U.S. patent application number 14/625921 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-28 for technologies for defecation postures.
The applicant listed for this patent is William Good. Invention is credited to William Good.
Application Number | 20160113453 14/625921 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52993788 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160113453 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Good; William |
April 28, 2016 |
TECHNOLOGIES FOR DEFECATION POSTURES
Abstract
An apparatus comprises a walking frame which includes a first
side portion, a second side portion, and a front bridge. The first
side portion is U-shaped as defined via a first front leg, a first
back leg, and a first handle portion spanning therebetween. The
second side portion is U-shaped as defined via a second front leg,
a second back leg, and a second handle portion spanning
therebetween. The first handle portion and the second handle
portion extend along a first horizontal plane. The front bridge
spans between the first front leg and the second front leg along a
second horizontal plane such that the walking frame is U-shaped.
The apparatus comprises a back bridge spanning between the first
back leg and the second back leg along a third horizontal plane.
The first horizontal plane is closer to the second horizontal plane
than the third horizontal plane.
Inventors: |
Good; William; (Newark,
DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Good; William |
Newark |
DE |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
52993788 |
Appl. No.: |
14/625921 |
Filed: |
February 19, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/US14/62708 |
Oct 28, 2014 |
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14625921 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/254 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 17/028 20130101;
A47K 2017/006 20130101; A47K 17/026 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47K 17/02 20060101
A47K017/02 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for aiding in squatting during defecation, the
apparatus comprising: a walking frame which includes a first
lateral side portion, a second lateral side portion, and a front
bridge, wherein the first lateral side portion is U-shaped as
defined via a first front leg, a first back leg, and a first handle
portion spanning therebetween, wherein the second lateral side
portion is U-shaped as defined via a second front leg, a second
back leg, and a second handle portion spanning therebetween,
wherein the first handle portion and the second handle portion
extend along a first horizontal plane, wherein the front bridge
spans between the first front leg and the second front leg along a
second horizontal plane such that the walking frame is U-shaped;
and a back bridge spanning between the first back leg and the
second back leg along a third horizontal plane, wherein the first
horizontal plane is closer to the second horizontal plane than the
third horizontal plane.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the back bridge includes an
end portion, wherein the end portion includes a pair of opposing
jaws which engage one of the first back leg and the second back
leg.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first back
leg and the second back leg is configured to support the end
portion.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising: a collar extending
about one of the first back leg and the second back leg, wherein
the collar supports the end portion.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the collar is coupled to the
end portion.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the collar is coupled to the
end portion removably.
7. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising: a pin, wherein the
collar is coupled to one of the first back leg and the second back
leg via the pin.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the pin is a locking pin.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, where the back bridge includes a pair
of opposing end portions, wherein each of the opposing end portions
includes a pair of jaws defining an open space therebetween,
wherein the pairs of jaws engage the first back leg and the second
back leg in the open spaces.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the back bridge is configured
for pivoting about a vertical axis via at least one of the first
back leg and the second back leg.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the back bridge is configured
for pivoting about a horizontal axis via at least one of the first
back leg and the second back leg.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a Continuation-in-Part of
International Application No. PCT/US14/62708 filed 28 Oct. 2014;
which claims the benefit of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser.
No. 14/064,446 filed 28 Oct. 2013, each of which are herein fully
incorporated by reference for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Generally, the present disclosure relates to human health.
More particularly, the present disclosure relates to defecation
postures.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In the present disclosure, where a document, an act and/or
an item of knowledge is referred to and/or discussed, then such
reference and/or discussion is not an admission that the document,
the act and/or the item of knowledge and/or any combination thereof
was at the priority date, publicly available, known to the public,
part of common general knowledge and/or otherwise constitutes prior
art under the applicable statutory provisions; and/or is known to
be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which the
present disclosure may be concerned with.
[0004] People defecate to remove fecal matter. One way to defecate
is via a squatting posture. Another way to defecate is via a
sitting posture. The squatting posture is commonly believed to be
healthier, and more natural than the sitting posture.
[0005] A typical toilet seat is structured to promote defecation in
the sitting posture. Therefore, using the toilet seat to defecate
in the squatting posture is bothersome. For example, one approach
for achieving the squatting posture involves standing on the toilet
seat in the squatting posture. However, such approach can make the
toilet seat dirty and/or break the toilet seat. Further, sick,
disabled, and/or frail people can have difficulty acting in
accordance with such approach. Another approach for achieving the
squatting posture involves placing a book stack, a stepping stool,
and/or a platform below the toilet seat for feet raising, while
conventionally sitting on the toilet seat. However, such approach
can be cumbersome, time-consuming, and dangerous, especially for
sick, disabled, and/or frail people. Further, such approach can
complicate quick leg angle/lift customization, especially for users
of varying body types.
[0006] While certain aspects of conventional technologies have been
discussed to facilitate the present disclosure, no technical
aspects are disclaimed. The claims may encompass at least one of
the conventional technical aspects discussed herein.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0007] The present disclosure may at least partially address at
least one of the above. However, the present disclosure may prove
useful to other technical areas. Therefore, the claims should not
be construed as necessarily limited to addressing any of the
above.
[0008] An example embodiment of the present disclosure provides an
apparatus for aiding in squatting during defecation. The apparatus
comprises a walking frame which includes a first lateral side
portion, a second lateral side portion, and a front bridge. The
first lateral side portion is U-shaped as defined via a first front
leg, a first back leg, and a first handle portion spanning
therebetween. The second lateral side portion is U-shaped as
defined via a second front leg, a second back leg, and a second
handle portion spanning therebetween. The first handle portion and
the second handle portion extend along a first horizontal plane.
The front bridge spans between the first front leg and the second
front leg along a second horizontal plane such that the walking
frame is U-shaped. The apparatus comprises a back bridge spanning
between the first back leg and the second back leg along a third
horizontal plane. The first horizontal plane is closer to the
second horizontal plane than the third horizontal plane.
[0009] The present disclosure may be embodied in the form
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, attention is
called to the fact that the drawings are illustrative. Variations
are contemplated as being part of the disclosure, limited only by
the scope of the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The accompanying drawings illustrate example embodiments of
the present disclosure. Such drawings are not to be construed as
necessarily limiting the disclosure. Like numbers and/or similar
numbering scheme can refer to like and/or similar elements
throughout.
[0011] FIG. 1 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of independently controllable U-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 2A shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus in a first preset defecation posture position according
to the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 2B shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus in a second preset defecation posture position according
to the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 3 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of dependently controllable U-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 4 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of independently controllable L-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 5 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a case depending from the apparatus according to
the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 6 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a hook depending from the apparatus according to
the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 7 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a handgrip, a light source, and a cushion sleeve
according to the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 8 shows an example embodiment of a wheeled defecation
posture apparatus having a pair of movable cantilevered members
uniquely associated with a pair of footrests according to the
present disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 9A shows a top view of an example embodiment of an
apparatus comprising a foot support positioned in a first position
according to the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 9B shows a top view of an example embodiment of an
apparatus comprising a foot support positioned in a second position
according to the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 10A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining a rectangular opening according to the
present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 10B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining an L-shaped opening according to the
present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 10C shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining a U-shaped opening according to the present
disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 11 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a foot
support coupled to a side frame leg via a side frame leg opening
according to the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 12 shows a top view of an example embodiment of a foot
support according to the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 13A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg having an inverted U-shape footrest coupled thereto
according to the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 13B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg having an upright U-shape footrest coupled thereto
according to the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 14 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a side
frame leg having a footrest coupled thereto via a collar according
to the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 15 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
wheeled footrest according to the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 16 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
footrest according to the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 17 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
collar supported via a pin extending through a side frame leg
according to the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 18A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
collar having an upper inner wall and a lower inner wall according
to the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 18B shows a top view of an example embodiment of a
collar having an upper inner wall according to the present
disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 18C shows a top view of an example embodiment of a
collar having a lower inner wall according to the present
disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 19A shows a first perspective view of an example
embodiment of a walking frame according to the present
disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 19B shows a second perspective view of an example
embodiment of a walking frame according to the present
disclosure.
[0038] FIG. 20 shows a top view of an example embodiment of a
walking frame according to the present disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 21 shows a front view of an example embodiment of a
walking frame according to the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 22 shows a back view of an example embodiment of a
walking frame according to the present disclosure.
[0041] FIG. 23 shows a first profile view of an example embodiment
of a walking frame according to the present disclosure.
[0042] FIG. 24 shows a second profile view of an example embodiment
of a walking frame according to the present disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of an example embodiment of a
walking frame according to the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0044] The present disclosure is now described more fully with
reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example
embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present
disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and
should not be construed as necessarily being limited to the example
embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these example embodiments are
provided so that the present disclosure is thorough and complete,
and fully conveys the concepts of the present disclosure to those
skilled in the relevant art. In addition, features described with
respect to certain example embodiments may be combined/sub-combined
in and/or with various other example embodiments. Different aspects
and/or elements of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, may be
combined/sub-combined in a similar manner.
[0045] The terminology used herein can imply direct or indirect,
full or partial, temporary or permanent, action or inaction. For
example, when an element is referred to as being "on," "connected"
or "coupled" to another element, then the element can be directly
on, connected or coupled to the other element and/or intervening
elements may be present, including indirect and/or direct variants.
In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly
connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no
intervening elements present.
[0046] Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to
describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or
sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These
terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region,
layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or
section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or
section discussed below could be termed a second element,
component, region, layer, or section without departing from the
teachings of the present disclosure.
[0047] The terminology used herein is for describing particular
example embodiments only and is not intended to be necessarily
limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular
forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms
as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms
"comprises," "includes" and/or "comprising," "including" when used
in this specification, specify the presence of stated features,
integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do
not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other
features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or
groups thereof.
[0048] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described
herein with reference to illustrations of idealized embodiments
(and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. As such,
variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for
example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be
expected. Thus, the example embodiments of the present disclosure
should not be construed as necessarily limited to the particular
shapes of regions illustrated herein, but are to include deviations
in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.
[0049] Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be formed
from a same, structurally continuous piece, such as being unitary,
and/or be separately manufactured and/or connected, such as being
an assembly and/or modules. Any and/or all elements, as disclosed
herein, can be manufactured via any manufacturing processes,
whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and/or
other any other types of manufacturing. For example, some
manufacturing processes include three dimensional (30) printing,
laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling,
pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydroforming, injection
molding, lithography, and so forth.
[0050] Any and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can include,
whether partially and/or fully, a solid, including a metal, a
mineral, an amorphous material, a ceramic, a glass ceramic, an
organic solid, such as wood and/or a polymer, such as rubber, a
composite material, a semiconductor, a nanomaterial, a biomaterial
and/or any combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as
disclosed herein, can include, whether partially and/or fully, a
coating, including an informational coating, such as ink, an
adhesive coating, a melt-adhesive coating, such as vacuum seal
and/or heat seal, a release coating, such as tape liner, a low
surface energy coating, an optical coating, such as for tint,
color, hue, saturation, tone, shade, transparency, translucency,
non-transparency, luminescence, reflection, anti-reflection and/or
holography, a photo-sensitive coating, an electronic and/or thermal
property coating, such as for passivity, insulation, resistance or
conduction, a magnetic coating, a water-resistant and/or waterproof
coating, a scent coating and/or any combinations thereof. Any
and/or all elements, as disclosed herein, can be rigid, flexible,
and/or any other combinations thereof. Any and/or all elements, as
disclosed herein, can be identical and/or different from each other
in material, shape, size, color and/or any measurable dimension,
such as length, width, height, depth, area, orientation, perimeter,
volume, breadth, density, temperature, resistance, and so
forth.
[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and
scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly
understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this
disclosure belongs. The terms, such as those defined in commonly
used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that
is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art
and should not be interpreted in an idealized and/or overly formal
sense unless expressly so defined herein.
[0052] Furthermore, relative terms such as "below," "lower,"
"above," and "upper" may be used herein to describe one element's
relationship to another element as illustrated in the accompanying
drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different
orientations of illustrated technologies in addition to the
orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if
a device in the accompanying drawings were turned over, then the
elements described as being on the "lower" side of other elements
would then be oriented on "upper" sides of the other elements.
Similarly, if the device in one of the figures were turned over,
elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements would
then be oriented "above" the other elements. Therefore, the example
terms "below" and "lower" can encompass both an orientation of
above and below.
[0053] As used herein, the term "about" and/or "substantially"
refers to a +/-10% variation from the nominal value/term. Such
variation is always included in any given value/term provided
herein, whether or not such variation is specifically referred
thereto.
[0054] U.S. Pat. No. 6,872,039 is fully incorporated by reference
herein for all purposes. If any disclosures are incorporated herein
by reference and such disclosures conflict in part and/or in whole
with the present disclosure, then to the extent of conflict, and/or
broader disclosure, and/or broader definition of terms, the present
disclosure controls. If such disclosures conflict in part and/or in
whole with one another, then to the extent of conflict, the
later-dated disclosure controls.
[0055] FIG. 1 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of independently controllable U-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure.
[0056] An apparatus 100 is for a user, such as a person, sitting on
a toilet seat 102, which can be any type of toilet seat. Apparatus
100 is sufficiently light for user portability. Apparatus 100 is
for placing onto a ground surface. As used herein, the ground
surface includes indoors, outdoors, bathroom floors, toilet floors,
carpeted floors, and/or any surface on which people can walk and/or
stand on, whether stationary and/or moving. Note that any pairing
elements of apparatus 100 can be identical to each other or
different from each other in any way. Apparatus 100 includes a pair
of U-shaped opposing side frames 104 coupled to each other via a
front bridge 108 and a back bridge 118 opposing front bridge 108.
Frames 104 are spaced apart such that at least seat 102 fits
therebetween with the user sitting on seat 102.
[0057] Frames 104 are defined via a pair of opposing bases 124, a
pair of opposing front legs 106 extending from bases 124, and a
pair of opposing back legs 118 extending from bases 124. Note that
legs 106 and legs 118 are front and back with respect to each
other. Note that one of frames 104 can be identical to or different
from the other of frames 104 in any manner, such as at least
length, height, width, size, shape, weight, perimeter, area,
volume, material, density, rigidity, and so forth. Frames 104 are
sufficiently rigid to provide lift support to the user, such as a
sick, disabled, and/or frail person. Frames 104 are sufficiently
stable such that the user can place the user's hands thereon during
defecation.
[0058] Bases 124 are similarly sized, parallel, straight, metallic,
and elliptically tubular hollow shafts. Bases 124 are sufficiently
rigid/stable to provide lift support to the user. Note that whether
partially or fully, bases 124 can be identical to or different from
each other in length, height, width, size, shape, weight,
perimeter, area, volume, material, density, rigidity, inclination
angle, and so forth. Bases 124 can include plastic, wood, rubber,
and so forth. Bases 124 can be hollow, such as via containing a
fluid, like a liquid or air, or full, such as via being a solid.
Bases 124 can be segmented internally and/or externally. Bases 124
can be wavy, arcuate, projecting toward or away from a ground
surface, projecting toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any
diagonals thereof, and/or any combination thereof. Bases 124 can be
surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Bases 124 can
be fully continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Bases 124 can
also be oriented in a converging manner or a diverging manner with
respect to each other. Bases 124 can also be plates, strips,
sheets, and so forth. Bases 124 can be fixed or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. Bases 124 can be an
assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as molded or 30 printed. Bases 124
can have cross-sections of any type, such as a parallelogram, a
polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth. Bases 124 can have a
tube/strip/handle extending from bases 124 above, below, and/or
lateral to bases 124
[0059] Legs 106 are similarly sized, parallel, straight, metallic,
and elliptically tubular hollow shafts. Legs 106 are sufficiently
rigid/stable to support to bases 124. Note that whether partially
or fully, legs 106 can be identical to or different from each other
in length, height, width, size, shape, weight, perimeter, area,
volume, material, density, rigidity, inclination angle, and so
forth. Legs 106 can include plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth.
Legs 106 can be hollow, such as via containing a fluid, like a
liquid or air, or full, such as via being a solid. Legs 106 can be
segmented internally and/or externally.
[0060] Legs 106 can be in fluid communication with bases 124. Legs
106 can be wavy, arcuate, projecting toward or away from each
other, projecting toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any
diagonals thereof, and/or any combination thereof. Legs 106 can be
surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Legs 106 can be
fully continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Legs 106 can
also be oriented in a converging manner or a diverging manner with
respect to each other. Legs 106 can be an assembly, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary, such
as via molding or 30 printing. Legs 106 can also be plates, strips,
sheets, and so forth. Legs 106 can be fixed or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. Legs 106 can be an assembly
with bases 124, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary with bases 124, such as via molding or 30
printing. Legs 106 can have cross-sections of any type, such as a
parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth.
Legs 106 are extending from bases 124 in a curved manner at an
angle of about 95 degrees with respect bases 104. However, note
that such extension can also be in an acute manner and/or such
inclination can be less than about 95 degrees, such as about 90
degrees or about 85 degrees, or greater than about 95 degrees, such
as about 100 degrees or about 105 degrees. Note that although legs
106 are foremost, in other example embodiments, legs 106 are not
foremost. At least one of legs 106 can have a cap 126 thereon. Cap
126 is configured to prevent ground surface scratching. Cap 126 can
include rubber, plastic, and so forth. Note that at least one of
legs 106 can also function without cap 126.
[0061] Legs 118 are similarly sized, parallel, straight, metallic,
and elliptically tubular hollow shafts. Legs 118 are sufficiently
rigid/stable to support to bases 124. Note that whether partially
or fully, legs 118 can be identical to or different from each other
in length, height, width, size, shape, weight, perimeter, area,
volume, material, density, rigidity, inclination angle, and so
forth. Legs 118 can include plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth.
Legs 118 can be hollow, such as via containing a fluid, like a
liquid or air, or full, such as via being a solid. Legs 118 can be
segmented internally and/or externally. Legs 118 can be in fluid
communication with bases 124 and/or legs 106. Legs 118 can be wavy,
arcuate, projecting toward or away from each other, projecting
toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals thereof,
and/or any combination thereof. Legs 118 can be surfaced smoothly,
roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Legs 118 can be fully continuous,
partially continuous, perforated in any manner/size/shape, and/or
any combination thereof. Legs 118 can also be oriented in a
converging manner or a diverging manner with respect to each other.
Legs 118 can also be plates, strips, sheets, and so forth. Legs 118
can be fixed or rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. Legs 118
can be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30
printing. Legs 118 can be an assembly with bases 124, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with
bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing. Legs 118 can be an
assembly with legs 106 and bases 124, such as via a plurality of
telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality
of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with legs 106 and
bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing. Legs 118 can have
cross-sections of any type, such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an
ellipse, a triangle, and so forth. Legs 118 are extending from
bases 124 in a curved manner at an angle of about 95 degrees with
respect to bases 124. However, note that such extension can also be
in an acute manner and/or such inclination can be less than about
95 degrees, such as about 90 degrees or about 85 degrees, or
greater than about 95 degrees, such as about 100 degrees or about
105 degrees. Note that although legs 118 are rearmost, in other
example embodiments, legs 106 are not rearmost. At least one of
legs 118 can have cap 126 thereon. Note that at least one of legs
118 can also function without cap 126.
[0062] Bridge 116 is spanning between legs 118. Bridge 116 is
opposing bridge 108. Bridge 116 is parallel to bridge 108. Bridge
116 is straight, metallic, and elliptically tubular hollow shaft.
Note that whether partially or fully, bridge 116 can include
plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth. Bridge 116 can be hollow, such
as via containing a fluid, like a liquid or air, or full, such as
via being a solid. Bridge 116 can be segmented internally and/or
externally. Bridge 116 can be in fluid communication with legs 106,
bases 124, and/or legs 118. Bridge 116 can be wavy, arcuate,
projecting toward or away from the ground surface, projecting
toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals thereof,
and/or any combination thereof. Bridge 118 can be surfaced
smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Bridge 116 can be fully
continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Bridge 116 can
be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. Bridge
116 can be an assembly with at least one of bases 124, such as via
a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened
pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary
with at least one of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing.
Bridge 116 can also be a plate, a strip, a sheet, and so forth.
Bridge 116 can be an assembly with at least one of legs 118 and at
least one of bases 124, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary with at least one of legs 118
and at least one of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing.
Bridge 116 can have a cross-section of any type, such as a
parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth.
Bridge 116 can be fixed or rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable.
Bridge 116 is sufficiently rigid/stable to provide support to the
user, such as a sick, disabled, and/or frail person. At least at
one point, bridge 116 spans above seat 102. At least at one point,
bridge 116 is further from the ground surface than seat 102.
Therefore, bridge 116 is further from the ground surface than seat
102 when frames 104 are standing on the ground surface with seat
102 between frames 104.
[0063] In some example embodiments, bridge 116 is lacking. Bridge
108 is spanning between legs 106. Bridge 108 is opposing bridge
116. Bridge 108 is straight, metallic, and elliptically tubular
hollow shaft. Bridge 108 is parallel to bridge 116. Note that
whether partially or fully, bridge 108 can include plastic, wood,
rubber, and so forth. Bridge 108 can be hollow, such as via
containing a fluid, like a liquid or air, or full, such as via
being a solid. Bridge 108 can be segmented internally and/or
externally. Bridge 108 can be in fluid communication with legs 106,
bases 124, and/or legs 118. Bridge 108 can be wavy, arcuate,
projecting toward or away from the ground surface, projecting
toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals thereof,
and/or any combination thereof. Bridge 108 can be surfaced
smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Bridge 108 can be fully
continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Bridge 108 can
be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. Bridge
108 can be an assembly with at least one of bases 124, such as via
a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened
pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary
with at least one of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing.
Bridge 108 can also be a plate, a strip, a sheet, and so forth.
Bridge 108 can be an assembly with at least one of legs 106 and at
least one of bases 124, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary with at least one of legs 106
and at least one of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing.
Bridge 108 can have a cross-section of any type, such as a
parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth.
Bridge 108 can be fixed or rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable.
Bridge 108 is sufficiently rigid/stable to provide leg support to
the user, such as a sick, disabled, and/or frail person. At least
at one point, bridge 108 spans below seat 102, in front of seat
102. At least at one point, bridge 108 is closer to the ground
surface than seat 102. Therefore, bridge 108 is closer to the
ground surface than seat 102 when frames 104 are standing on the
ground surface with seat 102 between frames 104. The user can seat
on seat 102 between bridge 108 and bridge 116, while being between
frames 104.
[0064] A pair of footrests 110 extends from bridge 108. Footrests
110 are U-shaped, metallic, and elliptically tubular hollow shafts.
Footrests 110 are parallel to each other. Note that whether
partially or fully, footrests 110 can include plastic, wood,
rubber, and so forth. Footrests 110 can be hollow, such as via
containing a fluid, like a liquid or air, or full, such as via
being a solid. Footrests 110 can be segmented internally and/or
externally. Footrests 110 can be in fluid communication with legs
106, bases 124, and/or legs 118. Footrests 110 can be wavy,
arcuate, acute, projecting toward or away from the ground surface,
projecting toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals
thereof, and/or any combination thereof. Footrests 110 can be
surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Footrests 110
can be fully continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Footrests 110
can be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30
printing. Footrests 110 can be an assembly with at least one of
legs 106, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary with at least one of legs 106, such as via
molding or 30 printing. Footrests 110 can also be a plate, a strip,
a sheet, and so forth. Footrests 110 can be an assembly with at
least one of legs 106 and at least one of bases 124, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with at
least one of legs 106 and at least one of bases 124, such as via
molding or 30 printing. Footrests 110 can have a cross-section of
any type, such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a
triangle, and so forth. Footrests 110 can be fixed to bridge 108
with respect to at least one of legs 106 or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable/pivoting with respect to at
least one of legs 106. Footrests 110 are sufficiently rigid/stable
to provide leg support to the user, such as a sick, disabled,
and/or frail person.
[0065] Each of footrests 110 includes a pair of metallic,
elliptically tubular, footrest sleeves 110.1. Note, that each of
footrests 110 can include only one sleeve 110.1 or at least three
sleeves 110.1. Sleeves 110.1 are hollow therein for mounting onto
bridge
[0066] 108. Sleeves 110.1 are mounted on bridge 108. Although
bridge 108 includes an area 108.1 intermediate to footrests 110, in
other example embodiments, area 108.1 is lacking. Footrests 110
extend from sleeves 108.1. Note that whether partially or fully,
sleeves 110.1 can include plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth.
Sleeves 110.1 can be wavy, arcuate, acute, projecting toward or
away from the ground surface, projecting toward seat 102 or away
from seat 102, any diagonals thereof, and/or any combination
thereof. Sleeves 110.1 can be surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly,
and so forth. Sleeves 110.1 can be fully continuous, partially
continuous, perforated in any manner/size/shape, and/or any
combination thereof. Sleeves 110.1 can be an assembly, such as via
a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened
pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be
unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. Footrests 110 can be
an assembly with bridge 108, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary with bridge 108, such as via
molding or 30 printing. Sleeves 110.1 can have a cross-section of
any type, such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a
triangle, and so forth. Sleeves 110.1 can be fixed with respect to
bridge 108 or rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable/pivoting with
respect to bridge 108. Sleeves 110.1 are sufficiently rigid/stable
such that footrests 110 securely extend from sleeves 110.
[0067] In another example embodiment, at least one sleeve 110.1 is
lacking for at least one leg element of footrest 110. Therefore,
footrest 110.1 directly extends from bridge 108.
[0068] In yet another example embodiment, a single footrest 110 is
present. Such footrest 110 is sufficiently elongated between legs
106 such that the user can place both fees next to each other on
footrest 110. Further, such footrest can extend from sleeve 110.1
or lack sleeve 110.1 and extend from bridge 108 from at least one
point. Moreover, such sleeve can be L-shaped, U-shaped, J-shaped,
A-shaped, and so forth.
[0069] Footrests 110 are configured to move in an arcuate range of
motion. The range of motion is sufficiently extensive to allow for
placing the user sitting on seat 102 from a relatively sitting
defecation posture into at least one squatting defecation posture.
For example, such range can be between about 0 degrees, as coplanar
with legs 106, to about 180 degrees clockwise toward seat 102 and
bridge 116. Another example of such range can be between about 10
degrees, with respect to legs 106, to about 90 degrees with respect
to legs 106. Note that footrests 110 and sleeves 110.1 can move via
pivoting about bridge 108. Also, note that footrests 110, sleeves
110.1, and bridge 108 can pivot about legs 106. Further, note that,
when sleeves 110.1 are lacking, then footrests 110 can move via
pivoting about bridge 108 or move via pivoting with bridge 108
about legs 106. Footrests 110 are lockable at least in a plurality
of preset defecation posture positions within the range of motion.
The presetting can be user set or manufacturer set.
[0070] A pair of locking plates 112 extends from legs 106. Plates
112 are proximal to bridge 108. Plates 112 extend toward legs 118
and face each other. Plates 112 are metallic and flat. Plates 112
are parallel to each other. Note that whether partially or fully,
plates 112 can include plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth. Plates
112 can be hollow, such as via containing a fluid, like a liquid or
air, or full, such as via being a solid. Plates 112 can be
segmented internally and/or externally. Plates 112 can be in fluid
communication with legs 106, bases 124, and/or legs 118. Plates 112
can be wavy, arcuate, projecting toward or away from the ground
surface, projecting toward seat 102 or away from seat 102, any
diagonals thereof, and/or any combination thereof. Plates 112 can
be surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Plates 112
can be fully continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Plates 112 can
be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. Plates
112 can be an assembly with legs 106, such as via a plurality of
telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality
of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with legs 116, such
as via molding or 30 printing. Plates 112 can also be a strip, a
sheet, a tube, and so forth. plates 112 can be an assembly with at
least one of legs 106 and at least one of bases 124, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with at
least one of legs 106 and at least one of bases 124, such as via
molding or 30 printing. Plates 112 can have a cross-section of any
type, such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle,
and so forth. Plates 112 can be shaped in any manner, whether
arcuate and/or acute, such as a triangle, a parallelogram, an
ellipse, a polygon, and so forth. Plates 112 can be fixed or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable, with respect to legs 106,
such as selectively pivoting about legs 106. Plates 112 are
sufficiently rigid/stable to enable locking of footrests 110.
Plates 112 extend below seat 102, in front of seat 102.
[0071] Plates 112 contain a plurality of holes 120 corresponding to
a plurality of defecation postures, with at least one of holes 120
corresponding to a squatting posture. Holes 120 can be of any size,
shape, depth, and so forth. Holes 120 extend fully through plates
112 in any manner. However, in other example embodiments, holes 120
do not fully extend through plates 112.
[0072] A pair of metallic pins 122 is sized for insertion into any
of holes 120. Pins 122 can be of any type, size, shape, manner,
material, and so forth, whether unitary or non-unitary. When pins
122 are inserted into respective holes 120, then footrests 110 are
locked and therefore, relatively stationary/fixed within the range
of movement, as described herein, for defecation. Note that such
pin insertion can be manual or automatic. Also, note that the
ranges of motion for footrests 110 can be identical to or different
from each other in any manner. Additionally, note that holes 120
for each plate 112 can be based on identical defecation postures
for each of the user's feet or different defecation postures for
each of the user's feet. For example, the user's feet can be in
relatively identical defecation positions or different defecation
positions.
[0073] A pair of levers 114 extends from footrests 110 via sleeves
110.1. Levers 114 include a pair of handles 114.1. Levers 114
independently control movement of footrests 110 within the range of
motion. Levers 114 can be operated via pushing or pulling handles
114.1 by the user sitting on seat 102. Note that in example
embodiments where sleeves 110.1 are lacking, then levers 114 can
extend from footrests 110 and/or bridge 108. Levers 114 are between
the ground surface and bases 124. Handles 114.1 are extending away
from seat 102 and from each other.
[0074] Levers 114 are similarly sized, non-linear, metallic, and
elliptically tubular hollow shafts. Levers 114 are sufficiently
rigid/stable to move footrests 110 with the user's feet thereon.
Note that whether partially or fully, levers 114 can be identical
to or different from each other in length, height, width, size,
shape, weight, perimeter, area, volume, material, density,
rigidity, inclination angle, and so forth. Levers 114 can include
plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth. Levers 114 can be hollow, such
as via containing a fluid, like a liquid or air, or full, such as
via being a solid. Levers 114 can be segmented internally and/or
externally. Levers 114 can be in fluid communication with footrests
110. Levers 114 can be wavy, curved, acute, arcuate, projecting
toward or away from each other, projecting toward seat 102 or away
from seat 102, any diagonals thereof, and/or any combination
thereof. Levers 114 can be surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly,
and so forth. Levers 114 can be fully continuous, partially
continuous, perforated in any manner/size/shape, and/or any
combination thereof. Levers 114 can also be oriented in a
converging manner or a diverging manner with respect to each other.
Levers 114 can also be plates, strips, sheets, and so forth. Levers
114 can be fixedly extending or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. Levers 114 can be an
assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. Levers
114 can be an assembly with footrests 110 and/or sleeves 110.1,
such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of
fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or
be unitary with footrests 110 and/or sleeves 110.1, such as via
molding or 30 printing. Levers 114 can be an assembly with
footrests 110, sleeves 110.1, and bridge 108, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with
footrests 110, sleeves 110.1, and bridge 108, such as via molding
or 30 printing. Levers 114 can have cross-sections of any type,
such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so
forth.
[0075] Pins 122 extend through levers 114 into one of holes 120 to
lock footrests 110 and therefore, relatively stationary/fixed
within the range of movement, as described herein. Although levers
114 are configured for user pulling toward seat 102, in other
example embodiments, levers 114 can be configured for user
pulling/pushing/operating in any direction(s) from seat 102 in any
manner.
[0076] Handles 114.1 are similarly sized, linear, rubberized, and
elliptically tubular hollow shafts. Handles 114.1 are mounted on
levers 114. Handles 114.1 are configured for user grasping, such as
via a plurality of finger grooves or a first groove. Note that
whether partially or fully, handles 114.1 can be identical to or
different from each other in length, height, width, size, shape,
weight, perimeter, area, volume, material, density, rigidity,
inclination angle, and so forth. Handles 114.1 can include metal,
plastic, wood, and so forth. Handles 114.1 can be wavy, arcuate,
projecting toward or away from each other, projecting toward seat
102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals thereof, and/or any
combination thereof. Handles 114.1 can be surfaced smoothly,
roughly, ruggedly, and so forth. Handles 114.1 can be fully
continuous, partially continuous, perforated in any
manner/size/shape, and/or any combination thereof. Handles 114.1
can also be oriented in a converging manner or a diverging manner
with respect to each other. Handles 114.1 can also be plates,
strips, sheets, and so forth. Handles 114.1 can be fixedly
extending or rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. Handles 114.1
can be an assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping
elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating
elements, and so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30
printing. Handles 114.1 can be an assembly with levers 114, such as
via a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened
pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary
with levers 114, such as via molding or 30 printing. Handles 114.1
can have cross-sections of any type, such as a parallelogram, a
polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth.
[0077] In some example embodiments, frames 104 are foldable with
respect to bridge 108. For example, frames 104 can be configured
for moving/hinging/pivoting/swinging with respect to bridge 108
toward each other. One of frames 104 folds onto bridge 108. Then,
the other of frames 104 folds onto bridge 108 over the already
folded frame 104. Therefore, when folded, one of frames 104 is
intermediate with respect to bridge 108 and the other frame 104.
Another example of folding includes frames 104 folding with respect
to bridge 108 in a N-manner with frames 104 being vertical
N-elements and bridge 108 being a diagonal N-element. Such
N-folding is via frames 104 moving/hinging/pivoting/swinging with
respect to bridge 108 in different directions. Note that after
unfolding for use, bridge 108 and frames 104 are sufficiently
stable for use, such as via locking, mating, fastening, and so
forth, by the user, as described herein. Note that for any folding,
as described herein, back bridge 118 can be configured for
accommodating such folding, such as via
moving/hinging/pivoting/swinging with respect to one of legs 118 or
be lacking.
[0078] In some example embodiments, at least one of frames 114
includes an element, such as a bridge, a shaft, a strip, a chain,
and so forth. The element positioned within the at least one of
frames 114 such that the at least one of the frames is shaped as a
shape selected from a group consisting of an E-shape, a 0-shape, an
A-shape, a seven-segment 0-shape, and a seven-segment 8 shape. For
example, when the element extends vertically toward the ground
surface from one of bases 124, then one of frames 104 can become
E-shaped. Also for example, when the element spans between one of
legs 106 and one of legs 118, then one of frames 104 can be
A-shaped when the element spans sufficiently above the ground or
0-shaped when the element spans proximal to caps 126. Further for
example, when a first element spans between one of legs 106 and one
of legs 118 intermediate between one of bases 124 and the ground
surface, and a second element spans between the one of legs 106 and
the one of legs 118 proximal to caps 126, then the one of frames
104 takes on a seven-segment 8 shape, like on a conventional
calculator display. Note that caps 126 can also be lacking for such
use with the element.
[0079] The element can be a straight, metallic, and an elliptically
tubular hollow shaft. The element is sufficiently rigid/stable to
provide support to one of bases 124 or one of legs 106 or legs 118.
Note that whether partially or fully, the element is can include
plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth. The element can be a solid
internally. The element can be segmented internally and/or
externally. The element can be in fluid communication with bases
124 and/or legs 106, legs 118. The element can be wavy, arcuate,
projecting toward or away from each other, projecting toward seat
102 or away from seat 102, any diagonals thereof, and/or any
combination thereof. The element can be surfaced smoothly, roughly,
ruggedly, and so forth. The element can be fully continuous,
partially continuous, perforated in any manner/size/shape, and/or
any combination thereof. The element can also be oriented in a
converging manner or a diverging manner with respect to each other.
The element can also be a plate, a strip, a chain, a sheet, and so
forth. The element can be fixed in position or
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable. The element can be an
assembly, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a
plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary, such as via molding or 30 printing. The
element can be an assembly with legs 106, legs 118, and/or bases
124, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality
of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and so forth,
or be unitary with legs 106, legs 118, and/or bases 124, such as
via molding or 30 printing. The element can have cross-sections of
any type, such as a parallelogram, a polygon, an ellipse, a
triangle, and so forth. The element can have cap 126 thereon. The
element can also function without cap 126.
[0080] In some example embodiments, at least one of frames 104
includes a privacy shield for the user to defecate in privacy. The
shield can at least partially span toward the ground surface from
at least one of bases 124. The shield can also at least partially
span from at least one of legs 106 toward at least one of legs 118.
The shield can be selectively detachable and/or selectively
attachable. The shield can fully cover an area between at least one
of legs 106 and at least one of legs 118 underneath at least one of
bases 124. The shield is waterproof. The shield can include cloth,
plastic, metal, wood, rubber, glass, and so forth. The glass can be
a one-way glass for the user to see through the glass, while
remaining private. The shield can include at least one panel. The
shield can include a screen. The shield can include a blind, which
can be selectively raised and/or lowered.
[0081] In one example mode of operation, the user sits on seat 102.
Apparatus 100 is placed over the user onto the ground surface with
the user being between frames 104, while being between bridge 108
and bridge 116. The user places the user's legs onto footrests 110,
while sitting on seat 102. Footrests 110 are locked via pins 122
extending through levers 114 into respective holes 120. Therefore,
footrests 110 are relatively stationary/fixed within the range of
movement in one of the defecation postures. The user removes pins
122. The user grasps handles 114.1, whether simultaneously or
non-simultaneously. The user selectively pulls levers 114 toward
the user and seat 102. Such pulling can be simultaneous or
non-simultaneous. Resultantly, footrests 110 independently pivot
about bridge 108 via sleeves 110.1. Footrests 110 move within the
ranges of motion toward the defecation positions. When a desired
defecation posture is reached, then the user inserts pins 122 into
holes 120 on plates 112 according to the desired position.
Consequently, the user can defecate in the desired position with
the user's feet resting on footrests 110 positioned accordingly.
Such positioning can improve the user's bowel movement, while
providing support via frames 104.
[0082] FIG. 2A shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus in a first preset defecation posture position according
to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are
described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical
and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0083] A first defecation posture position entails the user sitting
on seat 102 with the user's feet resting on footrests 110. Note
that openings 120 on plates 112 are not locked via pins 122.
Therefore, footrests 110 are movable within the ranges of motion.
The user grasps handles 114.1 for pulling toward seat 102. Note
that handles 114.1 are proximal to bases 124.
[0084] FIG. 2B shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus in a second preset defecation posture position according
to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are
described above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical
and/or like components described above and any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0085] A second defecation posture position is different from the
first posture position. The second posture position entails more
squatting by the user than the first posture position. In the
second posture position, the user pulled handles 114.1 toward seat
102 such that handles 114.1 are adjacent to seat 102 and footrests
110 moved about 75-80 degrees in the ranges of motion from the
first posture position to be substantially coplanar with seat
102.
[0086] FIG. 3 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of dependently controllable U-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure. Some elements of
this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters
identify identical and/or like components described above and any
repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted
or simplified in order to avoid complication.
[0087] An apparatus 300 includes bridge 108 spanning between legs
106. A pair of footrests 310, which are similar to footrests 110,
extends from a common sleeve 310.1, which is similar to sleeves
110.1. When lever 114 is operated, such as when handle 114.1 is
pulled toward seat 102, then common sleeve 310.1 allows both
footrests 310 to move concurrently. Also, note that common sleeve
310.1 also allows footrests 310 to be locked concurrently.
Additionally, note that the ranges of motion of footrests 310 can
be relatively identical to or relatively different from each other.
Furthermore, note that lever 114 can be coupled to or extend from
common sleeve 310.1. Moreover, note that common sleeve 310.1 can
pivot about bridge 108 or pivot with bridge 108 about legs 106. In
addition, note that lever 114 controls movement of both footrests
310 within their respective ranges. Also, note that another lever
114 different from lever 114 can be coupled to one of footrests
310, one of sleeves 110.1, and/or common sleeve 310.1. Therefore, a
movement of one lever 114 can influence movement of the other lever
114 and/or both footrests 310 and/or common sleeve 310.1.
Resultantly, one lever 114 moves the other lever 114. Further, note
that footrests 310 can be dependently controlled without sleeve
310.1, such as via directly extending from bridge 108.
[0088] FIG. 4 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a pair of independently controllable L-shaped
footrests according to the present disclosure. Some elements of
this figure are described above. Thus, same reference characters
identify identical and/or like components described above and any
repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted
or simplified in order to avoid complication.
[0089] An apparatus 400 includes a pair of L-shaped footrests 410,
which are similar to footrests 110 and/or footrests 310. Note that
any footrests, as described herein, can be shaped identically or
differently from each other. Therefore, any footrests described
herein can be of an L-shape, a U-shape, a J-shape, a T-shape, a
P-shape, an A-shape, and an F-shape. However, note that such
listing is an example. Other shapes can also be used. Also, note
that a single footrest for both feet can also be used in any
manner, as described herein.
[0090] FIG. 5 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a case depending from the apparatus according to
the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or
like components described above and any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0091] An apparatus 500 includes a case 530. Case 530 has a pair of
loops 528 spaced apart from each other. Case 530 has an inner space
accessible via an opening 532. Loops 528 can be of any type. Only
one loop 528 can also be used. Loops 528 can be unitary or an
assembly with case 530. Loops 528 can include metal, plastic, wood,
cloth, rubber, and so forth. Loops 528 are mounted on one of bases
124. Loops 528 can fastened/coupled/joined in any manner, such as a
hook-and-loop fastener, a male-female fastener, an interlocker, and
so forth. Loops 528 can be configured to allow for sliding or
prevent sliding along one of bases 124. Alternatively, loops 528
can be unitary with one of bases 124. The inner space is
sufficiently large to contain at least a mobile phone and loops 528
are sufficiently durable such that when the phone is within the
inner space, case 530 depends from one of bases 124. Opening 532
can be closable, such as via a zipper, a button, a hook-and-loop
fastener, and so forth. Case 530 can be waterproof. More than one
case 530 can be used.
[0092] FIG. 6 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a hook depending from the apparatus according to
the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or
like components described above and any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0093] An apparatus 600 includes a hook 634 depending from one of
bases 124 via loop 628, which can be of any type. Loop 628 can be
similar to loop 528. Hook 634 can be any type of hook, such as
J-hook, and so forth. Hook 634 can include metal, plastic, wood,
and so forth. Hook 634 is sufficiently durable to allow a bag or an
article of clothing to hang thereon. Hook 634 can be unitary with
or an assembly with loop 628.
[0094] FIG. 7 shows an example embodiment of a defecation posture
apparatus having a handgrip, a light source, and a cushion sleeve
according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure
are described above. Thus, same reference characters identify
identical and/or like components described above and any repetitive
detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or
simplified in order to avoid complication.
[0095] An apparatus 700 includes a gripping strip 736, a light
source 738, and a cushion sleeve 740.
[0096] Strip 736 is rubberized and configured to enhance gripping
by the user, while the user is sitting on seat 102. At least one of
bases 124 can have strip 736 extending thereon. Strip 736 can
include a plurality of finger grooves and/or a fist groove. Strip
736 can be fixed in place or detachable/removable from use
position.
[0097] Source 738 can output light of any type/color in any
direction, such as toward the user and/or seat 102 for reading
and/or safety illumination. Source 738 can include a bulb, such as
an incandescent bulb, a light emitting diode (LED) bulb, a
fluorescent bulb, and so forth. Source 738 can be powered via an
internal battery or mains electricity based source. Alternatively,
the battery is internal to one of bases 124. The mains electricity
based source can be internal to at least one of frames 104. Source
738 outputs light sufficiently bright for the user to be able to
operate apparatus 700 at least partially. Source 738 is waterproof.
Source 738 is fixed in place or removable from use position.
[0098] Sleeve 740 is mounted on bridge 108. Sleeve 740 extends
along area 108.1 between footrests 110. Sleeve 740 is sufficiently
cushioning such that when bridge 108 is proximal to seat 102, then
sleeve 740 prevents bridge 108 from banging into seat 102 and
damaging seat 102, such as via scratching. Sleeve 740 can include
foam, polyurethane, and so forth.
[0099] FIG. 8 shows an example embodiment of a wheeled defecation
posture apparatus having a pair of movable cantilevered members
uniquely associated with a pair of footrests according to the
present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, same reference characters identify identical and/or
like components described above and any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0100] An apparatus 800 includes a first cantilevered member 842, a
second cantilevered member 844, a pair of wheels 846, and a ratchet
plate 848.
[0101] Members 842, 844 extend toward each other between legs 106.
Members 842, 844 are operable independent of each other. Members
842, 844 are opposing bridge 116 when extending toward each other.
Members 842, 844 are straight, metallic, and elliptically tubular
hollow shafts. Members 842, 844 are parallel to bridge 116. Note
that whether partially or fully, members 842, 844 can include
plastic, wood, rubber, and so forth. Members 842, 844 can be
hollow, such as via containing a fluid, like a liquid or air, or
full, such as via being a solid. Members 842, 844 can be segmented
internally and/or externally. Members 842, 844 can be in fluid
communication with legs 106, bases 124, and/or legs 118. Members
842, 844 can be wavy, arcuate, projecting toward or away from the
ground surface, projecting toward seat 102 or away from seat 102,
any diagonals thereof, and/or any combination thereof. Members 842,
844 can be surfaced smoothly, roughly, ruggedly, and so forth.
Members 842, 844 can be fully continuous, partially continuous,
perforated in any manner/size/shape, and/or any combination
thereof. Members 842, 844 can be an assembly, such as via a
plurality of telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces,
a plurality of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary, such
as via molding or 30 printing. Members 842, 844 can be an assembly
with at least one of bases 124, such as via a plurality of
telescoping elements, a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality
of mating elements, and so forth, or be unitary with at least one
of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing. Members 842, 844
can also be a plate, a strip, a sheet, and so forth. Members 842,
844 can be an assembly with at least one of legs 106 and at least
one of bases 124, such as via a plurality of telescoping elements,
a plurality of fastened pieces, a plurality of mating elements, and
so forth, or be unitary with at least one of legs 106 and at least
one of bases 124, such as via molding or 30 printing. Members 842,
844 can have a cross-section of any type, such as a parallelogram,
a polygon, an ellipse, a triangle, and so forth. Members 842, 844
are sufficiently rigid/stable to provide leg support to the user,
such as a sick, disabled, and/or frail person. At least at one
point, members 842, 844 span below seat 102, in front of seat 102
when extending toward each other. At least at one point, members
842, 844 are closer to the ground surface than seat 102 when
extending toward each other. Therefore, members 842, 844 are closer
to the ground surface than seat 102 when frames 104 are standing on
the ground surface with seat 102 between frames 104. The user can
seat on seat 102 between members 842, 844 and bridge 116, while
being between frames 104.
[0102] Members 842, 844 can be
rotatable/movable/collapsible/foldable, in an identical or
different manner, to avoid walk interference between frames 104
from legs 106 to bridge 116. Such action can take place according
to a pair of paths 850. Resultantly, via paths 850, members 842,
844 rotate/move/collapse/fold away from seat 102, such as to be
parallel with bases 124. Note that lever 114 and/or handle 114.1
can have a different shape to facilitate such avoidance of walk
interference. In another example embodiment, members 842, 844
rotate/move/collapse/fold toward seat 102, such as to be parallel
with bases 124, underneath bases 124. Similarly, lever 114 and/or
handle 114.1 can have a different shape to facilitate such
avoidance of walk interference. In yet another example embodiment,
members 842, 844 rotate/move/collapse/fold upward, away from the
ground surface, toward legs 106, such as to be parallel with legs
106. Similarly, lever 114 and/or handle 114.1 can have a different
shape to facilitate such avoidance of walk interference. Note that
in all of such embodiments, footrests 110 are also positioned to
avoid walk interference, whether manually or via such action. Note
that, in some example embodiments, sleeves 110.1 are configured not
to detach from members 842, 844, such as via sliding off from
members 842, 844, however, in other example embodiments, members
842, 844 can be selectively detachable and securely re-attachable.
Further, note that members 842, 844 can operate as bridge 108, as
described herein. For example, footrests 110 can pivot about
members 842, 844 via sleeves 110.1 as pulled via levers 114. Also
for example, footrests 110 can pivot with members 842, 844 about
legs 106. Further, for example, levers 114 can extend from members
842, 844, whether inclusive or exclusive of extending from sleeves
110.1.
[0103] Wheels 846 are present on legs 118. Wheels 846 can be
inflatable, plastic, metallic, wooden, rubberized, and so forth.
Wheels 846 allow apparatus 800 to function as a walker, at least
for a sick, frail, disabled, injured, and/or elderly person.
Therefore, when walking via apparatus 800, then members 842, 844
are rotated/moved/collapsed/folded to avoid walk interference for
the user walking into apparatus 800 toward bridge 116 to be between
frames 104 and grasping bases 104. If during walking with apparatus
800, the user desires to sit on seat 102 for defecation, then the
user sits on seat 102 and then operates members 842, 844 from their
rotated/moved/collapsed/folded positions to place members 842, 844
into positions as shown in FIG. 8.
[0104] Plates 848 include a plurality of toothed positions arranged
according the defecation postures, as described herein. The toothed
positions can be of any type. Levers 114 includes a pair of pawls
configured for operation with plate 848. The pawls can include
plastic, metal, wood, and so forth. The pawls can be of any type.
Footrests 110 are lockable at the toothed positions via the pawls
allowing unidirectional movement toward seat 102. The pawls are
releasable from the toothed positions in any manner, such as via
manual pulling toward seat 102, operation of levers 114, and so
forth. Such release functionality can be identical for both of the
pawls or different for both of the pawls. The pawl operates based
on operation of levers 114, as pulled via handles 114.1. In another
example embodiment, one of legs 106 has a single ratchet plate 848
and the other of legs 106 has a single holed plate 112. In yet
another example embodiment, members 842, 844 are associated with
plates 112, as described herein. In yet still another example
embodiment, at least one of plates 848 is holed, like plate 112. In
yet further example embodiment, at least one of plates 112 is
ratcheted, like plate 848.
[0105] FIG. 9A shows a top view of an example embodiment of an
apparatus comprising a foot support positioned in a first position
according to the present disclosure. FIG. 9B shows a top view of an
example embodiment of an apparatus comprising a foot support
positioned in a second position according to the present
disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus,
any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be
omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication.
[0106] A U-shaped walker 900 comprises a pair of side frames 902
and a bridge 904 spanning therebetween. Each of the side frames 902
comprises a hand rail 906, as described herein. Each of the side
frames 902 also comprises a pair of legs, as described herein. A
foot support 908 is pivotally coupled to at least one of such legs.
In FIG. 9A, the foot support 908 is in a first position, which is a
retracted position, such as for use during walking with the walker
900. The hand rail 906 substantially overlays the foot support 908.
When the hand rail 906 is opaque/non-perforated, then the foot
support 908 is not visible from above the hand rail 906. However,
when the hand rail 906 is transparent/perforated, then the foot
support 908 is visible from above the hand rail 906. Further, the
foot support 908 is visible in the first position when the foot
support 908 laterally protrudes beyond the hand rail 906 on at
least one side of the hand rail 906. In FIG. 9B, the foot support
908 is in a second position, which is a deployed position, such as
for use during defecation with the walker 900 being in toilet seat
proximity.
[0107] FIG. 10A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining a rectangular opening according to the
present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description thereof will
hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication. A leg 1000A, as described herein, defines an opening
1002A, such as a slot. The opening 1002A is rectangular, but can
shaped differently, such as an oval, an arch, V-shape, and so
forth.
[0108] FIG. 10B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining an L-shaped opening according to the
present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description thereof will
hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication. A leg 1000B, as described herein, defines an opening
1002B, such as a slot. The opening 1002B is L-shaped, as defined
via a travel portion 1004B and a rest portion 1006B, which
corresponds to a fixed position of the footrest 908.
[0109] FIG. 10C shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg defining a U-shaped opening according to the present
disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus,
any repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be
omitted or simplified in order to avoid complication. A leg 1000C,
as described herein, defines an opening 1002C, such as a slot. The
opening 1002C is U-shaped, as defined via a travel portion 1004C
and a plurality of rest portions 1006C, which correspond to a
plurality of fixed positions of the footrest 908.
[0110] FIG. 11 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a foot
support coupled to a side frame leg via a side frame leg opening
according to the present disclosure. FIG. 12 shows a top view of an
example embodiment of a foot support according to the present
disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus,
same reference characters identify identical and/or like components
described above and any repetitive detailed description thereof
will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0111] A foot support 1100 comprises a bridge 1102, a footrest
1104, a leg 1106, a base 1108, and a bar/rod/shaft 1110, any one of
which can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass and
rubber, or any combinations thereof. The leg 1000B includes the
L-shaped opening 1002B, as defined via the travel portion 1004B and
the rest portion 1006B. The leg 1008 further defines an interior
chamber 1008B having a ceiling 10108 and a floor 1012B, whether
unitary and/or assembled with the leg 1000B. Alternatively, the
interior chamber 1008B is part of a segment within the leg 1000B
which rotates with respect to the leg 1000B, such as via ball
bearings. In other embodiments, at least one of the bridge 1102,
the footrest 1104, the leg 1106, and the base 1108 is
telescopic.
[0112] The bar/rod/shaft 1110 is housed within the interior chamber
1008B between the ceiling 10108 and the floor 1012B such that the
bar/rod/shaft 1110 can rotate about a vertical axis. For example,
the bar/rod/shaft 1110 can be mounted onto the ceiling 10108 and
the floor 1012B and rotate about a vertical axis with respect to
the ceiling 10108 and the floor 1012B. The bar/rod/shaft 1110 is
coupled to the bridge 1102 and positioned within the leg 1000B
longitudinally and parallel to the leg 1106 such that the
bar/rod/shaft 1110 is perpendicular to the bridge 1102, such as in
a T-shaped relationship, as described further below. The
bar/rod/shaft 1110 can be coupled to the bridge 1102 such that the
bridge 1102 is unable to rotate or pivot about the bar/rod/shaft
1110 i.e. fixed. Such coupling can be via an adhesive, clamping,
locking, fastening, mating, interlocking, or via unitary assembly.
However, in other embodiments, the bar/rod/shaft 1110 can be
coupled to the bridge 1102 such that the bridge 1102 is able to
rotate or pivot about the bar/rod/shaft 1110. Such coupling can be
via mounting, fastening or mating.
[0113] The bridge 1102 and the footrest 1104 can be coupled such
that the footrest 1104 is unable to rotate or pivot about the
bridge 1102 i.e. fixed. Such coupling can be via an adhesive,
clamping, locking, fastening, mating, interlocking, or via unitary
assembly. However, in other embodiments, the footrest 1104 can be
coupled to the bridge 1102 such that the footrest 1104 is able to
rotate or pivot about the bridge 1102, whether laterally, upwardly
or downwardly. Such coupling can be via mounting, fastening or
mating. At least one of the bridge 1102 and the footrest 1104 can
perforated. The footrest 1104 is cuboid, but can be of any shape,
such an inverse pyramid, a hemisphere, and so forth. The footrest
1104 can have a rugged surface, such as to increase foot
friction.
[0114] The footrest 1104 and the leg 1106 can be coupled such that
the footrest 1104 is unable to rotate or pivot about the leg 1106
i.e. fixed. Such coupling can be via an adhesive, clamping,
locking, fastening, mating, interlocking, or via unitary assembly.
However, in other embodiments, the footrest 1104 can be coupled to
the leg 1106 such that the footrest 1104 is able to rotate or pivot
about the leg 1106, whether laterally, upwardly or downwardly. Such
coupling can be via mounting, fastening or mating. At least one of
the leg 1106 and the footrest 1104 can perforated.
[0115] The leg 1106 and the base 1108 can be coupled such that the
leg 1106 is unable to rotate or pivot about the base 1108 i.e.
fixed. Such coupling can be via an adhesive, clamping, locking,
fastening, mating, interlocking, or via unitary assembly. However,
in other embodiments, the leg 1106 can be coupled to the base 1108
such that the leg 1106 is able to rotate or pivot about the base
1108, whether laterally, upwardly or downwardly. Such coupling can
be via mounting, fastening or mating. At least one of the leg 1106
and the base 1108 can perforated. The base 1108 is cuboid, but can
be of any shape, such a pyramid, a hemisphere, and so forth. The
base 1108 can have a rugged bottom surface, such as to increase
ground friction.
[0116] In one mode of operation, in accordance with FIG. 9A and
FIG. 9B, the bar/rod/shaft 1110 rotates about the vertical axis
within the chamber 1008B, such as via manual force application onto
at least one of the bridge 1102, the footrest 1104, the leg 1106,
and the base 1108. Such rotation causes the bridge 1102 to travel
along the travel portion 1004B. Such travel moves the footrest 1104
between the first position, such as the retracted position, and the
second position, such as the deployed position, as described
herein. Upon traveling along the travel portion 1004B and reaching
at least one of the first position and the second position, the
bridge 1102 drops into the rest portion 1006B such that the bridge
1102 is unable to travel further unless lifted. When desired, the
bridge 1102 can be lifted from the rest portion 1006B for further
travel along the travel portion 1004B.
[0117] In other embodiments, the bar/rod/shaft 1110 is rotated
about the vertical axis within the chamber 1008B via a motor, such
as an electric motor, housed within the leg 1000B or in other
portion of the walker 900. Such motor can be powered via a power
source, such as a rechargeable battery housed within the leg 1000B
or in other portion of the walker 900. The motor can be activated
via a user interface, such as a button, on the walker 900.
Alternatively, the motor can be activated via a mobile phone or a
tablet computer in proximity of the walker 900, such as via
short-range network communication, for instance a Bluetooth
protocol and/or an infrared protocol.
[0118] FIG. 13A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg having an inverted U-shape footrest coupled thereto
according to the present invention. Some elements of this figure
are described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description
thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0119] A side frame leg 1300A is coupled to a hinge 1302A, which
can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and
rubber, or any combinations thereof. Such coupling can be via
fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or
other securing technologies. An inverted U-shape footrest 1304A,
which can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and
rubber, or any combinations thereof, is defined via a base 1306A
and a pair of vertical members 1308A extending therefrom. The base
1306A and at least one member of the pair of vertical members 1308A
can be unitary and/or be an assembly, such as via fastening,
clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or other
securing technologies. The hinge 1302A is coupled to the footrest
1304A via fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating,
interlocking, or other securing technologies. Resultantly, in
accordance with FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the footrest 1304A moves
between the first position, such as the retracted position, and the
second position, such as the deployed position, as described
herein. Note that, in each of the positions, the footrest 1304A can
be locked via a J-hook hooking onto an O-shaped eyelet. The J-hook
can be coupled, such as via fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting,
mating, interlocking, or other securing technologies, to the
footrest 1304A and the eyelet can be coupled, such as via
fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or
other securing technologies, to the leg 1300A, or vice versa. Note
that the footrest 1304A can also be O-shaped or D-shaped.
[0120] FIG. 13B shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
side frame leg having an upright U-shape footrest coupled thereto
according to the present invention. Some elements of this figure
are described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description
thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0121] A side frame leg 1300B is coupled to a hinge 1302B, which
can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and
rubber, or any combinations thereof. Such coupling can be via
fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or
other securing technologies. An upright U-shape footrest 1304B,
which can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and
rubber, or any combinations thereof, is defined via a base 1306B
and a pair of vertical members 1308B extending therefrom. The base
1306B and at least one member of the pair of vertical members 1308B
can be unitary and/or be an assembly, such as via fastening,
clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or other
securing technologies. The hinge 1302B is coupled to the footrest
1304B via fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating,
interlocking, or other securing technologies. Resultantly, in
accordance with FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the footrest 1304B moves
between the first position, such as the retracted position, and the
second position, such as the deployed position, as described
herein. Note that, in each of the positions, the footrest 1304B can
be locked via a J-hook hooking onto an O-shaped eyelet. The J-hook
can be coupled, such as via fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting,
mating, interlocking, or other securing technologies, to the
footrest 1304B and the eyelet can be coupled, such as via
fastening, clamping, adhering, bolting, mating, interlocking, or
other securing technologies, to the leg 1300B, or vice versa. Note
that the footrest 1304B can also be O-shaped or D-shaped. Further,
note that the hinge 1302B is positioned lower on the leg 1300B than
the hinge 1302A on the leg 1300A. Such positioning can be
stationary, such as to enable a foot to fit within the footrest
1308B properly when dealing with elderly/frail/sick individuals,
but higher when dealing with individuals, such as under 5 feet
tall. Alternatively, the hinge 1302A or the hinge 1302B can be
configured to travel vertically along a height of the leg 1300A or
the leg 1300B, such as along a path, similar to what is disclosed
with respect to FIGS. 10A-100.
[0122] FIG. 14 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a side
frame leg having a footrest coupled thereto via a collar according
to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are
described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description thereof
will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0123] An assembly 1400 comprises a circular collar 1402 extending
around a side frame leg 1408. The collar 1402 can comprise at least
one of metal, plastic, wood, glass and rubber, or any combinations
thereof. The collar 1402 is coupled to the bridge 1102 such that
the collar 1402 is perpendicular to the bridge 1102, such as in a
T-shaped relationship, as described herein. The collar 1402 can be
coupled to the bridge 1102 such that the bridge 1102 is unable to
rotate or pivot about the collar 1402 i.e. fixed. Such coupling can
be via an adhesive, clamping, locking, fastening, mating,
interlocking, or via unitary assembly. However, in other
embodiments, the collar 1402 can be coupled to the bridge 1102 such
that the bridge 1102 is able to rotate or pivot about the collar
1402. Such coupling can be via mounting, fastening or mating.
[0124] The assembly 1400 further comprises a lower ledge 1404 and
an upper ledge 1406, with the collar 1402 positioned therebetween.
At least one of the lower ledge 104 and the upper ledge 1406
comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass and rubber, or
any combinations thereof. Such configuration supports the collar
1404, keeping the collar 1404 raised along a height of the leg
1408, while effectively preventing the collar 1404 from sliding
upward along the height of the leg 1408. Note that at least one of
the lower ledge 1404 and the upper ledge 1406 can be fully
continuous/circular around the leg 1408 or be segmented along a
perimeter of the leg 1408. Alternatively, the leg 1408 comprises a
plurality of hemispherical protrusions/bumps extending
circumferentially around the leg 1408 immediately below the collar
1402 and optionally above the collar 1402. Such configuration
supports the collar 1404, keeping the collar 1404 raised along a
height of the leg 1408, while effectively preventing the collar
1404 from sliding upward along the height of the leg 1408.
[0125] In one mode of operation, in accordance with FIG. 9A and
FIG. 9B, the collar is rotated about the leg 1408 such that the
footrest 1104 moves between the first position, such as the
retracted position, and the second position, such as the deployed
position, as described herein.
[0126] FIG. 15 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
wheeled footrest according to the present disclosure. Some elements
of this figure are described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication. An assembly 1500 comprises a footrest
leg 1502 and a wheel 1504 operably coupled thereto, such as via a
shaft/axle/pin. Note that more than one wheel 1504 can be used.
Further, note that the wheel 1504 can be configured to swivel 360
degrees about the footrest leg 1502. The wheel 1504 can comprise
rubber, plastic, metal, wood, glass or any combinations
thereof.
[0127] FIG. 16 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
footrest according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this
figure are described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed
description thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in
order to avoid complication.
[0128] As described with reference to FIG. 11, the foot support
1100 comprises the bridge 1102, the footrest 1104, the leg 1106,
the base 1108, and the bar/rod/shaft 1110, any one of which can
comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, and rubber, or any
combinations thereof.
[0129] FIG. 17 shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
collar supported via a pin extending through a side frame leg
according to the present disclosure. Some elements of this figure
are described above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description
thereof will hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0130] An assembly 1700 comprises a pin 1702, a circular collar
1704, and a side frame leg 1706. The pin 1702 can comprise at least
one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and rubber, or any combinations
thereof. The pin 1702 is I-shaped, but can be S-shaped, Z-shaped,
N-shaped, or J-shaped in other embodiments. The pin 1702 extends
through the side frame leg 1706 and protrudes out of the side frame
leg 1702 on both sides. The pin 1702 supports the collar 1704 as
the collar 1704 rests on the side frame leg 1706 and rotates
thereabout. Note that more than one pin 1702 can be used, such as
in an X-configuration or H-configuration.
[0131] FIG. 18A shows a side view of an example embodiment of a
collar having an upper inner wall and a lower inner wall according
to the present disclosure. FIG. 18B shows a top view of an example
embodiment of a collar having an upper inner wall according to the
present disclosure. FIG. 18C shows a top view of an example
embodiment of a collar having a lower inner wall according to the
present disclosure. Some elements of this figure are described
above. Thus, any repetitive detailed description thereof will
hereinafter be omitted or simplified in order to avoid
complication.
[0132] An assembly 1800 comprises a circular collar 1802 having an
upper inner wall 1804, which can be circular, and a lower inner
wall 1806, which can be circular, perpendicularly extending from an
inner edge of the collar 1802 in opposite directions, enclosing a
central opening of the collar 1802 and creating a central collar
channel thereby. Such configuration allows the collar 1802 to be
used in conjunction with the opening 1002A, as shown in FIG. 10A.
More particularly, the assembly 1800 is operably coupled to the leg
1000A such that the upper wall 1804 and the lower wall 1806 are
positioned within the leg 1000A and the collar 1802 protrudes out
of the opening 1002A to which the bridge 1102 is coupled, as
described herein. At least one of the wall 1804 and the wall 1806
can comprise at least one of metal, plastic, wood, glass, and
rubber, or any combinations thereof. The wall 1804 and the wall
1806 can be identically sized or differently sized.
[0133] FIG. 19A shows a first perspective view of an example
embodiment of a walking frame according to the present disclosure.
FIG. 19B shows a second perspective view of an example embodiment
of a walking frame according to the present disclosure. FIG. 20
shows a top view of an example embodiment of a walking frame
according to the present disclosure. FIG. 21 shows a front view of
an example embodiment of a walking frame according to the present
disclosure. FIG. 22 shows a back view of an example embodiment of a
walking frame according to the present disclosure. FIG. 23 shows a
first profile view of an example embodiment of a walking frame
according to the present disclosure. FIG. 24 shows a second profile
view of an example embodiment of a walking frame according to the
present disclosure. FIG. 25 shows an exploded view of an example
embodiment of a walking frame according to the present disclosure.
Some elements of this figure are described above. Thus, any
repetitive detailed description thereof will hereinafter be omitted
or simplified in order to avoid complication.
[0134] A walking frame 1900 includes a pair of side portions 1902
and a first bridge 1916 spanning between the side portions 1902.
Resultantly, the frame 1900 is U-shaped, as viewed from above the
frame 1900. Note that other walking frame shapes are possible, such
as a C-shape, a V-shape, or another shape, such as described
herein. Also, note that such structure can allow for pivoting, such
as laterally, of at least one of the side portions 1902 with
respect to the bridge 1916, such as for folding the frame 1900.
[0135] Each of the side portions 1902 includes a pair of legs 1904,
a pair of elbows 1906 extending from the legs 1904, and a second
bridge 1908 spanning between the elbows 1906. Resultantly, each of
the side portions 1902 is U-shaped, as viewed from a profile view
of the each of the side portions 1902. However, note that other
side portion shapes are possible, such as a C-shape, a V-shape, or
another shape, such as described herein. At least one of the legs
1904 and at least one of the elbows 1906 are assembled to each
other via a coupling method, such as fastening, threading, mating,
interlocking, magnetizing, adhering, nesting, clamping, or others.
However, note that a unitary configuration is also possible, such
as at least one of the legs 1904 and at least one of the elbows
1906 being unitary, such as one piece. Similarly, the bridge 1908
and at least one of the elbows 1906 are assembled to each other via
a coupling method, such as fastening, threading, mating,
interlocking, magnetizing, adhering, nesting, clamping, or others.
However, note that a unitary configuration is also possible, such
as the bridge 1908 and at least one of the elbows 1906 being
unitary, such as one piece. Note that how at least one of the legs
1904 and at least one of the elbows 1906 are assembly/unitary
structured can be identical to or different from how the bridge
1908 and at least one of the elbows 1906 is assembly/unitary
structured. Also, note that the legs 1904 can be coupled to the
elbows 1906 in coupling ways identical to or different from each
other. For example, one of the legs 1904 can be coupled to one of
the elbows 1906 via fastening, whereas another one of the legs 1904
can be coupled to another one of the elbows 1906 via mating.
Likewise, note that the bridge 1908 can be coupled to the elbows
1906 in coupling ways identical to or different from each other.
For example, at one end, the bridge 1908 can be coupled to one of
the elbows 1906 via fastening, whereas at the other end, the bridge
1908 can be coupled to another one of the elbows 1906 via mating.
Further, note that the legs 1906 can be coupled to the bridge 1908
in other ways, such as without at least one of the elbows 1906,
such as via fastening or mating.
[0136] At least one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows
1906, or the bridge 1908 can include metal, plastic, wood, rubber,
glass, or other materials, whether uniformly or varying, whether in
whole or in part. At least one of the legs 1904, at least one of
the elbows 1906, or the bridge 1908 can be opaque, transparent, or
translucent, whether in whole or in part, whether uniform or
varying. At least one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows
1906, or the bridge 1908 can be solid or hollow internally, whether
in whole or in part, whether uniformly or varying. For example, at
least one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows 1906, or the
bridge 1908 can be tubular. At least one of the legs 1904, at least
one of the elbows 1906, or the bridge 1908 can be solid or
perforated, in whole or in part, whether uniformly or varying. At
least one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows 1906, or the
bridge 1908 can be of any cross-sectional shape, in whole or in
part, whether uniformly or varying, such as a circle, an oval, a
triangle, a square, a pentagon, or another polygon, or other
shapes, whether open, such as a C-shape, or closed, such as an
O-shape. At least one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows
1906, or the bridge 1908 can include an internal rigid lattice or a
rigid mesh for additional reinforcement/support. At least one of
the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows 1906, or the bridge 1908
can taper in any direction, whether in whole or in part. At least
one of the legs 1904, at least one of the elbows 1906, or the
bridge 1908 can be adjustable longitudinally, such as via
telescoping.
[0137] Each of the legs 1904 includes an end 1904A, which can be
open or closed, which can be of any cross-sectional shape, as
described herein. At least one of the ends 1904A is covered with a
cap 1914 mounted thereon. For example, the cap 1914 can be plastic,
rubber, wood, or some other material. Alternatively or
additionally, at least one of the ends 1904A is not covered with
the cap 1914. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the
ends 1904A is wheeled, such as with a rubberized circular wheel
operably coupled thereto, such as a caster wheel, which can be
driven by a motor positioned within or coupled to at least one of
the side portions 1902.
[0138] The side portions 1902 can be dimensioned to be identical to
each other, such as symmetrical to each other. However, in other
embodiments, the side portions 1902 are dimensions to be
non-identical to each other, such as asymmetrical to each
other.
[0139] Each of the legs 1904, between which the bridge 1916 spans,
defines a first opening 1910 and a second opening 1912. The opening
1910 faces the other leg 1904 of the same side portion 1902. The
opening 1912 faces the other leg 1904 of the opposing side portion
1902. The opening 1910 and the opening 1912 can be of any shape,
such as a circular, or size, such as 1 centimeter (cm) in diameter.
The opening 1910 and the opening 1912 can be identical to or
different from each other in shape or size. At least one of the
opening 1910 and the opening 1912 can be threaded.
[0140] The bridge 1916 is a rectilinear bar or a rod. However, in
other embodiments, the bridge 1916 is non-rectilinear, such as
sinusoidal, wavy, arcuate, zigzag, or another pattern, whether
upward, downward, inward, or outward. The bridge 1916 can include
metal, plastic, wood, rubber, glass, or other materials, whether
uniformly or varying, whether in whole or in part. The bridge 1916
can be opaque, transparent, or translucent, whether in whole or in
part, whether uniform or varying. The bridge 1916 can be solid or
hollow internally, whether in whole or in part, whether uniformly
or varying. For example, the bridge 1916 can be tubular. The bridge
1916 can be solid or perforated, in whole or in part, whether
uniformly or varying. The bridge 1916 can be of any cross-sectional
shape, in whole or in part, whether uniformly or varying, such as a
circle, an oval, a triangle, a square, a pentagon, or another
polygon, or other shapes, whether open, such as a C-shape, or
closed, such as an O-shape. The bridge 1916 can include an internal
rigid lattice or a rigid mesh for additional reinforcement/support.
The bridge 1916 includes a pair of ends 1916A, 1916B, which can be
open or closed, which can be of any cross-sectional shape, as
described herein. The ends 1916A, 1916B can be identical to or
different from each other in size, shape, structure, or another
aspect. The bridge 1916 can taper in any direction, whether toward
the end 1916A or the end 19168, whether in whole or in part. At
least one of the ends 1916A, 1916B can be threaded.
[0141] The frame 1900 includes a pair of collars 1918 extending
around the legs 1904, between which the bridge 1916 spans. At least
one of the collars 1918 includes a ring-shaped body 1918A defining
an inner channel 1918D therethrough. The body 1918A is unitary,
such as one piece, but can be an assembly, such as a clamshell
configuration defined via pair of arcuate portions, such as
C-shaped, pivotally coupled to each other, such as via a hinge or a
bar, on one end and coupled, such as via interlocking or mating, to
each other on another end. The body 1918A defines a first sidewall
opening 1918B therethrough and a second sidewall opening 1918C
therethrough such that the first opening 1918B and the second
opening 1918C are in fluid communication with the channel 1918D.
The opening 1918B and the opening 1918C can be of any shape, such
as a circular, or size, such as 1 centimeter (cm) in diameter. The
opening 1918B and the opening 1918C can be identical to or
different from each other in shape or size. The channel 1918D is
uniform in shape, but can vary in shape, such as taper such that
the collar 1918 can become stationary along at least one of the
legs 1904. At least one of the collars 1918 can include metal,
plastic, wood, rubber, glass, or other materials, whether uniformly
or varying, whether in whole or in part. At least one of the
collars 1918 can be opaque, transparent, or translucent, whether in
whole or in part, whether uniform or varying. At least one of the
collars 1918 can be solid or hollow internally, whether in whole or
in part, whether uniformly or varying. At least one of the channel
1918, the opening 1918B, and the opening 1918C can be threaded. At
least one of the collars 1918 can be solid or perforated, in whole
or in part, whether uniformly or varying. The collars 1918 can be
identical to or different from each other in shape, size,
structure, weight, material, or another aspect. In other
embodiments, at least one of the collars 1918 is lacking.
[0142] The frame 1900 includes a pair of support ledges 1920
configured for insertion into the openings 1912 such that the
ledges 1920 are able to support the collars 1918. At least one of
the ledges 1920 is threaded into at least one of the openings 1912.
However, note that other ways of coupling are possible, such as
mating, interlocking, adhering, or magnetizing. Also, note that a
unitary configuration is possible as well. At least one of the
ledges 1920 is a shaft, which is rectilinear, but can be shaped
differently, such as an arc, whether upward, downward, inward or
outward facing. Note that at least one of the ledges 1920 is
unitary, such as one piece, but can be an assembly, such as via
interlocking or mating. At least one of the ledges 1920 can include
metal, plastic, wood, rubber, glass, or other materials, whether
uniformly or varying, whether in whole or in part. At least one of
the ledges 1920 can be opaque, transparent, or translucent, whether
in whole or in part, whether uniform or varying. At least one of
the ledges 1920 can be solid or hollow internally, whether in whole
or in part, whether uniformly or varying. For example, at least one
of the ledges 1920 can be tubular. At least one of the ledges 1920
can be solid or perforated, in whole or in part, whether uniformly
or varying. At least one of the ledges 1920 can be of any
cross-sectional shape, in whole or in part, whether uniformly or
varying, such as a circle, an oval, a triangle, a square, a
pentagon, or another polygon, or other shapes, whether open, such
as a C-shape, or closed, such as an O-shape. At least one of the
ledges 1920 can include an internal rigid lattice or a rigid mesh
for additional reinforcement/support. At least one of the ledges
1920 can taper in any direction, whether in whole or in part. In
other embodiments, at least one of the ledges 1920 is lacking.
[0143] The frame 1900 includes a pair of locking pins 1922
configured to secure the collars 1918 to the legs 1904. At least
one of the pins 1922 includes a shaft 1922A, a wedge-shaped plunger
1922B extending within the shaft 1922A, and a pulling mechanism
1922C, which includes a loop for manual pulling. The shaft 1922A
contains a spring, such as a coil spring or a flat spring, which
enables the plunger 1922B be deployed and un-deployed. When the
plunger 1922B is deployed, the plunger 1922B extends out of the
shaft 1922A. However, when the plunger 1922B is non-deployed, the
plunger 1922B is substantially positioned within the shaft 1922A
such that the shaft 1922A has a relatively uniform outer surface
for insertion into an opening. The mechanism 1922C controls
deployment of the plunger 1922B. For example, via pulling the loop
manually, the spring is compressed and the plunger 1922B retracts
into the shaft 1922A such that the shaft 1922A can easily inserted
into and removed from the opening 1918B. However, when the spring
is expanded, the plunger 1922B deploys out of the shaft 1922A such
that the shaft 1922A cannot be easily inserted into or removed from
the opening 1918B. For example, at least one of the pins 1922 can
include or be based at least in part on a pin described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,872,039, which is herein fully incorporated by reference
for all purposes.
[0144] In one method of operation, the side portions 1902 are
coupled to each other such that the bridge 1916 spans therebetween
and a U-shape, as seen from above, is formed. Such coupling occurs
via inserting the legs 1904, between which the bridge 1916 spans,
into the channels 1918D until the openings 1910 and the openings
1918B align for fluid communication therebetween. The ledges 1920
are then inserted into the openings 1912 to support toe the collars
1918. The pins 1922 are inserted into the openings 1918B and the
openings 1910 until the plungers 1922B are spring-deployed, which
can be within the legs 1904 or fully through and outside of the
legs 1904, such that the collars 1918 are secured to the legs 1904.
The bridge 1916 is then coupled to the collars 1918 via the
openings 1918C, such as via threading, interlocking, or mating.
Alternatively or additionally, the bridge 1916 defines an opening
or a set of openings through which the shafts 1922A extend and then
the plungers 1922B spring-deploy. For example, in such
configurations, the shafts 1922A extend through the openings 1918B,
the openings 1910, and the opening(s) of the bridge 1916, and
potentially exit the legs 1904, with the plungers 1922B
spring-deploying externally.
[0145] The frame 1900 includes a third bridge 1924 extending
between the side portions 1902, opposite from the bridge 1916,
which creates a closed-shape thereby, such as via closing the
U-shape, as viewed from above the frame 1900. The bridge 1924
includes a body 1926 with a pair of U-shaped or C-shaped open ends
1928 defined via a pair of jaw portions 1930, 1932. The body 1926
includes a top flat surface, but other types of surfaces are
possible, such as rugged or non-flat. The body 1926 in unitary,
such as one piece, but the body 1926 can be assembled via a
coupling method, such as fastening, threading, mating,
interlocking, magnetizing, adhering, nesting, clamping, or others.
The body 1926 can include metal, plastic, wood, rubber, glass, or
other materials, whether uniformly or varying, whether in whole or
in part. The body 1926 can be opaque, transparent, or translucent,
whether in whole or in part, whether uniform or varying. The body
1926 can be solid or hollow internally, whether in whole or in
part, whether uniformly or varying. For example, the body 1926 can
be tubular. The body 1926 can be solid or perforated, in whole or
in part, whether uniformly or varying. The body 1926 can be of any
cross-sectional shape, in whole or in part, whether uniformly or
varying, such as a circle, an oval, a triangle, a square, a
pentagon, or another polygon, or other shapes, whether open, such
as a C-shape, or closed, such as an O-shape. The body 1926 can
include an internal rigid lattice or a rigid mesh for additional
reinforcement/support. The body 1926 can taper in any direction,
along any plane, whether in whole or in part. The body 1926 is
fixed in shape. However, in some embodiments, the body 1926 can be
adjustable, such as laterally or longitudinally, such as via
mating, nesting, fastening, interlocking, magnetizing, adhering, or
other ways. Note that the frame 1900 can be used in ways where the
bridge 1916 is a front bridge and the bridge 1924 is a back bridge.
However, when used in other ways, the bridge 1916 can be a back
bridge and the bridge 1924 is a front bridge.
[0146] The open ends 1928 can be identical to or different from
each other in shape or size. For example, one of the ends 1928 can
be U-shaped and another of the ends 1928 can be C-shaped. Note that
other types of open ends are possible, such as a V-shape or an
E-shape. Further, note that the openings of the ends 1928 are fixed
in shape and size. However, in other embodiments, at least one of
the openings of the ends 1928 can be adjustable in shape or size,
whether manually or automatically, like an adjustable wrench. For
example, at least one of the jaws 1930, 1932 can be configured to
move such that a width of at least one of the openings of the ends
1928 is changed. Such movement can be elastic, such as biased via a
spring, or via a roller mechanism, such as used in an adjustable
wrench. In some embodiments, one of the ends 1928 is closed, such
as in an O-ring manner, such that the bridge 1926 appears as a
combination wrench. Resultantly, in such configuration, the closed
end 128 allows the bridge 1924 to pivot sideways, about the leg
1904. In some embodiments, both ends 128 are closed, such as in an
O-ring manner. Note that such closure can be non-adjustable or
fixed, such as seamless/fully continuous, or in a clamshell manner,
such as via spring-loaded pivotal opening of at least one of the
jaws 1930, 1932, whether manual or automatic.
[0147] Note that the bridge 1924 is closer to a ground surface, on
which the legs 1904 rest, than the bridge 1916. For example, the
bridge 1924 is closer to the ends 1904A than the bridge 1916. Also
for example, the bridge 1916 is coupled to the legs 1904 in an
upper half thereof and the bridge 1924 is coupled to the legs 1904
in a lower half thereof. In some embodiments, the bridge 1924 can
be coupled, such as removably, to the frame 1900 when not in aid of
squatting posture use, such as when the bridge 1916 does not
directly oppose the bridge 1924. Such coupling can be of any type,
such as magnetic, adhesive, interlocking, mating, fastening, or
others. For example, the bridge 1924 can be magnetically coupled to
one of the side portions 1902, such as along one of the legs 1904
vertically or along the handle portion 1908 horizontally.
[0148] The frame 1900 includes a pair of collars 1938, which
include a body 1938A, which can be similar to the body 1918A, a
first opening, which can be similar to the opening 1918B, a second
opening 1938B, which can be similar to the opening 1918C, and an
inner channel 1938C, which can be similar to the channel 1918D. At
least one of the collars 1938 can be identical to or different from
at least one of the collars 1918 in shape, size, material, or
structure, in whole or in part. Note that the ledges 1920 can also
be coupled to the legs 1904 to support the collars 1938, as
described herein.
[0149] The frame 1900 includes a pair of locking pins 1940, which
includes a shaft 1940, which can be similar to the shaft 1922A, a
wedge-shape plunger 1940B, which can be similar to the plunger
1922B, and a pulling mechanism 1940C, which can be similar to the
pulling mechanism 1922C, which can include a loop for manual
pulling. The shaft 1940A contains a spring, such as a coil spring
or a flat spring, which enables the plunger 1940B be deployed and
un-deployed. When the plunger 1940B is deployed, the plunger 1940B
extends out of the shaft 1940A. At least one of the collars 1940
can be identical to or different from at least one of the collars
1922 in shape, size, material, or structure, in whole or in
part.
[0150] Internally, such as within the body 1926, or externally,
such as on any surface of the body 1926, whether fully or
partially, in any shape, size, or pattern or lack thereof, the body
1926 or at least one of the jaw portions 1930, 1932 can include a
magnet, a mater, an interlocker, or a hook-and-loop fastener,
whether within at least one of the open ends 1928 or external
thereto, whether assembled or unitary thereto. Further, note that
other types of such coupling are possible as well, such as
fastening. Such configuration enables more secure coupling of the
bridge 1924 to at least one of the legs 1904 or at least one of the
collars 1938. Note that a reverse configuration is possible as
well, such as at least one of the legs 1904 or at least one of the
collars 1938 being magnetized, in any manner, whether identical to
or different from each other, as described herein. Resultantly, the
body 1926, whether in whole or in part, can couple to at least one
of the legs 1904, at least one of the collars 1938, or at least one
of the pins 1940, such as via magnets, fastening, or in another
way. In some embodiments, at least one of the legs 1904 can be
configured to support the bridge 1936, such as via a cantilevered
bar extending from the at least one of the legs 1904 or via an
H-shaped member extending from the at least one of the legs 1904.
In some embodiments, the body 1926 defines an open space, such as a
cuboid-shaped well, for storage. For example, the body 1926 can
include a lid, which is shaped for the open space and pivotally
coupled to the body 1926 to control access to the interior open
space.
[0151] The frame 1900 can include a fourth bridge 1936 which
includes a first end 1936A and a second end 19368. The bridge 1936
be identical to or different from the bridge 1916 in shape, size,
material, or structure, in whole or in part. The bridge 1936 can
provide additional support to the bridge 1924, such as due to
downward foot pressure of the user. The bridge 1936 can span
between the legs 104, opposing the bridge 1916, via the collars
1938, with the ends 1936A, 1936B being coupled to the collars 1938
as the bridge 1916, as described herein. The bridge 1936 can
include a magnet, a mater, an interlocker, or a hook-and-loop
fastener, whether assembled or unitary thereto, such as the bridge
1924.
[0152] In one method of operation, the collars 1938 are mounted
onto the legs 1904 via the pins 1940, as described herein. The
bridge 1924 is positioned onto the collars 1938 such that the
bridge 1924 opposes the bridge 1916 and the ends 128 engage the
legs 1904 via the jaws 1930, 1932. The bridge 1924 couples to the
collars 1938 via fastening, mating, interlocking, or magnetism.
Resultantly, for squatting posture purposes, the user can convert
the frame 1900 from an open U-shape, which is used for walking
support, into a closed shape, such as a D-shape or an O-shape via
the bridge 1924, which is used for supporting the user's legs
during defecation. Likewise, for walking purposes, the user can
convert the frame 1900 from the closed shape, which is used for
supporting the user's legs during defecation, into the open shape,
which is used for walking support. Note that the structures
disclosed herein can be used for any users, including geriatric,
recuperative, pediatric or bariatric purposes, can be height
adjustable, while allowing for a maintenance of a slight arm
bend.
[0153] The description of the present disclosure has been presented
for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended
to be fully exhaustive and/or limited to the disclosure in the form
disclosed. Many modifications and variations in techniques and
structures will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art
without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure as
set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, such
modifications and variations are contemplated as being a part of
the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is
defined by the claims, which includes known equivalents and
unforeseeable equivalents at the time of filing of the present
disclosure.
* * * * *