Hinged platform type wheelchair lift for vehicles - has spring energy storage unit to store energy when hinged flap is lowered and return it to system when flap is raised

摘要

The lift has a hinged flap structure (1) carrying a load platform (5) that is pivoted and constrained to remain horizontal when the wheelchair is raised on lowered. An electric motor driven tongue unit (3) with a screw transmission controls the speed of ascent and descent of the flap and provides a self-holding force. Coupled to the flap is an energy storage unit such as a pneumatic spring (2). When the flap structure is lowered energy deriving from the weight of the flap structure is stored in the spring and is fed back into the system when the flap is raised. ADVANTAGE - Reduced energy requirement and load on drive.