Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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1 A MOBILE SUPPORT ASSEMBLY
2
3 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
4 Claim of Priority
The present application is a continuation-in-part patent
6 application of currently pending U.S. patent application having
7 Ser. No. 13/838,176, filed on March 15, 2013; which is a
8 continuation-in-part patent application U.S. patent application
9 having Ser. No. 13/090,002 filed April 19, 2011, which has matured
into U.S. Pat. No. 8,313,116 on November 20, 2012, which is a
11
continuation patent application of U.S. patent application having
12 Ser. No. 11/980,340 filed October 30, 2007, which has matured into
13 U.S. Pat. No. 7,926,834 on April 19, 2011, which is a continuation
14 patent application of previously filed, application having Ser. No.
11/581,762 which was filed on Oct. 16, 2006 now abandoned, which is
16 a continuation-in-part application of previously filed, application
17
having Ser. No. 11/343,299, which was filed on Jan. 31, 2006 now
18 U.S. Pat. No. 7,540,527, which claims priority to U.S. patent
19
application having Ser. No. 11/129,569 filed May 13, 2005, which
has matured into U.S. Pat. No. 7,066,484 on Jun. 27, 2006, which is
21 a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application having Ser. No.
22
10/680,596 filed Oct. 7, 2003, which has matured into U.S. Pat. No.
23 7,073,801 on Jul. 11, 2006, wherein all of the above are
24 incorporated herein in their entirety by reference.
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1 Field of the Invention
2 This invention is directed to a mobile support assembly which is
3 structured to be used as a walker/wheelchair combination or as a
4 walker with a seat structure and may be selectively disposed into a
collapsed orientation for storage, transport, shipment, etc. when
6 not in use or in an operative orientation when intended for use.
7 When in the collapsed orientation the assembly will be reduced in
8 dimension and the configuration thereof will be altered from that
9 when in the operative position.
11 DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
12
Numerous individuals suffer from a lack of mobility because of
13 age, medical conditions or the like. As a result, such individuals
14 frequently require some type of mechanical aid or device in order
to facilitate their ability to move from one location to the next.
16 Known devices which are readily available on the commercial market
17
include "walker" assemblies which typically allow an individual to
18 support oneself in an upright, substantially stable orientation
19 while standing or walking. For the less infirmed, known walker
assemblies allow the individual to safely traverse over both
21
interior and exterior support surfaces, such as floors, sidewalks,
22 streets, etc. Also, conventionally structured walkers may or may
23 not include supporting wheel assemblies. When such wheel assemblies
24 are present they may facilitate the mobility of a user. However,
the presence of such wheel assemblies, depending on their
2
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1 structural features and also on whether or not there is safety
2 measures associated therewith, may lessen the stability of the
3 walker. This is especially true when all four legs of the walker
4 frame include a wheel, roller or like structure attached to the
lower end thereof.
6 Yet
another category of devices used to facilitate the
7 mobility of individuals that may have more significant physical
8 limitations include mobile chair structures or "wheelchairs". An
9
increased use of the wheelchair has occurred in recent years, due
at least in part, to an increasingly aging population. As such, the
11 development of the wheelchair, in various forms, has progressed
12 from the smaller, less bulky wheelchair structures of somewhat
13 lightweight construction to the heavier, larger chair assemblies.
14 In addition, more sophisticated wheelchair designs are motorized
and while more expensive, they are still relatively common.
16 Clearly, the larger more complex and/or motorized wheelchair
17 assemblies have distinct advantages in terms of facilitating
18 mobility without requiring significant manual exertion by the user.
19 In addition, control assemblies associated with the steering and
operation of the more sophisticated motorized wheelchair structures
21 are capable of allowing the substantially independent use thereof
22 by individuals who are significantly disabled and are almost
23 totally paralyzed.
24
Mobile support structures including both walkers and
wheelchairs have independently developed to a point where their use
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I is more efficient and reliable. However, there appears to be an
2 absence of a combined structure having multi-use capabilities such
3 that a single mobile support assembly may be utilized as both a
4 walker and a wheelchair by assuming different orientations of the
structural components of which such an assembly is comprised.
6 Accordingly, despite the developments and advancements in mobility
7 aiding devices of the type set forth above, there is still a need
8 for an improved mobile support assembly which provides significant
9 support and stability, whether used as a walker and/or a
wheelchair. A proposed mobility aid structured to satisfy such need
11 should be capable of being easily and quickly configured into an
12 operative position for use and possibly into a collapsed position
13 for storage.
14
Further, a proposed multi-use mobile support assembly should
have its various structural components cooperatively configured,
16 disposed and structured such that selective positioning thereof
17 into a plurality of different orientations is easily accomplished.
18 As such, the mobile support assembly may be converted for use as a
19 walker or a wheelchair assembly. In addition, such a proposed
multi-use mobile support assembly could also have additional,
21
supplementary features such that when the support assembly is in a
22 walker configuration it is also structured to allow at least
23 temporary support of a user in a seated orientation, wherein the
24 user may require temporary, short term rest periods while not
requiring the use of a wheelchair, per se. If developed, such a
4
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1 proposed, multi-use mobile support assembly should comprise a
2 frame, as well as other operative components which are
3 cooperatively structured and relatively operable to allow selective
4 use of the support assembly as either a walker or a wheelchair
assembly.
6
7 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
8 In at least one of a plurality of preferred embodiments a
9 foldable walker provides an apparatus for assisting a user with
mobility. The foldable walker comprises a frame selectively
11 positionable between an operative orientation and a stored
12 orientation. The frame of the walker assembly is at least partially
13 defined by a front leg assembly, including at least a first front
14 leg, and rear leg assembly, including at least a first rear leg
connected to the first front leg. The first rear leg includes an
16 upper member having a first end and a second end and a lower member
17 having a first end and a second end. The first end of the upper
18 member is pivotally connected to the first end of the lower member,
19 and the lower member is preferably pivotal between an extended use
position and a folded storage position.
21 In addition, yet another preferred embodiment of the present
22 invention comprises the walker assembly including a front wheel
23 assembly connected to the front leg assembly and a rear wheel
24 assembly connected to the rear leg assembly. Additional structural
features associated with the front and rear wheel assemblies are
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1 their ability to be selectively disposed in a position which
2 reduces at least the longitudinal dimension and overall
3 configuration of the walker assembly when in a stored orientation.
4 More specifically, the various embodiments of a walker assembly of
the present invention include the front wheel assembly being
6 removably secured to the front leg assembly. Similarly, the rear
7 wheel assembly can be connected to at least a portion of the rear
8 leg assembly such that it is movable therewith into and out of a
9 folded storage position. Alternatively, the rear wheel assembly may
be disconnected from the rear leg assembly. In either structural
11 variation the configuration and at least the longitudinal dimension
12 of the frame of the walker assembly is further reduced in order to
13 facilitate storage and transport of the walker assembly.
14
Yet additional structural features include a handle assembly
which may be adjustably and/or removably secured to the frame of
16 one or more embodiments of the walker assembly. Moreover, a seat is
17 movably connected to the frame and may be associated with a storage
18 compartment. As such, the seat may be selectively disposed in a
19 position such that it supports the user of the walker assembly.
When in such a supporting position, the seat overlies and at least
21 partially covers an access opening of a storage compartment. Other
22 associated structural features may include a backrest disposed and
23 structured to support the back of a user when supported in a seated
24 position on the seat of the walker assembly. The structural
features of the seat, storage compartment and backrest are such as
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1 to further facilitate the compact reduction in configuration and
2 dimension of the walker assembly when disposed in the
3 aforementioned stored orientation so as to facilitate storage
4 and/or transport of the walker assembly, as desired.
Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention
6 comprises a mobile support assembly which is structured to have
7 multi-use capabilities and which is also capable of being
8
selectively disposed between operative and stored orientations, as
9 with the above described embodiments. More specifically, the mobile
support assembly of this preferred embodiment is capable of being
11 selectively used as either a walker or a wheelchair dependent on
12 the orientation of the frame and/or one or more components
13 associated with the frame. Moreover, the frame comprises at least
14 one adjustable portion or adjustable frame segment which is
partially rotatable or pivotal relative to a remainder of the
16
frame. Therefore, the frame generally and the adjustable portion or
17 adjustable frame segment specifically can be selectively disposed
18 in either a first orientation or a second orientation. The
19 disposition of the frame and/or adjustable frame segment in the
first orientation enables the use of the mobile support assembly as
21 a walker, wherein the disposition of the frame and/or adjustable
22 portion or frame segment in the second orientation enables the use
23 of the mobile support assembly as a wheelchair.
24
Additional structural and operative features of this preferred
embodiment of the mobile support assembly comprise the frame also
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*
1 including two side frame segments which are at least partially
2 configured, structured and disposed to define a portion of a chair
3 assembly. The chair assembly comprises the main support for an
4 individual disposed in a seated orientation, when the mobile
support assembly is in the second orientation and is used as a
6 wheelchair. Further, the chair assembly comprises a seat and a back
7 support which are disposed and structured to provide the proper
8 support and at least a certain degree of comfort to a seated
9 individual. The mobility of the support assembly of this preferred
embodiment is facilitated by the frame including a front leg
11 assembly and a rear leg assembly each of which is connected to a
12 wheel assembly. The wheel assembly comprises a plurality of wheels
13 equal in number to the number of legs which comprise the front and
14 rear wheel assemblies. Therefore, the wheel assembly movably
supports the mobile support assembly, when utilized as either a
16 walker or a wheelchair, over any of a variety of different ground
17 or other support surfaces.
18
Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention
19 comprises a mobile support assembly primarily in the form of a
walker assembly which, as with previously described embodiments,
21 includes a frame structured to facilitate stable travel of an
22 individual over a variety of different surfaces. In addition, the
23 frame includes a front leg assembly and a rear leg assembly each
24 preferably including two spaced apart legs. The front and rear leg
assemblies are moveably interconnected to one another such that the
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1 frame may be selectively disposed into either an operative
2 orientation or a stored orientation. When in the operative
3 orientation, the front and rear leg assemblies are positioned to
4 facilitate stable support and/or travel of an individual on and
over a variety of different surfaces.
6 When in the stored orientation, the front and rear leg
7 assemblies are folded or otherwise relatively disposed so as to be
8 at least partially aligned or coextensive. Therefore the stored
9 orientation allows the frame to assume at least a reduced
transverse dimension. Moreover, the stored orientation may also
11 facilitate the frame assuming a reduced longitudinal dimension by a
12 selected adjustment of the one or more wheel assemblies relative to
13 the leg assemblies to which they are connected. In addition, the
14 stored orientation of the frame may also be at least partially
defined by an at least partial detachment of one or more of the
16 wheel assemblies from their corresponding leg assemblies to further
17 accomplish a reduced longitudinal dimension of the frame.
18 Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
19 directed to a mobile support assembly which is operative to
facilitate the movable support of an individual over any of a
21 variety of different surfaces. When the individual is in a
22 standing, walking orientation this preferred embodiment serves as a
23 "walker" operatively similar to the additional preferred
24 embodiments as set forth herein. In contrast, this preferred
embodiment incorporates a chair comprising a seat and a backrest
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1 intended to support an individual in a substantially seated
2 orientation, wherein the mobile support assembly may move or remain
3 stationary when an individual is seated.
4 Accordingly, the mobile support assembly of this preferred
embodiment of the present invention includes a frame assembly
6 structured to be selectively positioned between an operative
7 orientation and a collapsed orientation. As such, the frame
8 assembly includes two side frame assemblies each including support
9 wheels connected thereto and disposed to engage the surface over
which the mobile support assembly travels. Moreover, each side
11 frame assembly includes a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel
12 assembly both of which may be removably connected to the
13 corresponding side assembly so as to facilitate the detachment and
14 reduction in size and change in configuration when in the
aforementioned collapsed orientation.
16 Each of the two side assemblies are moveably and adjustably
17 connected to one another by adjustable linkage. More specifically,
18 the adjustable linkage includes two elongated links pivotally or
19 rotationally interconnected intermediate their opposite ends.
Further each of the elongated link members include a first opposite
21 end and a second opposite end, wherein the first and second
22 opposite ends of each elongated link member is movably connected to
23 a different one of the side assemblies. When in the collapsed
24 orientation, the size and configuration of the frame is
significantly altered so as to be sufficiently reduced and/or
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1 changed to facilitate transport and/or travel thereof. In contrast,
2 in the operative position the frame of the mobile support assembly
3 can be used as a walker and/or to support an individual in a seated
4 orientation as also indicated above.
Selective disposition between the operative and collapsed
6 orientations is accomplished by interaction of the two movably
7 interconnected, elongated link members which at least partially
8 define an adjustment linkage. Therefore, the operative orientation
9 comprises a substantially maximum lateral spacing of the two side
assemblies away from one another due to the two elongated link
11 members being disposed in a laterally extended or expanded
12 orientation between the side assemblies. As such, the first
13 opposite ends and the second opposite ends of the link members are
14 disposed a maximum lateral spacing from one another, as are the
side assemblies to which the link members are attached.
16 In contrast, the collapsed orientation comprises a
17 substantially adjacent disposition of the two side assemblies into
18 closer relative spacing than the maximum lateral spacing of the
19 side assemblies, when in the operative orientation. The collapsed
orientation further comprises the two elongated link members of the
21 adjustable linkage being disposed in a substantially adjacent,
22 longitudinally extended alignment or orientation. Therefore, when
23 in the collapsed orientation the two side assemblies are brought
24 much closer together thereby reducing the transverse dimension of
the frame assembly. Further the collapsed orientation may also be
11
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1 defined by a disconnection of the front and/or rear wheel
2 assemblies from one or both of the two side assemblies. Similarly
3 handle members extending outwardly, at selectively variable
4 distances, from each of the two side assemblies, may also be
detached to further reduce the overall size and/or configuration of
6 the frame when in the collapsed orientation.
7 Additional structural features include the chair comprising
8 the aforementioned seat cooperatively disposed relative to a
9 backrest, so as to concurrently support an individual when seated.
Both the seat and the backrest may be formed of a flexible material
11 and are disposed in interconnected relation between each of the
12 side assemblies so as to move therewith between the operative and
13 collapsed orientations. Accordingly, both the seat and the
14 backrest, being flexible, will fold and thereby effectively
collapse as the two side assemblies are selectively disposed in the
16 closely spaced, substantially adjacent relation to one another when
17 in the collapsed orientation. In contrast both the seat and the
18 backrest will be outwardly and/or longitudinally extended, such
19 that sufficient tension will be exerted thereon to facilitate their
support of corresponding portions of the individual's body.
21 Yet additional structural features of this preferred
22 embodiment of the mobile support assembly include a storage
23 container also interconnected between laterally spaced apart side
24 assemblies in a supported orientation. The storage compartment may
also be formed of a flexible material such that it collapses into a
12
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1 reduced size and/or configuration upon the two side assemblies
2 being brought into the closer laterally spaced relation, as they
3 are selectively positioned in the aforementioned collapsed
4 orientation.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the
6 present invention will become clearer when the drawings as well as
7 the detailed description are taken into consideration.
8
9 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present
11 invention, reference should be had to the following detailed
12 description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in
13 which:
14
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment, among
others, of a foldable walker in an operative position.
16
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the foldable walker as
17 shown in Figure 1.
18
Figure 3 is a side view of the foldable walker shown in Figure
19 1.
Figures 4a and 4b are front and side views of an upper portion
21 of
an embodiment of a hinge assembly as used on the foldable walker
22 shown in Figure 1.
23
Figures 5a and 5b are front and side views of a lower portion
24 of an embodiment of a hinge assembly as used on the foldable walker
shown in Figure 1.
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1
Figures 6a-6d are partial, cutaway side views of an embodiment
2 of a hinge assembly, including upper and lower portions as shown in
3 Figures 4a-4b and 5a-5b, respectively, as used with the foldable
4 walker shown in Figure 1.
Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of the foldable walker
6 shown in Figure 1, when partially folded as it is being disposed
7 into a stored orientation.
8
Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the foldable walker
9 shown in Figure 1, when fully folded and in the stored orientation.
Figure 9 is a top plan view of a retaining connector used in
11 at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention to
12 retain a wheel assembly in connected relation to a corresponding
13 leg assembly.
14
Figure 10 is a front view in partial cutaway of corresponding
connecting portions of the front and/or rear leg assemblies with
16 the front and/or rear wheel assemblies.
17
Figure 11 is a side view in partial cutaway of the embodiment
18 of Figure 10.
19
Figure 12 is a front view in partial cutaway of the
embodiments of Figures 10 and 11 in a connected or assembled
21 position.
22
Figure 13 is a front view in partial cutaway of the embodiment
23 of
Figure 12 with the retaining connector, represented in Figure 9,
24 disposed in a retaining position relative to the correspondingly
connected leg and wheel assemblies.
14
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1 Figure 14 is a sectional view along line 14-14 of Figure 13.
2 Figure 15 is a front perspective view of yet another preferred
3 embodiment of the present invention directed to a multi-use mobile
4 support assembly capable of being used as either a walker or a
wheelchair.
6 Figure 16 is a side perspective view of the embodiment of
7 Figure 1, wherein the mobile support assembly has assumed a first
8 orientation enabling its use as a walker.
9 Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of
Figure 16.
11 Figure 18 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of portions of
12 a wheel assembly associated with the mobile support assembly and a
13 foot pedal or support which may be associated therewith.
14 Figure 19 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of one handle
of an adjustable handle assembly, the position of which may be
16 selectively varied.
17 Figure 20 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
18 embodiment of the present invention structured to efficiently
19 assume a compact orientation of significantly reduced size so as to
facilitate storage and/or transport.
21 Figure 21 is a perspective view in detail of an armrest
22 associated with the preferred embodiment of Figure 20 as well as
23 other embodiments described hereinafter.
24 Figure 22 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of the
embodiment of Figure 20, wherein certain structural components
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1 thereof are disposed in a collapsed and compact orientation.
2
Figure 23 is a detailed view in partial cutaway of a connector
3 associated with the collapsible nature of the embodiment of Figure
4 22.
Figure 24 is a perspective view in detail of one of two side
6 frame segments connected to the handle assembly and an armrest of
7 the embodiment of Figure 20.
8
Figure 25 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
9 embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present invention,
in the form of a walker and including a frame and associated
11 components, absent the attachment of normally included wheel
12 assemblies.
13
Figure 26 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of
14 Figure 25.
Figure 27 is a side view of the embodiment of Figures 25 and
16 26.
17
Figure 28 is a perspective view in partial cutaway of portions
18 of both front and rear leg assemblies of the embodiments of Figures
19 25
through 27 with corresponding wheel assemblies in a position to
be mounted thereon.
21
Figure 29 is a top sectional view of another embodiment of a
22 retaining connector similar to but distinguishable from the
23 embodiment of Figures 13 and 14.
24
Figure 30 is a front view in partial cutaway of corresponding
connecting portions of the front and/or rear leg assemblies with
16
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1 the front and/or rear wheel assemblies of the embodiment of Figures
2 25 through 28.
3 Figure 31 is a side view in partial cutaway of the embodiment
4 of Figure 30.
Figure 32 is a front view in partial cutaway of the embodiment
6 of Figures 30 and 31 in a connected or assembled position.
7 Figure 33 is a side view in partial cutaway of a bracket
8 assembly associated with the front and rear leg assemblies of the
9 embodiment of Figures 25 through 29, when the support assembly is
in an operative orientation.
11 Figure 34 is a top end view of the embodiment of Figure 33
12 wherein the bracket assembly is in a folded position so as to
13 dispose the support assembly of the embodiment of Figures 25
14 through 29 in a stored orientation.
Figure 35 is a perspective view of yet another preferred
16 embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present invention.
17 Figure 36 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1
18 in exploded form.
19 Figure 37 is a front view of the mobile support assembly of
the present invention as represented in the embodiment of Figures
21 35 and 36.
22 Figure 38 is a rear perspective view in partial cutaway
23 representing the mobile support assembly being positioned from the
24 operative orientation of Figure 1 into a collapse orientation.
Figure 39 is a rear perspective view in partial cutaway of the
17
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1 mobile support assembly of the embodiment of Figure 38 in a closer
2 laterally spaced position to at least partially define the
3 collapsed orientation.
4 Like
reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the
several views of the drawings.
6
7 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
8
Referring now in more detail to the drawings, Figures 1-3
9 illustrate an embodiment of a foldable walker 100 in an operative
orientation. As shown, the foldable walker 100 comprises a frame at
11 least partially defined by a front leg assembly and a rear leg
12 assembly. More specifically, the front leg assembly comprises a
13 first front leg 110a and a second front leg 110b secured to each
14 other by at least a first cross member 128. The first front leg
110a and a second front leg 110b are each pivotally connected to
16 the rear leg assembly, which comprises a first rear leg 120a and a
17
second rear leg 120b, respectively. The first and second rear legs
18 120a, 120b each include an upper member or portion 122a, 122b,
19 which in at least one preferred embodiment, are hingedly attached
to a respective lower member or portion 130a, 130b by hinge
21 assemblies 150a, 150b, respectively, as is discussed in greater
22 detail hereinafter. Preferably, the first upper member 122a and a
23 second upper member 122b are connected by a second cross member 136
24 which is positioned so as to be the same height above a support
surface beneath the foldable walker 100 as the first cross member
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1 128. Additional cross members, such as cross member 129, may
2 (though not necessarily in all embodiments) be provided between the
3 first and second front legs 110a, 110b and the first and second
4 upper members 122a, 122b to provide additional stability to the
foldable walker 100. Preferably, the first cross member 128, the
6 second cross member 136, and cross member 129 are welded to
7 brackets 127 which are in turn welded to their respective legs of
8 the foldable walker 100. Of course, other connection structures are
9 also considered to be within the scope of the present invention.
Further, the first and second front legs 110a, 110b are preferably
11 connected to the first and second upper members 122a, 122b,
12 respectively, by folding brackets 116a and 116b. The first and
13 second folding brackets 116a, 116b are preferably connected to each
14 other with a tie rod 118 and are configured such that the folding
brackets 116a, 116b only collapse when the tie rod 118 is pushed
16 upwardly away from the support surface beneath the foldable walker
17 100.
18
A previously noted, and as best shown in Figure 2, the first
19 and second upper members or portions 122a, 122b are hingably
connected to the first and second lower members or portions 130a,
21
130b by first and second hinge assemblies 150a, 150b, respectively.
22 For purposes of clarity, only the first rear leg 120a will be
23 described, it being understood that the second rear leg 120b has
24 equivalent structural and operative features. As shown, the second
end 126a of the first upper member 122a is preferably rotatably
19
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1 connected through a pivot structure, such as a pivot assembly 125a,
2 to the front leg 110a. Similarly, pivot assembly 125b rotatably
3 connects the second end 126b to the second front leg 110b. The
4 upper portion 152a (Figures 4a and 4b) of the first hinge assembly
150a is secured to the first end 124a of the upper member 122a.
6 Similarly, the lower portion 160a (Figures 5a and 5b) is mounted to
7 the first end 132a of the first lower member 130a. By passing an
8 axle 166 through corresponding axle apertures 159a in the upper
9 portion 152a and a corresponding axle channel 166a in the lower
portion 160a, the upper and lower portions 152a, 160a are hingably
11 secured to each other. As such, the first lower member 130a is
12 secured to the first member 122a, as shown in Figures 1-3. As shown
13 in Figures 6a-6d, the lower portion 160a includes a biased locking
14 pin 170 that is threadably secured to a low profile button 172 to
facilitate operating the first hinge assembly 150a. As well, the
16 locking pin 170 is biased by a spring 174. Operations of the first
17 and second hinge assemblies 150a, 150b and the foldable walker 100
18 are discussed in greater detail hereinafter.
19
Again referring to Figures 1-3, preferred embodiments of the
foldable walker 100, when in the operative orientation as shown,
21 may include a seat 142 movably connected to and supported by the
22 first and second cross members 128, 136. As represented, the seat
23
assembly 142 is in a supporting position for allowing a user to be
24 seated thereon. A backrest 144 supported between the first and
second front legs 110a, 110b may also be disposed in supporting
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1 relation to the back of a seated user and therefore may include a
2 cushion or pad 146 for the comfort of the user. Preferably, the
3 seat assembly 142 is configured to rotate about the first cross
4 member 128 such that the seat 142 can be rotated toward the
backrest 144 and be disposed in substantially confronting relation
6 thereto, when the frame of the walker assembly is in the stored
7 orientation of Figures 7 and 8.
8 When
so disposed, an interior of a storage compartment 148
9 normally disposed beneath the seat 142 is accessible and exposed.
Preferably, the storage compartment 148 is supported by the first
11 and second cross members 128, 136 and is formed of a flexible
12 material secured to the first and second cross members 128, 136
13 with a plurality of snaps 149 that permit the storage compartment
14 148
to be removed. In a preferred embodiment the flexibility of the
storage compartment 148 is such as to be disposed in an expanded
16 position when the frame is in the operative orientation of Figures
17 1-3 and in a collapsed position, between the front and rear leg
18
assemblies, when the frame is in the stored position of Figure 8.
19 However, other embodiments are envisioned wherein the storage
compartment 148 comprises a wire mesh basket or other like
21 structure.
22 As
represented through out the accompanying Figures, the
23 walker assembly 100 preferably includes a front wheel assembly
24 comprising wheel structures 188 and a rear wheel assembly
comprising wheel structures 180. More specifically, first and
21
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1 second front legs 110a, 110b each include a different one of the
2 front wheel structures 188 disposed at the second end 114a, 114b of
3 each leg. As shown, front wheel structures 188 are preferably
4 caster-mounted such that they are fully rotatable about the first
and second front legs 110a, 110b, thereby increasing the
6 maneuverability of the foldable walker assembly 100. The first and
7 second rear legs 120a, 120b are each connected to one of the rear
8 wheel structures 180 which are disposed on the second end 134a,
9 134b of the first and second lower members or portions 130a, 130b.
Preferably, the rear wheel assemblies 180 are not caster-mounted
11 and therefore do not pivot about the first and second rear legs
12 120a, 120b.
13
As shown in Figures 1-3, at least one preferred embodiment of
14 the foldable walker assembly 100 is configured to assist a user to
walk while the first and second lower members or portions 130a,
16 130b are locked in their fully extended use position by virtue of
17 the structural features of hinge assemblies 150a and 150b. For ease
18 of description, only the first hinge assembly 150a is discussed, it
19 being understood that the hinge assembly 150b is the duplicate
and/or structural equivalent thereof. During use, first hinge
21 assembly 150a is configured as shown in Figure 6a, as viewed from
22 the front of the walker 100. The core 162 of lower portion 160a is
23 disposed within sleeve 154 of the upper portion 152a. The core 162
24 is secured in position by a locking pin 170 that extends through
both the upper portion 152a and a lower portion 160a. As shown,
22
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1 when the core 162 is properly seated within the sleeve 154, a
2 locking channel 164 that houses the biased locking pin 170 aligns
3 with a locking aperture 156 formed in the sleeve 154. The locking
4 channel 164 also houses a spring 174, which biases the locking pin
170 such that a portion of the locking pin 170 extends outwardly
6 from the locking channel 164 and engages the locking aperture 156.
7 When
it is desired to transport or store the walker assembly
8 100, the transverse dimension of the walker assembly 100 may be
9 reduced by folding it into a compact configuration. Moreover,
folding of the walker assembly 100 from the operative orientation
11 of
Figures 1-3, wherein the front and rear leg assemblies are in a
12 substantially angular orientation relative to one another, into the
13 stored orientation of Figures 7 and 8, may be accomplished by the
14 user first pushing upwardly on one of the folding brackets 116a,
116b or the tie rod 118. As the tie rod 118 moves upwardly the
16 first and second rear legs 120a, 120b rotate toward the first and
17 second front legs 110a, 110b about the pivot points adjacent the
18
second ends 126a, 126b of the first and second upper members 122a,
19 122b. The first and second rear legs 120a, 120b will rotate
inwardly until the frame of the walker assembly is configured in
21 the manner shown in Figures 7 and 8 wherein the front and rear leg
22 assemblies are substantially aligned or at least partially aligned
23
along the length of the frame. The walker is shown in Figures 7 and
24 8 without the storage compartment 148 in order to more clearly show
the folding operation.
23
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1 To
further reduce the longitudinal dimension of the foldable
2 walker 100, a user can fold the lower portions 130a, 130b of the
3 first and second rear legs 120a, 120b and their associated rear
4 wheel assemblies 180 inwardly toward one another. When in such a
folded position, the lower portions 130a and 130b as well as their
6 corresponding wheel assemblies 180 are disposed in substantially
7
overlapping relation to one another, as represented in Figure 8. In
8 order to fold first lower member 130a into storage position, the
9 user first pulls button 172 inwardly toward the center line of the
foldable walker 100. In doing so, the user compresses the spring
11 174 and causes the locking pin 170 to be disengaged from the
12 locking aperture 156 of the upper portion 152a, as shown in Figure
13 6b. After the locking pin 170 is disengaged from the locking
14 aperture 156 the lower portion 160a is pivotal about the axis 166
(Figure 6c), thereby allowing lower member 130a to be swung or
16 pivoted from a coaxially aligned relation with an upper portion of
17 the rear leg 120a, as represented in Figure V, into its storage
18 position as set forth above and as also shown in Figure 8. Similar
19
steps are performed on the second hinge assembly 150b so that lower
member 130b can be swung into its storage position.
21 Once
a user releases the button 172, the spring 174 causes the
22 locking pin 170 to be urged outwardly from the core 162 into its
23
fully extended position. To lock the wheels in place for use once
24 again, the user may pivot the first lower member 130a downwardly
from its storage position until the locking pin 170 encounters
24
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1 damming surface 158, as shown in Figure 6d. As lower member 130a
2 continues to be rotated into alignment with upper member 122a, the
3 locking pin 170 travels along the camming surface 158, subsequently
4 causing the spring 174 to be compressed and the button 172 to be
urged away from the lower portion 160a of the first hinge assembly
6 150a. Eventually, the locking pin 170 encounters the locking
7 aperture 156 and extends therethrough because of the biasing effect
8 of the spring 174, as shown in Figure 6a. After the lower member
9 130b has been similarly positioned, the first and second front legs
110a, 110b and the first and second rear legs 120a, 120b are urged
11 outwardly away from each other thereby causing folding brackets
12 116a, 116b to become fully extended. With the lower members 130a,
13 130b so positioned, the foldable walker 100 is configured to assist
14 a user in walking.
Preferably, the locking pin 170 is configured such that it is
16 not likely to be inadvertently disengaged from the locking aperture
17 156. For example, as shown in Figures 6a-6d, the button 172 is
18
shaped such that it is of a low profile and is therefore not prone
19 to being snagged or pulled during use. As well, it is preferable
that the button 172 is shielded by a portion of the hinge assembly
21
150. As best shown in Figure 6a, the button 172 is shielded by the
22 portion of the hinge assembly 150a that houses the axle 166.
23 However, the button as shown is merely one embodiment and numerous
24 other shapes are envisioned.
Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 represented in Figures 9 through 14 and may be substituted, at
2 least in part, for the use of the hinge assemblies 150A and 150B as
3 explained above and as represented in detail in the above-described
4 figures. More specifically, in order to compact the configuration
and reduce at least the longitudinal dimension of the frame of the
6 walker assembly 100, and possibly the transverse dimension thereof
7 as well, the front and rear wheel assemblies may be removed from
8 the front and rear leg assemblies. For purposes of clarity, the
9 structure represented in Figures 9 through 14 represents a single
lower leg portion. However, it is emphasized that in describing
11 this particular structure, each of the front and rear legs, 114A,
12 114B, 132A, 132B is the duplicate and/or structural equivalent of
13 one another such that the description of one lower leg portion is
14 meant to be descriptive of each of the corresponding leg
structures. Further, member 200 defines the outwardly extending
16 shaft to which each of the front and rear wheel structures 188 and
17 180 are secured.
18
Accordingly as clearly shown in Figures 10 through 13, the
19 transverse dimension of the shaft 200 is at least minimally less
than the interior transverse dimension of the lower portion 114A,
21 etc, of the front and rear leg assemblies. This relative
22 dimensioning allows for the shaft 200 to be inserted within and
23 removed from the interior of the lower portion 114A, etc, as
24 demonstrated by a comparison of the unassembled and assembled
structures respectively represented in Figures 10-11 and 12.
26
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 Further, the shaft 200 includes spring biased fingers 202 which are
2 retractable, at least partially, into the interior of the shaft 200
3 as they pass along the interior surface 204 of the lower portion of
4 the leg 114A, etc. However, upon the spring biased fingers 202
being aligned with coaxial apertures 206, the fingers 202 will
6 extend outwardly thereby removably locking or retaining the shaft
7 200 within the interior of the leg lower portion 114A, etc. Removal
8 of the shaft 200 from the interior of the leg lower portion 114A,
9 etc. is accomplished by inwardly depressing the fingers 202 such
that they are removed from the apertures 206 and are allowed to
11
slide along the interior surface 204. However, once the fingers 202
12 are aligned with and extend outwardly from the apertures 206,
13 apertures 208 and 210, respectively formed in the shaft 200 and the
14 leg lower portion 114A, etc, will be axially aligned. Such axial
alignment between the apertures 208 and 210 will facilitate the
16 connection of a retaining connector or bracket 220 in its intended,
17 retaining position as best shown in Figures 13 and 14.
18
More specifically, the retaining connector or bracket 220
19 comprises central connecting or retaining pin 222 spaced inwardly
from curved arms 224 and 226. The free ends of the each of the arms
21
224 and 226 are disposed in spaced relation to one another so as to
22 facilitate passage of lower leg portion 114A, etc. there between
23 and into the interior 228 of the retaining connector structure 220
24 and between the arms 224 and 226. Further, the retaining connector
or bracket 220 preferably includes the arms 224 and 226 being
27
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 formed from a flexible material and as such may expand outwardly to
2 further facilitate passage of the lower leg portion 114A, etc. into
3 the interior 208 of the retaining connector 220. In the connected
4 position shown in Figures 13 and 14, the retaining pin 222
therefore passes through axially aligned apertures 208 and 210.
6 Also, the retaining pin 222 is preferably of sufficient length to
7 pass outwardly from the outermost aperture 210' as shown in Figures
8 13 and 14.
9 Additional structural features include an axially adjustable
and removable handle assembly, comprising a first and second
11 handlebar 140a, 140b adjustably connected to the first end 112a,
12 112b of each front leg 110a, 110b, respectively. Preferably, the
13 first and second handlebars 140a, 140b are secured to the walker
14 assembly 100 with easily manipulated threaded knobs 143, as are
other parts of the walker 100. The first and second handlebars
16 140a, 140b are connected to the first and second front legs 110a,
17 110b such that they can be axially adjusted based upon the height
18 of the user. Also, each handlebar 140a, 140b includes a lever 184,
19 which is used to activate a brake 182 that is adjacent the rear
wheel assemblies 180. By urging the lever 184 upwardly toward the
21 respective handlebar 140a, 140b, a cable 186 is pulled which in
22 turn causes the brake 182 to engage the rear wheel assembly 180,
23 thereby preventing the foldable walker 100 from rolling. Further,
24 the levers 184 may be manipulated such that the brakes 182 are
activated although the user is no longer exerting force on the
28
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 lever 184.
2 With primary reference to Figures 15 through 24, the present
3 invention comprises yet another most preferred embodiment including
4 a mobile support assembly generally indicated as 300. Moreover, the
mobile support assembly 300 demonstrates a significant degree of
6 versatility by its selective use as either a walker or a
7 wheelchair, dependent upon the disposition of at least one
8 adjustable portion or adjustable frame segment 370 of the frame
9 generally indicated as 302, as will be described in greater detail
hereinafter. For purposes of clarity, Figure 15 represents the
11 orientation of the adjustable frame segment 370, as well as other
12 structural and operative components of the mobile support assembly
13 300, so as to facilitate its use as a wheelchair. In contrast,
14 Figures 16 and 17 represent the orientation of the frame 302,
specifically including the adjustable portion or adjustable frame
16 segment 370, as well as other structural and operative components
17 of the mobile support assembly 300 facilitates its use as a walker.
18 More specific details include the frame 302 comprising two
19 spaced apart side frame segments 304 and 306 each of which include
a substantially oblong or "eye" shaped configuration. This
21 configuration of each of the side frame segments is at least
22 partially defined by an upper side frame segment 308 and a lower
23 side frame segment 310 having an outwardly bowed or curvilinear
24 configuration. As will also be explained in greater detail
hereinafter, side frame segments 304 and 306 and more specifically
29
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 the upper and lower side frame segments 308 and 310 may include
2 connecting structures 312, 313, 315 and 319, which facilitate the
3 disposition or arrangement of the mobile support assembly 300,
4 specifically including portions the frame 302 into a compact,
reduced size stored orientation for storage, transport, etc, at
6 least partially similar to the one or more embodiments of Figures 1
7 through 14. The stored orientation will be described in greater
8 detail hereinafter with primary reference to the mobile support
9 assembly 300 as represented in Figures 20 through 24.
The mobile support assembly 300 further includes a handle
11 assembly generally indicated as 314 including two handles 316
12 disposed in spaced relation to one another such that an open
13 spacing 318 may be formed there between so as to facilitate
14 placement of an individual in a proper orientation to propel the
mobile support assembly 300 when used as either a wheelchair as
16 demonstrated in Figure 15 or a walker as demonstrated in Figures 16
17 and 17. As will be more specifically explained and described
18 hereinafter, the spacing 318 is rendered more accessible when the
19
frame 302, or at least one or more structural components thereof is
selectively disposed to facilitate use of the mobile support
21 assembly 300 as the walker.
22
Other features of the handle assembly 314 include each of
23 preferably two handles 316 having a handlebar 317 preferably
24 structured in the form of handgrips. In addition and with reference
to the embodiment of Figures 1 through 3, the handle assembly 314
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 may include levers 184 used to activate a one or more brake
2 structures 182 that are operative to exert a braking force on the
3 rear wheel assembly 320. Moreover, the brake structures 182 may be
4 disposed in operative relation to the rear wheels 330 of the
embodiment of Figures 15 through 17. While this hand activated or
6 operated brake assembly is not represented in the embodiments of
7 Figures 15 through 20, it may be readily adapted for connection to
8 or mounting on the mobile support assembly 300 so as to facilitate
9 hand actuation of the braking assembly 182, as described with
specific reference to the embodiment of Figures 1 through 3. As
11 such, manipulation of the levers 184 upwardly towards the
12 respective handlebars 317 serves to pull a mechanical connecting
13 cable 186 which in turn causes the brake 182 to engage the rear
14 wheel 330 of the rear wheel assembly 329, thereby restricting
movement of the mobile support assembly 300. When the hand
16 activated brake assembly or brakes 182 are not utilized on the
17 preferred embodiment of Figures 15 through 20, a foot activated
18 brake assembly may be utilized, wherein a foot activated lever 332
19 is associated with brake structures mounted on or connected to each
of the rear wheels 330.
21
As also clearly depicted in Figures 15 though 17 and 20, the
22 mobile support assembly 300 also includes a front wheel assembly
23 334 comprising front wheels 336 connected to the front legs, which
24 are at least partially defined by a lower end portion of the upper
side frame segments 308. For purposes of clarity the frame 302 may
31
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 also be described as including a trailing portion and a leading
2 portion, wherein the terms "trailing" and "leading" are described
3 with reference to the normal or conventional, forward direction of
4 travel of the mobile support assembly 300, whether used as a walker
or a wheelchair. More specifically, the leading portion of the
6 frame 302 is generally and at least partially defined by the
7 location of the front wheel assembly 334, including the front
8 wheels 336. In contrast the trailing portion of the frame 302 is
9 generally and at least partially defined by the location of the
handle assembly 314, the rear wheel assembly 329 and/or the rear
11 legs 333.
12
In order to facilitate the maneuverability of the mobile
13 support assembly 300, each of the front wheels 336 are rotatably
14 connected to the frame 302 and more specifically interconnected to
the outer or lower ends of the upper side frame segments 308 by
16 means of a castor like structure shown in detail in Figures 18.
17 More specifically, a castor base or housing 340 connected to the
18 axis of rotation of each of the wheels 336 allows the wheels to
19 swivel appropriately to assume a desired angular orientation for
forward, rearward or other directional traveling of the mobile
21
support assembly 300 as desired. As set forth above, the propelling
22 force applied to the handle assembly 314 may either be a pushing
23 force, a pulling force or a combination of both in order to
24 accomplish desired and selected directional traveling.
With further reference to Figure 18, at least one preferred
32
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 embodiment and/or structural modification of the mobile support
2 assembly 300 comprises a foot pedal or like foot support assembly,
3 generally indicated as 342. The foot support assembly 342 includes
4 a pedal portion 344 and a support arm 346. The support arm 346 is
rotatably or pivotally connected to the lower end of the upper side
6 frame as at 308 by means of a rotatable connecting assembly or
7 pivotal hinge generally indicated as 348. As such, the leg or foot
8 support assembly 342 may be pivoted into or out of either the
9 operative position represented in Figure 18 or the folded,
collapsed position, at least partially defining a stored
11 orientation of the mobile support assembly as represented in Figure
12 15. As set forth above, the stored orientation of the mobile
13 support assembly 300 will be described in greater detail
14 hereinafter.
As set forth above, the versatility of the mobile support
16 assembly 300 is facilitated by its selective use as either a
17 walker, as represented in Figures 16 and 17, or as a wheelchair, as
18 represented in Figure 15. Accordingly, and with primary reference
19 to Figure 15, the mobile support assembly 300 includes a chair
assembly generally indicated as 350 comprising a seat 352 and a
21
back support 354. The seat 352 is supported by at least a portion
22 of the frame 302 and more specifically by an upper or inner end or
23 portion 333' of the rear leg structure 333 as well as other
24 cooperatively disposed portions of the frame 302, such as one or
more cross braces or members 335. The seat 352 is connected to the
33
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 frame 302 in the manner described so as to be securely supported on
2 the frame 302 until or unless the chair assembly 350 is
3 disassembled or separated from the frame 302.
4 In
contrast, the back support 354 is movably or pivotally
attached preferably about a lower junction or connection area 360
6 located on each of the lower corners of the back support 354
7 generally adjacent the junction of the seat 352 and the back
8 support 354. Moreover, back support 354 may be positioned in the
9 orientation demonstrated in Figures 16 and 17 when the adjustable
portion or adjustable frame segment 370 is disposed in a first
11
orientation as also demonstrated in Figures 16 and 17. As such, the
12 first orientation of the adjustable frame segment 370 facilitates
13 or enables the use of the mobile support assembly 300 as a walker
14 as demonstrated. In contrast, the adjustable frame segment 370 may
be disposed in a second orientation represented in Figure 15
16 wherein the adjustable frame segment 370 is disposed in substantial
17 alignment with the handle assembly 314 and within the spacing 318
18 between the individual spaced apart handles 316.
19 The
mobile support assembly of the present invention includes
an additional structure which facilitates the secure but removable
21 disposition of the adjustment frame segment 370 in each of the
22 first and second orientations. More specifically and with primary
23 reference to Figures 16, 21 and 24, each of the armrest structures
24 380 includes an outer end generally indicated as 390 having an
indented area 392 which serves to form an outwardly and/or
34
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 laterally projecting lip or like structure, as at 394. As best
2 shown in Figure 16, each of the inwardly projecting ends 390 of the
3 oppositely disposed, spaced apart armrests 380 are disposed in
4 interruptive relation to the opposite sides of the adjustable frame
segment 370. Accordingly, when the frame segment 370 is in the
6 aforementioned first orientation, the sides will abut against and
7 be retained by the projecting lips 394 of the inwardly extending or
8 projecting ends 390 of each of the armrests 380. With further
9 reference to Figure 16, the adjustable frame segment 370 is
maintained in the second orientation, as demonstrated in Figure 20,
11 by the provision of outwardly extending hook-like brackets or like
12 structures 396. Each of the brackets 396 is attached to one of the
13 two spaced apart side members of the adjustable frame segment 370.
14 Further, each of the brackets 396 is disposed to engage the lower
side frame segment 310 about an upper end thereof as at 310'.
16 Accordingly, when the adjustable frame segment 370 is in the second
17 orientation the outwardly extending brackets 396 each engage a
18 correspondingly positioned one of the upper ends 310' of the lower
19 side frame segments 310 so as to retain the adjustable frame
segment 370 in substantially aligned relation with and between the
21 handles 316.
22 It is also emphasized that the configuration, dimension and
23 placement of the armrest 380 determines the position and/or angular
24 inclination of the adjustable frame segment 370 when in the
aforementioned first orientation, such as when the mobile support
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 assembly 300 is being used as a walker. It is further emphasized
2 that hook like brackets 396 may assume a variety of different
3 structural configurations such as a U-shaped structure having a
4 certain inherent flexibility or bias, so as to effectively clip
onto or otherwise be removably connected to the upper ends 310' of
6 the lower side frame segments 310, as described above.
7 Therefore, the first orientation of the adjustable frame
8 segment 370 is defined by its inward, substantially angular
9 orientation towards the leading portion of the frame 302 and away
from the trailing portion thereof and handle assembly 314. The
11 first orientation of the adjustable frame segment 370 is further
12 defined by its substantially overlying, spaced relation above the
13 seat 352 and the back support 354, when the back support 354 is
14 disposed in confronting engagement with the seat 352, as clearly
represented in Figures 16 and 17. Accordingly, when the mobile
16 support assembly 300 is intended for use as a walker, the
17 adjustable frame segment 370, being in its first orientation,
18 allows access through the spacing 318 to the exterior surface of
19 the back support 354. As such, the back support 354 may be used as
a temporary seat or like support area, on which an individual may
21 rest while assuming a seated position. Concurrently, a cushion or
22 pad 372 may be mounted on the upper end of the adjustable portion
23 or frame segment 370 to serve as a backrest for an individual while
24 that individual is supported in a seated orientation on the back
support 354.
36
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 With
primary reference to Figure 15, when the adjustable frame
2 segment 370 is in the second orientation it is disposed upright
3 substantially within the spacing 318 in aligned relation with the
4 handle assembly 314 and the spaced apart handles 316. Similarly,
the back support 354 is disposed in an upright orientation as
6 represented and may be at least partially supported on or by the
7 adjustable frame segment 370 when it is in the second orientation.
8 As such, the chair assembly 350 is readily accessible thereby
9 enabling and facilitating the use of the mobile support assembly as
a wheelchair, as described.
11
Other structural and operative features which are at least
12 partially similar to the embodiments of Figures 1 through 14
13 include the vertical adjustment or removal of the handle assembly
14 314 by facilitating the vertical adjustment of each of the handles
316. As such, the elongated portions of the handles 316 may include
16 a plurality of apertures as at 319, each of which may receive a
17 spring biased lock member 321 disposed on the interior of the
18 elongated portion 316' of the handle 316, or within the upper end
19 310' of the lower side frame segment 310 so as to facilitate the
vertical adjustment of the grips or handlebar portions 317. A
21 structural modification of the handle assembly 314 and an
22 associated portion of the frame are represented in Figure 24. As
23 disclosed each of the handles 316 may be connected in an immediate
24 adjacent relation to the upper end 310' of the lower side frame
segment 310, rather than being connected in axial alignment
37
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 therewith, as represented in Figures 16, 19 and 20. In either
2 structural variation, the handles 316 may be vertically or
3 longitudinally adjusted along their respective lengths so as to
4 adapt to different individuals, which are positioned to propel the
mobile support assembly 300 in any preferred direction. Figures 16
6 and 17 further demonstrate the adjustable features of the handle
7 assembly 314 wherein each of the handles 316 is located at a
8 different height. Disengagement of the biased lock member 321 from
9 any of the apertures 319 allows the complete removal of the handles
316 from the frame.
11 As set forth above, the present invention demonstrates
12 significant versatility by virtue of its multi-use construction as
13 well as the structuring of the various components thereof so as to
14 facilitate the mobile support assembly 300 being easily and quickly
disposed into the stored orientation. As such, various components,
16 to be described in greater detail hereinafter, may be selectively
17 disposed from their normal, operative orientation, whether the
18 mobile support assembly 300 is used as a walker or a wheelchair, or
19 into a compact position so as to at least partially define the
stored orientation.
21 By way of example, the rear legs 333 and the rear wheels 330
22 associated therewith are adjustably interconnected to the remainder
23 of the frame 302 and more specifically to the frame segments 333'
24 used to at least partially support the seat 352. This adjustable
and movable interconnection is accomplished through the provision
38
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 of hinge like connector structures 319 which allow the rear legs
2 333 to be folded inwardly, substantially under the seat 352 or a
3 portion of the frame 302 associated with the seat 352.
4
Selective positioning of various portions or components of the
frame 302 in the aforementioned stored orientation is further
6 demonstrated in Figures 22 through 24. As shown therein, the stored
7 orientation may also be partially defined by the back support 354,
8 the
adjustable frame segment 70, the handles 316, arm rests 380 and
9 upper ends 308' and 310' of the upper and lower side frame segment
308 and 310 respectively, being disposed in predetermined relation
11 to one another, as described in greater detail hereinafter. More
12 specifically and with reference to Figure 24, fixedly
13 interconnected portions of frame 302 include the arm rest 380
14 connected to and supported by the upper end 308' of the upper side
frame segment as well as the upper end 310' of the lower side frame
16 segment and the correspondingly positioned handle 316. This
17 collection of components represents a "sub-unit" of the frame 302
18 which may be collectively positioned between an operative
19 orientation as demonstrated In Figure 20 and a collapsed position
as demonstrated in Figure 22, wherein portions of the frame 302
21 assume the aforementioned stored orientation.
22 In
order to accomplish the compact position of the sub-unit
23 demonstrated in Figure 24, a plurality of connectors 313 and 315
24 are disposed and structured to movably or adjustably connect the
sub-unit of Figure 24 to the remainder of the frame 302. More
39
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1
specifically, as represented in Figure 23, the connector 312 is
2 separable and comprises removably attached portions 313' and 313".
3 A secure but removable connection or attachment of the connector
4 segments 313' and 313" may be accomplished utilizing a retaining
connector or bracket 220 as disclosed and described in detail with
6 reference to the embodiment of Figures 9 and 14. As such, a central
7 member or shaft 222 associated with the separate retaining
8 connectors 220 passes through apertures 312 formed in the connector
9 segment 313' and extends into the interior of segment 313". The
curved arms 224 and 226 of separate ones of the retaining
11 connectors 220 will thereafter surround the segments 313' and 313"
12 when in the connected or assembled position as demonstrated in
13 Figure 23. The removal of the retaining connector 220 will allow
14 the segments 313' and 313" to be separated, wherein segment 313"
is fixedly or integrally connected to the lower extremity of the
16 upper end 308' of the upper side frame segment as disclosed in
17 Figure 22. In addition, a hinge type connector 315 is structured
18 such that the upper end 310' of the lower side frame segment 310 is
19 pivotal inwardly in overlying relation to the seat 352 as well as
the back support 354 and adjustable frame segment 370 when the back
21 support 354 and the frame segment 370 are disposed in overlying
22 and/or confronting relation to the seat 352 as clearly disclosed in
23 Figure 22.
24 It
is recognized that Figure 22 discloses only one of the sub-
units represented in Figure 24 as being disposed in the compact
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 position. However, Figure 22 is intended to be representative of
2 the structural and operative features of both of the oppositely
3 disposed sub-units represented in Figure 24, located on opposite
4 sides of the mobile support assembly 300. As such, both of the
Figure 24 sub-units are pivotal or foldable inwardly into a compact
6 position, so as to at least partially define the aforementioned
7 stored orientation.
8 It
is also recognized that the adjustable frame segment 370 is
9 normally or typically retained in its first orientation, as
represented in Figure 16, by the inwardly projecting lip 394 of the
11 end 390 of each of the arm rests 380. However, in order for the
12 adjustable frame segment 370 to assume the position demonstrated in
13 Figure 22 the arm rest 380 may be forced at least a minimal
14 distance outwardly such that side portions 370' of the adjustable
frame segment 370 may pass beyond the inwardly projecting ends 390
16 of each of the arm rests 380 to assume the folded or collapsed
17 position demonstrated in Figure 22.
18 The
selective and efficient disposition of certain components
19 or portions of the frame 302 in a collapsed position so as to
define the stored orientation of significantly reduced dimension
21
thereby greatly facilitates the storage or transport of the mobile
22 support assembly 300. In addition, the overall configuration and
23 dimension of the mobile support assembly 300 is sufficiently
24 reduced so as to allow its placement in a small storage or travel
carton or container of a size which renders the storage or
41
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 transport of the mobile support assembly 300, when in the stored
2 orientation, effective and efficient.
3 Yet another most preferred embodiment of the present invention
4 comprises a mobile support assembly generally indicated as 400,
being primarily in the form of a walker assembly. The mobile
6 support assembly 400 comprises a frame generally indicated as 402
7 which is structured to include a seat 142 as well as a depending
8 compartment 148 located beneath the seat 142 as clearly disclosed
9 in the additional preferred embodiments of Figures 1-3. For
purposes of clearly and accurately describing the various
11 components of the frame 402, the seat 142 and the compartment 148
12 are not shown in Figures 25 through 27. However, it is emphasized
13 that the overall frame structure, as will be apparent hereinafter,
14 is clearly adapted for receipt of the seat 142, compartment 148 and
backrest portion 146. More specifically, the seat 142 is designed
16 to be connected to and partially supported on the cross bars 404 by
17 appropriate connecting strips as demonstrated in Figures 1-3 or by
18 other appropriate connecting structure. As such, the compartment
19 148 will be located beneath the seat 142 and between the crossbars
404 in somewhat of a dependent relation to the seat 142.
21 Further, the frame 402 includes the back support member 406 on
22 which the back supporting pad 146 is mounted. The frame also
23 includes a front wheel assembly, generally indicated as 408 and a
24 rear wheel assembly, generally indicated as 410. As with the
embodiments of Figures 1-3, the front leg assembly 408 includes two
42
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 spaced apart legs 409 which vary in dimension and/or configuration
2 relative to the embodiment of Figures 1-3.
3 More
specifically, each of the legs 409 includes an elongated
4 upper or primary portion 409' and a fixedly or integrally connected
lower portion 412. As is clearly represented in Figures 25 through
6 27, the upper portion 409' is angularly oriented relative to the
7
lower portions 412. Further, the lower portion 412 is disposed in a
8 substantially upright or at least partially vertical orientation
9 when the frame 402 is disposed in an upright, operative orientation
as represented in the accompanying figures. In contrast, the two
11 spaced apart legs 411 at least partially define the rear leg
12 assembly 410. The rear legs 411 differ in dimension and
13 configuration from the front legs 409 in that they have
14 substantially linear, elongated configuration with a greater
longitudinal dimension then the overall length of the front legs
16 409. Accordingly, each of the rear legs 411 includes a lower
17 portion 413 disposed in coaxial alignment with the primary or upper
18 portion thereof.
19 As
set forth above, frame 402, as represented in Figures 25
through 27, is absent the Inclusion of front and rear wheel
21 assemblies 420 and 420' respectively. With specific reference to
22 Figure 28 and as similarly represented in the embodiments of
23 Figures 1-3, each of the legs 409 and 411 include front wheel
24 assemblies 420 and rear wheel assemblies respectively connected to
corresponding lower portions 412 and 413. Each of the wheel
43
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 assemblies 420' has an elongated connecting shaft 200' and
2 appropriately sized wheel structure 422. Moreover, each of the
3 front legs 409 of the front leg assembly 408 includes a wheel
4 assembly 420 secured to the lower portions 412 thereof. Similarly,
each of the rear legs 411 includes individual wheel assemblies 420'
6 connected to the lower portion 413 thereof. Accordingly, the
7 support assembly 400 can be said to have a front wheel assembly
8 defined by two of the wheel assemblies 420 and a rear wheel
9 assembly defined by an additional two wheel assemblies 420'
connected to the lower portions 412 and 413 of the respective front
11 and rear legs 409 and 411.
12
One feature of the walker of the mobile support assembly 400
13 is the ability to efficiently adjust the height of the frame 402
14 relative to any supporting surface on which the frame 402 is
positioned as demonstrated in Figures 25-27. Accordingly, the
16 varying of the height of the frame 402 relative to any supporting
17 surface facilitates its use by individuals of varying heights and
18 sizes, whether the user/individual is standing relative to the
19 support assembly 400 or sitting on the seat 142. Such variable
height adjustment of the frame 402 is accomplished by virtue of the
21 fact that the front wheel assemblies 420 and the rear wheel
22 assemblies 420' and each of the wheel structures 422 associated
23 therewith are adjustably and removably connected to the respective
24
lower portions 412 and 413 of the front and rear legs 409 and 411.
For purposes of clarity the structures represented in Figures
44
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 30 through 32 are intended to depict a single one of the lower leg
2 portions 412 and 413. However, it is emphasized that in describing
3 this particular structure, each of the front and rear legs 409 and
4 411 is the duplicate or structural equivalent of the other, at
least in terms of establishing an adjustable interconnection with
6 corresponding ones of the wheel structures 422 and associated shaft
7 200'. Accordingly, the description of one lower leg portion 412 or
8 413 is meant to be descriptive of each of the corresponding leg
9 structures.
Accordingly, the transverse dimension of each of the shafts
11 200' is at least minimally less than the interior transverse
12 dimension of the lower portions 412 and 413 of the front and rear
13 legs 409 and 411. This relative dimensioning allows the shafts 200'
14 to be inserted within and removed from the interior of the lower
portions 412 and 413 as demonstrated by a comparison of the
16 unassembled and assembled structures respectively represented in
17 Figures 30 through 32. Further, the shaft 200' includes spring
18 biased fingers 202' which are retractable, at least partially, into
19 the interior of shaft 200' as they pass along the interior surface
204' of the lower portions 412 and 413 of the front and rear legs.
21 However, upon the spring biased fingers 202' being aligned with
22 coaxial apertures 206', the fingers 202' will extend outwardly
23 thereby removably locking or retaining the shaft 200' within the
24 interior of the lower portions 412 and 413. Removal of the shaft
200' from the interior of the lower portions 412 and 413 is
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 accomplished by inwardly depressing the fingers 202' such that they
2 are removed from the apertures 206' and are allowed to slide along
3 the interior surface 204'. Once the fingers 202' are aligned with
4 and extend outwardly from the apertures 206', apertures 208' and
210' respectively formed in the shaft 200' and the lower portions
6 412 and 413, will be axially aligned. Such axial alignment between
7 the apertures 208' and 210' will facilitate the connection of a
8 retaining connector or bracket 220' as represented in Figure 29, in
9 its intended, retaining position.
By virtue of this adjustable and variable connection as
11
demonstrated in Figures 30 through 32, the height of the frame 402,
12 such as when it is in its operative position as demonstrated in
13 Figures 25 through 27, can be easily varied or adjusted to
14 accommodate users of various sizes and heights merely by placing
the fingers 202' in different ones or pairs of the apertures 206'.
16 To facilitate an adjustment of the frame 402 at different heights,
17 the lower portions 412 and 413, or other portions of the legs 409
18 and 411 include a plurality of such pairs of apertures 206'.
19 Accordingly, the corresponding wheel assemblies 420 and 420' can
extend outwardly from and along the length of each of corresponding
21 ones of the legs 409 of the front leg assembly 408 and
22 corresponding ones of the legs 411 of the rear leg assembly 410.
23 Such variable outward extension is schematically represented by
24 directional arrows 430 in Figure 28.
With primary reference to Figure 29, a retaining connector or
46
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 bracket 220' is disposed and structured to reliably but removably
2 retain the intended connection between the wheel assemblies 420 and
3 420' and the corresponding legs 409 and 411 of the front and rear
4 leg assemblies 408 and 410. Accordingly, the retaining connector
220' comprises a central connecting pin 222' spaced on the interior
6 of curved arms 224' and 226'. This embodiment is structurally
7 distinguishable but functionally similar from the retaining
8 connector or bracket 220 represented in Figure 9. As such, either
9 embodiment of the connecting bracket can be used with one or more
of the different preferred embodiments of the present invention, as
11 set forth herein.
12 More specifically, the curved arms 224' and 226' have a
13 sufficient longitudinal dimension so as to surround a portion of
14 the front or rear legs, as at 412, 413 thereby further facilitating
the placement of the connecting pins 222' in their intended
16 retaining position as they extend through aligned apertures 210',
17 formed in the leg portions 412, 413, and 208', formed in the shaft
18 200', when the shaft 200' and leg portions 412, 413 are assembled
19 as represented in Figures 29 and 32. In addition, the free ends of
each of the curved arms 224 and 226' include a connector or latch
21 configuration 415, which enables the free ends to be removably
22 connected to one another. The provision of the latch configuration
23 415 at the free ends further serves to maintain the retaining
24 connector or bracket 220' in its intended operative position.
Moreover, when in its operative position of Figure 29, the
47
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 retaining pin 222' serves to prevent inadvertent removal or
2 relative positioning of the shaft 200 from its intended, retained
3 placement within the corresponding leg portion 412, 413, as set
4 forth above.
Yet another feature of the present invention is demonstrated
6 in Figures 33 and 34. More specifically, the mobile support
7 assembly 400 and the frame 402 include a bracket assembly generally
8 indicated as 450. The bracket assembly 450 is movably
9 interconnected between the front leg assembly 408 and the rear leg
assembly 410. In a most preferred embodiment and as represented in
11 Figures 25-27, two such bracket assemblies 450 are provided.
12 However, it is within the spirit of scope of the present invention
13 that the mobile support assembly 400, being primarily in the form
14 of a collapsible walker assembly, may include only a single one of
the bracket assemblies 450.
16
When the frame 402 is in its operative position, the bracket
17 assembly 450 assumes a substantially elongated, linear
18 configuration including bracket segments 454 and 456 disposed in
19 substantially linearly aligned relation to one another. Further,
each of the bracket segments 454 and 456 have their opposite or
21
outer, distal ends pivotally or otherwise movably connected to the
22 corresponding legs 409 and 411 of the front and rear leg assemblies
23 408 and 410 respectively. The opposite or correspondingly
24 positioned inner, proximal ends of each of the bracket segments 454
and 456 are pivotally or otherwise movably connected to one another
48
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 by a pivot or linking pin 459.
2
Moreover, when the frame 402 is disposed from the operative
3 position, represented in Figures 25-27 and 33, into a stored
4 orientation, the bracket segments 454 and 456 will assume a folded
position. The folded position of the bracket assembly 450 is more
6 specifically described by their upward movement, as schematically
7 indicated by the directional arrow 460. Therefore, when in the
8 fully collapsed, stored orientation, the front and rear leg
9 assemblies 408 and 410 are disposed in a somewhat aligned or at
least coextending position as clearly demonstrated in embodiments
11 of Figures 7 and 8. In such a stored orientation, the bracket
12 segments 454 and 456 will also be somewhat aligned and disposed in
13 coextending relation to one another as represented in Figure 34. In
14 order to maintain the bracket assembly 450 and more specifically
the bracket segments 454 and 456 in the folded position, and
16 thereby maintain the frame 402 in its stored orientation, a lock
17 assembly generally indicated as 452 is provided.
18 The
lock assembly 452 comprises a female member or portion 462
19
including a flange having an aperture 462' connected to and movable
with one of the bracket segments, such as at 454. The lock assembly
21 452 further includes a male portion or member 464 including a
22 finger or pin 464' connected to and movable with the other of the
23 two bracket segments, as at 456. When the bracket assembly 450 is
24 in the linearly aligned operative position represented in Figure 33
the female portion 462 and the male portion 464 are disposed in
49
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1
spaced relation to one another. However, when the bracket assembly
2 450 is reconfigured to allow the frame 402 to assume its stored
3 orientation, the bracket segments 454 and 456 will be disposed in
4 at least a partially coextending position as indicated in Figure
34. In such position, the female portion 462 will become
6 substantially aligned with the male portion 464 to the extent that
7 they may be brought into movable, retaining engagement with one
8 another.
9 More
specifically, the female portion 462 comprises the
apertured flange and the male portion 464 comprises a spring
11
biased, retractable finger 464'. When the aperture 462' is disposed
12 in aligned relation with the connecting or retaining finger 464',
13 manipulation of the male portion 464 in a reciprocal or retractable
14 manner, as schematically indicated by directional arrow 465, will
serve to dispose the retaining finger 464' through the aperture
16 462'. The female and male portions 462 and 464 will thereby be
17 removably connected together facilitating maintenance of the
18 bracket segments 454 and 456 in the folded position. When so
19 retained, the front and rear leg portions 408 and 410 will be
"locked" in the stored orientation. In order to reorient the frame
21 402
and more specifically the front and rear leg portions 408 and
22 410 in its operative position as demonstrated in Figure 33, a
23 manual manipulation of the spring biased, male portion 464 can be
24 accomplished at least to the extent of removing the retaining
finger 464' from the aperture 462' thereby releasing the bracket
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 segments 454 and 456 from one another and allowing them to assume
2 an operative, linear configuration.
3 Many
variations and modifications may be made to the above-
4 described embodiments of the foldable walkers 100 and 400 and the
multi-use mobile support assembly 300, without departing from the
6 spirit, principles and intended scope of theses embodiments. Since
7 many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be made to
8 the
described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intended
9 that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the
accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a
11 limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be
12 determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
13 With
primary reference to Figures 35 through 39, yet another
14 preferred embodiment of the mobile support assembly of the present
invention is generally indicated as 500. As such, the mobile
16 support assembly 500 includes a frame assembly generally indicated
17 as 502 including two laterally spaced and moveably interconnected
18 side
assemblies 504 and 506. Each of the side assemblies may have
19 elongated frame segment 508 extending at least a majority of the
length of the respective side assemblies 504 and 506. A lower or
21 supporting end of each of the frame segments 508 includes a
22 bifurcated structure or configuration as at 510 to which support
23 wheels are connected.
24 More
specifically, the support wheels include a front wheel
assembly generally indicated as 512 and a rear wheel assembly
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CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 generally indicated as 514. Each of the front and rear wheel
2 assemblies 512 and 514 are removably connected to corresponding
3 lower bifurcated portions 510' and 510" of the frame segment 508,
4 of each side assembly 504 and 506. Removable connection, as clearly
represented in Figure 36, is accomplished by a connecting bracket
6 or like member 220 as described in greater detail with reference to
7 Figures 13 and 14 herein. Preferred features of the front wheel
8 assembly 512 is the structuring thereof in the form of castors,
9 wherein a connecting stem 513 serves to movably, rotatably and/or
pivotally connect each of the castor wheels 514' to a mounting hub
11 516. The use of castors on the front, forward or leading portion of
12 the mobile support assembly 500 facilitates its steering and
13 maneuverability, whether an individual is utilizing the mobile
14 support assembly 500 in a standing orientation, as a walker, or in
a seated orientation, as a mobile chair.
16
In order to properly steer and/or maneuver the mobile support
17 assembly 500 especially, but not exclusively, when an individual is
18 in a standing orientation, the frame assembly 502 includes a pair
19 of handle structures 520. Each of the handle structures 520 is
adjustably and possibly removably connected to the correspondingly
21 disposed frame segments 508. Accordingly, a user of the mobile
22 support assembly 500 can raise or lower each of the handles 520
23 independently of one another. This facilitates the outward
24 extension of each handle assembly 520 a sufficient distance from a
remainder of the frame assembly 502 to accommodate the height,
52
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 size, etc. of an individual, especially when in a walking
2 orientation. Further, each of the handle structures 520 may include
3 grips 520' and braking controls 520" which may be manipulated by
4 the corresponding hand of an individual to facilitate a braking of
the mobile support assembly 500, when in motion. Further, the
6 height or outward distance of the handle structures 520 from the
7 remainder of the frame assembly 502 may be selectively varied by
8 the inclusion of an elongated stem or like member 522 including a
9 plurality of openings or notches 522'.
The notches or openings
522' are disposed and structured to interact with a spring like
11 connector and/or adjustment knob of handle 524, mounted on each
12 frame segment 508 associated with each of the side assemblies 504
13 and 506.
14
The laterally adjustable and/or selectively positionable side
assemblies 504 and 506 are movably interconnected to one another by
16 an adjustment linkage generally indicated as 540. More
17 specifically, the adjustment linkage 540 includes two elongated
18 link members 542 and 544 each including a first opposite end 546
19 and a second opposite end 548. As represented throughout the
Figures, each of the first and second opposite ends 546 and 548
21
associated with each of the elongated link members 542 and 544 are
22 directly or indirectly movably connected to a different one of the
23 side assemblies 504 and 506. More specifically, the first opposite
24 end 546 of each of the links 542 and 544 is directly connected to a
corresponding one of the side assemblies 504 and 506 by a
53
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 substantially pivotal connection 549. In contrast, the second
2 opposite end 548 of each of the link members 542 and 544 is movably
3 or pivotally interconnected to corresponding ones of the side
4 assemblies 504 and 506 by a different, correspondingly positioned
attachment link 550. Further, the extremities of each of the second
6 opposite ends 548 are connected in direct supporting relation to
7 side mounts or like portions 551 of a seat 554 associated with
8 chair assembly generally indicated as 552 of the frame 502. As also
9 represented, when in the operative orientation, the second ends 548
of each of the link members 542 and 544 are brought into
11 confronting relation, while possibly not actually engaging, the
12 corresponding side assemblies 504 and 506, as they force the seat
13 ends 551 outwardly, away from one another.
14
With primary reference to Figure 35, the mobile support
assembly 500 and the frame assembly 502 are shown in an operative
16 position. In contrast Figures 38 and 39 represent the mobile
17 support assembly 500 and the frame assembly 502 in an at least
18 partially collapsed orientation. Accordingly, the collapsed
19 orientation is at least partially defined by the elongated link
members 542 and 544 being disposed in a substantially adjacent
21 longitudinal alignment or orientation relative to one another. The
22 collapsed orientation of the frame assembly 502 may also be
23 described as the first opposite ends 546 of each of the side
24 assemblies 504 and 506 being disposed in a spacing or distance from
one another than when the frame assembly 502 is in the operative
54
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 orientation. Similarly, in the collapsed orientation of the frame
2 assembly 502, the second opposite ends 548 of each of the side
3 assemblies 504 and 506 are disposed in a closer spacing or distance
4 from one another than when the frame assembly 502 is in the
operative orientation. In contrast, the operative orientation of
6 Figures 35 and 37 show the elongated link members 542 and 544 in a
7 laterally extended or expanded orientation. As such, when in the
8 operative orientation the two side assemblies 504 and 506 are
9 disposed in a maximum lateral spaced apart relation to one another.
In contrast, in the collapsed or at least partially collapsed
11 orientation the side assemblies 504 and 506 are disposed in a
12 substantially adjacent but significantly closer spaced relation to
13 one another than are the side assemblies 504 and 506 when in the
14 maximum lateral spaced relation of the operative orientation of
Figures 1 and 3.
16
As used herein, the term(s) "maximum lateral spaced" relation
17 is meant to describe the farthest distance that the link members
18 542 and 544 can be laterally extended in separating the side
19 assemblies 504 and 506 from one another, when in the frame assembly
502 is in operative orientation. The "maximum lateral spaced"
21 relation of the operative orientation of the frame assembly 502 may
22 also be described as the first opposite ends 546 of each of the
23
side assemblies 504 and 506 being disposed at a greater distance or
24 "maximum" distance from one another than when the frame assembly
502 is in the collapsed orientation. Similarly, maximum lateral
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 spaced" relation of the operative orientation of the frame assembly
2 502 may also be described as the second opposite ends 548 of each
3 of the side assemblies 504 and 506 also being disposed at a greater
4 distance or "maximum" distance from one another than when the frame
assembly 502 is in the collapsed orientation. As such, the first
6 opposite ends 546 and the second opposite ends 548 of the link
7 members 542 and 544 are disposed a maximum lateral spacing from one
8 another, as are the side assemblies 504 and 506 to which the link
9 members 542 and 544 are adjustably attached.
With reference to Figure 36 and as described above, each of
11 the front and rear wheel assemblies 512 and 514 are removably
12 connected to the frame 502. As such, the aforementioned collapsed
13 orientation may also be at least partially defined by the side
14 assemblies 504 and 506 being disposed in a closer, substantially or
at least partially adjacent, laterally spaced relation to one
16 another and the wheel assemblies 512 and 514 and possibly as well
17
as the handle assembly 520 being disconnected from the remainder of
18 the frame 502.
19
with regard to the chair assembly 552, the seat 554 is
interconnected between the side assemblies 504 and 506 and
21 supported in an outwardly extended orientation by the second
22 opposite ends 548 of each of the elongated link members 542 and
23 544. Similarly, the backrest, generally indicated as 555, has its
24 opposite ends adjustably or fixedly connected to different ones of
the side assemblies 504 and 506. Therefore, when the side
56
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 assemblies 504 and 506 are disposed in their maximum lateral spaced
2 apart relation due to the lateral expansion or extension of the
3 interconnected elongated links 542 and 544, sufficient tension will
4 be placed on the backrest 555 to support the back or other
appropriate portion of the individual when disposed in a seated
6 orientation.
7
Also, a storage compartment generally indicated as 560 is
8 disposed on a frontal portion of the frame 502 adjacent to the
9 adjustable linkage 540 comprising the two elongated link members
542 and 544. As also indicated, the storage compartment 560 is also
11 disposed substantially forward in supported relation on the
12 bifurcated portions 510' of each of the side assemblies 504 and
13 506. Further, the support compartment 560 may have an open top or
14 access 562. In order to facilitate selective disposition of the
mobile support assembly 500 in the collapsed position, the seat 554
16 the backrest 555 and the storage compartment 560 may each be formed
17 of a flexible material. As such, an inward, close, substantially
18
adjacent spacing between the side portion 504 and 506, will result
19 in an effective collapse or at least partial folding of the seat
554 backrest 552 and storage compartment 560 as at least partially
21 represented in Figures 38 and 39.
22
Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can
23 be made to the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it
24 is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown
in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not
57
CA 02845521 2014-03-11
1 in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be
2 determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.
3 Now that the invention has been described,
58
