Occupant-pushed Patents (Class 280/87.021)
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Patent number: 8002295Abstract: A safety improvement for the well established types of wheeled handicap walkers with safety levers attached to the walker; the safety levers begin at the handholds part of the walker and about over the rear wheel and are formed back and upward to conform to the back of the users lower arm; the user grips the handholds of the walker to walk forward; the walker, equipped with the safety levers, hits an obstacle with the front wheels, the safety levers contact the back of the users lower arms, user applies the back of their lower arm to urge downward on the safety levers causing the walker to rock backwards which in turn causes the downward energy to shift and the front wheel or wheels to lift and pass over the obstacle.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Inventor: Harry Clark
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Patent number: 7997597Abstract: An orthopedic mobility scooter for persons with a compromised leg or foot comprising a frame for supporting the weight of an occupant in a sitting position and a leg rest for supporting the compromised leg. The healthy leg is used to propel the scooter with an unobstructed stride. Wheels are located at the front and rear of the frame. Handles attached to a steering column and connected to a front wheel control the direction of travel. A padded seat is positioned near the center of the frame. A horizontal rod extending perpendicular to the frame is used to connect a leg rest and a stabilizing front wheel. The front horizontal rod and rear axle can both be positioned to either side of the frame to accommodate either a left or right compromised leg or foot. The scooter has enough clearance and stability to surmount obstacles such as street curbs.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2009Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Inventor: John Timothy Mehl
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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: 7980572Abstract: An amputee mobility device includes a wheeled frame, and seat with webbed pocket for receiving an amputated leg. The seat is adjustable height adjustable, as is the pocket for customizing to individuals. Adjustable handles allow amputees to move themselves, or allow a helper to push like a wheelchair. In one form, the frame includes front and rear articulated subframes. In another form, the wheeled frame forms an elongated rigid frame, with two fixed-axle wheels and two rear-located steerable wheels and one front-located steerable wheel. In another form, the frame includes two fixed-axle wheels and two steerable wheels arranged to function somewhat like a wheeled walking cane. Optional features include outriggers for leg protection, a foldable frame for compact storage and shipment, bicycle-like lockable hand brakes, a seat without aperture for supporting a lower leg extending horizontally, storage shelves, and cup holders.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Becky J. Bennett
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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: 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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Patent number: 7938413Abstract: A knee scooter includes a substantially V-shaped chassis formed by a pair of extensions joined together at a vertex. At the vertex, the extensions form an angle of about sixty degrees. Further, the extensions establish a foot-space in the interior of the angle and define a chassis centerline that bisects the angle. An adjustment tube is selectively engageable with the first extension of the chassis to orient the adjustment tube substantially perpendicular to the plane of the chassis. Further, engagement with the first extension off-sets the adjustment tube from the centerline of the chassis. In use, a user rests one knee on the seat while propelling the knee scooter with his/her other leg in the foot-space.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2007Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Inventor: Michael Dale Anderson
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Patent number: 7900940Abstract: A pedestrian cycle, to which the invention provides substantial improvements. An illustrative embodiment of the pedestrian cycle is comprised of: a generally U-shaped, partible overhead cycle frame that provides an intrinsic suspension and spring-cushioned ride; front wheel and rear wheel assemblies with customary steerage and brakes; and an exemplary saddle assembly that completely averts pressure on the perinea of the rider while allowing unobstructed leg movement. The saddle assembly is suspended from the cycle frame by a plurality of flexible and adjustable straps which not only isolate the rider from vibration, but allow the rider to hold his or her body vertical while leaning the cycle into a turn as he or she walks or runs. Finally, the invention provides fun outdoor exercise, therapy, or training, with substantively enhanced ambulatory capacity and substantively reduced internal and external impact to the body in all human gaits and to all users able and, importantly, disabled.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2008Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Inventor: David J. Vidmar
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Patent number: 7891680Abstract: A flexible riding board may include a front fork assembly for pivotal rotation about a front axis, the front fork assembly including a single front wheel mounted for rolling rotation about a front axle offset from the front axis; a rear fork assembly for pivotal rotation about a rear axis including a single rear wheel mounted for rolling rotation about a rear axle offset from the rear axis; and a flexible, one piece molded plastic platform having a neutral plane and supported by the front fork assembly with the front axis at a first acute angle to the neutral plane and supported by the rear fork assembly with the rear axis at a second acute angle to the neutral plane, the platform twistable by a rider to pivot the rear wheel about the rear axis so that the riding board is propelled in a forward direction, wherein the front fork assembly is pivotable about the front axis by the rider to steer the riding board.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2010Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Razor USA, Inc.Inventors: Robert Chen, Robert A. Hadley
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Patent number: 7837208Abstract: A mobility device includes stored orientation and an operative orientation. Further the mobility device includes a frame, the frame having a front leg assembly including a pair of front legs, and a rear leg assembly including a pair of rear legs. Each of the front and rear leg assemblies including at least one cross member spanning the legs thereof, the cross members structured to have a variable width so as to effectively vary an overall width of the mobility device and reduce the width when in the stored orientation. Further, at least one of the leg assemblies includes a lower portion wherein the wheels are included, the lower portion disposable into a non-operative storage position that at least partially defines a reduced longitudinal dimension of the mobility device when in the stored orientation.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Inventor: Phillip Minyard Willis
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Patent number: 7837209Abstract: A person rides the Tri-Axial Control Device standing on pedal assemblies. The pedal assemblies are attached to a control axial member thus forming the Tri-Axial Control Device. The control axial member on the vertical stick, can rotate fore and aft, and turns the front skis and/or wheels. Changing the angle of the vertical stick side-to-side changes the pedal angle. If the rider falls forward the front stick can rotate away. Various torsion controls rod assemblies and pedal assemblies can be utilized to create a unique tri axial device. The device can be folded, is lightweight and can be manufactured without welding. No special equipment or training is required to operate the device. In addition to its entertainment uses, the mounting device for portable electronics can also be used for added safety by adding a global positioning system or other electronic signal device, allowing safety personnel to locate the rider.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2007Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Inventors: Adam Micheal Spencer, Deserai Marie Spencer
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Patent number: 7828305Abstract: A handle grip for ambulatory aid appliances has a soft top portion and a rigid body portion. The handle grips may be attached to a wheeled ambulatory aid appliance such as a rolling walker, wheelchair, stroller and the like in a selected position to provide a comfortable and secure hand grip to a user of the ambulatory aid.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: AMG Medical Inc.Inventors: Daniel Seth Meyers, Cristian Boar
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Patent number: 7780180Abstract: A knee walker includes a frame; a cushion; a front crossmember; two rear wheels; two front spindles and two front wheels each pivotally connected to one of the two front spindles. Positive steering is provided by a handlebar rotatably connected to the front end of the frame; a steering gear responsively engaged with the rotatably connected handlebar shaft; a steering arm actuated by the steering gear responsive to the handlebar; a steering rod connecting the steering arm and one of the two front spindles, so as to pivot one associated front wheel responsive to the steering arm; and a tie rod linking the two front spindles responsively to the steering rod.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2007Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Inventors: John M. Hoepner, Ching-Hsu Lin
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Patent number: 7766351Abstract: A flexible skateboard may include a pair of direction casters mounted for steering rotation on a twistable one piece skateboard. A center section may be made sufficiently narrower than outboard foot support areas so that the board may be twisted by a rider to add energy for rolling motion to wheels in the casters. The center section may also be made sufficiently resistant to bowing and twist so that the skateboard may be ridden as a conventional, non-flexible skateboard. Wells may be provided to resist twisting and provide gripping surfaces on the board for the rider's feet.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2007Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Razor USA, LLCInventors: Robert Chen, Robert A. Hadley
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Patent number: 7743779Abstract: A mobility aid (FIG. 1) design for providing stabilized mobility support by the practical use of a two sided vertically supported rigid frame comprising front and rear bilaterally double support members (12), (12a), (13), (13a), (15), and (15a), and not limited to but preferably of aluminum construction to include a plurality of upper and lower substantially identical bilaterally horizontal and vertical tubular main frame members (17), (18), (19), (20), (22), (27), (28), and (29), supported on a plurality of sufficiently sized wheels (26), and (30), attached to the underside of the main frame (26), and (30), with predetermined spacing. Base members (22), (28), and (29), are sufficiently elevated-providing for unhindered foot movement during mobilization. A guide wheel assembly (23), (25), (25b), (26), and (26a), is vertically attached at a contiguously anterior junction surface of the two sided main frame assembly (20), and (23), thereby providing selective directional steering.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2008Date of Patent: June 29, 2010Inventor: Larry Ellis Gee, Sr.
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Patent number: 7740566Abstract: A wheeled walker for training an individual to walk by enabling hip flexion. The walker is equipped with a pulley located between two anchors points to which the ends of an elastic cord are attached a middle portion of the elastic cord runs over the pulley. A first harness for receiving a foot of the user is slidingly coupled to the segment of the elastic cord located between the first anchor point and the pulley. A similar harness for receiving the other foot of the user is slidingly coupled to the segment of the elastic cord located between the second anchor point and the pulley.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2008Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Neuromuscular Gain Inc.Inventor: Avinoam Nativ
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Publication number: 20100148460Abstract: A convertible multimodal vehicle (e.g., balance bike and kick scooter) particularly suited for small children.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2008Publication date: June 17, 2010Applicant: Diggin Active, Inc.Inventors: Royce Nelson, Phillip H. Neal
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Patent number: 7726327Abstract: A walker includes a universal mount adapted to interchangeably receive multiple different attachments useful for a patient using the walker. A single walker may have an array of attachments adapted to be interchangeably used by a particular user. Alternatively, a care provider may stock a single walker available for use by many different patients, because individual needs may be met by the different attachments that may be interchangeably used with the mount on the single walker.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Assignee: Tubular Fabricators Industry, Inc.Inventor: Joseph Battiston
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Publication number: 20100096823Abstract: Knee boards for riding in a kneeling position on a ground surface and methods of riding the same. Knee boards include a body with a knee support region, front and rear wheel assemblies, and a gripping member. The body defines an open kick region laterally adjacent to the knee support region. The open kick region permits a user to extend his/her foot to contact and kick the ground surface to propel the knee board and the user along the ground. Some knee boards include a left knee support region and a right knee support region laterally spaced from the left knee support region, and which collectively define the open kick region therebetween. Some knee boards include a central knee support region and a body that defines a left kick region and a right kick region to the left and right of the knee support region, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 19, 2009Publication date: April 22, 2010Applicant: Acorn Products, LLCInventors: Scott H. Stillinger, Kathryn Kelsey Anne Stillinger
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Patent number: 7681895Abstract: A scooter device propelled by side to side movement of a user that includes a frame structure through which at least a front wheel is coupled to two direction biased rear wheels. The frame structure may have a foot placement platform that extends laterally between the two rear wheels. The platform may extend over half of the distance between the rear wheels and/or be substantially continuous for that distance. Various platform embodiments and frame structures, including rigid and flexible, are disclosed, among other aspects.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventor: Shane Chen
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Patent number: 7677259Abstract: An apparatus that combines the functionality of a walker with that of a single crutch is herein disclosed. The apparatus provides for one crutch that comes up from the side support of the walker and thus the side of the user's body and is adjustable in height, as is the walker support handles, such that the invention can be customized for any sized user. The adjustment is facilitated by use of spring pin slip fittings, and thus can be adjusted in a matter of minutes without tools. The crutch support can be easily moved from the right to left hand side of the walker by use of a removable clamp system. It is also envisioned that certain models of the invention can provide crutches on both the right and left hand side of the walker simultaneously, based upon the needs of the patient. When not in use or not needed, the invention folds up in a manner similar to a conventional walker thus providing a low profile for ease of storage.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 16, 2010Inventors: Jetta E. Arbuckle, David M. Arbuckle
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Patent number: 7673888Abstract: A supportive device for use as a wheelchair and a walker. A pair of handgrips are pivotally attached to a frame so as to have a rearwardly-facing position and a forwardly-facing position. A seat is pivotally attached to the frame so as to have a horizontal position and a vertical position. When using the supportive device as the wheelchair, a pair of front legs of the frame terminate in wheels, the seat is in the horizontal position thereof, and the pair of handgrips are in the rearwardly-facing position thereof. When the supportive device is used as the walker, the pair of front legs terminate in either wheels or caps, the seat is in the vertical position thereof, and the pair of handgrips are in the forwardly-facing position thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2005Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Inventors: Givi Lauren, Irma Lauren
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Patent number: 7657968Abstract: An improved wheel interface for walkers that includes a spring interface connection between the frame of the walker and the wheel assembly. The walker is able to better absorb shocks that occur when encountering an obstacle such as a curb, allowing the user to avoid the necessity of allowing the walker to fall or to risk falling himself.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Inventor: Elaine Levin
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Patent number: 7635136Abstract: A method of propelling a wheeled platform, which includes creating a source of energy upon a first change in orientation of the platform around an axis approximately parallel to a longitudinal axis of the platform and wherein the platform rotates around the axis. The source of energy is stored and released to propel the wheeled platform upon a second change in orientation of the platform around the axis.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Inventor: Jeffrey E. Cole
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Patent number: 7628411Abstract: A walker device for assisting an individual with mobility which is temporarily convertible to a wheeled transportation chair, includes a frame structure having two front legs and two rear legs, each of the legs having a leg extension adjustably attached thereto and supported on a rotatable wheel. A seat is attached to the frame structure. A backrest is selectively disposed in a front position for a rearward seating condition or in a rear position for a forward seating condition. A footrest assembly is optionally attached to the frame structure and is adapted to pivot about first and second pivoting axes parallel to each other, between a folded position and an unfolded position optionally with different height levels.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: December 8, 2009Assignee: AMG Medical Inc.Inventors: Daniel Seth Meyers, Cristian Boar, Ming Xu
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Patent number: 7597334Abstract: A scooter device having a flexible, tiltable frame structure and biased direction rear wheels. The scooter may be of a type that achieves forward propelled by side-to-side movement of a user. The frame structure may include a flexible member or members and/or incorporate other flexible or moveable components to achieve desired performance. The frame structure and steering mechanism may be moveable into a more compact form for storage or transport. A brake arrangement and other features are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: Shane Chen
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Patent number: 7597333Abstract: Brake assemblies, and scooters and skateboards incorporating the same. The brake assemblies include an actuator that is positioned rearward of the body of the scooter or skateboard and includes a brake member that is selectively pivoted or otherwise moved into braking contact with a rear wheel assembly responsive to rider-applied braking inputs to the actuator. In some embodiments, the rear wheel assembly includes a truck with a chassis that is pivotally coupled to the body and to which the rear wheels are rotatably mounted. In some embodiments, the brake member is adapted to apply braking forces to a ground-contacting surface of at least one of the rear wheels responsive to braking inputs applied by a rider to the actuator. In some embodiments, the brake assembly is configured to maintain its orientation relative to the rear wheel regardless of the pivotal orientation of the body relative to the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2006Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Acorn Products, LLCInventor: Scott H. Stillinger
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Patent number: 7584974Abstract: A folding means for a foldable apparatus, the folding means comprising a first member (2) having a locking end (4) and a second member (5) having an opening (16) through which the locking end (4) of the first member (2) is located, the locking end (4) being pivotally attached to the second member (5) via a pivot means and the locking end (4) comprising at least one catch (26), and wherein a locking means that is adapted to engage with the catch (26) and the second member (5) to lock the apparatus in a particular position.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Flexibility Concepts LtdInventors: Thomas Richard Jackman, Jayson Leslie Puklowski
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Patent number: 7568712Abstract: The invention relates to a walker having a main supporting frame, a superstructure frame and a body support means. The superstructure frame is operatively arranged for vertical adjustment relative to the main supporting frame and includes an adjustable interior opening for accommodating a user and an entrance gate operatively arranged to provide access to the adjustable interior opening. The body support means is secured to the superstructure frame and operatively arranged to support the user. Furthermore, the walker may include four wheels, each of which may include a directional locking apparatus and/or braking system, and the walker may include at least one arm support operatively arranged for supporting the user. The walker may also include at least one handle operatively arranged for transmission of the walker.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2006Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: The Research Foundation of State University of NYInventors: Peter Kovachi, Joseph C. Mollendorf, Roger Teagarden, Chee Main Heam
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Patent number: 7559560Abstract: The present utility model disclosed a main support frame, which has two bushings each set on the right and left side of said main support frame respectively; two supporting pipes, each inserted in one of the bushings of the main support frame; two P-shaped armrests, each connects with one of the supporting pipes; two pairs of front-wheel assembly and rear wheel assembly, each pair of front-wheel assembly and rear wheel assembly is connected with the main support frame; and a seat component comprising a seat body and a folding mechanism, said seat component can be folded in the middle and is set between the left side and right side of main support frame. Said folding mechanism consists of a first branch pipe and a second branch pipe, which hinge joint with each other in the middle, one end of the first branch pipe and the second branch pipe hinge joint with the left side and right side of the main support frame respectively, the other end connect with the two ends of said seat body respectively.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Genteel Homecare Products Co., Ltd.Inventors: Qingfeng Li, Sam Liang
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Patent number: 7547027Abstract: The present invention provides a rolling walker with a pair of armrest platforms and vertical handles in combination with a removable utility tray. The armrest platforms provide added or alternate support for a patient not provided by a conventional four wheeled rolling walker. A utility tray assembly provides a tray top and a drawer for patient care services. The armrest platforms are supported at a vertical distance above the ground surface by a pair of armrest frames. The armrest frames are carried by the main frame of the conventional walker. The armrest frames each includes a main armrest frame member, a diagonal member and an armrest support member to carry the armrest platform and vertical handles with hand brakes. The armrest platforms can be adjusted in both horizontally and vertically with respect to the main frame of the conventional walker for better distribution of the user's weight. The utility tray assembly rests on the armrest platforms when needed.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Inventor: David Bohn
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Patent number: 7543829Abstract: The present invention discloses a coaster cycle having a front half which works similarly to a bicycle wherein it has handle bars that turn the front wheels. The front wheel turns left and right and also leans in both a left and right direction. The front wheel leans left to right and is connected to the rear wheels by a frame having multiple pivotal couplings so that the rear wheels lean left or right with exactly the same angle as the front wheels. The leaning of the front and rear wheels in concert gives the frame a unique design which allows it to make left and right high G-force turns in a very stable manner. Additional embodiments are disclosed which comprise twin, internal combustion engines being placed on the rear wheels of the vehicle in order to power the vehicle which also have independent thumb control throttles for controlling the rear wheels individually.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Inventor: Danny Barnes
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Patent number: 7530582Abstract: A vehicle including a frame; a rider support platform supported by the frame; a pair of first wheel units pivotably supported by the frame; a pair of second wheel units supported by the frame; first and second handlebars pivotably supported by the frame; a first linkage connecting the first handlebar to one of the first wheel units so that pivotable movement of the first handlebar causes wheel of the one of the first wheel units to turn relatively to the frame; a second linkage connecting the second handlebar to the other of the first wheel units so that pivotable movement of the second handlebar causes wheel of the other of the first wheel units to turn relatively to the frame; and a movement coordinator which connects the first and second linkages to each other so that pivotable movement of one or both of the first and second handlebars in one direction causes the wheels of both first wheel units to turn in the same direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: P{umlaut over (r)}agmatic Designs Inc.Inventors: Julia D Truchsess, James Flechner
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Patent number: 7523950Abstract: A walker device for assisting an individual with mobility which is temporarily convertible to a wheeled transportation chair, includes a frame structure having two front legs and two rear legs supported or rotatable wheels. A seat is attached to the frame structure. A backrest is selectively disposed in a front position for a rearward seating condition or in a rear position for a forward seating condition. A footrest assembly is optionally attached to the frame structure and is adapted to pivot about first and second pivoting axes parallel to each other, between a folded position and an unfolded position.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Assignee: AM G Medical Inc.Inventors: Daniel Seth Meyers, Cristian Boar
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Patent number: 7494138Abstract: A mobile support system having a central region that allows the legs to move in an unobstructed manner and providing an upper body support assembly where the weight is distributed between the elbow region and hand region of the individual for a desirable weight distribution for assisted bipedal motion such as walking or running.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2006Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Inventor: Gary Graham
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Patent number: 7494139Abstract: The invention is an Enhanced Patient Mobility System for use by ambulatory or recovering patients. The Enhanced Mobility System 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 identical side frame members lying in parallel planes and each attached at it's lower extremity to the lower U-shaped base frame member. The U-shaped base frame member, the mid frame member and the two identical side frame members 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: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Inventors: David B. Turner, Ralph Myers
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Publication number: 20090033052Abstract: An apparatus for assisting people with walking wherein those apparatus are reconfigurable to provide seating in either the forward-facing, or the rear-facing direction, includes a foldable, wheeled frame assembly, a seat mounted to the frame, and a reversible cross-arm, or backrest, for reconfiguring the apparatus from a rear-facing seating arrangement to a forward-facing seating arrangement. In a further aspect, hinged arms, one on each side of the frame assembly, are operable to at least partially rotate in a plane adjacent to the plane of the frame to which it is attached, thereby offering alternative positions of the arms that are convenient to the forward-facing seating position and the rear-facing seating position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2007Publication date: February 5, 2009Inventors: Scott N. Bradshaw, Bernarde Linde
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Patent number: 7484740Abstract: A walking stabilizer equipped to combat the effects of akinesia paradoxica by employing a novel method and device to regulate and actuate a projection instrument which generates a pattern perpendicular to the user's direction of travel. The regulating and actuating device comprises a two pole series switch circuit configuration in tandem with the walking stabilizer's novel dual action braking mechanism. The projection device is only operable when the user concurrently selects its use and when the walker stabilizer is free for movement or in contact with the patient.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Inventor: Jonathan Jay Miller
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Patent number: 7484742Abstract: Disclosed herein is a caster skate apparatus to be propelled in a direction changeable manner by use of rider's both feet. The apparatus comprises front and rear boards (20, 30) to support both feet thereon, first and second rollers (22, 23) mounted to the underside of the front board at front and rear locations by a predetermined distance, third and fourth rollers (32, 33) mounted to the underside of the rear board at front and rear locations by a predetermined distance, a flexible connector (52) having a predetermined length and connected at opposite ends thereof to the front and rear boards to allow the front and rear boards to independently move within a predetermined range. A rotating center of each of the first and third rollers is spaced apart from an axis, having a predetermined inclination angle with respect to undersides of the respective boards, by a predetermined distance.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: Tasem Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ynok Choi
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Publication number: 20080302402Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2008Publication date: December 11, 2008Inventors: Stephen Ryan, Susan Hardy, William Johnson, Michael Doell
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Patent number: 7445217Abstract: A walk aiding apparatus. An electric gear motor is attachable to a frame of a wheeled walker device and includes a first sprocket rotatably coupled to the gear motor. A rotatable cam shaft is stabilized by a pair of bearings, the cam shaft having a second sprocket coupled thereto. A set of cams are adjustably mounted to the cam shaft. A belt extends between the first and second sprockets. A battery is selectably coupled to the electric gear motor through an electrical switch, the electric gear motor being energized when the electrical switch is actuated. The electric gear motor, when energized, rotates the cam shaft and, in turn, the cams, such that the cams periodically contact a surface to effect movement of the wheels of the walker device with respect to the surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Inventor: Donald J Price
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Patent number: 7438297Abstract: A cambering vehicle for human propelled transport comprises an elongate front column, first and second pivot axles at the front column, a first trailing arm pivotally attached to the first pivot axle, a second trailing arm pivotally attached to the second pivot axle, a front ski associated with the elongate front column, and, first and second rear skis associated with said first and second trailing arms. The first and second pivot axles may be inclined downward. Separately, a ski may be adapted for attachment to a conventional cambering vehicle having a front tube with a fork, where the ski comprises a surface having a rear section, mid-section, and front section, the surface being relatively flat at its rear section and mid-section, but curving upward at its front section, and an attachment mechanism for attachment to the fork.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: October 21, 2008Assignee: Products of Tomorrow, Inc.Inventors: Juan Fernandez, Jin Chen Chuang
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Patent number: 7422550Abstract: The present invention is a gait therapy device which facilitates the lower extremities particularly the action of flexion at the hip and knee to aid a patient in assisted ambulation, as well as knee, foot and ankle action. The gait trainer apparatus comprises: (a) a moveable frame adapted to move along the ground; (b) at least one motion responsive wheel attached to the frame and adapted to contact the ground and to turn as the frame moves along the ground, and at least one wheel having an offset motion portion having a right side and left side; (c) a left foot attachment, the left foot attachment connected to the left side of the offset motion portion by a flexible or elastic member; and (d) a right foot attachment, the right foot attachment connected to the right side of the offset motion portion by a flexible or elastic member.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Inventors: Michelle Pinero, Andrea Roth
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Patent number: 7416197Abstract: A frame has a foot support and rear wheel support for two rear wheels spaced apart for stability. A front steering column, pivotally attached to the frame, may have a single wheel or spaced apart double wheels for greater stability for a four wheel vehicle. A seat support pedestal extends upwardly from the frame near the back to support a rotatable seat.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2005Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Inventors: Stephen Mackin, Ernest Newton
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Patent number: 7413531Abstract: An exercise apparatus that can be attached to any wheeled device that is pushed in which the wheel of the wheeled device is subjected to rolling resistance so that the person pushing it had to push harder thereby experiencing exercise.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2004Date of Patent: August 19, 2008Inventor: Gary McLaughlin
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Patent number: 7377285Abstract: A walker is disclosed having two sets of handles positioned for rising from and lowering to a seated position in addition to serving as a walking aid. The walker comprises a frame having a front section comprising a pair of front vertical supports and a rigid cross-piece, and two side sections each comprising a rear vertical support having a load-bearing axis formed through a ground-engaging point, rigid connectors connecting the side sections to the front section, a first pair of handles positioned to support a user in a standing or walking position, and a second pair of handles positioned below and to the rear of the first set of handles to support a user in rising from or lowering to a seated position, in which the geometric centers of each of the second pair of handles is positioned to the rear of the load-bearing axis of each of the rear vertical supports.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventors: Craig E. Karasin, Thomas J. Powers, David G. Reed
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Publication number: 20080111333Abstract: Low profile motorless vehicles and related methods are disclosed, the vehicles being without a propulsion mechanism, without a steering mechanism other than by shifting body weight and without a braking mechanism and are easy to learn to use and to use, safer to operate and appealing to the full range of humanity including very young children, youth, teenagers, young adults and older adults.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 5, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventors: Merrill Oveson, Richard Oveson
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Patent number: 7367572Abstract: A skateboard in accordance includes a footplate (1) having a lower surface, a front wheel and a rear wheel (3) arranged in a front end and a rear end of the lower surface respectively, wherein the wheels are universal, and the footplate includes a front plate (17) and a rear plate (18). The front plate and the rear plate are connected via a rotatable torsional mechanism, and a restriction element (4) is defined between each plate and the torsional mechanism for restricting the rotation range of the torsional mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2005Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Inventor: Xiancan Jiang
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Patent number: 7364174Abstract: A magnetic motor axle for magnetically augmenting the propulsion efficiency and duration of a skateboard is disclosed. The magnetic motor axle includes a truck for mounting on a step board of a skateboard. Multiple truck magnets are provided in the truck. An elongated rotor assembly is rotatably mounted in the truck, and multiple rotor magnets are provided on the rotor assembly. As the rotor assembly rotates in the truck, the truck magnets magnetically repel the respective rotor magnets to augment the torque of the rotor assembly. As least one drive wheel is drivingly engaged by the rotor assembly to drive the skateboard on a surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: James Morris
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Patent number: 7363931Abstract: A system for assisting a seated person to stand that may include a walker and a lifting arm attached to the walker that extends in an approximate vertical direction from the walker. The walker may include two front legs and two rear legs, and the lifting arm may extend telescopically from one of the front legs.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2005Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Inventor: Craig Weaver