U.S. patent application number 09/476277 was filed with the patent office on 2001-10-18 for foldable commode.
Invention is credited to BATTISTON, DAVID, BATTISTON, JOSEPH.
Application Number | 20010029624 09/476277 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22110237 |
Filed Date | 2001-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010029624 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BATTISTON, JOSEPH ; et
al. |
October 18, 2001 |
FOLDABLE COMMODE
Abstract
In one preferred embodiment, a foldable commode which includes:
a platform having a pair of slotted members depending from the
bottom, each slotted member defining a race extending from front to
rear; a first U-shaped leg member having a pair of legs connected
by a bight portion slidably disposed in the races; a second
U-shaped leg member having a pair of legs connected by a bight
portion, the top portions being pivotally mounted on opposite sides
of the rear end of the platform, wherein the middle portion of each
of the legs of the second U-shaped leg member is pivotally attached
to the middle portion of a respective one of the legs of the first
U-shaped leg member; a receptacle support member disposed
intermediate the front and rear ends of the platform; and a
receptacle which depends from the receptacle support member.
Inventors: |
BATTISTON, JOSEPH; (CHESTER,
VA) ; BATTISTON, DAVID; (MIDLOTHIAN, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DAVID A JACKSON
KLAUBER & JACKSON
CONTINENTAL PLAZA
411 HACKENSACK AVENUE
HACKENSACK
NJ
07601
|
Family ID: |
22110237 |
Appl. No.: |
09/476277 |
Filed: |
January 3, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
09476277 |
Jan 3, 2000 |
|
|
|
09072869 |
May 5, 1998 |
|
|
|
6009571 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
4/484 ; 4/479;
4/483 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 11/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
4/484 ; 4/479;
4/483 |
International
Class: |
A47K 011/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A foldable commode comprising a foldable frame, said foldable
frame including: a first leg means having a top portion and a
bottom portion; a second leg means having a top portion and a
bottom portion, wherein said first and second leg means are
pivotally attached to one another intermediate respective said top
and bottom portions; and a platform having a front end, a rear end,
a top, and a bottom, said platform including an attachment member
disposed on the bottom surface which defines a race for receiving
said top portion of said first leg means, thereby slidably
attaching said first leg means to said platform; wherein the rear
end of said platform is pivotally attached to the upper portion of
said second leg means; wherein said foldable frame is capable of
being moved between a fully closed position and a fully open
position; wherein, in the fully closed position, said first and
second leg means are substantially disposed adjacent said platform;
and wherein, in the fully open position, said first and second leg
means generally criss-cross each other and generally extend away
from said platform; whereby the top portions of each of said leg
means is prevented from separating from said platform.
2. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said platform
further comprises a receptacle support means disposed intermediate
the front and rear ends.
3. The foldable commode according to claim 2 further comprising a
receptacle which depends from said receptacle support means.
4. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said foldable
frame further comprises a seat assembly pivotally attached to said
platform.
5. The foldable commode according to claim 4 wherein said seat
assembly comprises a seat having an inner perimeter which defines
an opening therethrough.
6. The foldable commode according to claim 5 wherein said seat
assembly further comprises a pivotable lid disposed over said
seat.
7. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said
attachment member comprises a pair of U-shaped brackets which
depend downwardly from the bottom surface of said platform.
8. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said foldable
frame further comprises a pair of armrests disposed on top of said
platform.
9. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said first leg
means comprises a substantially U-shaped leg member having a bight
portion slidably disposed in the race formed by said attachment
member.
10. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein, in the fully
open position, the top portion of said first leg means extends
distally substantially beyond the top of said platform, thereby
forming a backrest.
11. The foldable commode according to claim 1 wherein said platform
further comprises releasable locking means for releasably locking
the top portion of said first leg means in a desired location.
12. The foldable commode according to claim 11 wherein said
releasable locking means releasably locks the top portion of said
first leg means proximate the rear end of said platform in the
fully closed position.
13. The foldable commode according to claim 11 wherein said
releasable locking means releasably locks the top portion of said
first leg means proximate the front end of said platform in the
fully open position.
14. A foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front end, a
rear end, a top, and a bottom, said platform including a pair of
slotted members disposed on the bottom, each said slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, said
platform being provided with a through opening; a first pair of
legs, each of said legs having a top portion, a middle portion, and
a bottom portion, the top portions being slidably disposed in
respective races; and a second pair of legs, each of said legs
having a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the
top portions being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear
end of said platform, wherein the middle portion of each of said
second pair of legs is pivotally attached to the middle portion of
a respective one of said first pair of legs; wherein, in a fully
closed position, said first and second pairs of legs are disposed
substantially adjacent said platform; wherein, in a fully open
position, said first and second pairs of legs generally criss-cross
each other; whereby the top portions of each of said leg means is
prevented from separating from said platform; and whereby said
foldable commode assumes a folded state when said first and second
pairs of legs are in the fully closed position.
15. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said
platform further comprises a receptacle support means disposed
intermediate the front and rear ends, said receptacle support means
surrounding the through opening.
16. The foldable commode according to claim 15 further comprising a
receptacle which depends from said receptacle support means.
17. The foldable commode according to claim 14 further comprising a
seat assembly pivotally attached to said platform.
18. The foldable commode according to claim 17 wherein said seat
assembly comprises a seat having an inner perimeter which defines a
seat opening therethrough, wherein the seat opening is generally
positioned over the through opening in said platform.
19. The foldable commode according to claim 18 wherein said seat
assembly further comprises a pivotable lid disposed on top of said
seat.
20. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein each of said
slotted members comprises a U-shaped bracket attached to the bottom
of said platform, whereby said U-shaped brackets and the bottom of
said platform form the races.
21. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said
foldable commode further comprises a pair of armrests disposed on
top of said platform.
22. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said first
pair of legs comprises a substantially U-shaped leg member having a
bight portion slidably disposed in the race formed by said
attachment member.
23. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein, in the
fully open position, the top portion of said first pair of legs
extends upwardly substantially above the top of said platform,
thereby forming a backrest.
24. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said
platform further comprises releasable locking means for releasably
locking the top portion of said first pair of legs in a desired
location.
25. The foldable commode according to claim 24 wherein said
releasable locking means releasably locks the top portion of said
first pair of legs proximate the rear end of said platform in the
fully closed position.
26. The foldable commode according to claim 24 wherein said
releasable locking means releasably locks the top portion of said
first pair of legs proximate the front end of said platform in the
fully open position.
27. The foldable commode according to claim 26 wherein said
releasable locking means further comprises at least one clamp.
28. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein the top
portions of said first pair of legs are attached to each other.
29. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said first
pair of legs further comprises a connecting portion which connects
the top portion of each of said first pair of legs and which is
slidably disposed in the races.
30. The foldable commode according to claim 29 wherein said first
pair of legs has a substantially U-shape.
31. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said second
pair of legs are attached to each other.
32. The foldable commode according to claim 14 wherein said second
pair of legs further comprises a connecting portion which connects
the top portion of each of said second pair of legs.
33. The foldable commode according to claim 32 wherein said second
pair of legs has a substantially U-shape.
34. A foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front end, a
rear end, a top, and a bottom, said platform including a pair of
slotted members depending from the bottom, each said slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, said
platform being provided with a through opening; a first inverted
U-shaped leg member having a pair of legs connected by a bight
portion, each of said legs having a top portion, a middle portion,
and a bottom portion, the bight portion being slidably disposed in
the races; a second inverted U-shaped leg member having a pair of
legs connected by a bight portion, each of said legs having a top
portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the top portions
being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear end of said
platform, wherein the middle portion of each of said legs of said
second inverted U-shaped leg member is pivotally attached to the
middle portion of a respective one of said legs of said first
inverted U-shaped leg member; a receptacle support means disposed
intermediate the front and rear ends, said receptacle support means
surrounding the through opening; and a receptacle which depends
from said receptacle support means; wherein, in a fully closed
position, said first and second pairs of legs are disposed
substantially adjacent said platform; wherein, in a fully open
position, said first and second pairs of legs generally criss-cross
each other; whereby the top portions of each of said leg means is
prevented from separating from said platform; and whereby said
foldable commode assumes a folded state when said first and second
pairs of legs are in the fully closed position.
35. The foldable commode according to claim 34 further comprising a
seat assembly pivotally attached to said platform.
36. The foldable commode according to claim 35 wherein said seat
assembly includes a pivotable lid disposed on top of said seat.
37. The foldable commode according to claim 34 further comprising a
pair of armrests disposed on top of said platform.
38. The foldable commode according to claim 37 further comprising a
tissue roll holder attached to at least one of said armrests.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to commodes and,
more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a novel
foldable commode. The present invention concerns commodes in
general, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to
chair commodes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Persons who are infirm, disabled, invalid, or physically
limited in some way, even if only temporarily, often must use a
commode.
[0003] One primary consideration for such a commode is the space
available in the room, building, or facility for maneuvering,
positioning, and/or storing the device. Typically, a user is faced
with a minimum of open space or storage space. While maneuvering
the commode, the user or caretaker would likely collide with nearby
furniture, a wall, or a fixture. The transporting of the commode
into and out of a particular area becomes a necessity when other
users of the area cannot, or do not wish to, utilize the assistance
of the commode.
[0004] Furthermore, such a commode should be relatively
self-contained in order to reduce or prevent excessive protruding
or extending of various portions of the device, thereby minimizing
unintentional contact between the device and the user and/or the
often cramped surroundings.
[0005] Moreover, such a device should be capable of manipulation by
a single user without the aid of tools.
[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a foldable
commode which is easy to use and maneuver.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
foldable commode which adequately supports a user.
[0008] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
foldable commode which is deployable by a single user without
tools.
[0009] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
a foldable commode which is self-contained.
[0010] A still further object of the present invention is to
provide a foldable commode which is not unwieldy, and which is
convenient to use in a cramped setting.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
foldable commode which can lie generally flat when folded.
[0012] Other objects of the present invention, as well as
particular features, elements, and advantages thereof, will be
elucidated in, or be apparent from, the following description and
the accompanying drawing figures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a foldable
commode comprising a foldable frame, the foldable frame including:
a first leg means having a top portion and a bottom portion; a
second leg means having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein
the first and second leg means are pivotally attached to one
another intermediate respective top and bottom portions; and a
platform having a front end, a rear end, a top, and a bottom, the
platform including an attachment member disposed on the bottom
surface which defines a race for receiving the top portion of the
first leg means, thereby slidably attaching the first leg means to
the platform. The rear end of the platform is pivotally attached to
the upper portion of the second leg means. The foldable frame is
capable of being moved between a fully closed position and a fully
open position. In the fully closed position, the first and second
leg means are substantially disposed adjacent the platform. In the
fully open position, the first and second leg means generally
criss-cross each other and generally extend away from the platform.
Thus, the top portions of each of the leg means is prevented from
separating from the platform.
[0014] The platform further preferably includes a receptacle
support means disposed intermediate the front and rear ends of the
platform, and a receptacle may depend from the receptacle support
means.
[0015] The foldable frame may further comprise a seat assembly
pivotally attached to the platform. The seat assembly may comprise
a seat having an inner perimeter which defines an opening
therethrough. The seat assembly may include a pivotable lid
disposed over the seat.
[0016] In one preferred embodiment, the attachment member comprises
a pair of U-shaped brackets which depend downwardly from the bottom
surface of the platform.
[0017] The foldable frame also preferably may includes a pair of
armrests disposed on top of the platform.
[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the first leg means is a
substantially U-shaped leg member having a bight portion slidably
disposed in the race formed by the attachment member.
[0019] In the fully open position, the top portion of the first leg
means may extends distally substantially beyond the top of the
platform in order to form a backrest.
[0020] The platform may also include releasable locking means for
releasably locking the top portion of the first leg means in a
desired location. The releasable locking means may releasably lock
the top portion of the first leg means proximate the rear end of
the platform in the fully closed position, and/or the releasable
locking means may releasably lock the top portion of the first leg
means proximate the front end of the platform in the fully open
position.
[0021] In another preferred embodiment, the present invention
comprises a foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front
end, a rear end, a top, and a bottom, the platform including a pair
of slotted members disposed on the bottom, each slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, the
platform being provided with a through opening; a first pair of
legs, each of the legs having a top portion, a middle portion, and
a bottom portion, the top portions being slidably disposed in
respective races; and a second pair of legs, each of the legs
having a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the
top portions being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear
end of the platform, wherein the middle portion of each of the
second pair of legs is pivotally attached to the middle portion of
a respective one of the first pair of legs. In a fully closed
position, the first and second pairs of legs are disposed
substantially adjacent the platform. In a fully open position, the
first and second pairs of legs generally criss-cross each other.
Thus, the top portions of each of the leg means is prevented from
separating from the platform, and the foldable commode assumes a
folded state when the first and second pairs of legs are in the
fully closed position.
[0022] The platform may further preferably include a receptacle
support means disposed intermediate the front and rear ends, the
receptacle support means surrounding the through opening. A
receptacle may depend from the receptacle support means.
[0023] The foldable commode may also include a seat assembly
pivotally attached to the platform. The seat assembly may include a
seat having an inner perimeter which defines a seat opening
therethrough, wherein the seat opening is generally positioned over
the through opening in the platform. The seat assembly may also
further include a pivotable lid disposed on top of the seat.
[0024] In a particular embodiment, each of the slotted members
comprises a U-shaped bracket attached to the bottom of the
platform, whereby the U-shaped brackets and the bottom of the
platform form the races.
[0025] The foldable commode may also include a pair of armrests
disposed on top of the platform.
[0026] The first pair of legs may comprise a substantially U-shaped
leg member having a bight portion slidably disposed in the race
formed by the attachment member.
[0027] In the fully open position, the top portion of the first
pair of legs extends upwardly substantially above the top of the
platform, thereby forming a backrest.
[0028] The platform may also comprise releasable locking means for
releasably locking the top portion of the first pair of legs in a
desired location. The releasable locking means may releasably lock
the top portion of the first pair of legs proximate the rear end of
the platform in the fully closed position, and/or the releasable
locking means may releasably lock the top portion of the first pair
of legs proximate the front end of the platform in the fully open
position.
[0029] In a particular embodiment, the releasable locking means may
include at least one clamp.
[0030] In one preferred embodiment, the top portions of the first
pair of legs are attached to each other. The first pair of legs may
include a connecting portion which connects the top portion of each
of the first pair of legs and which is slidably disposed in the
races. The first pair of legs may have a substantially U-shape.
[0031] In a particular embodiment, the second pair of legs are
attached to each other. The second pair of legs may include a
connecting portion which connects the top portion of each of the
second pair of legs. The second pair of legs may have a
substantially U-shape.
[0032] In another preferred embodiment, the presention invention
relates to a foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front
end, a rear end, a top, and a bottom, the platform including a pair
of slotted members depending from the bottom, each slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, the
platform being provided with a through opening; a first inverted
U-shaped leg member having a pair of legs connected by a bight
portion, each of the legs having a top portion, a middle portion,
and a bottom portion, the bight portion being slidably disposed in
the races; a second inverted U-shaped leg member having a pair of
legs connected by a bight portion, each of the legs having a top
portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the top portions
being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear end of the
platform, wherein the middle portion of each of the legs of the
second inverted U-shaped leg member is pivotally attached to the
middle portion of a respective one of the legs of the first
inverted U-shaped leg member; a receptacle support means disposed
intermediate the front and rear ends, the receptacle support means
surrounding the through opening; and a receptacle which depends
from the receptacle support means.
[0033] In a fully closed position, the first and second pairs of
legs are disposed substantially adjacent the platform. In a fully
open position, the first and second pairs of legs generally
criss-cross each other. Thus, the top portions of each of the leg
means is prevented from separating from the platform, and the
foldable commode assumes a folded state when the first and second
pairs of legs are in the fully closed position.
[0034] The seat assembly may be pivotally attached to the platform.
The seat assembly may include a pivotable lid disposed on top of
the seat.
[0035] The commode may include a pair of armrests disposed on top
of the platform.
[0036] A tissue roll holder may be attached to at least one of the
armrests.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] Understanding of the present invention and the various
aspects thereof will be facilitated by reference to the
accompanying drawing figures, submitted for purposes of
illustration only and not intended to limit the scope of the
invention, in which:
[0038] FIGS. 1-8 illustrate one particular embodiment a foldable
commode according to the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a foldable commode according
to the present invention in the fully open position;
[0040] FIG. 2 is a side view of a foldable frame which is a part of
the foldable commode of FIG. 1;
[0041] FIG. 3 is a front view of the foldable frame of FIG. 2;
[0042] FIG. 4 is a top view of the foldable frame of FIG. 2;
[0043] FIG. 5 is a side view of the foldable frame of FIG. 2 in a
partially closed position;
[0044] FIG. 6 is a side view of the foldable frame of FIG. 2 in a
fully closed position;
[0045] FIG. 7 is a front view of the foldable commode of FIG. 1,
shown without the lid assembly for purposes of clarity of
illustration; and
[0046] FIG. 8 is a top view of the foldable commode of FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0047] Reference should now be made to the drawing figures, on
which similar or identical elements are given consistent
identifying numerals throughout the various figures thereof, and on
which parenthetical references to figure numbers direct the reader
to the view(s) on which the element(s) being described is (are)
best seen, although the element(s) may also be seen on other
views.
[0048] In one preferred embodiment, the present invention provides
a foldable commode comprising a foldable frame, the foldable frame
including: a first leg means having a top portion and a bottom
portion; a second leg means having a top portion and a bottom
portion, wherein the first and second leg means are pivotally
attached to one another intermediate respective top and bottom
portions; and a platform having a front end, a rear end, a top, and
a bottom, the platform including an attachment member disposed on
the bottom surface which defines a race for receiving the top
portion of the first leg means, thereby slidably attaching the
first leg means to the platform. The rear end of the platform is
pivotally attached to the upper portion of the second leg means.
The foldable frame is capable of being moved between a fully closed
position and a fully open position. In the fully closed position,
the first and second leg means are substantially disposed adjacent
the platform. In the fully open position, the first and second leg
means generally criss-cross each other and generally extend away
from the platform. Thus, the top portions of each of the leg means
is prevented from separating from the platform.
[0049] The platform further preferably includes a receptacle
support means disposed intermediate the front and rear ends of the
platform, and a receptacle may depend from the receptacle support
means.
[0050] The foldable frame may further comprise a seat assembly
pivotally attached to the platform. The seat assembly may comprise
a seat having an inner perimeter which defines an opening
therethrough. The seat assembly may include a pivotable lid
disposed over the seat.
[0051] In one preferred embodiment, the attachment member comprises
a pair of U-shaped brackets which depend downwardly from the bottom
surface of the platform.
[0052] The foldable frame also preferably may includes a pair of
armrests disposed on top of the platform.
[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the first leg means is a
substantially U-shaped leg member having a bight portion slidably
disposed in the race formed by the attachment member.
[0054] In the fully open position, the top portion of the first leg
means may extends distally substantially beyond the top of the
platform in order to form a backrest.
[0055] The platform may also include releasable locking means for
releasably locking the top portion of the first leg means in a
desired location. The releasable locking means may releasably lock
the top portion of the first leg means proximate the rear end of
the platform in the fully closed position, and/or the releasable
locking means may releasably lock the top portion of the first leg
means proximate the front end of the platform in the fully open
position.
[0056] In another preferred embodiment, the present invention
comprises a foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front
end, a rear end, a top, and a bottom, the platform including a pair
of slotted members disposed on the bottom, each slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, the
platform being provided with a through opening; a first pair of
legs, each of the legs having a top portion, a middle portion, and
a bottom portion, the top portions being slidably disposed in
respective races; and a second pair of legs, each of the legs
having a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the
top portions being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear
end of the platform, wherein the middle portion of each of the
second pair of legs is pivotally attached to the middle portion of
a respective one of the first pair of legs. In a fully closed
position, the first and second pairs of legs are disposed
substantially adjacent the platform. In a fully open position, the
first and second pairs of legs generally criss-cross each other.
Thus, the top portions of each of the leg means is prevented from
separating from the platform, and the foldable commode assumes a
folded state when the first and second pairs of legs are in the
fully closed position.
[0057] The platform may further preferably include a receptacle
support means disposed intermediate the front and rear ends, the
receptacle support means surrounding the through opening. A
receptacle may depend from the receptacle support means.
[0058] The foldable commode may also include a seat assembly
pivotally attached to the platform. The seat assembly may include a
seat having an inner perimeter which defines a seat opening
therethrough, wherein the seat opening is generally positioned over
the through opening in the platform. The seat assembly may also
further include a pivotable lid disposed on top of the seat.
[0059] In a particular embodiment, each of the slotted members
comprises a U-shaped bracket attached to the bottom of the
platform, whereby the U-shaped brackets and the bottom of the
platform form the races.
[0060] The foldable commode may also include a pair of armrests
disposed on top of the platform.
[0061] The first pair of legs may comprise a substantially U-shaped
leg member having a bight portion slidably disposed in the race
formed by the attachment member.
[0062] In the fully open position, the top portion of the first
pair of legs extends upwardly substantially above the top of the
platform, thereby forming a backrest.
[0063] The platform may also comprise releasable locking means for
releasably locking the top portion of the first pair of legs in a
desired location. The releasable locking means may releasably lock
the top portion of the first pair of legs proximate the rear end of
the platform in the fully closed position, and/or the releasable
locking means may releasably lock the top portion of the first pair
of legs proximate the front end of the platform in the fully open
position.
[0064] In a particular embodiment, the releasable locking means may
include at least one clamp.
[0065] In one preferred embodimnent, the top portions of the first
pair of legs are attached to each other. The first pair of legs may
include a connecting portion which connects the top portion of each
of the first pair of legs and which is slidably disposed in the
races. The first pair of legs may have a substantially U-shape.
[0066] In a particular embodiment, the second pair of legs are
attached to each other. The second pair of legs may include a
connecting portion which connects the top portion of each of the
second pair of legs. The second pair of legs may have a
substantially U-shape.
[0067] In another preferred embodiment, the presention invention
relates to a foldable commode comprising: a platform having a front
end, a rear end, a top, and a bottom, the platform including a pair
of slotted members depending from the bottom, each slotted member
defining a race extending from the front end to the rear end, the
platform being provided with a through opening; a first inverted
U-shaped leg member having a pair of legs connected by a bight
portion, each of the legs having a top portion, a middle portion,
and a bottom portion, the bight portion being slidably disposed in
the races; a second inverted U-shaped leg member having a pair of
legs connected by a bight portion, each of the legs having a top
portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the top portions
being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear end of the
platform, wherein the middle portion of each of the legs of the
second inverted U-shaped leg member is pivotally attached to the
middle portion of a respective one of the legs of the first
inverted U-shaped leg member; a receptacle support means disposed
intermediate the front and rear ends, the receptacle support means
surrounding the through opening; and a receptacle which depends
from the receptacle support means.
[0068] In a fully closed position, the first and second pairs of
legs are disposed substantially adjacent the platform. In a fully
open position, the first and second pairs of legs generally
criss-cross each other. Thus, the top portions of each of the leg
means is prevented from separating from the platform, and the
foldable commode assumes a folded state when the first and second
pairs of legs are in the fully closed position.
[0069] The seat assembly may be pivotally attached to the platform.
The seat assembly may include a pivotable lid disposed on top of
the seat.
[0070] The commode may include a pair of armrests disposed on top
of the platform.
[0071] A tissue roll holder may be attached to at least one of the
armrests.
[0072] FIGS. 1-8 illustrate one preferred embodiment of the present
invention. A foldable commode 10 includes a foldable frame 11
comprised of a platform 12, a first leg means 14, and a second leg
means 16, as well as a receptacle 18 and a lid assembly 20. Thus,
the platform 12 and first and second leg means together form a
foldable frame 11 for the other elements of the foldable commode
10, as further described hereinbelow.
[0073] FIGS. 2-6 show the foldable frame 11, i.e. the receptacle 18
and the lid assembly 20 are omitted for purposes of clarity of
illustration of the other elements of the foldable commode 10.
[0074] FIGS. 7-8 show the foldable commode 10, wherein the lid
assembly 20 is omitted for purposes of clarity of illustration of
the other elements of the foldable commode 10.
[0075] The platform 12 has a front end 30, a rear end 32, a top 34,
and a bottom 36. The platform 12 comprises a front support 40, a
rear support 42, and a pair of side supports 46. The platform 12
includes a means for slidingly mounting one of the leg means or an
attachment means 50, or attachment member, which in this preferred
embodiment, comprise a pair of U-shaped brackets or slotted members
52 depending from the bottom 36 of the platform 12, each slotted
member 52 defining a race 54 extending from the front end 30 to the
rear end 32. The U-shaped brackets or slotted members 52 are shown
mounted between the front support 40 and the rear support 42 and
depend therefrom. The framework established by the front support
40, rear support 42 and side supports 46 of the platform 12 defines
a through opening 55 to be utilized by the user and into and out of
which the receptacle 18 may be moved.
[0076] In the illustrated preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the
first leg means 14 comprises a first inverted U-shaped leg member
60 having a pair of legs 62 connected by a connecting portion or
bight portion 64, each of the legs 62 having a top portion, a
middle portion, and a bottom portion, the bight portion 64 being
slidably disposed in the races 54. The second leg means 16
comprises a second inverted U-shaped leg member 70 having a pair of
legs 72 connected by a bight portion 74, each of the legs 72 having
a top portion, a middle portion, and a bottom portion, the top
portions being pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rear end
32 of the platform 12 at pivot points 80. By way of example, if the
rear support 42 is constructed from hollow tubing, then a bar or
rod (not shown) may be disposed inside the rear support 42 so as to
freely rotate therewithin, wherein the top portions of the second
U-shaped leg members 70 may be fixedly attached to the bar or rod,
thereby allowing the second leg members 70 to pivot with respect to
the platform 12. The middle portion of each of the legs 72 of the
second inverted U-shaped leg members 70 is pivotally attached to
the middle portion of a respective one of the legs 62 of the first
inverted U-shaped leg member 60 at pivot points 82.
[0077] As best seen in FIG. 2, the first and second pairs of legs
62, 72 generally criss-cross each other in a fully open
position.
[0078] A receptacle support means 86 is shown disposed intermediate
the front and rear ends 30, 32. The receptacle support means 86
surrounds the through opening 55 such that the receptacle 18
depends from the receptacle support means 86. The receptacle 18 is
preferably removably disposed in, or on, the receptacle support
means 86, thereby providing ease of cleaning, sanitizing, and/or
storage. The receptacle support means 86 shown in the Figures
comprises two generally V-shaped support members 88 fixedly
attached to the side supports 46 of the platform 12 so as to span
laterally across the through opening 55 in the platform 12. Thus, a
receptacle 18 may be provided with a lip 90 so that the lip 90 may
engage the V-shaped support members 88 when the receptacle 18 is
lowered into the through hole 55.
[0079] A seat assembly 20 may be pivotally attached to the platform
12. The seat assembly 20 preferably comprises a seat member 102
having an inner perimeter 104 which defines an opening 106
therethrough. The seat assembly 20 may also preferably comprise a
pivotable lid 110 disposed over the seat 102. The seat assembly 20
may be adapted for removable attachment to the platform 12 or some
other portion of the foldable frame 11.
[0080] In the Figures, the seat assembly 20, that is, both the seat
member 102 and the lid 110 are pivotally mounted on the rear
support 42. The seat assembly 20 may be pivotally mounted by
fingers 112 which are elastic enough to allow a snap fit onto the
platform 12 and which are strong enough to allow repeated use. The
seat assembly 20 may be either fixedly or removedly attached to the
foldable frame 11.
[0081] A pair of armrests 116 may be preferably disposed on top of
the platform 12 in order to provide support and assistance to the
user. Each armrest 116 is shown fixedly attached to the front
support 40 and rear support 42.
[0082] Preferably, the top portion of the first leg means 14
extends distally substantially beyond the top of the platform 12,
thereby forming a backrest 120. The backrest 120 may assist in
limiting the backward movement of the lid assembly 20 or a part
thereof.
[0083] FIG. 5 shows one preferred embodiment of the present
invention, without a lid assembly 20 or receptacle 18, in a
partially closed state, wherein the top portion of the first leg
member 60 has been slid backward in the races 54 so that the first
and second leg members 60, 70 are disposed generally next to each
other. In order to fully close the foldable commode 10, the
platform 12 and legs 60, 70 would subsequently be pressed
together.
[0084] FIG. 6 shows the foldable commode 10 of the present
invention in a fully closed position, wherein the first and second
pairs of legs 62, 72 are disposed substantially adjacent the
platform 12.
[0085] Thus, the top portions of each of the leg means 14, 16 are
prevented from separating from the platform 12, and the foldable
commode 10 assumes a folded state when the first and second pairs
of legs 62, 72 are in the fully closed position.
[0086] FIGS. 7-8 show the receptacle 18 disposed atop, or suspended
from, the receptacle support means 86.
[0087] The platform 12 may further include a releasable locking
means for releasably locking the top portion of the first leg means
14 in a desired location. The releasable locking means may
releasably lock the top portion of the first leg means 14 proximate
the rear end of the platform 12 in the fully closed position.
Alternatively, or in addition, the releasable locking means
releasably may lock the top portion of the first leg means 14
proximate the front end of the platform 12 in the fully open
position. The releasable locking means may comprise, for example, a
clamp.
[0088] Preferably the foldable commode 10, and in particular, the
foldable frame 11, is made from a lightweight material which is
strong enough to support the weight of the intended user. Water
resistant material is preferably used. Aluminum, wood, or various
plastics, such as polyethylene, may be suitably utilized,
especially for portions or elements which are not intended to be in
direct with liquids or contaminants. The foldable commode 10 may
also be fabricated from a combination of materials, such as
aluminum and plastic. The foldable commode 10, especially all
exposed parts thereof, is preferably formed or finished to avoid
sharp points or edges.
[0089] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the foldable frame
11 is constructed from tubular members, such as tubular plastic or
metal, so as to provide, for example, adequate strength and support
and in order to minimize weight.
[0090] As seen, for example, in FIGS. 1-3, the first and second leg
means 14, 16 are pivotally attached to one another in their middle
portions, i.e. intermediate respective top and bottom portions at
pivot points 82. A pivot connection means such as a rivet, rod,
bolt, or some other type of connector may be used to connect the
first and second leg means 14, 16.
[0091] The free distal ends of each of the legs 62, 72 may
preferably be provided with an anti-skid cap 122 made from rubber
or a rubber-like plastic or some other material which retards
slipping between the distal ends of the legs 62, 72 and the
supporting surface upon which the commode 10 is placed.
[0092] A tissue roll holder 124 may be attached to at least one of
the armrests or other part of the commode 10.
[0093] As best seen in FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, the illustrated preferred
embodiment includes an attachment means 50 where each race 54 is
formed from a longitudinal bar or rod 52 attached to and spaced
apart from the bottom 36 of the platform 12 so that each race 54 is
adapted to allow at least a part of the upper portion of the first
pair of legs 62 to slide therein.
[0094] A clamp or clip may be attached to the platform 12 and over
the top portion of the first leg means 12, such as over the bight
portion 64 of the U-shaped first leg member 60.
[0095] Thus, the top portions of each leg means 14, 16 are
contained by the attachment means 50 whether in the first resting
position, the second resting position, or anywhere
therebetween.
[0096] In an alternate preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the first leg means 14 comprises a U-shaped leg member
60, while the second leg means 16 comprises two separate legs
62.
[0097] In yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, both the first and second leg means 14,16 comprise two
separate legs. For example, the top portions of the first leg means
14 may comprise a loop portion which slidably engages respective
longitudinal rods disposed on the platform 12. If the legs are
hollow tubes, a loop member such as an eyelet may be inserted into
a leg and attached thereto.
[0098] A clamp may be provided for releasably engaging the top
portion 20 of the first leg means 14. Thus, the clamp can
releasably lock the first leg means 14 in position. Preferably, the
clamp is constructed of sufficient size and strength so that a user
may engage and disengage the clamp using only manual power, i.e.
without the assistance of tools or another person.
[0099] Preferably, the foldable frame 11 is made from a
lightweight, but strong, construction. It is particularly
preferable to fabricate such members from tubular aluminum or steel
stock. Alternately, such members could be made from other materials
such as plastic, wood, or other metals, which may or may not
utilize tubular construction, depending upon a particular
application.
[0100] It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among
those elucidated in, or made apparent from, the preceding
description, are efficiently attained and, since certain changes
may be made in the above construction without departing from the
scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in
the above description or shown on the accompanying drawing figures
shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting
sense.
[0101] It is also to be understood that the following claims are
intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the
invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the
invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall
therebetween.
* * * * *