Pivoting, Rocking, Or Swivelling Patents (Class 135/84)
  • Patent number: 10265230
    Abstract: Disclosed are handicap apparatus using (a) one or more resilient, snap-on bumper structures, (b) unique tips covers, (c) leg elevating units, (d) resilient structures having a density that provides a softer exterior and a harder interior. The handicap apparatus includes crutches, canes, wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Inventor: Lorelei Trask
  • Patent number: 9974367
    Abstract: A base for a walking stick, which is configured to dispose in a bottom end of a stick body of the walking stick to provide a buffering and shock-absorbing effect, may include a main body, a shaft, a first sleeve, and a second sleeve. An upper portion and a lower portion of the shaft respectively have a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. Also, a buffering unit disposed on the first connecting portion can allow the second sleeve to be compressed and stretched. Thus, the walking stick can achieve the stretch motion stably, and buffer the reactive force from the floor. Thus, the base structure for a walking stick can allow the stick body to swing in all direction. Also, it can be used to stand on different tilted grounds, and improve the reliability and safety of the walking stick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Homecare Enterprise Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Shih-Chieh Liu
  • Patent number: 9765919
    Abstract: The resilient foot has a rubber tubular member to provide a resilient support and an insert of solid material within the tubular member to limit the travel of the resilient foot under load. The insert is disposed in a bore of the tubular member and is inwardly spaced a small distance from the support surface of the tubular member to limit the vertical motion. The resilient foot has an enlarged elastomeric flange to provide non-slip characteristics and radial grooves are provided in the flange for the squeezing out of fluid between the foot and a mounting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Component Hardware Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin P. Burns, Stanley Szprengiel
  • Patent number: 9226556
    Abstract: A foot base for assistive device includes a base body having a receiving space, a top opening and multiple foot pads; a flexible sleeve disposed in the receiving space to protrude from the base body; a support rod having a lower end received in the receiving space and provided with a stop plate, and an upper end extended through the flexible sleeve for joining with an assistive device; and a spring received in the receiving space and fitted around the flexible sleeve with two ends pressed against the stop plate and an edge of the opening. With the flexible sleeve and the spring, the support rod can conically swing relative to a centerline of the foot base, allowing the assistive device to swing forward and backward when a user shifts body gravity center during walking. The foot pads enable the foot base to provide anti-skidding, buffering and shock-absorbing effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventors: Li-Sheng Chien, Chien-Chang Ho
  • Patent number: 9084458
    Abstract: An example can include an apparatus for aiding walking along a surface. The example can include a foot to interface with the surface, the foot being rigid to resist bending during walking. The example can include a bendable puck fixed to the foot at an edge of the bendable puck. The example can include a handle coupled to a center portion of the bendable puck. In the example, the foot can be spaced apart from the handle, with the puck being elastically bendable to permit movement of the handle with respect to the foot during walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: HurryCane LLC
    Inventor: Christopher Crowhurst
  • Patent number: 8936033
    Abstract: A walker for aiding locomotion comprises a frame structure including: a first and second side frame comprising (i) a first and second anterior frame portion, (ii) a first and second posterior frame portion, and (iii) a first superior frame portion connecting an upper end of the first anterior frame portion with an upper end of the first posterior frame portion, and (iv) a second superior frame portion connecting an upper end of the second anterior frame portion with an upper end of the second posterior frame portion. The first posterior frame portion of the first side frame comprises a first upper posterior collar and the second posterior frame portion of the second side frame comprises a second upper posterior collar. A first and second rotatable hand-rail are connected pivotally to the first and second upper posterior collar of the first and second posterior frame portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Arvin Jay D. Velarde
  • Patent number: 8919362
    Abstract: A telescoping cane with folding platform has a telescoping mechanism to adjust the height. A bottom portion of the cane is pivotally attached to a platform. The platform pivots upward into a parallel position with a shaft of the cane for a stowed position. In a deployed position, the platform is pivoted to a perpendicular position. The wider base of the platform assists a user in balancing his stance when using the cane. The pivoting assembly is further provided with a locking mechanism to maintain the platform in a deployed or stowed position. The cane is also equipped with a platen to assist with placement of user's foot upon the platform, which aids in stabilizing the cane when attempting to rise from a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Inventor: Billy Mortenson
  • Patent number: 8844548
    Abstract: A support for a walking aid such as a crutch, a walker or a cane is disclosed. The support is configured for providing enhanced balance on adverse terrain that may contain obstacles and/or have slippery spots. In an embodiment of the present invention, the support comprises a flat bottom and an upwardly angled slit that provides an upper and a lower section configured for contorting in a manner as to enhance friction with the walking terrain thus reducing the probability of slippage. In an alternate embodiment, the support comprises an oval shaped bottom and a downwardly angled slit. This support is configured facilitating walking and providing support in rough terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventors: Michael M Soletski, Robert Patrick Limoni
  • Patent number: 8820339
    Abstract: Walking aids are described which are of simple construction but which allow for both resilience, i.e. the part of the walking aid which is gripped by the user and the ground-engaging end (3) can be resiliency pressed together, as well as a degree of angular flexibility so that the end (3) stays aligned with the ground even if the stick, crutch or the like (1) is angled relative thereto. This is achieved in particular by the use of a bellows structure (2) between the shaft (1) of a walking aid and a ground-engaging foot (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Flexyfoot Limited
    Inventor: David Malcolm Goodwin
  • Patent number: 8746266
    Abstract: An apparatus for establishing dynamic ground contact is disclosed. A ground contact tip is attached to one end of an elongate member. The ground contact tip contains a connecting portion and a base portion that is opposite the connecting portion. A flexible core connects between the base portion and the connecting portion. At least one limiting ring is positioned on the flexible core. The elongate member is permitted to rotate through a range of angles while the flexible core allows the base portion to remain flat against the ground. At the maximum allowable angle, the limiting rings allow the ground contact tip to cease flexing and become rigid, so that the user can push against the ground at an angle, while the base portion remains flat against the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Towzer Sports, LLC
    Inventors: William Palmer, Paul Reeder
  • Patent number: 8739807
    Abstract: A protective glide for medical walker legs is disclosed in the present invention. Said protective glide comprises a wear disk for smooth walker moment on surfaces and a shield to cover said wear disk to prevent users from stepping on said wear disk and to prevent dirt and debris from collecting on the unit. The wear disk comprises an attached core containing gripping flanges and o-ring to snugly fit into the medical walker tubing. The present invention attaches easily to standard-size tubing of medical walker legs, without the use of tools. The rounded shape of the wear disk allows it to easily maneuver over rough and uneven surface and in any direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventors: Kevin Darrell Taylor, Michael Phillip Taylor
  • Patent number: 8733379
    Abstract: A walking supporter having a plurality of bottom frames with at least one curved element; a plurality of support frames connected to the curved element of the bottom frames; and at least one connecting element interconnecting the support frames. A user can stand up easily from a sitting position without exerting a force vertical to the ground because the walking supporter can be swung utilizing the bottom frame with a curved element. Furthermore, it is less likely that the walking supporter will get stuck even if there is a protrusion or a crevice on the ground because the bottom frame is formed of curved elements. The walking supporter is also appropriate for patients or the elderly who may not have enough arm-strength because it is possible to walk by pushing the walking supporter on the ground with a part of the bottom frame being in contact with the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Yongbeom Kwon
  • Patent number: 8714170
    Abstract: A mobility assistance retrieval system to help users grab objects out of reach featuring a cane, walker, or scooter, a grabber, and one or more clips for attaching the grabber to a leg shaft of the cane, walker, or scooter. The user can unclip the grabber from the cane, walker, or scooter and obtain an object without having to reach or bend for the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventors: William K. Bonne, Erin M. Bonne
  • Patent number: 8707975
    Abstract: An articulated grip pad is disclosed which includes a vertical supporting member that has a generally spherical bottom end. The crutch also includes a gripping pad having a bore. The generally spherical end of the vertical support is securely received into the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Millennial Medical Equipment, LLC
    Inventors: Brad J. Larson, Ken Lester
  • Patent number: 8678021
    Abstract: There is provided a tip configured for removable attachment to a walking aid device. The tip includes a base member, a shaft, and a plurality of spaced apart ribs. The shaft includes a bore therein extends upward from a central portion of an inner surface of the base member to accept a distal end of a walking aid device. The plurality of spaced apart ribs extend from an outer rim of the base member to the shaft and are configured to flex in response to a downward compressive force on the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Jerry A. Vasilatos, Anastasios J. Vasilatos
  • Patent number: 8671962
    Abstract: An articulating glide assembly for use on the leg of a walker includes an adapter with a sleeve having an open end to receive the free end of the walker leg. A base at the bottom end of the sleeve supports the downward force exerted by the walker. A hole in the base receives an upwardly directed pin extending from an articulating foot that is movably engaged with the base. The worn foot may be easily pulled from the base and replaced with a new foot as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Rodney Dodson
  • Patent number: 8662094
    Abstract: Embodiments of walking aids, which may comprise a handle, a shaft, and a base, are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Leela J Amladi
  • Patent number: 8607809
    Abstract: The invention is a multi-legged walking cane where each leg operates independently of each other by employing compressible legs, enhancing stability thru the complete gait cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ranjam, LLC
    Inventors: James D. Jordan, Randy G. Misenheimer, Shyh Min Chen
  • Patent number: 8596288
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Core Consulting, LLC
    Inventor: Jesse Daily
  • Patent number: 8464737
    Abstract: Stabilizer support for crutches and/or walking sticks, comprising a cylindrical body (1) with vertical axis within which there is a seat destined to receive a portion of a crutch or walking stick (S). The stabilizer support comprises more extractable feet (5) which, in a retracted position, are vertical and are inside the said body (1) while, in the extracted position, are spread apart and are external to the said body (1) thus forming a stable base of the stabilizer support. Furthermore, the stabilizer support comprises a knob (6) through which a slide (4) is made to vertically move inside the said body (1), the said feet (5) being connected with the said slide (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Renato La Chimia
  • Patent number: 8408224
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventors: Mario Ozuna, Adam Ozuna
  • Patent number: 8381748
    Abstract: A combined walking and pickup stick includes a shaft, pickup mechanism and actuator assembly. The actuator assembly controls configuration of the stick as either a walking stick or a pickup stick and also controls operation of the pickup stick. The stick has an adjustable length, but adjustment of the length does not affect operation of the pickup mechanism. The stick also folds for easy storage or transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Richard Selwyn Jebson
    Inventor: Shanon Matthew Martin
  • Patent number: 8371320
    Abstract: An improved forearm crutch includes an adjustable shaft, a forearm cuff affixed to an upper end of the shaft, a manifold affixed in proximity to the lower end of the shaft, and three legs affixed to said manifold, the legs including an anterior leg, a posterior leg, and a lateral leg, wherein each leg is disposed at an acute angle to the shaft, wherein the anterior and posterior legs are over six inches in length, wherein the lateral leg is at least two inches longer than the anterior and posterior leg, and wherein the lateral leg is flexibly engageable to the ground by means of either flexible legs or gel-type crutch tips engageable to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: Mary Ellen C. McKenna
  • Patent number: 8176927
    Abstract: This invention discloses a walking stick including a main body, a pivot connector and a socket. The main body is of the shape of stick and connects to the socket through the pivot connector. A sphere is inside the pivot connector. A sliding-proof elastic element locates between the bottom of the main body and the sphere. The sliding-proof elastic element and the sphere are mounted inside the pivot connector. A bottom of the sphere reaches the socket through the pivot connector. The sphere rotates inside the pivot connector as the socket moves, while being urged against the sliding-proof elastic element. The sliding-proof elastic element has characteristics of sliding proof, elasticity and wear resistance. Thereby the walking stick of the invention offers all-round support for the user in use. Especially the sliding proof effect of the sliding-proof elastic element restrains the instant movement of the sphere, and its elasticity offers an effect of shock resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: King-Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 8166990
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Core Consulting, LLC
    Inventor: Jesse Daily
  • Publication number: 20120067386
    Abstract: Flexible foot apparatuses and methods of using the same are disclosed. In one aspect a flexible foot apparatus is disclosed which can attach to and/or frictionally engage a standard crutch tip. The apparatus can include upper, lower, and intermediate body portions. The intermediate body portion can pivot during crutch assisted walking and can have a diameter smaller than diameters of the upper and lower body portions. The pivoting motion of crutch assisted walking can increase the amount of surface area available to engage a floor by pressing a bottom surface of the apparatus against the floor. Thus, stability at the crutch to floor interface can be improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventors: Kyle Joseph Giannatasio, Jeremy Dale Taylor, Lucas Adrian Parker, Joseph Allan Henderson, David G. Hudson
  • Publication number: 20120067384
    Abstract: A walking assistance apparatus and a walking assistance kit comprising a first walking assistance apparatus and a second walking assistance apparatus are disclosed. Each walking assistance apparatus comprises a shaft comprising a first end and a second end, a reversible handle portion extending from the first end, and a base extending from the second end. The shaft comprises a sidewall. The base comprises a first portion positioned proximal to the second end of the shaft, a second portion positioned distal from the second end of the shaft, and a third portion positioned intermediate the first portion and the second portion. The base comprises an arc-shaped contacting surface extending at least along the third portion. The first portion of the base comprises an end portion that is substantially aligned with the sidewall of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: March 22, 2012
    Inventor: Richard E. Whittaker
  • Publication number: 20110240077
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an assistive mobility device, for example a walking stick or a crutch, for ergonomically assisting its user to traverse both urban and more challenging terrain. The device includes an elongated pole to support the user and a hand grip by which the user grips the proximate end of the pole. The hand grip is connected to the pole through a user-adjustable damper for absorbing shock. A variety of interchangeable tips are available for the distal end of the pole to adapt the device for a variety of terrains and uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventors: Sarah Doherty, Kerith Perreurlloyd, William Johnson, Gary Moonie, Christopher John Foreman
  • Patent number: 7958902
    Abstract: A mobility assistance device is disclosed including a main shaft having a handle attached to one end thereof and a ground engaging member attached to an opposite end. The ground engaging member includes a support member and at least one generally arcuate-shaped foot depending therefrom adapted to contact a supporting surface that facilitates a maximization of a traction and a surface to surface contact between the arcuate-shaped foot and the supporting surface. The shaft and the handle are oriented in respect of the ground engaging member to facilitate a proper posture and a gait of a user, thereby maximizing a stability of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: No Boundaries Rehab, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin C. Ruddy
  • Patent number: 7954502
    Abstract: An improved mobility assistance apparatus for use by a person as a walking aid, e.g. a cane, crutch, or walker, has a support capable of bearing vertical forces during use of the apparatus as a walking aid and a resilient device connected to a lower portion of the support for ground engagement. The device has a dynamic response characteristic to forces associated with ambulating using the apparatus as a walking aid which generates propulsive force to aid mobility. Two coiled springs are monolithically formed with the device at an upper end thereof. A flexible elongated member is connected to a radially inner, free end of each of the coiled springs and extends about a return at a lower portion of the device for resiliently expanding the coiled springs to store energy with force loading of the apparatus during use and to release stored energy during force unloading to generate propulsive force to aid mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Bioquest Prosthetics, LLC
    Inventors: Barry W. Townsend, Byron K. Claudino
  • Publication number: 20110094552
    Abstract: This invention discloses a walking stick including a main body, a pivot connector and a socket. The main body is of the shape of stick and connects to the socket through the pivot connector. A sphere is inside the pivot connector. A sliding-proof elastic element locates between the bottom of the main body and the sphere. The sliding-proof elastic element and the sphere are mounted inside the pivot connector. A bottom of the sphere reaches the socket through the pivot connector. The sphere rotates inside the pivot connector as the socket moves, while being urged against the sliding-proof elastic element. The sliding-proof elastic element has characteristics of sliding proof, elasticity and wear resistance. Thereby the walking stick of the invention offers all-round support for the user in use. Especially the sliding proof effect of the sliding-proof elastic element restrains the instant movement of the sphere, and its elasticity offers an effect of shock resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventor: King-Chang WU
  • Patent number: 7926499
    Abstract: 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 a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Mobi, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Weber, Shawn Monitor, Michael Crider
  • Publication number: 20110073144
    Abstract: The present invention includes a walking cane having a handle assembly, a support assembly and foot member. The handle assembly includes first and second generally upright rigid posts. A shaft adaptable for grasping by a user's hand connects to each end of the posts. Pliable mounts dispose between the terminal ends of the shaft and each post. The mounts, biased against the shaft, permit omni-directional movement of the shaft relative to each post. The support assembly connects to the handle assembly and includes three parallel elongated rods spaced apart from one another in a triangular formation. The handle assembly can be adjusted relative to the support assembly by means of two cooperating shims. The foot member connects to the support assembly and contacts the ground. The cane provides a light-weight shaft and a shock absorbing handle assembly to assist in relieving hand, wrist and arm strains.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: KINETICANE, LLC
    Inventors: RONALD M. GOLDBERG, JOSEPH GOLDBERG
  • Patent number: 7905667
    Abstract: A walking staff apparatus having a tripod assembly that is releasably fastened to a main shaft. The tripod assembly may be released from the shaft to achieve a compact arrangement for transport or storage. The shaft may also be telescoping to achieve a compact size. The release joint may include a mechanism for centering the shaft and tripod assembly. A magnetic-based mechanism for releasable attachment of an article may be coupled to the shaft. The magnetic-based attachment mechanism may include an anti-rotation device to achieve secure positioning of an article releasable attached to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Trek Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: John Christopher Barker
  • Publication number: 20110005559
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventor: Jesse Daily
  • Patent number: 7823599
    Abstract: An ambulatory support and traction device used as a flexible foot (1) added to a walking aid, such as a cane or crutch (6), is provided. The flexible foot (1) includes a bendable coil or spring (3) that allows angulation of a walking aid shaft (4) relative to the foot (1) without the loss of adherence of the foot to a ground surface (19). The allowance of angulation of the walking aid shaft (4) improves ambulatory support and balance when leaning on the walking aid or when traversing an inclined surface and can assist the user in rising from a sitting position to a standing position without repositioning of the foot. The flexible foot (1) has a rigid base (2) for structural support and a traction sole (17) to adhere to surfaces both indoors and outdoors and on different surfaces and environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventors: Michael R. Thibodeau, Phyllis Fowhand
  • Publication number: 20100229903
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Inventors: Mario Ozuna, Adam Ozuna
  • Patent number: 7757537
    Abstract: An accessory for a conduit bender has a support member which attaches to the handle of the conduit bender. The support member includes a hand hold for grasping during conventional bending. The support member defines an anti-skid surface. The anti-skid surface has an area greater than the cross-sectional area of the conduit bender handle. When the handle is placed on a horizontal surface for a shoulder bend the anti-skid surface engages the horizontal surface and prevents the handle from skidding or slipping on the horizontal surface. An aperture in the anti-skid surface receives the end of a conduit for bend backs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: IDEAL Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce W. Hartranft
  • Patent number: 7735501
    Abstract: A mobility assistance apparatus and a method for improving the mobility of a person using a walking aid, such as a cane, crutch, or walker, involve use of a device for ground engagement with ambulating using the walking aid. In a preferred example the device is a resilient lower extremity prosthesis that is capable of storing and releasing energy to generate propulsive force to aid mobility. The prosthesis has a foot, ankle and shank. The shank has a lower portion that is anterior facing convexly curved for generating forward propulsion with ambulating to aid mobility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Bioquest Prosthetics LLC
    Inventors: Barry W. Townsend, Byron K. Claudino
  • Patent number: 7717123
    Abstract: 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 a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Egro-Crutch, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Weber, Shawn Monitor, Michael Grider
  • Patent number: 7686025
    Abstract: A sole has forward and rearward ends and lateral side edges. The sole has an upper and a lower surface with a periphery. A forward extent and a rearward extent each constitute a minority of the length of the sole. A central extent is provided between the forward and rearward extents. An upwardly extending tube has a free upper end and a lower end coupled to upper surface of the sole. The tube has a threaded aperture. A bolt is threadedly received within the threaded aperture. Strengthening ribs couple to the upper surface of the sole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony R. Dowling
  • Patent number: 7637274
    Abstract: An articulating glide assembly for use on a walker that assists disabled individuals to walk comprises an adapter having a sleeve for engaging a leg of the walker and a base for supporting the downward force exerted by the walker. The base defines a hole for receiving a portion of an articulating foot that is movably engaged with the base. A replaceable glide is affixed to a lower portion of the foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Rodney Dodson
  • Patent number: 7624746
    Abstract: An adjustable cane includes a grasping mechanism, an actuator, an adjustable length inelastic linkage, a magnetic pickup, hanging tip and self-standing base. Pivotally mounted to the distal end of the cane, the grasping mechanism includes a pair of fingers defining a narrow valley for grasping small objects and a wide valley for grasping large objects. The adjustable length inelastic linkage transmits force from the actuator to the grasping mechanism. The magnetic pickup is mounted to the grasping mechanism to facilitate retrieval of ferrous objects. The hanging tip supports the cane from horizontal surfaces. The self-standing base allows the cane to stand upright on any flat surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Canes & Distinctive Inventions, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles Blake
  • Patent number: 7610926
    Abstract: A mobility device to provide ambulatory support includes a tubular body having upper and lower parts. The upper part has at least four, and preferably five, bends and includes a manually graspable handle portion between two of the bends, and a hook-shaped bend for engaging the user's forearm on three sides adjacent the elbow. An intermediate portion including another bend is positioned between two other bends, and is positioned between the handle portion and the bend located adjacent the user's elbow. The lower part includes a floor-engaging free end and defines an axis, preferably a generally vertical axis. The bends and other features of the upper part cooperate to provide improved support for a user's forearm. Also disclosed is a rocker-type end member either fixedly or slidably fitted to the lower part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: StrongArm Inc.
    Inventor: Michael E. Adams
  • Publication number: 20090250088
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Clay Gibbons, Stephen Sanford, David Yakos
  • Publication number: 20090242008
    Abstract: An ambulatory support and traction device used as a flexible foot (1) added to a walking aid, such as a cane or crutch (6), is provided. The flexible foot (1) includes a bendable coil or spring (3) that allows angulation of a walking aid shaft (4) relative to the foot (1) without the loss of adherence of the foot to a ground surface (19). The allowance of angulation of the walking aid shaft (4) improves ambulatory support and balance when leaning on the walking aid or when traversing an inclined surface and can assist the user in rising from a sitting position to a standing position without repositioning of the foot. The flexible foot (1) has a rigid base (2) for structural support and a traction sole (17) to adhere to surfaces both indoors and outdoors and on different surfaces and environments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Michael R. Thibodeau, Phyllis Fowhand
  • Patent number: 7588044
    Abstract: The invention is for a foot assembly for a walking aid. The foot assembly is attached to a strut at a lower end of the walking aid. The foot assembly has a cylinder attached to a bottom of the strut and a foot pivotally attached to the cylinder by a foot bolt. The foot has a hemispherical portion and a flat ring portion. The foot bolt is positioned through a dome hole and a cylinder bottom opening, and the foot bolt is secured by a foot bolt nut that tightens on the foot bolt threads to attach the foot dome hemispherical portion to a concave cylinder bottom wall. A resilient foot pad is attached to a bottom of the foot. A spacer fits on the foot bolt and retains the foot bolt head inside the hemispherical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventor: William H. Baker
  • Patent number: 7581556
    Abstract: A crutch-like mobility assist device includes a vertical support assembly, an underarm support mechanism, and a rotatable footer assembly, the rotatable footer assembly including an elongated ground-engaging foot pad, attachment members connected to the foot pad and having vertical posts, and an elongated connection member with openings through which the vertical posts extend. The connection member includes respective pairs of support blocks on opposite sides of the vertical posts with bores therethrough for shafts that also extend through the posts to enable the posts (and thus the foot pad) to laterally rotate around the shafts. The foot pads can come into parallel contact with the ground even when the vertical support to which it is connected is laterally oriented by the user. Torsion springs connected to the posts will return the posts to a central orientation relative to the connection member when the foot pad is lifted off the ground by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: University of Maryland
    Inventors: Henry W. Haslach, Jr., James R. Borrelli
  • Patent number: 7490617
    Abstract: A step-extending device is adapted for use in association with a walker to ascend or descend a stairway. The step-extending device may employ a first base and a second base, each of which is adapted to receive legs of a walker upon respective upper surfaces. The device may be used in connection with a frame that connects the first and second bases to each other. A cross member connects first and second bases. A frame includes one or more upright members with handles adapted for grasping and moving the step-extending device from one stair to another stair during use. The height of each of the first and second support bases is adjusted to approximate the height of stairs upon a stairway, so that stairs of essentially any height may be accommodated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Step Extender, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Brabson Bell, Richard Martin Jones
  • Publication number: 20080169012
    Abstract: An improved Terrain Engaging Appliance for a trekking pole which will supplement a standard pole tip and provide additional terrain engagement and traction. A freely function will reduce inadvertent telescoping trekking pole collapse, and shed mud and shed mud and snow readily.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: David D. Gillanders