FIELD
The present disclosure relates to personal aides, and more particularly, to personal aides for putting on undergarments, personal care products, or other products having a waistband.
BACKGROUND
Various types of garments, undergarments, and personal care products include a waistband. For example, many adults require personal care products resembling traditional child diapers, incontinence pads, absorbent underwear, and the like. These products can be necessary for those limited by certain conditions, such as incontinence, mobility impairment, severe diarrhea, or dementia, which may also impose challenges for an individual attempting to put on and take off the product without assistance.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect, methods of putting an undergarment onto an individual are provided. The methods may include affixing the undergarment to a personal aide device that includes a frame. The method may also include positioning the frame of the personal aide device up and around the ankles of the individual. The method may also include releasing the personal aide device from the undergarment when the personal aide device is at a satisfactory position on the individual. Optionally, the method also includes positioning the undergarment on the individual, and removing the personal aide device from the individual.
In various embodiments, the frame is a rigid ring-shaped frame. The frame may alternatively include a non-rigid loop. The frame may include a first end and a second end. The first end may include one or more holes, and the second end may include one or more fasteners. The one or more holes may also be configured to secure the one or more fasteners. The frame may thereby be configured to be adjusted between open and closed positions by engaging the one or more holes with the one or more fasteners.
In some exemplary embodiments where the frame includes a first end and a second end, the first end includes a first adhesive, and the second end includes a second adhesive. The first adhesive may be configured to secure the second adhesive. The frame may thereby be configured to be adjusted between open and closed positions by engaging the first adhesive with the second adhesive.
The frame may also include a cord. The cord may be connected to the frame at first and second opposing locations on the frame. The cord may be configured to be pulled toward an individual to assist with achieving the satisfactory position of the personal aide device. The cord may also include one or more connectors. The one or more connectors may be configured to: a) join the cord to one or more additional cords, and/or, b) secure the cord and/or one or more additional cords to the frame.
In some exemplary embodiments, the frame has a thickness of 1/16″-⅛″. The frame may have a width of 1½″-3″. The frame may have a length of 36″-48″.
The undergarment may include disposable undergarments and/or elastic waistband clothing. Affixing the undergarment to the personal aide device may be achieved by using one or more clips and/or pins to secure the undergarment to the frame of the personal aide device. Releasing the personal aide device from the undergarment may include removing the one or more clips and/or pins from the frame of the personal aide device.
According to another aspect, a personal aide device is provided. The device may have a frame having a first end connectable to and removeable from an opposed second end. The device may also include a first cord connected to the frame at a first location on the frame.
In some exemplary embodiments, the frame has a thickness of between 1/16″-⅛″. The frame may have a width of between 1½″-3″. The frame may have a length of between 36″-48″.
The first end of the frame and the second end of the frame may each be outfitted with mating hook and loop fasteners. The frame may be rigid. In some alternate embodiments, the frame is non-rigid.
The first cord may also be joined to the frame at a second location of the frame. The device may also include a second cord connected to the frame at a second location on the frame.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary oval personal aide device with an undergarment arranged in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 1B is a top view of an exemplary oval personal aide device with an undergarment;
FIG. 1C is a bottom view of an exemplary oval personal aide device with an undergarment;
FIG. 1D is a top view of an exemplary image of the oval personal aide device with an undergarment;
FIG. 1E is a top view of an exemplary image of the oval personal aide device without an undergarment;
FIG. 1F is a top view of an exemplary image of the oval personal aide device of FIGS. 1A-1E during application of an undergarment;
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of another exemplary personal aide device when assembled, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2B is a top view of the personal aide device of FIG. 2A;
FIG. 2C shows the personal aide device of FIGS. 2A and 2B when disassembled and assembled;
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of another exemplary personal aide device when assembled, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the exemplary personal aide device of FIG. 3A when disassembled;
FIG. 3C is a top view of a diagram of the exemplary personal aide device of FIGS. 3A and 3B;
FIG. 3D is a perspective view of the exemplary personal aide device of FIGS. 3A-3C, detailing how the personal aide device can be assembled;
FIG. 3E includes diagram views of the exemplary personal aide device of FIGS. 3A-3D when disassembled and assembled;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of exemplary connectors for the personal aides devices of the present disclosure;
FIG. 5 is a zoomed-in view of an exemplary means of further securing the personal aide device of FIGS. 3A-3E;
FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary image of the personal aide devices of FIGS. 2A-3E with an undergarment, including clips;
FIG. 7 is a top view of an exemplary image of the personal aide devices of FIGS. 2A-3E with an undergarment, including clips, cords, and connectors;
FIG. 8 is a top view of a rectangular personal aide device, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 9 is a top view of a second rectangular personal aide device;
FIG. 10 is a top view of a third rectangular personal aide device;
FIG. 11A is a top view of a hinged rectangular personal aide device in an open position;
FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the hinge shown in FIG. 11A;
FIG. 12A is a top view of a hinged rectangular personal aide device in an open position;
FIG. 12B is a top view of the device of FIG. 12A in a closed position;
FIG. 12C is a zoomed-in perspective view of the hinge shown in FIG. 12A;
FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a rectangular personal aide device with an undergarment;
FIG. 13B is a top view of a rectangular personal aide device with an undergarment;
FIG. 14 is a top view of three oval personal aide devices arranged around one another;
FIG. 15 is a top view of an individual oval personal aide device; and
FIG. 16 is a top view of an alternative individual oval personal aide device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The subject disclosure is directed to a personal aide device and related methods of use and manufacture. According to the present disclosure, the personal aide devices can be configured to allow an individual to more easily put on an undergarment or personal care product having a waistband. The disclosed personal aide devices may be suitable for use with absorbent underwear, diapers, incontinence pads, underwear, as well as pants, shorts, or other apparel having a waistband. These products are generally referred to herein as “undergarments.” The disclosed personal aide device can assist individuals with physical or cognitive limitations, such as limited mobility, understanding, perception, strength, and/or agility. These devices can accommodate individuals of all sizes.
FIGS. 1A-1C include views of exemplary personal aide device 100 with undergarment 104. In the present embodiment, personal aide device 100 includes an oval shape, but other shape configurations may be utilized. In this example, undergarment 104 includes a diaper, but can include any garments possessing a waistband. In some embodiments, the undergarment 104 is attached to a personal aide device 102 prior to placing the undergarment 104 on the individual. The individual wearing the undergarment 104 or a different individual may use the personal aide device 102. The individual may position the undergarment 104 around the personal aide device 102, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, and wrap the waistband of the undergarment 104 around frame 102 of the personal aide device 102, until secured in place. For example, in some embodiments, a user and/or recipient can affix an item with an elastic waistband, such as pants, shorts, diaper, or other like elements referenced as 104 by wrapping the elastic waistband around the outer lip of the aide device 100. In this way, the elastic waistband of 104 can organically retract and rest secured against the top face of the personal aide device 100. In some embodiments, frame 102 may include a rigid, ring-shaped oval frame, although other configurations are also possible and discussed elsewhere herein.
FIG. 1D includes personal aide device 125 with undergarment 104 wrapped around frame 102, as previously described. Device 125 further includes cord 106. In the present embodiment, cord 106 may be connected to frame 102 of device 125 at first and second opposing locations 108a and 108b. As illustrated in FIG. 1E, in some embodiments, cord 106 may be secured to frame 102 of device 125 at first and second opposing locations 108a and 108b via respective openings at first and second opposing locations 108a and 108b. Once cord 106 passes through these openings, it may be tied and/or otherwise supplemented, such as with a stopper, at each opening so that it may no longer pass back through each respective opening at first and second opposing locations 108a and 108b. In examples, cord 106 may include a nylon cord.
FIG. 1F is a top view of an exemplary image of the oval personal aide device of FIGS. 1A-1E during application 150 of undergarment 104. In the present embodiment, an individual user is affixing 150 the undergarment 104 without assistance from another individual, and is seated in an upright position. In some embodiments, once the undergarment 104 is attached to the personal aide device 100, as presented above, it may be affixed 150 to the individual. In some embodiments, the aide device 100 may be pulled on 150 by an individual or third-party while the recipient is seated. For example, the individual may be seated on a chair, a toilet, or any other conceivable seat 112, as shown in FIG. 1F. Although not shown in FIG. 1F, supine positioning of an individual receiving undergarment 104 is also possible. After attaching or otherwise affixing 150 the undergarment to the personal aide device, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, a recipient and/or assisting third-party can position the aide device 100 around and up the recipient's ankles in a medial direction. In some embodiments, cord 106 may be present to assist the recipient and/or assisting third-party in pulling 150 the undergarment 104 medially.
According to the present disclosure, once the device 100 is pulled 150 medially up the recipient's legs to a satisfactory position on the recipient's body, the recipient and/or assisting third party may remove the personal aide device 100 from the undergarment 104. In some embodiments, this position may be at or around the recipient's knees. In some embodiments, removing the personal aide device 100 can involve pulling the aide device 100 medially upwards a recipient's body and/or turning/twisting the aide device to free it from the undergarment 104. Once the aide device 100 is separated from the undergarment 104, it can be pulled laterally from the recipient's body, down and around their ankles, until it is no longer around their legs. In some embodiments, as will be introduced in FIGS. 2A-onward, the personal aide device can be assembled and/or removed by manipulating the frame of the aide device from an open to a closed, and then from a closed to an open position, respectively. At this point or prior thereto, the recipient and/or assisting third-party may continue pulling the undergarment 104 upwards medially, until the undergarment 104 rests in a satisfactory manner around the recipient's waist.
FIG. 2A is a perspective view of exemplary personal aide device 200 when assembled. Device 200 can be similar in function to device 100, and can include cord 204, which may be similar in form, function, and location as cord 106. Device 200 includes frame 202, which can include a non-rigid loop. Unlike frame 102, frame 202 can be manipulated between open and closed, and closed and open, positions via a first end 206 and a second end 208. In some embodiments, first end 206 and a second end 208 can be disposed at opposite ends of frame 202. First end 206 can include one or more holes 210, and second end can include one or more fasteners 212. In embodiments, device 200 can be assembled when an individual positions first end 206 above second end 208, and moves first end 206 onto second end 208 so that one or more holes 210 envelop and thereby secure, first end 206 against second end 208 via one or more fasteners 212. In some embodiments, this may be switched, so that first end 206 includes one or more fasteners 212, and second end 208 includes one or more holes 210.
FIGS. 2B and 2C illustrate, via diagrams of exemplary personal aide device 200 of FIG. 2A, various dimensions related to device 200. As previously mentioned, FIG. 2B details how device 200 may be adjusted between open and closed positions at varying widths so as to best accommodate the dimensions of an individual receiving an undergarment, such as 104, via their legs. The frame 202 may include a range of thicknesses, such between 1/16-⅛ of an inch, for example, so as to best accommodate the dimensions of respective individuals. The frame 202 may be made of wood, metal, plastics, for example Lexan, or composites. FIG. 2C details additional dimensions relating to frame 202, illustrating example height 0.08 inches in view 225. In embodiments, this height can span between 1/16-⅛ of an inch, as shown in FIG. 2B. View 250 illustrates that frame 202 can include a width of 1.5 inches. In embodiments, this width can span between 1-3 inches. View 275 illustrates that frame 202 can include a length of 42 inches. In embodiments, this length can span between 36-48 inches.
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of exemplary personal aide device 300 when assembled. Device 300 can be similar in function to devices 200 and 100, and can include cord 204, which may be similar in form, function, and location as cord 106. Device 300 includes frame 302, which can include a non-rigid loop. Like first end 206 and second end 208 in frame 202, frame 302 can be manipulated between open and closed, and closed and open, positions via a first end 308 and a second end 310. An open, prone position of frame 302 of device 300 is shown in FIG. 3B. In some embodiments, first end 308 and a second end 310 can be disposed at opposite ends of frame 302. Unlike frame 202, frame 302 can include first adhesive 306a and second adhesive 306b at first end 308 and second end 310, respectively. In examples, first adhesive 306a and second adhesive 306b can include hook and loop fasteners, such as Velcro and like, to enable simple, but reliable, connecting and disconnecting of first end 308 to second end 310. In embodiments, device 300 can be assembled when an individual positions first end 308 above second end 310, and moves first end 308 onto second end 310 so that first end 308 is secured against second end 310 as first adhesive 306a is joined with second adhesive 306b. In some examples, first adhesive 306a and second adhesive 306b may be disposed on both sides of first end 308 and/or second end 310, as shown in FIG. 3D, so as to further promote flexibility in adjusting frame 302 around an individual during use of device 300 to affix an undergarment.
FIGS. 3C and 3E illustrate, via diagrams of exemplary personal aide device 300 of FIG. 3A, various dimensions related to device 300. As previously mentioned, FIG. 3C details how device 300 may be adjusted between open and closed positions at varying widths so as to best accommodate the dimensions of an individual receiving an undergarment, such as 104, via their legs. The frame 302 may include a range of thicknesses, such between 1/16-⅛ of an inch, for example, so as to best accommodate the dimensions of respective individuals. The frame 302 may be made of Lexan, or like materials, for example. FIG. 3E details additional dimensions relating to frame 302, illustrating example height 0.13 inches in view 325. In embodiments, this height can span between 1/16-⅛ of an inch, as shown in FIG. 3C. View 350 illustrates that frame 302 can include a width of 2 inches. In embodiments, this width can span between 1-3 inches. View 375 illustrates that frame 302 can include a length of 42 inches. In embodiments, this length can span between 36-48 inches.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of exemplary connectors 400 for the personal aide devices 100-300 of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, these one or more connectors 400 can include safety breakaway pop barrel connectors, or like components. Connector 400 can be utilized to connect one or more cords 106, as shown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, connectors 400 may be used to secure the cord 106 and/or one or more additional cords to the frame 100-300 if they are attached once the one or more cords 106 is inserted through opposing ends 108a and/or 108b, as previously discussed.
FIG. 5 is a zoomed-in view 500 of an exemplary means of further securing the personal aide device of FIGS. 2A-3E. In FIG. 5, an elastic band 502 is previously positioned on the frame, such as frame 302, which can then be wrapped around first end 308 and second end 310 once first and second adhesives 306a and 306b are engaged with one another. This can further secure the personal aide devices of the present disclosure against undesired transition between closed and open positions during affixing of an undergarment to an individual, or other use.
FIG. 6 is a top view 600 of personal aide devices 200 and 300 of FIGS. 2A-3E with an undergarment 104, further including one or more clips 602a-602e. In embodiments, these clips 602a-602e may or may not be present and can vary in number. These clips 602a-602e may include clothes pin(s), binder clip(s), and like components. Similar to band 502, once first and second adhesives 306a and 306b are engaged with one another, clips 602a-602e can further secure the personal aide devices of the present disclosure against undesired transition between closed and open positions during affixing of an undergarment to an individual, or other use. These one or more clips 602a-602e can therefore be removed at will and/or once the undergarment 104 is positioned satisfactorily around an individual user.
FIG. 7 is a view 700 of personal aide device 300 of FIGS. 3A-3E with an undergarment 104. FIG. 7 further includes one or more clips 602a-602d, one or more cords 106a and 106b, and one or more connectors 400. Although device 300 is shown, device 200 can also be utilized in a like manner. View 700 illustrates an assembled device 300 which may be ready for utilization in affixing undergarment 104 to an individual, as previously described.
Other embodiments of the personal aide devices disclosed herein may be utilized in affixing an undergarment, such as 104, to an individual using the components and processes previously described. FIG. 8 is a top view of a rectangular embodiment of a personal aide device 800, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a top view of a second rectangular embodiment 900, similar to that of FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is a top view of a third rectangular embodiment 1000, similar to that of FIGS. 8-9. In some embodiments, these rectangle embodiments 800-1000 may measure 9″×12¾″. Example embodiments and details can be seen in FIGS. 13A-13B. As shown in FIGS. 8-10, these rectangular embodiments may be a unitary structure.
In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11A-11B and 11A-11C, these rectangular embodiments 1100 and 1200 may include two halves, which may be hingedly or otherwise attached. These embodiments can be in an open position, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 12A, or a closed position, as shown in FIGS. 11B and 12B. Distal from the example hinge components 1102a-1102b and 1202a-1202b shown in these embodiments, the two halves may be configured to mate and remain mated when a rectangular embodiment, as presented, is arranged from an open to a closed position. In some embodiments, this configuration can allow an individual to more readily attach and/or remove an undergarment to and from the respective devices of the present disclosure. Additionally, this configuration can allow for removal of the aide device from around an individual more readily once the undergarment has been affixed to a recipient.
FIG. 13A is a perspective view 1300 of any one of the rectangular embodiments of devices 800-1200, including an undergarment 1302 arranged around the personal aide device. FIG. 13B is a top view 1325 of any one of the rectangular embodiments 800-1200, including an undergarment 1302 arranged around the personal aide device. In some embodiments, a user and/or recipient can affix waistband pants, shorts, diaper, or other like elements by, for example, an elastic waistband which can be wrapped by an individual around the outer lip of the aide device. In this way, the elastic waistband can organically retract and rest secured against the top face of the personal aide device.
FIG. 14 is a top view of three oval embodiments 1402-1406 of a personal aide device according to the present disclosure arranged around one another to provide scale. FIG. 15 is a top view of an individual oval embodiment 1500, which can include device embodiments 1402-1406, 100, or other like embodiments. FIG. 16 is a top view of an alternative individual oval embodiment 1600, which can include device embodiments 1500, 1402-1406, 100, or other like embodiments. These oval embodiments, as disclosed, may be hinged as previously described relating to devices 1100 and 1200. In some embodiments, these oval embodiments may measure 6″×11″, 9¾″×13″ or 12″×16″. These rectangular embodiments may be a unitary structure. These oval embodiments may also include two halves, which may be hingeably or otherwise attached. These embodiments can be in an open position, similar to those shown in FIGS. 11A and 12A, or a closed position, similar to those shown in FIGS. 11B and 12B. Distal from the example hinge components shown in these embodiments, the two halves may be configured to mate and remain mated when an oval embodiment as presented is arranged from an open to a closed position. In some embodiments, this configuration can allow an individual to more readily attach and/or remove an undergarment to and from the respective device. Additionally, this configuration can allow for removal of the aide device from around an individual more readily once the undergarment has been put onto the individual.
The disclosed personal aide devices may be constructed from any suitable material, such as, but not limited to: wood, composite materials, various types of plastic including Lexan, polylactic acid (PLA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl alcohol plastic (PVA), acrylic (PMMA), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethyelene (PE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polypropylene (PP), and/or polystyrene (PS).
It should be understood that the embodiments of the invention described above are only particular examples which serve to illustrate the principles of the invention. Modifications and alternative embodiments of the invention are contemplated which do not depart from the scope of the invention as defined by the foregoing teachings and appended claims. It is intended that the claims cover all such modifications and alternative embodiments that fall within their scope.
Patent Application
20240335054
