Walker Type Patents (Class 135/67)
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Patent number: 8479755Abstract: An ambulatory aid is revealed. The ambulatory aid includes a hollow main rod and a hollow support pole connected with each other, and a cushion unit therebetween. The main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit all have insertion holes, aligned with each other. By insertion pins inserted into the insertion holes, the main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit are assembled with each other. The structure of the assembly of the main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit is more firm and tighter. When the ambulatory aid is pressed by a larger pressure, the assembly will not come loose and move around and the unstable walking stick makes the users fall down due to a loss of support.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2011Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Gentry Way Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chi-Wei Hung
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Publication number: 20130140781Abstract: A safety walker includes a pair of side members, arms and spring loaded pins engaging the arms so as to allow movement of the side members between an operative position, wherein the side members are disposed in a spaced apart generally parallel relationship with each other and a generally folded position, wherein the side members are generally juxtaposed in a generally planar relationship with and in close proximity to each other. There is also a seat that is configured for movement between a stored position wherein the seat is disposed generally parallel to a rear leg of one of the pair of the side members and a second position wherein the seat is disposed generally horizontally across a space between rear legs of the pair of the side members. The safety walker is also configured for supporting various medical devices often connected to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 6, 2013Applicant: PRINOS SOLUTIONS, LLCInventor: MICHAEL R. PRATHER
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Patent number: 8454034Abstract: There is provided a brake pad assembly for a walker apparatus. The walker apparatus has a frame and a wheel pivotally connected to the frame. The assembly includes a brake pad mechanism having a brake pad. The brake pad mechanism is spring-biased to position the brake pad spaced-apart from and adjacent to the wheel. The brake pad mechanism is configured to cause the brake pad to abut the wheel when the brake pad mechanism is actuated. The assembly includes an arch-shaped brake housing. The brake pad mechanism pivotally mounts to the arch-shaped brake housing. The arch-shaped brake housing extends completely over the brake pad mechanism for fully protecting the brake pad mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2012Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.Inventor: Julian Liu
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Patent number: 8453662Abstract: An assistive walker for assisting a user in going on foot and for reinforcing recommended walker use technique includes a walker frame including opposed leading and trailing ends formed between opposed handled and footed ends and that together define a user-receiving area extending from the trailing end of the walker frame to the leading end of the walker frame, and the walker frame is for supporting a user in the user-receiving area and aiding ambulation thereof. The walker frame is formed with a motion sensor apparatus including a motion sensor assembly to detect user movement at the user-receiving area, and a signal device operatively coupled to the motion sensor assembly to emit the signal in response to a substantial lack of detected user movement at the user-receiving area.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Assignee: Steelhead Innovations, LLCInventor: William G. Trout
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Patent number: 8448960Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a brake, a braking handle, a brake wire, a brake rod, and a brake rod assembly. A gripping member connects to the brake wire. The gripping member includes a plate having a first end, a second end and an aperture near the second end. The plate connects to the brake wire near the first end and the plate slidably receives the brake rod through the aperture near the second end. The gripping member includes a clamp that engages the brake wire via a set screw. The gripping member is spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod in a non-actuated mode. When the braking handle actuates the brake wire, the plate tilts with the first end elevating relative to the second end, thereby causing the plate to engage with and abut the brake rod for thereby actuating the brake rod to brake.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 28, 2013Inventor: Julian Liu
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Publication number: 20130125943Abstract: An ambulatory aid is revealed. The ambulatory aid includes a hollow main rod and a hollow support pole connected with each other, and a cushion unit therebetween. The main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit all have insertion holes, aligned with each other. By insertion pins inserted into the insertion holes, the main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit are assembled with each other. The structure of the assembly of the main rod, the hollow support and the cushion unit is more firm and tighter. When the ambulatory aid is pressed by a larger pressure, the assembly will not come loose and move around and the unstable walking stick makes the users fall down due to a loss of support.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2011Publication date: May 23, 2013Applicant: GENTRY WAY CO., LTD.Inventor: CHI-WEI HUNG
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Patent number: 8434780Abstract: A rollator is disclosed in this invention. The rollator includes: a base frame; front wheel assemblies and rear wheel assemblies respectively mounted on both sides of the base frame; an inverted U-shaped supporting pipe; a H-shaped armrest bracket; connection pieces having block grooves thereon; a slide control lever for cooperating with the block grooves; a seat plate; a spring element; wherein the base frame is provided with unidirectional hinged seats; both bottom ends of the supporting pipe are hinged to the base frame, and both side arms of the supporting pipe are provided with slide holes facing each other; the armrest bracket has bottom portions hinged to the unidirectional hinged seat. The rollator has a simple structure and can be used for various situations in both folded and unfolded state.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Genteel Homecare Products Co., Ltd.Inventor: Qingfeng Li
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Publication number: 20130092202Abstract: A walking aid has a safety assembly installed on a main frame for helping a brake assembly stop a rotation of a wheel set thereof. Namely, by means of a brake handle of the brake assembly being secured by the safety assembly, the wheel set is firmly fixed to prevent the walking aid from instability in case of any unintentional collision.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2011Publication date: April 18, 2013Inventor: CHING-TSANG WU
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Publication number: 20130076517Abstract: A system for interoperability of a person support apparatus and various patient mobility devices are disclosed. The system allows for communication between the person support apparatus and various patient mobility devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventors: Jason Penninger, Christopher R. O'Keefe
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Publication number: 20130061892Abstract: The present invention discloses a height self-adjustable walking aid, comprising two oppositely arranged U-shaped stands which are connected by a front stand, wherein the two ends of each U-shaped stand are sleeved with two outer pipes respectively, and each outer pipe is mounted with a height adjusting apparatus and a control apparatus for height adjusting; the walking aid of the present invention is adjustable in height according to the heights of users, so as to satisfy the requirement of allowing the patients or elders with different heights to use a same equipment, whereby providing great convenience for users; meanwhile, the heights of the two ends of each U-shaped stand could be adjustable respectively, to generate a height difference between the front end and rear end of the walking end, so as to enable the patients or elders to walk up and down the stairs with it.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2011Publication date: March 14, 2013Inventor: Junbiao Huang
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Publication number: 20130061893Abstract: A foldable seat for a rollator or a wheelchair includes a first plate and a second plate. The plates are rotatably moveable between an unfolded position and a folded position. A hinge pivotally connects said first plate to said second plate. An exemplary hinge comprises at least a first cylinder integral with said first plate and at least a second cylinder integral with said second plate. The seat further comprises a locking/unlocking system configured to be actuated by the user so as to lock, respectively unlock, said first and second plates into, respectively from, said unfolded position and/or said folded position. The locking/unlocking system being at least partially lodged inside said first and/or said second cylinder.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: INVACARE INTERNATIONAL SARLInventors: Tobias NILSSON, Joseph VAN HOUTEM
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Patent number: 8394044Abstract: The present invention provides a walking assist device including a seat member (1) where a user (P) sits astride; and a support member (2L, 2R) which is provided at a bottom side of the seat member (1); wherein the walking assist device includes a connection portion (106) which connects the seat member (1) to the support member (2L, 2R) in such a way that the seat member (1) is able to swing laterally around a spindle (106a) located at a middle portion of the anteroposterior width of the seat member (1) which the user (P) contacts. Therefore, the resistance force from the seat portion that the user (P) is subject to when the user (P) swings the hip to walk is reduced, thereby improving the usability of the walking assist device.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jun Ashihara, Hiroshi Kudoh
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Publication number: 20130025641Abstract: Briefly, embodiments of methods or apparatuses used in conjunction with a walker are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2012Publication date: January 31, 2013Inventor: Stuart Miles Goldman
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Publication number: 20120318311Abstract: A portable, foldable, and multifunctional mobility aid apparatus that assists a user in standing, sitting, and/or walking process. The apparatus has an integrated power source and is based on 4 wheels. Users can stand on it and drive it as an electric mobility device, or disable it and use it as a passive walker. The apparatus has a pair of supporting beams with adjustable width to be placed under the user armpits and support the user in standing up, sitting down, and/or moving around. The apparatus can be controlled by a control panel mounted on a pair of handles, and its functions can be controlled by the user with no need for help from another person. The apparatus can be minimized by a combination of multiple telescopic vertical minimization mechanisms and multiple folding mechanisms.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2012Publication date: December 20, 2012Inventor: Ahmad AlSayed M. Alghazi
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Patent number: 8333208Abstract: A collapsible walking device that can be disposed in an operative (open) configuration and a storage (closed) configuration. The open, operative configuration of the walking device provides a structure to aid a user in walking or standing. The closed, storage configuration allows for easy and convenient storage and transport of the walking device. The collapsible walking device can be transitioned from the operative configuration to the storage configuration in one motion. The walking device includes four support legs that extend to the ground from adjacent two handles.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2009Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Assignee: Stander Inc.Inventor: F. Troy Miller
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Publication number: 20120298160Abstract: A walker which can be used on stairs as well as on a level surface. The walker has legs which are comprised of hydraulic cylinders with integral pistons. Each pair of legs is part of a frame. The walker is configured such that each frame provides that fluid can flow from one leg of the frame to the other. Because the fluid is generally incompressible and the amount of fluid in each frame is fixed, movement of one piston of the frame causes the other piston of the frame to move. As such, as one leg of the frame lengthens, the other leg of the frame automatically shortens in response, and vise versa. While the walker is configured such that the legs can be shortened and lengthened, preferably the walker is also configured such that the legs can be locked in place.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2011Publication date: November 29, 2012Inventor: James T. Hamilton
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Patent number: 8267412Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a frame, a wheel pivotally connected to the frame, and a brake pad assembly. The assembly has a brake housing configured to partially cover the wheel. The assembly has a brake pad mechanism including a brake pad lever pivotally mounted to the housing. The brake pad lever is actuated via a first end and has a second end spaced-apart therefrom. The brake pad mechanism has a brake pad connected to the brake pad lever adjacent to the second end of the brake pad lever. The brake pad lever is spring-biased to position the brake pad spaced-apart from and adjacent to the wheel. The brake pad lever is configured to cause the brake pad to abut the wheel when the lever is actuated. The brake housing extends about the brake pad mechanism for fully protecting the brake pad mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.Inventor: Julian Liu
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Patent number: 8256442Abstract: The present invention relates to a tray for use with a walker. The tray includes a generally rigid tray base having an essentially rectangular shape with a front long side, a back long side, a first short side and a second short side, and wherein the tray has a length that extends to or past the essentially horizontal support member; a ridge extending along the sides of the tray, wherein the ridge has a height of at least about a ½inch; a strap having a hook and loop fastener wherein the strap is positioned at or near the back long end; and a first hinge and a second hinge, the first and second hinges are positioned, when the tray is in use, at or near the front leg of the first and second support, respectively. The length of the tray is greater that the distance between the support member of the first support and the support member of the second support; and the width of the tray is less than the length of the support member of the first support or second support.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: The Alice M. McCarthy Trust Amended and Restatement Dated July 8, 2004Inventor: Alice McCarthy
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Patent number: 8251079Abstract: A walker device is described herein including two side frames, each side frame comprising a front vertical support, a rear vertical support and at least one connecting member extending between the front and rear vertical supports. The walker device further includes a cross bar extending between the two side frames and pivotally connecting to the front vertical supports of the two side frames. The walker device also includes a tension device which applies a resistive force to the pivoting motion between the first cross bar and the two side frames. The walker device is therefore capable of a pivoting configuration which enables the user to learn or re-learn a more natural gait pattern including rotation of the upper and lower body. Some embodiments of the walker device include a second, auxiliary cross bar that is parallel to the first cross bar and horizontally offset from the first cross bar.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2010Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Inventors: Katherine Lutz, Charles A. Haik
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Patent number: 8251380Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a brake, a braking handle, a brake wire, a brake rod, and a brake rod assembly. A gripping member connects to the brake wire. The gripping member includes a plate having a first end, a second end and an aperture near the second end. The plate connects to the brake wire near the first end and the plate slidably receives the brake rod through the aperture near the second end. The gripping member includes a clamp that engages the brake wire via a set screw. The gripping member is spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod in a non-actuated mode. When the braking handle actuates the brake wire, the plate tilts with the first end elevating relative to the second end, thereby causing the plate to engage with and abut the brake rod for thereby actuating the brake rod to brake.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2011Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.Inventor: Julian Liu
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Patent number: 8245719Abstract: A walker with a tubular frame assembly has a pair of inverted U-shaped frame members each having a pair of legs. A front cross bar is attached to the frame members to maintain them in an upright position. A pair of side braces extend between the legs of the frame members. A combined tray-seat in a drawer shape is detachably mounted on the side braces. The side members of the tray-seat extend at least to the frame and side braces. Self-adhering strips on the front crossbar and tray-seat support the tray-seat vertically when the walker is moved. The tray-seat may have a hole in its front end and a broom clip on its rear end to support a cane. The hole also acts as a drain. A perforated platform on the combined tray-seat acts as a beverage holder.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2010Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Inventor: Avery Kirby
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Patent number: 8215652Abstract: The mobilizer consists of an open, inverted “U” shaped frame when view from above with the legs or the “U” pointed towards the rear. Pivoting caster wheels are attached to the front lower corners and rear wheel support arms extend rearward and curve downward each bearing a smaller non-pivoting wheel. Two vertical upright support members rise from the frame and are equipped with height adjustment mechanisms. Horizontal arm support assemblies, each with a hand grip and brake handle are attached to the upper ends of the support members. The user is supported by his elbows and shoulder girdle resulting in decompression of his spine. The arm support assemblies can be pivoted 180 degrees so that the grip portions and the hand brake levers face the rear of the mobilizer at about waist height. This allows the user to stand and grasp the handles as he walks forward.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Dashaway CompanyInventors: Stanley Dashew, Charles Blount
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Patent number: 8186367Abstract: A foldable walker includes upstanding legs arranged in a generally square pattern, each of which is capped by a fixed joint member and each of which has a slider member slideably disposed on it. Two forward legs are interconnected by two rigid links arranged in a scissors arrangement with the uppermost end of each link pivotally connected to a fixed joint member and the lowermost end of each link pivotally connected to a slider. Each forward leg is interconnected to its associated rearward leg in the same way. Each pair of rigid links is interconnected to one another by a pivot pin. The linkage enables the width and the depth of the walker to be reduced to a very small space and telescoping legs reduce the height dimension of the walker. Handles are folded when the walker is stored and pivoted into their operable position when the walker is deployed.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2010Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: University of South FloridaInventors: Tuan Le tran, Sukru Gokcek
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Patent number: 8172023Abstract: A personal mobility device comprising a frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupled to the front structure, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2011Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: JGI Holdings, LLCInventor: James Graham Irvine
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Patent number: 8166988Abstract: The medically equippable walker device provides numerous important features to aid a patient in ambulation and in personal medical equipment carriage. The inverted U's may provide wheels in front and feet in the rear so that a user can easily walk as desired, by tilting the walker off of the feet, and also maintain stability when stopped by allowing the feet to be firmly planted. One side of the device provides two cross rails that are ideal for the sleeves to slideably adjust for desired positioning of a ring and a basket to hold an oxygen tank securely. The second side inverted U holds like upper and lower cross rails with an adjustably positioned rail between. Any number of right angled supports are provided for the carriage of various medical equipment such as IV bags and urine bags, for example.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2011Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Inventor: Jody A. Martin
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Patent number: 8166987Abstract: A walker device including a walking aid and a lifting arm attached to, and extending in an approximate vertical direction from, the walking aid. The walking aid may include two front legs and two back legs. The walking aid may include two or more wheels attached to the bottom of the two front legs and/or two back legs. The walking aid may be a multiple-legged cane. The walking aid may be a wheeled mobility device. The lifting arm may include a gripping handle positioned at its approximate distal end.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: WeCare Products, Inc. USAInventor: Craig E. Weaver
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Patent number: 8151812Abstract: A sit down and stand up walker for assisting a user during walking and when not walking in a standing, partially standing or sitting positions with partial or full weight bearing support and with means to change from standing, partially standing to sitting positions with partial weight bearing support to a fixed elevation with full weight bearing support in any varied or repeated sequence. The partial or full weight bearing means supports a seat assembly which includes a seat and front body support with adjustable positioning to provide pelvic stability. The angle of the seat assembly relative to a flat ground surface is maintained at any elevation of the seat assembly between a standing and sitting position. The weight bearing means is responsive to the variable force supplied by the user as the user walks, stands or sits allowing the seat assembly to move up or down.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventor: Eli Razon
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Publication number: 20120042918Abstract: A mobility assistance device that employs a movable handle assembly and an extension support, both of which are movable between retracted and extended positions. The handle assembly is positioned when extended above a seating surface and provides leverage for a user to use his/her hands to assist in rising. The extendable support extends from a guide element along the floor beyond the center of gravity of the device and user to prevent tipping and to provide stability. When the extendable support and handle are disposed in the retracted position, the device is used like a typical cane, walker or rollator.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 18, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: TECHNOLOGY INNOVATORS INC.Inventor: Paul TESSIER
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Publication number: 20120000496Abstract: A sit down and stand up walker for assisting a user during walking and when not walking in a standing, partially standing or sitting positions with partial or full weight bearing support and with means to change from standing, partially standing to sitting positions with partial weight bearing support to a fixed elevation with full weight bearing support in any varied or repeated sequence. The partial or full weight bearing means supports a seat assembly which includes a seat and front body support with adjustable positioning to provide pelvic stability. The angle of the seat assembly relative to a flat ground surface is maintained at any elevation of the seat assembly between a standing and sitting position. The weight bearing means is responsive to the variable force supplied by the user as the user walks, stands or sits allowing the seat assembly to move up or down.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Inventor: Eli Razon
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Publication number: 20110315177Abstract: A multifunctional apparatus for facilitating walking and a method of using the apparatus. The apparatus includes a plurality of pole members, a handle, at least a first grip member, and a second grip member, the first grip member is arranged to allow a user of the apparatus to move stably and the second grip member is arranged to allow a user of the apparatus to participate in a rigorous activity, and one or more ground contact members, The front pole members are connected through a connection member configured to allow the apparatus to be easily collapsed and/or disassembled. The grip members are removably connectable to the pole member at a first end of the pole member, and the one or more ground contact members are removably connectable to the pole member at a second end of the pole member.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2010Publication date: December 29, 2011Applicant: INTERCHANGEABLE MEDICAL WALKING STICKS LLCInventors: Brian McGann, Gregory Foweraker, Shaye McGann, Kate Dulac, Justin Aiello
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Patent number: 8083239Abstract: A foldable walker apparatus includes a pair of spaced-apart inner frame members of two parts each hinged together, with a pair of link members diagonally extending therebetween. Each link has a bend extending upwardly and outwardly. The walker has support members that are arc-shaped with a seat extending between their apexes. A collapsible basket is provided with two end members each having a rigid peripheral portion connecting the frame members and a basket member of flexible fabric extending therebetween. A self-adjusting brake rod is provided with a gripping member spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod until the gripping member is operatively actuated to engage and thereby actuate the brake rod. A brake housing fully extends around a brake pad mechanism, including a means for connecting and adjusting the corresponding brake pad, to at least the outer periphery of one of the wheels for fully protecting the brake pad mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2008Date of Patent: December 27, 2011Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.Inventor: Julian Liu
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Patent number: 8061376Abstract: A posterior walker is disclosed comprising: a foldable, tubular frame; adjustable handles; wheels including anti-rollback wheels in the back and pivoting wheels in the front; a flexible, adjustable lower back support strap; features to adjust the handling and stability of the walker, to meet the mobility and standing needs of persons with unsteady gait and standing posture, namely an adjustable weighting means; and optionally backpack storage. In one embodiment, the adjustable weighting means is provided by use of weighted stability cuffs.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation HospitalInventors: Stephen Ryan, Susan Hardy, William Johnson, Michael Doell
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Publication number: 20110272913Abstract: An adjustable walker includes first and second side frames. Each side frame includes a front leg defining a fixed end and a free end and a rear leg defining a fixed end and a free end. The legs are coupled to one another at the fixed ends thereof and are extendable between a first position defining a first length and a second position defining a second length greater than the first length. Each leg includes a locking mechanism for releasably fixing the leg in each of the first and second positions. A side brace is coupled to the front and rear legs and includes a side rail extending transversely therebetween. The side brace is moveable along the legs between the fixed ends and the free ends thereof. The side brace includes a latching mechanism for releasably fixing the position of the side brace with respect to the legs.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2011Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: Drive Medical Design & Mfg.Inventor: Harvey Diamond
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Patent number: 8038159Abstract: A transport cart for attaching to a patient care apparatus having a locking system that converts the forward caster of the transport cart from an omni-directional pivotable caster to a fixed directional device by restraining its pivoting about a vertical axis. The forward caster is located at about the center of the footprint of the combined transport cart/patient care apparatus and the fixed directional movement of the forward caster provides stability in moving the combined apparatus. The locking mechanism may be internal to the caster or may have a pair of pivotable lock arms that contact the patient care apparatus as the two are brought together and the pivotable lock arms pivot to a locked position where they sandwich the caster therebetween to restrain its ability to pivot. The locking mechanism automatically or manually releases the forward caster to again freely pivot when the transport cart/patient care apparatus are separated.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2011Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Steven M. Falk, Roopesh Edavana
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Publication number: 20110241303Abstract: Walkers whose handgrips permit users to maintain a generally upright posture while walking with the walker. The handgrips are oriented vertically instead of horizontally and are positioned on the walker such that when the walker and the user are standing on a surface, the user's forearm is angled slightly downward and the vertical grip has an angle which is substantially the same as the angle of the user's hand as determined by the downward angle of the user's forearm.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2011Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventor: Ronald B. Campbell
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Publication number: 20110232665Abstract: Provided in some embodiments is a portable personal support system and method of providing the same. In some embodiments, provided is a portable personal support including a frame having a support member of sufficient height to be grasped by a human while in a standing position. The frame including a three-sided barrier having at least one front barrier portion to be disposed in front of user during use and at least two side barrier portions to be disposed on either side of the user during use. At least one of the barrier portions includes a first panel portion and a second panel portion complementary to the first panel portion coupled to one another to form an integral barrier portion. At least a portion of the first panel portion includes a first edge portion, and at least a portion of the second panel includes a second edge portion complementary to the first edge portion that engage one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2010Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: James R. Barnett, JR.
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Publication number: 20110232708Abstract: A walker having a frame and wheel system for use indoors or outdoors, with a wheel assemblies allowing for maintaining substantially level performance over uneven surfaces or obstacles. The wheel assembly includes four wheels in a triple pivot, dual offset configuration. With three pivots and the offset axle configuration, the wheel assemblies allow for substantially even contact with all four wheels of the assembly, with weight substantially balanced on each of the four wheels, during use over uneven surfaces, obstacles, or irregularities.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2011Publication date: September 29, 2011Inventor: James Martin Kemp
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Patent number: 7992584Abstract: A walker with wheels that are retracted upon the application of a force of predetermined magnitude to permit a user to move the walker when he or she partially leans on the walker while providing a solid anchored support if he or she leans with more weight exceeding a predetermined magnitude. The walker includes a structural elongated assembly with a handle and forearm cuff at one end. The other end is rigidly mounted to two base assemblies that are kept at a parallel and spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. The base assemblies have a bottom surface. Retractable wheels are mounted to the base assemblies. The wheels are spring biased to protrude beyond the bottom surface so that they support the walker when at rest and as long as the user does not apply a force that exceeds a predetermined magnitude.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2010Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Inventor: Bernardo Birnbaum
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Patent number: 7988163Abstract: The present invention relates to a balance compensation apparatus to be used by persons with one dysfunctional leg and one operative leg. In particular, the invention relates to an apparatus with a frame having at least one lateral support with an aperture for slidably engaging a kneeling platform assembly and a steering column that is mounted on the frame to be offset from a longitudinal centerline of the frame. A handlebar is connected to the steering column. The platform and the handlebar are adjustable for added comfort, control and stability. The platform assembly may be offset of the longitudinal centerline to a side in common with the steering column and have cushions for added comfort. A hand brake may provide stability and safety and the steering column may fold for easy storage.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Inventor: Roderick W. Accetta
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Patent number: 7984724Abstract: A walker is fitted with a utility bag having pockets on both a front side and a rear side of the bag. Panels are removably attached to the front of the bag. Each one of the panels of a set of panels provides utility messages and illustrations to improve the navigation and safety of the walker most importantly, when the user has poor vision or hearing. The panels may also have illustrations related to sports, hobbies, and serious messages. Generally, the panels provide a novel approach to personalizing the walker.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2009Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventor: Eric Eberle
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Patent number: 7980263Abstract: The present invention relates to a tray for use with a walker. The tray includes a generally rigid tray base having an essentially rectangular shape with a front long side, a back long side, a first short side and a second short side, and wherein the tray has a length that extends to or past the essentially horizontal support member; a ridge extending along the sides of the tray, wherein the ridge has a height of at least about a ½ inch; a strap having a hook and loop fastener wherein the strap is positioned at or near the back long end; and a first hinge and a second hinge, the first and second hinges are positioned, when the tray is in use, at or near the front leg of the first and second support, respectively. The length of the tray is greater that the distance between the support member of the first support and the support member of the second support; and the width of the tray is less than the length of the support member of the first support or second support.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2010Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: The Alice M. McCarthy TrustInventor: Alice McCarthy
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Publication number: 20110146736Abstract: A walker has a wheel rotatably mounted to the lower end of each of a pair of front legs, each wheel having a series of end to end smaller diameter rollers mounted about the axis of wheels 10 define an outer perimeter of said wheels to allow easier turning of the walker without applying a lift force to the front legs while maintaining a tendency for the walker to track in a forward direction when a turning force is not applied.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: Ellen S. Pfafflin
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Patent number: 7963294Abstract: An assistive walker for assisting a user in going on foot and for reinforcing recommended walker use technique includes a walker frame including opposed leading and trailing ends formed between opposed handled and footed ends and that together define a user-receiving area extending from the trailing end of the walker frame to the leading end of the walker frame, and the walker frame is for supporting a user in the user-receiving area and aiding ambulation thereof. The walker frame is formed with a motion sensor apparatus including a motion sensor assembly to detect user movement at the user-receiving area, and a signal device operatively coupled to the motion sensor assembly to emit the signal in response to a substantial lack of detected user movement at the user-receiving area.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2010Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Inventor: William G. Trout
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Patent number: 7959545Abstract: An apparatus comprised of: a base unit having a top portion and a bottom portion; a leg supporting structure on the top portion at an angle and adapted to receive the lower portion of a user's leg; one or more temporary securing member(s) to temporarily secure the user's leg to the leg supporting platform; and at least one rolling member positioned below the bottom portion, such that the user is able to move using a free leg and the apparatus without the use of hands.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Inventor: Dmitry Olexenko
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Patent number: 7954828Abstract: A transport cart for attaching to a patient care apparatus having a locking system that converts the forward caster of the transport cart from an omni-directional pivotable caster to a fixed directional device by restraining its pivoting about a vertical axis. The forward caster is located at about the center of the footprint of the combined transport cart/patient care apparatus and the fixed directional movement of the forward caster provides stability in moving the combined apparatus. The locking mechanism may be internal to the caster or may have a pair of pivotable lock arms that contact the patient care apparatus as the two are brought together and the pivotable lock arms pivot to a locked position where they sandwich the caster therebetween to restrain its ability to pivot. The locking mechanism automatically or manually releases the forward caster to again freely pivot when the transport cart/patient care apparatus are separated.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2008Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Steven M. Falk, Roopesh Edavana
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Patent number: 7950405Abstract: The invention is an Enhanced Patient Mobility Apparatus for use by ambulatory or recovering patients. The Enhanced Mobility Apparatus is fabricated from sturdy tubular material and has a lower U-shaped base frame member mounted on casters with an upwardly extending mid frame member and two vertical supports attached thereto and each also attached at its lower extremity to the lower U-shaped base frame member. The U-shaped base frame member, the mid frame member and the two vertical supports define a walking space for the patient with provision for the possibility of the patient also being able to move about with oxygen tanks, a patient intravenous drip apparatus and other medical devices and apparatus which must be transported by an ambulatory patient.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2009Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Inventors: David B Turner, Ralph Myers
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Publication number: 20110118898Abstract: A rehabilitation device includes a moving body, a motor, a control system and a sensor module. The moving body has a housing and a moving mechanism. The motor, disposed in the housing, connects to the moving mechanism and drives the moving mechanism. The control system is disposed in the housing and coupled to the motor. The sensor module is disposed on the moving body and coupled to the control module. The control system controls the operation of the motor to move the moving body according to information detected by the sensor module.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 11, 2010Publication date: May 19, 2011Applicant: NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITYInventors: Li-Chen FU, Hung-Yu LIN, Christopher YOUNG, Jia-Yuan YU
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Patent number: 7942833Abstract: A device for inducing a user's motion in a rhythm responsive to a motion rhythm after the user's motion rhythm changes suddenly. The walking assist device generates a first oscillator which attains mutual entrainment with a user's hip joint angular velocity to reflect a natural angular velocity. On the other hand, a new natural angular velocity is set based on the phase difference between the hip joint angular velocity and the first oscillator. A second oscillator which oscillates in rhythm reflecting the natural angular velocity is generated. An inducing oscillator is generated based on the second oscillator, and a torque responsive to the inducing oscillator acts on the user's body. If the magnitude of a periodic variation in the hip joint angular velocity exceeds a threshold value, a second oscillator which oscillates in rhythm reflecting the angular velocity of the first oscillator instead of the natural angular velocity is generated.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ken Yasuhara
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Patent number: 7938756Abstract: A powered mobile lifting, gait training and omnidirectional rolling apparatus is for personal use by persons with complete loss of motor function in lower limbs for assisted walking in an upright position in desired direction of indoor and outdoor. All operations including bringing the apparatus to a user, ingress, walking around and egress are performed by users without assistance of other persons. The apparatus lifts the user from a floor, wheelchair or elevated surface, its overall size enables passing through narrow passageways, and omnidirectional wheels provide top maneuverability. Rotation of powered omnidirectional wheels is coordinated with motion of gait stimulation devices that drive user's feet, resulting in simulated walk.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2007Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventors: Roy Rodetsky, Olga Rodetsky
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Publication number: 20110094550Abstract: A compressible wheel tip for a walking aid that restricts rolling when a force is applied down on the walking aid. The tip may have a compressible wheel configured to deform under an applied pressure and thereby restrict shifting or rolling of the wheel. The compressible wheel may include rigid spokes and a compressible material forming an arcuate perimeter between the spokes to define a wheel shape. The compressible material may be a resilient elastomeric material adapted to deform under an applied force and return to its original shape when the force is no longer applied. The spokes may be formed of plastic or metal, or formed of the same material as the spokes and structured to better resist deformation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Applicant: STANDER, INC.Inventor: F. Troy Miller