US Patent:
20020064444, May 30, 2002
Inventors:
Craig Wunderly - Hackettstown NJ, US
Aman Siffeti - Livingston NJ, US
Christopher Hardy - Montclair NJ, US
Matthew Colello - Tranquility NJ, US
Richard Mahoney - Westmont NJ, US
Daniel Zuckerman - Bloomfield NJ, US
International Classification:
B66C023/00
Abstract:
This invention relates to an electromechanical arm and complementary accessories, which are mountable on a battery powered wheelchair, and adapted to grasp objects at low level and intermediate level reach areas of the personal environment of the operator. The device is designed for simplicity of operation and generally comprises a motor base having an electromechanical arm pivotally connected thereto. The electromechanical arm comprises lower arm, mid arm, and forearm components which are rotationally and pivotally interconnected and selectively rotated through the utilization of a controller which is preferably disposed upon the battery powered wheelchair. The complementary components include a variety of end-effectors (also called grippers or hands), with features that are task specific or provide for general manipulation of objects, other tools and means of holding tools, baskets, pouches, holders and other means of storing objects and tools that are easily accessible to the electromechanical arm, a variety of input devices that are tailored to the needs of the operator, the approach by which the input device is used to control the electromechanical arm, a sleeve for protection, aesthetics, and increased functionality (with pockets and other means of holding objects), other attachments to the electromechanical arm that expand its functionality, such as watches, jewelry, holders for cell phones and other electronic equipment, and mounting hardware for the electromechanical arm and associated components.