Power lift and tilt modules

Abstract

A modular actuator has a combination cam member and scissors mechanism in a compact unit that is capable of lifting heavy loads. A pull member is capable of controlling and combining two different mechanisms that travel at different rates through two ranges of motion. The cam member has a profile that is dimensioned and configured to maintain a constant range of motion.

1 . A modular actuator for moving a seat of a personal mobility vehicle through two ranges of motion comprising a first mechanism that operates to move the seat through a first one of the ranges of motion and a second mechanism that operates to move the seat through a second one of the ranges of motion.  
   
   
       2 . The actuator according to  claim 1  wherein the actuator is a lift module and the first mechanism is one or more cam members that are adapted to cooperate with one or more cam rollers and the second mechanism is a scissors mechanism.  
   
   
       3 . The actuator according to  claim 2  wherein the one or more cam members are dimensioned and configured to maintain a constant load throughout the first range of motion and a load consistent with the second range of motion.  
   
   
       4 . The actuator according to  claim 1  wherein the actuator is a tilt module and the first mechanism is one or more cam members that are adapted to cooperate with one or cam rollers and the second mechanism is one or more tilt members that are adapted to cooperate with one or more struts.  
   
   
       5 . The actuator according to  claim 4  wherein the cam member is dimensioned and configured to maintain a constant load throughout the first range of motion and a load consistent with the second range of motion.  
   
   
       6 . A modular actuator for moving a seat of a personal mobility vehicle through two ranges of motion comprising a first mechanism therein that operates to move the seat through a first one of the ranges of motion and a second mechanism that that operates to move the seat through a second one of the ranges of motion, the first and second mechanisms being within a compact unit.  
   
   
       7 . The actuator according to  claim 6  wherein the first and second mechanisms and other component parts thereof are integrated in such a manner so as not to be integrated with both the seat or a base of the personal mobility vehicle.  
   
   
       8 . The actuator according to  claim 6  wherein the actuator is self contained and readily attachable to existing personal mobility vehicles.