Suspension Technology for Enhanced Mobility and Ride Quality in Various Vehicles
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept leverages the core technology of wheelchair suspension to enhance mobility and ride quality in a wide range of vehicles, including cargo transportation systems, recreational vehicles, material handling devices, rescue vehicles, and agricultural vehicles.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent addressed the limitations of wheelchairs and scooters in traversing obstacles and providing independence to users. However, similar limitations exist in various other industries, where vehicles struggle to navigate rough terrain, resulting in reduced productivity, safety concerns, and decreased user satisfaction. The new inventive concept tackles these challenges by applying the suspension technology to a broader range of applications.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept involves the integration of a suspension system into various vehicles, allowing the wheels to move in a vertical direction relative to the frame. This enhances the vehicles' ability to traverse obstacles, improving ride quality and reducing the impact of bumps and vibrations on the cargo, passengers, or operators. The suspension system can be adapted to accommodate different vehicle types, sizes, and weights, ensuring a smooth and stable ride in diverse environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel application of the suspension technology to industries beyond wheelchairs and scooters. The inventive step lies in recognizing the potential of this technology to address similar challenges in other fields, thereby expanding its reach and impact.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include adjustable suspension systems, adaptive damping, or advanced materials for improved durability and performance. Variations could also involve integrating the suspension technology with other features, such as terrain-sensing systems or autonomous navigation, to further enhance the vehicles' capabilities.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including logistics, recreation, material handling, emergency services, and agriculture. By improving mobility and ride quality, this technology can increase productivity, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance user experience, making it an attractive solution for companies and organizations operating in these sectors.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61G5/10 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/04 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/042 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/043 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/06 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/1078 |
| A | A61 | A61G5/1089 |
| B | B60 | B60G2300/24 |
| Y | Y10 | Y10S180/907 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Mobility assistive devices and vehicle suspension systems, encompassing wheelchairs, transportation vehicles, and mechanical systems with wheel-mounted suspension mechanisms. Requires expertise in mechanical engineering, biomechanical design, and vehicle dynamics
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with 3-5 years experience in vehicle design, familiar with suspension technologies, adaptive mobility systems, and cross-industry mechanical adaptations. Capable of understanding load transfer, vibration mitigation, and mechanical coupling strategies
Obviousness Rationale
The PTD demonstrates a straightforward extension of the wheelchair suspension patent's core technical principles by applying the suspension mounting concept to diverse vehicle platforms. A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental suspension mechanism as universally applicable across vehicle types, with minimal technical adaptation required. The core innovation of allowing wheels vertical movement relative to a frame represents a transferable mechanical solution that solves similar mobility and ride quality challenges across different transportation contexts.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,470 |
|---|---|
| Title | Wheelchair suspension |
| Assignee(s) | INVACARE CORPORATION |