REMOVABLY ATTACHED SEAT FOR A MOBILITY APPARATUS

Abstract

A seat comprising: an attachment bracket; a seat hub rotatably attached to the attachment bracket in a first axis; a first locking mechanism operable to place the seat hub between a first position and a second position; a seat arm swivably attached to the seat hub in a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially orthogonal to the first axis; a seating pad rotatably attached to the seat arm in a third axis, wherein the seating pad is caused to pivot into a sitting position; a second locking mechanism operable to maintain the seating pad in the sitting position.

Description

FIELD

Aspects of this disclosure relate to mobility devices, more particularly it relates to a mobility apparatus for assisting an individual stand from a seated position, or from a standing position to a seated position.

BACKGROUND

Inaccurate or improper handling and lifting of an individual by caregivers (either professionals or family member) can put both parties involved at high risk for further injuries, such as falls and musculoskeletal injury. The forward bending required for many individual-lifting and moving activities places the caregiver's spine in a vulnerable position. Even under ideal lifting conditions, the typical weight of any adult far exceeds the lifting capacity of most caregivers, 90 percent of whom are female.

Current products on the market are bulky, cumbersome, and expensive and are not designed for a home setting. For example, hoist floor-based lifts and ceiling-based lifts which lifts the individual with a fabric sling are typically found in institutions are difficult to use, and cause increased individual anxiety and diminished individual safety.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one of its aspects, there is provided a mobility apparatus having:

a base having casters;a handle assembly pivotally attached to the base;a locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;an actuating mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism; andwherein the locking mechanism comprises:

a hub fixedly secured to the base;

• • a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub and comprising attachment means for the handle assembly;
  • a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring to provide a mechanical advantage to assist an operator in lifting a patient; anda breaking mechanism for the casters, wherein the breaking mechanism is operable to lock and unlock the casters simultaneously.

In another of its aspects, there is provided a mobility apparatus having: a base;

a handle assembly pivotally attached to the base, the handle assembly having at least one handle bar;a locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in the operating mode of the apparatus;an actuating mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism; andwherein with the handle assembly pivoted at an operating angle (ϕ) towards a patient in a seated position with a fixed pivot point formed at the patient's knees, the patient is able to reach and grasp the at least one handle bar by substantially extending the patient's arms, such that the patient's body straightens up on the fixed pivot point.

In another of its aspects, there is provided a method of transferring an individual from a seated position to a standing position, the method having the steps of: providing a mobility apparatus having:

• • a base;
  • a handle assembly pivotally attached to the base;
  • a locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;
  • wherein the plurality of positions correspond to one of a collapsed mode, a loading mode and a transfer mode;
  • an actuating lever mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism;

wherein the locking mechanism comprises:

• • a hub fixedly secured to the base;
  • a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub and comprising attachment means for the handle assembly;
  • a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring to provide a mechanical advantage to assist an operator in lifting a patient;
  • positioning the individual in front of the apparatus to grasp the handle assembly while seated; and

pulling the individual from the seated position to the standing position by pulling on the handle assembly to lift the individual along a predetermined upward arc.

In another of its aspects, there is provided a method of transferring an individual from a standing position to a seated position, the method having the steps of:

providing a mobility apparatus having:

• • a base;
  • a handle assembly pivotally attached to the base;
  • a locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and

maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;

• • an actuating lever mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism;
  • an actuating mechanism coupled to the locking mechanism to actuate the locking mechanism;
  • wherein the locking mechanism comprises:
    • a hub fixedly secured to the base;
  • a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub and comprising attachment means for the handle assembly;
  • a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring to provide a controlled and dampened movement of the handle assembly to assist an operator in transferring a patient from the standing position to the seated position;

positioning the individual in front of the apparatus to grasp the handle assembly while standing; and

forcing the individual from the standing position to the seated position by applying a force on the handle assembly to lower the individual along a predetermined downward arc to the seated position.

In another of its aspects, there is provided a seat for a mobility apparatus, the seat comprising:

an attachment bracket;

a seat hub rotatably attached to the attachment bracket in a first axis;

a first locking mechanism operable to place the seat hub between a first position and a second position;

a seat arm swivably attached to the seat hub in a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially orthogonal to the first axis;

a seating pad rotatably attached to the seat arm in a third axis, wherein the seating pad is caused to pivot into a sitting position; and

a second locking mechanism operable to maintain the seating pad in the sitting position.

In another of its aspects, there is provided a mobility apparatus comprising:

a handle assembly;a base having casters;

a seat comprising:

• • an attachment bracket;
  • a seat hub rotatably attached to the attachment bracket in a first axis;
  • a first locking mechanism operable to place the seat hub between a first position and a second position;
  • a seat arm swivably attached to the seat hub in a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially orthogonal to the first axis;
  • a seating pad rotatably attached to the seat arm in a third axis, wherein the seating pad is caused to pivot into a sitting position;
  • a second locking mechanism operable to maintain the seating pad in the sitting position.

third locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;

wherein the third locking mechanism comprises:

• • a hub fixedly secured to the base, the hub comprising attachment means for the handle assembly;
  • a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub;
  • a biased sliding lock pin;
  • a lock track comprising a plurality of detent positions engageable by the biased sliding lock pin to place the handle assembly into the plurality of positions, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;
  • a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring;

an actuating mechanism comprising a hand operated lever coupled to the biased sliding lock pin and operable to cause the biased sliding lock pin in the plurality of detent positions; and

a braking mechanism for the casters, wherein the braking mechanism is operable to lock and unlock the casters simultaneously.

Advantageously, the mobility apparatus is a manual sit-to-stand transport-assist lift, which enables caregivers to lift and transport individuals who lack strength or mobility to stand on their own. The apparatus allows the lifting of the individual by pulling the individual upward involving a single pull mechanism. Accordingly, the product improves the caregiver experience in areas such as, transfer, positioning, support and lifting. The apparatus is compact, light and portable so the user can carry or store the device near the individual for repeated use and can be collapsed for simple storage. The apparatus provides a much simpler and cost-effective solution for users who do not have access to the bulky and expensive electrical and hydraulic lifts which are not suited for use in a home environment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a mobility apparatus, in one exemplary implementation;

FIG. 2a shows a side view of the mobility apparatus;

FIG. 2b shows a front view of the mobility apparatus;

FIG. 2c shows a rear view of the mobility apparatus;

FIG. 3a shows a cutaway view of a handle mechanism and a braking mechanism;

FIG. 3b shows an exploded view of the handle mechanism;

FIG. 4a shows a cutaway view of the handle mechanism when assembled;

FIG. 4b shows a lock track of the handle mechanism with detent positions corresponding to the various operating modes of the mobility apparatus;

FIG. 5a shows the mobility apparatus in a storage mode;

FIG. 5b shows the mobility apparatus in a loading mode;

FIG. 5c shows the mobility apparatus in a transfer mode;

FIG. 6a shows a handle lever mechanism when mobility apparatus is in a storage mode or transfer mode;

FIG. 6b shows the handle lever mechanism when mobility apparatus is in a loading mode;

FIG. 7a shows a sliding lock pin in a detent position corresponding to a storage mode;

FIG. 7b shows the sliding lock pin in a detent position corresponding to a loading mode;

FIG. 7c shows the sliding lock pin on a tapered section of the detent position corresponding to a loading mode;

FIG. 7d shows the sliding lock pin in a detent position corresponding to a transfer mode;

FIG. 7e shows the sliding lock pin after disengaging from the detent position corresponding to a transfer mode to the detent position corresponding to the loading mode;

FIGS. 8a and 8b show views of the wheel braking mechanism;

FIGS. 9a and 9b show a braking system for casters;

FIGS. 10a to 10c show the mobility apparatus in use for transferring an individual from an initial seated position to a standing position;

FIGS. 11a to 11c show the mobility apparatus in use for transferring an individual from an initial seated position to a standing position; and

FIGS. 12a to 12c show the mobility apparatus in use for transferring an individual with an auxiliary support system from an initial seated position to a standing position;

FIGS. 13a to 13c show the method steps for transferring an individual from an initial seated position to a standing position;

FIGS. 14a to 14c show the mobility apparatus the method steps for transferring an individual from an initial standing position to a seated position;

FIG. 15a shows a perspective view of a mobility apparatus, in another exemplary implementation;

FIG. 15b shows a side view of the mobility apparatus of FIG. 15a;

FIG. 15c shows a front view of the mobility apparatus of FIG. 15a;

FIG. 15d shows a rear view of the mobility apparatus of FIG. 15a;

FIG. 16 shows of a range of motion of a handle assembly of the mobility apparatus of FIG. 15a;

FIGS. 17a-d show views of a handle mechanism;

FIGS. 18a-c show views of an actuating mechanism;

FIGS. 19a-c show views of a gas spring mechanism in operation;

FIGS. 20a-c show views of a braking system for casters;

FIGS. 21a-d show views of a shin pad assembly;

FIGS. 22a-e show views of a platform;

FIGS. 23 shows a view of the mobility apparatus in use;

FIGS. 24a to 24c show the mobility apparatus in use for transferring an individual from an initial seated position to a standing position;

FIGS. 25a to 25d show the mobility apparatus with an auxiliary seat;

FIG. 26 shows a swivable and lockable side support with an attachment bracket for an auxiliary seat;

FIGS. 27a and 27b show an auxiliary seat in a folded state;

FIG. 28a shows an exploded view of the auxiliary seat;

FIG. 28b shows a top view of the attachment bracket, the seat arm and a seating pad;

FIG. 28c shows a sectional view of the attachment bracket and the seat arm, taken along line A-A in FIG. 28b; and

FIG. 29 shows a seat arm rotatably attached to the attachment bracket;

FIG. 30 shows detail of a hinge structure for the seating pad;

FIGS. 31a and 31b show detail of a hinge structure for the seating pad and a stop mechanism for rotation of the seating pad;

FIGS. 32a and 32f show various schematics when placing the seat from a folded state to an operating state;

FIG. 33 shows a side view of the attachment bracket and a seat arm;

FIG. 34 shows a sectional view of the attachment bracket and the seat arm, taken along line B-B in FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 shows a rear view of the attachment bracket and the seat arm;

FIG. 36 shows a sectional view of the attachment bracket and the seat arm, taken along line C-C in FIG. 35; and

FIGS. 37a to 37c show the mobility apparatus with an auxiliary seat in operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description of exemplary implementations of the invention herein makes reference to the accompanying block diagrams and schematic diagrams, which show the exemplary implementation by way of illustration. While these exemplary implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other exemplary implementations may be realized and that logical and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the detailed description herein is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process descriptions may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented.

Moreover, it should be appreciated that the particular implementations shown and described herein are illustrative of the invention and its best mode and are not intended to otherwise limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Indeed, for the sake of brevity, certain sub-components of the individual operating components and other functional aspects of the systems may not be described in detail herein. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures contained herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and/or physical couplings between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in a practical system.

Looking at FIGS. 1 and 2a, 2b and 2c there is shown a mobility apparatus, generally designated by the numeral 10, comprising base 11 and handle assembly 12 pivotally attached thereto. An exemplary use for mobility apparatus 10 is for individuals that require assistance with mobility, such as elderly people, infirmed individuals, rehabilitating individuals, as well as helping the family members and operators lift and transfer these individuals. Base 11 comprises front portion 14 and rear portion 16. Base 11 comprises a pair of oppositely disposed members 18, 20 linked to each other by central linking member 22. Each end 24, 26 of tubular member 18 includes casters 32, 34, and each end 36, 38 of member 20 includes casters 40, 42, respectively. Secured between members 28, 30 and central linking member 22 is platform 43 which allows for an individual to stand on while being lifted from a seated position to a standing position, and vice-versa, as will be explained below. Secured to central linking member 22 is foot brake 44 coupled to central braking mechanism 45 for simultaneous locking and unlocking of all casters 32, 34, 40 and 42, and shin pad 46 is disposed about halfway of the central linking member 22. Shin pad 46 is designed for individuals with bad knees as well as a safety feature for individuals with cognitive disabilities and reduces the likelihood of the individual's body from collapsing into the handle assembly 12 structure in instances where the individual is not able to support their body using their legs.

Handle assembly 12 includes a pair of oppositely disposed, elongated members 47, 48, each having an arcuate segment 50, 52 with ends 54, 56 with transverse primary handlebar grip 58, secured therebetween. Additional secondary handlebar grips 60, 62, 64, are secured between arcuate segments 50 and 52, while reinforcing member 66 is connected between elongated members 47, 48 to provide additional rigidity to handle assembly 12. Primary handlebar grip 58 is preferably situated at a height that is comfortable and ergonomically correct for an operator, such as a caregiver, when the operator is in a standing position, as will be described later with reference to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c. Also, the positioning of secondary handlebar grips 60, 62, 64 above base 11, and spacing therebetween, is chosen to be facilitate grasping by individuals of various sizes, and varying reach. Ends 68, 70 of elongated members 47, 48 are received by handle mechanism 72, 74 pivotally attached to base 11, to allow limited rotation of handle assembly 12 about base 11, as shown in FIG. 3a. Elongated members 47, 48 further comprise opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78 which provide side support to an individual being assisted. Side supports 76, 78 substantially prevent the individual from falling to either side, and may be used as handles on which the individual pushes on in order to walk with advantage, when platform 44 is removed.

FIG. 3a shows an exploded view of handle mechanism 72 comprising hub 80 fixedly secured to base 11 adjacent central linking member 22, and lock track 82 received and fixedly secured within hub 80. Also part of handle mechanism 72 is lock guide ring 84 rotatably attached to hub 80, and biased sliding lock pin 86 coupled to actuating lever mechanism 88 disposed on arcuate segment 50, 52 of handle assembly 12 by cable 90. Sliding lock pin 86 is biased by resilient member 92, such as a spring. Hub ring 94 receives lock guide ring 84, and is secured thereto, such that hub ring 94 and lock guide ring 84 are caused to rotate in unison about base 11. Hub ring 94 also includes an attachment means for end 68 of elongated member 47 of handle assembly 12, such as an orifice for receiving end 68 of elongated member 47. Therefore, when handle assembly 12 is caused to rotate following actuation of actuating lever mechanism 88, lock guide ring 84, hub ring 94, sliding lock pin 86, spring 92, and lock cable 90 all rotate together while hub 80 and lock track 82 remain in a fixed position on base 11.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4a and 4b, lock track 82 includes a plurality of detent positions 100, 102, 104 engageable by locking end 95 of sliding lock pin 86 to place handle assembly 12 in a variety of operating modes, such as storage mode, loading mode, and transfer mode. Accordingly, detent position 100 is associated with the collapsed or storage mode, detent position 102 is associated with the loading mode, and detent position 104 is associated with the transfer mode.

As shown in FIGS. 5a, 5b, and 5c, the operating modes are controlled by a handle mechanism 72 coupled to actuating lever mechanism 88 which causes spring-loaded sliding lock pin 86 to engage or disengage one of the detent positions 100, 102 or 104 for a desired operating mode. Handle mechanism 74 comprises identical parts, and therefore the description of handle mechanism 72 herein applies to handle mechanism 74, as both handle mechanism 72 and 74 operate in unison upon actuation of actuating lever mechanism 88.

Looking at FIGS. 6a and 6b, actuating lever mechanism 88 comprises handle lever 110 hingedly connected to transverse primary handlebar grip 58 and having lock cable 90 extending from sliding lock pin 86 fastened thereto. Generally, handle lever 110 is actuated to apply a tension to cable 90 or release the tension in cable 90. When apparatus 10 is in the storage mode or transfer mode, then sliding lock pin 86 engages detent position 100, and 104, respectively, and handle levers 110, 112 are sprung away from transverse primary handlebar grip 58.

Starting with the apparatus 10 in a collapsed or storage mode, as shown in FIG. 5a, handle assembly 12 is rotated about base 11 pivoting at handle mechanism 72, 74, such that elongated members 47, 48, are adjacent to base 11. In this position, sliding lock pin 86 engages detent position 100, as shown in FIG. 5a.

When an operator wishes to operate apparatus 10 to assist an individual in a seated position to a standing position, operator compresses handle lever 110 which applies tension to a lock cable 90. The tension pulls lock cable 90 and sliding lock pin 86 retracts from detent position 100, pressing up against spring 92 to bias spring 92, which disengages locking end 95 from lock track 82. With locking end 95 now removed from lock track 82, the entire handle assembly 12 is rotated clockwise about hub 80. When handle lever 110 is released, the tension in locking cable 90 is released and spring 92 decompresses and pushes against sliding lock pin 86 and locking end 95 glides on an inner surface of lock track 82 until locking end 95 is forced back into loading detent position 102, and handle assembly 12 is disposed at a loading angle a relative to the ground plane, as shown in FIG. 5b. While in this resting position, an individual is able to grab secondary handlebar grips or rungs 60, 62, 64 from a seated position. As can be seen in FIGS. 7a and 7b, detent position 102 includes a raised shoulder portion 120 and a tapered portion 122, such that locking end 95 abuts shoulder portion 120 to arrest any rotating motion of handle assembly towards the patient, as the individual grabs and pushes down on secondary handlebar grips or rungs 60, 62, 64, as the individual is about to be lifted from the seated position. Accordingly, the engagement of locking end 95 with shoulder portion 120 maintains handle assembly 12 in the loading mode.

Once the individual has a firm grip on secondary handlebar grips or rungs 60, 62, 64, the operator the applies pressure to the handle lever 110 which applies tension to the lock cable 90, which translates the sliding lock pin 86 against the compression spring 92 and forces locking end 95 to disengage shoulder portion 120. Once locking end 95 is disengaged from shoulder portion 120, handle lever 110 is released. Next, the operator is able to apply a force on primary handlebar grip 58 to rotate handle assembly 12 away from the individual to lift the individual from a seated position, as locking end 95 glides up on tapered portion 122 of detent position 102 and compresses spring 92, as shown FIG. 7c. Handle assembly 12 is rotated clockwise toward the operator about hub 90 until locking end 85 finds detent position 104 and compression spring 92 forces locking end 85 into detent position 104, thereby resiliently biasing locking end 95 to remain within detent position 104 corresponding to the transfer mode, which allows apparatus 10 to be moved, as shown FIG. 7d.

A restricting device 130 on the lock track 82 prevents the handle assembly 12 from over-rotating towards the operators. Even if the handle lever 110 is actuated, the sliding lock pin 86 cannot be translated beyond the restricting device 130, as shown in FIG. 7d.

To lower an individual from a standing position, the process is reversed. The handle lever 110 is actuated which applies tension to the cable 90, and causes sliding lock pin 86 against spring 92, thereby forcing locking end 95 out of detent position 104, as shown FIG. 7e. Handle assembly is then rotated anticlockwise towards the individual, and the individual is lowered into a seated position. When the handle lever 112 is released, spring 92 forces sliding lock pin 86 into the loading detent position 102, and locking end 95 glides along tapered portion 122 of detent position 102, until coming to a rest against shoulder portion 120.

Looking now at FIGS. 9a and 9b there is shown the braking mechanism 45 for caster 32, 34, 40 and 42. Braking mechanism 45 comprises a parallel system consisting of foot brake bar 44 which connects two over centre mechanisms 130 on either side of base 11. Cables 132 connect the over centre mechanisms 130 to the casters 32, 34, 40 and 42 on the base 11. When the foot brake bar 130 is not actuated the apparatus is able to move along a ground plane in a desired direction. In this instance, brake cables 132 are tensioned and maintained in place by the over centre mechanisms 130, compressing the springs in each of the casters 32, 34, 40 and 42 and allowing the apparatus 10 to roll freely in any chosen direction via the operator. To lift or lower an individual after transfer, the operator engages the brake mechanism 45 by pushing the foot brake bar 44 down, thereby releasing the tension in the brake cables 132 and allowing the compression springs to actuate the brake plate 136 in the caster 32, 34, 40 and 42, engaging the teeth 138 and stopping the rotation of the caster wheel. Casters 32, 34, 40 and 42 operate as a dead man's switch, that is, unless the brake cable 134 through the casters 32, 34, 40 and 42 is tensioned, the spring within the caster 32, 34, 40 and 42 maintains the casters 32, 34, 40 and 42 in a locked position by default.

FIG. 10a shows apparatus 10 in operation in a loading mode of individual 142 from an initial seated position by operator 140, in one example. Once an assessment of ability of individual 142 with respect to grip strength and stability has been made, operator 140 locks the caster 32, 34, 40 and 42 via central braking mechanism 45, and requests individual 142 to hold on to one of secondary handle grips 60, 62, and 64. Operator 140 then disengages locking mechanism to allow rotation of handle assembly 12. Next, operator 140 informs individual 142 of the intent to lift and transfer individual 142. With individual 142 securely gripping one of secondary handle grips 60, 62, and 64, operator 140 then grasps primary handle grip 47 and pulls handle assembly 14 away from individual 142, as shown in FIG. 10b. Operator 140 continues pulling on handle assembly 14 in a clockwise direction, and handle assembly 12 rotates until sliding lock pin 86 engages detent position 104 to place handle assembly 14 in a transfer mode, as shown in FIG. 10c.

FIGS. 11 a to 11c, and 12a to 12c show the mobility apparatus 10 in use for transferring individual 142 from an initial standing position to a seated position, or vice versa by operator 140. Once individual 142 is brought to the desired location, operator 140 unlock locking mechanism and gently guide the individual 142 and lower the frame assembly 14 back to its loading mode. Accordingly, apparatus 10 allows an operator or operator 140 to lift and transfer individual within a given setting, such as a home environment, hospital or assisted-living facility. For example, operator 140 may operate apparatus 10 to lift, move or transfer individual 142 that needs assistance, e.g. from a bed to a wheelchair or walker, or from a wheelchair to a walker, toilet, or any other transfer situation. FIGS. 13a to 13c show the method steps for transferring an individual 142 from an initial seated position to a standing position; and FIGS. 14a to 14c show the method steps for transferring an individual 142 from an initial standing position to a seated position, or vice versa.

In another exemplary implementation, each of pair of oppositely disposed, elongated members 47, 48 is telescoping for length adjustment to suit the height of individual 142 and/or operator 140.

In another exemplary implementation, the arms of arcuate members 50, 52 are telescoping to permit height adjustment of apparatus 10 to suit individual 142 and/or operator 140.

In another exemplary implementation, platform 43 is releasably attached to base 11, thereby enabling ambulatory motion by individual 142 using apparatus 10.

In another exemplary implementation, there is provided an auxiliary supporting system 150 for an individual, such as a belt strap placed behind an individual's torso and having one end releasably attached to elongated tubular member 47, and another end releasably attached to elongated tubular member 48. The auxiliary supporting system may include a plurality of belts or bands for supporting the waist, hips and upper part of the legs of the individual, as shown in FIGS. 12b and 12c. The belt or band 150 impedes individual 142 from falling backwards when rising from a seated position or descending into a seated position. The belt or band 150 may be adjustable to suit various body shapes and sizes.

In another exemplary implementation, base 11 comprises a counterweight to provide additional stability to apparatus 10, and hence individual 142 during raising and standing.

In another exemplary implementation, apparatus 10 includes at least one of an arcuate member 50, 52, elongate member 47, 48, and base 11 structural members formed of aluminum, steel or plastic.

In another exemplary implementation, apparatus 10 includes at least one of an arcuate member 50, 52, elongate member 47, 48, and base 11 structural members formed of aluminum, steel or plastic formed of tubular structural members.

In another exemplary implementation, base 11 includes wheels operable for braking by a braking mechanism.

In order to improve the posture of the individual 142 while being lifted, the arms are at a 20 to 30 degree angle theta (Θ). This allows the body travels at an upward arc instead of merely bending at the center of the body, as the horizontal arms will only cause the body to bend at the center and be pulled horizontally. Creating an upward angle with arms relative to the center of the body allows the apparatus 10 to be used to pull the individual 142 upward. The overall height of the apparatus 10, and various handle locations are designed to facilitate the upward position of the individual 142's arms for a range of individual body sizes.

During the lifting process the individual is seated upward at about 90 degrees while the feet (ankles) are also at a 90 degree angle relative to base 11.

In order to improve the posture of individual the apparatus 10 is designed to lift individual 142 at an upward arc. The arc is created by the central pivot or lever indicates the direction that individual 142 will travel. By extending the bar away from the pivot point the initial arc is upward instead downward, since if operator 140 starts to pull the individual 142 at a downward arc then the body of individual 142 would only bend and not move.

FIGS. 15a to 15f show a mobility apparatus 145 in another exemplary implementation. Similar to mobility apparatus 10, handle assembly 146 includes a pair of oppositely disposed, elongated members 147, 148, each having an arcuate segment 150, 152 with ends 154, 155 with actuating mechanism 156, 157. Secured between elongated members 147, 148 are transverse primary handlebar grip 158, and secondary handlebar grips 160, 162. Primary handlebar grip 158 is preferably situated at a height that is comfortable and ergonomically correct for an operator, such as a caregiver, when the operator is in a standing position, as will be described later with reference to FIGS. 24a, 24b and 24c. Also, the positioning of secondary handlebar grips 160, 162, and spacing therebetween, is chosen to be facilitate grasping by individuals of various sizes, and varying reach. Ends 164, 166 of elongated members 147, 148 are received by handle mechanism 168, 170 pivotally attached to base 172, to allow limited rotation of handle assembly 146 about base 172, e.g. by angle ϕ, as shown in FIG. 16. In one example, the angle of rotation ϕ is 35 degrees. Elongated members 147, 148 further comprise opposed swivable and lockable side supports 176, 178 which provide side support to an individual being assisted. Side supports 176, 178 substantially prevent the individual from falling to either side, and may be used as handles on which the individual pushes on in order to walk with apparatus 145, when platform 179 of base 172 is removed.

FIGS. 17a-c show a view of handle mechanism 168 comprising hub 180 fixedly secured to base 172 and hub ring 182 rotatably attached to hub 180 with a limited range of motion. Handle mechanism 170 comprises identical parts, and therefore the description of handle mechanism 168 herein applies to handle mechanism 170, as both handle mechanism 168 and 170 operate in unison upon actuation of actuating mechanism 156, 157. Coupled to hub ring 182 is gas spring mechanism 184 via bracket 186. Gas spring mechanism 184 is mounted on front portion of base 172 and provides a mechanical advantage to assist an operator in lifting a patient from a seated position to a standing position. Alternatively, gas spring mechanism 184 provides a controlled and dampened movement of handle assembly 146 to assist an operator in transferring a patient from a standing position to a seated position.

As can be seen in FIG. 17d, hub ring 182 comprises annular flange 190 with a gap 192 defined therein. Hub 180 comprises lock bolts 194, 196 which are received by gap 192 for limiting the range of motion of hub ring 182 during operation of apparatus 150. Hub ring 182 also includes an attachment means for end 164 of elongated member 147 of handle assembly 12, such as an orifice for receiving end 164. Therefore, when handle assembly 12 is caused to rotate following actuation of actuating mechanism 156, hub ring 182 rotates too.

Actuating mechanism 157 comprises identical parts, and therefore the description of handle mechanism 156 herein applies to actuating mechanism 157, as both actuating mechanism 156, 157 operate in unison to cause rotation of hub rings 182.

Looking at FIGS. 18a-c, actuating mechanism 156 comprises grip handle 200 with lower handle portion 201a and upper handle portion 201b, and lever 202 coupled to gas spring actuating cable 204 linked to gas spring mechanism 184. Actuating mechanism 156 allows placement of apparatus 150 between a plurality of positions, such as loading, transfer and storage. Lever 202 is rotatable within grip handle 200 and includes spring means 206 which resiliently biases lever 202 in a non-actuating position. Gas spring actuating cable 204 is fed through push-pull cable fitting 208 with ball bearing valve 210. In a rest position, as shown in FIG. 18b, ball bearing valve 210 locks gas spring mechanism 184 anytime lever 202 is not squeezed. In FIG. 18c, urging lever 202 toward lower handle portion 201a places lever in an actuating position, and therefore squeezing lever 202 pulls gas spring actuating cable 204 and unlocks the gas spring mechanism 206 to cause rotation of hub ring 182, to permit placement of apparatus in multiple operating modes.

In FIG. 19a, with gas spring mechanism 184 unlocked, hub ring 182 is free to rotate about hub 180, however, the range of motion of hub ring 182 is limited by lock bolts 194, 196. For example, handle mechanism 168 and 170 pivots through 35 degrees to assist the patient from sitting to standing position. In FIG. 19b, gas spring mechanism 184 is locked and maintains handle assembly 146 in a desired position, such as a vertical position. In FIG. 19c, gas spring mechanism 184 is locked and maintains handle assembly 146 in another desired position, such as a loading/unloading position. Accordingly, the locking feature of gas spring mechanism 184 allows for placement of handle assembly 146 in a plurality of positions within the limited range of motion, with the positions being associated with a variety of operating modes, such as storage mode, loading mode, and transfer mode, as described above.

Looking now at FIGS. 20a-c there is shown a braking mechanism 210 for caster assemblies 212a-d. Braking mechanism 210 comprises foot pedal 212 operable between two positions, and coupled to cam 214a, 214b and to cause limited rotation of same. Brake cable 216a connects caster assembly 212a to cam 214a via cable anchor 215a, and brake cable 216b connects caster assembly 212b to cam 214a via cable anchor 215b. Brake cable 216c connects caster assembly 212c to cam 214b via cable anchor 215c, and brake cable 216d connects caster assembly 212d to cam 214b via cable anchor 215d. The two position foot operated lever 212 activates cables 216a-d which engages and disengages the brakes on all four caster assemblies 212a-d simultaneously. Generally, caster assemblies 212a-d are fitted with brakes which are engaged by default.

Looking at FIG. 20b, in the default position, foot pedal 212 is depressed such that cam 214 rotates past plunger 217, thereby loosening brake cables 212a, b to engage the brake. Meanwhile, in FIG. 20c, foot pedal 212 is lifted up such that cam 214 rotates past plunger 217, thereby tightening brake cables 212a, b to disengage the brake.

Now looking at FIGS. 21a-d, there is shown a retractable shin pad assembly 220. Shin pad mount 222 is fixedly secured to base 172, and includes an orifice 224 defined therein for receiving toothed retracting member 226 having shin pad 227 at one end. Shin pad mount 222 also includes locking knob 228 with pawl 229, which is resiliently biased to engage teeth 230 of toothed retracting member 226, thereby placing and maintaining shin pad 227 at a desired distance for engaging a patient, as shown in FIG. 21b. In FIG. 21c, there is shown locking knob 228 forced upwards to disengage pawl 229 from toothed retracting member 226 to allow sliding of toothed retracting member 226 within orifice 224. Once the desired distance of shin pad 227 is chosen locking knob 228 is forced downwards and pawl 229 engages a tooth 230 of toothed retracting member 226, to maintain toothed retracting member 226 in place.

As described above, platform 179 of base 172 may be removed to allow a patient to use apparatus 145 as an ambulatory device. As shown in FIGS. 22a-e, platform 179 rests on a pair of brackets 240 which are removably secured to base 172. Platform 179 comprises latches 242 which are slidable to engage appropriately dimensioned slots 244 in brackets 240. Accordingly, platform 179 can be removed from brackets 240 by disengaging latches 242 from slots 244, as shown in FIG. 22b. Brackets 240 are removed from base 172 by unhooking brackets from base 172, as shown in FIG. 22c. To facilitate storage brackets 240 are secured to platform 179 via an attachment means, such as via a magnet, as shown in FIG. 22e.

FIG. 23 shows the basic ergonomics principle behind apparatuses 10 and 145. Patient 250 starts in a seated position, and apparatus 145 is positioned such that a fixed pivot point (A) is created around the knees 252 of patient 250 in order to allow the mid-section 253 of the body 254 to rotate on this point (A). Accordingly, feet 256 of patient 250 are placed on platform 179, and shin pad assembly 220 is adjusted such that shins 258 of patient 250 abut shin pad 227, thereby locking legs 260 to allow knees 252 to become the pivot point (A). Locking legs 260 also minimizes movement during the lifting process. Next, arms 262 of patient 250 are fully extended to grasp one of the handlebar grips 158, 160 or 162, and connect upper body 264 of patient 250 to apparatus 145. With such a configuration achieved, the overall distance handle assembly 146 travels is limited and therefore all the efforts provided by the caregiver during the lifting process needs to be transferred into moving body 254 forward rather than just pulling on arms 262. Therefore, having arms 262 extended allows upper body 264 to become one fixed unit (B).

The overall shape and form of apparatuses 10 and 145 is designed to accommodate these principles. Apparatuses 10 and 145 are designed to allow the caregivers to bring apparatuses 10 and 145 as close to patient 250 as possible while at the same time allowing patient 250 to reach for handlebar grips 158, 160 or 162, and fully extend their arms 262. Accordingly, the shape of handle assembly 146 facilitates lifting of patient 250. The distance that handle assembly 146 travels (path C) matches the overall distance body 255 needs to travel in order to fold up on the fixed pivot point (A). Therefore, angle of rotation 4 can be adjusted such handle assembly 146 provide a suitable travel distance such that body 255 has enough space to fully fold up, and vice versa when lowering a patient.

FIGS. 24a to 24c show the method steps for transferring a patient 250 from an initial seated position to a standing position, with the assistance of caregiver 270.

In yet another implementation, there is shown a seat 300 for supporting a patient 250, in FIGS. 25a-d. Seat 300 comprises two seat members 300a, 300b which are removably attached to opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78 via an attachment bracket 302 comprising clamshell elements 302a, 302b, as shown in FIG. 26. Seat member 300a is secured to a seat hub 304 that is rotatably attached to the attachment bracket 302, and the seat hub 304 is rotatable in a first axis. A seat arm 306 is swivably attached to the seat hub 304 in a second axis that is substantially orthogonal to the first axis, as shown in FIGS. 27a and 27b.

Looking at FIGS. 28a to 28c, in more detail, inner surface 310a of clamshell element 302a comprises plug 312a received by opening 79 of opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78. Correspondingly, inner surface 310b of clamshell element 302b comprises plug 312b which is also received by opening 79 of opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78, such that the two clamshell elements 302a, 302b are retained about the opposed swivable and lockable side support 76 or 78 by a retaining means, such as screws, clamps, etc. For example, clamshell element 302a comprises an orifice 316a extending from an outer surface 317a of clamshell element 302a to inner surface 310a of clamshell element 302a and through plug 312a. Clamshell element 302b comprises an threaded orifice 316b formed in plug 312b, such that a portion of a threaded pin 318a is received by the threaded orifice 316b. Clamshell element 302b also comprises an orifice 319b extending from an outer surface 317b of clamshell element 302b to inner surface 310b of clamshell element 302b and through plug 312b. Clamshell element 302a also comprises an threaded orifice 319a formed in plug 312a, such that a portion of a threaded pin 318b is received by the threaded orifice 319a. Accordingly, the two clamshell elements 302a, 302b are secured together about the opposed swivable and lockable side support 76 or 78 by the threaded pins 318a, 318b.

Seat hub 304 is rotatably attached to attachment bracket 302 via seat hub pin 330. Seat hub 304 comprises seat hub body 332 which hemi-cylindrically shaped with an outer surface wall 333 and a flat inner surface wall 334. A male member 336 projects outwardly from the flat inner surface wall 334 and comprises a channel 337 extending therethrough to the outer surface wall 333.

Pin 330 is inserted into channel 337 and retained within seat hub body 332 and attachment bracket 302. A pin housing 340 is formed within clamshell elements 302a, 302b which receives pin 330. Pin housing 340 is cup-shaped with circumferential wall 342 and bottom 344 with hole 346 through which pin 330 extends through. Accordingly, male member 336 is received by cup-shaped pin housing 340 and pin 330 is inserted into channel 337 and hole 346 such that one portion of pin 330 extends beyond outer surface wall 333 and bottom wall 338. The pin 330 is kept in place within the seat hub body 332 and attachment bracket 302 by c-clips 350, 352, abutting the outer surface wall 333 and exterior bottom wall 338, respectively, and thereby allows rotation of the seat hub body 332 about the pin 330. Rotation of the seat hub body 332 about pin 330 is limited by stop pins 370, 372. Flat inner surface wall 334 of seat hub body 332 comprises travel channel 380 with channel opening 382 and channel end 384; and travel channel 390, opposite travel channel 380, with channel opening 392 and channel end 394. Accordingly, stop pins 370, 372 are received in travel channels 380, 390, respectively, and arrest the rotation of the seat hub body 332 when one of the stop pins 370 or 372 abuts the channel end 384 or 394. Seat hub body 332 also includes a docking station 396 which receives a cylindrical portion 400 of seat arm 306 for rotational movement thereabout, as shown in FIG. 26. Accordingly, a hinge 402 formed by the cylindrical portion 400, the docking station 396 and a rotating seat hub shaft 404 allows the seat arm 306 to rotate about the seat hub shaft 404. Looking at FIGS. 29 and 30, cylindrical portion 400 includes flange 406 and flange 408 which limits rotational movement of cylindrical portion 400. For example, rotation of cylindrical portion 400 in one direction is limited by flange 406 striking pin 41x within seat hub body 332, and flange 408 limits rotation of cylindrical portion 400 in the opposite direction when the flange 408 strikes an edge 412 of seat hub body 332.

A seat arm 306 is swivably attached to the seat hub body 332 at one end 414. A cylindrical body 402 at end 400 is introduced into seat hub body 332. Seat arm 306 further includes a torsion spring (or other resilient member) 410 that is operably connected between seat arm 306 and seat hub body 332 such that seat arm 306 is biased to rotate relative to seat hub body 306 around rotational axis X, whereby seat arm 306 is either biased from the retracted position to the deployed position, or from the deployed position to the retracted position. The torsion spring (or other resilient member) 410 allows the rotating seat arm 306 it to automatically close once folded to the side.

As shown in FIGS. 31a and 31b, another end 416 of seat arm 306 has a seating pad 420 rotatably attached thereto, such that the seating pad 420 is caused to tilt into a sitting position. Adjacent to end 416 is a hinge structure 430 comprising two opposed plates 432a, 432b with holes 434a, 434b which receive seat pad rotating dowel 436. The seating pad 420 comprises two opposed plates 440a, 440b with holes 442a, 442b, and the two opposed plates 440a, 440b are received between the two opposed plates 432a, 432b, respectively. Accordingly, seat pad rotating dowel 436 is inserted into holes 434a, 434b and holes 442a, 442b, such that seating pad 420 rotates about seat pad rotating dowel 445. The opposed plates 440a, 440b of seating pad 420 also include a seating pad hard stop pin 446 extending therebetween, with ends 448a, 448b extending past opposed plates 440a, 440b. Ends 448a, 448b are configured to strike an edge 450a, 450b of opposed plates 432a, 432b, respectively, thereby arresting rotation of the seating pad 420 beyond a desired angle.

In operation, when not in use the two seat members 300a, 300b are in a folded position, in which the seating pad 420 is substantially parallel to an exterior side of the opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78. In the folded position, the seating pad 420 is substantially parallel to the attachment bracket 302 and the seat arm 302, as shown in FIG. 32a. With the patient 250 between the opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78, the seating pad 420 is urged away from the folded position by applying a force, as shown in FIG. 32b. The force causes the cylindrical portion 400 of seat arm 306 to rotate about the seat hub shaft 404 from the exterior side of the opposed swivable and lockable side supports 76, 78 towards the side of the patient. The seating pad swings outwardly until the flange 406 strikes striking pin 41x within seat hub body 332 and flange 408 strikes edge 412 of seat hub body 332, thereby arresting the rotational movement of cylindrical portion 400, as shown in FIG. 32c and FIG. 32d. Next, a force is applied on the seating pad 420 which causes the seat hub body 332 to rotate about the pin 330, as shown in FIG. 32e. The seat hub body 332 rotates until the stop pin 370 abuts the channel end 384, and stop pin 372 abuts the channel end 394, thereby stopping the rotation of the seat hub body 332, and the seat arm 306 attached thereto, as shown in FIG. 32f FIG. 33 shows a side view of the attachment bracket 302 and the seat arm 306; and FIG. 34 shows a sectional view of the attachment bracket 302 and the seat arm 306, taken along line B-B in FIG. 33.

From the configuration shown in FIG. 32f, the seating pad 420 is caused to tilt to a sitting position by rotating the seating pad 420 counter-clockwise until the ends 448a, 448b of seating pad hard stop pin 446 strike the edges 450a, 450b of opposed plates 432a, 432b of the hinge structure 430 on seat arm 306, as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31. Accordingly, the ends 448a, 448b of seating pad hard stop pin 446 act as a hard stop to prevent the seating pad 420 from rotating beyond the desired angle for supporting the patient 250.

When the seating pad 420 is in use and rotated on the side of the patient 250, a rotating hub-hard stop pin prevents the rotating seat arm 302 from over travel and stops it at a substantially 90° angle, as shown by FIG. 36. The flange 408 extending off the cylindrical portion 400 of the seat arm 306 prevents the seating pad 420 from opening in the opposite direction when in use by the patient, as shown by FIGS. 35 and 36. Accordingly, these two hard stops combined allow the seat arm 306 to remain solid and locked in both directions.

FIGS. 37a to 37c show the mobility apparatus with an auxiliary seat in operation.

Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific exemplary implementations. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all the claims. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or device that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or device. Further, no element described herein is required for the practice of the invention unless expressly described as “essential” or “critical.”

The preceding detailed description of exemplary implementations of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which show the exemplary implementation by way of illustration. While these exemplary implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other exemplary implementations may be realized and that logical and mechanical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the steps recited in any of the method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented. Thus, the preceding detailed description is presented for purposes of illustration only and not of limitation, and the scope of the invention is defined by the preceding description, and with respect to the attached claims. others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A mobility apparatus comprising: a handle assembly;a base having casters; a seat comprising: an attachment bracket;a seat hub rotatably attached to the attachment bracket in a first axis;a first locking mechanism operable to place the seat hub between a first position and a second position;a seat arm swivably attached to the seat hub in a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially orthogonal to the first axis;a seating pad rotatably attached to the seat arm in a third axis, wherein the seating pad is caused to pivot into a sitting position;a second locking mechanism operable to maintain the seating pad in the sitting position.a third locking mechanism operable to place the handle assembly into a plurality of positions corresponding to an operating mode of the apparatus, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;wherein the third locking mechanism comprises: a hub fixedly secured to the base, the hub comprising attachment means for the handle assembly;a hub ring rotatably secured within the hub;a biased sliding lock pin;a lock track comprising a plurality of detent positions engageable by the biased sliding lock pin to place the handle assembly into the plurality of positions, and maintain the handle assembly in one of the plurality of positions;a gas spring mechanism coupled to the hub ring;an actuating mechanism comprising a hand operated lever coupled to the biased sliding lock pin and operable to cause the biased sliding lock pin in the plurality of detent positions; anda braking mechanism for the casters, wherein the braking mechanism is operable to lock and unlock the casters simultaneously.

2. The mobility apparatus of claim 1, wherein the seat hub is rotatably attached to attachment bracket by a seat hub pin.

3. The mobility apparatus of claim 2, wherein a seat hub body comprises at least one travel channel with a channel opening and channel end, and the attachment bracket comprises at least one stop pin received in the at least one travel channel.

4. The mobility apparatus of claim 3, wherein the seat hub body rotates until channel end abuts the at least one stop pin.

5. The mobility apparatus of claim 4, wherein the seat arm comprises one end swivably attached to the seat hub and a second end comprising a hinge structure carrying the seating pad.

6. The mobility apparatus of claim 5, wherein the seat arm comprises a flange at the one end, wherein the flange is caused to abut an edge of the seat hub body to arrest rotation of the seat arm.

7. The mobility apparatus of claim 5, wherein the seat hub body comprises a hard stop pin configured to arrest rotation of the seat arm.

8. The mobility apparatus of claim 5, wherein the hinge structure comprising two first opposed plates extending from a surface of the seat arm, the two first opposed plates comprising first holes.

9. The mobility apparatus of claim 8, wherein the seating pad comprises two second opposed plates with second holes, wherein the second opposed plates are received between the first opposed plates, and a seat pad rotating dowel is received by the first holes and the second holes, such that the seating pad rotates about the seat pad rotating dowel.

10. The mobility apparatus of claim 9, wherein the two second opposed plates comprises a seating pad hard stop pin extending therebetween, the seating pad hard stop pin comprising ends extending beyond an outer surface of each of the two second opposed plates, and wherein the ends are configured to strike an edge of two first opposed plates to stop rotation of the seating pad beyond a desired angle.

11. A seat for a mobility apparatus, the seat comprising: an attachment bracket;a seat hub rotatably attached to the attachment bracket in a first axis;a first locking mechanism operable to place the seat hub between a first position and a second position;a seat arm swivably attached to the seat hub in a second axis, wherein the second axis is substantially orthogonal to the first axis;a seating pad rotatably attached to the seat arm in a third axis, wherein the seating pad is caused to pivot into a sitting position; anda second locking mechanism operable to maintain the seating pad in the sitting position.

12. The seat of claim 11, wherein the seat hub is rotatably attached to attachment bracket by a seat hub pin.

13. The seat of claim 12, wherein a seat hub body comprises at least one travel channel with a channel opening and channel end, and the attachment bracket comprises at least one stop pin received in the at least one travel channel.

14. The seat of claim 13, wherein the seat hub body rotates until channel end abuts the at least one stop pin.

15. The seat of claim 14, wherein the seat arm comprises one end swivably attached to the seat hub and a second end comprising a hinge structure carrying the seating pad.

16. The seat of claim 15, wherein the seat arm comprises a flange at the one end, wherein the flange is caused to abut an edge of the seat hub body to arrest rotation of the seat arm.

17. The seat of claim 15, wherein the seat hub body comprises a hard stop pin configured to arrest rotation of the seat arm.

18. The seat of claim 15, wherein the hinge structure comprising two first opposed plates extending from a surface of the seat arm, the two first opposed plates comprising first holes.

19. The seat of claim 18, wherein the seating pad comprises two second opposed plates with second holes, wherein the second opposed plates are received between the first opposed plates, and a seat pad rotating dowel is received by the first holes and the second holes, such that the seating pad rotates about the seat pad rotating dowel.

20. The seat of claim 19, wherein the two second opposed plates comprises a seating pad hard stop pin extending therebetween, the seating pad hard stop pin comprising ends extending beyond an outer surface of each of the two second opposed plates, and wherein the ends are configured to strike an edge of two first opposed plates to stop rotation of the seating pad beyond a desired angle.