SUPPORT RAIL SYSTEM

Abstract

Support rails, support rail systems, and related methods. In one example, a support rail system includes a support rail and a coupling device. The coupling device can releasably secure the support rail to a fixed structure and can include a first portion secured relative to the support rail, a second portion secured relative to the fixed structure, and engaging structure configured to secure the first portion to the second portion. In another example, a method of installing a support rail includes providing a support rail system including a support rail and a coupling device. The coupling device includes a first portion fixed relative to the support rail and a second portion. The method can also include securing the second portion relative to a fixed structure and securing the first portion relative to the second portion via engaging structure.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/643,038, filed on May 4, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to support rails, support rail systems, and related methods. More specifically, certain embodiments concern support rail systems that include one or more support rails, for example, one or more hand rails, grab rails, grab bars, and/or grasp rails, that can be releasably coupled to a fixed structure, for example, a surface of a building, by one or more coupling devices.

2. Description of the Related Art

Support rails, for example, hand rails, grab rails, grab bars, and/or grasp rails, can be used by a person to provide stability and/or support. Support rails are commonly used by a person to help prevent falls while ascending or descending stairways or inclines, standing, rising, lowering, and/or walking. Other applications include barres, which can serve as training aids for dancers, e.g., ballet dancers. Support rails are typically supported from a ground or floor surface by posts or they may be mounted directly on walls above a ground or floor surface. Embodiments disclosed herein relate to support rails, support rail systems, and related methods.

SUMMARY

The devices and methods disclosed herein each have several aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some prominent features will now be discussed briefly. Numerous other embodiments are also contemplated, including embodiments that have fewer, additional, and/or different components, steps, features, objects, benefits, and advantages. The components, aspects, and steps may also be arranged and ordered differently. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description of Certain Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of the devices and methods disclosed herein provide advantages over other known devices and methods.

In one embodiment, a support rail system includes a support rail and a coupling device for securing the support rail to a fixed structure. The coupling device includes a first portion secured relative to the support rail, a second portion configured to be secured relative to the fixed structure, and engaging structure configured to secure the first portion to the second portion at least when the second portion is secured to the fixed structure. The coupling device is configured to quickly release the first portion from the second portion when the first portion is secured to the second portion.

In some aspects, the first portion can include a stem and a collar extending outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the first portion. The second portion can include a channel configured to receive at least a portion of the stem. The first portion can optionally include at least one o-ring disposed about the stem and the at least one o-ring can be configured to offset the stem from the second portion in the radial direction when the stem is at least partially received within the channel. In some aspects, the first portion can be cantilevered relative to the second portion via the at least one o-ring. For example, the first portion can be configured to deflect in a radial direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the second portion. In some aspects, the system can include one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, motion detection devices, and/or motion sensing devices.

In another embodiment, a method of installing a support rail includes providing a support rail system, securing a second portion of the system relative to a fixed structure, and securing a first portion relative to the second portion via an engaging structure.

In another embodiment, a method of temporarily securing one or more support rails in a space includes providing a first portion of a coupling device. The first portion is configured to be releasably secured relative to a second portion of the coupling device via engaging structure of the coupling device. The coupling device is configured to quickly release the first portion from the second portion when the first portion is secured to the second portion. The method also includes securing the first portion relative to a fixed surface in the space.

In yet another embodiment, a space having at least a first and a second configuration includes a first base portion of a coupling device and a second base portion of a coupling device. The first base portion is secured relative to a fixed surface of the space and is secured relative to a first top portion when the space is in the first configuration. The first top portion is configured to quickly release from the first base portion when the space is in the first configuration and the first base portion is not secured relative to the first top portion when the space is in the second configuration. The second base portion is secured relative to the fixed surface of the space and is secured relative to a second top portion when the space is in the first configuration. The second top portion is configured to quickly release from the second base portion when the space is in the first configuration and the second base portion is not secured relative to the second top portion when the space is in the second configuration. The first and second base portions define at least a portion of a path therebetween. In some aspects, the space comprises a rail structure when the space is in the first configuration and the rail structured is secured to, and extends between, the first and second top portions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A is a partially exploded front perspective view of one example of an embodiment of a coupling device which can optionally be used to releasably couple or temporarily secure a support rail with another structure, for example, a fixed surface of a building.

FIG. 1B is a side view of the base portion of the coupling device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a side view of the top portion of the coupling device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is a partially exploded side view of the coupling device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1E is a side view of the coupling device of FIG. 1A with the top portion releasably coupled to the base portion.

FIG. 1F is a cross-sectional view of the coupling device of FIG. 1E taken along line 1F-1F.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one example of an embodiment of a tool for use with the coupling device of FIGS. 1A-1F.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an example of a support rail system including a support rail attached to the coupling device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of an example of a light bar of the support rail of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the inside of an example building.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the example building of FIG. 4A including a plurality of support rails releasably coupled to the building via the coupling devices of FIGS. 1A-1F.

FIG. 4C is an enlarged view of a portion of one support rail and coupling device of FIG. 4B.

FIGS. 4D-4F are perspective views of a person utilizing support rails in the example building of FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an example of a support rail system rotatably attached to the top portion of the coupling device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the inside of an example building including the example support rail system of FIG. 5A coupled to the building via the coupling device of FIGS. 1A-1F.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and make part of this disclosure.

Recent studies indicate that fall related injuries are a serious public health concern among people over the age of 65. For example, more than one out of three older adults fall each year and between 10% and 20% of these incidents cause serious injuries including, for example, bone fractures or head traumas. Further, initially non-fatal fall injuries are associated with considerable morbidity including decreased functioning and loss of independence. As a result, non-fatal fall injuries contribute significantly to the use of healthcare services and resources. In 2002, over 12,900 older adults in the United States died as a result of falls and 1,670,000 older adults were treated in emergency departments for fall related injuries. In the year 2000, it is estimated that direct medical costs for these injuries totaled 200 million dollars for fatal falls and 19 billion dollars for non-fatal flaws. Accordingly, there is an un-met need in this area and new and innovative systems capable of helping to prevent falls, especially in the elderly and disabled, are needed.

The human gait may be described as a cycle of “controlled falls,” which can be distinguished from involuntary or uncontrolled falls or stumbles. Human gait can vary from person to person, and also over time for an example person. For example, a person's gait can be dependent on variables including contact surface properties (e.g., properties of a surface contacted by the person's foot or properties of the person's foot or shoe), environmental properties, personal fears, confidence, mood, quantity and quality of sensory information (e.g., light levels, balance, and neuronal input), mental alertness, and muscle fatigue, among other things.

Although human gait can vary from person to person, and over time for an example person, some stages or events are common for all normal human gaits. These events can include a stance phase and a swing phase for each leg of an individual. The stance phase can include the time when a foot is supported on a ground surface and thereby provides support to the associated body. The stance phases of both legs can overlap, which produces intervals in the gait cycle known as “double support” where both feet are supporting the body via the legs. The swing phase of a leg can include the time when the foot is off the ground and swinging forward from the center of the person's body while the opposite foot remains in contact with the ground surface so as to support the person's body (e.g., a single support interval). The beginning of each swing phase can be marked by the disengagement of the foot and the ground surface (e.g., “toe-off”) and the end of each swing phase can be marked by the subsequent re-engagement of the foot and the ground surface (e.g., “foot-strike”). Similarly, the beginning of each stance phase can be marked by the engagement of the foot and the ground surface and the end of each stance phase can be marked by the subsequent disengagement of the foot and the ground surface.

With some understanding of common phases of human gait, a fall or fall event can be described with reference to these phases. In most instances, a fall occurs at a point of instability during the swing phase of one of the person's legs. More specifically, falls often occur when the person's center of gravity (“COG”) is disposed outside of the person's base of support (“BOS”), which is typically when support for the person is shifted from a swinging leg to the opposite stance phase leg. The BOS can be defined as the minimum area defined within a person's point(s) of contact with a ground surface. That is to say, when standing without a cane or other balance implement the BOS can be defined as the area enclosed by the soles of the person's feet (or shoes). In this way, a smaller BOS provides for less stable variability of the person's COG relative to the BOS. When a person's COG begins to move outside of the BOS, the person detects a reduction in balance and may attempt to compensate for this reduction in balance through a recovery phase. However, if the COG has moved too far outside of the BOS, the reaction time to recover may be too long such that the person is unable to recover, resulting in a fall. In maintaining balance in opposition to falling it is important that the body upright position is aligned the COG over its BOS. Such a relative position can significantly decrease the likelihood that a person falls.

A fall may be caused by one or more factors. For example, factors related to the operation or malfunction of bodily systems responsible for detecting and maintaining balance (e.g. neurological, sensory, and/or motor systems) can contribute to a fall. Other factors unrelated to the operation or malfunction of bodily systems, for example, environmental factors, may also contribute to a fall. In any case, a normally functioning person generally tries to avoid injury during a fall by automatically applying tactics to avoid or to at least minimize damage. However, these tactics may not be available or fully functional for the elderly, permanently disabled, and/or temporarily disabled.

Embodiments disclosed herein include support rails and related systems and methods configured to help maintain a person's COG within the associated BOS to prevent falls and/or to reduce the reaction time required for the recovery phase. Further, embodiments disclosed herein may be utilized to augment and/or replace tactics normally utilized by a person during a fall event to avoid or to at least minimize injury or damage.

Some embodiments disclosed herein include features configured to provide visual inputs to a person's visual system. The visual system relies on light to operate. In some environments or instances, sufficient light may be unavailable and a ground surface, or another object, cannot be seen properly by the person. In other environments or instances, too much light can result in glare or otherwise obfuscate a ground surface or another reference object. Moreover, shadows and particular combinations of colors or textures can reduce depth perception and confuse a person's visual system. Accordingly, some embodiments disclosed herein can optionally provide a light field, for example, a three-dimensional light field, which helps clarify contours and depth of a reference object, e.g., a ground surface, impinged by the light field.

Some embodiments disclosed herein include features configured to aid the vestibular and/or proprioception systems of a person to help prevent a fall and/or to help avoid or to at least minimize an injury during a fall. The vestibular system includes the utricle and the semicircular canals and is responsible for detecting the orientation and movement of the head to provide a person with a sense of balance. Embodiments disclosed herein can provide support rails which help the vestibular system maintain person's COG within the associated BOS. The proprioception system includes receptors in the muscles, tendons, and joints and is responsible for communicating to a person's brain where the body is located in space even when the visual system is not operable or not functioning due to lack of light. For example, the proprioception system can inform the brain whether the associated body is standing up or lying down without any visual input. Embodiments disclosed herein can provide one or more proprioceptive points of reference to help maintain an individual's COG within the associated BOS. For example, embodiments disclosed herein can include support rails having one or more points of contact that may be used as reference points by a person's proprioception system

As discussed above, support rails, support rail systems, and related methods can allow a person to move within a given space safely without requiring a walker, wheelchair, cane, or other assistive implement. However, support rails, for example, hand rails, grasp rails, grab bars, and/or grab rails, are not universally available. For example, not all buildings, facilities, or spaces have support rails because not all individuals require support rails as a matter of course to prevent falls and/or fall related injuries on a day-to-day basis. Also, support rails that are available in a given space may be configured to only satisfy minimum standard requirements, e.g., minimum ADA compliance requirements. Accordingly, implementing support rails and/or support rail systems in all spaces or buildings may be a waste of resources, may limit the available space available for other things, and/or may not be aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, even if implemented to meet minimum standard requirements, some individuals may require or prefer support rail structures that exceed the minimum standard requirements, or may require or prefer support rail structures that do not meet the minimum standard requirements. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide support rail systems that may be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a fixed structure in a given space to provide support rail structures on an as-needed basis and/or to tailor the support rail structures available to suit the needs or requirements of one or more specific individuals or groups of individuals.

In the United States, short-term paid lodging establishments, including hotels and motels, must provide ADA compliant rooms for disabled guests. However, the number of disabled guests staying at an establishment who require or prefer such a room may vary from time to time. As such, it may be desirable to provide systems and methods that allow the rooms of an establishment to be quickly and/or easilyconverted between an ADA compliant room and a non-compliant room on an as-needed basis. For example, a high end suite may be converted or retrofit between a space void of support rails and a space replete with support rails. Conversely, a room primarily intended for use by those who require or prefer support rails may be converted to a room without support rails when a guest using the room does not require or prefer support rails. It should be understood that in some aspects, such embodiments related to convertible rooms or facilities should not be limited to hotel or motel rooms, but can be utilized in any facility, location or structure where convertible or temporary structures may be desired. Non-limiting examples include any structure, site or facility in the hospitality, hosting, travel, and/or entertainment industries, hospitals, healthcare facilities, assisted living and rehabilitation facilities, as well as office and meeting spaces.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide support rails, support rail systems, and related methods that allow any space that may be occupied by one or more individuals, for example, a building or room, to be efficiently converted between a space with no support rail structures and a space with one or more rail structures. That is to say, the support rail systems disclosed herein can be configured to be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a fixed surface in a space, for example, a wall or floor, such that they may be installed and removed in a relatively short period of time, for example, in less than thirty minutes per support rail. In some embodiments, the installation or removal of the support rail systems can be facilitated by a novel quick release coupling device which can be used to temporarily secure a support rail to a fixed structure, for example, a floor or wall, and can allow for a quick installation and/or quick removal of the support rail. In this way, the space may be modified to provide an appropriate configuration of support rail structures in a short period of time on an as-needed basis. Similarly, the space may be temporarily modified to remove a support rail structure as-needed. In some embodiments, a support rail system may be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a building or space with one of the coupling devices disclosed herein and may not utilize existing bolts, screws, or other fasteners to couple a support rail with a fixed structure.

Several non-limiting examples of embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like elements throughout. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner, simply because it is being utilized in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific embodiments. Furthermore, embodiments can include several novel features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or which is essential to practicing the technology herein described.

FIG. 1A is a partially exploded front perspective view of one of an embodiment of a coupling device 100 which can be used, for example, to releasably couple a support rail (or other support device) with another structure (e.g., a surface of a building). As discussed below, the coupling device 100 can be configured as a quick assembly and/or quick release device to quickly and easily couple a support rail with another structure and/or remove the support rail from the other structure. In some embodiments, a rail system may be installed relative to one or more fixed structures using one or more of the coupling devices 100 without requiring the use of bolts, screws, and/or other existing fasteners.

As illustrated, the coupling device 100 can include a base portion 130 having a channel 132 which receives at least part of a top portion 110. To assist in the description of the coupling device 100 and the components thereof, the following coordinate terms are used, consistent with the coordinate axes illustrated in FIG. 1A. A “longitudinal axis” is generally parallel to the channel 132 of the base portion 130. A “radial axis” is any axis that is normal to the longitudinal axis. In addition, as used herein, “the longitudinal direction” refers to a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and “the radial direction” refers to a direction substantially parallel to a radial axis.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the channel 132 of the base portion 130 is defined by an inner surface 134 and the base portion 136 includes an outer surface 136. The outer surface may optionally include one or more grooves or cuts 138 extending toward the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130. The grooves 138 may optionally be utilized to facilitate the coupling or securement of the base portion 130 to another structure, for example, the grooves 138 may provide bonding or adhesive contact points between the base portion 130 and a recess or bore that the base portion 130 may be secured within. For example, the grooves 138 may strengthen an adhesive bond between the base portion 130 and a fixed structure. Other securement mechanisms can be included on the base portion 130 to secure it to a desired surface or structure, including for example, barbs that permit it to move into the surface, but to catch and prevent easy removal; toggles; “butterfly” arms/wings such as found on a butterfly bolt; anchors; toggles; etc.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the example base portion 130 as depicted also includes a pin or rod 140 extending radially through the channel 132 between opposing sides of the inner surface 134. A spring 142 may be coupled or secured to a base surface 137 of the channel 132 below the pin 140. In this way, an unsecured end of the spring 142 may be movable along the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130 relative to the base surface 137. In some embodiments, the spring 142 may be a compression spring such that when the spring 142 is compressed toward the base surface 137 the unsecured end of the spring 142 is biased away from the base surface 137. As discussed in further detail below, compression of the spring 142 can provide for a temporary locking engagement or releasable coupling between the base portion 130 and the top portion 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1C, the top portion 110 of the coupling device 100 can include a collar 112 and a stem 120 extending longitudinally from the collar 112. In some embodiments, the collar 112 can extend radially or outwardly beyond the stem 120 and can include a top inner surface 114 for engaging another structure (e.g., the bottom of a support rail) and a slot 116 extending radially through a portion of the collar 112 toward the longitudinal axis. As shown in FIG. 1C, the stem 120 can include a hole 128 extending radially through a portion of the stem 120 toward the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the slot 116 of the collar 112 can be aligned with the hole 128 of the stem 120 to provide a path through the collar 112 and stem 120 toward the longitudinal axis of the top portion 110. As discussed in further detail below, such a path may be utilized to provide a leverage or contact point to engage and/or disengage the top portion 110 from the base portion 130, in some embodiments. Further, in some embodiments, the slot 116 and/or hole 128 can be sized and/or shaped to complement the shape of a tool, including for example, a specialized tool, for use in disengaging the top portion 110 from the base portion 130.

In some embodiments, a track 124 can extend through a portion of the bottom side 111 of the stem 120 toward the longitudinal axis. As shown in FIG. 1C, the track 124 can optionally include a first portion 123 that is sized and shaped to allow a portion of the pin 140 of the base portion 130 to pass vertically therethrough from the bottom side 111 of the stem 120. The track 124 also optionally can include a second portion 125 that is angularly offset from the first portion 123 about the longitudinal axis and that is also sized and shaped to receive a portion of the pin 140 that may pass through the first portion 123. In this way, in use, the track 124 may be aligned with a portion of the pin 140 such that a portion of the pin 140 passes through the first portion 123 when the top portion 110 of the coupling device 100 is moved longitudinally relative to the base portion 130. Further, the portion of the pin 140 received by the first portion 123 of the track 124 may be guided horizontally to the second portion 125 of the track 124 by rotating the top portion 110 about the longitudinal axis relative to the base portion 130.

As discussed below, in some embodiments, the spring 142 of the base portion 130 may hold the pin 140 within the second portion 125 of the track 124. For example, the spring 142 may apply an upward force on the top portion 110 when the spring is compressed by the bottom side 111 of the stem 120 because the unsecured end of the compressed spring 142 may be biased away from the bottom surface 137 of the base portion 130. In this way, the top portion 110 may be releasably coupled or at least temporarily secured to the base portion 130 via engagement between the track 124 and the pin 140, and the bias of the spring 142.

Although FIGS. 1A-1F illustrate the coupling device 100 as including certain engaging structure, for example, a top portion 110, base portion 130, a pin 140, track 124, and spring 142, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other engaging structures may be utilized to releasably couple or at least temporarily secure a first portion of a coupling device to a second portion of the coupling device. For example, a coupling device can include threadably engaging structures to releasably couple or at least temporarily secure portions of the device relative to one another. Additionally, in some embodiments, a top portion of a coupling device may include a pin and a base portion may include a track and/or a biasing member.

In some embodiments, the top portion 110 of the coupling device can include one or more flexible o-rings, seals, or gaskets 122 disposed about the stem 120. For example, as shown in FIG. 1C, the top portion 110 can include one or more o-rings 122 (e.g., three as depicted in the Figure). The one or more o-rings, when two or more are present, can be spaced apart from one another along the longitudinal axis of the stem 120 between the track 124 and the collar 112. In this way, the o-rings 122 can act to offset the stem 120 from the inner surface 134 of the base portion 130 in the radial direction when the stem 120 is disposed within the channel 132. In some embodiments, the o-rings 122 can be sized and shaped so as to simultaneously engage or contact the stem 120 and the inner surface 134 of the base portion 130 when the stem 120 is disposed within the channel 132. As a result, the top portion 110 may frictionally engage the inner surface 134 of the base portion 130 via the o-rings 122 so as to slightly inhibit longitudinal movement of the top portion 110 relative to the base portion 130.

Further, because the o-rings 122 may comprise one or more flexible materials, for example, one or more rubbers or polymers, the o-rings 122 may allow for at least some radial movement of the collar 112 relative to the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130 even when the stem 120 is disposed within the channel. For example, the o-rings 122, stem 120, and channel 132 can be sized and shaped to allow the collar 112 to move up to a desired distance (e.g., five inches, or more or less) in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130. In other words, the stem 120 may be cantilevered relative to the base portion 130 via the o-rings 122 thereby allowing the collar 112 to deflect back and forth radially relative to the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130. In some embodiments, the o-rings 122, stem 120, and channel 132 can be sized and shaped to allow the collar 112 to move between one inch and three inches, for example, one, two, and/or three inches, in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the base portion 130. As a result, when the base portion 130 is fixed relative to the top portion 110, another structure, for example, a support rail, that is rigidly coupled to the top surface 114 of the collar 112 can be configured to move radially relative to the longitudinal axis of the coupling device 100 even when the stem 120 is disposed within the channel 132.

As discussed above, the top portion 110 of the coupling device 100 can be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to the base portion 130 via engaging structure which can include, for example, the track 124, the pin 140, and the spring 142. An exemplary process for releasably coupling the top portion 110 to the base portion 130 will now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 1D-1F.

As shown in FIG. 1D, the exemplary process for releasably coupling the top portion 110 to the base portion 130 can begin by providing the coupling device 100 with the top portion 110 separate from the base portion 130. In some embodiments, the coupling device 100 can be provided with the base portion 130 fixedly secured or coupled to another structure. For example, the coupling device 100 can be provided with the base portion 130 fixed relative to a wall, floor, ceiling, or other fixed surface of a building. In some embodiments, the base portion 130 can be provided with a cap or cover (not shown) which may be placed over the channel 132 to prevent the channel 132 from collecting unwanted debris and/or to improve the aesthetics of the base portion 130 when it is not releasably coupled to the top portion 110.

With the coupling device 100 provided, the exemplary process may continue by aligning the top portion 110 relative to the base portion 130. For example, the first portion 123 of the track 124 may be aligned in the longitudinal direction relative to the pin 140 such that a radial cross-section of the pin 140 may pass into the track 124 through the first portion 123 when the top portion 110 is moved longitudinally toward the base portion 130. In this way, the bottom side 111 of the top portion 110 may pass beyond the pin 140 and may contact the unsecured end of the spring 142 when the stem 120 is positioned within the channel 132 of the base portion 130. Once in contact with the spring 142, the bottom side 111 of the stem 120 may be advanced downward toward the bottom surface 137 of the base portion 130 so as to compress the spring 142 and to move the pin 142 within the first portion 123 of the track 124 away from the bottom side 111 of the top portion 110.

As shown in FIGS. 1E and 1F, after the spring 142 has been at least partially compressed by the stem 120 and the pin 140 has been received by the first portion 123 of the track 124, the top portion 110 of the coupling device 100 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis to position the pin 140 within the second portion 125 of the track 124. Because the unsecured end of the spring 142 may be biased away from the bottom surface 137 of the channel 132, the lower surface of the second portion 125 may abut or otherwise contact the pin 140 as shown because of the upward force applied on the stem 120 by the spring 142. In this way, the engagement between the pin 140 and the track 124 may be maintained by the force applied by the spring 142 on the top portion 110 to releasably couple or temporarily secure the top portion 110 relative to the base portion 130 at least when the pin 140 is positioned within the second portion 125 of the track 124.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that the coupling device 100 may be provided with the top portion 110 separate from the base portion 130 as shown in FIG. 1D or with the top portion 110 releasably coupled to the base portion 130 as shown in FIG. 1E. To disengage the top portion 110 from the base portion 130, a downward force may be applied to the top portion 110 to re-compress the spring 142 toward the bottom surface 137 of the base portion 130. With the spring 142 compressed by the bottom side 111 of the top portion, the top portion 110 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis relative to the base portion 130 to move the track 124 relative to the retained portion of the pin 140 such that the pin 140 moves from the second portion 125 of the track 124 to the first portion 123. From this position, the top portion 110 can be withdrawn longitudinally relative to the base portion 130 to de-couple or remove the stem 120 from the channel 132.

In some embodiments, the downward force on the top portion 110 required to compress the spring 142 when disengaging or de-coupling the top portion 110 from the base portion 130, and/or when engaging or coupling the top portion 110 with the base portion 130, can be applied to the top portion 110 via a specialized tool. For example, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one of an embodiment of a tool 200 for use with the coupling device of FIGS. 1A-1F. The tool 200 can include an elongate projection 210 extending from a handle 220. The handle 220 can include a grip portion 230 which may be grasped or held by a user. In use, the elongate projection 210 may be guided or otherwise placed through the slot 116 of the collar 112 and the hole 128 of the stem 120 such that a downward force (e.g., a force on the top portion 110 toward the spring 142) can be applied to the top portion 110 via the elongate projection 210 by manipulating the handle 220 of the tool 200.

Although illustrated as having a circular cross-section, the elongate projection 210 can have a differently shaped cross-sectional area that is sized and shaped to complement the cross-section of the hole 128. For example, the elongate projection 210 and the hole 128 can each be sized and shaped to have irregularly shaped cross-sections that are complementary to one another. That is to say, the elongate projection 210 can be keyed relative to the hole 128. In this way, the tool 200 can be adapted to specially match the hole 128 of the top portion 110 such that only a specific tool 200 may be used to disengage or de-couple the top portion 110 from the base portion 130 and/or to engage or couple the top portion 110 with the base portion 130. As a result, the coupling device 100 can be provided with a specialized tool 200 to provide for a quick release of the top portion 110 from the base portion while preventing the de-coupling or disengagement of the coupling device 100 by those without the specialized tool 200. Therefore, the size and shape of the elongate projection 210 of the tool 200 and the hole 128 of the top portion 110 can provide tamper protection for the coupling device 100.

Turning now to FIG. 3A, a perspective view of an of a support rail system 300 including a support rail 310 and two coupling devices 100a, 100b is illustrated. The support rail 310 can include a top rail 312 to be gripped, grasped, grabbed, held, or otherwise contacted by a user. In this way, the support rail 310 can provide a tactile and visual reference to a person to help prevent a fall and/or to aid in minimizing fall related injuries as discussed above. The top rail 312 can be supported on opposing ends by vertical segments 314a, 314b which may extend from the coupling devices 100a, 100b to support the top rail 312 above the coupling devices 100a, 100b. In this way, the vertical segments 314a, 314b can support the top rail 312 above an underlying surface (e.g., a ground surface) to which the base portions 130a can be fixedly secured to. The support rail 310 can also optionally include a cross-bar 320 extending between the vertical segments 314a, 314b to augment the structural integrity of the support rail 310.

In some embodiments a light bar 330 can be disposed below the top rail 312, for example, below the cross-bar 320. Although as illustrated in FIG. 3A as a separate structure, in some embodiments the support rail 310 can include a single bar and the light bar 330 can be incorporated as part of the top rail 312. The light bar 330 may be electrically coupled to a source of energy, for example, a power grid, via an electrical connection 332. It should be understood that the particular location of the light bar 330 and the below described configuration of lights represent just one non-limiting of a location and/or configuration of the bar/lights. The bar and/or lights can be incorporated or attached to other locations on the support rails and/or connectors 100.

As shown in FIG. 3B, in some embodiments, the light bar 330 can include a plurality of light elements 332 disposed on an underside of the light bar 330 and configured to emit a three-dimensional light field so as to illuminate a surface, e.g., a floor or ground surface, disposed below the support rail 310. In some embodiments, each light element 332 can include one or more light sources 334, for example, one or more light emitting diodes. Each light source 334 of each light element 332 can have a light emitting surface which faces a surface below the light bar 330, e.g., a ground surface, at an angle relative to a vertical line between the light bar and the lower surface.

As illustrated, in some embodiments, the light bar 330 optionally can include alternating sets of light elements 332a, 332b with the light sources 334a of light elements 332a facing a ground surface at a different angle than the light sources 334b of light elements 332b. In this way, the light sources 334 can provide a three-dimension light field to illuminate a swath of an underlying surface on both sides of the rail structure 310. Thus, the light bar 330 may illuminate the underlying surface to provide a visual reference for a user of the support rail 310. For example, the light bar 330 may illuminate changes in elevation, changes in surface characteristics, surface features, and/or contour changes of the underlying surface. One of skill will appreciate that the configuration of lights can be modified as desired to provide the desired lighting characteristic and/or to illuminate surfaces, contours, changes in surface, depth and height changes, etc. Accordingly, the light bar 330 may help prevent falls even without requiring tactile or physical contact between a person and the support rail 310. In other embodiments, the light bar 330 can include one or more light elements facing a ground surface at a common angle to provide a differently shaped light field than the illustrated light elements 332a, 332b.

Referring again to FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, the support rail 310 can optionally include one or more accelerometers and/or gyroscopes secured relative to the top rail 312. Such accelerometers and/or gyroscopes can be configured to measure a tilt or orientation of the support rail 310 and/or motion of the support rail 310 relative to a fixed structure, e.g., a floor that the support rail 310 is coupled to. In this way, the one or more accelerometers and/or gyroscopes can track the position and/or movement of the support rail 310 to provide an indication of a possible fall, a fall related impact against the support rail 310, and/or tampering of the support rail 310 (e.g., an unauthorized removal of the support rail 310 from an installed location). For example, a slight but rapid movement may indicate that a person has impacted the support rail 310 and/or suddenly lost contact with the support rail 310, which may be indicators of a fall or fall related injury. Further, a significant range of movement may indicate that the support rail 310 has been removed or uninstalled from a space.

In some embodiments, a motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can optionally be disposed in an area near the support rail 310. For example, one or more motion detection devices and/or motion sensing devices can be coupled to the support rail 310 and/or offset or spaced from the support rail 310. In such embodiments, a motion detection device can be configured to detect the movement of a person relative to the support rail 310 even when the person is not in contact with the support rail 310 and/or a motion sensing device can be configured to sense the movement of a person relative to the support rail 310 even when the person is not in contact with the support rail. In this way, the motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can detect or sense a fall or stumble of a person even if the support rail 310 has not been affected by the fall or stumble. Further, the motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can determine whether a person who has stumbled or fallen has gotten up after the fall or stumble. For example, a motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can be configured to monitor the gait of a person near the support rail 310 and determine whether a movement of the person is outside of the normal patterns of the person's gait. A deviation sensed by the motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can be processed to determine the nature of the deviation. For example, a deviation may be processed to indicate a stumble, fall, or other potentially dangerous movement. Motion of the person subsequent to the deviation can be monitored by the motion detection device and/or motion sensing device to determine whether the person has recovered from the deviation and/or whether the person requires assistance.

In some embodiments, a suitable motion detection device and/or motion sensing device can detect or sense motion by sound, opacity, geomagnetism, reflection of transmitted energy, electromagnetic induction, and/or vibrations. For example, in one embodiment, a motion detection device and/or motion sensing device includes an infrared projector configured to emit infrared energy, a monochrome sensor configured to receive infrared energy emitted from the projector and reflected back to the sensor, and a microchip or processor configured to track any motion of an object relative to the sensor relative to a plurality of axes (e.g., 3 axes or 9 axes) based at least in part on the received infrared energy and emitted infrared energy. In some embodiments, the microchip or processor can store one or more adaptive algorithms configured to store motion data over time.

In some embodiments, the one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, motion detection devices, and/or motion sensing devices may be coupled with a communication system, for example, a wired, wireless, and/or cellular communication network. In such embodiments, changes in the position and/or movement of the support rail 310 can be monitored via the communication system. For example, once an accelerometer and/or gyroscope indicates a significant change in position and/or sudden movement of the support rail, such information may be relayed from the support rail 310 via the communication system, for example, to a computing device, an oral communication device, or any other mechanism for communication. Similarly, once a motion detection device and/or motion sensing device indicates a significant change in position and/or sudden movement of a person, such information may be relayed from the motion detection device and/or motion sensing device via the communication system, for example, to a computing device, an oral communication device, or any other mechanism for communication. The computing device may store this information and/or may provide this information to one or more individual's responsible for monitoring the status of the support rail 310. For example, the support rail 310 and/or motion detection device may be linked with a call center such that an individual responsible for monitoring the support rail 310 may be apprised of a change in position and/or movement of the support rail 310 or of a person relative to the support rail 310 and this responsible individual may take appropriate action if necessary. In some embodiments, when the individual receives a notification that a support rail 310 has changed position and/or moved in a way indicating a fall or fall related impact and/or a notification that a motion detection device and/or motion sensing device has indicated that a person has fallen or stumbled, the individual may attempt to reach the person using the support rail and/or may call for emergency help. In some embodiments, the support rail 310 can include one or more speakers and microphones such that an individual remotely monitoring the support rail 310 and/or motion detection device may communicate directly with a person near the support rail. Also, in some embodiments the support rail 310 can include a device to permit the user of the device to contact a desired system or person. For example, it can include a button to permit the user to initiate a call or to send a message, for example, if the user has fallen or needs assistance. Such embodiments as described above and elsewhere herein may be especially advantageous in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and/or hospitals where falls and/or fall related impacts are common but may be difficult to continuously monitor by providing a means to monitor the use of the support rails and to provide a fast response when falls and/or fall related injuries occur.

Referring again to FIG. 3A, each vertical segment 314 may be fixedly coupled to the top portion 110 of one of the coupling devices 100. In this way, the support rail 310 can be fixedly coupled, secured, or attached to the top portions 110 of the coupling devices 100. In some embodiments, the vertical segments 314 may be coupled to the top portions 110 by bonding, adhering, welding, fastening, or any other suitable means of fixedly coupling two structures to one another. Further, in some embodiments, the vertical segments 314 may be integrally formed with the top portions 110. That is to say, the support rail 310 can include or comprise the top portions 110 of the coupling devices 100. In some embodiments, the vertical segments 314 and/or the rail 310 and the coupling devices 100 can be configured such that one or more of such components can be replaced if necessary. For example, if there is damage to the rail 310 and/or the vertical segment 314, then that portion can be replaced by a new part which can be attached to the coupling device 100. Likewise, if the coupling device 100 or some part of the device 100 is damaged, worn out, etc., then a new coupling device 100 (or component thereof) can be attached and utilized.

As discussed above, the top portions 110 of the coupling devices can be releasably coupled to the base portions 130 via engaging structure of the top portions 110 and the base portions 130. In some embodiments, the top portions 110 can be releasably coupled to the base portions 130 such that the top portions 110 are temporarily locked or secured relative to the base portions 130. As a result, the rail structure 310 can be releasably locked, secured, or coupled to the base portions 130 via the top portions 110.

In some embodiments, the base portions 130 may be fixed relative to another structure. For example, the base portions 130 can be fixedly coupled to a wall, floor, ceiling, or other structure within a building. In such implementations, the support rail system 300 may be installed in the building by releasably coupling the top portions 110 to the fixed base portions 130 as discussed above. Further, the support rail system 300 can be removed or uninstalled from the building by disengaging or de-coupling the top portions 110 from the base portions 130 with the rail structure 310 coupled to the top portions 110. In this way, the support rail system 300 can be used to convert a building or space between a configuration including one or more support rails 310 and a configuration that does not include any support rails 310.

In some embodiments, the support rail system 300 can be used to customize or tailor a support rail configuration required for a given space. For example, an assisted living space may be provided with a default support rail configuration. However, an inhabitant of the space may require additional support rails 310 over time, and these rails can be added using the support rail system 300 and the coupling devices 100. Additionally, when the inhabitant of the space moves away or permanently departs, the support rails 310 can be easily removed to provide a space with fewer, or no, support rails 310 to the next inhabitant. In some embodiments, the lower portions 130 of the coupling devices 100 may remain fixed within the space over time to facilitate the re-configuration of the space with support rails 310. Also, one more of the rails 310 can be removed to permit greater space or improved access, for example, for additional furniture, medical devices, cleaning and/or maintenance machines or devices, healthcare personnel, support personnel, cleaning personnel, emergency personnel, etc.

Turning now to FIG. 4A, a perspective view of the inside of an example building 400 is schematically illustrated. The building 400 includes walls 452 and 454, a floor 456, and a counter 462. Of course, the building 400 may include other structures or surfaces, for example, other walls and/or a ceiling, which have been omitted for clarity of illustration. As illustrated, the base portions 130 of the coupling devices 100 disclosed herein can be fixedly coupled to one or more of the walls 452, 454, floor 456, and a counter 462. For example, the base portions 130 can be disposed in holes in the walls 452, 454, floor 456, and counter 462, and the base portions 130 can be bonded, fastened, or otherwise attached to the building 400 in these holes. Although illustrated in FIG. 4A as coupled to the walls 452, 454, floor 456, and counter 462, a person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the base portions 130 can be fixedly coupled to other structure(s) within the building 400. For example, one or more base portions 130 may be fixedly coupled with a ceiling of the building 400 and/or to any other fixed structure or surface.

In some embodiments, the locations of the base portions 130 can be determined based on a specific layout or set-up of the building 400. For example, base portions 130 can be positioned in the floor 456 near the position of a bed 460 such that support rails may be installed in the building 400 near the bed 460 via the base portions 130. Similarly, the base portions 130 can be positioned along the walls 452, 454 to allow for the installation of a support rail path along the walls. In other embodiments, the base portions 130 may be spaced apart from one another and disposed regularly throughout the building 400 at continuous intervals. That is to say, the positioning or placement of base portions 130 in the building 400 need not depend on an intended layout or configuration of a building 400 and base portions 130 can allow support rail structures to be installed throughout the building 400 in different configurations.

Turning now to FIG. 4B, the example building 400 of FIG. 4A is schematically illustrated with a plurality of support rails 410a-410d installed throughout the illustrated space. In some embodiments, each support rail 410 can be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a fixed structure of the building 400, for example, the walls 452, 454, floor 456, and/or counter 462 via one or more coupling devices 100. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C, a support rail 410 can be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to the floor 456 of the building 400 via the engagement between the top portion 110 and the base portion 130 of a coupling device 100. In some embodiments, the collar 112 of the top portion 110 of the coupling device can be fixedly attached or secured relative to the rail structure 410a. Thus, because the base portion 130 is fixed relative to the floor 456, when the top portion 110 is releasably coupled to the base portion 130, the rail structure 410a is releasably coupled to the floor 456 of the building 400. As mentioned above, in some embodiments the coupling devices 100 can provide for a quick securement and/or quick release of the support rails 410 relative to the building 400.

As discussed above, in some embodiments engaging structure of the coupling device 100 may optionally include a pin 140, track 124, and spring 142. In this way, the top portion 110 may be releasably coupled to the base portion 130 by compressing the spring 142 and rotating the track 124 relative to the pin 140. Similarly, the top portion 110 may be de-coupled from the base portion 130 by compressing the spring 142, rotating the track 124 relative to the pin 140, and withdrawing the top portion 110 from the base portion 130. Thus, the building 400 may be efficiently converted between a configuration without any support rails (FIG. 4A) and a configuration with one or more support rails (FIG. 4B) in a relatively short period of time. Moreover, as discussed above, the coupling devices 100 may be provided with a specially shaped and/or sized tool such that the coupling and/or de-coupling of the coupling devices 100 may be difficult, if not impossible, to perform without the specialized tool. Therefore, although the support rails 410 may be efficiently installed within the building 400 with the coupling devices 100, the installation and/or removal of the support rails 410 can be controlled via a specialized tool required for these operations. Accordingly, it may be difficult to tamper or alter the support rail configuration illustrated in FIG. 4B without a specialized tool adapted to couple and de-couple the portions of the coupling devices 100.

Although FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate an exemplary building 400 including support rail systems including support rails 410 and coupling devices 100, those of skill in the art will appreciate that other methods of releasably coupling one or more support rails to one or more fixed structures are contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, support rails systems can include differently configured coupling devices than those shown in FIG. 4A-4C. Such coupling devices can allow one or more support rails to be releasably coupled or temporarily secured relative to another structure so as to provide or remove the one more support rails in a given space. It should also be noted that lights and/or light bars 330 are not depicted in FIGS. 4A-4C, but lights and/or bars can be included on the depicted structures, if desired. For example, on one or more of the hand rails, vertical members, coupling devices, etc. It should also be understood that detectors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and/or other sensing devices can be utilized as described herein.

Still referring to FIG. 4C, as mentioned above, some embodiments of the coupling devices 100 disclosed herein can include one or more o-rings 122 or other flexible structures disposed between the stems 120 of the coupling devices 100 and the base portions 130. In some embodiments, without being limited thereto, the inclusion of such structures can permit the support rails 410 to move radially relative to the fixed base portions 130, even when the top portions 110 are releasably coupled to the base portions 130. That is to say, the support rails 410 can deflect or sway slightly when contacted by a person. As a result, the deflection of swaying of the support rails 410 may absorb at least some of the force of contact when a person inadvertently falls against, or otherwise contacts, the support rail 410. Thus, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4C may prevent or minimize fall related injuries (e.g., contusions or fractures caused by contact with a rigid and/or unmoving support rail).

FIGS. 4D-4F are perspective views of a person 480 utilizing support rails 410 in the building 400 of FIG. 4B. As shown in FIGS. 4D-4F, in some embodiments, the building 400 can be configured with support rails 410 so as to provide a continuous “line of sight” path formed by the support rails 410 between two or more points within the building 400. For example, as shown in FIG. 4D, the example person 480 may utilize a first support rail 410a to get into, or get out of, the bed 460. Once standing, the person 480 may contact other support rails 410b, 410c, and 410e, for example, with one or more hands 482, to advance from a first position near the bed 460 (FIG. 4D) to a second position near the counter 462 (FIG. 4F). Thus, a path for the person 480 within the building 400 may include at least one support rail 410 to physically and/or visually reference between the first position and the second position. In this way, the support rails 410 can be utilized to prevent falls or minimize fall related injuries for the person 480. Accordingly, the person 480 may feel more confident and independent within the building 400 with the support rails 410 installed (FIG. 4B) than without the support rails (FIG. 4A).

The rail systems in some embodiments can be located in locations where such rails are not usually located. For example, in many cases, stairway railings and wall railings are within just a few inches of a wall. While the devices described herein can be secured in the same or similar locations, in some embodiments of the instant technology, the rails can be located or placed (temporarily or permanently) with much greater flexibility and diversity, for example, to project anywhere from 2 inches to 5 feet from a wall to which they are attached. Similarly, rails that are least partially floor mounted can be located anywhere from an inch or several inches to 10, 20 or 30 feet into a structure or room. Such flexibility in location, not to mention the fact that the systems can be removable, can be advantageous, for example, due to not requiring the user to have to follow the path of a wall exclusively, due to not requiring the user to travel some distance to a wall without the assistance of a rail before contacting a rail, due to not having any or as many gaps between rails, and/or due to provide more direct paths within a structure (e.g., to a bathroom, a doorway, a counter, etc.).

Although FIGS. 4A-4F illustrate an support rail path between a first position and a second position, those of skill in the art will appreciate that other paths may be formed within a building using the support rails, support rail systems, and related methods disclosed herein. For example, a building or space may include a network of support rails that are releasably coupled or temporarily secured to the building or space via coupling devices. Such a network can include a plurality of nodes or intersections of rail structure paths. In this way, the network of support rails can include a three or more discrete locations and each of the discrete locations can be reached via a rail structure path from each of the other discrete locations.

With reference to FIG. 5A, a perspective view of another example of a support rail system 500 is schematically depicted. The support rail system 500 includes a top portion 110 of a coupling device and a support rail 515 coupled thereto. The support rail 515 can include a first portion 520 extending longitudinally relative to the top portion 110 and a second portion 510 disposed at a distal end of the first portion 520. In some embodiments, the second portion 510 extends radially from the first portion 520 such that the first portion 520 and the second portion 510 form a T-shaped structure. In this way, the support rail 515 can include a longitudinally extending structure and a radially extending structure that a person may grab, grasp, hold, or otherwise contact. While a “T” shaped structure is depicted, it should be understood that other structures similarly can be utilized, for example, “L,” “J,” “U,” or other (letter like or non-lettered) shapes.

In some embodiments, the support rail 515 may be coupled to the collar 112 of the top portion 110 by a bracket 529. Further, the bracket 529 optionally can be rotatably coupled to the first portion 520 at a pivot point 527. In this way, the support rail 515 may be secured relative to the top portion 110 via the bracket 529 but may rotate about the pivot point 527 along a plane including the longitudinal axis of the top portion 110 and a radial axis of the top portion 110.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the inside of an example building 570 including the example support rail system 500 of FIG. 5A. As shown, the support rail system 500 may be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a wall 552 of the building 570 via a coupling device 100. That is to say, the top portion 110 of the coupling device illustrated in FIG. 5A may be releasably coupled or temporarily secured to a base portion of the coupling device fixed relative to the wall 552 to releasably couple the support rail 515 relative to the wall 515. Therefore, the support rail 515 can be efficiently installed and/or removed via the coupling device 100 as discussed above.

As shown in FIG. 5B, the longitudinal axis of the coupling device 100 may extend perpendicularly through the wall 552. As a result, the support rail 515 can rotate, pivot, swivel, or otherwise move about the pivot point 527 relative to the building 570 and the wall 552. In some embodiments, the coupling device 100 may be installed within the building 570 to allow the support rail 515 to swivel horizontally between at least a first position and a second position. For example, the support rail 515 can be configured to swivel between a first position located near a shower 572 and a second position located near a toilet 574. In this way, the first portion 520 and/or the second portion 510 can be utilized by a person for support and/or stability when the person is near the first position, second position, and/or in between the first position and the second position. For example, a person may utilize the support rail 515 when lowering themselves to the toilet 574, when rising from the toilet 574, and/or when standing near the toilet 574. Further, the person may utilize the support rail 515 when stepping into the shower 572, when showering, and/or when exiting the shower. Thus, a single support rail system 500 can be utilized by a person at different positions within a given space.

It should also be understood that the rails and rails systems depicted in FIGS. 1-4 also can include mechanisms to permit the rails to fold, to rotate (e.g., about one of the vertical members or legs), etc. For example, one or more vertical members and/or coupling device can include a pivot point or joint (that can be locked and/or unlocked) to permit movement of the rail or rail system (e.g., to allow a wall mounted rail to fold relatively flush or parallel with the wall, to allow a floor mounted rail to fold parallel to the floor or to rotate about one of its legs/vertical members. The rotation or other movement can be configured to only occur at a desired time or under desired circumstances such as when a locking mechanism has been unlocked.

The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the devices and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the devices and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. The scope of the disclosure should therefore be construed in accordance with the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments, as defined by the appended claims. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment can be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A support rail system comprising:

a support rail; and

a coupling device for securing the support rail to a fixed structure, the coupling device comprising a first portion secured relative to the support rail, a second portion configured to be secured relative to the fixed structure, and engaging structure configured to secure the first portion to the second portion at least when the second portion is secured to the fixed structure, wherein the coupling device is configured to quickly release the first portion from the second portion when the first portion is secured to the second portion.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first portion comprises a stem and a collar extending outwardly from a longitudinal axis of the first portion.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the collar is secured relative to the support rail.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the second portion comprises a channel configured to receive at least a portion of the stem.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the stem is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis relative to the channel at least when the stem is at least partially received within the channel.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein a range of rotation of the stem relative to the channel is defined at least in part by the engaging structure.

7. The system of claim 4, wherein the first portion comprises at least one o-ring disposed about the stem.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the at least one o-ring is configured to offset the stem from the second portion in the radial direction when the stem is at least partially received within the channel.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the first portion is cantilevered relative to the second portion via the at least one o-ring.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first portion is configured to deflect in a radial direction relative to a longitudinal axis of the second portion.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first portion is configured to deflect between one and three inches relative to the second portion.

12. The system of claim 2, wherein the first portion comprises a radially extending slot configured to receive at least a portion of a tool.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the slot is sized and shaped to complement a cross-section of the portion of the tool configured to be received within the slot.

14. The system of claim 13, further comprising the tool.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the tool comprises a handle and an elongate projection.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the engaging structure comprises:

a pin; and

a track configured to receive at least a portion of the pin, the track including an abutment surface configured to engage the pin when the pin is received within the track.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the engaging structure includes a biasing member configured to apply a force between the pin and the abutment surface.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the biasing member comprises a compression spring.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the support rail comprises at least one of a hand rail, a grasp rail, a grab bar, and a grab rail.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the support rail includes one or more light elements.

21. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more accelerometers or gyroscopes secured relative to the support rail.

22. The system of claim 1, further comprising a communication system configured to receive information from the one or more accelerometers and transfer the received information.

23. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one motion sensing device configured to sense the movement of a person relative to the support rail.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein the at least one motion sensing device is configured to sense the motion of a person relative to the support rail when the person is not in contact with the support rail or the at least one motion sensing device is configured to monitor the gate of a person disposed near the support rail and determine whether a movement of the person is outside of the normal patterns of the person's gait.

25. A space having at least a first and a second configuration, the space comprising:

a first base portion of a coupling device secured relative to a fixed surface of the space, wherein the first base portion is secured relative to a first top portion when the space is in the first configuration, wherein the first top portion is configured to quickly release from the second base portion when the space is in the first configuration, and wherein the first base portion is not secured relative to the first top portion when the space is in the second configuration; and

a second base portion of a coupling device secured relative to the fixed surface of the space, wherein the second base portion is secured relative to a second top portion when the space is in the first configuration, wherein the second top portion is configured to quickly release from the second base portion when the space is in the first configuration, and wherein the second base portion is not secured relative to the second top portion when the space is in the second configuration,

wherein the first and second base portions define at least a portion of a path therebetween.

26. The space of claim 25, wherein the space comprises a rail structure when the space is in the first configuration, the rail structure being secured to, and extending between, the first and second top portions.

27. The space of claim 25, wherein the fixed surface comprises a wall, ceiling, or floor.