Wheelchair lift

Abstract

A wheelchair lift having a logic module which provides several interlocks that promote proper operation is described. The logic module may be programmed to enable efficient user interface and to compensate for variations in lift operation parameters. In one embodiment, the wheelchair lift has an arm geometry which requires a lower peak force for operation.

1 . A wheelchair lift comprising:
 a frame connected to a vehicle;   a mounting structure coupled to the frame;   at least one electric actuator operatively connected to the mounting structure; and   a platform connected to the mounting structure, said mounting structure and said at least one electric actuator cooperate to move the platform into one of a stowed, floor or ground position;   wherein the electric actuator provides variable speed control of the platform movement when raising or lowering the platform.   
     
     
         2 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 1 , wherein the electric actuator comprises electrical characteristics which are used to implement interlocks into the lift without requiring additional sensors. 
     
     
         3 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 2 , wherein one electrical characteristic comprises an out-of-range amperage condition. 
     
     
         4 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 3 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies an anti-crushing interlock. 
     
     
         5 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 3 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies an anti-jacking interlock. 
     
     
         6 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 3 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies a platform occupied interlock. 
     
     
         7 . A wheelchair lift comprising:
 a frame connected to a vehicle;   a mounting structure coupled to the frame;   at least one electric actuator operatively connected to the mounting structure, said at least one electric actuator having one or more integrated sensors;   a platform connected to the mounting structure, said mounting structure and said at least one electric actuator cooperate to move the platform into one of a stowed, floor or ground position; and   a logic module ( 200 ) configured to receive feedback from the one or more integrated sensors of the electric actuator for determining a position of the wheelchair lift.   
     
     
         8 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 7 , wherein the electric actuator comprises electrical characteristics which are used to implement interlocks into the lift without requiring additional sensors. 
     
     
         9 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 8 , wherein one electrical characteristic comprises an out-of-range amperage condition. 
     
     
         10 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 9 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies an anti-crushing interlock. 
     
     
         11 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 9 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies an anti-jacking interlock. 
     
     
         12 . The wheelchair lift according to  claim 9 , wherein the out-of-range amperage condition identifies a platform occupied interlock.