Patent Grant
10639226
Not Applicable
The present invention generally relates to walkers for individuals.
As people grow old it becomes increasingly hard for them to move. Walking, however, is extremely important for elderly people's quality of life. Being able to walk allows elderly people to be more independent in every way from visiting friends, to attending doctors appointments, to simply getting out of bed and going to the bathroom without assistance.
Elderly people suffer from arthritis and lack of balance, meaning they need mobility aids to properly support them while they walk. A mobility aide must also be comfortable enough to use regularly without creating additional health problems or exacerbating joint pain. We found that many of the existing options don't offer sufficient support for walking independently. They are also extremely uncomfortable to use, resulting in wrist strain and backaches. We wanted to create a walker that would comfortably allow elderly people to continue walking later in life.
The prior art discusses various mobility assistance apparatuses, such as walkers.
A person using a walker is usually arched over, places pressure on the handles of the walker resulting in strain on the wrist of the person, and the walker does not generally provide that much support to the person.
The walker is typically used in front of the person.
Most walker wheels are small in diameter and composed of a hard plastic material. Getting over a bump is difficult due to this small wheel diameter and unforgiving plastic material.
Walker wheels don't generate heat.
The present invention is an improved mobility assistant apparatus designed for the elderly. It alleviates wrist and back strain and increases stability by distributing the users weight across his or her forearms onto a pair of armrests. The user stands centered inside of the improved mobility assistant apparatus which provides better stability in all directions, helping to keep users from falling over backwards or to the side as is common with existing walkers. The wheels of the improved mobility assistant apparatus conform to obstacles in the ground, creating a smoother walking experience. The improved mobility assistant apparatus also offers a fold down seat and accessible storage bag.
One aspect of the present invention is a mobility assistance apparatus. The apparatus comprises a first handle at an angle relative to an arm rest, a first arm rest, a second handle, a second arm rest, a first adjustable bar, a second adjustable bar, a main frame comprising a crossbar, a first down bar, a second down bar, a first seat tab, a second seat tab, a first lower tab, a second lower tab, a first caster receiver, and a second caster receiver, a seat component comprising a first arm connected to the first seat tab, a second arm connected to a second seat tab, a cross bar connected to the first arm and the second arm, and a padded seat positioned on the cross bar, a first rear bar connected to the first lower tab, a second rear bar connected to the second lower tab, the second rear bar parallel to the first rear bar, a first front fork connected to the first caster receiver, a second front fork connected to the second caster receiver, a first wheel assembly comprising a hub and a low-impact tire surrounding the hub, the hub connected to first front fork, a second wheel assembly comprising a hub and a low-impact tire surrounding the hub, the hub connected to second front fork, a third wheel assembly comprising a hub and a low-impact tire surrounding the hub, the hub connected to first rear bar, a fourth wheel assembly comprising a hub and a low-impact tire surrounding the hub, the hub connected to second rear bar. A user is positioned within the first rear bar and the second rear bar when using the apparatus. The user's arms rest on the first arm rest and the second arm rest when using the apparatus. The apparatus traverses small obstacles due to the first wheel assembly, the second wheel assembly, the third wheel assembly and the fourth assembly.
Another aspect of the present invention is a mobile apparatus comprising a frame and a plurality of wheel assemblies, each of the wheel assemblies comprising a hub and a low impact tire, the hub connected to the frame.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a wheel for a mobile apparatus. The wheel comprises a hub and a low impact tire.
A height between a first wheel assembly and a first arm rest preferably ranges from 28 inches to 44 inches.
The apparatus preferably comprises at least one of aluminum tubing, cast aluminum or an injection molded polymer.
A length of each of the first rear bar and the second rear bar is preferably approximately 18 inches.
A length of each of the first arm rest and the second arm rest is preferably approximately 11.5 inches.
A thickness of each of the first arm rest and the second arm rest is preferably approximately 0.75 inch.
A length of each of the first handle and the second handle is preferably approximately five inches.
A diameter of each of the first handle and the second handle is preferably approximately 1.5 inches.
A diameter of each of the low impact tire of the first wheel assembly, the second wheel assembly, the tire wheel assembly and the fourth wheel assembly is preferably approximately 7 inches.
A width of each of the low impact tire of the first wheel assembly, the second wheel assembly, the tire wheel assembly and the fourth wheel assembly is preferably approximately 1.5 inches.
Having briefly described the present invention, the above and further objects, features and advantages thereof will be recognized by those skilled in the pertinent art from the following detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
As shown in the
As shown in
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 offers increased stability for elderly people while being comfortable to use. While using the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20, one preferably stands centered in-between the four wheels 50 of the apparatus 20. This is primarily to increase stability, but helps users maneuver the apparatus 20 through tight spaces. A pair of armrests 22 allow users to distribute their weight evenly across their entire forearm resulting in less stress on any single point. No weight is placed on the users' wrists where elderly people usually experience arthritis. The cupped armrests 22 help users balance in all directions, making them less likely to fall over backwards or to the side. The armrests 22 are adjustable, allowing users to place them in the spot that is most comfortable for them. Ergonomic hand grips are used for braking and stabilizing the user.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 uses uniquely designed wheels 50 to absorb obstacles, creating a smoother and uninterrupted walking experience. The wheels 50 preferably have a honeycomb structure, created from medium-density rubber, which allows them to seamlessly conform and pass over obstacles in the ground without hesitation. The flexible wheels 50 contact the ground over a larger area than traditional wheels increasing stability for the user.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 is height adjustable, allowing it to be used by a wide range of people. Uniquely, the armrests 22 can also be adjusted far enough down to act as armrests 22 while the user is seated. This offers more security to those in the seat 28, and provides a stable surface to help the user sit down or stand up.
Most walkers must be gripped at an uncomfortable angle and pushed out in from of the user. Existing walkers do not provide any lateral support, leaving users vulnerable to falling sideways or backwards. Furthermore, to gain support in front of them, users must hunch over and grip current walkers at an awkward angle. When force is applied to the wrists at this angle, as it would be to prevent a fall, it causes wrist pain, especially for those with arthritis. Moreover, these walkers exacerbate bad posture by making the user hunch over to use them. The present invention solved these problems by supporting the users weight with a pair of armrests 22 that allow users to distribute their weight across their entire forearm instead of pin-pointing it on their wrists. While armrest supports do exist in a small number of gate trainers, a medical device used to teach severely disabled people how to walk, no walkers on the market support the users weight with armrests.
The next issue identified in testing existing walkers were the wheels. Existing walkers can be tripped up by small obstacles like rugs, cords, cracks in the ground or doorsills. To solve this, the present invention took inspiration from military airless tires which use flexible structures inside the wheels to absorb and pass over obstacles. The present invention adapted this technology to be used with flexible rubber wheels that are the same size as traditional walker wheels, but can overcome a wide range of obstacles without hesitation. These wheels are vital to offering a smooth walking experience while using the improved mobility assistant apparatus. No other walker on the market has wheels that offer the same benefits as the wheels created for the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 increases stability and comfort for the user. While using the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20, the user stands centered inside of the four wheels 50, increasing stability in all directions. The armrests 22 of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 allow the user to distribute their weight throughout their forearms making it more comfortable for the user to place more weight on the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 which in turn helps the user feel more balanced. The armrests 22 also encourage better posture. The wheels 50 created for the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 absorb obstacles without hesitation making the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 much safer and more comfortable to use.
Studies show that active aging helps elderly people live a healthier life by exercising regularly as they age. Walking is a highly effective form of exercise and the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 allows elderly people to continue walking much later in life. Walking gives elderly people more independence as they can go out to visit friends and family, partake in community events, or simply get out of bed and go to the bathroom by themselves. Research shows that people who go outside every day are much happier and people who are more independent feel better about themselves. The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 is able to help elderly people be healthier, be more involved, and be more independent.
Other embodiments of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 shown in
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably has minimal adjustability which makes for a more consumer friendly product since it is imperative that the walker's frame maintains correct geometry.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 adjusts for various height users.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably includes low profile armrests 22 that are fixed in place.
This low profile armrests 22 allow the user to place their arm where it is most comfortable, instead of having to fit into a certain spot.
The low profile armrests 22 also makes it easier for users to interact with their surroundings, i.e. picking something off of a shelf at the store.
The low profile armrests 22 are preferably fixed at a spot that has been tested to be comfortable for a wide range of people and doesn't require the user to attempt multiple adjustment points.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably includes an ergonomically positioned handgrip.
In one embodiment, the handgrip is turned gently towards the center of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20.
The handgrips are preferably ergonomically sculpted to be comfortable for a wide range of users, including those with arthritis.
Each armrest 22 is preferably symmetrical forward/back for use in standing or seated position without need to reverse the armrest 22. The armrests 22 are preferably of a minimal thickness height-wise to reduce visual weight from the profile. A dip between armrest and hand grip to allow free motion for wrist. The hand grips are preferably tilted forward for ergonomics. The hand grips may also tilt toward the center of the device for ergonomics. The armrests 22 are height adjustable. The hand grips may flip forward for the walker to temporarily be used as a wheel-chair like device. A brake lever may be integrated into the hand grip with a trigger like mechanism.
Each armrest 22 preferably has a lower area between the armrest 22 and handgrip so that the users wrist bone doesn't contact the armrest 22.
The lowest crossmember of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably provides enough clearance to allow users to walk freely without hurting his or her legs by kicking the frame.
The upper crossmember of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably extends away from the frame giving the user more space to walk comfortably.
The upper crossmember of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 is preferably ergonomically formed and may be padded to create a comfortable backrest when the user is seated.
Each rear leg of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 may be fixed in length.
Each rear leg preferably extends away from the frame at an angle close to the ground. This is necessary for collapsibility and is more aesthetically pleasing.
Each rear leg preferably collapses upwards.
This allows for a very compact overall mobility assistant apparatus 20 when placed in the collapsed (folded) position, as shown in
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably uses a unique push-button lock mechanism for folding, which is safer and easier for the user to actuate. It is also more aesthetically pleasing.
The frame of the mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably extends forward to support its front caster, which was tested and proven to makes it easier for the user to walk without tripping over the wheels 50. The extended front caster also provides more forward stability for the mobility assistant apparatus 20.
The top cross member of the frame preferably extends forward to act as the backrest for the user. The crossmember may be padded for the user's comfort. The lower portion of the frame is open to allow for free motion of the user's legs when walking. The seat 28 preferably acts as the secondary crossmember. In one instance, a secondary crossmember is located near where the seat pivots. The frame extends forward near the bottom in order for the front casters to be located farther from the user's feet. The frame allows the user to stand in an area between or forward of the rear wheels. The frame may be constructed a composite material. The frame may be constructed in aluminum, steel or a similar material.
As shown in
The seat 28 may consist of a structural frame and expanded mesh, similar to some office chairs, for maximum comfort. The seat 28 may be constructed from stretch-mesh which reduces lower back-pain common in elderly users. The stretch mesh also reduces the visual weight of the mobility assistance apparatus 20. The seat may be constructed in standard upholstery methods common on walkers, while still mounted to the unique seat brackets.
The seat height, width, and depth have been extensively tested and are thoughtfully positioned.
The seat 28 may telescope in depth for more comfortable ergonomics.
Multidirectional armrests 22, can be used while in the seated position, without the need to twist the armrest 180 degrees.
The rear legs of the mobility assistance apparatus 20 function to mount the rear wheels 50. The apparatus 20 preferably has legs that extend rearward from the frame at an angle relative to the ground. The rear legs have a locking pivot mount which allows them to pivot upward and rest in-line with the frame for compact storage. The rear wheels 50 are mounted outside of the rear legs so that they don't interfere with the frame when the rear legs are in the stowed position. A braking system will preferably mount to the rear legs.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably includes wheels 50 with low impact hexagonal non-pneumatic-tires.
Alternatively, the mobility assistant apparatus 20 uses standard wheels.
The improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 may have an accessory mount on its upper crossmember. This allows users to purchase a wide range of accessories for their needs including a, cupholder, basket, bag, phone mount, oxygen tank mount, etc.
The wheels 50 of the improved mobility assistant apparatus 20 preferably have tires with inner cores that consist of a hexagonal membrane that extends parallel to the axel of the tire and extends out of each side of the wheel such that it is visible.
The tire's inner core flexes perpendicularly to the axle of the wheel which is better for absorbing impact.
The tire may be bonded to the rim using an adhesive.
The tire may use the natural elastomeric tension in the wheel to attach to the rim.
The entire tire may be made of a single material.
The entire tire may be made using co-molding or over-molding to take advantage of properties of various polymers.
The tire preferably relies on compression between the footprint of the tire and the hub to absorb shock from small obstacles (such as cracks in the ground, door sills, cords, rugs, etc).
In one case, the wheel is created for light duty consumer applications.
It may be a narrow wheel designed for direct replacement on light-duty equipment like a walker, suitcases, strollers, yard equipment, shopping carts, etc.
The wheel may be designed for custom applications on light-duty equipment.
In one embodiment, increasing or varying wall-thickness in web of non-pneumatic tire, allows for variable compression rate in tire.
The tire may have an arced crown on wheel for low rolling resistance under low force, increases compression in center of wheel (important for narrow applications), curved edges reduce wear on the tire, curved edges make turning easier.
The wheel may have a molded in tread pattern.
The tire may have increased compression in the center of the wheel draft on mold, creates a thicker inner cross-section of the tire, leading to increased compression ratio in center of wheel, arced crown on wheel focuses forces on center of the tire.
In another embodiment, a thicker outer ‘wear’ layer is molded into tire. In one embodiment, this could be co-molded for increased wear resistance and decreased rolling resistance.
The inner web of each tire preferably consists of polygonal reliefs offset from each other over multiple layers in a radially symmetric pattern to create a web which naturally compresses to absorb shock from obstacles.
From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the pertinent art will recognize the meritorious advancement of this invention and will readily understand that while the present invention has been described in association with a preferred embodiment thereof, and other embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, numerous changes modification and substitutions of equivalents may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention which is intended to be unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in the following appended claim. Therefore, the embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined in the following appended claims.
The Present Application claim priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/462,878, filed on Feb. 23, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/598,395, filed on Dec. 13, 2017, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.
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