Walker Type Patents (Class 135/67)
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Patent number: 6394117Abstract: A plug for a walker. The plug comprises a plate with an aperture therein. A plurality of pins extend from the plate, the pins being positioned to engage in correspondingly positioned apertures in a walker body. The invention includes arms secured to a walker body by use of such a plug.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1999Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Bodyworks Properties LimitedInventor: Robert Farrer Gilmour
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Patent number: 6371142Abstract: A seated walker has a frame that includes pair of inverted U-shaped side members and a cross bar. A seat is pivotally affixed to the frame and is movable between an upper position where the seat is generally vertical and out of the way of the user and a lower position where the seat is generally horizontal and can be utilized by the user to sit down. An elastic cord is affixed to the frame of the seated walker and encircles the seat so that the seat is biased toward its upper position. By use of the elastic cord, a user can disable the biasing function by hand to remove the elastic cord from encircling the seat and, engage the biasing. Thus, the user can use or not use the biasing function as desired. As a further feature, the seat can be pivotally affixed to a front cross bar and is supported by a pair of generally L-shaped members extending outwardly from the underside of the seat and which rest upon pair of side braces that are positioned lower on the frame than the front cross bar.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1999Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: Tubular Fabricators IndustryInventor: Joseph Battiston
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Patent number: 6356210Abstract: A portable safety mechanism housed in a cane, a walking stick or a belt-carried housing. In each of such embodiments, the portable safety mechanism includes a processor, a transmitter, a receiver, and an outside image sensor or scanner, a warning device such as an audible warning device or warning light. The scanner may, for example, sense the shape of a traffic signal or the color of a traffic signal. The portable safety mechanism may further be housed in a wheelchair or walker. The portable safety mechanism may employ computer telephony technology.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 1999Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Christ G. Ellis
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Patent number: 6343802Abstract: A support assistive device for a user having a frame assembly, a vertical pelvis support element connected to the frame assembly which may primarily support the user in the ischial tuberosity region, and a horizontal pelvis support element which may primarily support the anterior superior iliac spine region of a pelvis. It may provide such support with minimal or no hand or arm support. By supporting on the anterior superior iliac spine on either side, a moment can be created to assist in turning even without the use of hands by simply turning the direction of the pelvis. The created moment of the present invention is more natural to the user in turning the pelvis and as a result the device. Additionally, a fluidic braking assembly for any rotatable elements is provided, which can be advantaged to assist a user in supplying an increase of force to actuate the braking action.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1998Date of Patent: February 5, 2002Assignee: Ultimate Support Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan P. Workman, Kenneth W. House, Donald H. Eason
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Patent number: 6338355Abstract: A safety brake type rollator which is normally in detained state, but it starts to advance when releasing grips installed on both handle bars are gripped, is disclosed. The elaborate utilization of lever principle associated with power transmission between two ratchet wheels realizes innovative effect of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Assignee: Merits Health Products Co., Ltd.Inventor: Larry M. Cheng
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Patent number: 6338592Abstract: An article connector including an insertion seat having an insertion hole, an opening and a plurality of installation holes; an connection seat mounted with a mounting shaft to combine with the opening of the insertion seat, and having an engaging slot; and two shaft bodies, one of the shaft bodies being provided with a plurality of screw holes, and the engaging slot being engaged with a mounting hole provided at one side of the shaft bodies, thereby the two shaft bodies are formed into a structure by the insertion seat and the connection seat. The two shaft bodies require no screw or does not require a welding process to form into a connector. Thus, these parts can be dismantled and assembled rapidly, and stored in a limited storage space.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Inventor: James C Chang
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Patent number: 6338354Abstract: An orthopedic walker having a rear crossbar which is pivotally mounted to two side frames allowing for sequential movement of one side frame forward relative to the other to facilitate walking. A pair of wrist guards are positioned at the top of each frame and the frames provide a smooth transitioning of a number of handholds to aid in standing from a seated position.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Inventor: Larry Rush Alexander
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Patent number: 6338493Abstract: An apparatus that is convertible between walker and a wheelchair has one pair of wheels that are continually engaged with the ground and a second pair of wheels that are movable from a first position out of engagement or disengaged with the ground, in which the apparatus is used as a walker, to a second position into engagement with the ground, in which the apparatus is used as a wheelchair. The movable wheels are controllable by the operator through the use of handle members connected such wheels. The handle members rotate the wheels into and out of engagement with the ground along a path that is at an angle from the vertical, thereby assuring disengagement of the wheels from the ground.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2000Date of Patent: January 15, 2002Inventors: Eli Wohlgemuth, Koen De Winter
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Publication number: 20010045227Abstract: The safety support device of this invention includes a frame having a mounting section. A pair of forward legs are attached to a forward end of the mounting section and a pair of rear legs are attached to a rear end of the mounting section. Each leg has a distal end to which is attached a roller assembly that includes a roller member mounted so that with the weight of the user bearing down on the assembly the roller member is prevented from moving. In a second embodiment used to assist injured or elderly person stand erect, the legs are long and arm support members engage the arm pits of the user when the user is being supported by the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2001Publication date: November 29, 2001Inventor: Ruben Balan
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Patent number: 6318392Abstract: A supportive walker includes a front frame, a rear frame with a connection bar connected thereto and a pair of retaining frames connected to the front frame so that the connection bar extends through the two passages of the two retaining frames. A safety device has an engaging portion and an urging device which is biased between the retaining frame and the engaging portion. The engaging portion is releasably engaged with the connection bar by operating the urging device. Therefore, the front frame and the rear frame are expanded or folded securely when the urging device is released. The connection bar of the rear frame is movable in the passages of the retaining frames when the urging device is pressed.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2000Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Inventor: Scott Chen
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Patent number: 6311708Abstract: A walker having a frame which provides two front legs. Two rear legs are attached to the frame. A cross member provides support for the device which is supplemented by a link. Each of these structural members is in a pivotal relationship with the remaining members so the walker may be folded for storage. The cross member and link provide bracing for structural integrity, but are also incorporated into the folding structure. The optional seat is also in a pivotal relationship with the device. The seat prevents the walker from being folded while it is being used as a walker.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1999Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Assignee: Kaye Products, Inc.Inventor: Edward S. Howle
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Patent number: 6302126Abstract: An attachment for a walker which may be used as a seat and has a convenient storage pouch. The attachment is formed from a single sheet of fabric having a pair of pockets formed at each of the opposing ends. A first one of the pockets conforms to the shape of the top ends of opposing horizontal support members of the walkers and is adapted to fit over the support members and function as the attachment means to the walker. The seat is formed by extending the fabric across the space between the horizontal support members and sliding the first pair of pockets downwardly over the top ends of the opposing horizontal support members until the support members are firmly embedded therein. The weight of the user is distributed over the entire seam eliminating relatively small stress points. A second one of the pockets functions solely as a storage means and has a zippered closure. An integral attachment means is provided for attaching the seat/storage pouch when the walker is in use.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2000Date of Patent: October 16, 2001Inventor: Victoriano Nava
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Patent number: 6296263Abstract: An improvement to a standard three wheeled walker to render it usable for carrying objects on a folding tray mounted between the vertical supports of the walker. A panel is split into two portions, which are pivotally joined together with a piano hinge. A “U” clamp having a mounting bracket and hinge is mounted on each vertical support. The hinges are attached to the bottom edges of the two split panels to attach the folding tray across the space between the two vertical supports. The tray folds upwardly when the walker is folded.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2000Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Inventors: Theodore L. Schultz, Margaret Ann Winney
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Patent number: 6296268Abstract: An improved toy assembly is adapted to be alternatively used as a foot-to-floor ride-on vehicle, or as a walker. The convertible walker/rider toy includes a chassis which is supported on a plurality of wheels, and a body that is pivotally attached to the front end of the chassis. The body includes a contoured upper surface that functions as a seat when the toy is assembled in the rider configuration. The toy further includes an L-shaped handlebar having a rider portion and a walker portion which are joined at approximately a 90° angle. The walker portion of the handlebar is pivotally attached to the rear end of the body and is pivotally movable relative to the body. When the toy is in the rider configuration, the body overlies the chassis, the walker portion of the handlebar is received beneath the body and the rider portion of the handlebar projects upwardly through the opening in the front end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey M. Ford, Craig J. McElhaney, Lee Spielberger
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Patent number: 6283484Abstract: A brake system for a wheeled walker frame having two walker frame legs with two telescopically adjustable frame tubes, of which one frame tube supports in its upper region a handle and a brake lever and the other is provided in its lower region with a brake device for braking a wheel. A telescopically adjustable brake rod is disposed within the frame tubes, between the brake lever and the brake device, and includes two parallel rods of which one is interconnected with the brake lever and the other is interconnected with the brake device. An axial longitudinal adjustment of the frame tubes to the desired vertical position synchronously causes a corresponding alteration of the length of the brake rod. At least one device is provided for locking the frame tubes and the parallel rods.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1999Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Inventor: Sven Malmström
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Patent number: 6279591Abstract: A universal platform support assembly (10) provides for vertical and horizontal adjustment to secure the assembly to a wide array of walker (W) styles and sizes. A forearm receiving member (20) can be pivoted for comfort of the user and a push handle (24) associated therewith may be selectively positioned fore and aft, as well as rotated, for additional fit and comfort. Enlarged knobs (32) that may be conveniently grasped and manipulated secure the various adjustable components together allowing assembly and adjustment to proceed without using tools.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1999Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Invacare CorporationInventor: Shane Obitts
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Patent number: 6244285Abstract: The present invention relates to a free standing support device without a base mat, to assist a person to come to a standing position from a sitting or lying position. The device has a base frame to which are attached two and only two, vertical posts each extending about 30 inches above the floor and each having a free end and a fixed end. At least one vertical post has a free end separable from its fixed end. The vertical posts each have a gripping means affixed to the free end.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1999Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Inventor: Lawrence W. Gamache
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Patent number: 6220262Abstract: A walking stick (10) has a rod-shaped shaft portion (14), a grip portion (15) formed at one end portion of the rod-shaped shaft portion (4) and a tip portion (16) formed at the other end portion of the rod-shaped shaft portion (14), and is structured such that in case of laying down and placing the walking stick (10) on a ground or a floor (11) along a longitudinal direction, a part (17) of the grip portion (15) is apart from the predetermined surface and the tip portion (16) is brought into contact with the predetermined surface (11), and in case of pressing the grip portion (15) to the ground or the floor (11), the grip portion (15) becomes a fulcrum and the tip portion (16) is apart from the ground or the floor (11) and stands up.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Inventor: Mitsuaki Hasebe
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Patent number: 6206019Abstract: A convertible cane construction 10 including a pair of cane members 20, 20 connected to one another by a pair of collapsible arm members 30, 30′. Each collapsible arm member 30, 30′ is movable between a fully extended mode which widely separates the cane members 20 and a fully collapsed mode which joins the pair of cane members 20, 20 into a quasi-single cane configuration. Each collapsible arm member 30, 30′ includes a pair of lever arms 31, 32 pivotally connected to one another on one end and pivotally connected to one of the cane members 20, 20 on the other end.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Inventor: Michele Horvitz
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Patent number: 6170501Abstract: A device to aid elderly or disabled persons to gain a standing position from a seated one is provided that is made up of a platform and a handle that can be easily transported and placed in front of a chair or other seating device to help a person in rising from a chair or lowering oneself into a chair. The handle is made of a U-shaped tube that is pivotally attached at one end to the rear of the platform. The pivotal attachment allows the front end of the handle to be lifted to a position that can be easily reached by a seated person when the invention is placed in front of the chair. The pivoting attachment also allows the handle to be folded down to a flat position in relation to the platform which makes it easy to move and store the invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1999Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Inventors: Christine Ann Cook, Steven Jay Cook, Kay Ellen May, Donald Wayne May
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Patent number: 6167895Abstract: An adjustable mobility assistance device for providing a wall-mounted handle having a pulley assembly for extending the handle to an operable position includes a handlebar pivotally coupled to a wall and a pulley system for raising the handlebar to a usable position. In an embodiment, the handlebar is provided with a plurality of adjustable portions to permit adjustment of the width of the handlebar and the distance of extension of a gripping portion of the handlebar from the wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2001Inventor: Gary W. Burroughs
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Patent number: 6161860Abstract: A walker apparatus for disabled persons having a frame having a pair of spaced-apart wheels mounted at a front end thereof. A seat is secured to the frame rearwardly of the front end. The wheels are connected to a steering assembly having a tandem connecting linkage to cause the wheels to turn in parallel relationship. Handles are secured to the steering assembly to control the position of the wheels for guiding the apparatus during displacement thereof. A rear support wheel is secured to the frame and disposed behind the seat and substantially central between the pair of spaced apart wheels. The apparatus is motorized by the feet of the disabled person when sitting on the seat and grasping the steering handles.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Michel Corneau
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Patent number: 6163249Abstract: A device for assisting relocation of a handicapped individual, which device has a frame that is disposed between an individual and a surface underlying the individual to assist movement of the individual across the underlying surface. The frame has a first orientation in which the frame resides with the frame being used by the individual to engage the underlying surface and assist movement of the individual across the underlying surface. The device further includes an alarm system for causing a detectable signal to be produced as an incident of the frame being repositioned from the first orientation into a second orientation.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1997Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Orley O. Betcher, III
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Patent number: 6145524Abstract: A walker for assistant people ambulating, particularly on stairs climbing, is a free standing frame comprising a pair of reverse U-shaped frame members that are interconnected by braces at its sides and front, having the walker open on its rear side to allow access by the user. The horizontal parts of the U-shaped members provide handles for gripping the walker. A pair of adjustable front legs are telescopically inserted in the frame and are held in fixed position relative to the frame by a spring lorded pin mounted on the frame passes through the hole on the frame and the front leg. In one embodiment, hand actuated controls mounted on the handles allow the user to pull the pin out of the holes whereby the front legs extend by falling under the force of gravity to the desired length where the pin re-locking the front legs.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 1998Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Inventors: Tianfu Li, David Keith Blair
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Patent number: 6135131Abstract: A device for use in cooperation with an apparatus for lifting a person from the seated position to a standing position wherein the apparatus has at least one hollow handle extending downwardly when the person is in a standing position. The device includes an extension portion for at least partial insertion within the hollow handle and an engaging mechanism for frictionally engaging an inner surface of the hollow handle and a handle portion extending outwardly from the extension portion for gripping by the person when in a standing position.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1998Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: EZ Way Inc.Inventor: Fred Downing
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Patent number: 6123089Abstract: A adjustable knee support device for use with a walker employs a support platform, at least one positioning assembly, and a bracing assembly. The positioning assembly includes at least one connector construction and at least one bolstering construction. The connector construction and bolstering constructions are adjustable, allowing the height of the support platform to be changed. The support platform may be alternately used to provide left leg support and right leg support, as needed. The bracing assembly is pivotally attached to the support platform and automatically adjusts to ensure that the device is maintained securely in any chosen orientation. The device may be attached and removed without tools or modification to an existing walker.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1999Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Inventor: Richard I. Fish
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Patent number: 6099002Abstract: A foldable walking-assistant device with which the handle's height can be properly adjusted according to the user's height. The device itself can be used as a chair. Moreover, the device can be folded and unfolded easily by the one-touch manner. A left and right leg body each consist essentially of the horizontal leg whose longitudinal length can be adjustable, the handle pipe which is vertically placed on the horizontal leg and is adjustable as to the height of the device, and the rear pipe which is provided at the handle pipe. The leg body possesses the folding mechanism combined with the associated action of the cross bar. The hand brake is installed at the handle pipe.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1999Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignee: Uchie Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshifumi Uchiyama
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Patent number: 6082384Abstract: A hand support for a walker frame with two rear frame bars, having a vertical bar, the upper end thereof being located lower than the upper side of the walker frame; a support bar with two ends that are hingedly connected to one of the rear frame bars and to the upper end of the vertical bar; and a stabilizing bar, mounted below the support bar parallel thereto, with two ends that are hingedly connected to one of the rear frame bars and to the upper end of the vertical bar. The support bar and the stabilizing bar are horizontally oriented, with the vertical bar resting on the ground, so as to aid a user to get up from a sitting position, or tilted upwards, with the vertical bar close to the rear frame bar of the walker frame to allow the user to walk unhindered using the walker frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Inventor: Yu Wen Cheng
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Patent number: 6070603Abstract: An improvement to a standard three-wheeled walker to render it usable by persons having the use of only one arm for support, moving, and braking the walker is provided. The braking system for use on two of the three wheels includes a crossbar having a brake handle mounted thereon and a section of brake wire having one end connected to the brake handle. The other end of the brake wire is connected to a bifurcated "Y" brake wire connector, the ends of which are adapted to apply pressure to the tires of the respective wheels while the user still maintains control of the walker.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 1998Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Inventor: Janice A. Politz
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Patent number: 6055997Abstract: A step-over cane assembly for facilitating ambulatory movement of users afflicted with certain conditions, such as Parkinson's disease, is disclosed herein. The cane assembly includes an elongate cane member with a tip end and a handle end, the tip end being disposed to contact a walking surface and the handle end providing a grip area to a user. A step-over member is coupled to a lower portion of the elongate cane member proximate the tip end, the step-over member inducing the user to take walking steps when deployed transverse to the elongate member. The step-over member may be rotatably coupled to the elongate cane member, thereby allowing the step-over member to be deployed in an extended position transverse to the elongate member and in a retracted position substantially parallel to the elongate member. When deployed in the extended position, the step-over member serves as a walking obstacle to Parkinson's users of the cane.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1997Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventors: Lisa Greenstadt, Eugene Greenstadt
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Patent number: 6056673Abstract: Disclosed is walking aid which provides mobility to an injured, elderly or physically challenged persons which leaves the hands free to hold, reach for or carry items. The walking aid of the present invention allows the user to stand upright and operates with minimal usage of the user's legs and also provides a stable surface on which a user may rest. Optionally, the walking aid of the present invention may be equipped with accessory items such as aids to reach articles which have fallen on the floor, and is readily collapsible for transportation and storage.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: May 2, 2000Inventor: Marco T. Arrecis
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Patent number: 6053189Abstract: A new Mobile Leg Support Device for supporting one leg of a user bent at the knee while allowing the user to stand on the other leg and move the device about. The inventive device includes a wheeled base, a pair of spaced uprights extending upward from the wheeled base, a leg support member extending between the spaced uprights for supporting one leg of a user bent at the knee, and a handle extending between the spaced uprights for supporting the upper body of the user and enabling the user to steer the device. In a preferred embodiment, the leg support member and the handle are each independently height adjustable for accommodating users of varying height.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 1997Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Inventors: Lisa M. Longenecker, Nancy J. Sunderland
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Patent number: 6032765Abstract: A brake control device is mounted on a handle of a walking frame used by a lame or elderly person as an aid in walking. The device includes a seat fastened at one end thereof with the handle, and a control handlebar fastened at one end thereof with the seat. The seat is provided with a control arm and a stop member. The control arm is fastened with the control handlebar and is connected with one end of a brake cable. The control arm is actuated by the control handlebar to swivel so as to pull the brake cable to bring about the braking action which can be sustained without having to keep holding the control handlebar. The control handlebar is made stationary temporarily by a rolling rod which is forced into a retaining recess of the stop member for sustaining the braking action.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1999Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Assignee: Larmine Manufacturing Corp.Inventor: Yang Hsi-Chia
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Patent number: 6014981Abstract: The present invention is directed to a walker. The walker includes a front frame having opposing lateral ends and which is formed substantially from a polymer. First and second side frames are connected to the front frame at the lateral ends thereof, respectively. Each side frame is formed substantially from a polymer and has fore and aft generally vertical leg portions. A first handle is positioned at an upper region of each side frame. The side frames can be pivotally mounted to the front frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1997Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Inventor: Karl J. Douglass
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Patent number: 6011481Abstract: The present invention is an improvement over existing walking canes to be used by people with physical impairments that require them to have additional support while walking. The present invention provides a means by which an imbalance in the weight distribution among the multiple legs of the cane is sensed and transmitted to the user. The walking cane with sensors comprises a handle, a vertical shaft and multiple legs or feet. Each of the legs is equipped with electronic stress or load sensors which are coupled to an electronic processing module. The processing module evaluates the input from the cane legs and activates a warning to the user in the event that the load sensors on the legs detect a load distribution indicative of an approaching unstable situation. The user can then stop and probe with the cane until a stable position is found.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1998Date of Patent: January 4, 2000Inventors: Arch Luther, Abbas M. Husain
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Patent number: 6003532Abstract: A wheeled triple-leg walker includes an upright tube, two F-shaped armrest frames respectively turned about the upright tube, a stretcher bar having a first end pivoted to one armrest frame and a second end adjustably connected to the other armrest frame to maintain the contained angle defined between the armrest frames, three wheel assemblies respectively mounted on the armrest frames and the upright tube at a bottom side for supporting and moving the wheeled triple-leg walker on the ground, and two armrest pads respectively mounted on the armrest frames at a top side for supporting the user's forearms when the user moves the wheeled triple-leg walker and walks.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1998Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Inventor: Ching-Tien Pi
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Patent number: 5992434Abstract: An enlarged and weighted tip for replacing a multi-pod tip of a cane and for receiving a lower end of the cane and for allowing the cane to stand by itself. The tip includes a body portion that is shaped like a frustrum of substantially a pyramid. The body portion has a cavity therein that is disk-shaped and is disposed axially between the bore in the top surface of the body portion and the base of the body portion, parallel thereto. The tip further includes a plate that completely fills the cavity in the body portion and provides structural integrity, prevents rupturing of the base of the body portion caused by weight bearing on the cane tending to push it downwardly, and which adds sufficient weight to lower the center of gravity enabling the cane to stand by itself.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Inventors: Leonard A. Berlin, Arthur B. Greene
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Patent number: 5983911Abstract: A device resting on a floor surface for enhancing the self-mobility of a person comprises a base structure comprised of a plurality of floor rail stabilizers and a base platform. The plurality of floor rail stabilizers include parallel sides. The base platform is comprised of a base frame and a base plate fixably attached to the base frame with the base frame having parallel side surfaces and being fixably attached in flush surface-to-surface relation to the plurality of floor rail stabilizers for strength and stability. The base platform is located and positioned between the plurality of floor rail stabilizers for holding the device to the floor surface. A plurality of upright side stands are sized and positioned on the floor rail stabilizers for sustaining and transferring a lateral force applied by the person. Each upright side stand is comprised of a plurality of vertical rail members and a plurality of angled rod members.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventor: Richard B. Steele
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Patent number: 5979476Abstract: A folding walker includes a pair of side frames each of which includes front and rear legs spaced from each other and held together by upper and lower connecting members. At least one lateral cross bar connects the front legs of the side frames, and the connections between the cross bar and the side frames is pivotable to permit the side frames to be pivoted from open positions in which the side frames are substantially perpendicular to the lateral brace and collapsed positions in which the side frames are substantially parallel to the cross bar. Latches hold the side frames in the open positions or in an intermediate position, between the open and collapsed positions, in which the side frames are at an acute angle to the cross bar so that the side frames and the cross bar form a generally triangular configuration to facilitate use of the walker on stairs.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1998Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Inventor: Charles J. Cranny
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Patent number: 5957146Abstract: A portable banister, for use by a person in climbing or descending a staircase having a plurality of steps which are separated by risers, comprising a foot portion, a handgrip portion, and mast members extending between the foot portion and handgrip portion. The foot portion is stepped to match the contours of the staircase. In particular, the foot portion includes a pair of horizontal slabs which rest against sequential steps, and a vertical member which extends between the horizontal slabs and rests against the riser therebetween. The horizontal slabs extend parallel to each other. The distance between the horizontal slabs is adjustable to match the staircase. The mast members each extend between one of the horizontal slabs and the handgrip portion, and are each adjustable in length to vary the height and angle of the handgrip portion for the comfort and safety of the user.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Francis Eugene Corey
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Patent number: 5954075Abstract: The walker of the invention comprises a chassis including a bottom plate. A sole is engaged or engageable with the underside in use of the bottom plate and a liner is placed within the chassis. The movement characteristics of the walker being determined by the shape or configuration of the sole, or both the shape and configuration.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1997Date of Patent: September 21, 1999Assignee: Bodyworks Healthcare LimitedInventor: Robert Farrer Gilmour
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Patent number: 5904168Abstract: A walker having an expandable seat adapted to accommodate users of varying body sizes to enter the walker and get in and out of the seat. The walker comprises a front cross bar having two tubular ends, and two side frames rotatably connected to each of the tubular ends of the front cross bar, so that the side frames can be rotated inward and outward with respect to the front cross bar. A telescopic upper crossbar is mounted between the side frames at the upper horizontal tubing for limiting the angular movement of the side frames when a desired position has been selected. The expandable seat includes a tubular rear end, to which a pair of seat support rods are slidably mounted. A bracket is rotatably attached to each of the sliding rods for engaging the side braces of the side frame when the seat is folded down in the horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1998Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Inventor: Moris Alulyan
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Patent number: 5882067Abstract: A foldable seat for a foldable invalid walker where the seat folds flush against the side of the walker when the user is not using the seat.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 1997Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: Sunrise Medical HHG Inc.Inventors: Francisco J. Carbajal, Eric Carr
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Patent number: 5862825Abstract: A collapsible walker that includes a front frame, a pair of side frames, and a pair of levers. The front frame has a pair of skewed surfaces. The pair of side frames are hingedly attached to the front frame and are parallel thereto when the collapsible walker is in the closed position and are perpendicular thereto when the collapsible walker is in the open position. The pair of side frames have notches therein with skewed surfaces, with the pair of skewed surfaces of the front frame being vertically movable in the notches. The skewed surfaces of the pair of side frames move relative to the pair of skewed surfaces of the front frame as the collapsible walker is achieving the open position, until such time as it achieves the open position in which the pair of skewed surfaces of the front frame and drop down in the notches and mate with, and abut against, the skewed surfaces therein so as to prevent relative rotation therebetween and further rotation of the pair of side frames in both directions.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1997Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Assignee: Graham-Field, Inc.Inventor: Fred Leonard
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Patent number: 5853015Abstract: This invention describes lifting devices that enable a partially ambulatory person to rise from a sitting position without the assistance of another person. The lifting device preferably comprises a base support in a substantially U-shaped frame having a user receptive front and a spaced apart rear formed by two front legs separated by front support braces and each front leg being connected to a rear leg at a cross support, thereby forming sides of the device. Hand rails are slidably mounted with each pair of front and rear legs.An linear actuator mechanism is connected through the frame to the underside of each hand rail and provides synchronous telescoping action to the hand rails. The linear actuator mechanism is comprised of a gear motor, and gear reducer mounted on an actuator support, a ball nut fixedly mounted within the cross support, and a ball screw fixed at one end to the gear reducer, engaging the ball nut and ultimately attached to the hand rail.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 1994Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Inventor: Allan B. Evans
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Patent number: 5853219Abstract: The disclosure relates to a safety walker assembly to assist handicapped people in walking. The safety walker assembly comprises a pair of side frames joined together by a horizontal bar arrangement to form a lightweight three sided structure. A handle bar grip member is arranged on each side frame, and an actuatable "emergency" alert device is attached to the structure, arranged to be switchable on and off by a user of the safety walker assembly. The alert device is arranged to activate upon tipping of the walker from its normal vertical.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 1997Date of Patent: December 29, 1998Inventor: Kathleen M. Santuccio
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Patent number: 5839740Abstract: A cart for injured persons, designed as an alternative to crutches for individuals with an injured leg. A padded leg support surface provides a comfortable location upon which the injured leg (or cast) may be rested. The cart is propelled by the individual using the uninjured leg. The front of the cart includes two wheels mounted on forks each having a handle bar that extends upwardly. A front pad is attached to the handle bars to provide a comfortable surface for the user to lean against. Hand brakes are also included for gripping opposing sides of the front wheels to brake the cart when brake levers on the handle bars are activated. The upper ends of both handle bars also include an elastomeric hand grip. The padded leg support surface is supported by a leg support assembly that is configured to be attached to either side of the cart. This allows a user to accommodate a left or a right injured leg.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1997Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Inventor: Jerral C. Seeger
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Patent number: 5819772Abstract: A walker which includes a rectangular open back frame, two handrails respectively connected to the two opposite ends of the back frame at right angles and disposed in parallel to each other, each handrail having a sliding track disposed in a sloping position, two front wheel assemblies and two rear wheel assemblies respectively coupled to the handrails at the bottom, a seat frame, and two suspension links respectively and slidably coupled to the sliding tracks to hold the seat frame between the handrails.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 1996Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Inventor: Ching-Tien Pi
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Patent number: 5803103Abstract: A walker adapted for every one of those who have widely different degrees of difficulty in walking. The walker includes a pair of leg members each having a front wheel pivotable about a vertical shaft, a rear wheel and a pair of legs, and a support member detachably mounted on the leg members and having a pair of armrests and a support rod provided at one end thereof and extending in a width direction. The support member can be raised and lowered relative to the leg members and can be turned 180.degree. so that its front and back are reversed relative to the leg members. It is thus possible to mount the support member so that the support rod is in front or back of the user according to the degree of difficulty in walking, posture and build of the user. It is also possible to adjust the height of the armrests by raising and lowering the support member relative to the leg members, as well as the distance between the armrests.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignees: Handi Network International Co., Ltd., Remotex CorporationInventor: Mitsuru Haruyama
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Patent number: 5800318Abstract: A combination athletic trainer/walker for exercising a user's lower body, while giving the user independence of an assistant while walking. The wheeled legs, and attached frame is comprised of heavily padded sides. The frame work is vertically adjustable such that a front bar is positioned at the height of the user's rib cage. The front bar detaches, and is lowered to allow a user to enter and is then attached with a crotch strap between user's legs and reattached. The padded seat is positioned, initially at a standing height and progressively lowered to slightly below a 90 degree angle of a user's knee flexion, when finishing use of the machine. The telescopic horizontal legs are adjusted to an appropriate length to provide muscle strengthening resistance. Adjustment of the vertical legs controls the height of the frame work. Wheels are provided for movement of the frame over a floor, and the two front wheels are of swivel type allowing the user to turn in any direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1995Date of Patent: September 1, 1998Inventor: Gerald A. Coviello