University of South Florida

Ryan Faris Smith

Mario Alves Simoes

Arlin James Beechy

David James Demaree

A device for enabling a wheelchair user to enter and exit the wheelchair includes a stabilizing frame. The stabilizing frame has two slide rails to which a base plate is movingly attached. An electric motor drives a leadscrew, causing the base plate to move along the slide rails. A telescopic column is vertically mounted onto the base plate. The seat assembly, including handlebars and a seat platform, is rotationally attached to the top of the telescopic column. The telescopic column is extended and collapsed by a linear actuator, raising and lowering the seat assembly. A stationary non-rotational rod is vertically mounted onto the telescopic column. When a user sitting on the seat platform exerts a moment force on the stationary rod, the seat assembly rotates about the stationary rod. A locking mechanism prevents the seat assembly from rotating when the user is transferring to or from the seat platform.

Growing community of inventors

Lutz, FL, United States of America

Ryan Faris Smith