Abstract: A method for guiding the blind includes: determining a target direction; and controlling a mechanical device to shift its center of gravity toward the target direction according to the target direction; wherein the mechanical device comprises a balance weight, a connecting rod, and a rotating axis, the connecting rod is connected to the rotating axis, and the balance weight is located on the connecting rod.

Abstract: An illuminated walking assistance apparatus. The illuminated walking assistance apparatus is made in the form of a staff having a light pipe in the lower portion thereof which provides diffused illumination in the immediate vicinity of the apparatus and at the same time, a bright light visible for a substantial distance to alert or signal others. A walking aid that may include an elongated support shaft to be used as a walking support. The length of the support shaft may extend between an upper end and a lower end. At the upper end of the elongated support shaft, the walking aid support may include a handle assembly that includes a hand grip. The walking aid may include a light source having a user interface that may be designed to selectably emit light outward from the elongated support shaft.

Abstract: A crutch and method of carrying packages using such crutch are disclosed. The crutch comprises a plurality of metal poles connected together and covered by an insulating material. An outwardly extending finger element along an upper edge on a top of the crutch is configured to detachably mount a package having a hanging loop by draping the hanging loop on the finger element. The crutch includes side poles and a center pole sandwiched between the side poles. A pocket for receiving a package or other item is between the side poles and an enclosure holding a stretchable netting is mounted to the crutch and is configured to enable a user to withdraw the netting from the enclosure and wrap the netting around the package. The user detachably connects a free end of the netting to a portion of crutch to secure the package to the crutch.

Abstract: The present cane and grabber device can comprise a cane component and a grabber component. The grabber component can be housed within the cane component or can be unsheathed from the cane component and utilized to grab one or more objects. In an embodiment, the cane component can provide support to a user both while housing the grabber component and while the grabber component has been unsheathed. In an alternative embodiment, one or more grabber components can be housed by a walker or other similar support providing device.

Abstract: A walking cane is provided having an elongated length, a handle grip, a forward-directed illumination source, and an ambient light sensor. The device provides a cane-user with forward illumination during twilight and dark periods, whereby the ambient light sensor operably energizes the light source when in an appropriate operational mode. A secondary mode allows the user to manually operate or deactivate the light source by hand controls, wherein each option is selectable from a three-way switch at the base of the handle grip. The length of the cane may be adjustable and its structure may take on an ergonomic shape, while the lower distal end is capped with a cane ferrule.

Abstract: A walking stick that takes inspiration from nature to absorb energy in the downward first motion of a walking stride and then return the stored energy to aid in propelling the walker forward in the final forward motion of the walking stride all the while keeping the walker in an ergonomically correct position which minimizes discomfort and reduces wasted energy. The walking stick that is the subject of this patent application utilizes a dual flexure spring configured in an S-shape (hereafter referred to as an S-flexure spring) as an extension of the straight shaft of the stick. The shape and location of the S-flexure spring are such that the spring force helps propel the walker forward.

Abstract: A rigid tube extending along an axis is provided with a rectangular cross-section having enlarged centrally disposed arcuate sections for receiving tubular structural portions of walk assist devices such as canes or crutches. The rigid tube is provided with patterns of threaded mounting holes that accept locking machine bolts extending through mounting holes in a mounting plate; the mounting plate is provided with an arcuate groove for contacting and clamping a structural portion of a wheelchair or walker.

Abstract: Height-adjustable apparatus using a spring to urge forward and rearward undulating whippy locomotion. A hand-crawling embodiment enables users to engage in all-fours crawling locomotion while the body is conventionally situated in a two-legged orientation. A foot-bounding embodiment enables walkers, joggers, runners and jumpers to engage in forward and backward whippy locomotion. A crutch embodiment enables crippled or injured users to likewise engage in whippy locomotion.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a basketball stopping apparatus arranged for attachment to a basketball goal assembly. In some embodiments, the basketball stopping apparatus is configurable between a first position and a second position, the first position being arranged for the deflection of errant basketball shots and the second position being arranged for storage of the basketball stopping apparatus before and/or after use. Additionally, some embodiments include a wall coupled to base arms that are pivotably mounted to a bottom end of the basketball goal assembly.

Abstract: Devices and systems are disclosed which allow a user easier transfer from a seated position into a standing position, particularly those that are adapted to be usable as conventional canes and crutches when not employed for rising from a seat. Seated positions in which the present devices are applicable include at least seated positions in a car, on a commode, and in a bed.

Abstract: An electronic safety baton for providing a portable, multifunction security apparatus which includes both visual and audible interface is embodied as a baton housing that externally includes a lighting element, a speaker, a display screen, pulse sensors, two manual actuators, and a baton charging surface, internally includes a rechargeable battery, and utilizes a discrete floor charger mat. The electrically interconnected components on and in the baton housing enable a pulse reading system, a lighting system, and a panic system, each of which use electricity from the battery and are activated through manual engagement. The baton charging surface, when engaged with the floor charger mat, enables the recharging of the battery by allowing externally sourced electricity to be directed to the battery.

Abstract: Described is a walker that is a front entry walker that surrounds the user with a frame on three sides and that includes a fold-down seat when needed. The frame includes a first side frame, a second side frame and a rear frame connected between the first and second side frames. The rear frame includes the seat such that when the seat is in the stowed position, the seat in conjunction with the first and second side frames collectively surround the user on at least three sides. Further, an adjustable arm rest is attached with each of the first and second side frames. Notably, each adjustable arm rest has a forearm support and corresponding brake system.

Abstract: A rain protection system is provided herein which includes, (a) an umbrella having a canopy mounted to a post, and a handle at a lower end of the post, the handle having an open bottom end and having a hollow axial cavity; and (b) rain gear which is adapted to be removably insertable into said hollow axial cavity.

Abstract: The stabilizing turning aid system is a support platform that is specially designed for assisting mobility-challenged users in rising from and sitting in a chair, and to improve the ability of a physically challenged person to pivot their entire body with minimal body movement for greater mobility.

Abstract: A camera assembly for an oven appliance including an attachment mechanism, an arm, and a camera is provided. The attachment mechanism is configured for attachment to a handle of an oven appliance door. The arm extends from the attachment mechanism to the camera, and attaches to at least one of the camera or a housing, if provided. The camera records or transmits images of the oven cavity to, e.g., a user device allowing a user to monitor a doneness of any food items positioned within the oven appliance.

Abstract: An attachment apparatus for a crutch including a pair of horizontal supports, a rectangular attachment having a back side and a front side, and a pair of clips. The pair of horizontal supports includes an upper support and a lower support. A right end of each of the upper support and the lower support, and a left end of each of the upper support and the lower support are attached to a right side support of a crutch and a left side support of a crutch, respectively. The pair of clips includes an upper clip and a lower clip. Each of the upper clip and the lower clip has a female receptor and a male member. Each of the female receptors is disposed on each of the pair of horizontal supports, and each of the male members is disposed on the back side of the attachment.

Abstract: A foot cushion mechanism with lifting function is disclosed. The foot cushion mechanism includes a foot cushion member, a holding base and at least one shape memory material member. The foot cushion member is installed on a housing and abuts against a supporting surface. The holding base and the foot cushion member are respectively installed on opposite sides of the housing. The at least one shape memory material member selectively connects the housing and the holding base or connects the holding base and the foot cushion member. The at least one shape memory material member deforms when being heated due to a shape memory effect, and the housing is driven by the shape memory effect to move away from the foot cushion member such that a distance between the housing and the supporting surface is increased.

Abstract: A cane with grasping fingers. The cane includes a hollow shaft having a first end and a second end, a grasping mechanism within the first end of the shaft, and a release mechanism adjacent to the second end of the shaft. The release mechanism includes a handle, a trigger within the handle, and a release button. Pressing the release button extends the trigger beyond the handle and extends the grasping fingers beyond the first end of the shaft so that the grasping fingers are separated by a first distance. Squeezing the handle retracts the grasping fingers and reduces the distance between the grasping fingers to a second distance less than the first distance. Squeezing the handle so that the grasping fingers are fully retracted into the first end of the shaft results in the trigger and the grasping mechanism being locked into place until the release button is pressed again.

Abstract: A convertible bicycle seat has a saddle, a saddle stem with an upper end and a lower end, the saddle being connected at the upper end of the saddle stem. A plurality of legs are attached at the lower end of the saddle stem and are pivotable between a first position in which the legs are located and aligned with the saddle stem, to a second position in which the legs extend outward from the saddle stem to support the saddle as a separate and independent stool-like seat.

Abstract: A wearable assistive device or system utilizing touch as a sensory modality to assist the ambulation of the visually impaired. The wearable assistive device or system is worn on a user's leg, and includes a pair of robotic arms that grip the ankles upon the detection of an object by an ultrasonic sensor within a predetermined distance. The device is also GPS-enabled to assist the navigation of a user from one place to another. The wearable assistive device is controlled by a computing device that is worn on the same foot or other foot of the user.

Abstract: A mobility assistance device that employs a movable handle assembly and an extension support, both of which are movable between retracted and extended positions. The handle assembly is positioned when extended above a seating surface and provides leverage for a user to use his/her hands to assist in rising. The extendable support extends from a guide element along the floor beyond the center of gravity of the device and user to prevent tipping and to provide stability. When the extendable support and handle are disposed in the retracted position, the device is used like a typical cane, walker or rollator.

Abstract: The present invention provides crutch decorations that when applied to a crutch form a substantially flat surface between two opposing crutch columns. The flat surface is optimally used for placing printed advertising, designs, pictures, and the like, on the crutch.

Abstract: A hiking staff having one or more hollow interiors shaped to support a user's body weight when hiking. Survival gear, such as first aid supplies, a tent, and/or provisions for defense or food gathering needs, can be stored within the hollow interiors of the hiking staff. End caps enclosing the open ends of the hiking staff can be selectively removed to access the survival gear. A knife can be coupled with an end of the hiking staff for storage and/or use of the hiking staff as a spear.

Abstract: An assisted walking device assists a visually impaired person by providing audible directions to guide a user to a particular destination while also notifying the user of obstacles. The device includes an elongated shaft and a processor mounted in the shaft. A global positioning system (“GPS”) is electrically coupled to the processor wherein the GPS is configured to provide orientation and directional data to the processor. A database has a mapped terrain and is operationally coupled to the GPS wherein the database compares the mapped terrain to the data provided by the GPS. An input actuator is electrically coupled to the processor and the GPS and is actuated to selectively choose a destination point. A speaker is electrically coupled to the processor, the GPS, and the database wherein the speaker is configured to transmit as voice messages the data from the GPS and the corresponding data from the database.

Abstract: The present invention is a quad-wheeled and quad-legged cane. The cane typically includes one or more wheels, one or more rigid supporting structures, and one or more handles. The wheels of the cane are preferably retractable. The rigid support structures preferably overhang the wheels and generally provides fail-safe braking. The handles may be adjustable.

Abstract: A chair-convertible walking stick includes a stick shank, a collar sleeve movable between distal and proximate positions on the stick shank, a carrier slidable between upper and lower positions on the stick shank, and a seat unit. The seat unit includes a middle portion pivotally connected to the collar sleeve, and left and right wing portions hinged to the middle portion. When the collar sleeve is displaced from the distal position to the proximate position, the seat unit is convertible from a use state, where middle portion is coplanar with the left and right wing portions, to a collapsed state, where the middle portion is at an included angle with each of the left and right wing portions.

Abstract: A walking stick chair includes a main stick, a seat unit, a support unit, and a linking unit. The seat unit includes a sleeve member connected in a fixed position to the main stick, and a seat member connected pivotally to the sleeve member and operable between a folded state and an unfolded state. The support unit is connected pivotally to the main stick. The linking unit is connected pivotally to the support unit and the seat member. When the seat member is at the unfolded state, the walking stick chair serves as a chair, and when the seat member is operated from the unfolded state to the folded state, the walking stick chair is converted from the chair to a walking stick.

Abstract: A walking stick includes an upper section and a lower section connected by a boss assembly. The upper section comprises three elongate arm members each pivotal about a hinge located on an upper surface of the boss assembly between a first position in which it is generally upstanding and lies generally parallel with the other two elongate members and a second position in which it is inclined at an angle to the other two elongate arm members. The lower section comprises three elongate leg members each having an upper end positioned for pivotal movement relative to the boss assembly between a first position in which it is generally upstanding and lies generally parallel to the other two elongate leg members and a second position in which it is inclined at an angle to the other two elongate leg members.

Abstract: A mobility assistance apparatus includes first and second frames positioned on left and right sides of a user; a hinge arm mechanism coupled to the first and second frames; and a harness or a walking seat coupled to the frames to transfer at least a portion of the user's body weight from the legs and to transfer weight through the user's hip or pelvis to the first and second frame enabling the user to stand or walk for an extended period without requiring the user's arms to hold the frame.

Abstract: The present invention is a single leg sitting device which has a collapsible leg which fits inside the seat for compact transportation or to turning the seat into a walking stick.

Abstract: An improved cane with an internal grasping apparatus including an actuator on the cane handle and a plurality of clamps that extends from the foot or base of the cane. A cord system within the casing of the cane connects the actuator to the clamps so that when the actuator is in use, the clamps close or open to either grasp or release objects, depending on the amount of pressure applied to the actuator. Applying pressure to the actuator extends a plurality of clamps from the distal end of the cane that can be used to assist with grasping of objects. Releasing pressure to the actuator on the cane handle will retract the clamps back into the distal end of the cane to where the clamps are hidden.

Abstract: A survival staff kit including: a knife, where the knife includes a handle, a guard and serrated blade; a first chamber, where the first chamber includes a spyglass and a first compartment; a second chamber, where the second chamber includes compartments for water, fire starter tools, hooks, fishing cord and a flash light; and an end cap, where the knife, first chamber, second chamber and end cap assembly to create a staff. The top of the handle may include a compass. In the preferred embodiment, the knife is inserted into the first chamber and the handle functions as a handle for the knife and is a handle grip for the survival kit once in an assembled position.

Abstract: The invention combines the functionality of a hiking pole and a camera tripod. A hiking pole is augmented with an attachment for a camera and with a plurality of flexible tethers, each of which have one end that attaches near the top of the pole and the other end which can be stood on or otherwise immobilized relative to the ground. The combination of the tethers and the rigid pole will restrict all freedom of motion of the camera and allow stabilized, long exposure pictures to be taken. When not taking pictures, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tethers can be retracted and stored, leaving the user with a functioning hiking pole.

Abstract: An autographable crutch (300) includes a crutch (322) and a marking receiving coating 302. The marking receiving coating at least partially covers the crutch and accepts a marking (330) from a marking instrument (331).

Abstract: A device includes a crutch (400) comprising at least two vertical crutch columns (404,405). A substantially flat panel (422) is attached to the crutch interior to the at least two vertical crutch columns. In one embodiment, the substantially flat panel comprising a marking receiving panel to accept a marking (530) from a marking instrument (531). The substantially flat panel can be at least partially coated with a marking receiving coating (302) in one embodiment.

Abstract: The invention combines the functionality of a hiking pole and a camera tripod. A hiking pole is augmented with an attachment for a camera and with a plurality of flexible tethers, each of which have one end that attaches near the top of the pole and the other end which can be stood on or otherwise immobilized relative to the ground. The combination of the tethers and the rigid pole will restrict all freedom of motion of the camera and allow stabilized, long exposure pictures to be taken. When not taking pictures, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tethers can be retracted and stored, leaving the user with a functioning hiking pole.

Abstract: A telescoping cane with folding platform has a telescoping mechanism to adjust the height. A bottom portion of the cane is pivotally attached to a platform. The platform pivots upward into a parallel position with a shaft of the cane for a stowed position. In a deployed position, the platform is pivoted to a perpendicular position. The wider base of the platform assists a user in balancing his stance when using the cane. The pivoting assembly is further provided with a locking mechanism to maintain the platform in a deployed or stowed position. The cane is also equipped with a platen to assist with placement of user's foot upon the platform, which aids in stabilizing the cane when attempting to rise from a seated position.

Abstract: A convertible walker/rider includes a frame and a seat assembly, and is convertible between a riding mode and a walking mode. The frame includes a pair of substantially horizontally oriented base legs and an upright portion coupled to and extending generally upwardly from the base legs. The seat assembly is pivotally mounted to the upright portion and includes a seat platform, a pair of seat support legs generally extending from the seat platform, and a seat handle extending between the seat support legs. The seat assembly is positionable in either a seated position for operating the convertible walker in a riding mode or in an upright position for operating the convertible walker in a walking mode. The base legs can be selectively adjustable to widen or lessen the distance therebetween.

Abstract: A walking device, such as a walking stick, cane, or walker, includes an integral misting fan. The misting fan is coupled to a water reservoir formed into the walking stick. In addition, the misting fan comprises a battery operated an including two or more blades, and a pump assembly coupled to the water reservoir through a tube. The pump is adapted to draw water from the water reservoir through a tube into an atomizer, which is adapted to create a spray of mist through the fan blades. The misting fan can be formed into the handle of the walking device.

Abstract: An improved cane, crutch or walking stick tip that allows a user to retrieve objects from a walking surface in a sitting or a standing position without need of bending over. The device employs a single moveable element contained within the tip and can be actuated by the users hand or foot. This improved tip may be furnished on new canes, crutches and walking sticks or as a replacement tip on existing canes, crutches or walking sticks regardless of their design or material of construction. The tip is similar in appearance to existing tips presently in use and does not create a tripping hazard.

Abstract: My invention shows how a walking cane can be made that would operate as a radio receiver to give a blind person instructions or warnings as they passed by obstacles in the city or town they lived in.

Abstract: A walker apparatus includes a framework having upstanding front and rear support members connecting upper and lower sections. The upper section is mounted atop upper ends of respective front and rear support members. The upper section includes a pair of side members each having opposed front and rear ends coupled to respective front and rear support member upper ends. The upper section includes a rear support member extending between rear ends of respective upper section side members. The upper section includes a front support member pivotally coupled at a proximal end to a front support member upper end and releasably coupled to another so as to be movable between open and closed configurations. The apparatus includes a lower section having first and second supports bars each having an outwardly arcuate configuration and positioned so as not to create a trip hazard when the front support member is open.

Abstract: Described is a shopping cart crutch assembly that is formed to allow a user to attach the shopping cart assembly with a variety of shopping carts. In doing so, a shopping cart handle brace can be positioned over a shopping cart handle. Rising from the shopping cart handle is the extension member which is used to elevate the body support member. A user can then position his/her armpits over the body support member and receive ambulatory support while being able to push and utilize the shopping cart.

Abstract: A mechanism and method for securing a removable tray to a walker frame. The mechanism comprises a removable spacer wherein the spacer is adapted to frictionally engage the walker tray with a walker handle. The method of attaching the removable walker tray to the walker frame comprises securing a first spacer to a first cutout in the walker tray; securing a second spacer to a second cutout in the walker tray; inserting a first walker handle into the first cutout in the tray; inserting a second walker handle into the second cutout in the tray; and where upon inserting the walker handles into the cutouts, the tray is positioned on top of the walker frame and the tray secured in a substantially level position on the walker frame by frictional engagement of the spacer between the tray and the walker handles.

Abstract: A limb-support assembly for use with an assistive device includes a weight-bearing member having a first edge. The weight-bearing member includes a planar receiving surface configured for receiving a user's lower limb. A mounting assembly is configured for removably coupling the weight-bearing member to an assistive device. The mounting assembly includes a first mounting brace extending outwardly from the first edge of the weight-bearing member and above the receiving surface. A mounting aperture is defined in the weight-bearing member between the first mounting brace and the receiving surface. The mounting aperture is configured for receiving a portion of the assistive device. When a portion of the assistive device is received by the mounting aperture, and when weight is placed on the receiving surface, the first mounting brace is configured to press against an opposing side of the assistive device from the receiving surface.

Abstract: An adjustable-length walking aid provides a hollow tubular body having a top and a bottom. A spring-biased gripper arm at the bottom is connected to a tension gripper actuator filament that is spooled around a flywheel spool. A lamp housed in the base of the body is connected to a power supply in the handle by a conductive filament that is also spooled around the flywheel. The tension on the gripper actuator and conductive filaments is maintained by the flywheel regardless of the length to which the cane is adjusted.

Abstract: An electronic travel aid (ETA) for visually impaired and blind people (subject) with minimum physical interface adapted to perform real-time navigation without digital camera and complex hardware. Importantly, the electronic travel aid relates to real-time situations with speech messages stored in flash memory for aiding the visually impaired or blind people. The electronic travel aid is provided involving wireless or wired technology and is directed to serve as a low-cost, robust, reliable, and user-friendly solution for blind or visually impaired navigation.

Abstract: An improved cane with an internal grasping apparatus including an actuator on the cane handle and a plurality of clamps that extends from the foot or base of the cane. A cord system within the casing of the cane connects the actuator to the clamps so that when the actuator is in use, the clamps close or open to either grasp or release objects, depending on the amount of pressure applied to the actuator. Applying pressure to the actuator extends a plurality of clamps from the distal end of the cane that can be used to assist with grasping of objects. Releasing pressure to the actuator on the cane handle will retract the clamps back into the distal end of the cane to where the clamps are hidden.

Abstract: A wheeled walker with a removable utility tray has a frame, front and rear wheels, a pivotable seat, height-adjustable handlebars, push handles, a back rest, brake handles and cables to arrest the walker, a pair of crossbars supporting the frame and a detachable utility tray with a lip to engage the top crossbar, front and side walls, a pair of tray supports extending from the bottom of the tray base down and to the rear and terminating at the bottom crossbar, the lower ends of the supports having a locking groove for engaging the bottom crossbar and a pair of horizontal braces between the tray supports.

Abstract: A multifunctional walking staff, to aid in balance and support on an ice surface, and to function as a survival or a rescue tool in the event of breaking through thin ice into water. Secure traction on ice is attained by a metal tip, which may be further pressed onto the ice by a foot peg, serving also as a grapple hook. Secured onto the ice, the staff affords reliable anchorage to an attached rescue line, which is ordinarily stowed in multiple folds therewithin. An adjustable loop is formed integrally with, or adjoined to the rescue line, which loop may be maneuvred by the staff to facilitate engagement with the rescuee. A buoyant projectile linked to the loop is releasably disposed within a top section of the staff, and is of such weight that it and the loop may jointly be cast the full extent of the rescue line.