Walker Type Patents (Class 135/67)
  • Patent number: 5800317
    Abstract: The invention relates to wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc. used by disabled or recuperating persons in cases of injury or disablement of the lower leg, ankle or foot. In particular the invention relates to an asymmetrical side support four wheel side support kneeling walker to be used when a person's lower leg, ankle or foot is non-functional. Balance is provided by a side extension, similar to a training wheel, which extends outward from the same side of the walker as the immobilized leg. This side extension serves as an outrigger to give the wheels of the walker an asymmetrical arrangement relative to the center axis of the vehicle. The foot and leg support rectangular platform and tubular frame are adjustable. It is preferred that the device be easily folded for storage and constructed of steel tubing for durability and strength and have a hand brake for stability and safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Roderick William Accetta
  • Patent number: 5794639
    Abstract: A controller for wheeled vehicles includes a mechanism which selectively shifts the vehicle between a mobile and a stable state. The vehicle may be a walker for easing an operator's efforts in walking and includes a selectively actuable stabilizer which fixes the position of the walker or releases it for rolling motion, thus providing a stable state or a mobile state, respectively. An actuator such as a button, pressure sensor, or lever, electrically and/or mechanically actuates a stabilizer brake mechanism to engage or release the brake and thereby allow the walker's mobility to be controlled when the actuator operates the brake to stabilize or to slow the motion of the walker. Preferably, lift applied to the vehicle itself releases the brake and allows mobility. The actuator may control an electrically actuated braking mechanism, in response to a sensor such as a strain gauge that may be adjusted to the needs of the patient; alternatively, lifters may be provided to act in response to the lifting force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Eli Einbinder
  • Patent number: 5794284
    Abstract: Apparatus for aiding persons in rising or descending between seated and standing positions provides stability to a conventional walker. In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus has a platform portion and two flexible connection members. The platform portion is substantially rigid and includes two parallel rails. At forward end portions of the rails, openings are formed for pivotable attachment therethrough of the connection members. The connection members are also pivotably attached to a forward portion of the walker, so that when a person places his or her weight on the platform portion, the connection members transmit the weight to the walker, thereby stabilizing the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Walker Sled, L.P.
    Inventors: Joseph Ray Southwell, Jr., Deborah Ann Southwell, Ruth Ann Southwell, Joseph Ray Southwell, III, Kathryn A. Sikorski, Paul Robinson, James Edward Petkovsek, Steven Bereyso
  • Patent number: 5794638
    Abstract: A patient support device, particularly a cane, includes a fifth leg that extends outwardly from a central portion of a base assembly at a region intermediate the first, second, third, and fourth legs. The fifth leg provides increased balance and stability for the user. Moreover, the base assembly includes a one-piece member constructed from a molded plastic composite material to reduce manufacturing costs. Additionally, the fifth leg is slightly recessed relative to the remaining four legs so that the patient's weight is evenly distributed to the perimeter of the support area defined by the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph B. Richey, Shane Obitts
  • Patent number: 5787913
    Abstract: A walker to assist physically impaired persons in ascending and descending stairs, has two rear legs pivotally attached to two front legs. When the walker is in use, the rear legs are locked against any pivotal movement; when stairs are to be negotiated, a locking member is released to permit relative pivotal movement of the rear legs in respect to the front legs. Thus, the front and rear legs can be placed on the staircase. After this has been done, the legs again are locked into position. The walker maintains this relative position so that the person using it may negotiate the stairs. The locking member is in the form of a toothed substantially circular gear and spring biased bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Tianfu Li
  • Patent number: 5785070
    Abstract: A dual handled walking-assist and uprisal-assist device is disclosed having the handles spaced at a predetermined distance to provide a stable structure for rising from and lowering to a seated position, in addition to serving as a walking aid. The walking- and uprisal-assist device has a structure having a first handle or first pair of handles which are useful whenever a user is in a standing position. A second handle or second pair of handles are spaced a preselected distance from the first handle or handles and at a preselected distance from the bottom of the device. An infirmed user can use the second handle or handles as a grip to push against when the user is rising from a chair. The second handle or handles are connected to one or more load-bearing shafts and the geometrical centers of the handles are positioned relative to the load-bearing shafts to provide a stable structure when used for uprisal and walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Momentum Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Randall D. Block, Darla R. Gill
  • Patent number: 5775352
    Abstract: A height adjustable cane includes an upper tubular member configured to slidably receive a second tubular member in a telescoping manner. A plurality of apertures are formed in the first tubular member which allows a button of a snap button assembly to pass therethrough and lock the tubular members against relative movement. Using the push-button assembly and the telescopic feature, the length of the cane may be adjusted. Increased stability between the tubular members is provided by a cam locking assembly including a housing receiving a cam member. The cam member includes a lever and a raised camming surface that selectively engages an outer surface of the second tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventor: Shane Obitts
  • Patent number: 5740825
    Abstract: An articulated stair walker for traversing staircases including a frame with first and second side sections. Each side section includes a vertical front leg, a vertical rear leg, a horizontal upper tie bar and a horizontal lower tie bar. Each tie bar is pivotally coupled to a front and rear leg of a side section. The side sections are coupled together by an upper and a lower cross bar rigidly affixed between the vertical front legs. Further provided is a lock pin being slidably coupled to each of the side sections and operated by a lever in an L-shaped configuration. One quadrant cam with a plurality of slots is coupled to each of the lower horizontal tie bars. Associated therewith is a lock pin movably coupled to one of the sections and positionable within a slot of the quadrant cam. By this structure, the user may lift the lock pin upwardly to allow the rear legs to be moved downward relative to the front legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: P. J. Brunengo
  • Patent number: 5732964
    Abstract: A user-propelled walking apparatus comprising a frame assembly having a pair of front wheels and a pair of rear wheels. The pair of front wheels are maintained substantially parallel to one another. An upper body and seat assembly having a seat and a movable torso support unit is mounted to the frame assembly. The movable torso support unit is allowed to rotate or pivot. The rotation or pivoting movement of the movable torso support unit is connected to a mechanical transmission for controlling steering which controls the direction of the front wheels. A gait guide system comprising a pair of independent gait guides attached to the frame assembly to limit the movement of the user's feet. Each of the gait guides includes an elongate rail pivotally connected to the frame assembly. A sleeve is slidably mounted on the elongate rail and a shoe bracket is pivotally connected to the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Magic Walker, L.C.
    Inventors: Kimberly Elizabeth Durham, Edwin Alphonso, Jinqiu Chen, Peter Gregory Davis, John T. R. Dillon, III, Dona M. Kambeyanda, Yashdeep Kumar, Thanigaivel Ashwin Raj, Michael James Rosen
  • Patent number: 5716063
    Abstract: A walking aid for physically challenged persons having front and back leg assemblies each having a front leg extending forwardly and a rear leg extending rearwardly and wheels at the lower ends of the legs, and modular hinges at the upper ends of each pair of legs. Each modular hinge has a bearing housing with bearing recesses, two bearing bodies, each bearing body being received in a respective recess. Each bearing body is interengagable with a respective front or rear leg, and, a transverse assembly bar is connected to the hinge mounting and secures the hinges in spaced apart side by side relation. Also disclosed is a brake locking system for an in-line two part brake handle, and a multi-use seat for a walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: CSIA Research Foundation
    Inventors: Brian Peter Doyle, Geoffrey Roy Fernie
  • Patent number: 5706845
    Abstract: A walker adapter used to prevent an individual's legs from crossing while using a walker to enhance ambulatory skills, the walker adapter comprising an adjustable main member having opposite ends, a posterior attachment mechanism secured at a right angle to one end of the adjustable main member, and an anterior attachment assembly secured at the opposite end thereof. A posterior clamp secured to the posterior attachment is affixed to a rear cross brace of the walker, and anterior clamps which are secured to the anterior attachment assembly are affixed to front vertical members of the walker, so that the walker adapter extends between the legs of the individual and prevents the individual's legs from crossing while walking with the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Inventors: George Beyar, Joanne Morello
  • Patent number: 5702326
    Abstract: A walking assistance device for use in indoor areas as well as in outdoor areas includes a frame with a pair of spaced apart sides and a pair of front wheels mounted to the frame in a manner that allows each of the front wheels to rotate about a vertical axis. A seat support is mounted between the spaced apart sides and at least one rear wheel attached to the frame in a manner that allows the rotation of the rear wheel or wheels about a vertical axis. A straddleable seat is mounted on the seat support on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: Versatex Inc.
    Inventor: William Renteria
  • Patent number: 5694959
    Abstract: A removable tray for a walker including a walker having a pair of spaced upper side bars. Further provided are a pair of walker coupling mechanisms adapted to be coupled to an associated side bar of the walker via clamps. A tray is slidably coupled to the walker coupling mechanism such that only lateral relative movement is allowed prior to use. Finally, at least one flexible strip is coupled at a first end thereof to the tray for coupling about at least one of the side bars of the walker to preclude lateral movement of the tray during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventors: John S. Hiller, Henry J. Hiller
  • Patent number: 5657783
    Abstract: Forearm rests are combined with a conventional invalid walker. The forearm rests are located generally spaced above the normal hand-grips. The forearm rests are advantageous for providing inward lateral support to the user's outwardly flexed forearms while the user is grasping the hand-grips and while the user is one of (i) maneuvering the walker and (ii) partly supporting and stabilizing him or herself while standing and walking. The forearm rests provide better stability and support for a user who has diminished arm strength and/or diminished motor control over his or her arm muscles. The forearm-rests can be formed in an accessory apparatus that allows attachment to a conventional walker (without forearm rests) in order to enhance the walker and give it the desirable forearm rests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventors: Mike R. Sisko, Henry J. Krouse
  • Patent number: 5649558
    Abstract: A walker is designed for use on level and inclined surfaces and for ascending and descending stairs. The walker is a free standing support having a pair of front legs and a pair of rear legs and two horizontally disposed handles. The front legs are lengthened or shortened relative to the rear legs through hand actuated controls located on each handle. The leg adjusting mechanism is a rack mounted on each front leg in releasable engagement with a frame-mounted gear which holds the leg at a fixed length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 22, 1997
    Inventor: Reginald L. Richard
  • Patent number: 5647602
    Abstract: The present invention is a hemi-wheeled walker which is particularly useful with respect to hemiplegics. Patients of this type generally have one strong side of their body and one relatively weak side. Many patients have suffered from a stroke. The hemi-wheeled walker comprises an upright segment having a lower base portion extending parallel to the side of the user, with a handle at an upper portion thereof. The upright segment is a adapted for low force movement across a support surface when the user is supported on his strong side and adapted for gripping engagement with the support surface when the patient requires additional support when he is primarily supported by his weak side. A stabilizing segment is provided to one side of the upright segment and has at least one wheel at a point of contact of the stabilizing segment with the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Monique A. Nevin
  • Patent number: 5642748
    Abstract: A pivoting tray is provided for a walker. A pair of link arms disposed on each side of the tray provide for ease of movement between a first, operative position disposed between side frame assemblies of the walker, to a second, storage position generally vertically oriented in front of the walker. The mounting brackets are adapted for use with either a single actuator or dual release style of walker. Moreover, the mounting bracket is symmetrical for use on both the right-hand and left-hand sides of the walker, thereby reducing manufacturing costs and inventory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 1, 1997
    Assignee: Invacare Corporation
    Inventor: Shane Obitts
  • Patent number: 5636651
    Abstract: A controller for wheeled vehicles includes a mechanism which selectively shifts the vehicle between a mobile and a stable state. The vehicle may be a walker for easing an operator's efforts in walking and includes a selectively actuable stabilizer which fixes the position of the walker or releases it for rolling motion, thus providing a stable state or a mobile state, respectively. An actuator such as a button, pressure sensor, or lever, electrically and/or mechanically actuates a stabilizer brake mechanism to engage or release the brake and thereby allow the walker's mobility to be controlled when the actuator operates the brake to stabilize or to slow the motion of the walker. Preferably, lift applied to the vehicle itself releases the brake and allows mobility. The actuator may control an electrically actuated braking mechanism, in response to a sensor such as a strain gauge that may be adjusted to the needs of the patient; alternatively, lifters may be provided to act in response to the lifting force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Eli Einbinder
  • Patent number: 5605169
    Abstract: The invention is a walker for an invalid. In detail, the invention includes a first U shaped member having a center portion and two parallel arm portions extending downward at an acute angle and terminating in vertically extending front supports for contacting the ground. A sleeve is movably mounted on each of said arms. A detente system is included to releasably lock each of the sleeves in an intermediate position on the arm portions. A pair of generally vertical extending rear support members have first ends for contacting the ground, providing rear support, and second ends pivotally connected to the arm portions of the first U shaped member in proximity to the center portion. A pair of first links are pivotally connected by their first ends to the rear support members intermediate the ends thereof and by their second ends to the sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Jenny Walker
    Inventor: Richard D. Light
  • Patent number: 5605345
    Abstract: Wheeled apparatus (10) is usable both as a wheeled walker and as a wheelchair. The wheeled apparatus (10) includes a foldable frame (12 or 258), first (16A) and second (16B) transversely spaced-apart wheels that are attached to the frame (12 or 258) with a negative camber angle, a third wheel (24A) that is longitudinally spaced from the first (16A) and a second (16B) wheels and that is attached to the frame (12 or 258), and a seat cushion (97) that is attached to the frame (12 or 258). When used as a wheeled walker, bi-directional seat (101, 124, 146, or 162) provides rearward facing seating (186) for resting, and when used as a wheelchair, the bi-directional seating means (101, 124, 146, or 162) provides forward facing seating (187). Centers (94) of handgrips (82A and 82B) are disposed longitudinally intermediate of the first and second wheels (16A and 16B) and the third wheel (24A) to minimize danger of the wheeled apparatus (10) tipping backwardly when used as a wheeled walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Brookefield Hunter Incorporated
    Inventors: Ronald L. Erfurth, Lloyd L. Lautzenhiser, Wendell E. Miller
  • Patent number: 5603517
    Abstract: A rollable walker for traversing stairs and substantially level surfaces, comprising a frame which includes a left and a right upright members, the left and right upright members including front legs, and an upper segment. The frame further includes a crossbar which is pivotaly connected to the left and a right upright members, the crossbar including a generally U-shaped transverse element and vertically disposed segments acting as rear legs. The crossbar is supported by supporting means. The supporting means is attached or integrally formed with the left and right upright members. A pair of rear wheels and a pair of front wheels engaged by wheel mounts, each wheel having two vertical planar surfaces. The rear wheels are connected to the rear legs, whereas the front wheels are connected to the front legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Assignee: Siudon Ltd.
    Inventor: Shmil Lorman
  • Patent number: 5603677
    Abstract: A physical rehabilitation system is provided for improving the capability of a user to support the weight of the user's body on the user's limbs. The system comprises a walker frame capable of gliding movement across a surface, upper limb holding members on the walker frame adapted for engagement by the hands or arms of the user, and counterbalance weights on the walker frame releasably attachable to the user's body for assistance in lifting the user's body to an upright position. The counterbalance weights may be adjustable according to the need of the user. The width of the walker frame, of the upper limb holding members, and the height of the upper limb holding members are all adjustable to accommodate the size of the user. While the user is provided with a range of freedom with respect to the counterbalance weights, a safety limit is provided for restraining and supporting the user in the event of a fall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Robert E. Sollo
  • Patent number: 5588456
    Abstract: In an orthotic walker, mechanism is provided to bias alternate motion of a user's legs. The mechanism may be a reciprocating bar at hip level, or at least one strap ends of which are attached to leg braces and the bight passing round a fixed frame member. A stirrup mechanism may be pivoted at an "ankle joint" and the pivotal motion may be limited to avoid toe down position. The stirrup may have a clamp for a shoe. Brake mechanism may be movable between operative and inoperative positions. In the operative position rearward rolling is disallowed while forward motion is allowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Ontario Crippled Children's Centre
    Inventor: David Hart
  • Patent number: 5579793
    Abstract: A foldable walker (10) includes a first pair of opposed legs (14,16) and a second pair of opposed legs (13,15). A housing (25) is positioned between the first pair of legs (14,16). The housing (25) carries a lock/release mechanism (35) that includes a depressible button (36). The button (36) is connected to levers (45,47) such that when the button (36) is depressed, the levers (45,47) rotate to translate rods (51,53), respectively. When the rods (51,53) are so moved, pawls (68) connected to the rods (51,53) are rotated out of their normal engagement with bosses (60) carried by the first pair of legs (14,16). The first pair of legs (14,16) may then be rotated with respect to the housing (25) so that the second pair of legs (13,15) are positioned adjacent to each other and to the housing (25).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Health Care Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Gajewski, Evan T. Ward, Shivaprasad Dhanapal
  • Patent number: 5573213
    Abstract: A self-retaining glide for the lower end of each leg of a walker. Preferably installed onto each rear leg of the walker, the device decreases forward drag while substantially increasing resistance to sideways or lateral movement by providing a plurality of downwardly facing or extending parallel ground, floor and carpet engaging fins. These fins are a molded part of an elongated main member which also includes one and preferably two spaced apart tubular supports for retaining the device in proper position on the leg lower end. In the preferred embodiment, the combination of snugly fitting tubular supports on the leg and resilient flexing of a semi-rigid central portion of the main member from a flat to a U-shape securely maintains the fins in a fore/aft orientation with respect to the walker after proper installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventors: Richard E. Henderson, Kathleen O'Brien
  • Patent number: 5569129
    Abstract: A small, transportable, and rollable device for lifting and supporting patients undergoing partial weight bearing gait training (over treadmill or over ground) is provided. The carriage underlying this device is "U"-shaped with a pair of low horizontal rails making up the arms of the "U" and the lifting equipment being mounted at the closed end of the "U". Low profile for movement through doors and in low-ceiling rooms is achieved by a vertically telescoping height adjustment to the top of which is connected a horizontal "Y"-shaped connection to provide two connection points at the ends of the "Y" (and above and between the rails) for a patient harness. The harness construction provides sufficient adjustability for a therapist to achieve equal division of support among groin, abdominal, and chest areas, while permitting full leg extension of the patient. The low rails enable unobstructed access to the patient's legs during gait training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: Mobility Research L.L.C.
    Inventors: Amir Seif-Naraghi, David L. Dilli, Stephen C. D'Luzansky, Richard M. Herman
  • Patent number: 5531238
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for attaching a walker caddy container to a conventional walker is provided, wherein the apparatus is easily adjustable, without additional adapters, to accommodate attachment to a variety of walker designs. The apparatus comprises a pair of hanger arms which are adjustable and which provide vertical support by hanging from a horizontal connecting member of the walker, while a pair of support arms provide horizontal support by pressing against one each of a pair of forward leg members of the walker. The support arms are attached to a rotatable disc positioned beneath the walker caddy container, thereby to provide extendable adjustability to the support arms in order to accommodate horizontal support against a variety of walker designs. The support arms are slidably mounted to the walker caddy container and are lockable into a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventors: Paul T. Azzarelli, Carol Azzarelli
  • Patent number: 5524657
    Abstract: A knee/thigh pad holder assembly has adapter hardware for mounting adjustably to a wide variety of ambulatory aids such as walkers, canes, and crutches. The adapter hardware in one embodiment includes a bracket bolted to a knee/thigh pad holder with a holding rod clamped between the bracket and the knee/thigh pad holder. Adjustable clamps with clamping screws are employed to mount the knee/thigh pad holder via the holding rod across two parallel frame members of a walker. In another embodiment, a shorter tube is used in place of the holding rod, and rod clamps are pivotally attached to the short tube, such that the assembly may be adjustably mounted to a single upright member, providing thereby adjustable mounting to such as canes and crutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Inventor: Pey-en Jih
  • Patent number: 5520597
    Abstract: A light weight trainer to help infants to learn to walk safely, efficiently and effectively. A broad base provides a tip resistant trainer that can be easily and quickly adjusted to a comfortable height for different infants. This trainer can be locked into a folded position of minimum volume for packing, transporting and storage without tools. A scaled up model would provide more security and ease of use to adult users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Robert A. Tobin
  • Patent number: 5513789
    Abstract: Reflective fabrics are used extensively throughout strong, expandable, selectively and resiliently restrained, fabric accessories for removable securement to crutches and walkers, to provide expandable carrying volumes for personal use items and shopping items, while at the same time presenting the reflective fabric portions to be readily observed, especially by operators of vehicles. In this Divisional Application, the claims are directed to providing a pocket accessory for walkers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventors: Robert D. Woods, Sandra E. Radcliffe
  • Patent number: 5511571
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for gait measurement in which a walking aid such as a walker, cane, or crutch is instrumented with load sensors to measure the loads in the aid as it is being used. The measured loads are used to analyze the user's gait to insure proper selection and sizing of a walking aid, stability of the user, and proper limb loading. In a preferred embodiment, strain gauges are mounted on the legs of a walker and connected through a signal processing interface to a computer for data analysis and display. The gauges are mounted, calibrated, and connected to the signal processing interface so as to permit measurement of the axial, bending, and torsional forces in each leg of the walker as it is being used. This data is then used for qualitative and quantitative assessment of the user's gait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventors: Ronald S. Adrezin, Marc A. Cordaro, Fikre S. Wang, Avital Fast
  • Patent number: 5509152
    Abstract: A transfer aid for assisting people with restricted mobility to rise from a seated position into a standing position. It is a lightweight, portable device having a portion for the user to grasp positioned directly in front of the user. Two supports are each located on either side of the portion to be grasped, and are each rotatable with respect to this portion. This adds flexibility to the device and permits it to be used in a plurality of situations. The transfer aid is easily transported by tilting it so that it rests upon wheels, or tilting it so that it rests upon plastic caps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventor: Arlin J. Kippes
  • Patent number: 5499856
    Abstract: A foldable front-entry safety walker is disclosed having a resistance to backward motion of the walker. Various embodiments of the walker are disclosed. The walker includes a pair of side frames, along with a corresponding pair of front legs and a pair of rear legs. A foldable seat is disposed at the rear portion of the walker. The walker is relatively lightweight allowing a person with limited walking ability to easily advance the walker forward. The rear legs may have spring-loaded brakes that are functional to prevent backward motion of the walker under certain conditions. If the user falls backward for whatever reason, the user will strike either the seat back or the seat cushion and the force of the falling body will activate a spring-loaded rear legs to prevent backward motion of the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: Sorrell Medical, Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael R. Sorrell, Lawrence W. Engdahl, Simon Slootsky
  • Patent number: 5499645
    Abstract: An integral stair climber, lifter, bracer and walker includes a frame which has a pair of spaced apart upright struts or members. A cross piece extends between the upright members two-thirds of the distance up the upright members. A handle portion is attached to the upright members at the upper end thereof. The handle portion includes a pair of opposed, vertically disposed segments which are receivable on the upright members. A grip pair is located on top of each vertically disposed segment and includes two grips, one located posteriorly to a vertically disposed segment and another extending anteriorly to the vertically disposed segment. A transverse element extends between the two vertically disposed segments or struts. Each anteriorly located grip is connected between the transverse clement and the vertically disposed segment. A four-footed base is located on the lower end of each upright member and is orthogonal thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: Arvind B. Baliga
  • Patent number: 5479953
    Abstract: A walker cart for an ambulatory patient includes a telescoping rod with a holder at the top end of the rod for holding one or more intravenous solution bags to which the patient is connected, and frame members to which infusion pump elements may be connected for the patient. The cart includes caster wheels for maneuvering the cart and handle elements which may be grasped by the ambulatory patient in several different ways, according to the desiderata or capability of the ambulatory patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Patrick S. Pasulka
  • Patent number: 5480079
    Abstract: A carrying container that is releasably attached to various ambulatory appliances by a mounting arrangement that has a common interface. The common interface is adapted to snugly mate with several different ambulatory appliances. The carrying container includes several compartments which are dimensioned to receive articles in a snug manner to secure the same during travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Karl J. Douglass
  • Patent number: 5477211
    Abstract: An ambulation aid warning device for warning the uses when an ambulation aid is about to be used improperly. The device includes one or more gravity sensitive switches to activate an auditory, visual and/or sensory alarm when the ambulation aid is tilted beyond a specified angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 5476432
    Abstract: A medical stroller includes a patient support frame having a first pair of curved patient support rails. A pivot pin and end plate pivotally join a respective proximal end of one of the patient support rails to a proximal end of the other of the patient support rails, and permits movement of the patient support rails between a closed, patient encircling support position and an open, patient ingress/egress position. First and second leg frames are attached to the patient support frame for vertically spacing the patient support rails above a supporting surface, and positioning the patient support rails generally in the region of between the waist and upper torso of the patient. Caster wheels are carried by the first and second leg frames for permitting rolling movement of the stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Robert Dickens
  • Patent number: 5467793
    Abstract: In an orthotic walker, mechanism is provided to bias alternate motion of a user's legs. The mechanism may be a reciprocating bar at hip level, or at least one strap ends of which are attached to leg braces and the bight passing round a fixed frame member. A stirrup mechanism may be pivoted at an "ankle joint" and the pivotal motion may be limited to avoid toe down position. The stirrup may have a clamp for a shoe. Brake mechanism may be movable between operative and inoperative positions. In the operative position rearward rolling is disallowed while forward motion is allowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Ontario Crippled Children's Centre
    Inventor: David Hart
  • Patent number: 5465744
    Abstract: In the present invention, an adjustable mobility assist device is provided which has a base, means for obtaining leverage against a stationary object, and grasping means which allow the user to reach out and up while rising from a seated position. In its several embodiments, the device can be adapted for use in rising from a chair, bed, or commode. Handles are provided so that the device can also assist in walking. Arms are also included for supporting the users arms, a reading or eating tray, and the like. The device is portable and can be moved from one piece of furniture to another within the home with the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Assignee: My Independence, Inc.
    Inventor: U. Grant Browning
  • Patent number: 5460394
    Abstract: An invalid transport cart includes a pair of spaced-apart wheeled base rails, vertical posts extending therefrom, a brace extending between the rails and posts, a padded seat extending between the posts above the brace and sloped towards the front of the cart, and a horizontal grip bar extending from one of the vertical posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Rachel Novi
  • Patent number: 5449013
    Abstract: A device for assisting a disabled person to rise from a seat to a standing position and for assisting a disabled person to sit from a standing position is provided. The device comprises a mat attached to floor rails which are attached to hand grips and forearm supports. In one embodiment, the device has a unitary construction, and in another embodiment, the device has a modular construction. The device is compatible for use with both wheelchairs and walkers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Dawn Landers
    Inventor: Allan L. Landers
  • Patent number: 5445174
    Abstract: A brace for assisting a disabled person in rising from a sitting position to a standing position has a handle extending from a vertical support such as a leg of a walker. The handle is moveable affixed to the vertical support by a coupling for positioning the handle for rising and for storage on the walker while walking. The handle is positioned above a lower horizontal member of the brace for enabling the person to rise from the sitting position. A handle grip is formed to cause optimum use of forearm muscles during the rising movement. A friction pad is affixed within an aperture of the coupling for retarding movement of the handle and hold it in a desired position along the vertical support. The brace has a U-shaped bracket for securing the apparatus in a stored position during transport. A pad is affixed within the bracket cradle for sound absorption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas W. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 5443304
    Abstract: A combination chair and walker comprises a frame having laterally spaced apart front legs and rear legs spaced rearwardly thereof for movement over a floor in a stable, upright configuration. A seat has a forward edge spaced rearwardly of the front legs and defining an open space extending rearwardly of the front legs for accommodating a person's legs while in a standing, walking and sitting position. A mechanism, adjustably attached to the frame and selectively positionable, supports at least one of a person's side and arms. A frontal cross bar extends laterally between the adjustable side and arm support mechanism, the cross bar having one end portion pivotally connected to one side of the adjustable side and arm support mechanism to permit ingress and egress of the person from a front side of the chair/walker. A crotch strap is attached to the frame and extends between a person's legs into the open space, the strap being releasably attachable to the frontal cross bar while in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: Innovative Products Unlimited, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur J. Fochs
  • Patent number: 5441289
    Abstract: A walker/vehicle for a child includes a U-shape chassis member which is movably supported on a plurality of wheels and a frame member including spaced, transversely extending, seat and handle bar portions and a pair of side connector portions extending therebetween. The frame member is adapted to be alternatively assembled with the chassis in a vertically extending first position in which the handle bar portion thereof provides a walker handle bar or a horizontally extending second position in which the seat portion thereof provides a vehicle seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee Spielberger
  • Patent number: 5433235
    Abstract: A foldable and lockable walker is disclosed that includes a pair of locking members provided on the cross-brace and cooperatively engaged to the horizontal portion of the side supports. The locking member receives a spring biased pin to lock the side supports against relative movement with respect to the cross-brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Guardian Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Zivko Miric, Leo Zatulovsky, Cuong Bui
  • Patent number: 5433682
    Abstract: An infant exerciser adapted for use in a substantially stationary location has a combined tray and infant seat which are attached to a base such that the tray and seat can be revolved conjointly in an orbital manner. The seat can also rotate about its own axis of rotation, whereby an infant who is positioned in the seat can walk along a circular path and/or turn in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Pediasafe Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Fermaglich, Lois F. Fermaglich
  • Patent number: 5427438
    Abstract: A combination chair and walker comprises a primary frame and a bottom frame. The primary frame having laterally spaced apart primary front and rear legs spaced rearwardly thereof. The primary frame releasably attached to the bottom frame. The bottom frame comprising an auxiliary frame extending laterally from the primary front and rear legs. The auxiliary frame has auxiliary front and auxiliary rear legs. The primary front and auxiliary rear legs provide for movement over a floor in a stable, upright configuration. The auxiliary front legs extend close to the floor to provide added stability to prevent a person from tipping the chair/walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Innovative Products Unlimited, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur J. Fochs
  • Patent number: 5411044
    Abstract: A walker for a handicapped person has a pair of base rails juxtaposed, and a pair of front posts extend therefrom. Each front post is attached to a front of a respective rail. A first pair of rotation-changeable motors drives a pair of actuators, initially pointing upwardly. A first pair of gear reduction devices, which in combination with a pair of rear posts, can be rendered tiltable, has respective input shafts coupled to respective output shafts of the motors. The pair of tiltable rear posts are extendable or retractable by rotation-sense selection of the first pair of motors. A pair of crutch supports are in contact with the rear posts, Which fit under the armpits of the handicapped person. A pair of levers which extend outwardly and downwardly from the pair of crutch supports, respectively, are bent rearwardly, and equipped with handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Alexander S. Andolfi
  • Patent number: 5409028
    Abstract: The present disclosure is related to a front frame lifter for use in a walking supporter. When encountering obstacles on a path, a user can let down a footboard through a controlling plate and then lift the front frame by means of leverage by stepping on the footboard. Thus, the user can pass through the obstacles easily. Moreover, the lifting device can be applied to other carts such as a shopping cart or a perambulator with the same effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Assignee: Apex Medical Corp.
    Inventor: Daniel Lee