Crutches Patents (Class 135/68)
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Patent number: 8146614Abstract: A beverage holder attachment for a crutch has an annular cup holder portion and two molded C-shaped protrusions for snapping onto two side rails of a crutch. The cup holder has a vertical slot on the outside to accommodate a handle of a mug or cup. The cup holder sits in between the two rails of the crutch below the hand bar so that it does not interfere with the use of the hand bar. The cup holder is tilted slightly to avoid spillage on the user of the crutches, so that any coffee drips will spill on the outside of the crutch. The beverage holder can be snapped onto the crutch side rails to carry beverages or other objects around the home or office while on crutches. The beverage holder can be made out of plastic, rubber or any other molded material that will snap onto the crutch.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Inventors: Donna Ford, Jack Ford
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Patent number: 8146615Abstract: A crutch device adapted for use as a leg support featuring a crutch frame with an underarm pad, a handle, and a bottom shaft; a leg support bar pivotally attached to the shaft, the leg support bar can move between a vertical position wherein the leg support bar is positioned above the shaft inside the crutch frame and a horizontal position wherein the leg support bar is pivoted out of the crutch frame and generally perpendicularly to the shaft; and a two-legged support component pivotally attached to the leg support bar, the two-legged support component can move between a storage position and a usage position wherein the two-legged support component is pivoted such that it is generally perpendicular to the leg support bar, wherein the support component is adapted to be received in the crutch frame when the support component is in the storage position.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Inventor: Yeniel Rodriguez
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Patent number: 8069869Abstract: A crutch has a standing unit, an armpit rest and a grip unit. The standing unit has a top, a foot and multiple positioning holes defined between the top and the foot. The armpit rest is mounted on the top of the standing unit. The grip unit transversally attached to the standing unit has a grip, two positioning bases and two pins. The grip has two ends each having a recess, a pin hole and a limiting portion. Each positioning base has two insertions each having a limiting notch and a hook. When the positioning base engages the recess, the limiting notches combine with the limiting portions and the pin inserts into one corresponding positioning hole. When the positioning base is released from the recess, the limiting notches disengage from the limiting portions, the pin disengages from the positioning hole, and the hook combines with the limiting portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2010Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: Miao-Yuan Huang
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Patent number: 8056571Abstract: Aspects of the inventive technology include, in various embodiments, novel ambulation assistance apparatus with upper and lower force absorbers, perhaps with different displacement per force rates, novel crutches or canes that are convertable and/or foldable, and novel axilla area force receivers that may conform to part of a user's thorax, for use as part of a crutch.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Propel MobilityInventor: Steven A. DeLacé
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Publication number: 20110005559Abstract: An improved crutch assembly and walking aid is provided. The crutch assembly can be retrofitted to an existing walking aid and provides spring assisted motion. The assembly includes a ball-in-socket joint and a spring operably connecting the joint to a walking aid shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2008Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventor: Jesse Daily
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Publication number: 20100229903Abstract: A walking assistance device is disclosed that includes a support member having a first end and a second end. Attached to the support member is a hand grip, and attached to the second end is a base member. The base member includes a rounded surface that is configured to rotatably pivot relative to a walking surface as a user walks. The base member may further include a foot portion that has a toe and a heel. The toe and the heel may be the same length, or alternatively they may have varying lengths. Additionally, a pad is optionally attached to the foot portion and may be configured with tread to engage the walking surface in a way that provides traction to the walking assistance device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2009Publication date: September 16, 2010Inventors: Mario Ozuna, Adam Ozuna
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Publication number: 20100206348Abstract: The crutch includes a lower pole with a handgrip near the upper end thereof, and may include a forearm cuff above the handgrip in the case of a forearm type crutch. The distance between cuff and handgrip is adjustable, as is the lower pole length. A resilient limb or bow is rigidly affixed to the lower end of the pole, with its upper attachment end being rearwardly offset from the pole. This results in a forward torque or moment when the user applies a downward force upon the crutch during use, thereby assisting the user in forward travel. The lower or distal end of the limb also absorbs shock for the crutch user when the limb contacts the underlying surface. The springback of the limb returns a considerable portion of the energy imparted by the user as weight was applied to the crutch, thereby facilitating user mobility.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2009Publication date: August 19, 2010Inventor: Demetrios Markou
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Patent number: 7743778Abstract: A combined cane and urination aid for use by a male person is disclosed. The combination includes a cane having a support handle and at least two elongated support members extending downwardly therefrom. The support members are spaced apart along their length. The urination aid is retained between the elongated support members of the cane and includes a channel portion having an inlet end, a discharge end, and a length. The inlet end of the channel portion is shaped for receiving a flow of discharged urine. The channel portion conveys the flow away from the person so it may exit the discharge end of the channel portion at a sufficient distance to prevent splashed urine from reaching the person's body or clothes.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2009Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventors: Clarence George Hare, Christine Ann Byrne, legal representative
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Publication number: 20100071738Abstract: A hand based weight distribution system which utilizes a knuckle support platform and knuckle support surface to allow the user to place his or her knuckles on said surface, preferably concurrently grasping a handle and thereby support part or all of the weight of the user without placing undue pressure on the hand of the user or the handle of the body support apparatus. Included are a knuckle support platform, knuckle support surface, support structure with a first end disposed to engage the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2009Publication date: March 25, 2010Inventor: Jeffrey D. Evans
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Patent number: 7673640Abstract: A crutch-like mobility assist device includes a vertical support assembly, a footer assembly attached to a lower connection member of the vertical support assembly, and a tiltable underarm support mechanism connected to an upper connection member of the vertical support assembly, the tiltable underarm support mechanism including a base plate which is rotatable relative to the vertical support assembly, a saddle, and two damper devices between the base plate and the saddle which enable the saddle to tilt forwardly and rearwardly, as well as laterally relative to the vertical support assembly. The tiltable underarm support mechanism is itself usable on crutches of conventional construction.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2006Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: University of MarylandInventors: Henry W. Haslach, Jr., James R. Borrelli
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Publication number: 20100051075Abstract: Devices and methods are presented to provide a seating area on a common crutch. The convertible seat is low profile and maintained flat on a side of the crutch until needed. It may be opened easily and placed flat on the floor to provide the user with a convenient sitting or table area.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2009Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: Anahita Jamshidi
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Patent number: 7621288Abstract: A hand based weight distribution system which utilizes a knuckle support platform and knuckle support surface to allow the user to place his or her knuckles on said surface, preferably concurrently grasping a handle and thereby support part or all of the weight of the user without placing undue pressure on the hand of the user or the handle of the body support apparatus. Included are a knuckle support platform, knuckle support surface, support structure with a first end disposed to engage the ground.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Inventor: Jeffrey D. Evans
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Publication number: 20090250088Abstract: An ergonomic crutch comprising an armpit pad assembly, a top tube, a middle tube, a bottom tube, a hand grip, a shock absorber, and a footpad assembly. The armpit pad assembly comprises an armpit pad and means for allowing the armpit pad to tilt vertically and swivel horizontally. In an alternate embodiment, the crutch does not have a shock absorber.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2008Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventors: Clay Gibbons, Stephen Sanford, David Yakos
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Patent number: 7591275Abstract: The invention is for a handle body for a crutch used to aid a person in walking on a walking surface. The handle body includes a generally cylindrical palm grip about which a user wraps his hand to grip the handle assembly, a generally vertical front post, a generally vertical rear post, a web upon which the web of the hand of the person rests when the person grips the handle body, and a thumb rest upon which the person positions a thumb to more securely grip the handle body and to physiologically and psychologically encourage the person to refrain from engaging in twisting and rolling motions of the hands and wrist. The thumb rest is a contoured ridge integrally formed on a side of the handle body.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Inventor: William H. Baker
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Publication number: 20090229643Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein that provide for a leg supporting crutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2008Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventors: Sharalyn S. Ramm, Joel N. Smith, Jacqueline Cardinali
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Publication number: 20090199885Abstract: The invention is a shoulder support for a crutch having a pair of upper tubes that slide inside a pair of lower tubes. The shoulder support includes tube caps that are supported at a top of the upper tubes and a channel section positioned between the tube caps and attached to the tube caps by a bolt. A shoulder spring is bent into a bow-tie shape with two loops and a narrow portion. A crutch user positions his underarm atop the shoulder spring to support his weight, and the shoulder spring loops deflect outwardly when a user bears his weight on the crutch. The shoulder support includes a resilient shoulder pad that covers the shoulder spring to protect skin beneath arms of the user from scraping and chafing. Two rivets secure the narrow portion of the shoulder spring to the channel section at a top of the channel section.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2009Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventor: William H. Baker
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Patent number: 7537017Abstract: The invention is a shoulder support for a crutch having a pair of upper tubes that slide inside a pair of lower tubes. The shoulder support includes tube caps that are supported at a top of the upper tubes and a channel section positioned between the tube caps and attached to the tube caps by a bolt. A shoulder spring is bent into a bow-tie shape with two loops and a narrow portion. A crutch user positions his underarm atop the shoulder spring to support his weight, and the shoulder spring loops deflect outwardly when a user bears his weight on the crutch. The shoulder support includes a resilient shoulder pad that covers the shoulder spring to protect skin beneath arms of the user from scraping and chafing. Two rivets secure the narrow portion of the shoulder spring to the channel section at a top of the channel section.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2007Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Inventor: William H. Baker
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Patent number: 7490618Abstract: A forearm crutch cover that provides padding in the forearm cradle to increase the comfort of the user and covers the pivoting attachment junction that attaches the forearm cradle to the pole of the forearm crutch to help prevent injury or damage caused at the pivoting attachment junction when the forearm cradle is moved. The cover may also include a forearm strap to prevent the cradle from slipping off the arm. An elastic tongue may act as a reset for cradle to prevent the cradle from falling downward and allows easy access to the cradle for the user.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2007Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: DeMay Med, LLC Mo. Corp.Inventors: Shirley DeMay, Neil Westbrooks
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Publication number: 20090014043Abstract: Aspects of the inventive technology include, in various embodiments, novel ambulation assistance apparatus with upper and lower force absorbers, perhaps with different displacement per force rates, novel crutches or canes that are convertable and/or foldable, and novel axilla area force receivers that may conform to part of a user's thorax, for use as part of a crutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 13, 2007Publication date: January 15, 2009Inventor: Steven A. DeLace
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Publication number: 20080314426Abstract: Provided is a crutch that may be collapsed for storage and shipment, adjustable for different users and mitigates the affect of the enrich striking the ground. A saddle support surface is coupled to two rails that extend and slide through a handrail and a wishbone. The rails may be secured with respect to the handrail and wishbone in a variety of positions, enabling the distance between the support surface and the handgrip and the length of the crutch to be adjusted. In addition, the rails may be positioned in the handrail and wishbone such that the support surface fits against the handrail and the handrail against the wishbone. A shock tube extends from and slides through the wishbone and may be secured in a variety of positions to adjust the length of the crutch to account for different users and to minimize the length for storage and shipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventor: Hector Mark Estrada, JR.
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Publication number: 20080229561Abstract: Disclosed is a fastener for use on or with a pair of crutches; crutches joined through use of the fastener form a self-stable geometry which permits the crutches to stand without support. The fastener is inexpensive, easy to use, and may be included on or with a wide range of different crutch types. Crutches so equipped provide benefits to users, who find it easier to store crutches without having to lay the crutches down.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2007Publication date: September 25, 2008Inventor: Robert Hondel
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Publication number: 20080163914Abstract: A crutch having a first side direction, a second side direction opposite the first side direction, a third side direction perpendicular to the first side direction and a fourth side direction opposite the third side direction, the crutch including an elongate leg having a top end, a top portion, a middle portion, a bottom portion, and a bottom end, wherein the elongate leg extends from a saddle to a foot and has a handle disposed on the middle portion, wherein the saddle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the handle extends in an elongate shape between the first side direction and the second side direction, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the third side direction of an axis extending between the leg and the foot, wherein the elongate leg middle portion is to the first side direction of an axis extending between the top end of the elongate leg and the bottom end of the elongate leg; and wherein the handle is cantilevered and has aType: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Jeffrey A. Weber, Shawn Monitor, Michael Grider
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Patent number: 7395829Abstract: A shock absorber conversion kit, for a crutch of the type having a tubular main body and an extension member secured to and fitting within the main body, the kit having a first abutment attachable to the main body, a second abutment attachable to the extension member, a resilient device which can be positioned between the first abutment and second abutment, so that pressure on the main body will cause telescoping movement of the extension member into the main body and will stress the resilient device, and release of pressure will permit movement of the extension member out of the main body and will relax such stress. Also disclosed is a shock absorber crutch in which an extension member is slidable into and out of a main body, and is controlled by a resilient action.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Inventor: Richard R. Chapman
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Patent number: 7364560Abstract: An ambulatory hip fixation-traction splint frame includes a supporting frame having an upper end arranged for positioning below an armpit of a treated patient and a lower end arranged for positioning below a hip portion of the treated patient, and a side splint assembly for supporting a side body of the treated patient. The side splint assembly includes a flexible guiding frame having first and second ends, and a curved guiding surface, having a predetermined curvature, defining between the first and second ends for biasing against the side body of the treated patient, and two coupling joints adjustably mounted on the supporting frame to connect with the first and second ends of the guiding frame respectively so as to retain the curvature of the guiding surface of the guiding frame for fitting on the side body of the treated patient.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Ming-Hua Wang
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Patent number: 7357139Abstract: A stair-adjustable crutch characterized by an adjusting cuff having a cone with an elongated or extended, flared and offset lip and lip receptacle provided in the crutch foot to facilitate selective angular adjustment of the crutch foot and frame from an aligned configuration. This adjustment is effected by manipulation of a rod fitted with a pair of spaced-apart, wishbone-shaped legs extending into the cone, which legs are provided with shaped tabs or locks for selectively entering and exiting spaced-apart sets of vertical and angled slots in the cone of the adjusting cuff. Up and down movement of the adjusting rod facilitates both selective conventional operation of the crutch with the crutch foot in linear alignment, and angling of the crutch frame and upper crutch foot at the adjusting cuff with respect to the crutch foot below the adjusting cuff, to adjust the user's weight and more safely ascend and descend steps and stairs.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Inventor: Henry K. Bonin, Jr.
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Publication number: 20080035190Abstract: The invention is a shoulder support for a crutch having a pair of upper tubes that slide inside a pair of lower tubes. The shoulder support includes tube caps that are supported at a top of the upper tubes and a channel section positioned between the tube caps and attached to the tube caps by a bolt. A shoulder spring is bent into a bow-tie shape with two loops and a narrow portion. A crutch user positions his underarm atop the shoulder spring to support his weight, and the shoulder spring loops deflect outwardly when a user bears his weight on the crutch. The shoulder support includes a resilient shoulder pad that covers the shoulder spring to protect skin beneath arms of the user from scraping and chafing. Two rivets secure the narrow portion of the shoulder spring to the channel section at a top of the channel section.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2007Publication date: February 14, 2008Inventor: WILLIAM H. BAKER
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Patent number: 7303537Abstract: An ambulation assistance device is provided with a leg support that releasably secures to an individual's leg and supports the leg in a positively flexed position. An elongated pylon extends downwardly from the leg support and may be hinged at the point of connection to simulate the mechanics of the individual's knee during ambulation. A resilient rearward brace may be used to bias the pylon toward a standing position. A forward brace may be provided to limit over extension of the pylon. A foot member may be pivotably coupled with the distal end of the pylon to simulate the mechanics of the individual's ankle during ambulation. A resilient brace may bias the foot member toward a standing position.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventors: Jean M. Snyder, Roger L. Snyder
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Patent number: 7255120Abstract: Apparatuses and methods assist in mobility of a person. According to an embodiment of the invention, a device for enhancing mobility of a physically-impaired person comprises: a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and a second member that is configured to slidably receive the elongated portion of the first member and to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member. According to another embodiment of the invention, there is a method for producing an apparatus for assisting in ambulation. The method comprises the steps of: providing a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and providing a second member, including: forming a recess in the second member for slidably receiving the elongated portion of the first member; and tapering the recess to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2003Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Hessa Medical, Inc.Inventors: Jesus Garza, Sr., Richard W. Benner, Jeremy Gin, Jerry Gin
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Patent number: 7243667Abstract: A crutch has dual spaced apart upright struts, each providing vertically spaced apart fastener receivers. A sleeve of a flexible and elastic material has an open top and bottom rims. A side wall of the sleeve converges downwardly with the open top rim larger than the bottom rim. A pair of opposing outer panels of a flexible and abrasion resistant material are sewn conformingly exterior to the sleeve. At least one of the outer panels provides an open notch adjacent the open top rim so as to better enable the open top rim of the sleeve to be expanded for receiving articles into the apparatus for carrying. A pair of fasteners are fixed in opposing positions adjacent to the open top rim, the fasteners engaged with the fastener receivers of the crutch for holding the carry bag on the crutch.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2004Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Inventor: Dan Floriani
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Patent number: 7204262Abstract: A forearm crutch cover that provides padding in the forearm cradle to increase the comfort of the user and covers the pivoting attachment junction that attaches the forearm cradle to the pole of the forearm crutch to help prevent injury or damage caused at the pivoting attachment junction when the forearm cradle is moved.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: DeMay Med, LLCInventors: Shirley DeMay, Neil Westbrooks
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Patent number: 7007704Abstract: A convertible cane assembly comprises a pair of canes which can be used separately by a cane user. The canes include connections for securing the canes in side-by-side relation to provide a single cane which can be used in a normal manner. An important feature of the connections is the ability to easily separate the canes. In the single cane version, loads are preferably transferred through the entire length of both canes, meaning that the connections do not have to carry substantial loads.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Inventor: David G. Luckstead
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Patent number: 6959716Abstract: A bicycle seat supported generally by a tubular V-shaped configuration with an offset seat post to allow for padded leg cradle supports, padded handles and adjusting handle grip bars. The bottom of the ergonomically designed offset walker frame has an adjustable rubber tip for height adjustment. The seat is on a fixed top post. The position can be adjusted up and down in height, forward and back and front to back. Using the handle grips the user can straddle the bicycle seat and rest the injured limb on the leg cradle supports without having to strap the injured limb to the walker frame. The walker frame has been ergonomically designed for balance. The tubular construction is comprised of a number of offsetting bends and spacers, which offset the leg cradle to the proper distance for comfort and balance.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2000Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Inventor: Joseph Francis Schrader
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Patent number: 6932095Abstract: A crutch support system including a pair of crutches is disclosed. Each crutch includes a pair of support shafts. Each support shaft includes a plurality of hand grip adjustment holes and a seat support pin received in hand grip adjustment holes in each support shaft pair. A seat is releasably connected to the seat support pins.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2004Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventors: Chaon Hanson, Scott Hanson
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Patent number: 6932096Abstract: The present invention relates to an ordinary crutch modified with a straight support which may be formed from a solid, lightweight tubular member, said support connected at one end to near the bottom portion of the crutch and with a bicycle pedal-like cushion on the other end for which the calf, shin or cast of the injured leg or leg of the injured foot rests. Since the pedal can freely revolve from its attachment to the solid support member, the angle at which the leg rests on the pedal relative to the crutch may be readily optimized for the patient's comfort in order to relieve pain and discomfort. Also, fatigue from the body when supporting the dangling leg may be avoided as the leg no longer dangles with its concomitant “dead weight”, because the entire weight of the leg is resting on the cushion of the leg support, the knee is flexed or extended while standing, or while sifting.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Tessanie Marie Marek
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Patent number: 6913587Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable support that may be telescopically extendable, coarsely and finely adjustable, and providing a mechanical advantage while being readily transportable. The adjustable support may have two to three telescoping members that nest inside one another when not is use, and may be triangular, rectangular, or circular in cross section. The adjustable support may be used as a traction splint, a walking stick, ski pole, or a crutch.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2000Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: Science & Technology Corporation @ UNMInventor: Samuel Slishman
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Patent number: 6802326Abstract: A crutch 1 has vertical support pipes 2,3, a slider 10 slidably mounted on the support pipes 2,3, a grip 11 mounted on the slider 10, and a slider support system 12 for supporting the slider 10. The slider support system 12 has a movable vertical pipe 31, a fixed vertical pipe 32, a fixing pin 33 provided on the movable vertical pipe 31, and height adjustment holes 34(1) to 34(5) formed in the fixed vertical pipe 32. By changing the height adjustment hole with which the fixing pin 33 is engaged, the height of the grip 11 can be adjusted. No holes must be formed in the vertical support pipes 2,3 for constituting a crutch main body, and height adjustment can be carried out by manipulating only one fixing pin 33.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Fuji Pharmaceuticals Ltd.Inventor: Yukiko Kusama
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Publication number: 20040112415Abstract: A two legged crutch having a thigh cradle and a shin cradle to allow hands free ambulation by holding the hip joint and knee of an injured leg in a bent attitude to transfer weight directly to the ischium.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2002Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventors: Khalil C. Shamieh, Edward A. Shamieh
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Publication number: 20040069336Abstract: The present invention relates to an ordinary crutch modified with a straight support which may be formed from a solid, lightweight tubular member, said support connected at one end to near the bottom portion of the crutch and with a bicycle pedal-like cushion on the other end for which the calf, shin or cast of the injured leg or leg of the injured foot rests. Since the pedal can freely revolve from its attachment to the solid support member, the angle at which the leg rests on the pedal relative to the crutch may be readily optimized for the patient's comfort in order to relieve pain and discomfort. Also, fatigue from the body when supporting the dangling leg may be avoided as the leg no longer dangles with its concomitant “dead weight”, because the entire weight of the leg is resting on the cushion of the leg support, the knee is flexed or extended while standing, or while sifting.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2002Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventor: Tessanie Marie Marek
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Publication number: 20040055629Abstract: A hand based weight distribution system which utilizes a knuckle support platform and knuckle support surface to allow the user to place his or her knuckles on said surface, preferably concurrently grasping a handle and thereby support part or all of the weight of the user without placing undue pressure on the hand of the user or the handle of the body support apparatus. Included are a knuckle support platform, knuckle support surface, support structure with a first end disposed to engage the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2002Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventor: Jeffrey D. Evans
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Publication number: 20040025919Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a ground contact article for connecting onto a bottom tip portion of a mobility assistance device comprises: a body that includes a resilient material as a structural basis and that includes a top end and a bottom surface, the bottom surface for engaging the ground. The body is configured to include at least one collapsing region, configured to permit a peripheral portion of the body to collapse more readily than a central portion of the body to thereby permit the bottom surface to remain flush with the ground even when the mobility assistance device is moved such that angle between the mobility assistance device and the ground is changed substantially. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing a ground contact article.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventor: Jesus Garza
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Publication number: 20040025923Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for assisting ambulation comprises: a first member; a second member adjustably connected to the first member, the first and second members together spanning an adjustable height; and at least one tab, integrally formed on the first member, that, when engaged, opposes adjustment of the adjustable height. According to another embodiment, a method for producing an apparatus for assisting in mobility comprises: forming a first member including integrally forming a stop on the first member, wherein the stop is not merely a bore through the first member; providing a second member; and adjustably connecting the second member to the first member, wherein the first and second members together span an adjustable height, and wherein the stop is configured as capable of being engaged to oppose relative motion against the second member to thereby oppose adjustment of the adjustable height.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jeremy Gin, Jerry Gin
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Publication number: 20040025926Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a crutch comprises a crutch body having an upper end and a lower end, the lower end for engaging the ground during ambulation; and a variable-spring-rate spring coupled to the crutch body to provide shock absorption for the crutch, wherein the spring provides greater spring rate with increased compression of the spring. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for producing an apparatus for assisting ambulation of a person comprises: providing at least one member that supports some weight of the person in the course of using the apparatus; and forming a material of lower durometer than the at least one member, wherein the material, at each of multiple points along an axis of compression, has substantially non-equal thickness perpendicular to the axis of compression.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
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Publication number: 20040025924Abstract: Apparatuses and methods assist in mobility of a person. According to an embodiment of the invention, a device for enhancing mobility of a physically-impaired person comprises: a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and a second member that is configured to slidably receive the elongated portion of the first member and to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member. According to another embodiment of the invention, there is a method for producing an apparatus for assisting in ambulation. The method comprises the steps of: providing a first member that comprises an elongated portion; and providing a second member, including: forming a recess in the second member for slidably receiving the elongated portion of the first member; and tapering the recess to have negative draft relative to the elongated portion of the first member.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jeremy Gin, Jerry Gin
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Publication number: 20040025922Abstract: Apparatuses and methods assist in mobility of a person. According to an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for assisting in mobility of a person comprises: a crutch having a crutch length along an axis; and at least two adjustment points on the crutch, wherein the length is adjustable at the adjustment points, whereby the crutch is customizable for accommodating body dimensions of an intended user; wherein the adjustment points include a first and a second adjustment point, and the first adjustment point is configured to, at least occasionally, contribute an adjustment to the crutch length that is not merely an adjustment that is being contributed by the second adjustment point.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jeremey Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jerry Gin
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Publication number: 20040025917Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an mobility-aid apparatus comprises: a first member that includes an exterior, a second member adjustably connected to the first member, and a lock. The first member is made using a mold that includes at least a first form unit that forms a first portion of the exterior and a second form unit that forms a second portion of the exterior. There is at least one boundary on the exterior between the first and second portions. The first and second members together span an adjustable axial length. The lock fixes the adjustable axial length against at least one of contraction or expansion, wherein the lock engages, or exists on, the first member not on the at least one boundary on the exterior of the first member. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing an apparatus for assisting in mobility.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner, Jerry Gin
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Publication number: 20040025925Abstract: An underarm crutch according to an embodiment comprises an underarm support that is placed underarm of a person during use; and at least one elongated member that bears weight and that includes a polymeric material as a structural basis, wherein the underarm support is coupled to the at least one member to help support weight of the person; wherein the underarm crutch has height during use, a substantial portion of which height is contributed by the at least one elongated member; and wherein the underarm crutch comprises substantially no metal, whereby the underarm crutch is capable of not triggering an alarm by an airport metal detector. An apparatus according to another embodiment comprises: a crutch that is substantially composed of injection molded plastic and that includes no metal; wherein the crutch, when viewed using x-ray, has appearance that differs from appearance of a metal crutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Jerry Gin
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Publication number: 20040025920Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, an ambulation-assistance device comprises: a lower body portion that includes an elongated, weight-bearing first member at top of the lower body portion, the lower body portion having no other elongated, weight-bearing member at top of the lower body portion parallel to the first member; and an upper body portion that includes an elongated second member at bottom of the upper body portion, the second member being adjustably connected to the first member, adjustment of the connection for adjustment of device height; wherein each of the first and the second members is integrally shaped to oppose relative rotation between the second member and the first member around a longitudinal axis. According to an embodiment of the invention, a method is for producing a mobility-enhancing apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
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Publication number: 20040025921Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a mold is for molding a first member of a device for assisting in ambulation, for example, a crutch. The device further is to include a second member. The first member is to include a cavity to accept an elongated portion of the second member in a direction of insertion of the second member, which is opposite a direction of withdrawal of the second member. The mold comprises: a form configured to shape the exterior of the first member; and a core configured to shape the cavity of the first member; the core being configured and disposed to separate from the first member in a direction other than the direction of withdrawal of the second member. According to an embodiment of the invention, there is a method is for molding a portion of a mobility-assistance device.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
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Publication number: 20040025918Abstract: According to an embodiment of the present invention, a mobility-assistance device comprises: a body having an upper end and a lower end, the body comprising an elongated member at the lower end that terminates in a lower tip, the lower tip being formed integrally with the elongated member and being without any substantial flange, the lower tip having at least one bottom surface; the elongated member being elongated along a longitudinal axis; and a resilient ground contact that attaches to the body at the lower tip. The body transfers weight to the ground contact axially via the bottom surface, and overall area of the at least one bottom surface is substantially greater than non-empty area of a cross section of the elongated member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method is for producing a crutch.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventors: Jeremy Gin, Jesus Garza, Richard W. Benner
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Publication number: 20040011393Abstract: A crutch provides ease of adjustment, transport and storage. In a described embodiment, the crutch includes two length adjustment mechanisms. Each of the mechanisms includes an inner tube slidingly received within an outer tube, and a spring-biased protrusion carried on the inner tube and inserted into one of a series of holes formed through the outer tube, thereby securing the inner tube relative to the outer tube. An armpit support is attached to one of the inner tubes, a foot is attached to the other inner tube, and a handle is attached to one of the outer tubes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2002Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventor: Ted Whitworth