Mobility-Aid-Attachable Storage Device

Abstract

A mobility-aid-attachable storage device is provided. The device is designed to be mounted to a mobility aid including, but not limited to, a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator. The device comprises a primary body mounted via at least one fastener assembly that includes mechanical coupling mechanisms, which may be adjustable to accommodate various shaft cross-sections. A vibration-dampening interface may be integrated into the fastener assembly to enhance attachment stability. The primary body includes a container receiving area configured to accommodate containers of various shapes, and includes retention structures and optional drainage features. Additionally, a personal item receiving area is integrated into the body, which may include internal dividers and closure mechanisms to organize and protect smaller articles. The body may also comprise an integrated flashlight module powered by a battery that may be rechargeable through various interfaces and monitored using a charge status indicator.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/754,640, which was filed on February 6, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of mobility aids. More specifically, the present invention relates to a device that is attachable to a mobility aid using an adjustable mounting assembly designed to fit various support structures and enhance stability. The device comprises a main body configured to hold containers and personal items and includes an integrated illumination module with user-controlled lighting functions. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

Individuals who rely on mobility aids such as canes often face challenges related to the transportation and secure handling of personal items. Because one hand is typically engaged with the mobility device, the remaining hand must manage multiple functions, which can lead to difficulty carrying essential objects. Common issues include dropping keys, fumbling with cups, or the inability to store small items such as medications or electronic devices while walking. These problems can create frustration and dependency, potentially requiring users to seek assistance from others for tasks that would otherwise be routine. Moreover, the lack of integrated storage solutions on conventional mobility aids reduces the user’s ability to remain self-sufficient. Current solutions like clip-on bags or external cup holders are often unstable, incompatible with varying shaft geometries, or lack features that improve accessibility and ease of use. These deficiencies underline the necessity for a solution that integrates securely with mobility aids, stores essential items safely, and supports independent living.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that securely holds personal items without interfering with the user's ability to operate the mobility aid. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that accommodates various shaft geometries and provides vibration resistance for stable attachment. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that includes dedicated compartments for both containers and smaller personal articles while integrating additional utility features such as a light source.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a mobility-aid-attachable storage device. The device is designed to be mounted to a mobility aid including, but not limited to, a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator. The device comprises a primary body mounted via at least one fastener assembly that includes mechanical coupling mechanisms, which may be adjustable to accommodate various shaft cross-sections. A vibration-dampening interface may be integrated into the fastener assembly to enhance attachment stability. The primary body includes a container receiving area configured to accommodate containers of various shapes, and includes retention structures and optional drainage features. Additionally, a personal item receiving area is integrated into the body, which may include internal dividers and closure mechanisms to organize and protect smaller articles. The body may also comprise an integrated flashlight module powered by a battery that may be rechargeable through various interfaces and monitored using a charge status indicator. The flashlight is actuated via a user-operable control supporting multiple illumination modes.

In this manner, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a device that can securely attach to a wide range of mobility aids through adjustable fasteners and vibration-dampening materials, thereby ensuring compatibility and stability. The inclusion of distinct receiving areas for both containers and small personal items addresses the problem of carrying multiple objects without occupying the user's hands. The integration of a directional flashlight further enhances the device’s utility, offering improved visibility and user safety. Overall, the invention directly mitigates the difficulties associated with item transport while using a mobility aid, thereby promoting greater independence and convenience for users.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a mobility-aid-attachable storage device. The device is designed for attachment to a mobility aid such as a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator and is comprised of a primary body mounted via at least one fastener assembly. The fastener assembly comprises one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms and may be adjustable to accommodate various shaft geometries. A vibration-dampening interface comprising elastomeric materials may be included to reduce motion-induced vibrations and enhance attachment stability.

The body comprises a container receiving area configured to retain containers such as water bottles or cans. The receiving area may have various shapes and includes a retention structure for securing containers and a drainage opening optionally sealed with a removable plug. The primary body further comprises a personal item receiving area designed to store small articles. The area may be a pocket or recess with a closure secured by a fastener and may include an internal divider for organizing contents.

An integrated flashlight may also be included in the primary body. The flashlight may have a fixed or adjustable mount and comprises a light source such as an LED or multi-diode array. The light source is powered by a battery, which may be removable or rechargeable. Rechargeable embodiments include a charging interface and a charge status indicator that provides feedback through visual, auditory, or haptic means. The light source is actuated via a user-operable control comprising a button, dial, touchpad, or switch, and supports multiple operating modes including continuous illumination, flashing, SOS signaling, and variable brightness.

The device is also comprised of a method of use involving attaching the body to a mobility aid, inserting a container into the container receiving area, storing personal items in the personal item receiving area, and actuating the flashlight using the control to select a desired lighting mode.

Accordingly, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device that can securely attach to a wide range of mobility aids through adjustable fasteners and vibration-dampening materials, thereby ensuring compatibility and stability. The inclusion of distinct receiving areas for both containers and small personal items addresses the problem of carrying multiple objects without occupying the user's hands. The integration of a directional flashlight further enhances the device’s utility, offering improved visibility and user safety. Overall, the invention directly mitigates the difficulties associated with item transport while using a mobility aid, thereby promoting greater independence and convenience for users. In this manner, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device overcomes the limitations of existing mobility aids and methods of use known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a mobility-aid-attachable storage device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a rear perspective view of one potential embodiment of a mobility-aid-attachable storage device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a mobility-aid-attachable storage device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that securely holds personal items without interfering with the user's ability to operate the mobility aid. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that accommodates various shaft geometries and provides vibration resistance for stable attachment. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a mobility-aid-attachable storage device that includes dedicated compartments for both containers and smaller personal articles while integrating additional utility features such as a light source.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a mobility-aid-attachable storage device. The device is configured for attachment to a mobility aid such as a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator. The device features a primary body secured by at least one fastener assembly. The fastener assembly includes one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms and may be adjustable to fit a range of shaft geometries. To improve attachment stability and reduce motion-induced vibrations, a vibration-dampening interface comprising elastomeric materials may also be incorporated.

The body includes a container receiving area intended to hold items such as water bottles or cans. This area may be shaped in various forms and features a retention structure to secure the container, along with a drainage opening that can be sealed using a removable plug. Additionally, the primary body may be comprised of a personal item receiving area designed for storing small items. The area may be formed as a pocket or recess and is equipped with a closure secured by a fastener. An internal divider may also be included for content organization.

Also integrated into the primary body is a flashlight, which may be mounted in either a fixed or adjustable orientation. The flashlight includes a light source, such as an LED or multi-diode array, and is powered by a battery that may be removable or rechargeable. Rechargeable configurations may feature a charging interface and a charge status indicator that delivers visual, auditory, or haptic feedback. A user-operable control, which may take the form of a button, dial, touchpad, or switch, enables actuation of the light source and supports several operating modes, including continuous illumination, flashing, SOS signaling, and variable brightness.

A method of using the device comprises attaching the device to a mobility aid, placing a container into the container receiving area, storing small items within the personal item receiving area, and operating the flashlight through the control to select the desired lighting mode.

As a result, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device offers significant advantages, as it can securely affix to various mobility aids using adjustable fasteners and vibration-dampening materials, ensuring compatibility and stable performance. The inclusion of distinct storage areas for both containers and small personal belongings addresses the challenge of carrying multiple items without engaging the user’s hands. The integrated directional flashlight further enhances safety and visibility. Collectively, the invention addresses the limitations of conventional mobility aids by improving convenience, independence, and user experience.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is designed to attach to a mobility aid 10 such as, but not limited to, a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator, as seen in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the device 100 is comprised of a primary body 110. The body 110 may be mounted to the mobility aid 10 via at least one fastener assembly 120.

The fastener assembly 120 may be comprised of one or more mechanical coupling mechanisms, such as, but not limited to, clips, clamps, snap-fit fasteners, threaded collars, hook-and-loop straps, vise grip-type structures, or cam lock mechanisms. The fastener assembly 120 may be adjustable to accommodate shafts of varying diameters and geometries of a mobility aid 10, including, but not limited to, circular, elliptical, polygonal, or irregular cross-sections. The fastener assembly 120 may further include a vibration-dampening interface 130 (as seen in FIG. 2) comprised of elastomeric materials such as, but not limited to, rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, or foam padding. The vibration-dampening interface 130 may reduce the transmission of motion-induced vibrations from the mobility aid 10 to the body 110 and may enhance attachment stability under dynamic load conditions.

The body 110 may be comprised of a container receiving area 140, as seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The receiving area 140 may be configured to receive and retain a container such as, but not limited to, a water bottle, thermos, beverage can, or similar vessel. The receiving area 140 may have a shape such as, but not limited to, cylindrical, semi-cylindrical, tapered, or frustoconical to accommodate various container profiles. The receiving area 140 may include a retention structure 142, such as, but not limited to, elastic bands, flexible gripping arms with inward bias, spring-biased clamping mechanisms, or inner linings providing frictional retention. The area 140 may include a drainage opening 144 to allow the egress of liquid from the area 140. The drainage opening 144 may optionally be equipped with a removable plug 146.

The body 110 may further be comprised of a personal item receiving area 150 configured for receiving and storing small articles such as, but not limited to, keys, coins, medications, identification cards, personal electronics, etc. The receiving area 150 may be formed as a pocket or recess integrated into the surface of the body 110. The receiving area 150 may include a closure 152, such as, but not limited to, a hinged lid, sliding cover, flexible flap, zipper closure, etc. The closure 152 may be secured closed using a fastener 154, such as, but not limited to, magnetic snaps, mechanical latches, hook-and-loop fasteners, press-fit mechanisms, elastic bands, snap buttons, mechanical fasteners, etc., as seen in FIG. 1 In one embodiment, the area 150 is comprised of an internal divider 156 to organize stored items or segregate contents.

The body 110 may additionally be comprised of an integrated flashlight 160. The flashlight 160 may be provided in a fixed orientation or configured with an adjustable mount 164 that permits directional aiming in forward, downward, lateral, or user-defined orientations. The flashlight 160 may be comprised of a light source 162, such as, but not limited to, an LED, COB (chip-on-board) light module, or a multi-diode array.

The light source 162 may be powered by a battery 170, as seen in FIG. 1. The battery 170 may be a removable battery pack or a fixed rechargeable module embedded within the body 110. In embodiments where the battery 170 is rechargeable, a charging interface 172 may be included that may be comprised of one or more electrical ports or wireless charging systems such as, but not limited to, a USB Type-C port, magnetic charging contacts, inductive charging coils, a barrel connector, etc. The battery 170 may be electrically coupled to a charge status indicator 176, which may provide visual, auditory, or haptic feedback regarding the power level of the battery 170. Example indicators include, but are not limited to, LED arrays, blinking lights, audible tones, or vibrating alerts indicating battery charge level and/or charging progress.

The light source 162 may be actuated via a user-operable control 180, as seen in FIG. 1. The control 180 may be comprised of a mechanical or capacitive button, rotary dial, touch-sensitive pad, a switch, etc. The control 180 may support a plurality of operating modes such as, but not limited to, continuous illumination, intermittent flashing, SOS signaling, or variable brightness levels.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a body 110, at least one fastener assembly 120, a vibration-dampening interface 130, a container receiving area 140, a personal item receiving area 150, an integrated flashlight 160, a battery 170, and a user-operable control 180 [Step 202]. Then, the fastener assembly 120 is used to attach the body 110 to a mobility aid 10 such as a cane, walker, crutch, or rollator [Step 204]. Next, a container can be inserted into the container receiving area 140, which is configured to receive vessels such as water bottles or cans and may include a retention structure 142 and a drainage opening 144 optionally sealed with a removable plug 146 [Step 206]. Then, personal items can be stored within the personal item receiving area 150, which may be closed using a closure 152 secured by a fastener 154 and optionally organized using an internal divider 156 [Step 208]. The flashlight 160 can also be actuated via the control 180, enabling the user to select among various lighting modes provided by the light source 162 powered by the battery 170 [Step 210].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “mobility-aid-attachable storage device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the mobility-aid-attachable storage device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user’s needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A mobility-aid-attachable storage device comprising:

a body comprised of a fastener and a container receiving area;

a flashlight configured to be operated via a control; and

a battery.

2. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 1, wherein the fastener is comprised of a clip or a clamp.

3. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 1, wherein the fastener is comprised of a vibration-dampening interface.

4. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 1, wherein the flashlight attaches to the body via an adjustable mount.

5. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 1, wherein the container receiving area is comprised of a drainage opening.

6. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 5 further comprised of a drainage plug.

7. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 5 further comprised of a personal item receiving area.

8. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 7, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a recess or a pocket.

9. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 7, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a closure.

10. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 9, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a fastener.

11. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 7, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of an internal divider.

12. A mobility-aid-attachable storage device comprising:

a body comprised of a fastener and a container receiving area comprised of a retention fastener;

a flashlight configured to be operated via a control; and

a battery comprised of a charging port.

13. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 12, wherein the retention fastener is comprised of an elastic band, a flexible gripping arm, a spring-biased clamping mechanism, or a frictional inner lining.

14. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 12, wherein the container receiving area is comprised of a drainage opening.

15. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 14 further comprised of a drainage plug.

16. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 12 further comprised of a personal item receiving area.

17. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 16, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a recess or a pocket.

18. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 16, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a closure.

19. The mobility-aid-attachable storage device of claim 16, wherein the personal item receiving area is comprised of a fastener.

20. A method of using a mobility-aid-attachable storage device, the method comprising the following steps:

providing a mobility-aid-attachable storage device comprised of a body, a fastener, a container receiving area, an integrated flashlight, a battery, and a control;

attaching the body to a mobility aid using the fastener;

inserting a container into the container receiving area; and

actuating the flashlight via the control.