. 8   a  is schematic presentations of the left side inside view of the lifting arm unit of the invention; 
           [0067]      FIG. 8   b  is schematic presentations of the left side outside view of the lifting arm unit of the invention; 
           [0068]      FIG. 8   c  is schematic presentations of the right side inside view of the lifting arm unit of the invention; 
           [0069]      FIG. 8   d  is schematic presentations of the left side outside view of the lifting arm unit of the invention; 
           [0070]      FIG. 9   a  is schematic presentations of left side extender bar unit of the invention; 
           [0071]      FIG. 9   b  is schematic presentations of the right side extender bar unit of the invention; 
           [0072]      FIG. 10  is schematic presentations of the external view of the chin/head holder unit and lift unit of the invention; 
           [0073]      FIG. 11  is schematic presentations of the external view of the side mounted winch unit of the invention; 
           [0074]      FIG. 12  is schematic presentations of the external view of the front mounted which unit of the invention; 
           [0075]      FIG. 13   a  is an external view of the wireless mode handheld transmitter control unit for the obese user version of the invention; 
           [0076]      FIG. 13   b  is an external view of the wireless mode handheld transmitter control unit for the obese user version of the invention; 
           [0077]      FIG. 13   c  is an external view of the wired mode handheld control unit for the extreme large obese user version of the invention; 
           [0078]      FIG. 13   c  is an external view of the wired mode handheld control unit for the extreme large obese user of the invention; 
           [0079]      FIG. 14   a  is a block diagram of a wireless IR embodiment for the obese user version of the invention; 
           [0080]      FIG. 14   b  is a block diagram of a wireless IR embodiment for the extreme large obese user version of the invention; 
           [0081]      FIG. 15   a  is a block diagram of a wireless RF embodiment for the obese user version of the invention; 
           [0082]      FIG. 15   b  is a block diagram of a wireless RF embodiment for the extreme large obese user version of the invention; 
           [0083]      FIG. 16   a  is a block diagram of a wired embodiment for the obese user version of the invention; 
           [0084]      FIG. 16   a  is a block diagram of a wired embodiment for the extreme large obese user version of the invention; 
           [0085]      FIG. 17   a  is a block diagram of the electronic configuration of the wireless version of the obese version of the invention; 
           [0086]      FIG. 17   b  is a block diagram of the electronic configuration of the wireless version of the extreme large obese version of the invention; 
           [0087]      FIG. 18   a  is a block diagram of the electronic configuration of the wired version of the obese version of the invention; 
           [0088]      FIG. 18   b  is a block diagram of the electronic configuration of the wired version of the extreme large obese version of the invention; 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0089]    Referring now to the drawings, wherein identical numerals indicate identical parts, and initially in  FIGS. 1   a  and  1   b  which shows the profile view of the device in its lowest to its elevated position so the user can rise from a seated position and then be located to another position. 
         [0090]      FIG. 1   a  shows the overall external views of the apparatus.  FIG. 1   a  version of the apparatus is for obese users of the apparatus. The obese user apparatus shown in  FIG. 1   a,  consists of a lower trunk unit  1  (within the lower trunk unit  1  is a removable and cleanable cavity liner unit  270 ), an upper trunk unit  2  that is nested into the lower trunk unit  1  along with the chin/head padded support unit  11  and which is nested into the upper trunk unit  2 . Variable geometry stability fin units  4 A (not shown),  4 B and  4 C are attached to the lower trunk unit  1 . Variable geometry stability fin units  4 A (not shown),  4 B and  4 C have access through openings  21 A (not shown),  21 B, and  21 C (not shown). The weight, overall height of the user that is to be lifted is programmed into the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor unit  140  (not shown), which in turn determine the exact length of these stability fin units  4 A (not shown),  4 B, and  4 C (not shown). The overall height of the invention is also controlled by the microprocessor. The user&#39;s physical size and weight dictates what the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B length will be and the spread distance between these lift arm units which is determined by the length of extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B. Elbow joint sleeve units  17 A (not shown) and  17 B couples lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B to extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B. On the lower trunk unit  1  is a set of adjustable padded knee support units,  7 A and  7 B and padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B which are adjusted by the operator of the apparatus to fit the user&#39;s proportions. The positioning of the upper trunk unit  2 , chin/head padded support unit  11 , stability fin units  4 A (not shown),  4 B and  4 C, lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B, padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B, fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tubes unit  24 A and  24 B and extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B is by reversible brushless DC motors with appropriate gearheads and various linkage mechanisms (not shown) which are in the control of the operator of the apparatus by means of a handheld control unit  9 A (not shown) that has a wireless data link to a transceiver unit  153  (not shown) or  154  (not shown) or a handheld control unit  9 B (not shown) has wired data link to converter unit  155  (not shown). The transceiver unit  153  (not shown) or  154  (not shown) is internally connected to the microprocessor unit  140  (not shown) within the apparatus. The apparatus in the obese user version maneuvers by means of wheel units  6 A (not shown),  6 B,  6 D,  6 F and  6 G and steerable and reversible drive wheel unit  6 C. A rigid deflection screen unit  170  (not shown) deflects debris that in the travel path of the apparatus. Debris or small/large depressions in the floor that might effect the stability of the apparatus are detected by the rigid deflection screen unit [ 170 A,  170 B and  170 C] (not shown) and causes the deflection screen alarm unit  171  (not shown) to be activated and alerts the operator of the apparatus to take evasive action to protect the user of the apparatus. The internal power source unit  131  [not shown] and electronics control unit  132  (not shown) are located in inner portion of lower trunk unit  1  with access through compartment door unit  12 A (not shown). If the user is lying on the bed he/she can grasp handle units  16 A and  16 B. The user stands on footrest platform unit  19  and supported by retractable support platform unit  271 . When the user is standing the support platform unit  271  retracts and the user can switch to handle units  16 C (not shown) and  16 D if desired. Arm pad units  18 A and  18 B provide cushioning. Also a chest protector pad unit  10  is mounted on the upper trunk unit  2  for the user&#39;s comfort and protection. Within lifting arm unit  8 A is gear rack unit  82  which allows for movement of lifting arm unit  8 A. Similarly, lifting arm unit  8 B has gear rack unit  83  (not shown), Fixed front delivery tube units ( 161 A and  161 B) [not shown] which are connected to sling/harness unit  220  [not shown]. Throne shaped cavity is able to accommodate the access body mass for both apple and pear shaped obese user of the apparatus. 
         [0091]      FIG. 1   b  shows the overall external views of the apparatus and is used by extremely large obese users whose girth is limited. The apparatus shown in  FIG. 1   b,  consists of a lower trunk unit  1  (within the lower trunk unit  1  is a removable and cleanable throne shaped cavity liner unit  270 ), an upper trunk unit  2  that is nested into the lower trunk unit  1  along with the chin/head padded support unit  11  and which is nested into the upper trunk unit  2 . The user stands on footrest platform unit  19 , with retractable support platform unit  271 . For the extremely obese user configuration ( FIG. 1   b ), retractable outrigger stability fin units  4 D (not shown),  4 E and  4 C are attached to the lower trunk unit  1 . A throne shaped cavity is able to accommodate the access body mass for either the apple or pear shaped extreme large obese user of the apparatus. The weight, overall height of the patient that is to be lifted is programmed into the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor unit  140  (not shown). The overall height of the invention is also controlled by the microprocessor. The user&#39;s physical height and weight dictates what the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B length will be and the spread distance between these lift arm units which is determined by the length of extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B. Elbow joint sleeve units  17 A (not shown) and  17 B couples lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B to extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B. On the lower trunk unit  1  is a set of adjustable padded knee support units,  7 A and  7 B and padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B which are adjusted by the operator of the apparatus to fit the user&#39;s proportions. The positioning of the upper trunk unit  2 , chin/head padded support unit  11 , stability fin units  4 A (not shown),  4 B and  4 C, lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B, padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B, adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube units  24 C (not shown) and  24 D and extender bar units  14 A (not shown) and  14 B is by reversible brushless DC motors with appropriate gearheads and various linkage mechanisms (not shown) which are in the control of the operator of the apparatus by means of a handheld control unit  9 A (not shown) that has a wireless data link to a transceiver unit  153  (not shown) or  154  (not shown) or a handheld control unit  9 B (not shown) has wired data link to converter unit  155  (not shown). The transceiver unit  153  or  154  (not shown) is internally connected to the microprocessor unit  140  (not shown) within the device. The apparatus in the extremely large obese version maneuvers by means of wheel units  6 A (not shown),  6 B,  6 D,  6 E,  6 F, and  6 G and steerable and reversible drive wheel unit  6 C. A rigid deflection screen units [ 170 C,  170 D and  170 E] (not shown) deflects debris that in the travel path of the apparatus. Debris or small/large depressions in the floor that might effect the stability of the apparatus are detected by deflection screen unit [ 170 C,  170 D and  170 E] (not shown) and causes the deflection screen alarm unit  171  (not shown) to be activated and alerts the operator of the apparatus to take evasive action to protect the user of the apparatus. The internal power source unit  131  (not shown) and electronics control unit  132  (not shown) are located in inner portion of lower trunk unit  1  with access through compartment door units  12 B and  12 C. If the user is lying on the bed he/she can grasp handle units  16 A and  16 B. The user places his/her feet into a footrest compartment unit  137 . A retractable support platform unit  271  extends outward when the user is being lifted/lowered by the apparatus. When the user is in the fully upright position the retractable support platform unit  271  retracts, once standing the user can switch to handle units  16 C (not shown) and  16 D if desired. Arm pad units  18 A and  18 B provide cushioning. Also a chest protector pad unit  10  is mounted on the upper trunk unit  2  for the user&#39;s comfort. Within lifting arm unit  8 A is gear rack unit  82  which allows for movement of lifting arm unit  8 A. Similarly, lifting arm unit  8 B has gear rack unit  83  (not shown), Retractable fin unit  4 E shows the pivotal length leg units  84 C and  84 D attached to retractable fin unit  4 E along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 B and pivotal joint unit  130 B. Adjustable side dispensing cable delivery tube units  24 C and  24 D provide winch cables  161 A and  161 B (not shown), which then are connected to sling/harness unit  220  (not shown). Sling seat unit  201  provides necessary support to the user that has little or no ability to provide necessary self induced lifting ability. Sling seat unit  201  is connected to pivotal arm unit  202  which in turn is connected to connector arm unit  203 . This is then connected to screw nut unit  204  that is then rotated by drive motor unit  206  (not shown) which in turn is connected to screw unit  205  (not shown). The position of screw nut unit  204  determines the height of sling seat unit. 
         [0092]    Referring to  FIG. 2   a  which shows the front external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the obese user configuration. The front external view of the lower trunk unit  1  shows the footrest platform unit  19  retractable support platform unit  271 , power source unit  131  (not shown), removable and cleanable cavity liner unit  270  and electronics unit  132  (not shown) of the invention and padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B. Adjustable padded knee support units  7 A and  7 B are shown on the front view. 
         [0093]    Referring to  FIG. 2   b  which shows the left external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the obese user configuration. The left side view shows opening  21 A for the variable geometry stability fin unit  4 A (not shown). 
         [0094]    Referring to  FIG. 2   c  which shows the right external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the obese user configuration. The right side view shows opening  21 B for the variable geometry stability fin unit  4 B (not shown). 
         [0095]    Referring to  FIG. 2   d  which shows the rear external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the obese user configuration. The rear external view of the lower trunk unit  1  shows the drive wheel opening  21 C for the variable geometry stability fin unit  4 C (not shown). 
         [0096]    Referring to  FIG. 2   e  which shows the left side external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The left side view shows opening  5 A well, similar to a landing gear wheel well (shown in  FIG. 5E ) for the retractable outrigger stability fin unit  4 D (not shown) and opening  15 A for the expanding horizontal drive unit  85 A (not shown). 
         [0097]    Referring to  FIG. 2   f,  which shows the right side external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The right side view shows opening  5 B well, similar to a landing gear wheel well (shown in  FIG. 5G ) for the retractable outrigger stability fin unit  4 E (not shown) and opening  15 B for the expanding horizontal drive unit  85 B (not shown) for the retractable outrigger stability fin unit  4 E well, similar to a landing gear wheel well. A sling seat unit  201  provides necessary support to the user that has little or no ability to provide necessary self induced lifting ability. Sling seat unit  201  is connected to pivotal arm unit  202  which in turn is connected to connector arm unit  203 . This is then connected to screw nut unit  204  that is then rotated by drive motor unit  206  (not shown) which in turn is connected to screw unit  205  (not shown). The position of screw nut unit  204  determines the height of sling seat unit. 
         [0098]    Referring to  FIG. 2   g  which shows the front external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The front external view of the lower trunk unit  1  shows removable and cleanable cavity liner unit  270 , footrest platform unit  19  and retractable support platform unit  271  along with wheel units  6 D and  6 E, which allows for greater stability during raising/lowering the user from seated to risen position of the invention and the padded leg constraint panel units  13 A and  13 B. Adjustable padded knee support units  7 A and  7 B are shown on the front view. 
         [0099]    Referring to  FIG. 2   h  which shows the rear external view of the lower trunk unit  1  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The rear external view of the lower trunk unit  1  shows the access door units  12 A and  12 B, along with drive wheel opening  21 C. 
         [0100]      FIG. 3   a  shows the top external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the obese user configuration. The top external view of the upper trunk unit  2  shows the chest protector pad unit  10 , chin/head padded support unit  11  and fixed front output dispensing delivery tube units  24 B and  24 C. 
         [0101]      FIG. 3   b  shows the left side external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the obese user configuration. The left side view shows fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 A, extender bar unit  14 A along with the chest protector pad unit  10 . Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0102]      FIG. 3   c  shows the front external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the obese user configuration. The front external view of the upper trunk unit  2  shows the chest protector pad unit  10 , chin/head padded support unit  11 , chin/head lift unit  3  and fixed front output dispensing delivery tube units  24 A and  24 B. Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0103]      FIG. 3   d  shows the right side external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the obese user configuration. The left side view shows fixed front output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 B, extender bar unit  14 B along with the chest protector pad unit  10 . Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0104]      FIG. 3   e  shows the top external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The top external view of the upper trunk unit  2  shows the chest protector pad unit  10 , chin/head padded support unit  11  and variable side output dispensing delivery tube units  24 C and  24 D. 
         [0105]      FIG. 3   f  shows the left external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The left side view shows variable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 C, extender bar unit  14 A along with the chest protector pad unit  10 . Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0106]      FIG. 3   g  shows the front external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The front external view of the upper trunk unit  2  shows the chest protector pad unit  10 , chin/head padded support unit  11 , chin/head lift unit  3  and variable side output dispensing delivery tube units  24 C and  24 D. Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0107]      FIG. 3   h  shows the left external view of the upper trunk unit  2  for the extremely large obese user configuration. The left side view shows variable side output dispensing delivery tube unit  24 D, chin/head padded support unit  11 , chin/head lift unit  3  along with the chest protector pad unit  10 . The left side view shows extender bar unit  14 B. Chin/head padded support unit  11  and chin/head lift unit  3  can be removed and the remaining depression in upper trunk unit  2  can be covered by a cover plate unit  162  (not shown). 
         [0108]    In  FIG. 4   a  which shows the top external view of the chin/head padded support unit  11 . 
         [0109]    In  FIG. 4   b  which shows the left side external view of the chin/head lift unit  3  shows and chin/head padded support unit  11 . 
         [0110]    In  FIG. 4   c  which shows the front side external view of the chin/head lift unit  3  shows and chin/head padded support unit  11 . 
         [0111]    In  FIG. 4   d  which shows the right side external views of the chin/head lift unit  3  shows and chin/head padded support unit  11 . 
         [0112]      FIG. 5   a  is the left side external view of the variable geometry stability fin unit for the obese user configuration. The left side view of stability fin unit shows the fixed vertical length leg unit  28  along with expanding horizontal leg units  35 ,  36  and  37  and expanding diagonal leg units  32 ,  33  and  34  which in  FIG. 5   a  is denoted as unit  4 A. Reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  26  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) which allows reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  27  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) for stability unit  4 A fin to expand or contract at a predetermined rate as dictated by the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor. Included is connection unit  39 , which holds wheel unit  6 A. Connection plate unit  29  is used to secure stability fin unit  4 A to the roof of lower trunk unit  1  and connection plate unit  30  is used to secure stability fin unit  4 A to the floor of the lower trunk unit  1 . Connector pin unit  31  allows for the rotation of expanding diagonal leg unit  32  along with connector pin unit  38 . 
         [0113]      FIG. 5   b  is the right side external view of the variable geometry stability fin unit for the obese user configuration. The right side view stability unit fin has a fixed length leg unit  42  along with expanding horizontal leg units  49 ,  50  and  51 , and expanding diagonal leg units  46 ,  47  and  48  which in  FIG. 5   b  is denoted as unit  4 B. Reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  40  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) and reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  41  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) which allows unit  4 B to expand or contract at a predetermined rate as dictated by the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor. Included is connection unit  53 , which holds wheel unit  6 B. Connection plate unit  43  is used to secure stability fin unit  4 B to the roof of lower trunk unit  1  and connection plate unit  44  is used to secure stability fin unit  4 B to the floor of the lower trunk unit  1 . Connector pin unit  45  allows for the rotation of expanding diagonal leg unit  46  along with connector pin unit  52 . 
         [0114]      FIG. 5   c  is the rear external view of the variable geometry stability fin units for the obese user configuration. The rear view of stability fin unit shows stability unit fin which has a fixed length leg unit  56  along with expanding horizontal leg units  63 ,  64  and  65  which in  FIG. 5C  is denoted as unit  4 C and expanding diagonal leg units  60 ,  61  and  62  which in  FIG. 5   c  is denoted as unit  4 C. Reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  54  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) and reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  55  with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) which allows unit  4 C to expand or contract at a predetermined rate as dictated by the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor. Included is connection unit  67 , which holds wheel unit  6 C. Connection plate unit  57  is used to secure stability fin unit  4 C to the roof of lower trunk unit  1  and connection plate unit  58  is used to secure stability fin  4 C to the floor of the lower trunk unit  1 . Connector pin unit  59  allows for the rotation of expanding diagonal leg unit  60  along with connector pin unit  66 . Attached to stability fin unit  4 C is drive/steering mechanism unit  20 . 
         [0115]      FIG. 5   d  is the external view of the left side retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration. The left side view of the fin unit  40 A shows the pivotal length leg units  84 A and  84 B along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 A, wheel unit  6 F and pivotal joint unit  130 A which is attached to lower trunk unit  1 . 
         [0116]      FIG. 5   e  is the overall view of the left side retractable stability fin unit and is denoted as  4 D for the right side for the extremely large obese user configuration. The side view of the retractable  4 D fin unit shows the pivotal length leg units  84 A and  84 B attached to retractable fin unit  40 A with hinge unit  134 A along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 A, wheel unit  6 F and pivotal joint unit  130 A which is denoted as unit  4 A. Reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  126 A with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) which allows reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  126 A with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly for retractable stability fin unit  4 D to expand or contract at a predetermined rate as dictated by the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor. Included is connection unit  129 A to attach assembly  128 A to the lower trunk unit  1 . 
         [0117]      FIG. 5   f  is the external view of the right side retractable stability fin unit for the extremely large obese user configuration. The right side view of the fin unit  40 B fin unit shows the pivotal length leg units  84 C and  84 D along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 B, wheel unit  6 G and pivotal joint unit  130 B which is attached to lower trunk unit  1 . 
         [0118]      FIG. 5   g  is the overall view of the retractable stability fin unit denoted as  4 E for the right side for the extremely large obese user configuration. The side view of the retractable  4 E fin unit shows the pivotal length leg units  84 C and  84 D attached to retractable fin unit  40 B with hinge unit  134 B along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 B, wheel unit  6 G and pivotal joint unit  130 B which is denoted as unit  4 E. Reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  126 B with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly (not shown) which allows reversible DC motor with gearhead unit  126 B with coupling gears, screw nuts and threaded rod assembly for retractable stability fin unit  4 E to expand or contract at a predetermined rate as dictated by the apparatus&#39;s microprocessor. Included is connection unit  129 B to attach assembly  128 A to the lower trunk unit  1 . 
         [0119]      FIG. 5   h  is the external, bottom view of the lower trunk unit  1  with the retractable stability fin units  4 D and  4 E fully extended for the extremely large obese user configuration. Retractable stability fin unit  4 D shows the pivotal length leg units  84 A and  84 B attached to retractable fin unit  40 A with hinge unit  134 A along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 A and pivotal joint unit  130 A. While retractable fin unit  4 E shows the pivotal length leg units  84 C and  84 D with hinge unit  134 B along with expanding horizontal drive unit  85 B and pivotal joint unit  130 B. Stability fin unit  4 C is drive/steering mechanism for the apparatus and wheel unit  6 C is attached to the end of stability fin unit  4 C with wheel housing unit  72 . Also there are wheel units  6 D,  6 E,  6 F and  6 G to provide additional balance and better weight distribution to the apparatus. 
         [0120]    In  FIG. 6   a  is shown the outer left side external side view of wheel unit  6 A. Wheel unit  6 A consists of wheel  69  and wheel housing unit  68 . Wheel housing unit  68  is connected to connection unit  39 . Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 A and deflection screen alarm unit  171   
         [0121]    In  FIG. 6   b  is shown the outer right side external side view of wheel unit  6 B. Wheel housing unit  68  is connected to connection unit  39 . Similarly, wheel unit  6 B consists of wheel  71  and wheel housing unit  70 . Wheel housing unit  70  is connected to connection unit  53 . Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 B and deflection screen alarm unit  171 . 
         [0122]    In  FIG. 6   c  is shown the rear external side view of drive wheel unit  6 C. Drive wheel unit  6 C consist of drive wheel  75  and wheel housing unit  72 . Wheel housing unit  72  is connected to connection unit  67 , which in turn is connected to drive/steering mechanism unit  20 . Within drive/steering mechanism unit  20  are the drive unit  73  and  74  which consists of a reversible DC motor gearhead linkage assembly (not shown) drive unit (not shown) and steering unit  74 , which consists a reversible DC motor gearhead linkage assembly drive unit (not shown). Appropriate control signals from the microprocessor operate these two DC motor units. Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 C and deflection screen alarm unit  171   
         [0123]    In  FIG. 6   d  is shown the inner left side external side view of wheel unit  6 D. Wheel unit  6 D consists of wheel  156  and wheel housing unit  157 . Wheel housing unit  157  is connected to connection unit  160  (not shown). Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 D and deflection screen alarm unit  171   
         [0124]    In  FIG. 6   e  is shown the inner right side external side view of wheel unit  6 E. Wheel housing unit  159  is connected to connection unit  161 . Similarly, wheel unit  6 E consists of wheel  158  and wheel housing unit  159 . Wheel housing unit  159  is connected to connection unit  161 . Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 E and deflection screen alarm unit  171 . 
         [0125]    In  FIG. 6   f  is shown the movable left side external side view of wheel unit  6 F. Wheel unit  6 F consists of wheel  221  and wheel housing unit  220 . Wheel housing unit  221  is connected to connection unit  224  (not shown). Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 F and deflection screen alarm unit  171   
         [0126]    In  FIG. 6   g  is shown the movable right side external side view of wheel unit  6 G. Wheel housing unit  223  is connected to connection unit  222 . Similarly, wheel unit  6 G consists of wheel  223  and wheel housing unit  222 . Wheel housing unit  222  is connected to connection unit  235  (not shown). Also included are rigid deflection screen unit  170 G and deflection screen alarm unit  171 . 
         [0127]      FIG. 7   a  shows the external front view of left side adjustable knee support unit  7 A. Knee support unit  7 A consists of the horizontal adjustment plate unit  76 , the vertical adjustment plate unit  77  and knee support pad  78 . Horizontal adjustment plate unit  76  is attached to lower trunk unit  1  by means of fasteners (not shown), vertical adjustment plate unit  77  is attached to horizontal adjustment plate unit  76  by means of fasteners (not shown) and knee support pad  78  is permanently attached to the vertical adjustment plate unit  77  but is allowed to move in the slots by pins secured by a flange unit on each pin within adjustment plate unit  78  (not shown) and is allowed to move in the slots by pins secured by a flange unit on each pin within vertical plate unit  77  (not shown) as shown in  FIG. 7   a.    
         [0128]      FIG. 7   b  shows the external right side front view of adjustable knee support unit  7 B. Knee support unit  7 B consists of the horizontal adjustment plate unit  79 , the vertical adjustment plate unit  80  and knee support pad  81 . Horizontal adjustment plate unit  79  is attached to lower trunk unit  1  by means of fasteners {not shown}, vertical adjustment plate unit  80  is attached to horizontal adjustment plate unit  79  by means of fasteners (not shown) and knee support pad  81  is permanently attached to the vertical adjustment plate unit  80  but is allowed to move in the slots by pins secured by a flange unit on each pin within adjustment plate unit  80  (not shown) and is allowed to move in the slots by pins secured by a flange unit on each pin within vertical plate unit  80  (not shown) as shown in  FIG. 7   b.    
         [0129]    In  FIG. 8   a  is shown the external view of the inside lifting arm unit  8 A. The inside view of lifting arm unit  8 A shows the overall lifting arm unit  8 A and the gear rack unit  82  in which the extender connector rod unit  86  (not shown) from the extender bar unit  14 A (not shown) is mated. Drive gear unit  88  (see  FIG. 9 ) engages gear rack unit  82  and moves lifting arm unit  8 A to assist the patient to be raised to a standing position and extender connector rod unit  86  {see  FIG. 9   a } allows the lifting arm unit  8 A to move up and down. 
         [0130]    In  FIG. 8   b  is shown the external view of the outside lifting arm units  8 A. 
         [0131]    In  FIG. 8   c  is shown the external view of the inside lifting arm unit  8 B. The inside view of lifting arm unit  8 B shows the overall lifting arm unit  8 B and the gear rack unit  83  in which the extender connector rod unit  87  from the extender bar unit  14 B is mated. Drive gear unit  95  (see  FIG. 9 ) engages gear rack unit  83  and moves lifting arm unit  8 B to assist the patient to be raised to a standing position and extender connector rod unit  87  (see  FIG. 9   b ) allows the lifting arm unit  8 B to move up and down. 
         [0132]    In  FIG. 8   d  is shown the external views of the outside lifting arm unit  8 B. 
         [0133]      FIG. 9   a  is the side view of extender bar unit  14 A shows extender connector rod unit  86  which is connected to reversible DC motor unit  91  which is connected to lifting arm unit  8 A (not shown). Drive gear unit  88  is connected to a shaft unit  232  {not shown} which in turn is connected to a reversible DC motor unit  90  that moves extender arm unit  8 A (not shown) back and forth. Gear rack unit  93  is connected to sleeve unit  89 , which is the outside covering of extender bar unit  14 A. It has a rectangular end and is threaded. Reversible DC motor unit  94  engages gear rack unit  93  that allows the extender bar unit  14 A to move in and out of upper trunk unit  2 . Motor unit  92  rotates lifting arm unit  8 A (not shown). Motor units  94  and  92  are fastened to the wall of upper trunk unit  2  to hold extender bar unit  14 A in place. 
         [0134]      FIG. 9   b  shows the side view of extender bar unit  14 B shows extender connector rod unit  87  which is connected to reversible DC motor unit  98  which is connected to lifting arm unit  8 B (not shown). It has a rectangular end and is threaded. Drive gear unit  95  is connected to a shaft (not shown) which in turn is connected to a reversible DC motor unit  97  that moves extender arm unit  8 B (not shown) back and forth. Gear rack unit  100  is connected to sleeve unit  96 , which is the outside covering of extender bar unit  14 B. Reversible DC motor unit  101  engages gear rack unit  100  that allows the extender bar unit  14 B to move in and out of middle trunk unit  2 . Motor unit  99  rotates lifting arm  8 B (not shown). Motor units  99  and  101  are fastened to the wall of upper trunk unit  2  to hold extender bar unit  14 B in place. 
         [0135]    In  FIG. 10  is shown external view of the chin/head holder unit  11 , chin/head lift unit  3 , lift mechanism unit  24  and reversible DC motor unit  133 . DC motor unit  133  is coupled to lift mechanism unit  24  which in turns raise/lowers chin/head lift unit  3  and in turn raises/lowers chin/head holder unit  11 . 
         [0136]    In  FIG. 11  shows side mounted sling winch unit configuration for the obsess version of the apparatus and is denoted as  13 A. Attachment plate units  106 A and  106 B and reversible DC motor unit  104 , reel units  102 A which in turn is connected to shaft unit  105  at one end and drive shaft unit  103  at the other end and reel unit  102 B is connected to shaft unit  103 . Winch cable  161 A is attached to reel unit  102 A and winch cable  161 B is attached to reel unit  102 B. Winch cable  161 A is connected to coupler unit  91  which is connected to adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 A shown in  FIG. 1   a.  Drive gear unit  88  is connected to a shaft unit  234  (not shown) within the adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 A which in turn is connected to a reversible DC motor unit  90  that moves adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 A back and forth. Likewise, Winch cable  161 B is connected to coupler unit  98  which is connected to adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 B shown in  FIG. 1   a.  Drive gear unit  95  is connected to a shaft {not shown} within the adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 B which in turn is connected to a reversible DC motor unit  97  that moves adjustable side output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 B back and forth 
         [0137]    In  FIG. 12  shows front mounted sling winch unit configuration of the extreme large obese version of the apparatus as  13 A. Attachment plate units  106 A and  106 B and reversible DC motor unit  104 , reel units  102 A which in turn is connected to shaft  105  at one end and drive shaft  103  at the other end and reel unit  102 B is connected to shaft unit  103 . Winch cable  161 A is attached to reel unit  102 A and winch cable  161 B is attached to reel unit  102 B. Winch cable  161 A is connected to the fixed front mounted output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 C shown in  FIG. 1   b.  Likewise, Winch cable  161 B is connected to a fixed front mounted output dispensing cable delivery tube unit  24 D shown in  FIG. 1   b.    
         [0138]      FIG. 13   a  shows the external view of the wireless handheld control unit  9 A for obese version of the apparatus. The apparatus switch unit  107  turns the power on or off to the apparatus, switch unit  108  which extends or retracts the variable stability fin units  4 A,  4 B and  4 C, switch unit  109  raises and lowers the upper trunk unit  2 , switch unit  110  raises and lowers chin/head padded support unit  11 , switch unit  111  controls the in and out movements of extender bar units  14 A and  14 B, switch unit  112  controls the in and out movements of lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B and switch unit  113  rotates the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B in the vertical or horizontal plane or somewhere in between. Switch unit  115  turns on the power to the winch unit  13  and switch allows the winch reel unit  114  to reel in or out the cord/wire as required. Switch unit  116  provides power for support platform unit  271  and switch unit  280  controls the power for extending/retracting side panel units  13 A and  13 B of the apparatus. Joystick unit  117  controls the forward/reverse motion and right and left turns as required set and the speed of the apparatus. 
         [0139]      FIG. 13   b  shows the external view of the wireless handheld control unit  9 B for extreme large obese version of the apparatus. The apparatus switch unit  107  turns the power on or off to the apparatus, switch unit  108  which extends or retracts the variable stability fin units A, B and C, switch unit  109  raises and lowers the upper trunk unit  2 , switch unit  110  raises and lowers chin/head padded support unit  11 , switch unit  111  controls the in and out movements of extender bar units  14 A and  14 B, switch unit  112  controls the in and out movements of lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B and switch unit  113  rotates the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B in the vertical or horizontal plane or somewhere in between. Switch unit  115  turns on the power to the winch unit  13  and switch allows the winch reel unit  114  to reel in or out the cord/wire as required. Switch unit  116  provides power for support platform unit  271  and switch unit  280  controls the power for extending/retracting side panel units  13 A and  13 B of the apparatus. Joystick unit  117  controls the forward/reverse motion and right and left turns as required set and the speed of the apparatus. Switch unit  240  is to engage or disengage sling seat unit  201  and switch unit  241  is to raise or lower sling seat unit  201 . 
         [0140]      FIG. 13   c  shows the external view of the wired handheld control unit  9 C for the obese version of the apparatus. The apparatus switch unit  107  turns the power on or off to the apparatus, switch unit  108  which extends or retracts the variable stability fin units A, B and C, switch  109  raises and lowers the upper trunk unit  2 , switch unit  110  raises and lowers chin/head holder unit  11 , switch unit  111  controls the in and out movements of extender bar units  14 A and  14 B, switch unit  112  controls the in and out movements of lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B and switch unit  113  rotates the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B in the vertical or horizontal plane or somewhere in between. Switch unit  115  turns on the power to the winch unit  13  and switch allows the winch reel unit  114  to reel in or out the cord/wire as required. Switch unit  116  provides power for drive motor for support platform unit  271  and switch unit  280  controls the power for extending/retracting side panel units  13 A and  13 B of the apparatus. Joystick unit  117  controls the forward/reverse motion and right and left turns as required set and the speed of the apparatus. Monitor unit  157  monitors the status of the onboard apparatus power source. 
         [0141]      FIG. 13   d  shows the external view of the wired handheld control unit  9 D for the extreme large obese version of the apparatus. The apparatus switch unit  107  turns the power on or off to the apparatus, switch unit  108  which extends or retracts the variable stability fin units A, B and C, switch  109  raises and lowers the upper trunk unit  2 , switch unit  110  raises and lowers chin/head holder unit  11 , switch unit  111  controls the in and out movements of extender bar units  14 A and  14 B, switch unit  112  controls the in and out movements of lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B and switch unit  113  rotates the lifting arm units  8 A and  8 B in the vertical or horizontal plane or somewhere in between. Switch unit  115  turns on the power to the winch unit  13  and switch allows the winch reel unit  114  to reel in or out the cord/wire as required. Switch unit  116  provides power for drive motor for support platform unit  271  and switch unit  280  controls the power for extending/retracting side panel units  13 A and  13 B of the apparatus. Joystick unit  117  controls the forward/reverse motion and right and left turns as required set and the speed of the apparatus. Monitor unit  157  monitors the status of the onboard apparatus power source. Switch unit  240  is to engage or disengage sling seat unit  201  and switch unit  241  is to raise or lower sling seat unit  201 . 
         [0142]    As shown in  FIG. 14   a  for the obese version of the apparatus, an IR transmitter unit comprises of the following components: (1) Switch input units  107  . . .  117  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , (6) Filter unit  121 , (7) Transmitter processor unit  122 , and (8) Transmitter/Light source unit  123 . Digital data is sent to the combiner unit  120 , the output is transferred to the Transmitter Processor unit  121  and is put into data packets with error correction algorithms, the output activates the transmitter/light source unit  123 . 
         [0143]    As shown in  FIG. 14   b  for the extreme large obese version of the apparatus, an IR transmitter unit comprises of the following components: (1) Switch input units  107  . . .  117 ,  240 ,  241  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , (6) Filter unit  121 , (7) Transmitter processor unit  122 , and (8) Transmitter/Light source unit  123 . Digital data is sent to the combiner unit  120 , the output is transferred to the Transmitter Processor unit  121  and is put into data packets with error correction algorithms, the output activates the transmitter/light source unit  123 . 
         [0144]    In  FIG. 15   a  for the obese version of the apparatus, a RF transmitter unit comprises of the following components: Switch input units  107  . . .  117  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , (6) Filter unit  121 , (7) Transmitter unit  125 , and (8) Signal processor/modulator unit  124 . The transmitter unit  125  provides the modulation of the RF signal waveform. On the transmit side, the transmitter unit  125  accepts outgoing data messages from the signal processor/modulator  125 , continuous phase modulates the digital information, up-converts the frequency to RF frequencies, performs frequency hopping, and provides RF power amplification for output to the Transmitter&#39;s antenna. 
         [0145]    In  FIG. 15   b  for the extreme large obese version of the apparatus, a RF transmitter unit comprises of the following components: Switch input units  107  . . .  117 ,  240 ,  241  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , (6) Filter unit  121 , (7) Transmitter unit  125 , and (8) Signal processor/modulator unit  124 . The transmitter unit  125  provides the modulation of the RF signal waveform. On the transmit side, the transmitter unit  125  accepts outgoing data messages from the signal processor/modulator  125 , continuous phase modulates the digital information, up-converts the frequency to RF frequencies, performs frequency hopping, and provides RF power amplification for output to the Transmitter&#39;s antenna. 
         [0146]      FIG. 16   a  for the obese version of the apparatus, a wired version of the apparatus switch input units  107  . . .  117  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by some other unit such as the microprocessor  140  (not shown). 
         [0147]      FIG. 16   b  for the extreme large obese version of the apparatus, a wired version of the apparatus switch input units  107  . . .  117 ,  240 ,  241  and  280 , (2) Encoder unit  118 , (3) Joystick input unit  117 , (4) 2 Channel A/D Converter unit  119 , (5) Combiner unit  120 , processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by some other unit such as the microprocessor  140  (not shown). 
         [0148]    In  FIG. 17   a  shows a block diagram of the electronic configuration for the obese version of the invention. It has a receiver unit  153  or  154  depending if the wireless data is sent by IR or RF. For the IR mode, which includes a light detector unit  153 , (2) Receiver processor unit  139 , and (4) Input/output interface unit  138 . The receiver light detector unit  153  detects light energy, and the output is sent to the receiver processor unit  139  to be analyzed for a predetermined time period to detect presence of data and correct the data from any errors that might have been introduced during the transmission of the data. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by microprocessor unit  140  or by the remote computer unit  501  (not shown). For the RF mode, the RF receiver unit  154  accepts RF energy inputs, rejects signals not of interest, down-converts, dehops, amplifies, filters, phase detects, and digitizes the message for output to the signal processor unit  139 . The signal processor performs preamble and message data processing, the data is analyzed for a predetermined time period to detect presence of data and correct the data from any errors that might have been introduced during the transmission of the data. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by some other unit such as the microprocessor  140  or by the remote computer  501  (not shown). The microprocessor  140  has a executable program that directs the functions of the RF receiver  154 . This program provides control of the RF receiver unit  154 , processing of data packets for reception, input data from switch(s)/joystick activation(s), system time, and built-in test and fault detection. The Microprocessor unit  140  controls the various motors within the apparatus. Programmable rheostat units  129 ,  130 ,  131 , 132 ,  301 ,  302 ,  303 ,  304 ,  305  and  306  control the speed and direction of reversible DC motor units  133 ,  134 ,  145 ,  146 ,  147 ,  148 ,  149 ,  150 ,  151 ,  152 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314 ,  315 ,  316  and  317 . Motor units  145 ,  146  and  147  are used for Stability Fin units A, B and C; drive wheel motor unit  151  provides for speed of the apparatus and drive wheel motor unit  152  provides the drive for steering of the apparatus. Chin/head support movement is controlled by motor unit  134 , upper trunk movement by motor unit  133 , winch motor unit  155 , lift arm A motor unit  312  and lift arm B motor unit  313 , extender rod A motor unit  316  and extender rod B motor unit  317 , and rotate lift arm A motor unit  312  and rotate lift arm B motor unit  313 . Knee pads are controlled by drive motor units  148  and  149  and side panel units are controlled by drive motor units  310  and  311 . Drive motor unit  150  controls support platform unit  271 . 
         [0149]    In  FIG. 17   b  shows a block diagram of the electronic configuration for the extremely large obese version of the apparatus. It has a receiver unit  153  or  154  depending if the wireless data is sent by IR or RF. For the IR mode, which includes a light detector unit  153 , (2) Receiver processor unit  139 , and (4) Input/output interface unit  138 . The receiver light detector unit  153  detects light energy, and the output is sent to the receiver processor unit  139  to be analyzed for a predetermined time period to detect presence of data and correct the data from any errors that might have been introduced during the transmission of the data. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by microprocessor unit  140  or by the remote computer unit  501  (not shown). For the RF mode, the RF receiver unit  154  accepts RF energy inputs, rejects signals not of interest, down-converts, dehops, amplifies, filters, phase detects, and digitizes the message for output to the signal processor unit  139 . The signal processor performs preamble and message data processing, the data is analyzed for a predetermined time period to detect presence of data and correct the data from any errors that might have been introduced during the transmission of the data. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by some other unit such as the microprocessor  140  or by the remote computer  501  (not shown). The microprocessor  140  has a executable program that directs the functions of the RF receiver  154 . This program provides control of the RF receiver unit  154 , processing of data packets for reception, input data from switch(s)/joystick activation(s), system time, and built-in test and fault detection. The Microprocessor unit  140  controls the various motors within the apparatus. Programmable rheostat units  129 ,  130 ,  131 , 132 ,  255 ,  256 ,  301 ,  302 ,  303 ,  304 ,  305  and  306  control the speed and direction of reversible DC motor units  133 ,  134 ,  145 ,  146 ,  147 ,  148 ,  149 ,  150 ,  151 ,  152 ,  255 ,  256 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314 ,  315 ,  316  and  317 . Motor units  145 ,  146  and  147  are used for Stability Fin units A, B and C; drive wheel motor unit  151  provides for speed of the apparatus and drive wheel motor unit  152  provides the drive for steering of the apparatus. Chin/head support movement is controlled by motor unit  134 , upper trunk movement by motor unit  133 , winch motor unit  155 , lift arm A motor unit  312  and lift arm B motor unit  313 , extender rod A motor unit  316  and extender rod B motor unit  317 , and rotate lift arm A motor unit  312  and rotate lift arm B motor unit  313 . Knee pads are controlled by drive motor units  148  and  149  and side panel units are controlled by drive motor units  310  and  311 . Drive motor unit  150  controls support platform unit  271 . Sling seat unit  220  is engaged by drive motor unit  250  and lower/raised by drive motor unit  251 . 
         [0150]      FIG. 18   a  shows a block diagram of the electronic configuration in the wired of the invention for the obese version. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by microprocessor unit  140  or by the remote computer unit  501  (not shown). The Microprocessor  140  controls the various motors within the invention. The Microprocessor unit  140  controls the various motors within the apparatus. Programmable rheostat units  129 ,  130 ,  131 , 132 ,  301 ,  302 ,  303 ,  304 ,  305  and  306  control the speed and direction of reversible DC motor units  133 ,  134 ,  145 ,  146 ,  147 ,  148 ,  149 ,  150 ,  151 ,  152 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314 ,  315 ,  316  and  317 . Motor units  145 ,  146  and  147  are used for Stability Fin units A, B and C; drive wheel motor unit  151  provides for speed of the apparatus and drive wheel motor unit  152  provides the drive for steering of the apparatus. Chin/head support movement is controlled by motor unit  134 , upper trunk movement by motor unit  133 , winch motor unit  155 , lift arm A motor unit  312  and lift arm B motor unit  313 , extender rod A motor unit  316  and extender rod B motor unit  317 , and rotate lift arm A motor unit  312  and rotate lift arm B motor unit  313 . Knee pads are controlled by drive motor units  148  and  149  and side panel units are controlled by drive motor units  310  and  311 . Drive motor unit  150  controls support platform unit  271 . 
         [0151]      FIG. 18   b  shows a block diagram of the electronic configuration in the wired of the invention for the extremely large obese version. The processed data is sent to the input/output interface unit  138  for use by microprocessor unit  140  or by the remote computer unit  501  (not shown). The Microprocessor  140  controls the various motors within the apparatus. Programmable rheostat units  129 ,  130 ,  131 , 132 ,  255 ,  256 ,  301 ,  302 ,  303 ,  304 ,  305  and  306  control the speed and direction of reversible DC motor units  133 ,  134 ,  145 ,  146 ,  147 ,  148 ,  149 ,  150 ,  151 ,  152 ,  255 ,  256 ,  310 ,  311 ,  312 ,  313 ,  314 ,  315 ,  316  and  317 . Motor units  145 ,  146  and  147  are used for Stability Fin units A, B and C; drive wheel motor unit  151  provides for speed of the apparatus and drive wheel motor unit  152  provides the drive for steering of the apparatus. Chin/head support movement is controlled by motor unit  134 , upper trunk movement by motor unit  133 , winch motor unit  155 , lift arm A motor unit  312  and lift arm B motor unit  313 , extender rod A motor unit  316  and extender rod B motor unit  317 , and rotate lift arm A motor unit  312  and rotate lift arm B motor unit  313 . Knee pads are controlled by drive motor units  148  and  149  and side panel units are controlled by drive motor units  310  and  311 . Drive motor unit  150  controls support platform unit  271 . Sling seat unit  220  is engaged by drive motor unit  250  and lower/raised by drive motor unit  251 . 
         [0152]    All RF and IR transmissions are subject to noise, interference and fading. Most short-range RF and IR wireless data communications use some form of packet protocol to automatically assure information is received correctly at the correct destination. A packet generally includes a preamble, a start symbol, routing instruct, packet ID, message segment, error correct bits, and other information (if required). Various correction schemes can be employed to minimize transmission errors. To counter this effect or areas were where wireless transmissions are forbidden a wired configuration is implemented in the invention. 
         [0153]    In describing the invention, reference has been made to a preferred embodiment and illustrative advantages of the invention. Those skilled in the art, however, and familiar with the instant disclosure of the subject invention, may recognize that numerous other modifications, variations, and adaptations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. With these modifications, variations and adaptations can be applied to the various units within the apparatus.