With Occupant-propelled Walker Or Skater Frame Patents (Class 297/5)
  • Patent number: 4822030
    Abstract: This invention is concerned with a portable juvenile walker which may also function as a rocker. The walker has a seat portion. A tray may be associated with the seat portion. The seat portion is connected to a base frame which is substantially rectangular. The base frame is further hollow and as a cross section which is generally U shaped. A plurality of U shaped support bars are pivotally connected to the base frame and are of such a size that they can nest inside the bottom side of the base frame. Each of the U shaped support bars incorporates a plurality of wheels or casters. The terminal ends of the U shaped support bars are pivotally connected to the base frame. Each of the U shaped support bars is associated with a latch means whereby, the U shaped support bars can be locked into a plurality of positions. The bottom edges of the base frame may be planar or arcuate such that the composite device can function as a seat, or a rocker when the base frame engages the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Assignee: R/D/ & D, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard E. Cone
  • Patent number: 4807870
    Abstract: A walking trainer for use by individuals who either through disease or injury require the use of a controlled restraint device to enable them to exercise their limbs. The device comprises aligned vertical and horizontal torso restraints positioned on vertical and horizontal supports to allow mobility of the limbs while restraining the head and torso in a predetermined position. Body contacting members of the device are padded where the padding is further provided with removal fasteners to allow for cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Inventor: Allen G. Hickman
  • Patent number: 4777973
    Abstract: Disclosed is an alternate walker having extensible/contractible front and rear legs which comprises: a pair of reverse U-shaped frame pipes connected to each other in parallel through cross bar means; a pair of front legs slidably partly inserted into front lower ends of the pair of frame pipes respectively; a pair of rear legs slidably partly inserted into rear lower ends of the pair of frame pipes respectively; a train of serially connected substantially spherical bodies slidably inserted within each of the pair of frame pipes, the substantially spherical bodies in train being connected by a wire which is passed through the substantially spherical bodies in series and which is connected at its opposite ends to the front and rear legs respectively in each of the pair of frame pipes; and a pair of control means provided on the pair of frame pipes respectively for controlling sliding movement of the train of serially connected substantially spherical bodies within each of the pair of frame pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Inventor: Kotaro Nakajima
  • Patent number: 4773639
    Abstract: A walker for use by infants in learning to walk includes a pair of spaced apart closed ring structures that are supported apart by a plurality of inwardly inclined adjustable struts. The rings are of a variable diameter with the lower ring defining a base substantially larger than the upper ring. The upper ring is sized to substantially fit the torso of the infant so as to confine the infant and prevent the infant from falling. The lower, larger ring provides an enlarged base which prevents the apparatus from tipping during use. The infant grips the upper ring during use. The adjustable struts allow adjustment between the upper and lower rings so that the device can be sized to fit each user of different height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventor: Kurt M. Graves
  • Patent number: 4770410
    Abstract: An invalid walker has a frame in the form of a seat and seat back with arms and telescopic legs depending from the arms. An air compressor is provided on the seat back for extending and retracting the legs under occupant control so as to raise and lower the walker as between occupant-seated and occupant-standing positions. A removable front section is provided for the walker to enclose the occupant and form a safety constraint. A reinforcing ring with auxiliary stabilizing wheels is provided around the bottom of the legs. An occupant may use the device in a seated or standing position to assist in walking with the occupant's feet in ground engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1988
    Inventor: Guies L. Brown
  • Patent number: 4765355
    Abstract: A wheeled walking device is disclosed with a carriage frame having a first and second side bar. Each of the side bars includes a proximal and distal end with a transverse bar connecting the side bars in a torsionally rigid manner. A plurality of ground engaging wheels stably support the carriage frame. A first and second post each include a first and second end with the second ends of the first and second post securely mounted at each proximal end of each first and second side bar respectively. Each first and second post extends upwardly from the carriage frame relative the ground. A first crossbar is securely attached to each first end of the first and second post to interconnect the first post with the second post and to provide for an arm rest surface. The plurality of wheels includes a first and second wheel rotatably mounted at the second ends of the first and second posts, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Inventor: Charles C. Kent
  • Patent number: 4761013
    Abstract: A user propelled vehicle comprises a seat frame, a back pivotally connected to the rear of the seat frame about a first pivot axis and a leg support pivotally connected to the front of the seat frame about a second pivot axis parallel to the first. A support surface engaging roller is provided on each of the seat frame and the leg support. The leg support and the seat frames can rollingly approach and retreat from one another along a floor or other support surface between a contracted position, in which the seat frame extends forwardly upwardly and the leg support extends sharply forwardly downwardly from the seat frame, and an extended position, in which the seat frame extends approximately horizontally and the leg support inclines relatively gently to the frame. A hydraulic linkage is provided for maintaining the vehicle in the contracted and extended positions and for maintaining the back in positions extending sharply upwardly from or relatively gently inclining with respect to the seat frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1988
    Assignee: The Board of Governors of Ryerson Polytechnical Institute
    Inventor: Gordon H. Dowton
  • Patent number: 4759562
    Abstract: A kit for converting a wheel chair into a walker for a patient comprising a seat for replacing the wheel chair bottom, a base for mounting the seat to the wheel chair to define an open space for the patient in front of the seat between the sides of the wheel chair, the seat positioned immediately below the patient's buttocks when the patient is standing in the space. The kit also includes an inverted U-shaped support bar is mounted across the front of the wheel chair in position where it can be grasped by the patient, the support bar retaining the patient between the sides of the wheel chair and the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1988
    Inventors: Lillian L. Vinyard, Edward J. Taylor
  • Patent number: 4748994
    Abstract: A walking aid adapted for use either before or behind the invalid user and comprising a pair of tubular side sections spaced apart and connected by a transverse brace at one pair of opposed ends to form a four legged free standing walker frame. Each side section support and adjustably disposable upwardly extending hand support enable the latter to be best positioned for the user and for the use of the walker in either its fore of after the patient position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1988
    Assignee: Guardian Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim R. Schultz, Michael Doom
  • Patent number: 4722356
    Abstract: An attachment for an invalid walker that provides an adjustable padded support for the user's knee. The attachment has easily adapted hook elements for ready attachment to and detachment from conventional walkers. Provision is made for both vertical and angular position selectivity, and the support for the pad enables reversal of the pad supporting post so as to increase the versatility of the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1988
    Inventor: Carol C. Rehder
  • Patent number: 4700730
    Abstract: The present invention is an improved therapeutic walker of the type having rear support posts and wheels mounted on the bottom of front support posts. A leg member is attached to each of the front posts so that the leg members and rear posts rest on the support surface and the wheels of the front posts are spaced from the support surface. Clamp bracket assemblies are provided for adjustably securing the leg members to the front support posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Assignee: Regents of the University of Minnesota
    Inventors: John P. Samuelson, Douglas A. Quast
  • Patent number: 4699392
    Abstract: An improved carriage incorporates an automatic braking system that detects and reacts to the presence of a ledge and substantially inhibits movement of the carriage over the ledge. The carriage includes three rolling units pivotally coupled to a base in spaced relation about the periphery of the base. Each rolling unit includes a pair of wheels. A high friction pad is mounted on the base and presented toward the underlying surface for frictional engagement therewith. Movement of any one of the wheels over a boundary edge of the underlying surface causes the rolling unit supporting such wheel to pivot from a normally horizontal rolling position to a pivoted position. Such pivoting movement acts to collapse the carriage thereby lowering the high friction pad into frictional engagement with the underlying surface. A warning system is desirably provided for indicating engagement of the high friction pad and the underlying surface following collapse of the carriage to alert nearby persons of such collapse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Assignee: Cosco, Inc.
    Inventor: Chol Ku
  • Patent number: 4681332
    Abstract: A mobile vehicle for training beginning skaters is provided which has a fixed handlebar and seat mounted above a straddlebar extending between the two. The straddlebar is rigidly fixed to front and rear legs which are rigidly mounted to a wide and long base comprising two horizontal transverse base bars having swivelling caster wheels at their outer ends. The rear leg extends downward and considerably to the rear. The vehicle permits a beginning skater to train in a relatively uninhibited manner with support from a fall forward by the handlebars and skate toes and support from a rearward fall by the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1987
    Assignee: University of Tennessee Research Corporation
    Inventor: Don Malone
  • Patent number: 4641882
    Abstract: An orthopedic appliance, such as a crutch, adapted to support the body of an injured or handicapped person without the use of his arms and hands. The crutch is adapted to be readily movable with the person and comprises a principal frame assembly having a lower portion adapted to engage and rest upon a travelled surface in position of use, a seat assembly disposed at the other end of the frame and forming body support means for a person. The crutch has at least one handle extending radially outwardly from said frame and spaced downwardly apart from said seat assembly, and it is positioned relative to said frame so as to be able to be grasped by said person while said person is supported by said seat. Preferably the appliance also includes a foot support peg assembly near the bottom, a clip or the like for securing the ankle to the bottom of the frame and a height adjustment assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1987
    Inventor: John Young
  • Patent number: 4623163
    Abstract: A collapsible lightweight chair for handicapped individuals that is easily removable from an automobile and can be unfolded without requiring adjustment for the user. The travel chair comprises a lightweight wheeled base having a folding chair pivotally attached thereto. A pivoting front rail is located in front of the folding chair and extends upward from the base. Pivoting side rails extend from the chair to latching engagement with the front rail. The front rail can be pivoted to a vertical position and the side rails can be pivoted away from the front rail to allow the user to enter and exit the chair from either side, the front rail being linked to a brake mechanism for preventing rotation of the rear wheels and turning of the front wheels when it is vertically upright, the wheels being freed for turning and rotating when the front rail is angled back so that the side rails can be latched in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1986
    Inventor: Vinson S. Potts
  • Patent number: 4620714
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a wheelstand for handicapped or immobile persons having a generally rectangular main frame rotatably supported on a ground support surface by relatively small wheels while larger wheels are rotatably mounted to the frame and manually rotated by the user in order to propel the frame. A generally planar body support structure is pivotally carried by the frame so that the angular position of the support structure can be varied with respect to the frame while still enabling the user to grip the larger wheels and propel the wheelstand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1986
    Inventor: Daniel W. Davis
  • Patent number: 4615523
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus for adjusting the height of a walker which includes a seat, a slidable base, and two U-shaped tubes which are pivotally connected to each other in a crosswise arrangement and are placed between the seat and the slidable base with one central portion of one U-shaped tubes pivotally connected to the rear side of the seat, and the other central portion of the other U-shaped tube movably engaged to the underside of the seat near its front side, the adjusting apparatus comprising two plates secured on the underside of the seat in a parallel arrangement, with each plate having an indented portion formed at its underside; two sliding members provided on the movable central portion, and slidably engaged with the plates respectively; a controlling member pivotally connected with the movable central portion, and having an engaging portion, with an operating portion opposite to the engaging portion, and two protuberances extended upwards; and a spring member arranged between
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1986
    Inventor: Ming-Yaw Chen
  • Patent number: 4576392
    Abstract: A ratchet-type catch assembly is disclosed for attachment as a slide connection between a scissors frame and an object supported by the frame. While one leg of the scissors frame is fixed to the object in a hinge-type, nonsliding manner and the other in sliding manner, the assembly forms part of the latter, providing a series of locking catches at successively varying angles of the scissors frame, and the discrete graduated heights of the object. The pawl and ratchet stops are oriented to permit vertical elongation of the frame by the application of upward force to the object, while preventing collapse. The catch is opened by release of the pawl, permitting complete collapse of the frame to a flattened configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Assignee: Gerber Products Company
    Inventor: Robert L. Quinlan, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4569532
    Abstract: An infant crawler used to assist infants in learning to walk, wherein the infant is supported by a central frame in a generally forwardly inclined position at a height whereat the infant's feet can reach the floor, so that the infant may move the crawler by pushing with its foot action. The torso of the infant is supported in a generally forwardly inclined position, so that the infant's strength and attention are not diverted from the process of learning leg and foot movement, to the necessity for supporting and coordinating the upper body. In a preferred embodiment, the central frame includes a forwardly and upwardly inclined torso support, and a rearwardly and upwardly inclined seat disposed behind the torso support. This central frame is in turn supported by four legs providing a wide base to avoid tipping, and having wheels on the ends so that the infant crawler may be pushed about by the infant. A belt is also preferably provided to fix the infant to the central frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1986
    Inventor: Seyed A. Mirkarimi
  • Patent number: 4524988
    Abstract: An upright bicycle for supporting a handicapped or infirm person in a generally vertical position while providing a self-propelled ambulatory capability is disclosed. A pyramidal-shaped frame is comprised of a plurality of generally vertical telescoping members mounted on a flat, generally horizontal platform. Two large side wheels are rotationally mounted to the frame and easily rotated by a person positioned on an aft portion of the platform. The platform is provided with foot pads on the upper surface thereof for enhanced user support, with rollers/casters provided on the lower side thereof for increased platform stability. A sternal support in combination with a removable tray is mounted to an upper portion of the frame, while to an intermediate portion thereof is mounted a strap/buttocks support adapted to extend around and encompass the lower, rear portion of the torso of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1985
    Inventor: Frederick P. Netznik
  • Patent number: 4469372
    Abstract: A light weight tripodal, rollable stool provided with low friction casters has a bicycle seat, seat support post, and height adjustment means rigidly supported by a front leg, and has two rear legs rigidly supporting the front leg. The stool supports a person seated thereon in a generally standing position. The front leg is shaped to allow the stool to be used in close proximity to work stations like kitchen counters or workbenches, while the rear legs and front leg are arranged so as to provide generous clearance for the legs of a person rolling about on the stool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Inventor: Daniel C. Long
  • Patent number: 4452484
    Abstract: An improved walker, wherein the improvement comprises:a. a tray having slidable supports removably mountable within brackets disposed on the rear legs of the walker, with said tray further having hooks engageable on a horizontal support rod of the walker for storage;b. a removably mountable seat whose two lateral edges each extend beyond and rest upon support rods, with said seat having lateral movement stops to prohibit seat movement during use, and with said seat further having hooks engageable on a horizontal support rod of the walker for mounting or for storage; andc. a back rest disposed behind and mounted to an upper support rod extending between the legs at the front of the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1984
    Inventor: Peter M. Pastor
  • Patent number: 4451080
    Abstract: A mobility aid for use in conjunction with crutches or like, by a legless person or a person afflicted with paraplegia for step-like ambulation, the aid having a foot with a convex lower surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Inventor: Ceoma Nix
  • Patent number: 4449750
    Abstract: Container accessories are configured for removable securement to mobility aids such as walkers, wheelchairs or the like with tubular frame members. Each accessory includes a framework and panel members supported by the framework to define at least one compartment, the framework being self-supporting. Both the framework and panel members are of strong, lightweight material, e.g., aluminum. Resilient spring clips are carried by the framework at locations thereon for supporting the framework from the frame members of the aid by engaging its tubular frame members. For use with a walker, the accessory is preferably multiply compartmented and engages a cross member of the walker. For use with wheelchairs, frame components of the accessory framework are adjustable and reconfigurable to permit engagement of arm support members of the wheelchair, even though of different possible frame configurations, at the front or at the side of the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Inventor: Martin D. Pultman
  • Patent number: 4433869
    Abstract: A tray and seat are adjustable vertically with respect to a base on a baby walker. Connecting means extending from the tray to the base is associated with a pawl having teeth meshed with a rack on the bottom surface of the tray. The meshed teeth are shaped so that the tray and seat can be elevated with respect to the base only by applying an upward force on the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1984
    Assignee: Dawn Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Rex E. Payne, Jr., Ronald R. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 4411283
    Abstract: An invalid walker suitable for use on level or unlevel surfaces or for going up and down stairs having a telescoping front leg assembly for positioning the front legs at various levels. Suitable locking means are provided to maintain the front legs at the preselected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1983
    Inventor: Frank J. Lucarelli
  • Patent number: 4364576
    Abstract: A baby walker is provided with a substantially doughnut-shaped upper frame and a seat suspended from the upper frame by three straps. The end of each strap is provided with an engaging bar disposed at right angles with the direction of the length of the strap. The opposite ends of the engaging bar project beyond the widthwise ends of the strap. Attached to the lower surface of the upper frame are adjusting members each having a plurality of downwardly opened recesses. A guide member is provided adjacent each adjusting member and spaced apart from the lower surface of the upper frame. The straps are led from below the upper frame and mounted on the upper surfaces of the guide members, with the ends of the straps being led to the adjusting members. Each engaging bar engages one of the associated engaging recesses. In this state, the load on the seat forces the engaging bars into the innermost regions of the engaging recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1982
    Assignee: Kassai Kabushikikaisha
    Inventor: Kenzou Kassai
  • Patent number: 4359242
    Abstract: A walker-jumper comprises a support member carrying a seat for a child, a base member, and a collapsible and expandable frame connecting the support and base members to allow adjustment so that the feet of the child can contact the ground to propel the walker-jumper. The frame connection to the support and base members is by way of a slidable mount for permitting the members to be expanded to a desired one of several expanded positions so that the distance to the ground may be controlled for different sized children. The frame passes through a mounting member slidably carried below the support member and a lock engages the mounting member to fix the base and support members in the desired expanded position. After being locked in place, the frame is yieldably coupled to the mounting member to allow limited movement of the frame relative to the mounting member, responsive to bouncing movements of a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1982
    Assignee: Cosco, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald L. Gerken, Donald L. Moore, Stephen M. Degnen
  • Patent number: 4342465
    Abstract: A safety walker includes a rigid framework which surrounds the front, back and sides of a handicapped person. The framework includes two sections which are hinged together at one side of the framework. The two sections can be opened with respect to each other to admit entry of the handicapped person. After entry of the handicapped person, the hinged sections are rigidly locked together. A vertically adjustable seat is supported within the framework adjacent to the rear portion thereof. A plurality of legs having outwardly flared lower portions with casters attached thereto support the framework and allow the safety walker to be rolled along a walking surface. A heavily cushioned support cord extends between the front of the seat and the front portion of the framework and functions as a saddle to partially support the weight of the person if he or she stumbles and begins to fall while utilizing the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1982
    Inventor: Delia Stillings
  • Patent number: 4307715
    Abstract: An ambulatory aid for use with conventional, physical therapy walker railings of the type found in most hospitals includes a horizontal rod extending from a patient brace to each of the walker railings, with means for holding the patient to the brace and the ends of the rod to the railings. The aid has wheels and stabilizers coupled with the brace and rod to prevent the patient from falling forward or backward while moving between the walker railings, and is provided with a handle attached to the rod and brace for further patient support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1981
    Inventor: Emilie D. Fante
  • Patent number: 4277100
    Abstract: Ambulatory apparatus forassisting an invalid is disclosed which includes a rigid frame on which is carried at least three wheels. A brake shoe cooperates with at least one of the wheels. The brake shoe is biased into engagement to limit the movement of the walker unless the bias is manually overcome or locked out of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1979
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1981
    Inventor: Gael Beougher
  • Patent number: 4254948
    Abstract: A mechanized crutch having vertically adjustable leg rest and body bracket, a wide tread wheel, a drive belt, gearing and a drive wheel are mounted on an elongated leg means. The leg rest and body bracket provide body support. The drive belt, gearing and drive wheel are arranged on the elongated leg means to transmit locomotive power from the drive wheel to the wide tread wheel mounted on the bottom of the elongated leg means. The drive wheel, which may be manual or battery powered, is located within reach of the user's hand on the side of his injured leg. Stabilization is provided by front and rear outrigger tubing having small wheels which roll on the walking surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1981
    Inventor: Eugene A. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 4245850
    Abstract: A scissor frame lock includes a circular plate sandwiched between the corresponding legs of the scissor frame at their point of intersection. The legs and the plate are formed with aligned openings for slidably receiving a pivot pin. One end segment of the pivot pin is bent back on itself so that the end segment bypasses the adjacent leg and extends through a second opening in the plate. The pin is biased outwardly so that when the two legs are more or less perpendicular the pin segment projects into an opening in the other frame leg to lock the legs in that orientation. The legs are folded/together by depressing the pin so as to disengage its end segment from that opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1981
    Assignee: Hedstrom Co.
    Inventor: Robert J. Boudreau
  • Patent number: 4239248
    Abstract: A three-wheeled vehicle has three major frame components: the first two being spaced parallel bars disposed horizontally relative to the ground; the second being two bars hingedly connected to the first bars at an angle thereto and approaching each other at their second ends; the third being a third bar to which the second bars are hingedly attached intermediate the ends of the third bar. The first wheel pair supports the first frame member and the second steerable wheel supports the third frame member at one end. The other end of the third frame member carries a seat which is supported between the spaced bars of the first frame member. The seat is adjustable and the height of the frame components is also adjustable. The second wheel means is remotely controlled by hand controls provided at convenient locations on the first frame member. The first, second and third frame components may be locked in place for use and the walker may be collapsed in and upon itself for storage and transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1980
    Inventor: Marion H. Ewers
  • Patent number: 4231582
    Abstract: A play seat includes telescoping scissor frames for supporting a seat above a base ring composed of two opposing arcuate ring sections whose opposite ends are connected together by stiff coil springs. The lower ends of the scissor frames are pivotally connected to the ring sections so that any weight in the seat tends to spread apart the ring sections thereby tensioning the springs whereby the seat is resiliently supported above the ground. Each spring is protectively enclosed within a plastic sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1980
    Assignee: Hedstrom Co.
    Inventor: Mark D. Moss
  • Patent number: 4226467
    Abstract: A foldable cantilevered playseat has a base and a generally U-shaped seat-supporting member whose ends are pivotally connected to the base. Telescoping resiliently biased struts pivotally connected between the frame member legs and the bight of a bail swingably connected to the base resiliently bias the seat-supporting frame member above the base. A fabric seat supported by the frame member is arranged to support a child so that his feet can engage the floor below the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1980
    Assignee: Hedstrom Co.
    Inventor: Robert J. Boudreau
  • Patent number: 4225146
    Abstract: A device for exercising an infant while walking characterized in that connection metal fittings having open outer sides are fastened to an upper portion of right and left side rods which constitute resilient lower legs formed in a V-shape, hooking holes formed on the opposing side walls of said right and left connection metal fittings in the vertical direction maintaining a distance between the upper and lower legs, said hooking holes being communicated by a path narrower than the diameter of said hooking holes. A horizontal rod of an upper leg folded in a U-shape is inserted in said right and left connection metal fittings. Hooking rods which fit into the hooking holes are attached to the right and left side portions of said horizontal rod thereby to construct a leg member, and the thus constructed leg member is fitted to a plate ring having wheels and to a table plate on which is mounted a saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1978
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1980
    Assignee: Takeuchi Press Limited Company
    Inventor: Kazutsugu Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 4211309
    Abstract: An invalid walker includes a frame having a plurality of support points. A wheel is secured to the frame at each of the support points. A brake is connected to each wheel and includes a brake drum attached to the wheel, a brake lining surrounding substantially the entire circumferential peripheral surface of said brake drum and force generating means connected to said brake lining for providing a force acting on the entire surface of said brake lining to retard rotation of each wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1980
    Inventor: Anthony M. Ruggiero
  • Patent number: 4211426
    Abstract: The walker includes a frame structure mounted on rear wheels and forward casters in turn supporting a parallelogram structure lying essentially in a vertical plane. The rear ends of the upper and lower horizontal members making up the parallelogram structure are pivoted to a column extending upwardly from the frame structure and the front ends of these members are pivoted to a generally vertical front member supporting a harness. The arrangement is such that when the active lengths of the upper and lower horizontal members are equal, the front member will move up and down in essentially a vertical direction always remaining parallel to the upwardly extending column. A patient is supported in the harness structure to the front member and a force such as by springs is provided on the parallelogram structure to bias the front member upwardly and thereby relieve at least a part of the weight of a patient in the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1980
    Assignee: Everest & Jennings, Inc.
    Inventor: Wallace M. Motloch
  • Patent number: 4189164
    Abstract: A convertible vehicle for babies consisting of a frame supported upon caster wheels, interchangeable platforms are attached to the frame using compression coil springs, removably secured and interchangeable stroller handle and handlebar attachments connect to upwardly turned ends of front frame sections, side frame sections support stop mount and extension arm attachments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1980
    Inventor: Donald K. Moorer
  • Patent number: 4188966
    Abstract: An adjustable walking support device adapted to restrain an infant or an invalid in an upright position and including a wheeled carriage through which the feet of the supported person descend to contact the ground. The support device itself includes a T-shaped seat bar cantilevered from one edge of a hinged parallelogram, the parallelogram including an internally directed spring for biasing the alignment thereof. Included further in the parallelogram and extending diagonally across the pivots thereof is a hydraulic strut for controlling the rate of descent or ascent of the seat support. Deployed above the seat support, once more in cantilever, is a U-shaped bracket for restraining the torso of the user. This same device may include, in alignment above the bracket and the seat support, a head support fixture, thus providing for control over the body alignment of incapacitated patients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1980
    Inventors: Oakley B. Palmer, Russell M. Lett
  • Patent number: 4184618
    Abstract: A caddy for attaching to a walker having a compartment sub-divided to accommodate various items and suspended from two or more hangers or hooks, securable to a walker frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1977
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1980
    Inventor: Marjorie F. Jones
  • Patent number: 4171847
    Abstract: A foldable baby walker including a body carrier, an annular base frame and three or more support legs collapsibly bridged therebetween is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1979
    Assignee: Tukui Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Motoichi Tukui
  • Patent number: 4171132
    Abstract: An infant walking trainer can be folded by easy operation. The infant walking trainer includes a lower circular frame provided with a plurality of wheels, an upper circular frame confronting the lower circular frame, a lower supporting rod pivotally and rotatably projecting from the lower circular frame, and an upper supporting rod pivotally and rotatably depending from the upper circular frame. A connecting means connects the upper end of the lower supporting rod and the lower end of the upper supporting rod rotatably with each other. Lower and upper engaging grooves and lower and upper engaging portions are provided on the upper end of the lower supporting rod and on the lower end of the upper supporting rod respectively. An engaging member fixes the lower and upper supporting rods collinearly by being engaged with the lower and upper engaging portions, the engaging means being slidable with the lower and upper engaging grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1977
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1979
    Assignee: Kassai Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kenzou Kassai
  • Patent number: 4160553
    Abstract: A unique joint or stem is provided which may convert a conventional baby walker for pre-walking children into one that spins or rotates 360.degree., rocks, sways from side to side, rolls, bounces up and down, tilts from horizontal to vertical, the joint may include control means to limit any one or more of the above motions. The unique joint may be employed in conjunction with many other different type child holding devices (other than walkers) and supports therefor including high chairs, strollers, cribs, carriages, infant seats, swings, bathinettes, rockers, car beds, car seats as well as with various types of adult furniture, such as rocking chairs, recliners, exercise and gym equipment and playground equipment where any of the above-described motions are desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1977
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1979
    Inventor: Henry Fleischer
  • Patent number: 4159110
    Abstract: The walker disclosed herein comprises one equipped with wheels and is hinged at one or two front vertical supports so that it may be easily folded for carrying or for storage. In spite of its collapsible design, the walker is equipped with a locking device to prevent inadvertent folding, the locking device being one which is easily put into or removed from its locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1979
    Inventor: William J. Dodenhoff
  • Patent number: 4140311
    Abstract: A baby walker comprises a travelable frame, a table positioned above the frame for supporting the trunk of an infant, and a plurality of support legs interconnecting and supporting the frame and the table. Each of the support legs is divided into an upper leg portion and a lower leg portion connected together by a joint so as to be foldable into the space between the table and the frame. The joint has a bearing portion and a pair of restraining walls formed on the opposite sides of the bearing portion and bent inward as opposed to each other. One of the leg portions of the support leg has a pair of support portions and pivot portions inwardly projecting from the support portions respectively, the support portions being movable toward and away from each other and biased at all times outward away from each other. The pivot portions are turnably supported by the bearing portion of the joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1977
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1979
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Famy
    Inventor: Mitsuo Murakami
  • Patent number: 4111445
    Abstract: A device for assisting paraplegics in standing and moving about. The device includes a platform mounted on casters so as to be movable and body restraining means adapted to engage the lower and upper back and the upper front of the body of the user. Contoured knee pads for support of the knees and a foot separator are provided to hold nonfunctioning legs of the paraplegic in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1977
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1978
    Inventor: Kenneth Haibeck
  • Patent number: 4093208
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a riding toy and stand apparatus which is convertible among the following configurations: caster-walker, spring suspended riding toy with a stationary stand, and spring suspended rocking toy. The riding toy is encircled by a member formed in a closed curve, lying generally in a horizontal plane. The riding toy is resiliently suspended from spaced locations on the encircling member. Parallel sides of the encircling member are bowed downwardly and function as rockers, adapted to engage the ground when the apparatus is configured as a spring suspended rocking toy. Detachable side frame members are adapted to support the rockers of the encircling member above the ground when the apparatus is configured as a spring suspended riding toy with a stationary stand. Casters are detachably mounted to the side frame members when the apparatus is configured as a caster-walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1977
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1978
    Assignee: Roth American, Inc.
    Inventor: William R. Tomalinas, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4068857
    Abstract: An apparatus with vertical frame with a pedal driven wheel inside said frame for supporting or being driven by legs of an invalid standing on said pedals or seated upon a seat at the upper interior part of the frame and a steering wheel extending forwardly of said frame and additional wheeled means supporting said frame on a substrate upright so that the person can move about or be pulled for being moved while exercising the person legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1975
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1978
    Inventor: Sven Arne Lennart Karlsson