Occupant Propelled Support Frame Having Movement Facilitating Feature For Foot Travel Patents (Class 482/66)
  • Publication number: 20090163328
    Abstract: A curved guide mechanism includes a guide unit having an arcuate guide track, and a movable body movably engaged with the guide track via a plurality of engagement elements. The guide track is constituted by a guide groove formed in the guide unit. The movable body is provided with at least three engagement elements including inner engagement elements movably engaged with an inner peripheral rail portion formed on the inner peripheral side of the guide groove, and an outer engagement element movably engaged with an outer peripheral rail portion formed on the outer peripheral side of the guide groove. The engagement elements are spaced apart from one another in a longitudinal direction of the guide groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yutaka Hiki
  • Patent number: 7507162
    Abstract: Various embodiments are directed to a children's exercise and activity apparatus. The apparatus includes an activity table, a seat, a connecting beam for connecting the seat to the activity table, and one or more legs connected to and depending downwardly from the seat to the floor to support the seat and prevent the seat from tipping over when a child is supported therein. The seat has a pair of leg openings that allow the child to touch the floor with its legs, and the connecting beam is rotatably connected to the activity table so that the child in the seat can travel in an orbital path around the activity table. In addition, the angular rotation of the seat may be limited to prevent the child from rotating the seat to a point at which the child could walk along the floor and move the apparatus along with the child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Jackson, Jeffrey S. Tadin, Stephen R. Burns, Jacob M. Sclare, James E. Cartabiano
  • Publication number: 20090062082
    Abstract: A stationary baby walker including a slip resistant mat upon which a baby may practice walking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Angela Spencer-Kramer
  • Patent number: 7485073
    Abstract: A muscle exerciser having a first pulley mounted on a motor shaft of a motor, a second pulley mounted on a pulley shaft and connected to the first pulley through a transmission belt, two transmission wheels respectively connected two ends of the pulley shaft, two transmission links connected to the wheels, and two sliding seats connected to the links. The transmission wheels are respectively connected to the transmission links oppositely such that the two sliding seats are moved close to or away from each other along sliding tracks when the wheels are rotated. Thus, the quick sliding of the sliders strengthens the muscle of the hands/feet placed on the sliding seats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Horng-Jiun Chang
  • Publication number: 20090014042
    Abstract: A walk assistance device capable of transmitting a force generated by a leg link to a user's trunk via a load transfer portion, wherein the leg link includes an upper first link portion connected to the load transfer portion via a first joint portion, a lower second link portion connected to a foot attachment portion via a second joint portion, a middle third joint portion connecting the first link portion to the second link portion such that a distance between the first joint portion and the second joint portion is variable, and a driving source that drives the third joint portion. The moment of inertia around the first joint portion of the leg link is reduced to decrease a load on the user's leg in walking. The driving source is disposed above the third joint portion of the first link portion so that the center-of-gravity of the entire leg link is located above the third joint portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Ashihara, Yasushi Ikeuchi, Hiroshi Kudoh, Yutaka Hiki, Tatsuya Noda
  • Publication number: 20080318739
    Abstract: A walking assistance device having a leg link connected to a load transfer portion via a first joint and to a foot attachment portion via a second joint, and having an intermediate third joint moving such that a distance between the first joint and the second joint is variable; a drive source for the third joint; and a battery for the drive source. When in an upstanding position, force in the forward-backward direction is prevented from acting on the load transfer portion to enhance stability. Also, a moment of inertia of the leg link is decreased to curtail a load applied to the leg of the user. The drive source and the battery are located at positions higher than the third joint, and when the user is in an upstanding position, a plane passing through the second joint lies between the drive source and the battery.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Ashihara, Yutaka Hiki, Hiroshi Kudoh, Tatsuya Noda, Yasushi Ikeuchi
  • Patent number: 7468023
    Abstract: A suspension system for walk training in physical therapy is disclosed to include a framework formed of a top rail and two wheeled posts supporting the top rail, a suspension mechanism, which has a suspension rod suspending from the top rail by a suspension rope for securing a harness for a patient, a spring force control unit fixedly mounted in the framework for stretching the suspension rope and adjusting the stretch force to the suspension rope, an elevation adjustment unit fixedly mounted in the framework for adjusting the elevation of the suspension rod, and a suspension force measurement unit for measuring the pull force of the suspension rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R & D Center
    Inventors: Hung-Sheng Wu, Chun-Ho Chen, Chih-Hun Hsu
  • Publication number: 20080312049
    Abstract: A control device and a control program of a walking assisting device, wherein a desired assist ratio, which is a desired value of the ratio of a force to be supplied by a walking assisting device (1) in a total tread force of a user (A) relative to the total tread forces is set, the shares of a lifting force to be applied to the user (A) from a seating part (2) which are to be borne by the leg links (3L, 3R) are determined from the desire assist ratio and the tread forces of the legs of the user (A) measured on the basis of outputs of force sensors (38, 38, 39, 39), and actuators (27, 27) of the leg links (3L, 3R) are controlled such that the determined shares of the lifting force are generated from the leg links (3L, 3R).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2006
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Ido, Yasushi Ikeuchi
  • Publication number: 20080234113
    Abstract: A method for gait rehabilitation, comprising, identifying at least one deficient gait element; exercising said deficient gait element individually using a rehabilitation apparatus; and exercising said deficient gait element in concert with at least one other gait element using said rehabilitation apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Motorika, Inc.
    Inventor: Omer Einav
  • Patent number: 7422550
    Abstract: The present invention is a gait therapy device which facilitates the lower extremities particularly the action of flexion at the hip and knee to aid a patient in assisted ambulation, as well as knee, foot and ankle action. The gait trainer apparatus comprises: (a) a moveable frame adapted to move along the ground; (b) at least one motion responsive wheel attached to the frame and adapted to contact the ground and to turn as the frame moves along the ground, and at least one wheel having an offset motion portion having a right side and left side; (c) a left foot attachment, the left foot attachment connected to the left side of the offset motion portion by a flexible or elastic member; and (d) a right foot attachment, the right foot attachment connected to the right side of the offset motion portion by a flexible or elastic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventors: Michelle Pinero, Andrea Roth
  • Publication number: 20080156363
    Abstract: A walking aid apparatus comprising a sitting member which a user sits astride and leg links each coupled to a connection provided on the undersurface of the sitting member in such a way as to be free to swing in the forward/backward direction, which improves the stability of the sitting member. The connection is adapted in such a way that a forward/backward swinging fulcrum of the leg links is located above the sitting member. More specifically, the connection is provided with an arc-shaped guide track longitudinal in the forward/backward direction and having the center of curvature above the sitting member, so that each of the leg links swings along the guide track in the forward/backward direction. If the leg links are allowed to swing freely also in the lateral direction, preferably the lateral swinging fulcrum of the leg links is also located above the sitting member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasushi Ikeuchi, Tatsuya Noda, Jun Ashihara, Yutaka Hiki
  • Patent number: 7344481
    Abstract: The present invention relates to exercise apparatuses. In more particular the present invention relates to a self-adjusting treadmill having a moveable console and a self-adjusting cushioning assembly. According to one aspect of the present invention, the moveable console and the self-adjusting cushioning assembly of the treadmill automatically adjust based on user parameters. The user parameters can be input by the user or automatically detected when the user steps on the treadmill by the movable console and/or the cushioning mechanisms. In one embodiment, when the user stands on the treadmill, the console detects the height of the user and is automatically raised or lowered to tailor the positioning of the console relative to the height of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 7338414
    Abstract: An improved apparatus to enable a user to simulate skating, hereafter referred to as a skating machine, wherein the improvement involves the incorporation of a tension means connected at one end to the location of the intersection of a pedal connector bar and a crank to prevent the skating machine from locking or freezing when the pedals are at their most sideways positions. The crank is connected at its opposite end to a resistance means and the pedal connector bar is connected at its opposite end to a portion of a pedal assembly. The tension means is connected at its opposite end to a location on the skating machine frame. The crank and pedal connector bar are aligned in an almost horizontal 180 degree position when the pedals are at their extreme left or right position and the tension means prevents the machine from locking in this position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Hupa International, Inc.
    Inventor: Bob Hsiung
  • Patent number: 7326152
    Abstract: An infant walker that provides a safe and confined mechanism in which a child may effectively development the requisite stability and/or balance for proper walking skills and associated motor coordination, and wherein the infant walker is aesthetically pleasing to promote eager utilization of the walker by a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Donald K. Gates
  • Patent number: 7287767
    Abstract: A walking aid apparatus includes a pair of rods each having a first end and a second end. A central member is attached to the second ends. A pole is attached to the central member. A rear wheel is rotatably coupled to the pole. A sleeve is attached to each of the first ends. A post extends through the sleeve and is selectively rotated with respect to the sleeve. The post has an upper end positioned above the sleeve and a lower end positioned below the sleeve. A pair of legs is attached to an outer surface of the post below the sleeve. Each of the legs extends downward below the lower end. An axle is attached to the legs. Each of a pair of front wheels is rotatably attached to the axle. A leg receiving member is attached to and extends upwardly from the rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Gomes, Mason Gomes
  • Patent number: 7247100
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a children's exercise and activity apparatus for providing cognitive development activities for small children and exercise functionality. The apparatus includes an activity table adapted for receiving one or more children's activity items, a seat for supporting a child above the floor, a connecting beam for connecting the seat to the activity table, and one or more legs connected to and depending downwardly from the seat to the floor to support the seat and prevent the seat from tipping over when a child is supported therein. The seat has a pair of leg openings that allow the child to touch the floor with its legs, and the connecting beam is rotatably connected to the activity table so that the child in the seat can travel in an orbital path around the activity table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Kids II, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter D. Jackson, Jeffrey S. Tadin, Stephen R. Burns, Jacob M. Sclare, James E. Cartabiano
  • Patent number: 7226396
    Abstract: A rehabilitation and fitness trainer apparatus includes a handle frame of generally U-shaped configuration, with two telescopic members attached at an angle to the base of the U-shaped handle portion, a generally U-shaped base frame including an elongated cross bar and two side members which extend rearwardly and at an outwardly extending angle from the elongated cross bar, and with the cross bar including a pair of elongated members that extend generally upwardly and rearwardly for cooperating and telescopingly engaging the pair of telescopic members extending from the handle frame. A locking device is provided for vertically adjusting and maintaining the vertical distance between the handle frame and the base frame in order to accommodate a wide variety of users of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Balance Gym LLC
    Inventors: Frederick Buechel, Jr., Colin Hoobler
  • Patent number: 7153242
    Abstract: The gait-locomotor apparatus of the present invention is a device for overcoming impeded locomotion in humans and is aimed at enabling people with handicapped lower limbs to walk. The gait-locomotor apparatus that is wore on a disabled user comprises a brace having a plurality of jointed segments that are adapted to fit the lower body of the disabled user and propulsion means that is adapted to provide relative movement between the plurality of jointed segments. The gait-locomotor apparatus further comprises at least one sensor adapted to monitor the angular position of at least one of the plurality of jointed segments and a control unit that is adapted to supervise the propulsion means and to receive feedback information from the sensors so as to facilitate the brace to perform walking patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Amit Goffer
  • Patent number: 7097599
    Abstract: An infant walker that provides a safe and confined mechanism in which a child may effectively development the requisite stability and/or balance for proper walking skills and associated motor coordination, and wherein the infant walker is aesthetically pleasing to promote eager utilization of the walker by a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Donald K. Gates
  • Patent number: 7004892
    Abstract: A training device for a gliding sport athlete trains the athlete to have the proper knee bend for gliding sports such as ice skating, inline skating, skiing, etc. The device includes a belt and a pair of foot attachments adapted to be fastened to a front portion of the respective feet or footwear of the athlete. One end of each pair of cords is connected to the belt at a position between the front portion and a respective side portion, and another end connected to one of the foot attachments. Each of the cords has an unstretched length less than a length between the athlete's waist and feet, to apply a force to urge the athlete's knee into a bent position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Wendy G. Marco
  • Patent number: 6899660
    Abstract: A walker particularly suitable for rehabilitation of a patient's legs includes a base provided with casters, a pair of handlebars, and a suspension frame for holding a safety belt. A leg separator is height-adjustably connected to the base to locate between and separate apart the patient's two legs, so that a cerebral palsied patient may bear inner sides of two legs against two lateral sides of the leg separator during practicing walking. Direction control members adapted to limit the casters to rotate forward and backward only are provided on the base to effectively enable the cerebral palsied patient to practice walking straightly forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Dynamic Healthtech Inc.
    Inventors: Kao Chin Chin, Wang Jen Cheng, Tin Cheng Shing
  • Patent number: 6848696
    Abstract: A cart for an injured person is provided. The cart includes a frame, a leg support member coupled to the frame, and a plurality of wheels coupled to the frame. The plurality of wheels is moveable between a first asymmetrical position relative to the frame and a second asymmetrical position relative to the frame, thereby accommodating a person having a non-ambulatory lower left leg or a non-ambulatory lower right leg, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Michael S. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040192516
    Abstract: A rehabilitation and fitness trainer apparatus includes a handle frame of generally U-shaped configuration, with two telescopic members attached at an angle to the base of the U-shaped handle portion, a generally U-shaped base frame including an elongated cross bar and two side members which extend rearwardly and at an outwardly extending angle from the elongated cross bar, and with the cross bar including a pair of elongated members that extend generally upwardly and rearwardly for cooperating and telescopingly engaging the pair of telescopic members extending from the handle frame. A locking device is provided for vertically adjusting and maintaining the vertical distance between the handle frame and the base frame in order to accommodate a wide variety of users of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Applicant: Balance Gym LLC
    Inventors: Frederick Buechel, Colin Hoobler
  • Patent number: 6783555
    Abstract: A unilateral or bilateral orthotic or prosthetic device that facilitates reciprocating ambulation by a human user is described. The reciprocating gait orthosis includes a torso vest securely positionable around the torso of the user, at least one torso joint coupled to the torso vest such that the torso joint is approximately adjacent to the user's natural waist, and at least one hip member that couples the torso joint and torso vest to a conventional leg support assembly at the hip joint approximately adjacent the user's natural hip joint. The leg support assembly is adapted to couple to the user's leg or to replace the human user's missing leg to provide the user stable support when the user is in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventors: Mark R. Kuhn, Joshua A. Gilliland
  • Patent number: 6742523
    Abstract: An ambulator for assisting an individual in walking or standing includes a three-sided base disposed in close proximity to a support surface and a three-sided support structure that is mounted to the base by a pair of transversely spaced apart support posts. The support posts are telescopically constructed so that the support structure is adjustable to the comfort of the individual. The individual is fitted with a harness and the harness is secured to the support structure by a plurality of straps. The harness and a brake for the ambulator ensures that the individual cannot fall even when the individual is supported only by the ambulator and the harness. The harness also provides a seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: David Edward Dubats
  • Patent number: 6743156
    Abstract: A walker apparatus having a frame configured to support a user above a floor thereunder and an upper body support pivotably coupled to the frame to move between a use position and a storage position is shown. The upper body support is adapted to support the forearms of a user and includes a first pair of grip handles. A second pair of grip handles is coupled to the frame spaced apart from the first pair of grip handles. The walker apparatus has a patient measurement device coupled to the frame to measure a vital sign of the user and indicate the measurement on a display. An IV support is coupled to the frame to support a medical device. A base module is configured to hold personal belongings or medical devices. The frame includes upright segments extending from the base module. A seat has a frame member and a seat member. The frame member has a back segment and a seat segment coupled to the back segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: William L. Jacques, II, Michael Cerimele, Ken Meyer, John Sagel, Kenneth L. Kramer, John P. Biondo, Gregory W. Branson, John W. Koenig
  • Patent number: 6692417
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that includes a cross brace having a first end and an opposing second end, first and second side frames pivotally attached to the opposite ends of the cross brace, a bungee cord with handle having opposite ends received in openings in the bottom horizontal braces of the side frames, and at least four rollers secured to the front vertical supports of the side frames and. The cross brace has a pair of spaced apart rigid mid bars joined to and extending perpendicularly downward from the cross brace. Each side frame has a top horizontal brace support acting as a handle bar, a bottom horizontal brace support too acting as handle having an opening defined therethrough, a front vertical support linking the top horizontal brace support to the bottom horizontal brace support, and a rear vertical support linking the front vertical support to the bottom horizontal brace support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Travis Burrell
  • Patent number: 6666796
    Abstract: Apparatus to assist human walking, incorporating in combination first and second longitudinally extending strut members that are relatively movable, longitudinally, and adapted to transmit body associated loading; the first strut member or members operatively connected to a rack and/or to the user's body; the second strut member or members slaved, i.e. operatively connected to the user's foot or feet, ankles or shoes, to move therewith; and a control that responds to step-by-step treading to control relative movement of the strut members. Such loading is controllably transferred back and forth between left and right pairs of strut members, in response to treading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Aerovironment, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul B. MacCready, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6634660
    Abstract: A cart for an injured person is provided. The cart includes a frame, a leg support member coupled to the frame, and a plurality of wheels coupled to the frame. The plurality of wheels is moveable between a first asymmetrical position relative to the frame and a second asymmetrical position relative to the frame, thereby accommodating a person having a non-ambulatory lower left leg or a non-ambulatory lower right leg, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventor: Michael S. Miller
  • Patent number: 6634995
    Abstract: An exercise device for stretching the lower back and leg muscles of a user includes a flexible footrest and a handle device. The handle device is designed to be grasped by the hands of a user and the cable is attached, at one end, to a footrest or fixed location. The other end of the cable is engaged by a rotatable member in the handle device; and a pawl and ratchet mechanism in the handle device rotates the rotatable member to draw the cable member into the device. A reciprocating lever member is operated by the user, grasping the handle member to effect incremental stepwise rotation of the rotatable member through the pawl and ratchet mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Stretch Power LLC
    Inventor: Michael S. Reed
  • Publication number: 20030148858
    Abstract: A formed tubular frame which has a pair of generally U-shaped members joined at an acute angle such that a lower of the members engages the skating or support surface while the upper member extends forwardly and upwardly to define a handle for the user. The U-shaped members define an open area in which a user can stand and manipulate their legs for skating or otherwise moving while placing their center of gravity well within the supporting frame to provide lateral and fore and aft support and allow the user to place weight on the device as necessary to assist in stabilizing their balance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Steven D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6537077
    Abstract: Featured is a device and a method using such a device for training skaters, particularly ice skaters. According to the method for training a skater there is provided a support frame and a harness that is secured to the support frame. The skater is secured to the support frame by means of the harness so that the point of attachment between the support frame and the harness is a distance above the head of the skater. Further the support frame being provided is configured and arranged so as to extend about and from the skater when the skater is secured to the support frame. The support frame is moved, responsive to a skating motion of the skater, with respect to a surface upon which the skater is skating. In more particular embodiments, the support frame includes a plurality or more of support members that are arranged so as to form a structure about the skater to which is secured the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6527676
    Abstract: In a fitness machine with a carriage (2) which is mounted in a movable manner on a carrier element (1) and is intended for at least one person, the carriage (2) can be made to move in a reciprocating manner on the carrier element (1) by means of at least one actuating element (7.1, 7.2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventors: Moritz Frick, Andreas Dittmar
  • Patent number: 6503176
    Abstract: A walker device (20) includes a frame assembly (30), which supports the user during operation and carries the other assemblies discussed below. Left and right front wheel assemblies (50) include a pivoting fork supporting a wheel, thereby allowing directional control over the walker during use. Left and right rear wheel assemblies (70) are fixed-direction. A brake assembly (90) allows the user to apply a frictional brake element to the both rear wheels, and prevents unwanted movement by the walker. A support sling assembly (190) carries some or all of the user's weight. Left and right lift cylinder assemblies (150), (170) lift and lower the support sling assembly to the desired elevation during use. A compressed air assembly (110) provides power to the lift cylinder assemblies. A valve assembly (130) provides independent control over both lift cylinder assemblies, to provide extra help to one side, if needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: James P. Kuntz
  • Patent number: 6494815
    Abstract: A walker for a toddler or infant is disclosed. The walker has a base and a seat operatively coupled to the base. It also includes a plurality of rollers for supporting the base on a walking surface such as a floor. The walker also includes a brake which is positioned to constantly apply friction to at least one of the rollers to thereby inhibit the travel speed of the walker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Welsh, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020187880
    Abstract: A recreational device having a large rotatable outer wheel, a frame disposed internally within the wheel and about which the wheel is rotatable, a pivotable foot platform attached to the frame, and a tail wheel assembly disposed aft of the large wheel and coupled to the platform. In use a rider stands on the platform, preferably in a sideways stance, and grasps hand grips on the frame members and steers the wheel by applying torque to the frame. The tail wheel assembly is coupled to the foot platform by pulleys and cable such that pivoting of the platform causes pivoting of the tail wheel assembly to aid in steering the device. A hand brake can be provided to control the speed of rotation of the wheel about the frame. A nose wheel assembly can be provided having a nose wheel forward of the large wheel and which can engage the ground during braking to aid in stable operation. The tail assembly can be folded for ease of storage and transport.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Robert N. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6425842
    Abstract: A child activity device for entertaining and promoting activity in a child is disclosed. The child activity device is configurable between a use and storage position and may also include a frame providing bouncing motion for a child. The activity device includes a support frame extending vertically upwards from a lower end proximate to a support surface and terminating at an upper end, a supporting portion, and may further include a seat, coupled to the supporting portion, that is rotatable about a first axis relative to the support frame to allow a child placed in the seat to rotate about the first axis. A coupling assembly is also disclosed. The coupling assembly secures the supporting portion to the support frame upper end and permits rotation of the supporting portion about a second axis for configuring the seat and supporting portion in a storage position. An activity device with foldable support legs is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Carl M. Stern, Andrew M. Weiman, Timothy J. Snyder, Brian S. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20020082148
    Abstract: A walker device (20) includes a frame assembly (30), which supports the user during operation and carries the other assemblies discussed below. Left and right front wheel assemblies (50) include a pivoting fork supporting a wheel, thereby allowing directional control over the walker during use. Left and right rear wheel assemblies (70) are fixed-direction. A brake assembly (90) allows the user to apply a frictional brake element to the both rear wheels, and prevents unwanted movement by the walker. A support sling assembly (190) carries some or all of the user's weight. Left and right lift cylinder assemblies (150), (170) lift and lower the support sling assembly to the desired elevation during use. A compressed air assembly (110) provides power to the lift cylinder assemblies. A valve assembly (130) provides independent control over both lift cylinder assemblies, to provide extra help to one side, if needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: James P. Kuntz
  • Publication number: 20020010056
    Abstract: An apparatus adapted for coupling between an attendant positioned either behind or in front of a patient on an exercise assembly such as a treadmill for rehabilitation of a functionally impaired leg of the patient such as one suffering from paralysis. The apparatus comprises a leg appliance secured to a patpatient'sg, with a leg bracket adjacent to the knee. A leg brace secured to an attendant's leg also includes a bracket adjacent to the attattendant'see. At least one connecting member provides coupling from the leg bracket to the bracket of the leg brace to transmit motion from an attendant's leg to a patient's leg using forces acting from the leg brace to the leg appliance through the connecting member. An ankle appliance having an upper extension and a lower extension proximate the ankle is attached to a patient's foot and an ankle brace is similarly attached to an attendant's foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: John T. Borsheim
  • Patent number: 6318392
    Abstract: A supportive walker includes a front frame, a rear frame with a connection bar connected thereto and a pair of retaining frames connected to the front frame so that the connection bar extends through the two passages of the two retaining frames. A safety device has an engaging portion and an urging device which is biased between the retaining frame and the engaging portion. The engaging portion is releasably engaged with the connection bar by operating the urging device. Therefore, the front frame and the rear frame are expanded or folded securely when the urging device is released. The connection bar of the rear frame is movable in the passages of the retaining frames when the urging device is pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: Scott Chen
  • Publication number: 20010004623
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame having a pair of crank arms pivotally supported thereupon. Each crank arms engages a drive link, and each drive link engages a guide member. A foot link is pivotally connected to each guide member, and a control link pivotally connects each foot link to a drive link. In operation, the drive links and crank arms cooperate to cause the reciprocal motion of the guide members, and the control link operates to vary the angle between each foot link and its associate guide member as that guide member reciprocates. The apparatus provides a very natural running and stepping action for a user who is positioned on the foot links.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 21, 2001
    Inventor: Larry Miller
  • Patent number: 6248048
    Abstract: A portable folding exercise apparatus has left and right side frames pivotably attached to a cross brace. Handgrips on the side frames are useful for performing traditional dips and knee raises, with the apparatus in an upright position. A cross brace has a pair of parallel handgrips useful for performing close parallel regular push-ups, tricep dips, abdominal crunches, arm curls, hammer curls, and shoulder presses. The exercise apparatus is preferably formed of welded steel tubing, and is sufficiently rigid to resist excessive bending or deflection during use, even under extreme loads generated by heavy users. Quick release pins lock the side frames into an open position for use and may lock the side frames into a closed position for transport or storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Inventors: Robert Zuckerman, Travis Burrell
  • Publication number: 20010001305
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical motion of a foot supporting member. A foot supporting linkage is movably connected between a rocker and a crank in such a manner that the foot supporting member moves through a range of motion greater in length than the distance between the points of connection to the crank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: May 17, 2001
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Publication number: 20010001304
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a force receiving member movable relative to a frame. A roller is rotatably mounted on a first crank and supports a rearward portion of the force receiving member. A link is rotatably interconnected between a second crank and an intermediate portion of the force receiving member. The cranks, the roller, and the link cooperate with the force receiving member to move the latter in a desired path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Publication date: May 17, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph D. Maresh, Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Patent number: 6179755
    Abstract: An extender unit for an infant walker in which the unit is adapted to extend laterally outwardly away from the walker base. The unit is formed of a plurality of extender segments which can be releasably locked to each other and to the walker base by wheel inserts having one-way locks. Wheel assemblies are inserted into the wheel posts on the extender unit. The extender segments, wheel posts, and wheel assemblies can be shipped separate from the infant walker and assembled to the walker at a use site. The walker device cannot be used by an infant without the extender unit because all wheel assemblies are mounted in the extender unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Kolcraft Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Welsh, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6165084
    Abstract: A hockey training device comprising a frame with skate-like and hockey stick-like members attached thereto, simulating an opposing player. This training device is intended to assist the novice hockey player in developing the skills associated with maneuvering the hockey puck around and/or through an opponent, and forces the novice to concentrate on the triangle presented by the skates and hockey stick of the opponent. The device consists of a frame supporting two downwardly disposed legs having skate-like elements attached, and a third leg having a stick-like element attached. The skate-like elements and stick-like elements have coplanar lower edges so that the entire device may be placed on the ice, resting on these edges. The frame may be weighted, and drag-inducing spikes may be incorporated into the skate-like elements to affect the motion of the device on the ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Rene A. Cranston
  • Patent number: 6139475
    Abstract: An ambulatory aid device allowing self ambulation for impaired persons having reduced weight bearing capabilities. A wheeled framework provides overhead support by cables that are pulleyed and terminate on a locking winch. A harness comprising a torso harness and leg bindings for both legs is provided to which the cables are readily hooked and unhooked. An impaired person is lifted from a seated or reclining position by suiting him in the harness, attaching the cables and cranking the winch until he is in a substantially upright position with his feet on the ground, his body weight being at least partially supported by the harness and cable arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventors: Edward W. Bessler, Robert J. Roseberry
  • Patent number: 6135928
    Abstract: An input system for a virtual reality application that allows for natural human locomotion, and method of using the same, consists of a sphere having a center and an exterior surface and a base support supporting the sphere on the base support. A low friction interface is formed between the base support and a portion of the exterior surface of the sphere. The low friction interface generally conforms to the portion of the exterior surface of the sphere and permits rotation of the sphere about the center of the sphere relative to the base support. A user support is rigidly secured above the sphere and supports a user on the exterior surface of the sphere and holds a center of mass of the user on a vertical axis passing through the sphere. And one or more sensors are coupled to the base support for detecting and measuring a movement of the sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony Butterfield
  • Patent number: 6056673
    Abstract: Disclosed is walking aid which provides mobility to an injured, elderly or physically challenged persons which leaves the hands free to hold, reach for or carry items. The walking aid of the present invention allows the user to stand upright and operates with minimal usage of the user's legs and also provides a stable surface on which a user may rest. Optionally, the walking aid of the present invention may be equipped with accessory items such as aids to reach articles which have fallen on the floor, and is readily collapsible for transportation and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Marco T. Arrecis
  • Patent number: 6044768
    Abstract: A support for aiding a person, robot or material-moving member in a gravity free environment. The support comprises a platform having slots therein with releasable securing means disposed on either side thereof which cooperate with a wheeled member disposed in the slot having a shoe connected thereto with cooperating means engaging the releasable securing means to permit the person, robot or the like wearing the shoes to traverse the support in a safe, regulated manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Tibor Czinki