1. A system (200) for adjustable floor level lifting seat in a tricycle (100), the system (200) comprising: an input unit (202) adapted to receive a seat adjustment command from a user operated switch (204) mounted on the tricycle (100); an input conditioning unit (208), operatively coupled to the input unit (202), adapted to validate, filter, and convert the received seat adjustment command into executable control signals; and a processing unit (210) operatively coupled to the input conditioning unit (208), characterized that the processing unit (210) is configured to: control a seat assembly (104) integrated within a frame (102) of the tricycle (100), the seat assembly (104) comprising a lateral sliding mechanism (106) and a vertical lifting mechanism (108) including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof; actuate the lateral sliding mechanism (106) to translate the seat assembly (104) outwardly from a riding position toward a side access position in response to the seat adjustment command; actuate, upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism (108) to lower the seat assembly (104) to substantially ground level; permit boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance; elevate the seat assembly (104) vertically to a predetermined riding height after the user is seated; and translate the seat assembly (104) laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame (102) of the tricycle (100).

2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an actuation unit (212) adapted to actuate the lateral sliding mechanism (106) and the vertical lifting mechanism (108).

3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a power supply unit (214) adapted to supply operational power to the processing unit (210).

4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a feedback unit (216) installed with a position sensor, height sensor, load sensor, limit switch, or a combination thereof adapted to detect lateral position and vertical height of the seat assembly (104) and provide positional signals to the processing unit (210).

5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a user profile management unit (218) adapted to store user-specific parameters selected from a height, a weight, a mobility data, or a combination thereof, wherein the user profile management unit (218) is adapted to enable the processing unit (210) to automatically determine the predetermined riding height based on the stored user-specific parameters.

6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an alert unit (220) adapted to generate alerts selected from an audible alert, visual indication, wireless notification during seat movement, or a combination thereof, upon detection of a malfunction.

7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a manual override unit (222) configured to permit mechanical adjustment of the seat assembly (104) in the event of electrical failure, hydraulic failure, pneumatic failure, or a combination thereof.

8. A method (400) for adjustable floor level lifting seat in a tricycle (100), the method (400) comprising: controlling a seat assembly (104) integrated within a frame (102) of the tricycle (100), the seat assembly (104) comprising a lateral sliding mechanism (106) and a vertical lifting mechanism (108) including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof; actuating the lateral sliding mechanism (106) to translate the seat assembly (104) outwardly from a riding position toward a side access position in response to the seat adjustment command; actuating upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism (108) to lower the seat assembly (104) to substantially ground level; and permitting boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance.

9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a step of elevating the seat assembly (104) vertically to a predetermined riding height after the user is seated.

10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a step of translating the seat assembly (104) laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame (102) of the tricycle (100). Date: May 13, 2026 Place: Noida Nainsi Rastogi Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372) Agent for the Applicant

Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to adaptive seating mechanisms and particularly to system and method for adjustable floor level lifting seat.
Description of Related Art
[002] Individuals with physical impairments often face serious difficulty during entry and exit from personal mobility vehicles such as tricycles. Conventional tricycles generally include a fixed seat positioned at a height above ground level. This seat height requires physical strength, balance, and external assistance for access. Many users with lower limb weakness, paralysis, joint disorders, or age-related mobility limitations experience discomfort, risk of fall, and loss of independence during such access.
[003] Various accessibility solutions exist in the transportation domain. Some vehicles incorporate ramps, foldable steps, retractable platforms, or externally mounted lift assemblies. Hydraulic lift mechanisms and powered seat systems appear in certain automotive and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Aftermarket modifications additionally provide detachable platforms or manually adjustable seat arrangements intended to assist entry and exit. In certain cases, powered actuators enable vertical seat movement through electrical control switches.
[004] Despite such developments, existing solutions exhibit multiple limitations. Most systems target larger vehicles and do not suit compact personal tricycles. Many mechanisms require substantial structural modification, high installation cost, or complex maintenance. Several systems lack integration within the vehicle frame and rely on bulky external attachments.
[005] In numerous cases, the seat does not reach ground level, or the mechanism demands physical effort or assistance from another person. These deficiencies reduce practicality, affordability, safety, and independent usability for physically impaired individuals.
[006] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced system and method for adjustable floor level lifting seat that can administer the aforementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat. The system comprising an input unit adapted to receive a seat adjustment command from a user operated switch mounted on the tricycle. The system further comprising an input conditioning unit, operatively coupled to the input unit, adapted to validate, filter, and convert the received seat adjustment command into executable control signals. The system further comprising a processing unit operatively coupled to the input conditioning unit. The processing unit is configured to control a seat assembly integrated within a frame of the tricycle, the seat assembly comprising a lateral sliding mechanism and a vertical lifting mechanism including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof; actuate the lateral sliding mechanism to translate the seat assembly outwardly from a riding position toward a side access position in response to the seat adjustment command; actuate, upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism to lower the seat assembly to substantially ground level; permit boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance; elevate the seat assembly vertically to a predetermined riding height after the user is seated; and translate the seat assembly laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame of the tricycle.
[008] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method for adjustable floor level lifting seat. The method comprising steps of controlling the seat assembly integrated within the frame of the tricycle, the seat assembly comprising the lateral sliding mechanism and the vertical lifting mechanism including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof; actuating the lateral sliding mechanism to translate the seat assembly outwardly from the riding position toward the side access position in response to the seat adjustment command; actuating, upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism to lower the seat assembly to substantially ground level; permitting boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance; elevating the seat assembly vertically to the predetermined riding height after the user is seated; and translate the seat assembly laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame of the tricycle.
[009] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat that enables independent boarding and disembarking of physically impaired users without requirement of external assistance, thereby enhancing personal autonomy and dignity.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat that provides floor level seat access that significantly reduces physical strain, fall risk, and discomfort associated with elevated fixed seating arrangements.
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat that ensures smooth and controlled seat movement through coordinated lateral translation and hydraulic and/or pneumatic vertical actuation, thereby improving user safety and operational reliability.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat that supports personalized seat height adjustment based on stored user parameters such as height, weight, mobility needs, or combination thereof, thereby enhancing comfort and ergonomic suitability.
[0014] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat that offers integrated and compact design within the tricycle frame, thereby avoiding bulky external attachments and reducing structural complexity, installation cost, and maintenance requirements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0016] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a tricycle, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a system for adjustable floor level lifting seat, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a processing unit of the system for adjustable floor level lifting seat, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0019] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method for adjustable floor level lifting seat, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] As used herein, the term “user” may refer to any individual who operates, controls, interacts with, or benefits from the disclosed system and method for adjustable floor level lifting seat. The user may include, but is not limited to, a physically impaired individual, mobility-restricted person, elderly person, temporarily injured person, caregiver, attendant, authorized operator, and so forth.
[0022] The user may be an occupant of the seat during riding operation or may be an individual initiating seat adjustment commands through a manual control interface or a remote communication interface. The term “user” is intended to be interpreted broadly to encompass any person engaging with the system for controlling, monitoring, adjusting, supervising, or facilitating seat movement operations.
[0023] Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any category of user interacting with the disclosed system, including known, related, foreseeable, and/or later-developed user classifications within the field of mobility assistance technologies.
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of a tricycle 100 adapted to facilitate accessible mobility for physically impaired users. The tricycle 100 may comprise a frame 102 structurally supporting a seat assembly 104. The seat assembly 104 may be operatively coupled to a lateral sliding mechanism 106 and a vertical lifting mechanism 108. The coordinated operation of the lateral sliding mechanism 106 and the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may enable controlled outward translation and floor level lowering of the seat assembly 104. Thus, permitting safe and independent boarding and disembarking. The structural integration of these mechanisms within the frame 102 may provide stability, load distribution, and controlled motion during operation.
[0025] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102 may provide primary structural support for the tricycle 100, including the seat assembly 104 comprising front steering assembly, rear wheel axle assembly, and so forth. The frame 102 may include reinforced mounting brackets and actuator housing regions to accommodate the lateral sliding mechanism 106 and the vertical lifting mechanism 108. The frame 102 may distribute static and dynamic loads generated during seat translation and vertical elevation to maintain structural stability and prevent imbalance during boarding operations. The frame 102 may be constructed of material such as, but not limited to, a tubular steel chassis, aluminium alloy frame, reinforced modular structure, composite load-bearing assembly, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for construction of the frame 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the frame 102, the lateral sliding mechanism 106, and the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may be constructed using lightweight structural materials including high-strength aluminium alloys, reinforced composite structures, tubular steel assemblies, weight-optimized load-bearing brackets, and so forth. The structural configuration may be adapted to maintain load-bearing stability while minimizing overall vehicle weight, thereby enhancing manoeuvrability, energy efficiency, and operational performance of the tricycle 100.
[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, the seat assembly 104 may support the user in both riding and access configurations. The seat assembly 104 may be mounted to the lateral sliding mechanism 106 to enable outward displacement from a central riding position. The seat assembly 104 may further couple to the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to enable controlled lowering to substantially ground level and subsequent elevation to a predetermined riding height. The seat assembly 104 may include structural reinforcement elements to withstand vertical load during lifting and user transfer. The seat assembly 104 may be, but not limited to, an ergonomic mobility seat, cushioned seating unit, adjustable backrest assembly, armrest-supported seating structure, or reinforced occupant support module, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the seat assembly 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the lateral sliding mechanism 106 may enable horizontal displacement of the seat assembly 104 from a riding position aligned with the frame 102 to a side access position extending outward from the tricycle 100. The mechanism 106 may include guide rails, bearing blocks, locking elements, drive components, and so forth, adapted to maintain alignment and resist torsional forces during translation. The lateral sliding mechanism 106 may ensure smooth and controlled displacement under occupant load. The lateral sliding mechanism 106 may be, but not limited to, a linear rail system, telescopic guide assembly, rack-and-pinion slide arrangement, motorized carriage assembly, or roller-guided track mechanism, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the lateral sliding mechanism 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0029] In another embodiment of the present invention, the lateral sliding mechanism 106 may be adapted to translate the seat assembly 104 toward a predetermined lateral side selected from a left side, a right side, or a configurable side orientation, and so forth. The direction of lateral displacement may be predefined during manufacturing or may be configurable based on user preference, structural layout of the tricycle 100, accessibility constraints, and so forth. The processing unit 210 may be adapted to control directional parameters of the lateral sliding mechanism 106 to ensure safe outward translation toward the selected side access position.
[0030] In another embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may comprise a motorized vertical track assembly including guided linear tracks, drive belts, lead screws, rack-and-pinion arrangements, and so forth adapted to lower and elevate the seat assembly 104 in a controlled vertical path.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may enable vertical displacement of the seat assembly 104 relative to the frame 102. The mechanism 108 may extend to elevate the seat assembly 104 to the riding height and retract to lower the seat assembly 104 toward ground level. The vertical lifting mechanism 108 may include load-bearing pistons, stabilizing guide elements, base plates, and pressure-regulated chambers to maintain vertical alignment and controlled motion. The mechanism 108 may resist lateral sway during operation and may support the weight of the user during elevation and lowering. The vertical lifting mechanism 108 may be, but not limited to, a hydraulic cylinder assembly, pneumatic actuator, electro-hydraulic actuator, telescopic lift column, scissor lift mechanism, or screw-driven lifting column, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the vertical lifting mechanism 108, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0032] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may comprise a hybrid dual-layer actuation architecture including both a hydraulic actuator and a pneumatic actuator operatively coupled within a coordinated control framework. The hydraulic actuator may be adapted to provide primary load-bearing lifting force, whereas the pneumatic actuator may be adapted to provide motion damping, cushioning effect, shock absorption, and controlled descent regulation, and so forth.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a system 200 for adjustable floor level lifting seat in the tricycle 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 200 may be a robust, adaptive, and user-centric seat actuation control architecture configured to intelligently receive seat adjustment commands, condition input signals, dynamically control lateral and vertical seat displacement, and ensure safe and reliable boarding and disembarking operations with minimal manual effort.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 200 may incorporate non-limiting hardware components to enhance the processing speed and efficiency such that the system 200 may comprise an input unit 202, a user operated switch 204, a user interface 206, an input conditioning unit 208, a processing unit 210, an actuation unit 212, a power supply unit 214, a feedback unit 216, a profile management unit 218, an alert unit 220, and a manual override unit 222. In an embodiment of the present invention, the hardware components of the system 200 may be integrated with computer-executable instructions for overcoming the challenges and the limitations of the existing systems.
[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, the input unit 202 may be adapted to receive a seat adjustment command from the user operated switch 204 mounted on the tricycle 100 and/or from the user interface 206. The input unit 202 may be configured to serve as a primary command reception interface between the user and the system 200. The input unit 202 may be adapted to detect user-initiated control signals corresponding to outward translation, inward translation, lowering, elevation, stop command, profile-based automatic adjustment, and so forth.
[0036] The input unit 202 may comprise electrical signal receivers, wireless communication interfaces, signal recognition circuitry, embedded microcontroller-based input ports, and so forth. The input unit 202 may be adapted to receive command inputs through wired switches, push buttons, toggle switches, capacitive touch interfaces, Bluetooth-enabled devices, mobile application interfaces, remote communication units, and so forth. In another embodiment, the input unit 202 may be adapted to communicate with a smartphone-based user interface 206 via a wireless communication protocol to receive seat positioning commands.
[0037] The input unit 202 may further be adapted to identify the type of command input, validate command initiation, and forward the received signals to the input conditioning unit 208 for preprocessing. The input unit 202 may be adapted to support single-step manual operation as well as automated profile-based activation based on stored user parameters, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of command reception architecture implemented within the input unit 202, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, and so forth.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the input unit 202 may be adapted to execute a single-command automatic boarding sequence upon activation of the user operated switch 204 or a control input via the user interface 206. The single-command sequence may initiate outward lateral translation of the seat assembly 104, subsequent vertical lowering to ground level, and position stabilization without requiring multiple user inputs, and so forth. The processing unit 210 may be adapted to execute the automatic sequence in a predetermined synchronized order to simplify operation for physically impaired users.
[0039] The input unit 202 may be, but not limited to, electrical signal receivers, wired input interfaces, wireless communication units, embedded microcontroller-based input ports, signal acquisition circuitry, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the input unit 202, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the user operated switch 204 may be adapted to initiate a seat adjustment command for controlling movement of the seat assembly 104. The user operated switch 204 may be mounted on an accessible portion of the tricycle 100 to ensure convenient reachability by a physically impaired user during boarding, disembarking, or seated operation. The user operated switch 204 may be configured to generate electrical input signals corresponding to outward translation, inward translation, lowering, elevation, stop command, and so forth.
[0041] The user operated switch 204 may be adapted to operate through low-voltage signalling to ensure user safety and reliable actuation. In another embodiment, the user operated switch 204 may include illuminated indicators, tactile feedback features, weather-resistant housing, ergonomic grip design, and so forth to enhance usability and operational durability.
[0042] The user operated switch 204 may transmit generated input signals to the input unit 202 for further processing. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of manually actuated command interface implemented as the user operated switch 204, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, and so forth.
[0043] The user operated switch 204 may be, but not limited to, a push-button switch, toggle switch, rocker switch, multi-position selector switch, pressure-sensitive switch, capacitive touch switch, emergency stop switch, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the user operated switch 204, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention, the user interface 206 may be adapted to provide an interactive control platform for initiating seat adjustment commands associated with the seat assembly 104. The user interface 206 may be configured to enable the physically impaired user to control lateral translation and vertical lifting operations of the seat assembly 104 in a convenient and accessible manner. The user interface 206 may generate command inputs corresponding to outward translation, inward translation, lowering, elevation, stop command, profile-based automatic adjustment, and so forth.
[0045] The user interface 206 may be, but not limited to, a mobile application interface, touchscreen display interface, wireless control interface, Bluetooth-enabled device interface, remote communication interface, voice-controlled interface, and so forth. In another embodiment, the user interface 206 may be installed on a smartphone operatively connected to the system 200 through a communication module integrated within the tricycle 100. The communication module may support wireless communication protocols including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, near-field communication, cellular connectivity, and so forth.
[0046] The user interface 206 may further be adapted to display seat position status, movement progress, alert notifications, battery status, user profile settings, and so forth. The user interface 206 may transmit generated command signals to the input unit 202 for further processing by the input conditioning unit 208 and the processing unit 210. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of interactive control interface implemented as the user interface 206, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, and so forth.
[0047] The user interface 206 may be, but not limited to, a mobile application interface, touchscreen display interface, wireless control interface, Bluetooth-enabled device interface, remote communication interface, voice-controlled interface, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the user interface 206, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. In another embodiment of the present invention, the user interface 206 may be installed in a smartphone (not shown) that may be remotely connected to the tricycle 100 via a communication unit (not shown).
[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, the input conditioning unit 208 may be operatively coupled to the input unit 202. The input conditioning unit 208 may be adapted to preprocess the received seat adjustment command into conditioned control signals suitable for execution by the processing unit 210. The preprocessing may be, but not limited to, signal validation, noise filtering, voltage stabilization, debounce logic processing, signal normalization, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of preprocessing of command signals, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0049] The input conditioning unit 208 may be, but not limited to, signal validation circuitry, noise filtering units, voltage regulation circuits, debounce logic processors, signal normalization units, analogue-to-digital converters, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the input conditioning unit 208, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0050] In an embodiment of the present invention, the conditioned control signals may be transmitted to the processing unit 210 operatively coupled to the input conditioning unit 208 and a memory storing executable instructions. The processing unit 210 may be configured to control the seat assembly 104 integrated within the frame 102 of the tricycle 100. The seat assembly 104 may comprise the lateral sliding mechanism 106 and the vertical lifting mechanism 108 including the hydraulic actuator, the pneumatic actuator, and so forth. In an embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lifting mechanism 108 may be motorized and may comprise an electrically driven hydraulic pump assembly, an electrically driven pneumatic compressor unit, a motor-coupled screw drive assembly, or a motor-actuated lift column, and so forth. The vertical lifting mechanism 108 may be adapted to convert electrical energy supplied by the power supply unit 214 into controlled mechanical lifting motion through a motor-driven actuation architecture. The motorized configuration may ensure precise elevation control, reduced manual effort, and synchronized movement coordination under the control of the processing unit 210.
[0051] The processing unit 210 may actuate outward translation of the seat assembly 104 through the lateral sliding mechanism 106 toward a side access position upon receipt of a valid seat adjustment command. Upon confirmation of reaching the side access position, the processing unit 210 may actuate the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to lower the seat assembly 104 to substantially ground level. The processing unit 210 may subsequently elevate the seat assembly 104 to the predetermined riding height after user seating and may command inward lateral translation to restore the riding configuration.
[0052] The processing unit 210 may be adapted to synchronize actuation parameters of the lateral sliding mechanism 106 and the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to achieve smoother, jerk-free, and ergonomically optimized seat movement during lowering and elevation operations.
[0053] The processing unit 210 may be, but not limited to, a microcontroller, microprocessor, embedded control unit, programmable logic controller, digital signal processor, system-on-chip architecture, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the processing unit 210, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The processing unit 210 may further be explained in detail in conjunction with FIG. 3.
[0054] In an embodiment of the present invention, the actuation unit 212 may be adapted to execute control commands issued by the processing unit 210. The actuation unit 212 may be, but not limited to, motor driver circuits, hydraulic pump assemblies, pneumatic control valves, solenoid drivers, electromechanical actuator interfaces, relay-based drive systems, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the actuation unit 212, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0055] In an embodiment of the present invention, the power supply unit 214 may be adapted to provide regulated electrical power to the processing unit 210, the actuation unit 212, the feedback unit 216, the profile management unit 218, the alert unit 220, and the manual override unit 222. In another embodiment of the present invention, the power supply unit 214 may further comprise an integrated solar charging module including photovoltaic panels mounted on an upper surface of the tricycle 100, battery charge controllers, energy regulation circuitry, and so forth. The solar charging module may be adapted to supplement or recharge onboard battery systems, thereby reducing dependence on external electrical charging infrastructure and enhancing operational sustainability. The power supply unit 214 may be, but not limited to, rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion battery packs, sealed lead-acid batteries, solar charging units, DC supply units, regulated power distribution circuits, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the power supply unit 214, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0056] In an embodiment of the present invention, the feedback unit 216 may be adapted to detect positional parameters associated with lateral displacement and vertical height of the seat assembly 104. The positional parameters may be, but not limited to, lateral position coordinates, vertical elevation levels, load distribution parameters, limit detection signals, and so forth. The feedback unit 216 may be, but not limited to, position sensors, height sensors, load sensors, limit switches, proximity sensors, encoder assemblies, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the feedback unit 216, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, the user profile management unit 218 may store user-specific parameters such as height, weight, mobility data, preferred seating configuration, and so forth. The processing unit 210 may retrieve stored parameters to determine a predetermined riding height suitable for the user. The user profile management unit 218 may be, but not limited to, EEPROM units, flash memory units, cloud-connected storage interfaces, onboard memory controllers, removable storage units, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the user profile management unit 218, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0058] In an embodiment of the present invention, the alert unit 220 may be adapted to generate alerts during seat movement or upon detection of a malfunction. The alerts may be, but not limited to, audible alerts, visual indicators, vibration notifications, wireless notifications, and so forth. The alert unit 220 may enhance operational safety during transition between riding and ground-level positions. The alert unit 220 may be, but not limited to, audible buzzers, visual indicator lights, vibration units, wireless notification units, display-based alert systems, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the alert unit 220, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0059] In an embodiment of the present invention, the manual override unit 222 may be adapted to permit mechanical adjustment of the seat assembly 104 in the event of electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic failure. In another embodiment of the present invention, the manual override unit 222 may further comprise an assisted mechanical support arrangement including counterbalance springs, gas struts, mechanical leverage multipliers, low-resistance gearing mechanisms, and so forth adapted to reduce the physical force required during manual seat adjustment. The assisted manual configuration may enable continued operability of the seat assembly 104 in the event of electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic failure while minimizing user strain. The manual override unit 222 may be, but not limited to, a mechanical release lever, hydraulic bypass valve, manual crank mechanism, emergency disengagement system, fail-safe mechanical linkage, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the manual override unit 222, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of the processing unit 210 of the system 200, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The processing unit 210 may comprise a command interpretation module 300, a lateral motion control module 302, a vertical lift control module 304, and a position verification module 306.
[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention, the command interpretation module 300 may be configured to receive conditioned seat adjustment signals from the input conditioning unit 208. The seat adjustment signals may represent commands including outward translation, lowering, elevation, return-to-ride positioning, stop command, and so forth. The command interpretation module 300 may be configured to decode the received signals to determine a desired seat operation. The command interpretation module 300 may be configured to generate corresponding internal control instructions and transmit the control instructions to the lateral motion control module 302 and the vertical lift control module 304.
[0062] In an embodiment of the present invention, the lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to receive control instructions from the command interpretation module 300. The lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to generate drive signals for actuating the lateral sliding mechanism 106. Upon receipt of an outward translation instruction, the lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to actuate the seat assembly 104 to move from a riding position toward a side access position. In an exemplary scenario, when the lateral motion control module 302 be configured to determine that the seat assembly 104 has reached the side access position, the lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to transmit the position confirmation signal to the position verification module 306. Further, upon receipt of an inward translation instruction, the lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to actuate the seat assembly 104 to return to the riding position within the frame 102 of the tricycle 100.
[0063] In an embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lift control module 304 may be configured to receive control instructions from the command interpretation module 300. The vertical lift control module 304 may be configured to actuate the vertical lifting mechanism 108 including the hydraulic actuator, the pneumatic actuator, and so forth. In an exemplary scenario, upon confirmation that the seat assembly 104 has reached the side access position, the vertical lift control module 304 may be configured to actuate the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to lower the seat assembly 104 to substantially ground level. Further, after user seating, the vertical lift control module 304 may be configured to actuate the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to elevate the seat assembly 104 to the predetermined riding height. The vertical lift control module 304 may be configured to regulate actuator extension and retraction to ensure smooth and controlled vertical displacement.
[0064] In an embodiment of the present invention, the vertical lift control module 304 and the lateral motion control module 302 may be configured to implement motion smoothing algorithms including acceleration ramp control, deceleration ramp control, variable speed modulation, load-adaptive torque regulation, jerk limitation profiles, and so forth. The processing unit 210 may dynamically adjust actuation parameters to ensure gradual start-stop transitions, vibration minimization, and enhanced user comfort during seat movement operations.
[0065] In an embodiment of the present invention, the position verification module 306 may be configured to receive positional and status signals from the feedback unit 216. The positional signals may represent lateral position data, vertical height data, load parameters, limit detection signals, and so forth. The position verification module 306 may be configured to determine whether the seat assembly 104 has reached the side access position prior to initiation of vertical lowering. Further, the position verification module 306 may be configured to determine whether ground-level position or predetermined riding height has been achieved prior to termination of vertical movement. The position verification module 306 may be configured to detect abnormal conditions including over-travel, excessive load, actuator malfunction, sensor irregularity, and so forth to generate the protective control signal. The protective control signal may halt further actuation and may activate the alert unit 220 or enable operation of the manual override unit 222.
[0066] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method 400 for adjustable floor level lifting seat, according to an embodiment of the present invention. At step 402, the system 200 may control the seat assembly 104 integrated within the frame 102 of the tricycle 100, the seat assembly 104 comprising the lateral sliding mechanism 106 and the vertical lifting mechanism 108 including the hydraulic actuator, the pneumatic actuator, and so forth.
[0067] At step 404, the system 200 may actuate the lateral sliding mechanism 106 to translate the seat assembly 104 outwardly from the riding position toward the side access position in response to the seat adjustment command.
[0068] At step 406, upon reaching the side access position, the system 200 may actuate the vertical lifting mechanism 108 to lower the seat assembly 104 to substantially ground level.
[0069] At step 408, the system 200 may permit boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance.
[0070] At step 410, the system 200 may elevate the seat assembly 104 vertically to the predetermined riding height after the user is seated. At step 412, the system 200 may translate the seat assembly 104 laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame 102 of the tricycle 100. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A system (200) for adjustable floor level lifting seat in a tricycle (100), the system (200) comprising:
an input unit (202) adapted to receive a seat adjustment command from a user operated switch (204) mounted on the tricycle (100);
an input conditioning unit (208), operatively coupled to the input unit (202), adapted to validate, filter, and convert the received seat adjustment command into executable control signals; and
a processing unit (210) operatively coupled to the input conditioning unit (208), characterized that the processing unit (210) is configured to:
control a seat assembly (104) integrated within a frame (102) of the tricycle (100), the seat assembly (104) comprising a lateral sliding mechanism (106) and a vertical lifting mechanism (108) including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof;
actuate the lateral sliding mechanism (106) to translate the seat assembly (104) outwardly from a riding position toward a side access position in response to the seat adjustment command;
actuate, upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism (108) to lower the seat assembly (104) to substantially ground level;
permit boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance;
elevate the seat assembly (104) vertically to a predetermined riding height after the user is seated; and
translate the seat assembly (104) laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame (102) of the tricycle (100).
2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an actuation unit (212) adapted to actuate the lateral sliding mechanism (106) and the vertical lifting mechanism (108).
3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a power supply unit (214) adapted to supply operational power to the processing unit (210).
4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a feedback unit (216) installed with a position sensor, height sensor, load sensor, limit switch, or a combination thereof adapted to detect lateral position and vertical height of the seat assembly (104) and provide positional signals to the processing unit (210).
5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a user profile management unit (218) adapted to store user-specific parameters selected from a height, a weight, a mobility data, or a combination thereof, wherein the user profile management unit (218) is adapted to enable the processing unit (210) to automatically determine the predetermined riding height based on the stored user-specific parameters.
6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising an alert unit (220) adapted to generate alerts selected from an audible alert, visual indication, wireless notification during seat movement, or a combination thereof, upon detection of a malfunction.
7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a manual override unit (222) configured to permit mechanical adjustment of the seat assembly (104) in the event of electrical failure, hydraulic failure, pneumatic failure, or a combination thereof.
8. A method (400) for adjustable floor level lifting seat in a tricycle (100), the method (400) comprising:
controlling a seat assembly (104) integrated within a frame (102) of the tricycle (100), the seat assembly (104) comprising a lateral sliding mechanism (106) and a vertical lifting mechanism (108) including a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, or a combination thereof;
actuating the lateral sliding mechanism (106) to translate the seat assembly (104) outwardly from a riding position toward a side access position in response to the seat adjustment command;
actuating upon reaching the side access position, the vertical lifting mechanism (108) to lower the seat assembly (104) to substantially ground level; and
permitting boarding of the physically impaired user at ground level without external assistance.
9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a step of elevating the seat assembly (104) vertically to a predetermined riding height after the user is seated.
10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, comprising a step of translating the seat assembly (104) laterally inwardly to the riding position within the frame (102) of the tricycle (100).

Date: May 13, 2026
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant