Folding Patents (Class 135/74)
  • Patent number: 11877965
    Abstract: The present invention provides an assistive mobility device convertible between a rollator mode and a transport chair mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Assignee: Triumph Mobility, Inc.
    Inventors: Torrin Mullins, John Tutton, Luc Boucher, Robert Watters, David Mackereth
  • Patent number: 11801193
    Abstract: Example ambulation aid apparatus and associated methods of manufacture are disclosed and described herein. An example ambulation aid apparatus includes an ambulation aid body formed as an integral part, the integral part formed in monocoque construction to provide support for mobility of a user through the integral part, the integral part providing a plurality of grippable areas to facilitate user movement and support through the integral part. Another example ambulation aid apparatus includes a primary panel formed in monocoque construction to provide support for and assist in mobility of a user through the skin of the monocoque primary panel, the primary panel formed to interrelate with one or more subassemblies to provide an integrated monocoque part to assist in providing support for and improved mobility of the user through the integrated monocoque part. Example methods of manufacture are also disclosed and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2023
    Assignee: MOTIVO, INC.
    Inventors: Jeremy F. Knopow, Jennifer R. Harris
  • Patent number: 11510843
    Abstract: Walkers capable of adapting to surrounding environments, including stairs, curbs, sidewalks, and other surface or ground obstacles that have adjacent uneven surfaces. The walkers include a frame assembly having back legs, front legs, and a handlebar fixedly coupled to the back legs. Intermediate members respectively couple the front legs to the back legs and are configured for selective vertical adjustment of vertical positions of the front legs relative to the back legs and relative to at least a first surface engaged by lower ends of the back legs. After selective vertical adjustment of the vertical positions of the front legs, the front and back legs of the walker are capable of engaging and supporting the walker on the first surface engaged by the lower ends of the back legs and engaging and supporting the walker on at least a second surface engaged by lower ends of the front legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Peter Christian Zibley, Peerapak Adsavakulchai, Cara Ellen Birschbach, Adalberto Angel Gonzalez, Jaclyn Marie Kowalski, Beatrice Lai Kuan Lim
  • Patent number: 11148023
    Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable stick (10), in particular a sports stick (10). The foldable stick (1) includes a plurality of stick segments (12, 14, 16) and at least one tensioning mechanism (18, 20). The stick (10) is adjustable between an assembled configuration in which all stick segments (12, 14, 16) are joined aligned axially with one another, and a disassembled configuration in which the stick segments (12, 14, 16) are detached from one another and can be folded together. The tensioning mechanism (18, 20) is adapted to pretension the stick segments (12, 14, 16) into the assembled configuration of the stick (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: KOMPERDELL SPORTARTIKEL GES.M.B.H.
    Inventor: Thomas Roiser
  • Patent number: 11071362
    Abstract: An adjustable and retractable rod includes an external pipe fitting, a multi-section rod and a positioning unit. The multi-section rod includes a first and at least one second foldable rod, where the first and second foldable rods have the same outer diameter, and the positioning unit includes a linkage rope, a positioning component and a locking component, which are used to pull the external pipe fitting and the first foldable rod relative to each other. The linkage rope can be dragged, and the locking component and the positioning unit interlocked or separated. When the locking component and the positioning component are interlocked, the external pipe fitting can be connected to the multi-section rod unit in an unfolded state. When the locking component moves away from the positioning component, the first and second foldable rods of the multi-section rod are folded and in parallel relative to the external pipe fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Assignee: LEKISPORT AG
    Inventor: Hsin Yuan Lai
  • Patent number: 10660414
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding pole (1), normally comprising four pipe sections (7-9), wherein the pipe sections (7-9) are connected to each other by means of plug-in connections while aligned along the pole axis (32) in the assembled state of the folding pole (1), and normally only three pipe sections (8, 8?, 9) are still connected to each other by means of a movable connecting element (16) in the folded state, and wherein a pole handle (2) is arranged on a top pipe section (7) and a pole tip (23) is arranged on a bottom pipe section (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignee: LEKISPORT AG
    Inventor: Klaus Lenhart
  • Patent number: 10499715
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an intelligent outdoor umbrella, including an umbrella body, and angle adjustment mechanism configured to adjust an angle in a vertical direction, a rotation mechanism configured to adjust an angle in a horizontal direction, a lifting mechanism, an environment monitoring mechanism and a main controller. An angle of an outdoor umbrella is automatically adjusted to follow the change in the sun angle and better achieve the purpose of shading. The lifting mechanism enables the outdoor umbrella to fold and unfold automatically. The environment monitoring mechanism includes a solar assembly and a wind speed measurement device, the direction of sunlight and the wind speed are monitored and the measured related data is transmitted to the main controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Assignee: Linhai Zhongtian Electronic Appliance Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Shimin Jin
  • Patent number: 10335332
    Abstract: A walker standing aid accessory package consists of a lower attachment and an upper attachment. The lower foot bar piece allows the caregiver to utilize body weight to pin the walker's front legs to the floor or ground surface securely. The upper part incorporates multiple hand placement stabilization choices for both the patient and the caregiver. This invention increases the patient's self help and reduces most of the caregiver's exertion. Once the patient is standing upright, the caregiver may step aside and monitor said patient's immediate ambulation. The accessory package converts an existing walker into a device that not only helps the patient to stand but also reduces the strain on the caregiver. The walker with the accessories installed offers no interference or compromise to the existing walker's integrity, mobility or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: GANM, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Dempsey Morris, Nancy Elaine Moore-Morris
  • Patent number: 9722368
    Abstract: Embodiments generally relate to a cable that substantially forms itself into a cylindrical shape when not extended, yet can be extended with a slight force to provide an electrical coupling as, for example, for earphones used with a mobile device such as a mobile phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Inventor: Charles J. Kulas
  • Patent number: 9655416
    Abstract: A crank handle positioning assembly structured to selectively position a mast mounted canopy of an umbrella into and between open and closed orientations. A gear housing is disposed within the interior of the mast in at least partially enclosing relation to a gear assembly and in driving relation to at least one elongated drive gear. A crank handle is disposed on an exterior of the mast and extends there-through into rotationally driving relation to the gear assembly. A rider member is interconnected in driving relation to the canopy assembly and is reciprocally movable along the length of the drive gear upon rotational, driving engagement of the crank handle with the gear assembly. Concurrent, cooperative directions of linear movement of the rider member and a rotational movement of the crank handle is determinative of the positioning of the canopy assembly in either the open or closed orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Inventor: Dougan H. Clarke
  • Patent number: 9422107
    Abstract: The lawn debris collector with removable rigid supports is a kit that is adapted to be used to collect lawn debris. The lawn debris collector includes a tarp member and a plurality of removable rigid supports. The plurality of removable rigid supports is each securable to a perimeter of the tarp member. More specifically, a first and second of the plurality of removable rigid supports are inserted into sleeves provided on a first and second edge of the perimeter of the tarp member. A plurality of immovable flexible supports is permanently secured along a bottom surface of the tarp member. The plurality of immovable flexible supports is perpendicularly oriented with respect to the plurality of removable rigid supports. The plurality of removable rigid supports are removed in order to fold the tarp member in half with lawn debris collected on said tarp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Walt Sigety
  • Patent number: 8985130
    Abstract: A magnetically assisted coupling comprises at least two shaft segments. Each shaft segment has opposed ends and a hollow core. Adjacent segment ends are configured in a probe/socket configuration such that one segment end is configured to receive the adjacent segment end. Magnets of opposite polarity are mounted within said hollow core of adjacent segment ends, such that the magnet in the socket is positioned at a bottom of the socket, while the magnet in the probe defines a probe end. When adjacent segment ends are brought into close proximity the magnets attract each other and draw the probe end into the socket until the magnets are in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: EdgeWater International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Howarth, Alan Gnann, Shawn Bannon Szczesiul
  • Patent number: 8967642
    Abstract: An apparatus having an upper frame adapted to at least partially encircle a person; a lower frame; a scissor mechanism for coupling the upper frame to the lower frame, wherein the distance between the upper frame and the lower frame can be varied by adjusting the scissor mechanism; and a telescoping rod coupled to the scissor mechanism for locking the scissor mechanism, wherein the distance between the upper frame and the lower frame is locked by the telescoping rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Entropy Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Kourosh Bagheri
  • Patent number: 8950415
    Abstract: Cylindrical first and second components have a joint between the components. The joint includes a male coupler with a first extent slidably received in the second component and a second extent formed with male coupling threads. Female carrier threads are provided on the male coupler. The joint also includes a female coupler slidably received in the first component. The female coupler has female carrier threads. The female coupler has female coupling threads adapted to removably couple with the male coupling threads of the male coupler. Tubular carriers have ends. Carrier threads are removably received in the carrier threads of the couplers. An elastic member has a central region located within the threads of the couplers and extending through the upper and lower carriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventors: Barry Spletzer, Richard E. Fate
  • Publication number: 20140332044
    Abstract: An articulated joint pivotably connects first leg and second legs. A first joint member attaches to the first leg. A second joint member attaches to the second leg. The joint members have facing abutment surfaces. Each joint member has a shaft opening receives a shaft for connecting the joint members, such that the legs may pivot between an open and a closed position. A clamping means releasably presses abutment surfaces of the joint members toward each other. A locking means releasably positively secures the joint members in at least the open position. Each joint member has a first aperture. The first aperture is radially offset from the shaft opening. The first apertures of each joint member are coaxially arranged in at least the open position. A device for supporting a person is included.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2012
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Flemming Møller
  • Publication number: 20140261593
    Abstract: A magnetically assisted coupling comprises at least two shaft segments. Each shaft segment has opposed ends and a hollow core. Adjacent segment ends are configured in a probe/socket configuration such that one segment end is configured to receive the adjacent segment end. Magnets of opposite polarity are mounted within said hollow core of adjacent segment ends, such that the magnet in the socket is positioned at a bottom of the socket, while the magnet in the probe defines a probe end. When adjacent segment ends are brought into close proximity the magnets attract each other and draw the probe end into the socket until the magnets are in contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: EDGEWATER INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Paul Howarth, Alan Gnann, Shawn Bannon Szczesiul
  • Publication number: 20140216510
    Abstract: A telescopic stick foldable in two portions (100), to be used for hiking, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, is made up of at least four tubular portions: an upper telescopic tubular part (200) provided with a grip (60), a first intermediate telescopic tubular part (300), a second intermediate telescopic tubular part (400), the telescopic parts sliding one in the other and fixable in position by locking elements, and a lower tubular part (500) terminating with a pointed end (1) connected to the second intermediate part adjacent to it. The lower tubular part (500) is restrained to the remaining parts by a rope (2) which traverses at least the second intermediate part (400), so that the stick can be folded in two parts, bringing the telescopic parts into a position of minimum extension and folding the lower part (500) on the others after having released it from the adjacent intermediate part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: GIPRON GUISEPPE PRONZATI S.R.L.
    Inventors: Marco Pronzati, Lorenzo Pronzati
  • Patent number: 8720914
    Abstract: A safety walker that provides a padded top member, a plurality of telescopic legs, a plurality of crossbars between the legs, a removable mesh seat, and a latchable door having a padded upper bar attached atop a U-shaped support base along with accessory attachments, including a holder frame for an oxygen tank, a table, and a receptacle bag. In addition to the telescopic legs, a hinge is disposed at each rear corner of the top member as well as between the crossbars to provide collapsibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventors: Alan C. Heath, Sherrie Heath
  • Patent number: 8714171
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for attachment to a walker which facilitates a user rising from a seated position or returning to a seated position. The device includes a clamp, a primary support region, an angular support, and a foot. The clamp further includes a perimeter dimensioned for receipt of a vertical support of a walker. The clamp further includes a mechanical fastener assembly for secure joinder to the first end of a primary support. The primary support includes a rigid length of material extending distally from the first end. The second end of the primary support is coupled to a first end of an angular support, the angular support extends away from the primary support where its second end is joined to a foot. The foot includes a bottom surface configured to bear load and transfer load to a seating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Gary E. Haygood
  • Publication number: 20140069475
    Abstract: The invention relates to a folding pole (1), normally comprising four pipe sections (7-9), wherein the pipe sections (7-9) are connected to each other by means of plug-in connections while aligned along the pole axis (32) in the assembled state of the folding pole (1), and normally only three pipe sections (8, 8?, 9) are still connected to each other by means of a movable connecting element (16) in the folded state, and wherein a pole handle (2) is arranged on a top pipe section (7) and a pole tip (23) is arranged on a bottom pipe section (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: LEKISPORT AG
    Inventor: Klaus Lenhart
  • Patent number: 8657351
    Abstract: The GOLF DISC AND FLYING DISC AND MULTIPURPOSE PICK UP TOOL is a lightweight, collapsible, segmented shaft fitted with a durable suction cup. The suction cup provides a vacuum adhesion on either side, or any location, on the golf disc or flying disc or other generally flat and smooth objects. The disc or object can then be picked up (retrieved) from any surface or obstacle within reach. A flick of the finger to the suction cup edge breaks the vacuum and the tool and disc or object are separated. The tool can be deployed and used with one hand. The tool can be carried and used as extended or folded and stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph Allen Johnson
  • Patent number: 8646804
    Abstract: A convertible wheeled patient aid for assisting a patient in a first transport mode and a second transport mode comprising a frame having at least one wheel, a seat, a handle. A configurable backrest, configurable from a first position to a second position. The aid further comprising a leg rigging movably coupled to the frame from a first position to a second position. A leg rigging retaining member, selectively engageable with the leg rigging member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Medline Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard P. Derks, Ishwor P. Adhikari
  • Publication number: 20140031176
    Abstract: Example ambulation aid apparatus and associated methods of manufacture are disclosed and described herein. An example ambulation aid apparatus includes an ambulation aid body formed as a integral part, the integral part formed in monocoque construction to provide support for mobility of a user through the integral part, the integral part providing a plurality of grippable areas to facilitate user movement and support through the integral part. Another example ambulation aid apparatus includes a primary panel formed in monocoque construction to provide support for and assist in mobility of a user through the skin of the monocoque primary panel, the primary panel formed to interrelate with one or more subassemblies to provide an integrated monocoque part to assist in providing support for and improved mobility of the user through the integrated monocoque part. Example methods of manufacture are also disclosed and described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Empathium Mobility, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy Frank Knopow, Jennifer R. Harris
  • Patent number: 8602424
    Abstract: There is provided, in combination, a collapsible walker and a collapsible basket. The walker includes a pair of spaced-apart, operatively interconnected frame members. The frame members each have an upper end for placing one's hand and a lower end spaced-apart from the upper end. Ground-engaging wheels are rotatably mounted to the lower ends of the frame members. A folding mechanism allows the frame members to be brought together for folding the walker. The collapsible basket includes a pair of spaced-apart, rigid end members, each being connectable with a respective one of said frame members. A flexible basket member extends substantially about, extends between and is supported by the rigid end members. The end members are moveable towards each other and the basket member thereby folds to collapse the basket when folding the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Evolution Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Publication number: 20130312797
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable pole including: an upper tube having a handle mounted thereon, a lower tube having a head part mounted thereon, and one or more intermediate tubes disposed between the upper tube and the lower tube; an elastic string having one end portion fixed to the inner lower end of the lower tube or the inner upper end of the upper tube and the other end portion extended up to the inner intermediate portion of the lower tube or the upper tube; and a non-elastic string having one end portion connected to the other end portion of the elastic string and the other end portion extended fixedly up to the interior of the upper tube or the lower tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Jeh-Kun LAH
  • Patent number: 8584993
    Abstract: A column includes a hinge assembly, the hinge assembly having an upper portion (2) pivotally attached to a lower portion (1) for movement about a first pivot axis (5), the upper portion of the hinge assembly being associated with an upper part (12) of the column and the lower portion of the hinge assembly being associated with a lower part (11) of the column. In use, movement of the upper and lower hinge assembly portions about the first pivot axis from a normal position, in which the upper part of the column is relatively upright, causes the upper part of the column to rotate towards the lower part of the column, thereby allowing the upper part the column to be moved to a maintenance position. An arm links (3), via second (6) and third (7) pivot axes, the upper and lower portions of the hinge assembly, and the arm is associated with a spring (9) that exerts a force via the arm, which urges the upper and lower hinge assembly portions towards the normal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: The Aluminum Lighting Company Limited
    Inventors: Alexandra Pumford, Craig Thomas Williams, Mark Alan Edwards
  • Patent number: 8562007
    Abstract: A walker (1) is disclosed, which comprises a base frame (20) supported by wheels (22) and support rods (3, 4) mounted on the said base frame (2) to support at a suitable height support means (7, 8) designed to support the patient during walking. The support rods (3, 4) are hinged mutually and to the base frame (2), in such a way to go from the operating position, in which the support means (7, 8) are at a suitable height to support the patient, to a minimum-volume position, in which the support means (7, 8) are near the baseframe (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Ormesa S.R.L.
    Inventor: Luigi Menichini
  • Patent number: 8517399
    Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a pair of upright, spaced-apart elongate members. Each elongate member includes an upper end for placing one's hands and a lower end spaced-apart from the upper end. A first pair of ground-engaging wheels are rotatably mounted to the elongate members at the lower ends. The apparatus includes a pair of support members that are spaced-apart and arc-shaped. The support members align respectively with and extend from the elongate members to distal ends of the support members. The support members have apexes extending towards the upper ends of the elongate members. A second pair of ground-engaging wheels operatively connect to the distal ends of the support members. The apparatus includes a seat for resting connecting to the apexes of the support members, the support members thereby supporting the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 8474470
    Abstract: The invention provides a forearm type of crutch comprising an operatively upright staff having a ground engaging foot at one end and a transverse handle and forearm support assembly at the operatively upper end, and wherein the angle of inclination of the forearm support assembly to the staff is adjustable, wherein the angle of inclination of the forearm support assembly relative to the staff is adjustable by means of a pair of co-operating positioning portions, one being stationary relative to the staff and the other being stationary relative to the forearm support assembly and wherein the positioning portions have complementarily co-operating zones that are engagable in different angular positions of the forearm support assembly and staff to provide a desired angle of inclination of the forearm support assembly relative to the staff and wherein releasable clamping means operatively hold the positioning portions in a selected engaged position for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Colin Patrick Albertyn
  • Patent number: 8448960
    Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a brake, a braking handle, a brake wire, a brake rod, and a brake rod assembly. A gripping member connects to the brake wire. The gripping member includes a plate having a first end, a second end and an aperture near the second end. The plate connects to the brake wire near the first end and the plate slidably receives the brake rod through the aperture near the second end. The gripping member includes a clamp that engages the brake wire via a set screw. The gripping member is spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod in a non-actuated mode. When the braking handle actuates the brake wire, the plate tilts with the first end elevating relative to the second end, thereby causing the plate to engage with and abut the brake rod for thereby actuating the brake rod to brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 8333208
    Abstract: A collapsible walking device that can be disposed in an operative (open) configuration and a storage (closed) configuration. The open, operative configuration of the walking device provides a structure to aid a user in walking or standing. The closed, storage configuration allows for easy and convenient storage and transport of the walking device. The collapsible walking device can be transitioned from the operative configuration to the storage configuration in one motion. The walking device includes four support legs that extend to the ground from adjacent two handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Stander Inc.
    Inventor: F. Troy Miller
  • Publication number: 20120223509
    Abstract: A lockable walker and a lock for use with a walker the lock including a constricted, U-shaped clasping region, a projection and an abutment shoulder, with the constricted, U-shaped clasping region snap fitting over the front leg or rear leg of a walker and slidably movable along the front leg or rear leg of the walker, so that when the walker is folded up and the lock is moved upward toward a leg extension that forms an offset hinge or pivot connecting the front and rear legs of the walker, a projection member of the lock is inserted into an opening formed by the leg extension and walker legs to thereby locked the walker in a storage position so that the walker legs cannot spontaneously unfold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Inventors: Ronald B. Gaudiano, Chi Chung "Richard" Loo
  • Patent number: 8251380
    Abstract: There is provided a walker apparatus having a brake, a braking handle, a brake wire, a brake rod, and a brake rod assembly. A gripping member connects to the brake wire. The gripping member includes a plate having a first end, a second end and an aperture near the second end. The plate connects to the brake wire near the first end and the plate slidably receives the brake rod through the aperture near the second end. The gripping member includes a clamp that engages the brake wire via a set screw. The gripping member is spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod in a non-actuated mode. When the braking handle actuates the brake wire, the plate tilts with the first end elevating relative to the second end, thereby causing the plate to engage with and abut the brake rod for thereby actuating the brake rod to brake.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 8215325
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: John A. Montanti
  • Patent number: 8215652
    Abstract: The mobilizer consists of an open, inverted “U” shaped frame when view from above with the legs or the “U” pointed towards the rear. Pivoting caster wheels are attached to the front lower corners and rear wheel support arms extend rearward and curve downward each bearing a smaller non-pivoting wheel. Two vertical upright support members rise from the frame and are equipped with height adjustment mechanisms. Horizontal arm support assemblies, each with a hand grip and brake handle are attached to the upper ends of the support members. The user is supported by his elbows and shoulder girdle resulting in decompression of his spine. The arm support assemblies can be pivoted 180 degrees so that the grip portions and the hand brake levers face the rear of the mobilizer at about waist height. This allows the user to stand and grasp the handles as he walks forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Dashaway Company
    Inventors: Stanley Dashew, Charles Blount
  • Patent number: 8186367
    Abstract: A foldable walker includes upstanding legs arranged in a generally square pattern, each of which is capped by a fixed joint member and each of which has a slider member slideably disposed on it. Two forward legs are interconnected by two rigid links arranged in a scissors arrangement with the uppermost end of each link pivotally connected to a fixed joint member and the lowermost end of each link pivotally connected to a slider. Each forward leg is interconnected to its associated rearward leg in the same way. Each pair of rigid links is interconnected to one another by a pivot pin. The linkage enables the width and the depth of the walker to be reduced to a very small space and telescoping legs reduce the height dimension of the walker. Handles are folded when the walker is stored and pivoted into their operable position when the walker is deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Tuan Le tran, Sukru Gokcek
  • Patent number: 8146615
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: Yeniel Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8083239
    Abstract: A foldable walker apparatus includes a pair of spaced-apart inner frame members of two parts each hinged together, with a pair of link members diagonally extending therebetween. Each link has a bend extending upwardly and outwardly. The walker has support members that are arc-shaped with a seat extending between their apexes. A collapsible basket is provided with two end members each having a rigid peripheral portion connecting the frame members and a basket member of flexible fabric extending therebetween. A self-adjusting brake rod is provided with a gripping member spring-biased to remain free of the brake rod until the gripping member is operatively actuated to engage and thereby actuate the brake rod. A brake housing fully extends around a brake pad mechanism, including a means for connecting and adjusting the corresponding brake pad, to at least the outer periphery of one of the wheels for fully protecting the brake pad mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Evolution Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Julian Liu
  • Patent number: 8079379
    Abstract: The invention relates to a baby walking stick which facilitates and accelerates the transition from crawling to walking in a physiologically appropriate manner. In addition, the invention prevents the accompanying adult from adopting unsuitable postures and the design of the stick provides increased safety by connecting the adult and the baby. The invention comprises a folding stick having an upper curved section which curves around the baby's erect head. The upper end of the stick is provided with a T-shaped handle for the adult and the centre of the stick, at the height of the baby's arms, is provided with handlebars with which the baby can hold himself/herself upright. The lower end of the stick is provided with two wheels so that the stick slides as the baby and adult walk, which wheels are in contact with the ground and joined by an axle parallel to the above-mentioned handle and handlebars, all of said components being disposed in parallel to the direction of movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Antonio Vilar Peron
  • Patent number: 8061376
    Abstract: A posterior walker is disclosed comprising: a foldable, tubular frame; adjustable handles; wheels including anti-rollback wheels in the back and pivoting wheels in the front; a flexible, adjustable lower back support strap; features to adjust the handling and stability of the walker, to meet the mobility and standing needs of persons with unsteady gait and standing posture, namely an adjustable weighting means; and optionally backpack storage. In one embodiment, the adjustable weighting means is provided by use of weighted stability cuffs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital
    Inventors: Stephen Ryan, Susan Hardy, William Johnson, Michael Doell
  • Publication number: 20110192942
    Abstract: A foldable frame includes two tubes, a rectangular tube and two base parts. The two tubes are pivotably or fixedly connected to the base parts. Two ends of the rectangular tube are connected to two respective extension portions of the two base parts by two pins so that the two tubes are pivotable about the two pins. The frame can also be structured as one tube directly connected to the rectangular tube and the other tube is pivotably connected to the base part. The extension of the base part is pivotably connected of the rectangular tube by a pin to form single-point folding feature. An outer tube is rotatably movable between one of the tubes and the rectangular tube, the outer tube hides the rectangular tube when the two tubes are arranged linearly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Chun-Sheng Liu
  • Publication number: 20100313924
    Abstract: A folding walker is formed in an X-shaped rear body having a pair of tubular frames. The frames are pivotally mounted on a pivot joint. Wheels are attached to the lower end of the body. A front leg is hingedly connected to the pivot joint so that the front leg is collapsible toward the legs and forms a tripod with the rear legs. Handle structures are adjustable to a desired height and angle. A brace is for locking the walker into unfolded position and unlocking the walker into folded position. A brake system shows that applying either of brake levers attached on the handle or both enables the brake shoes onto the wheels simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: SANG DEOG CHO
  • Patent number: 7841353
    Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable walking stick with adjustable length and shock-proofing mechanism. The foldable walking stick includes a rod holder containing at least two interconnected rods and a handle, arranged at an upper part of the foldable stick. Each rod connected to the handle is divided into first and second rod sections, the second rod section having a flexible pulling rope and a flexible locating pin. A plurality of locating holes, are arranged on the wall of the first rod section with different heights, allowing for locking by the flexible locating pin when inserting the second rod section. A tapered locating section is arranged onto the flexible locating pin. An inner space, is arranged onto the preset location of a rod. There is a shock-proofing mechanism, assembled within the inner space; and a grounding portion, arranged at bottom of either rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Hsien Lee
  • Publication number: 20100200032
    Abstract: The present invention provides a foldable walking stick with adjustable length and shock-proofing mechanism. The foldable walking stick includes a rod holder containing at least two interconnected rods and a handle, arranged at an upper part of the foldable stick. Each rod connected to the handle is divided into first and second rod sections, the second rod section having a flexible pulling rope and a flexible locating pin. A plurality of locating holes, are arranged on the wall of the first rod section with different heights, allowing for locking by the flexible locating pin when inserting the second rod section. A tapered locating section is arranged onto the flexible locating pin. An inner space, is arranged onto the preset location of a rod. There is a shock-proofing mechanism, assembled within the inner space; and a grounding portion, arranged at bottom of either rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Hsien LEE
  • Patent number: 7743778
    Abstract: A combined cane and urination aid for use by a male person is disclosed. The combination includes a cane having a support handle and at least two elongated support members extending downwardly therefrom. The support members are spaced apart along their length. The urination aid is retained between the elongated support members of the cane and includes a channel portion having an inlet end, a discharge end, and a length. The inlet end of the channel portion is shaped for receiving a flow of discharged urine. The channel portion conveys the flow away from the person so it may exit the discharge end of the channel portion at a sufficient distance to prevent splashed urine from reaching the person's body or clothes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventors: Clarence George Hare, Christine Ann Byrne, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7712477
    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. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventor: Alice McCarthy
  • Patent number: 7712479
    Abstract: A crutch enabled to fold on itself so the crutch can be stored in small places or confined areas. The crutch attaches to the forearm of a user with a flexible cuff during use. After use, an upper section and lower section of the crutch rotate toward one another using a pivoting joint. Further, the lower section of the crutch has telescoping sections, allowing the crutch to use substantially less space during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventor: Stephen Sundarrao
  • Patent number: 7703465
    Abstract: A locking assembly is disclosed for use with a walker or a rollator having foldable side members. The locking assembly includes a locking pin movable between a first position in which the corresponding side member is held in a locked, unfolded state and a second position in which the side member is in an unlocked, folded state. A lock plate extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding side member, and includes an aperture adapted to receive a locking end of the locking pin when the pin is in its first position. A lever is coupled to the locking pin such that when the lever is pivoted by upwardly applied pressure, the locking pin is moved from its first position to its second position to permit rotation of the corresponding side member to its folded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Medical Depot, Inc.
    Inventor: Harvey Diamond
  • Patent number: 7628411
    Abstract: A walker device for assisting an individual with mobility which is temporarily convertible to a wheeled transportation chair, includes a frame structure having two front legs and two rear legs, each of the legs having a leg extension adjustably attached thereto and supported on a rotatable wheel. A seat is attached to the frame structure. A backrest is selectively disposed in a front position for a rearward seating condition or in a rear position for a forward seating condition. A footrest assembly is optionally attached to the frame structure and is adapted to pivot about first and second pivoting axes parallel to each other, between a folded position and an unfolded position optionally with different height levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: AMG Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Seth Meyers, Cristian Boar, Ming Xu
  • Patent number: 7614414
    Abstract: Devices and methods are presented to provide a seating area on a common crutch. The convertible seat is low profile and maintained flat on a side of the crutch until needed. It may be opened easily and placed flat on the floor to provide the user with a convenient sitting or table area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: Anahita Jamshidi