Abstract: A crutch for assisting a user to walk includes a leg platform configured to support a portion of a leg of the user, and a ground contact having a weight supporting medial contact region that is disposed higher than a weight supporting lateral contact region. An optional strap on the leg platform can be used to maintain the leg in a forward position. An optional thigh saddle can be used to help prevent lateral movement of the user's upper thigh with respect to the crutch. An optional front facing handle can assist new users in learning to use the crutch.

Abstract: Stabilizer support for crutches and/or walking sticks, comprising a cylindrical body (1) with vertical axis within which there is a seat destined to receive a portion of a crutch or walking stick (S). The stabilizer support comprises more extractable feet (5) which, in a retracted position, are vertical and are inside the said body (1) while, in the extracted position, are spread apart and are external to the said body (1) thus forming a stable base of the stabilizer support. Furthermore, the stabilizer support comprises a knob (6) through which a slide (4) is made to vertically move inside the said body (1), the said feet (5) being connected with the said slide (4).

Abstract: An illuminated apparatus for assisting movement is provided that is able to illuminate surface areas upon which one walks, hikes, skis, skates, runs, reads from, signals, examines or studies. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may provide both broad and focused illumination. The device may ensure safe footing, solid purchase, and stable load bearing by providing illuminated assistance for foot, ski and skate placement, as well as the placement of singular and multi-pole fixtures used for activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, skating, running, and walking. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may be compact and lightweight.

Abstract: A safety walker includes a pair of side members, arms and spring loaded pins engaging the arms so as to allow movement of the side members between an operative position, wherein the side members are disposed in a spaced apart generally parallel relationship with each other and a generally folded position, wherein the side members are generally juxtaposed in a generally planar relationship with and in close proximity to each other. There is also a seat that is configured for movement between a stored position wherein the seat is disposed generally parallel to a rear leg of one of the pair of the side members and a second position wherein the seat is disposed generally horizontally across a space between rear legs of the pair of the side members. The safety walker is also configured for supporting various medical devices often connected to the user.

Abstract: An assistive walker for assisting a user in going on foot and for reinforcing recommended walker use technique includes a walker frame including opposed leading and trailing ends formed between opposed handled and footed ends and that together define a user-receiving area extending from the trailing end of the walker frame to the leading end of the walker frame, and the walker frame is for supporting a user in the user-receiving area and aiding ambulation thereof. The walker frame is formed with a motion sensor apparatus including a motion sensor assembly to detect user movement at the user-receiving area, and a signal device operatively coupled to the motion sensor assembly to emit the signal in response to a substantial lack of detected user movement at the user-receiving area.

Abstract: A safety strap for a cane handle portion of a cane includes a strap piece extending between a first end and a second end, a first connection arranged at the first end, and a second connection arranged at the second end, the first and second connections being connectable to the cane at opposing ends of the cane handle portion. The cane strap supports a weight of the cane when the first and second connections are connected to the cane and a user's hand is inserted between the strap and cane handle portion, so that the cane handle is maintained proximate the user's palm if the user's grip on the cane handle portion is inadvertently released. Furthermore, at least one of the first and second connections is releasable when a predetermined pulling force is exceeded, so that the cane is allowed to fall away from the user in a situation in which retaining the cane is likely to cause injury.

Abstract: A walking stick (10) having a shaft (12) having a first portion (34) and a second portion (36) received within the first portion (34) such that the second portion (36) can slide relative to the first portion (34). A first transverse handle (18) is provided at an upper end of the shaft (12) and a second handle (20) is provided pivotable between a retracted position in which the second handle (20) is generally parallel to the shaft (12) and an extended position in which the second handle (20) extends transversely to the shaft (12). A spring member (48) is provided for biasing the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) to slide outwardly from the first portion (34) and a locking mechanism is provided having a trigger (38) adjacent the first handle (18).

Abstract: The walker with integrated illumination means and alarm wires an alarm and lights into at least one side of a walker. The alarm includes a panic button located adjacent onto of the handles, and upon depression shall signal an alarm via a speaker located elsewhere on said walker. The illumination means includes at least one light that is operated via an on/off switch located adjacent one of the handles. The walker with integrated illumination means and alarm may be of foldable construction or a wheeled construction. An embodiment may include illumination means located and operated on a left side of said walker, whereas another illumination means is located and operated on a right side of said walker. The illumination means and alarm are portably powered, and increase the overall weight of the walker by a negligible margin.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include canes and methods related thereto. In an embodiment, the invention includes a self-walking cane including a handle, a leg, and an articulating joint connecting the handle and the leg. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: The invention provides a rising support integrated in a walking aid and a method of connecting a sling or harness to the walking aid. The walking aid has one part which is adjustable in height in relation to the rest of the walking aid. One or more traction devices, in the form of wires, are connected to the walking aid. One end of each traction device is fastened to the sling, while the other end of the traction device is fastened to a fixed part of the walking aid. Each traction device goes via the part adjustable in height. A person placed in the sling will be raised by the traction devices when the part adjustable in height is lifted, in that the traction device is fastened to the sling and a fixed part of the walking aid and that the traction device passes the part adjustable in height.

Abstract: A combination ambulatory assistance and electrical shock defensive device includes an elongated body of adjustable length and having a hand grip at one end thereof and a foot pad at a generally opposite end thereof. A high-voltage power unit is associated with the body and actuated by a trigger mechanism. Conductive contacts extend through the foot pad and are conductively coupled to the high-voltage power unit.

Abstract: A safety device provides a retractable gripping device for use in conjunction with walking assistance devices such that a user may safely navigate on slippery surfaces. An activating mechanism is provided for user convenience. A locking mechanism moves into a locked position. To deactivate the gripping device, the user again activates a deactivating device to return the gripping device back to its retracted, deactivated position. The gripping device is configured such that it may be used in conjunction with existing walking assistance devices. The retractable gripping mechanism and locking device are preferably controlled by the user with minimal effort, with the control mechanism positioned at or near where the users hands are positioned during use.

Abstract: A method for upgrading a crutch, comprising the steps of providing a crutch having a leg, a first saddle, a first handle and a first foot; providing a second saddle different from the first saddle; removing the first saddle from the leg; and attaching the second saddle to the leg, wherein the first saddle has an upper surface that is symmetric about two planes and wherein the second saddle has an upper surface that is symmetric about only one plane, and certain crutches to use therewith.

Abstract: A removable sanitary cover for a leg extremity of a cane, walker, crutch, and the like, to reduce dirt and contaminants coming into from outdoors or dirty environment into an indoor or sanitary area. The sanitary cover includes a base and at least one sidewall that together form an enclosure having an opening generally opposite of the base. The sanitary cover also includes a closure positioned generally circumferentially about the enclosure at the at least one sidewall near the opening. In use, the sanitary cover is positioned about a distal end of the leg extremity of the cane, walker, crutch, and the like, with the closure keeping the sanitary cover in place relative to leg extremity until the sanitary cover is removed through an external force. The closure may be an elastic band, drawstring or other closure means. An optional skid-resistant material may be added or otherwise incorporated into an outer surface of the base.

Abstract: An improved walking device is disclosed wherein the walking device comprises an elongated body that is more than one foot in length, a movable arm coupled to the elongated body, a power source, and a first sensor, and wherein the first sensor is capable of detecting an orientation of the walking device and producing an electronic signal based on the orientation, and wherein the electronic signal is capable of at least partially causing a movement of the movable arm.

Abstract: A walking aid with irritant dispenser includes a shaft having upper and lower ends and defining a hollow chamber configured to contain an irritant. A compressed air cartridge is positioned in the shaft in fluid communication with the chamber. A trigger is operatively coupled to the air cartridge and configured to cause air to be released from the cartridge into the chamber when actuated. A piston situated in the chamber is movable between an upward configuration when the trigger is not actuated and a downward configuration when the trigger is actuated. The lower end of the shaft defines an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber through which the irritant is released when the piston is at the downward configuration. The chamber includes a predetermined amount of fluid pressure such that infusion of air from the compressed air cartridge increases the pressure and urges the piston toward the downward configuration.

Abstract: A standing assist device is disclosed and described. The device can include a base portion to fixedly mount to a support surface. The device can also include a first handle portion coupled to the base portion and disposed at least partially in a first vertical plane. Additionally, the device can include a second handle portion coupled to the base portion and disposed at least partially in a second vertical plane that is non-coplanar with the first vertical plane, the second handle portion having a lateral extension portion to extend toward a seating location of a user.

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 combined walking and pickup stick includes a shaft, pickup mechanism and actuator assembly. The actuator assembly controls configuration of the stick as either a walking stick or a pickup stick and also controls operation of the pickup stick. The stick has an adjustable length, but adjustment of the length does not affect operation of the pickup mechanism. The stick also folds for easy storage or transport.

Abstract: A walking aid with irritant dispenser includes a shaft having upper and lower ends and defining a hollow chamber configured to contain an irritant. A compressed air cartridge is positioned in the shaft in fluid communication with the chamber. A trigger is operatively coupled to the air cartridge and configured to cause air to be released from the cartridge into the chamber when actuated. A piston situated in the chamber is movable between an upward configuration when the trigger is not actuated and a downward configuration when the trigger is actuated. The lower end of the shaft defines an outlet in fluid communication with the chamber through which the irritant is released when the piston is at the downward configuration. The chamber includes a predetermined amount of fluid pressure such that infusion of air from the compressed air cartridge increases the pressure and urges the piston toward the downward configuration.

Abstract: One possible embodiment could be a self-defense walking stick and a process of operating same, the stick comprising of a shaft having two ends, a first end and a second end; a grip having a body with a top end and a bottom end, the top end having a top aperture connected to a top open-ended channel, the bottom end having a bottom aperture connected to a bottom open-ended channel that receives the first end of the shaft; an aerosol irritant dispensing canister comprising of a pressurized cylinder of irritant connected to activating and dispensing mechanisms, wherein a portion of the canister is retained within the top open-ended channel to expose the activating and dispensing mechanisms above the top end; and a tip connecting to the second end to interact with a surface of a ground being traversed by the operator using the stick.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for a walking aid are disclosed. The walking aid includes a walker having a frame con- figured to extend about a user of the walker to at least partially support the user and to facilitate the user progressing along a path from a current step to a next step while at least partially supported by the walker. A swivel mount is supported by the frame. A light source is connected to the swivel mount. The light source is configured to project a visual cue on a projection surface in the path between the current step and the next step to trigger the next step by the user. A controller is configured to adjust a visual property of the visual cue for use under indoor conditions and outdoor conditions.

Abstract: A method of operating a portable, foldable, and multifunctional mobility aid apparatus that assists a user in standing, sitting, and/or walking process. The apparatus has an integrated power source and is based on 4 wheels. Users can stand on it and drive it as an electric mobility device, or disable it and use it as a passive walker. The apparatus has a pair of supporting beams with adjustable width to be placed under the user armpits and support the user in standing up, sitting down, and/or moving around. The apparatus can be controlled by a control panel mounted on a pair of handles, and its functions can be controlled by the user with no need for help from another person. The apparatus can be minimized by a combination of multiple telescopic vertical minimization mechanisms and multiple folding mechanisms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tray for use with a walker. The tray includes a generally rigid tray base having an essentially rectangular shape with a front long side, a back long side, a first short side and a second short side, and wherein the tray has a length that extends to or past the essentially horizontal support member; a ridge extending along the sides of the tray, wherein the ridge has a height of at least about a ½ inch; a strap having a hook and loop fastener wherein the strap is positioned at or near the back long end; and a first hinge and a second hinge, the first and second hinges are positioned, when the tray is in use, at or near the front leg of the first and second support, respectively.

Abstract: A portable, foldable, and multifunctional mobility aid apparatus that assists a user in standing, sitting, and/or walking process. The apparatus has an integrated power source and is based on 4 wheels. Users can stand on it and drive it as an electric mobility device, or disable it and use it as a passive walker. The apparatus has a pair of supporting beams with adjustable width to be placed under the user armpits and support the user in standing up, sitting down, and/or moving around. The apparatus can be controlled by a control panel mounted on a pair of handles, and its functions can be controlled by the user with no need for help from another person. The apparatus can be minimized by a combination of multiple telescopic vertical minimization mechanisms and multiple folding mechanisms.

Abstract: A telescopic wading staff with a full size, integral fishnet is disclosed. The preferred embodiment includes a retractable, extensible pole that can be moved between a first, fully compacted (retracted) configuration for transport or storage and second, fully extended configuration for wading, especially when traversing a stream or riverbed for fly-fishing. Other embodiments include a hook extension from the lower staff end for retrieving tangled lines, lures and the like.

Abstract: A walker which can be used on stairs as well as on a level surface. The walker has legs which are comprised of hydraulic cylinders with integral pistons. Each pair of legs is part of a frame. The walker is configured such that each frame provides that fluid can flow from one leg of the frame to the other. Because the fluid is generally incompressible and the amount of fluid in each frame is fixed, movement of one piston of the frame causes the other piston of the frame to move. As such, as one leg of the frame lengthens, the other leg of the frame automatically shortens in response, and vise versa. While the walker is configured such that the legs can be shortened and lengthened, preferably the walker is also configured such that the legs can be locked in place.

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: The present invention relates to an electronic walking cane for the visually impaired which is adapted with an RFID reader to wirelessly detect RFID tags which are positioned as guides along footpaths with Braille blocks having embedded RFID tags.

Abstract: A doorstop bar includes a retractable bar, a stopping element, and an urging element. The retractable bar is retractable to adjust the length thereof. The stopping element is provided at the top of the retractable. The stopping element has a holding part, and a hooking element so as to be hung on the doorknob of a door. The doorstop bar can function as a walking stick as well.

Abstract: A multifunctional mobility device which enables or assists a person to walk without assistance from another person. The device provides a practical solution to address the various levels of mobility assistance between the minimal support of a cane and the maximum support of a four-legged walker. The multiple functions of the device are enabled by changing width and height, and include a one-legged, two-handed walker; a two-legged, two-handed walker; a hemi-walker; a stair-climbing aide; a standard or bariatric cane; and a device providing assistance from the sitting to standing position. The device may employ a jointed handle of sufficient width to accommodate both hands, and two legs connected to the handle that move inward or outward in unison, using the jointed handle and a compound, articulating mechanism connecting the two legs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a tray for use with a walker. The tray includes a generally rigid tray base having an essentially rectangular shape with a front long side, a back long side, a first short side and a second short side, and wherein the tray has a length that extends to or past the essentially horizontal support member; a ridge extending along the sides of the tray, wherein the ridge has a height of at least about a ½inch; a strap having a hook and loop fastener wherein the strap is positioned at or near the back long end; and a first hinge and a second hinge, the first and second hinges are positioned, when the tray is in use, at or near the front leg of the first and second support, respectively. The length of the tray is greater that the distance between the support member of the first support and the support member of the second support; and the width of the tray is less than the length of the support member of the first support or second support.

Abstract: A walker with a tubular frame assembly has a pair of inverted U-shaped frame members each having a pair of legs. A front cross bar is attached to the frame members to maintain them in an upright position. A pair of side braces extend between the legs of the frame members. A combined tray-seat in a drawer shape is detachably mounted on the side braces. The side members of the tray-seat extend at least to the frame and side braces. Self-adhering strips on the front crossbar and tray-seat support the tray-seat vertically when the walker is moved. The tray-seat may have a hole in its front end and a broom clip on its rear end to support a cane. The hole also acts as a drain. A perforated platform on the combined tray-seat acts as a beverage holder.

Abstract: The shower chair/walker combination incorporates the features of a walker and a shower chair into a single appliance. The appliance includes a folding walker having a pivoted seat thereon. The seat is of a split toilet seat design, having a gap at its front end. This feature allows a caregiver to have access to all parts of the patient's body to assure complete bathing. The appliance is provided with brakes and controls therefor, as is conventionally provided for walkers. All moving parts are either covered to prevent rusting or fabricated from rust-resistant materials.

Abstract: A calf, ankle, foot, or leg rest device which can be snapped onto a cane for use or snapped off when only the use of the cane is desired. The invention also encompasses the combination cane and rest device. Many people who either have a permanent leg, knee, or foot disability or are recovering from a leg, knee, or foot operation are required to keep their leg in a horizontal position while seated. The rest device is a J-shaped soft padded bracket that is rigidly attached to the cane. The height of the bracket along the cane is adjustable to provide comfort and ease of use. The cane may be positioned at a convenient horizontal distance from the user as desired. In this way, the user may rest his or her calf, ankle, or heel on the rest device. Once the rest device is engaged by the user's leg, the cane is perfectly balanced on the ground. A user can comfortably keep his leg in a horizontal position for hours.

Abstract: A walking stick (10) comprising a shaft (12) having a first portion (34) and a second portion (36) received within the first portion (34) such that the second portion (36) can slide relative to the first portion (34). A first transverse handle (18) is provided at an upper end of the shaft (12) and a second handle (20) is provided pivotable between a retracted position and an extended position. A locking mechanism having a trigger (38) secures the first portion (34) of the shaft (12) relative to the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) and actuation of the trigger (38) releases the locking mechanism such that the second portion (36) of the shaft (12) can slide outwardly from the first portion (34) of the shaft (12) under the force of a spring member (48).

Abstract: The present invention provides for a universal foot assembly having a foot pedal that may be attached to a desk or workstation that can be adjustably configured to allow for the foot pedal to vibrate, rotate, or move in a number of directions. The foot assembly comes as part of a kit and is configurable for retrofit attachment to existing desks and workstations. The foot assembly helps students having ADD or ADHD expend nervous energy. It also provides a valuable exercise mechanism for those trying to improve their physical health.

Abstract: A cane or similar walking aid incorporates a concealed electrical self-defense device having electrodes located at the tip region of the cane, and may also incorporate an annular light source to aid the user. A grip is attached to a support shaft which terminates in a tip that is fabricated of an elastomer and incorporates electrodes for the electrical deterrent. The tip electrodes can be fabricated from a conductive elastomer to avoid scratching or marring floor surfaces as well as to provide resistance to slipping. When the shaft has both tip electrodes and side electrodes positioned along the exterior surface of the support shaft, the separation of the side electrodes can be adjusted to provide preferential arcing between the side electrodes to provide a visual and audible deterrent and to avoid premature deterioration of the conductive elastomer tip electrodes.

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 personal mobility device comprising a frame having a front structure, a rear structure, and two side structures. In one embodiment, main mobility wheels are coupled to ones of the side structures, the main mobility wheels configured to contact a surface upon which the mobility device is designed to move. In this embodiment, the mobility device further includes a knee rest rotatably coupled to the front structure, the knee rest being adjustable from a first substantially-vertical position to a second rearwardly and downwardly-angled position.

Abstract: The medically equippable walker device provides numerous important features to aid a patient in ambulation and in personal medical equipment carriage. The inverted U's may provide wheels in front and feet in the rear so that a user can easily walk as desired, by tilting the walker off of the feet, and also maintain stability when stopped by allowing the feet to be firmly planted. One side of the device provides two cross rails that are ideal for the sleeves to slideably adjust for desired positioning of a ring and a basket to hold an oxygen tank securely. The second side inverted U holds like upper and lower cross rails with an adjustably positioned rail between. Any number of right angled supports are provided for the carriage of various medical equipment such as IV bags and urine bags, for example.

Abstract: An assistive walker for assisting a user in going on foot and for reinforcing recommended walker use technique includes a walker frame including opposed leading and trailing ends formed between opposed handled and footed ends and that together define a user-receiving area extending from the trailing end of the walker frame to the leading end of the walker frame, and the walker frame is for supporting a user in the user-receiving area and aiding ambulation thereof. The walker frame is formed with a motion sensor apparatus including a motion sensor assembly to detect user movement at the user-receiving area, and a signal device operatively coupled to the motion sensor assembly to emit the signal in response to a substantial lack of detected user movement at the user-receiving area.

Abstract: A novel medical ambulatory assistive device with improved visual safety. The frame set of an ambulatory assistive device is coated with photo luminescent pigments for visibility in poorly lighted surroundings. An automatically controlled LED lighting unit is mounted on the frame set to provide sufficient visual safety for walking around in poorly lighted area with the device.

Abstract: A sit down and stand up walker for assisting a user during walking and when not walking in a standing, partially standing or sitting positions with partial or full weight bearing support and with means to change from standing, partially standing to sitting positions with partial weight bearing support to a fixed elevation with full weight bearing support in any varied or repeated sequence. The partial or full weight bearing means supports a seat assembly which includes a seat and front body support with adjustable positioning to provide pelvic stability. The angle of the seat assembly relative to a flat ground surface is maintained at any elevation of the seat assembly between a standing and sitting position. The weight bearing means is responsive to the variable force supplied by the user as the user walks, stands or sits allowing the seat assembly to move up or down.

Abstract: A foot pad structure includes a retaining member and an elastic pad member. The retaining member is mounted to a receiving portion formed on a bottom of an electronic system and has a second through hole communicable with a first through hole formed in the receiving portion to thereby communicate with external environment via the first through hole. The elastic pad member internally defines an air chamber that communicates with the second through hole. The elastic pad member is retained between the retaining member and the receiving portion with a lower part thereof downward protruded beyond the receiving portion. When the elastic pad member is compressed, air in the air chamber is expelled into the external environment via the first and second through holes, allowing the elastic pad member to deform for the electronic system to stably position on a work surface without wobbling when the electronic system is operated.

Abstract: An illuminated apparatus for assisting movement is provided that is able to illuminate surface areas upon which one walks, hikes, skis, skates, runs, reads from, signals, examines or studies. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may provide both broad and focused illumination. The device may ensure safe footing, solid purchase, and stable load bearing by providing illuminated assistance for foot, ski and skate placement, as well as the placement of singular and multi-pole fixtures used for activities such as hiking, climbing, skiing, skating, running, and walking. The illuminated apparatus for assisting movement may be compact and lightweight.

Abstract: A crutch device adapted for use as a leg support featuring a crutch frame with an underarm pad, a handle, and a bottom shaft; a leg support bar pivotally attached to the shaft, the leg support bar can move between a vertical position wherein the leg support bar is positioned above the shaft inside the crutch frame and a horizontal position wherein the leg support bar is pivoted out of the crutch frame and generally perpendicularly to the shaft; and a two-legged support component pivotally attached to the leg support bar, the two-legged support component can move between a storage position and a usage position wherein the two-legged support component is pivoted such that it is generally perpendicular to the leg support bar, wherein the support component is adapted to be received in the crutch frame when the support component is in the storage position.

Abstract: A beverage holder attachment for a crutch has an annular cup holder portion and two molded C-shaped protrusions for snapping onto two side rails of a crutch. The cup holder has a vertical slot on the outside to accommodate a handle of a mug or cup. The cup holder sits in between the two rails of the crutch below the hand bar so that it does not interfere with the use of the hand bar. The cup holder is tilted slightly to avoid spillage on the user of the crutches, so that any coffee drips will spill on the outside of the crutch. The beverage holder can be snapped onto the crutch side rails to carry beverages or other objects around the home or office while on crutches. The beverage holder can be made out of plastic, rubber or any other molded material that will snap onto the crutch.

Abstract: A walking assistance apparatus and a walking assistance kit comprising a first walking assistance apparatus and a second walking assistance apparatus are disclosed. Each walking assistance apparatus comprises a shaft comprising a first end and a second end, a reversible handle portion extending from the first end, and a base extending from the second end. The shaft comprises a sidewall. The base comprises a first portion positioned proximal to the second end of the shaft, a second portion positioned distal from the second end of the shaft, and a third portion positioned intermediate the first portion and the second portion. The base comprises an arc-shaped contacting surface extending at least along the third portion. The first portion of the base comprises an end portion that is substantially aligned with the sidewall of the shaft.

Abstract: A hiking stick including a first section, which includes: a first shaft and a male joining piece attached to the shaft, and extending away from the shaft. The male joining piece has an uncut portion and a beveled portion. The bevel is formed by a plane cut at the end of the joining piece at an angle with a long the axis of the hiking stick. A second section includes a second shaft having a hollow end configured for receiving the male joining piece, such that an inner wall of the end of the second shaft has a radial cross section which is narrower than a radial cross section of the widest portion of the male joining piece. The male joining piece is configured for being inserted into the end of the second section, and for being radially compressed by the end of the second section.