Powered Wheelchair Joystick Handles

摘要

One embodiment is a handle supporting a users hand having a large surface for the palm, a trough for the thumb, a protrusion between the thumb and first finger and flared edges to keep the hand from sliding. A support surface is coupled to the stem of a wheelchair joystick gimbal and is biased in forward driving. A second embodiment is a wheelchair joystick movable between forward and reverse positions while maintaining the same orientation relative to the user. A supporting surface is pivotally mounted to a gimbal stem fixed to the wheelchair. The handle pivots to remain in a neutral position with movement of the joystick. A bi-directional spring biases the handle toward a neutral position. A third embodiment comprises a pivot coupled to a gimbal stem and a cup coupled to the user. The assembly is completed by placing the cup over the pivot allowing for movement therebetween.

主权项

1. An ergonomic joystick handle comprising an upper surface that is contoured to the hand of a user, the upper surface having a protrusion adapted to be located between a thumb and fingers of a hand of a user, the upper surface further having upturned outer edges and a pair of support surfaces, one of the support surfaces adapted to support a thumb of a use and the other support surface adapted to support a palm of a hand of a user, both of the support surfaces having contoured troughs adapted to contact and distribute pressure over a maximal surface of the hand of a user.