CONVERTIBLE VERSATILE CANE

Abstract

A convertible, multi-tasking cane and a method of using the cane is disclosed. The cane includes a tubular cane body defining an internal cavity, a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, and a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body. The handle is converts to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism. The cane further includes an umbrella, a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity and above the second end of the tubular cane body, and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body. The tubular insulating structure houses a plurality of electronic devices.

Description

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure is directed to a convertible, multi-functional cane.

Description of the Related Art

The “background” description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description which may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly or impliedly admitted as prior art against the present invention.

Walking canes are known to allow users to transfer some of their weight away from their legs and facilitate balancing. Walking canes, also often embodied as trekking poles, pilgrim's staffs, hiking poles, hiking sticks, climbing steps, supporting invalids and the like are used for a wide variety of purposes, such as clearing spider webs, parting thick bushes or grass obscuring a trail, providing support when going uphill or providing braking help when going downhill, serving as a balance point when crossing streams or rough terrain, ascertaining presence of obstacles in the trail; testing mud and puddles for depth, and the like. In the recent years, various features have been developed for the walking canes to address additional requirements of the users.

CN206560105U discloses an intelligent walking stick umbrella for two-in-one umbrella and crutch comprising a machine body, a skid-proof support mat, a lithium battery and a control button, the machine body is provided with the skid-proof supporting pad, the middle part of the machine body is provided with a control host. The intelligent walking stick provides an umbrella and a walking stick. The structure of this intelligent device, however, is distinct from the current invention, as it lacks features such as a standing chair, the umbrella being enclosed within the stick, or a microcontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller via Wi-Fi or cellular data.

CN208366352U discloses a guide device including a stick, that a blind user can use to detect a front barrier, which includes real-time broadcasting of current location information and traffic information. The guide device includes a processor, a camera, a distance measuring module, a receiver, and communicates with the blind user by a speaker. The guide device includes communications circuitry to connect sensed information to a remote management server. The structure of the guide device, however, is distinct from the current invention, as it lacks features such as a convertible versatile cane including a handle which can be converted to a standing chair and an umbrella enclosed within the stick. Additionally, the guiding device does not disclose a microcontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller via Wi-Fi or cellular data.

IN201921042943A discloses a method for content driven automatic retraction of a shade cover which uses machine learning/deep learning to predict the type of objects placed under the shade, and based on the type of objects identified, and based on a predicted weather forecast automatically opens/moves/closes the shade ac to protect the objects from unfavorable weather. However, the shade cover lacks features such as a convertible versatile cane including a handle which can be converted to a standing chair or an umbrella enclosed within the stick. Additionally, this reference does not disclose a microcontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller via Wi-Fi or cellular data.

US20140060598A1 discloses a walking stick chair including a main stick, a seat unit, a support unit, and a linking unit. The main stick includes an elongated rod body having opposite upper and lower ends, a hook-shaped handle portion connected to the upper end of the rod body, a foot portion connected to the lower end of the rod body, a resilient hook member disposed near the handle portion, and a plurality of angularly spaced-apart grooves formed in an outer surface of the rod body and extending in a longitudinal direction of the rod body. The structure of the walking stick chair, however, does not disclose features such as a standing chair or the umbrella being enclosed within the stick. On the contrary, in this reference, the umbrella is disposed outside and surrounding the main stick. Additionally, the walking stick chair does not disclose a microcontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller via wi-fi or cellular data.

“AgeGracefully Smart Umbrella Walking Stick (Essential Handle With Manual Alarm)” describes an integrated walking stick can be withdrawn when need to use it independently. The integrated walking stick includes high power energy saving integrated LED lights. The smart umbrella walking stick includes a 360-degree pivoting head that allows a wide range of pivoting strike angle, a USB charging cable, a UV protection canopy to cover the user from being exposed to harmful UV rays, a high-density fabric for fast water dispersion, and a steel ferrule tip for extra strength and durability. The structure of this smart umbrella walking stick, however, does not disclose features such as a standing chair or the umbrella being enclosed within the stick. Additionally, the smart umbrella walking stick does not disclose a microcontroller that can automatically extend the umbrella based on a weather report received by the microcontroller via wi-fi or cellular data.

Each of the aforementioned references suffers from one or more drawbacks, such as failure to provide multifunctionality of the cane, thereby hindering their adoption.

Accordingly, it is one object of the present disclosure to provide a multitasking multifunctional cane that is simple and compact with respect to construction, portable with respect to use, and user friendly. The multitasking multifunctional cane has a handle which is configured to convert to a seat when desired by the user, an umbrella that can be deployed from within the cane, and a camera unit configured to capture the surrounding and determine potential hazards based on the captured pictures.

SUMMARY

In an exemplary embodiment, a convertible multi-tasking cane is disclosed. The convertible multi-tasking cane includes a tubular cane body defining an internal cavity, a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, and a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body. The handle is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism. The convertible multi-tasking cane further includes an umbrella, a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity and above the second end of the tubular cane body, and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body. The tubular insulating structure houses a plurality of electronic devices.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method of using the convertible multi-tasking cane is disclosed. The method includes actuating an ON/OFF switch to turn ON the convertible multi-tasking cane, walking while holding a handle of the convertible multi-tasking cane, and sitting on a seat formed by unfolding the handle of the convertible multi-tasking cane when not walking. A base of the convertible multi-tasking cane is supported by a ground surface. The method further includes protecting, by an umbrella, a user from a rain shower or sunlight by actuating an umbrella release switch located on the convertible multi-tasking cane to extend an umbrella shaft through an opening defined at a center of the seat or the handle, causing a plurality of ribs connected to the umbrella shaft to extend upwards and out from the umbrella shaft, and unfurling a flexible sheet attached to the plurality of ribs.

In another exemplary embodiment, a convertible multi-tasking cane system is disclosed. The system includes a tubular cane body having an internal cavity, a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, and a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body. The handle is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism. The system further includes an umbrella having a folded configuration and an open configuration. In the folded configuration, an umbrella shaft is enclosed within the internal cavity, umbrella ribs are folded against the umbrella shaft, a rib support is located at a first position. In the open configuration, the umbrella shaft, the ribs, and the rib support extend through an opening in the handle and/or the seat, the ribs are extended away from the umbrella shaft by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees and the rib support is located at a second position. The first position is at a greater distance from an umbrella tip than the second position. The system further includes a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity and above the second end of the tubular cane body, and a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body. The tubular insulating structure houses a plurality of electronic devices including a microcontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, a WiFi unit, a Bluetooth unit, an MP3 player, a GPS receiver, a USB port, a camera, a radio, an earphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a power input port configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeable battery, and a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port. The microcontroller is operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LED display, the WiFi unit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the GPS receiver, the USB port, the camera, the radio, the earphone jack, the plurality of LED lights, the speaker, the rechargeable battery, and the micro SIM port. The microcontroller is configured to transmit and receive wireless communications through at least one of the WiFi unit, the Bluetooth unit, the GPS receiver, and a SIM card inserted in the micro SIM port.

The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of this disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1A shows a convertible multi-tasking cane with a handle, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 1B shows the convertible multi-tasking cane with the handle converted to a seat, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the convertible multi-tasking cane with the seat open, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of a cross-section of the convertible multi-tasking cane having an umbrella disposed therein, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2B is an exemplary illustration of an umbrella release mechanism provided in the convertible multi-tasking cane, in a) a retracted state, and b) a deployed state, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 2C is an exemplary illustration of the cross-section of the convertible multi-tasking cane showing the umbrella in deployed condition, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 3A is an exemplary illustration of a perspective view of a portion of the convertible multi-tasking cane, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 3B is a block diagram of an operating system of the convertible multi-tasking cane;

FIG. 4A is an exemplary flowchart of a method for deploying the umbrella, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 4B is an exemplary flowchart of a method for imaging the surrounding environment, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 5A is an exemplary flowchart of a method for identifying predators, according to certain embodiments;

FIG. 5B is an exemplary flowchart of a method for geolocating the convertible multi-tasking cane, according to certain embodiments; and

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a non-limiting example of details of computing hardware used in the computing system, according to certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as used herein, the words “a,” “an” and the like generally carry a meaning of “one or more,” unless stated otherwise.

Furthermore, the terms “approximately,” “approximate,” “about,” and similar terms generally refer to ranges that include the identified value within a margin of 20%, 10%, or preferably 5%, and any values therebetween.

Aspects of this disclosure are directed to a convertible multi-tasking cane and methods for using the convertible multi-tasking cane. The convertible multi-tasking cane described herein may be usable by various groups of people including including the elderly, the handicapped, policemen, security personnel, sports personnel, backpackers, pilgrims, and people waiting in queues. The convertible multi-tasking cane of the present disclosure addresses general emergency, safety, communication, seating, and protection requirements of the user.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a convertible multi-tasking cane 100 is illustrated, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. For the purpose of convenience, the convertible multi-tasking cane 100 is hereinafter referred to as “the cane 100” in the present disclosure. The cane 100 includes a tubular cane body 102 defining an internal cavity 104 (shown with a cut-section A-A′) extending between a first end 106 and a second end 108 thereof. In a non-limiting example, the tubular cane body 102 may be made from wood, stainless steel, aluminum alloys, or a combination thereof. A handle 110 is attached to the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102 and a base support 112 is attached to the second end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. The handle 110 may be designed ergonomically for the comfort of a user using the cane 100. In one aspect, the base support 112 may include a disc 114 and an indenting structure 116, such as a hemispherical protrusion or a spike. The indenting structure 116 may help stably position the cane 100 on a ground surface. In another aspect, the base support 112 may be made of rubber, cork, silicone, or a combination thereof.

The handle 110 is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism 118. According to an aspect, the handle 110 includes a central plate 120 located on the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102, such that a plane of the central plate 120 is perpendicular to a length axis “L” of the tubular cane body 102. In an example, the central plate 120 may be embodied as a rectangular or a circular plate and may be rigidly attached to the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102, such that the central plate 120 extends laterally on either sides or radially with respect to the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102. In a non-limiting example, the central plate 120 may be made of a metal, alloys, wood, reinforced plastic, or a combination thereof. A support plate 122 may be used to attach, for example, fasten or weld, the central plate 120 to the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102. Further, the handle 110 includes a first rectangular metallic frame 124 connected to a first side 126 of the central plate 120 via a first hinge 128 and a second rectangular metallic frame 130 connected to a second side 132 of the central plate 120 via a second hinge 134, where the second side 132 is opposite to the first side 126. FIG. 1A shows a folded condition of the handle 110 in which the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 are perpendicular to the plane of the central plate 120. The first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 may be moved towards each other to constitute a hand grip to allow the user to hold the handle 110. In a free state, that is when not held by the user, the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 may remain perpendicular to the central plate 120, where a gap is defined therebetween, as shown in FIG. 1A. Alternately, the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 may fold against the central plate 120 for storage.

FIG. 1B illustrates an unfolded configuration of the handle 110. The first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 are pivotally moved away from each other, with respect to the first hinge 128 and the second hinge 134, respectively, until the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 are in the plane of the central plate 120, thereby defining a seat 111. In one aspect, the movement of the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 with respect to the central plate 120 may be allowed upon actuation of the seat release mechanism 118. The cane 100 may include a button (not shown) configured to release the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 from the folded position and retain the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 in the plane of the central plate when the handle 110 is unfolded. In a non-limiting example, multiple clasping members may be actuated by the button to retain the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 in the unfolded condition of the handle 110. As such, the button and the multiple clasping members may constitute the seat release mechanism 118. Multiple other embodiments are contemplated to achieve the functions of the seat release mechanism 118 described herein.

FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of the cane 100, in which the handle 110 is converted to the seat 111. The handle 110 defines an opening 136 at a center of the central plate 120, and a flap (not shown) may be provided to cover the opening 136 to prevent dust from entering into the internal cavity 104. The first rectangular metallic frame 124 includes a first inner frame edge 138 and a first outer frame edge 140, where the first inner frame edge 138 is coupled to the first side 126 of the central plate 120 via the first hinge 128. The second rectangular metallic frame 130 includes a second inner frame edge 142 and a second outer frame edge 144, where the second inner frame edge 142 is coupled to the second side 132 of the central plate 120 via the second hinge 134. In the folded condition of the handle 110, that is when the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and the second rectangular metallic frame 130 are perpendicular to the central plate 120, the first outer frame edge 140 and the second outer frame edge 144 are located proximal to each other to form a hand grip. To obtain the seat configuration, the first outer frame edge 140 and the second outer frame edge 144 are moved in a direction away from each other until both the outer edges are in plane with respect to the central plate 120. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the handle 110 may include a first flexible covering 146 attached to the first rectangular metallic frame 124 and a second flexible covering 148 attached to the second rectangular metallic frame 130. In a non-limiting example, each of the first flexible covering 146 and the second flexible covering 148 may be made of a fabric material filled with foam to provide comfortable seating. In another non-limiting example, each of the first flexible covering 146 and the second flexible covering 148 may be made of upholstery textile fabrics, such as, but not limited to, natural leather, artificial leather, polyester, rayon, wool, nylon, canvas, cotton, silk, linen, jute, velvet, tartan, gingham, poplin, charmeuse, corduroy, terrycloth, crepe, lame, bamboo, spandex, and a combination thereof.

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-section of the cane 100. According to an aspect, the cane 100 includes a tubular insulating structure 202 overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body 102. The central plate 120 includes a bushing 204 configured to be inserted into the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102. For example, the bushing 204 may be press fit against an inner surface of the interval cavity 104 at the first end 106 of the tubular cane body 102. As such, the central plate 120 of the handle 110 may be rigidly attached to the tubular cane body 102. The bushing 204 may be fastened to the support plate 122. A rechargeable battery 206 is located in the internal cavity 104, preferably above the second end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. In an example, the rechargeable battery 206 may be provided as a lithium battery placed in a battery holder, which is capable of providing necessary driving power for the operation of the multiple devices in the cane 100. Further, the cane 100 also includes an umbrella 208 stowed within the internal cavity 104. Specifically, FIG. 2A illustrates a first configuration “U1” of the umbrella 208. The umbrella 208 includes an umbrella shaft 210 and a rib support 212 surrounding the umbrella shaft 210 which are configured to move over the umbrella shaft 210 along the length axis “L” of the tubular cane body 102 when the umbrella is deployed.

The cane 100 also includes a spring 214 disposed within the internal cavity 104 and located on a spring seat 216 positioned above the rechargeable battery 206. Specifically, the spring 214 is disposed coaxially around the umbrella shaft 210. A spring stopper 218 provided in the internal cavity 104 is configured to retain the spring 214 in a compressed state, corresponding to the first configuration “U1” of the umbrella 208. An enlarged portion “B” of FIG. 2A is illustrated in FIG. 2B depicting an exemplary umbrella release mechanism. The spring stopper 218 is attached to the umbrella shaft 210. Referring to FIG. 2B(a), an umbrella lock 220 connected to the spring stopper 218 extends radially outward, with respect to the length axis “L”, through a first cutout 222 defined in the tubular cane body 102. In the first configuration “U1” of the umbrella 208, the umbrella lock 220 extends through the first cutout 222 to retain the spring 214 in the compressed state. The cane 100 further includes an umbrella release switch 224 extending radially outward with respect to the length axis “L” through a second cutout 226 defined in the tubular insulating structure 202. The umbrella release switch 224 is aligned with the umbrella lock 220 and is made accessible on an exterior surface of the tubular insulating structure 202. A biasing member 228 is disposed between the umbrella release switch 224 and the tubular cane body 102 to allow a retracting movement of the umbrella release switch 224 in the radial direction.

In order to deploy the umbrella 208, a physical push force “F” may be applied to the umbrella release switch 224 which is configured to actuate the umbrella lock 220. The physical push force “F” causes inward movement of the umbrella release switch 224 until the umbrella release switch 224 is flush with the exterior surface of the tubular insulating structure 202, and simultaneously causes inward radial movement of the umbrella lock 220. Such inward radial movement allows disengagement of the umbrella lock 220 from the first cutout 222, thereby eliminating any restriction for movement of the spring stopper 218 within the internal cavity 104 (see FIG. 2B(b)). In one embodiment, a release button may be positioned on the exterior surface of the tubular insulating structure 202 which is configured to receive the physical push force “F” and actuate the umbrella release switch 224. By virtue of a spring biasing force, the spring 214 expands upon disengagement of the umbrella lock 220 from the first cutout 222, thereby allowing the spring stopper 218 to move in a direction of spring expansion along the length axis “L” of the tubular cane body 102. Owing to the attachment between the umbrella shaft 210 and the spring stopper 218, the umbrella shaft 210 moves along with the spring stopper 218. In one aspect, allowable travel of the umbrella shaft 210 may be equal to an expanded length of the spring 214. For example, when the spring stopper 218 is coupled to a free end of the spring 214, the spring stopper 218 and the umbrella shaft 210 are allowed to travel till the spring 214 is fully expanded to its free length. As used herein, the term “free length” refers to a length of the spring 214 without any axial force or load applied thereon. In another aspect, the allowable length of the umbrella shaft 210 may be based on a momentum developed by the spring stopper 218 upon releasing the spring 214. For example, when the spring stopper 218 is not coupled to the free end of the spring 214, the spring stopper 218 and the umbrella shaft 210 may be allowed to travel a greater distance than in the situation where the spring 214 is confined to a travel length defined by the position of the spring stopper 218, based on momentum developed due to the release of the spring 214 from the compressed state. In both such cases, travel of the spring stopper 218, and hence the umbrella shaft 210, may be restricted by a flange 230 (shown in FIG. 2A) located within the internal cavity 104, which otherwise may lead to disengagement of the umbrella shaft 210 from the tubular cane body 102. Simultaneously, once the physical push force “F” is nullified, the umbrella release switch 224 returns to an initial position that is accessible to the user, by virtue of the biasing force of the biasing member 228.

FIG. 2C illustrates a second configuration of the umbrella 208. Due to the movement of the umbrella shaft 210 along the length axis “L”, the umbrella 208 may be deployed to achieve the second configuration. The umbrella 208 includes a plurality of ribs 232 connected to a rib holder 234 that is connected to and surrounding a first end 236 of the umbrella shaft 210. Further, a flexible sheet 238 is attached to the ribs 232. A rib holder stopper 240 is attached proximal to the first end 236 of the umbrella shaft 210. Upon movement of the umbrella shaft 210 in a direction outward and along the length axis “L”, the flexible sheet 238 of the umbrella 208 is caused to move through the opening 136 in the handle 110. The rib support 212 moves over the umbrella shaft 210 and pushes the rib holder 234 in the direction of movement thereof. The rib holder stopper 240 restricts the rib holder 234 to move further, thereby achieving expansion of the flexible sheet 238 and creating a shade for the user. In one aspect, the ribs 232 may extend away from the umbrella shaft 210 by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees. A button 242 provided on the umbrella shaft 210 locks the rib holder 234 in position once the rib holder 234 abuts the rib holder stopper 240. The button 242 may be spring actuated and may hence be moved radially inward, with respect to the length axis “L”, by the user and a corresponding outward retractable movement may be supported by the spring. The second configuration is defined by the spring 214 being released from the compressed state; the umbrella shaft 210, the ribs 232, the rib support 212 extending through the opening 136 defined in the handle 110; the flexible sheet 238 extending away from the umbrella shaft 210 along with the ribs 232; and the rib support 212 in a second position. As such, it would be apparent that the first configuration of the umbrella 208 refers to a condition where the ribs 232 are folded against the umbrella shaft 210, the rib support 212 is located at a first position, and the umbrella shaft 210 is located within the internal cavity 104 of the tubular cane body 102. The first position of the rib support 212 is at a greater distance from the first end 236 of the umbrella shaft 210 when compared to that of the second position of the rib support 212.

When the user applies the physical push force “F” on the umbrella release switch 224, care may be taken to locate the handle 110 away from the user to avoid an injury to the user during deployment of the umbrella 208. The shade created by the umbrella 208 can protect the user from sunshine and rain. Although a distance between the umbrella 208 and the seat 110 is less in FIG. 2C, it should be understood that such representation is only for the purpose of illustration and should not be construed as limiting. Based on the free length of the spring 214 and the length of the umbrella shaft 210, the umbrella 208 may be deployed to a greater distance from the seat 110, such that the user may comfortably sit on the seat 110 while being protected by the umbrella 208. In an example, in the deployed condition, ends of the flexible sheet 238 of the umbrella 208 may define a shade measuring about 30 cm in diameter.

In order to reinstall the umbrella 208 into the internal cavity 104 of the tubular cane body 102, the button 242 may be pushed radially inward with respect to the length axis “L” to release the rib holder 234 from the locked position. Such release of the rib holder 234 causes the rib holder 234 to in a direction towards the tubular cane body 102, thereby loosening the flexible sheet 238. Further, the flexible sheet 238 may be moved in a direction towards the umbrella shaft 210, thereby allowing the umbrella 208 to be folded against the umbrella shaft 210. Once a size of the umbrella 208 at the flexible sheet 238 portion is sufficient to be inserted through the opening 136 in the handle 110, the umbrella 208 may be pushed into the internal cavity 104. As a result, the umbrella lock 220 and the spring stopper 218 moves in a direction inward with respect to the second end 108 of the tubular cane body 102. Further inward movement causes the umbrella lock 220 to engage with the first cutout 222, thereby positioning the spring 214 in the compressed state. Components and corresponding functions described herein for the purpose of deploying the umbrella 208 should not be construed as limited. Any number of components may be added or subtracted with respect to those described herein to achieve the deployment of the umbrella 208 from the tubular cane body 102 upon the physical push force “F” on the umbrella release switch 224.

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the cane 100. The tubular insulating structure 202 of FIG. 2C is configured to house a plurality of electronic devices. The plurality of electronic devices includes, but is not limited to, a microcontroller 302, an alarm unit 304, an LED display 306, a WiFi unit 308, a Bluetooth unit 310, a music player 312 (such as MP3/MP4 player), a USB port 314, a camera 316, a radio 318, an earphone port 320, a plurality of LED units 356, 358, a speaker 324, a power input port 326 configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeable battery 206, a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port 328, a geolocation (GPS) receiver 330, a camera switch 332, and an LED projector 334.

FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an operating system 336 of the cane 100, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As seen in FIG. 3B, the operating system 336 includes a power device 338, a communication device 340, an entertainment device 342, a safety device 344, an audio notification device 346 and a capture and display (CAD) device 352. The microcontroller 302, which is embodied as a computing device 600 described with respect to FIG. 6, is operatively connected to each module and hence connected to each of the plurality of electronic devices. In some aspects, the microcontroller 302 may be embodied as a single metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) integrated circuit (IC) chip.

The power device 338 includes an ON/OFF switch 348, the rechargeable battery 206, the power input port 326, and a charging indicator 350. Once the ON/OFF switch 348 is pushed to the “ON mode”, the cane 100 may be actuated to a “power ON” condition and may be capable of executing multiple functions. The “power ON” condition supplies electric power to the microcontroller 302 and/or each of the plurality of electronic devices. Electrical wiring between the rechargeable battery 206, the microcontroller 302, and each of the plurality of electronic devices may be routed through the tubular insulating structure 202. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 302 may be connected to each of the plurality of electronic devices via a pin of the microcontroller 302, and the microcontroller 302 may be configured to power the electronic device via the corresponding pin. As such, the ON/OFF switch 348 is configured to connect the rechargeable battery 206 with the microcontroller 302 in the “ON mode” or disconnect the rechargeable battery 206 from the microcontroller 302 in an “OFF mode”.

The communication device 340 includes, but is not limited to, the WiFi unit 308, which is based on the IEEE 802.11 standards, the Bluetooth unit 310, the SIM port 328 housing a SIM card, the GPS receiver 330, and other devices capable of establishing personal area network (PAN), or Near-me Area Network (NAN), or other known wireless communication networks. With the aid of the communication device 340, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to receive data, analyze the data, and transmit the data to other electronic devices in the cane 100 or transmit the data to remotely located fixed terminals, such as desktop computer, or mobile device terminals, such as smartphone, PDA, and laptop computer, via a network 612 (see FIG. 6) established by the SIM card. The SIM port 328 may be configured to accommodate a standard SIM card, micro SIM card, or a nano SIM card. In some embodiments, the SIM port 328 may be configured as a dual SIM port to receive two SIM cards of either same kind or different kinds. In some embodiments, the SIM port 328 may be configured as a code division multiple access (CDMA) unit. The SIM card may be associated with any of known digital cellular technologies, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) including Circuit Switched Data (CSD), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE), evolved EDGE; digital Advanced Mobile Phone Systems (AMPS) including Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD); cdmaONE including Circuit Switched Data (CSD); 3G network including W-CDMA, TD-CDMA, TD-SCDMA, High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Evolved High Speed Packet Access (HSPA+); 4G networks including Long Term Evolution (LTE) Advanced, Long Term Evolution (LTE) Advanced Pro; or 5G network including 5G NR (New Radio). Further, the GPS receiver 330 is configured to detect location of the cane 100 and time.

The entertainment device 342 includes, but not limited to, the music player 312, the speaker 324, the earphone port 320, the radio 318, and the USB port 314. With the aid of the entertainment device 342, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to receive multiple data files related to entertainment, such as music files in any of the known formats, for example, not limited to, MP3, MP4, WAV, and the like. Music associated with the data file may be played by the music player 312 and the user may hear the music via the speaker 324. Alternatively, the user may use earphones to listen the music by connecting the earphones to the earphone port 320. In some aspects, the Bluetooth unit 310 may be used to wirelessly connect the earphones with the music player 312. The radio 318 allows the user to listen to audio broadcasts with aid of broadcast channel browsing associated with AM/FM modes. As the user walks with the cane 100, the radio 318 may be configured to allow the user to access multiple radio broadcast stations available at location of the user. In some aspects, functioning of the radio 318 may be assisted by the GPS receiver 330. The USB port 314 may be embodied as one of, but not limited to, USB A, USB B, USB mini-A, USB mini-B, USB micro-A, USB micro-B, USB 3.0 A SS, USB 3.0 B SS, USB 3.0 micro-B, USB-C. With the aid of the USB port 314, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to recognize an external device connected to the cane 100 and allow transfer of media files from the external device, such as a data storage device, to a memory 604 (see FIG. 6) of the microcontroller 302. The music player 312 may be allowed to access the media files from the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302. In some aspects, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to allow pairing of the user's smartphone with the cane 100 via the Bluetooth unit 310, thereby allowing the user to play songs stored in the user's smartphone. In some aspects, the user may be allowed to answer phone calls through the earphones when the earphone is paired with the cane 100.

The CAD device 352 includes the camera 316, the camera switch 332, the LED display 306, and the LED projector 334 connected to the camera 316 and the LED display 306. With the aid of the CAD device 352, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to capture images of the surroundings and display the images on the LED display 306. In a non-limiting example, the LED display 306 may be a high definition or ultra-high definition touchscreen display unit to allow the user to clearly see the images during sunshine. Specifically, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to operate the camera 316 to capture images of the environment around the user. However, such operation of the camera 316 may be possible when the camera switch 332 is in ON mode. In some aspects, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to capture the images of the environment based on an input from the user. Positioning the camera switch 332 to the ON mode may be indicative of the user's intention to capture images of the environment. At other times, the camera 316 may remain switched off or in standby mode, thereby saving battery power. In some aspects, based on the location detected by the GPS receiver 330, the microcontroller 302 may tag the location and time of capture to the captured images. The images may be stored in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302. Options for editing the images or deleting one or more images may be provided to the user on the LED display 306. Additionally, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to display the location and time on the LED display 306 and periodically update the location and time as detected by the GPS receiver 330. Optionally, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to periodically generate a message including the location and time detected by the GPS receiver 330 and transmit the message to the user's smartphone via the Bluetooth unit 310.

In some aspects, the camera switch 332 includes a plurality of settings, such as a first setting, a second setting, a third setting, and a fourth setting. For example, the camera switch 332 may be rotated to different positions to achieve each of these settings. The first setting of the camera switch 332 is configured to actuate the camera 316 to take a picture of the surrounding environment. As such, the first setting of the camera switch 332 may be understood as a position of the camera switch 332 different from a position or orientation corresponding to actuating the camera 316 to switch ON mode. The second setting of the camera switch is configured to actuate the LED projector 334 to project the picture, the third setting is configured to display the picture on the LED display 306, and the fourth setting is configured to store the picture in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302.

The safety device 344 includes the plurality of LED units 322 having a first set of LED units 356 located between the umbrella release switch 224 and the rechargeable battery 206, and a second set of LED units 358 located between the handle 110 and the microcontroller 302. The first set of LED units 356 and the second set of LED units 358 are configured to turn on, that is illuminate, when the ON/OFF switch 348 is in the “ON mode” and remain turned off in the “OFF mode” of the ON/OFF switch 348. In some aspects, the first set of LED units 356 may be different from that of the second set of LED units 358 with respect to either illumination color and/or illumination brightness. In some aspects, positioning the ON/OFF switch 348 to a certain orientation may selectively turn on the first set of LED units 356 or the second set of LED units 358. In some aspects, the ON/OFF switch 348 may be pressed a predefined number of times to change the illumination pattern and illumination brightness of the first set of LED units 356 and the second set of LED units 358. The first set of LED units 356 may illuminate a region around the foot of the user and may illuminate a path along which the user walks. Further, a first predator LED unit 360 is located adjacent to the first set of LED units 356 and a second predator LED unit 362 is located adjacent to the second set of LED units 358. In some aspects, each of the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predator LED unit 362 may be configured to generate a bright red color constantly or in a flashing manner. The number of sets of LED units and corresponding locations described herein are only for the purpose of description of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limited. Rather, additional sets of LED units may be added or subtracted from those described and illustrated herein, albeit with few variations to configurations of LED units and corresponding placement of the LED units.

The microcontroller 302 is configured to detect the first setting of the camera switch 332, store the captured picture(s) in the memory 604 thereof, and analyze the picture(s) to determine whether a predator is approaching. For the purpose of such analysis, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to, for example, perform an image analysis by parsing the pictures stored in the memory 604, and detect salient features from the parsed image fragments, and recognize a type of object based on analysis of pixel characteristics of the detected salient features. In some aspects, recognition model to analyze the images may be embedded into the microcontroller 302. Based on such recognition model, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to determine whether a mass being analyzed in the parsed image fragments is an object present in the environment or the predator. Additionally, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to determine a rate of movement of the mass identified in the captured picture with respect to the location of the cane 100. When the rate of movement and/or distance between the mass and the cane 100 change during a certain time period, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to identify the mass as the predator. In response to such identification, the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predator LED unit 362 may be actuated, by the microcontroller 302, to flash red light. Simultaneously, the speaker 324 may be actuated, by the microcontroller 302, to generate a noise in a decibel range of about 140 dB to about 200 dB.

The audio notification device 346 includes the alarm unit 304. In some aspects, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to generate a haptic feedback or haptic indication to the user, besides generation an audio notification. Based on the analysis of the picture, when the predator is detected, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to provide the haptic indication to the user, whereby the user may be suggested to use an ear plug or earphone since the noise of 80 dB and above may be uncomfortable or harmful to the user. In cases where the user is listening to songs via the music player 312 or radio 318, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to temporarily stop the operation of the music player 312 or radio 318, when presence of the predator is detected. Additionally, the time and the current location detected by the GPS receiver 330 may be tagged to the picture(s), and may be shared, via the network 612, with at least one of the smartphone, and a remote device, such as a remote monitor, and a remote receiver consisting of the fixed terminals and the mobile device terminals. In some aspects, the safety device 344 may also include a compass 364 to guide the user to walk towards a required destination. In an embodiment, the compass 364 may be located on a surface of the tubular insulating structure 202. In another embodiment, the compass 364 may be located on the central plate 120 of the handle 100, beside the opening 136 defined therein. Features of the cane 100, such as deployment of the umbrella 208 from the cane 100, the compass 364, and the actuation of the predator LED units 360, 362 are advantageous to users.

In some aspects, when the cane 100 is communicably paired with the user's smartphone, the microcontroller 302 is configured to receive a weather report through at least one of the Bluetooth unit 310 and the WiFi unit 308. During instances where the cane 100 is not paired with the user's smartphone, the microcontroller 302 may obtain weather report using network established by the SIM card. The microcontroller 302 may be configured to analyze the weather report and determine, based on the analysis, whether a rain shower is predicted within a pre-determined time period at the current location of the cane 100. When a rain shower is predicted, the microcontroller 302 may notify the user regarding deployment of the umbrella 208 and may actuate the umbrella release switch 224 to place the umbrella 208 in the second configuration. The notification to the user regarding the deployment of the umbrella 208 may indicate the user to locate the handle 110 at a distance, so that the user is not harmed by the deployment of the umbrella 208. In one aspect, the notification may be provided as an audio notification with air of the alarm unit 304 and the speaker 324. In another aspect, the notification may be provided as a combination of the audio notification and haptic indication. In yet another aspect, the LED display 306 may show a symbol to indicate the deployment of the umbrella 208 in addition to at least one of the audio notification and the haptic indication. In yet another aspect, at least one of the first set of LED units 356 and the second set of LED units 358 may be illuminated to notify the user, in addition to the audio notification and haptic indication. The deployment of the umbrella 208 may be possible in the folded configuration of the handle 110 and the unfolded configuration of the handle 110. The cane 100 embedded with the microcontroller 302 and the plurality of electronic devices is alternatively referred to as “the convertible multi-tasking cane system 100” in the present disclosure. To this end, it will be understood that the cane 100 of the present disclosure includes a multifunctional and adaptable smart circuit capable of enhancing user convenience, protecting the user from rain shower, sunlight, and predators, and conveniently and effectively providing remote domestic help. Additionally, due to miniaturization of the electronic components, a light weighing cane may be achieved.

FIG. 4A shows a flowchart of a method 400 deploying the umbrella 208, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The method 400 is described in conjunction with FIG. 1A to FIG. 3B. In one aspect, at step 402, the method 400 includes actuating the ON/OFF switch 348 to turn ON the cane 100. At step 404, the method 400 includes walking while holding the handle 110 of the cane 100, where a base of the cane 100, such as the base support 112, is supported on the ground surface. At step 406, the method 400 includes sitting on the seat 111 formed by unfolding the handle 110, when not walking. At step 408, the method 400 includes protecting, by the umbrella 208, the user from the rain shower or sunlight by actuating the umbrella release switch 224 located on the cane 100, to extend the umbrella shaft 210 through the opening 136 defined at the center of the seat 111 or the handle 110, causing the plurality of ribs 232 connected to the umbrella shaft 210 to extend upwards and out from the umbrella shaft 210, and unfurling the flexible sheet 238 attached to the plurality of ribs 232.

Although not specifically illustrated in FIG. 4A, the method 400 may further include inserting the earphone jack into the earphone port 320 defined in the cane 100. In some aspects, the method 400 may include wirelessly pairing the earphone with the cane 100. The method 400 further includes turning on a radio switch located on the surface of the cane 100. In one aspect, an option to turn on the radio 318 may be provided as a touch button in the LED display 306. In such configuration, the method 400 includes receiving an input from the user, via the LED display 306 to turn on the radio 318. The method 400 further includes listening to the radio 318 while walking or sitting on the seat 111. In some aspects, the method 400 may include turning on an MP3 player switch located on the surface of the cane 100 and listening to music stored on the music player 312 while walking or sitting on the seat 111. In some aspects, an option to turn on the music player 312 may be provided as a touch button in the LED display 306 that is different from the touch button of the radio 318. Such touch buttons may allow the user to shift from radio 318 to the music player 312 when desired.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating the cane 100 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. For example, the method includes receiving an input from the ON/OFF switch 348 indicative of the “ON mode”, actuating the cane 100 to the “power ON” condition, receiving the weather report from one of the user's smartphone or a remote device when the cane 100 is in the “power ON” condition, determining occurrence of the rain shower within a predetermined time period at the location of the cane 100, notifying the user regarding deployment of the umbrella 208 when the rain shower is predicted within the predetermined time period, and actuating the umbrella release switch 224 to deploy the umbrella out of the cane 100.

FIG. 4B shows a flowchart of a method 450 for imaging the surrounding environment using the cane 100, according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure. In an example, the method 450 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. At step 452, the method 450 includes actuating, by the camera switch 332, the camera 316 to capture one or more pictures of the surrounding environment. At step 454, the method 450 includes displaying the picture(s) on the LED display 306. At step 456, the method 450 includes displaying, by the LED projector 334, the picture(s) on a surface of the surrounding environment. In another embodiment, the method 450, at step 456, may include displaying the picture(s) on the LED display 306. In yet another embodiment, the method 450, at step 456, may include displaying the picture(s) on the LED display 306 followed by displaying the picture(s) on the ground surface in front of the user. In some embodiments, the picture(s) may be displayed simultaneously on the ground surface and the LED display 306. At step 458, the method 450 includes storing the picture(s) in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302. At step 460, the method 450 includes wirelessly transmitting the pictures(s) via at least one of the SIM card, the Bluetooth unit 310, and the WiFi unit 308. In some aspects, the steps 454, 456, and 458 may be selectively executed by the microcontroller 302.

FIG. 5A shows a flowchart of a method 500 for identifying predators using the cane 100, according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure. In an example, the method 500 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. At step 502, the method 500 includes determining, based on time of day, whether the current time corresponds to evening hours or night hours. The time of day may be determined by a clock or timer located within the microcontroller 302 and/or through GPS receiver 330. In some aspects, the method 500 may further include determining a weather condition, including presence of amount of sunlight and clouds, based on a weather report obtained by internet connectivity established through the SIM card in the SIM port 328. At step 504, the method 500 includes actuating the plurality of LED units 322 when the current time indicates evening hours or night hours based on the current location of the cane 100. At step 506, the method 500 includes periodically actuating the camera 316 to take pictures of the surrounding environment. At step 508, the method 500 includes analyzing the pictures to determine whether a predator is approaching towards the cane 100. At step 510, the method 500 includes actuating the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predator LED unit 362 based on the analysis. In cases where the method 500 determines a mass in the picture(s) as an immovable object, the step 510 may not be executed. At step 512, the method 500 includes actuating the speaker 324 to generate a noise in a decibel range of about 140 dB to about 200 dB based on actuating the first predator LED unit 360 and the second predator LED unit 362.

FIG. 5B illustrates a flowchart of a method 550 for geolocating the cane 100, according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure. In an example, the method 500 may be executed by the microcontroller 302. At step 552, the method 550 includes obtaining, by the GPS receiver 330, the current location of the cane 100 and the current time. As used herein, the term “current location” refers either to the location of the cane 100 at an instance when the GPS receiver 330 sends a signal to the microcontroller 302 or the location of the cane 100 when the microcontroller 302 fetches data from the GPS receiver 330. At step 554, the method 550 includes displaying the current location and the current time on the LED display 306. At step 556, the method 550 includes periodically generating the current location and the current time. At step 558, the method 550 includes determining a deviation in route when the current location deviates from a map route stored in the microcontroller 302. For example, a predefined route for a desired destination may be downloaded and saved in the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302. The predefined route may be obtained as a data file and may be transferred to the memory 604 of the microcontroller 302 from an external storage device, through the USB port 314. At step 560, the method 550 includes actuating the alarm unit 304 when the current location deviates from the map route. In some aspects, the step of actuating the alarm unit 304 may include generating the haptic indication and the audio indication to the user to indicate the deviation of the map route. Additionally, the method 550 may include displaying a notification regarding the deviation from the map route, on the LED display 306. At step 562, the method 550 includes generating instructions to guide the user to an expected location, such as the desired destination, on the map route. At step 564, the method 550 includes broadcasting the instructions by actuating the speaker 324 to guide the user towards the desired destination from the deviated route. When the generated instructions include moving towards North, East, and

West directions, the compass 364 may assist the user. At step 566, the method 550 includes wirelessly transmitting a message, including coordinates of the current location and current time, and the generated instructions by at least one of the Bluetooth unit 310, the WiFi unit 308, and the SIM card.

For example, when the user is lost in pilgrimage place, at a tourist place, in a forest, at a countryside, or in the mountains, the cane 100 of the present disclosure allows the user to communicate with a remote person or emergency help units by accessing the network connectivity through the SIM card. In some aspects, the cane 100 may also include a mic to allow the user to record and convey voice messages. In some aspects, the alarm unit 304 may be configured to remind the user about a prayer time, medicine consuming time, and the like. Further, the microcontroller 302 may be configured to request for a passcode, such as password, audio recognition, or face recognition, fingerprint recognition, retina recognition, and the like, to prevent others from handling the cane 100. Such configuration may also prevent children from using the functionalities provided by the electronic devices of the cane 100.

Next, further details of the hardware description of the microcontroller 302 of FIG. 3 according to exemplary embodiments is described as a computing device 600 with reference to FIG. 6. In FIG. 6, the microcontroller 302 is a computing device which includes a CPU 602 which performs the processes described above/below. The process data and instructions may be stored in the memory 604. These processes and instructions may also be stored on a storage device 606, such as a hard drive (HDD) or portable storage medium or may be stored remotely.

Further, the claims are not limited by the form of the computer-readable media on which the instructions of the inventive process are stored. For example, the instructions may be stored on CDs, DVDs, in FLASH memory, RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, hard disk or any other information processing device with which the computing device communicates, such as a server or computer.

Further, the claims may be provided as a utility application, background daemon, or component of an operating system, or combination thereof, executing in conjunction with CPU 602, 608 and an operating system such as Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows 10, UNIX, Solaris, LINUX, Apple MAC-OS, and other systems known to those skilled in the art.

The hardware elements in order to achieve the computing device may be realized by various circuitry elements, known to those skilled in the art. For example, CPU 602 or CPU 608 may be a Xenon or Core processor from Intel of America or an Opteron processor from AMD of America, or may be other processor types that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art. Alternatively, the CPU 602, 608 may be implemented on an FPGA, ASIC, PLD or using discrete logic circuits, as one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize. Further, CPU 602, 608 may be implemented as multiple processors cooperatively working in parallel to perform the instructions of the inventive processes described above.

The computing device 600 in FIG. 6 also includes a network controller 610, such as an Intel Ethernet PRO network interface card from Intel Corporation of America, for interfacing with the network 612. As can be appreciated, the network 612 can be a public network, such as the Internet, or a private network such as an LAN or WAN network, or any combination thereof and can also include PSTN or ISDN sub-networks. The network 612 can also be wired, such as an Ethernet network, or can be wireless such as a cellular network including EDGE, 3G and 4G wireless cellular systems. The wireless network can also be Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or any other wireless form of communication that is known.

The computing device 600 further includes a display controller 614, such as a NVIDIA GeForce GTX or Quadro graphics adaptor from NVIDIA Corporation of America for interfacing with a display 616, embodied as the LED display 306 in FIG. 3. A general purpose I/O interface 618 interfaces with a touch screen panel 620 which may be a part of the display 616 or separate from the display 616. A sound controller 622 is also provided in the computing device 600, such as Sound Blaster X-Fi Titanium from Creative, to interface with speakers/microphone 624 thereby providing sounds and/or music.

The general purpose storage controller 622 connects the storage device 606 with communication bus 626, which may be an ISA, EISA, VESA, PCI, or similar, for interconnecting all of the components of the computing device 600. A description of the general features and functionality of the display 616 as well as the display controller 614, storage controller 628, the network controller 610, the sound controller 622, and the general purpose I/O interface 618 is omitted herein for brevity as these features are known.

The exemplary circuit elements described in the context of the present disclosure may be replaced with other elements and structured differently than the examples provided herein. Moreover, circuitry configured to perform features described herein may be implemented in multiple circuit units (e.g., chips), or the features may be combined in circuitry on a single chipset. The above-described hardware description is a non-limiting example of corresponding structure for performing the functionality described herein.

Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A convertible, multi-tasking cane, comprising:

a tubular cane body having an internal cavity;

a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, wherein the handle is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism;

a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body;

an umbrella;

a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity, above the second end of the tubular cane body; and

a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body, the tubular insulating structure housing a plurality of electronic devices.

2. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 1, further comprising:

a compass located on a surface of the tubular insulating structure.

3. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 1, the handle comprising:

a central plate located on the first end of the tubular cane body, wherein a plane of the central plate is perpendicular to a length axis of the tubular cane body;

an opening defined in a center of the central plate;

a first rectangular metallic frame having a first inner frame edge hingeably connected to a first side of the central plate;

a second rectangular metallic frame having a second inner frame edge hingeably connected to a second side of the central plate, wherein the second side is opposite the first side;

a first flexible covering attached to the first rectangular metallic frame;

a second flexible covering attached to the second rectangular metallic frame;

wherein the handle is configured to form a hand grip when a first outer frame edge of the first rectangular metallic frame and a second outer frame edge of the second rectangular metallic frame are folded together such that the first rectangular metallic frame and the second rectangular metallic frame are perpendicular to the plane of the central plate; and

wherein the handle is configured to form the seat when the first outer frame edge of the first rectangular metallic frame and the second outer frame edge of the second rectangular metallic frame are unfolded so that the first outer frame edge and the second outer frame edge are in the plane of the central plate.

4. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 1, wherein the plurality of electronic devices includes a microcontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, a WIFI unit, a Bluetooth unit, an MP3 player, a USB port, a camera, a radio, an earphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a power input port configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeable battery, and a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port.

5. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 4, wherein the microcontroller is operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LED display, the WIFI unit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the USB port, the camera, the radio, the earphone jack, the plurality of LED units, the speaker, the rechargeable battery, and the micro SIM port.

6. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 5, further comprising:

a geolocation (GPS) receiver configured to generate a location of the cane and a current time; and

wherein the microcontroller is configured to display the location and time on the LED display and/or periodically generate a location and time message to the Bluetooth unit.

7. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 5, further comprising:

a camera switch connected to the camera, the camera switch having a plurality of settings, wherein a first setting of the camera switch is configured to actuate the camera to take a picture;

an LED projector connected to the camera, wherein a second setting of the camera switch is configured to actuate the LED projector to project the picture;

the LED display connected to the camera, wherein a third setting of the camera switch is configured to display the picture on the LED display; and

a memory located within the microcontroller, wherein a fourth setting of the camera switch is configured to store the picture in the memory.

8. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 7, further comprising an ON/OFF switch configured to connect the rechargeable battery to or disconnect the rechargeable battery from the microcontroller, respectively, wherein:

a first set of LED units of the plurality of LED units is located between an umbrella release switch and the rechargeable battery;

a second set of LED units of the plurality of LED units is located between the handle and the microcontroller, wherein the first set of LED units and the second set of LED units turn on when the ON/OFF switch is in an ON mode;

a first predator LED unit of the plurality of LED units is located adjacent to the first set of LED units;

a second predator LED unit of the plurality of LED units is located adjacent to the second set of LED units;

and wherein the microcontroller is further configured to: detect the first setting of the camera switch, analyze the picture to determine whether a predator is approaching; actuate the first predator LED unit and the second predator LED unit to flash red light when a predator is approaching; and actuate the speaker to generate a noise in a decibel range of about 140 dB to about 200 dB based on the analysis of the picture.

9. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 5, further comprising:

an opening defined at a center of the seat;

the umbrella including an umbrella shaft, a plurality of ribs connected to a rib holder, the rib holder connected to and surrounding a first end of the umbrella shaft, a flexible sheet attached to the plurality of ribs, and a rib support surrounding the umbrella shaft, wherein the rib support is configured to move over the umbrella shaft; and

wherein the umbrella has a first configuration where the plurality of ribs are folded against the umbrella shaft, the rib support is located at a first position and the umbrella shaft is enclosed within the internal cavity of the tubular cane body, and a second configuration where the umbrella shaft, the plurality of ribs and the rib support extend through the opening, the ribs are extended away from the umbrella shaft by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees and the rib support is located at a second position, wherein the first position is at a greater distance from an umbrella tip than the second position.

10. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 9, further comprising:

a spring located within the internal cavity of the tubular cane body;

a spring stopper located within the internal cavity between the spring and the umbrella shaft, wherein the spring stopper is configured to hold the spring in a compressed state in the first configuration and release the spring in the second configuration;

an umbrella lock located within the internal cavity between the spring and the rechargeable battery, wherein the umbrella lock is connected to the spring stopper and is configured to release the spring stopper in the second configuration; and

an umbrella release switch located within the internal cavity between the umbrella lock and the rechargeable battery, wherein the umbrella release switch is configured to actuate the umbrella lock.

11. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 10, wherein the umbrella release switch is actuated by a physical push of a release button positioned on the umbrella release switch, wherein the release button is located on an exterior of the tubular insulating structure.

12. The convertible, multi-tasking cane of claim 10, wherein the microcontroller is configured to:

receive a weather report through at least one of the Bluetooth unit and the WiFi unit;

analyze the weather report;

determine, based on the analysis, whether a rain shower is predicted within a pre-determined time period at a current location of the cane,

notify a user regarding deployment of the umbrella when the rain shower is predicted within the pre-determined time period; and

actuate the umbrella release switch to place the umbrella in the second configuration when the rain shower is predicted within the pre-determined time period.

13. A method of using a convertible, multi-tasking cane, comprising:

actuating an ON/OFF switch to turn ON the convertible multi-tasking cane;

walking while holding a handle of the convertible multi-tasking cane, a base of the convertible multi-tasking cane supported by a ground surface;

sitting on a seat formed by unfolding the handle of the convertible multi-tasking cane when not walking; and

protecting, by an umbrella, a user from a rain shower or sunlight by actuating an umbrella release switch located on the convertible multi-tasking cane to extend an umbrella shaft through an opening defined at a center of the seat or the handle, causing a plurality of ribs connected to the umbrella shaft to extend upwards and out from the umbrella shaft, and unfurling a flexible sheet attached to the plurality of ribs.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

inserting an earphone jack into an earphone port defined in the convertible multi-tasking cane;

turning on a radio switch located on a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane; and

listening to a radio located in a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane while walking or sitting on the seat.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

inserting an earphone jack into an earphone port defined in the convertible multi-tasking cane;

turning on an MP3 player switch located on a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane; and

listening to music stored on an MP3 player located in a surface of the convertible multi-tasking cane while walking or sitting on the seat.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

actuating, by a camera switch, a camera to take a picture of a surrounding environment, the camera located within a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of a tubular cane body of the convertible multi-tasking cane;

performing at least one step of: displaying the picture on an LED display; displaying, by an LED projector, the picture on a surface of the surrounding environment; storing the picture in a memory of a microcontroller; wirelessly transmitting the picture, by at least one of a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a Bluetooth unit, and a WiFi unit.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising:

determining, by the microcontroller, when a current time is nighttime;

actuating a plurality of LED units to turn ON;

periodically actuating, by the camera switch, the camera to take the picture of the surrounding environment, the camera located within the tubular insulating structure;

analyzing the picture to determine whether a predator is approaching;

actuating a first predator LED unit and a second predator LED unit of the plurality of LED units to flash red light based on the analysis; and

actuating a speaker located on the convertible multi-tasking cane to generate a noise in a decibel range of about 140 dB to about 200 dB based on actuating the first predator LED unit and the second predator LED unit.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising:

obtaining, by a geolocation (GPS), a current location of the convertible multi-tasking cane and a current time;

displaying the current location and current time on the LED display located on the convertible multi-tasking cane;

periodically generating, by the microcontroller, a current location and current time message;

determining, by the microcontroller, when the current location deviates from a map route stored in the microcontroller;

actuating, by the microcontroller, an alarm when a deviation of current location is determined;

generating, by the microcontroller, instructions to guide a user to an expected location on the map route;

broadcasting, by the microcontroller, the instructions by actuating a speaker located within the tubular insulating structure; and

wirelessly transmitting, by the microcontroller, the current location, and the current time message and/or the instructions by at least one of the Bluetooth unit, the SIM card, and the WiFi unit.

19. A convertible, multi-tasking cane system, comprising:

a tubular cane body having an internal cavity;

a handle attached to a first end of the tubular cane body, wherein the handle is configured to convert to a seat upon actuation of a seat release mechanism;

a base support attached to a second end of the tubular cane body;

an umbrella having a folded configuration in which an umbrella shaft is enclosed within the internal cavity, umbrella ribs are folded against the umbrella shaft, a rib support is located at a first position and an open configuration in which the umbrella shaft, the ribs and the rib support extend through an opening in the handle and/or the seat, the ribs are extended away from the umbrella shaft by an angle in a range of about 60 degrees to about 90 degrees and the rib support is located at a second position, wherein the first position is at a greater distance from an umbrella tip than the second position;

a rechargeable battery located in the internal cavity, above the second end of the tubular cane body;

a tubular insulating structure overlapping a portion of the tubular cane body, the tubular insulating structure housing a plurality of electronic devices, the plurality of electronic devices including a microcontroller, an alarm unit, an LED display, a WIFI unit, a Bluetooth unit, an MP3 player, a GPS receiver, a USB port, a camera, a radio, an earphone jack, a plurality of LED units, a speaker, a power input port configured to supply power to recharge the rechargeable battery, and a micro subscriber identity module (SIM) port;

wherein the microcontroller is operatively connected to the alarm unit, the LED display, the WIFI unit, the Bluetooth unit, the MP3 player, the GPS receiver, the USB port, the camera, the radio, the earphone jack, the plurality of LED lights, the speaker, the rechargeable battery, and the micro SIM port; and

wherein the microcontroller is configured to transmit and receive wireless communications through at least one of the WIFI unit, the Bluetooth unit, the GPS receiver, and a SIM card inserted in the micro SIM port.

20. The convertible, multi-tasking cane system of claim 19, wherein the microcontroller is further configured to:

obtain, by the GPS receiver, a current location of the cane and a current time;

display the current location and the current time on the LED display located on the cane;

periodically generate a current location and current time message;

determine when the current location deviates from a map route stored in a memory of the microcontroller;

actuate an alarm when a deviation of current location is determined;

generate instructions to guide a user to an expected location on the map route;

broadcast the instructions by actuating a speaker located within the tubular insulating structure; and

wirelessly transmit the current location and the current time message and/or the instructions to at least one of a smart phone, a remote monitor, and a remote receiver.