U.S. patent application number 17/232320 was filed with the patent office on 2021-08-05 for cane with deployable support structure.
The applicant listed for this patent is Challenge America, United States Government as Represented by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Invention is credited to Christopher Lee Carter, Aidan Richard Wilhelm Friederich, Michael Fugate, Jason Grenfell, Elle Marcus, Angela Payton, Scott Rawlings, Emily Rose Szabo, Michael Christopher Tracz.
Application Number | 20210235826 17/232320 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005526737 |
Filed Date | 2021-08-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210235826 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Friederich; Aidan Richard Wilhelm ;
et al. |
August 5, 2021 |
Cane With Deployable Support Structure
Abstract
A cane having: a primary leg with a top end and an opposed
bottom end; a handle coupled to the top end of the primary leg; and
at least two secondary legs that are each pivotably coupled to the
primary leg between the top and bottom ends of the primary leg.
Each of the at least two secondary legs is pivotable between a
first, retracted position and a second, deployed position.
Inventors: |
Friederich; Aidan Richard
Wilhelm; (Conifer, CO) ; Carter; Christopher Lee;
(Warren, OH) ; Payton; Angela; (Mansfield, OH)
; Tracz; Michael Christopher; (Brecksville, OH) ;
Szabo; Emily Rose; (Strongsville, OH) ; Marcus;
Elle; (Lakewood, OH) ; Fugate; Michael;
(Cleveland, OH) ; Grenfell; Jason; (Streetsboro,
OH) ; Rawlings; Scott; (North Ridgeville,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
United States Government as Represented by the Department of
Veterans Affairs
Challenge America |
Washington
Basalt |
DC
CO |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005526737 |
Appl. No.: |
17/232320 |
Filed: |
April 16, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16857951 |
Apr 24, 2020 |
11006709 |
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17232320 |
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62840197 |
Apr 29, 2019 |
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62838802 |
Apr 25, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45B 9/02 20130101; F16M
13/08 20130101; A45B 2009/002 20130101; A61H 2003/0272 20130101;
A45B 5/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45B 5/00 20060101
A45B005/00; A45B 9/02 20060101 A45B009/02; F16M 13/08 20060101
F16M013/08 |
Claims
1. A cane comprising: a primary leg having a top end and an opposed
bottom end; a handle coupled to the top end of the primary leg; and
at least two secondary legs that are each pivotably coupled to the
primary leg between the top and bottom ends of the primary leg,
wherein each of the at least two secondary legs is pivotable
between a first, retracted position and a second, deployed
position.
2. The cane of claim 1, wherein each of the at least two secondary
legs comprises a proximal end that is pivotably coupled to the
primary leg and an opposed distal end, wherein when the at least
two secondary legs are in the deployed position, the distal end of
each secondary leg and the bottom end of the primary leg are
configured to concurrently engage a surface upon which a user of
the cane is walking or standing.
3. The cane of claim 2, wherein the at least two secondary legs
consists of two secondary legs, and wherein when the two secondary
legs are in the deployed position, the distal ends of the two
secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg provide three
points of contact with the surface.
4. The cane of claim 2, wherein the at least two secondary legs
consists of three secondary legs, and wherein when the three
secondary legs are in the deployed position, the distal ends of the
three secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg provide
four points of contact with the surface.
5. The cane of claim 2, wherein the handle is selectively removable
and replaceable.
6. The cane of claim 2, further comprising a collar that defines an
opening that receives the primary leg, wherein the collar is
secured to the primary leg between the handle and the proximal ends
of the at least two secondary legs.
7. The cane of claim 6, wherein the collar has a sleeve portion and
a flange portion that extends radially outwardly from the sleeve
portion to define a support surface.
8. The cane of claim 2, further comprising a connector assembly
having: a connector body that defines an opening that receives the
primary leg; and at least two connector projections extending from
the connector body, wherein each secondary leg of the at least two
secondary legs is pivotably connected to a respective connector
projection of the at least two connector projections.
9. The cane of claim 8, wherein the connector body is selectively
axially translatable along a length of the primary leg to effect
movement of the at least two secondary legs about and between the
retracted position and the deployed position.
10. The cane of claim 9, wherein the primary leg comprises at least
one stop element configured to engage the connector body to limit
axial translation of the connector body along the primary leg.
11. The cane of claim 10. wherein the at least one stop element
comprises at least one button clip.
12. The cane of claim 2, further comprising a guide assembly
having: a center coupling that defines an opening that receives the
primary leg and is secured to the primary leg between the proximal
ends of the at least two secondary legs and the bottom end of the
primary leg; and at least two extension arms extending radially
outwardly from the center coupling, wherein each extension arm of
the at least two extension arms is pivotably coupled to the center
coupling and a respective secondary leg of the at least two
secondary legs.
13. The cane of claim 12, wherein the guide assembly further
comprises at least two outer couplings, wherein each outer coupling
of the at least two outer couplings is secured to a respective
secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs between the
proximal and distal ends of the secondary leg, and wherein each
extension arm of the at least two extension arms is pivotably
coupled to the center coupling and a respective outer coupling of
the at least two outer couplings.
14. The cane of claim 2, further comprising a retention assembly
comprising: a center body that defines an opening that receives the
primary leg and is secured to the primary leg between the proximal
ends of the at least two secondary legs and the bottom end of the
primary leg; and at least two retention elements extending radially
outwardly from the center body and configured to engage a
respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs when
the at least two secondary legs are in the retracted position.
15. The cane of claim 14, wherein each retention element comprises
a mounting clip that is configured to receive a portion of a
respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs.
16. The cane of claim 3, further comprising: a connector assembly
having: a connector body that defines an opening that receives the
primary leg; and at least two connector projections extending from
the connector body; and two sleeves that each receive and are
secured to a proximal end of a respective secondary leg of the two
secondary legs, wherein each of the two sleeves is pivotably
coupled to a respective connector projection of the at least two
connector projections.
17. The cane of claim 16, wherein the connector body is not axially
translatable relative to a length of the primary leg.
18. The cane of claim 16, wherein the connector body further
comprises two stop elements, wherein each of the two stop elements
overlies a respective connector projection and is configured to
limit pivotal movement of a respective secondary leg relative to
the connector projection.
19. The cane of claim 16, wherein the two connector projections
extend radially outwardly from the connector body.
20. The cane of claim 1, further comprising an extension arm
comprising first and second sections that are each pivotably
coupled to respective distal ends of each secondary leg of the at
least two secondary legs, wherein the first and second sections are
pivotably coupled to each other.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 16/857,951, filed Apr. 24, 2020, which claims
priority to and the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/838,802, filed Apr. 25, 2019, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/840,197, filed Apr. 29, 2019.
Each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference in
its entirety.
FIELD
[0002] The disclosed invention relates to apparatuses and methods
for enabling individuals to have a deployable support, in
particular for enabling the individuals to raise and lower
themselves.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Individuals with sustained nerve damage in the lower
extremities may experience pain and weakness, resulting in
difficulty moving down to the ground and standing up again. These
individuals often lean on nearby objects to stabilize them, which
is not conducive to all scenarios. Canes provide stability while
walking, but this mechanism is not ideal for transfer to and from
the ground.
[0004] Existing walking assistance devices such as canes are
beneficial for providing stability while walking. However, there
are limitations to a cane's usage. Canes have limited
weight-bearing characteristics, and cannot be used to aid to
regaining stability after a fall. If an individual falls to the
ground, the individual can have limited resources to regain their
footing and hoist themselves into an upright position. If the
individual holds the cane upright against the ground to regain
their footing, the cane handle may be configured too high to be
comfortably grasped from the floor, and the cane's single contact
point with the ground can also be unstable.
SUMMARY
[0005] In exemplary aspects, disclosed herein is a cane that
includes a selectively deployable support and/or stabilizing
structure. The cane can have a primary leg, a handle, and at least
two secondary legs. The primary leg can have a top end and an
opposed bottom end. The handle can be coupled to the top end of the
primary leg. The at least two secondary legs can each be pivotably
coupled to the primary leg between the top and bottom ends of the
primary leg. Each of the at least two secondary legs can be
pivotable between a first, retracted position and a second,
deployed position.
[0006] Each of the at least two secondary legs can have a proximal
end that is pivotably coupled to the primary leg and an opposed
distal end. When the at least two secondary legs are in the
deployed position, the distal end of each secondary leg and the
bottom end of the primary leg can be configured to concurrently
engage a surface upon which a user of the cane is walking or
standing.
[0007] The handle can be selectively removable and replaceable.
[0008] A collar can define an opening that receives the primary
leg, and the collar can be secured to the primary leg between the
handle and the proximal ends of the at least two secondary legs.
The collar can have a sleeve portion and a flange portion that
extends radially outwardly from the sleeve portion to define a
support surface.
[0009] The cane can include a connector assembly having: a
connector body that defines an opening that receives the primary
leg; and at least two connector projections extending from the
connector body. Each secondary leg of the at least two secondary
legs can be pivotably connected to a respective connector
projection of the at least two connector projections.
[0010] The connector body can be selectively axially translatable
along a length of the primary leg to effect movement of the at
least two secondary legs about and between the retracted position
and the deployed position.
[0011] The primary leg can include at least one stop element
configured to engage the connector body to limit axial translation
of the connector body along the primary leg. Optionally, the at
least one stop element can comprise at least one button clip.
[0012] The cane can include a guide assembly having: a center
coupling that defines an opening that receives the primary leg and
is secured to the primary leg between the proximal ends of the at
least two secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg; and
at least two extension arms extending radially outwardly from the
center coupling. Each extension arm of the at least two extension
arms can be pivotably coupled to the center coupling and a
respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs.
[0013] The guide assembly can further comprise at least two outer
couplings. Each outer coupling of the at least two outer couplings
can be secured to a respective secondary leg of the at least two
secondary legs between the proximal and distal ends of the
secondary leg. Each extension arm of the at least two extension
arms can be pivotably coupled to the center coupling and a
respective outer coupling of the at least two outer couplings.
[0014] The cane can include a retention assembly having: a center
body that defines an opening that receives the primary leg and is
secured to the primary leg between the proximal ends of the at
least two secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg; and
at least two retention elements extending radially outwardly from
the center body and configured to engage a respective secondary leg
of the at least two secondary legs when the at least two secondary
legs are in the retracted position. Optionally, each retention
element can include a mounting clip that is configured to receive a
portion of a respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary
legs.
[0015] Optionally, the at least two secondary legs consist of two
secondary legs, and when the two secondary legs are in the deployed
position, the distal ends of the two secondary legs and the bottom
end of the primary leg provide three points of contact with the
surface. The cane can further include a connector assembly having:
a connector body that defines an opening that receives the primary
leg; and at least two connector projections extending from the
connector body; and two sleeves that each receive and are secured
to a proximal end of a respective secondary leg of the two
secondary legs. Each of the two sleeves can be pivotably coupled to
a respective connector projection of the two connector projections.
Optionally, the connector body is not axially translatable relative
to a length of the primary leg. Optionally, the connector body can
include two stop elements. Each of the two stop elements can
overlie a respective connector projection and be configured to
limit pivotal movement of a respective secondary leg relative to
the connector projection. Optionally, the two connector projections
extend radially outwardly from the connector body. Optionally, the
connector body can further define first and second receiving
spaces. A first connector projection of the two connector
projections can extend downwardly into the first receiving space,
and a second connector projection of the two connector projections
can extend downwardly into the second receiving space. A first
sleeve of the two sleeves can be at least partially received within
the first receiving space, and wherein a second sleeve of the two
sleeves is at least partially received within the second receiving
space.
[0016] Optionally, the at least two secondary legs can consist of
three secondary legs, and when the three secondary legs are in the
deployed position, the distal ends of the three secondary legs and
the bottom end of the primary leg can provide four points of
contact with the surface.
[0017] Additional advantages of the invention will be set forth in
part in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious
from the description, or may be learned by practice of the
invention. The advantages of the invention will be realized and
attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly
pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that
both the foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not
restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] These and other features of the preferred embodiments of the
invention will become more apparent in the detailed description in
which reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a deployable cane, in
accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, in a deployed
configuration;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the deployable cane as in
FIG. 1, with the cane in a retracted configuration.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another deployable cane in
accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, with the cane in the
deployed configuration;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the deployable cane as in
FIG. 3, with the cane in the deployed configuration;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a close-up partial perspective view of the
deployable cane as in FIG. 3, in the retracted configuration;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary retention
assembly for use with the deployable cane as in FIG. 3;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a
deployable cane in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein,
with the deployable cane in the deployed configuration;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a close-up partial perspective view of the
deployable cane as in FIG. 7;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the deployable cane as in
FIG. 7, with the deployable cane in the retracted configuration;
and
[0028] FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective views of first and second
joint components, respectively, for use with the deployable cane as
in FIG. 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The present invention now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed,
this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should
not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein;
rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will
satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like
elements throughout. It is to be understood that this invention is
not limited to the particular methodology and protocols described,
as such may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology
used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments
only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present
invention.
[0030] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention
set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to
which the invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings
presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings.
Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that
modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included
within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms
are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive
sense only and not for purposes of limitation.
[0031] As used herein the singular forms "a," "an," and "the"
include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. For example, use of the term "a projection" can refer to
one or more of such projections, use of the term "an opening" can
refer to one or more of such openings, and so forth.
[0032] All technical and scientific terms used herein have the same
meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art
to which this invention belongs unless clearly indicated
otherwise.
[0033] As used herein, the terms "optional" or "optionally" mean
that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may
not occur, and that the description includes instances where said
event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
[0034] As used herein, the term "at least one of" is intended to be
synonymous with "one or more of." For example, "at least one of A,
B and C" explicitly includes only A, only B, only C, and
combinations of each.
[0035] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "approximately" one
particular value, and/or to "approximately" another particular
value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from
the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.
Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of
the antecedent "approximately," it will be understood that the
particular value forms another aspect. It will be further
understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant
both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the
other endpoint. Optionally, in some aspects, when values are
approximated by use of the antecedent "approximately," it is
contemplated that values within up to 15%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or
up to 1% (above or below) of the particularly stated value can be
included within the scope of those aspects.
[0036] The word "or" as used herein means any one member of a
particular list and also includes any combination of members of
that list.
[0037] It is to be understood that unless otherwise expressly
stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein
be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific
order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite
an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise
specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps
are to be limited to a specific order, it is in no way intended
that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any
possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters
of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow;
plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation;
and the number or type of aspects described in the
specification.
[0038] The following description supplies specific details in order
to provide a thorough understanding. Nevertheless, the skilled
artisan would understand that the apparatus, system, and associated
methods of using the apparatus can be implemented and used without
employing these specific details. Indeed, the apparatus, system,
and associated methods can be placed into practice by modifying the
illustrated apparatus, system, and associated methods and can be
used in conjunction with any other apparatus and techniques
conventionally used in the industry.
[0039] Disclosed herein, in various aspects and with reference to
the Figures, is a cane having a selectively deployable support
structure. In use, it is contemplated that the disclosed canes can
provide improved weight-bearing characteristics in comparison to
conventional canes. It is further contemplated that the disclosed
tripod canes can aid users in regaining stability after a fall, in
contrast to conventional canes. More particularly, it is
contemplated that the positioning of the handle and/or collar
and/or connector assembly of the disclosed canes and/or the
multiple points of contact between the canes and the ground can
assist users with comfortably engaging the handle and/or collar and
regaining their footing in a stable manner.
[0040] The cane can have two configurations: a walking mode
(retracted configuration), in which secondary legs are folded in
against the cane (primary leg) as further disclosed herein; and a
deployed configuration, in which the secondary legs are spread from
the cane (primary leg) to provide a supportive structure, which can
optionally have a tripod configuration. The secondary legs can be
shorter than the cane (primary leg) to allow the walking mode to
have only one point of contact with the ground to retain normal
cane functionality.
[0041] In exemplary aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 1-10B, a
cane 10 can comprise a primary leg 20, which can have a top end 22
and an opposed bottom end 24. As used herein, the term "primary
leg" refers to the shaft or other elongate structure of the cane 10
that provides support to the user of the cane and engages a floor
or ground surface while the support structures (as further
disclosed herein) are retracted (i.e., not deployed). The cane 10
can further comprise a handle 30 coupled to the top end 22 of the
primary leg 20. The handle 30 can have any style or shape. In
exemplary aspects, the handle can be a Derby-style handle, a
Fritz-style handle, an ergonomic handle, a palm-grip handle, an
offset handle (with curvature at the top end of the primary leg), a
tourist-style handle, an orthopedic handle, a knob-style handle, a
handle featuring a novelty design (e.g., an animal shape), or
combinations thereof. Optionally, the handle can be selectively
removable and replaceable. Thus, in exemplary aspects, the handle
30 can be secured to the primary leg 20 using a fastener (e.g., a
screw or a locking pin) that can be selectively removed to permit
replacement or adjustment of the handle. Optionally, a user can
replace a first handle with a second handle that is of a different
type or shape than the first handle. The cane 10 can still further
comprise at least two secondary legs 40 that are each pivotably
coupled to the primary leg 20 between the top and bottom ends of
the primary leg. As used herein, the term "pivotably coupled" is
intended to encompass any connection, coupling, or engagement that
permits of components relative to one another. In exemplary
aspects, and as depicted throughout the Figures, such pivotable
coupling can be achieved through the use of pins that are received
through aligned openings defined in the components that are
pivotably coupled to one another. However, it is contemplated that
other connection structures can be used, provided they permit the
pivotal motion disclosed herein. As further disclosed herein, each
of the at least two secondary legs 40 can be pivotable between a
first, retracted position (FIG. 2, for example) and a second,
deployed position (FIG. 1, for example).
[0042] In exemplary aspects, each of the at least two secondary
legs 40 can comprise a proximal end 42 that is pivotably coupled to
the primary leg 20 and an opposed distal end 44. In these aspects,
when the at least two secondary legs 40 are in the deployed
position, the distal end 44 of each secondary leg 40 and the bottom
end 24 of the primary leg 20 can be configured to concurrently
engage a surface upon which a user of the cane is walking or
standing (e.g., a floor or a ground surface). Optionally, the
bottom end 24 of the primary leg 20 can have a foot 28 (e.g., a
rubber cap or a grip and/or traction-enhancing surface) that is
configured to engage the surface. Similarly, in other optional
aspects, it is contemplated that the distal end 44 of at least one
(optionally each) of the secondary legs 40 can have a respective
foot 46 (e.g., a rubber cap or a grip and/or traction-enhancing
surface) that is configured to engage the surface. Optionally, in
exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 3-5 and 7-9, the at least
two secondary legs 40 can consist of two secondary legs. In these
aspects, when the two secondary legs 40 are in the deployed
position, the distal ends 44 of the two secondary legs and the
bottom end 24 of the primary leg 20 can provide three points of
contact with the surface upon which a user of the cane is walking
or standing. Optionally, in other exemplary aspects, and as shown
in FIGS. 1-2, the at least two secondary legs 40 can consist of
three secondary legs. In these aspects, when the three secondary
legs 40 are in the deployed position, the distal ends 44 of the
three secondary legs and the bottom end 24 of the primary leg 20
can provide four points of contact with the surface upon which a
user of the cane is walking or standing.
[0043] In further exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 1-2, the
cane 10 can comprise a collar 50 that defines an opening 52 that
receives a portion of the primary leg 20. In these aspects, the
collar 50 can be secured to the primary leg 20 between the handle
30 and the proximal ends 42 of the at least two secondary legs 40.
As shown in FIGS. 1-2, the collar 50 can have a sleeve portion 54
(e.g., an approximately cylindrical portion) and a flange portion
56 that extends radially outwardly from the sleeve portion. As
shown, the sleeve portion 54 can be closer to the handle 30 (and
the top end 22 of the primary leg 20) than the flange portion 56.
In use, the upwardly facing side of the flange portion 56 can
define a support surface 58 that can be used by a user of the cane
to provide additional stability or support, for example, when using
the cane to regain footing or otherwise lift up the body of the
user. Optionally, the collar 50 can be rigidly secured to the
primary leg 20 of the cane 10. For example, in some aspects, a
fastener (or plurality of fasteners) can secure the collar 50 to
the primary leg 20. Optionally, the collar 50 and the handle 30 of
the cane 10 can be secured to the primary leg 20 using the same
fastener (or plurality of fasteners). Optionally, in further
aspects, it is contemplated that the collar 50 can be configured
for selective axial translation relative to the primary leg 20 of
the cane 10. In these aspects, it is contemplated that the collar
50 can be selectively and releasably locked in place relative to
the primary leg 20 using a suitable fastener, such as a clip or
pin.
[0044] In further exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 1-5 and
7-10B, the cane 10 can comprise a connector assembly 60 having a
connector body 62 that defines an opening 63 that receives a
portion of the primary leg 20. The cane 10 can comprise at least
two connector projections 64 extending from the connector body 62.
Optionally, it is contemplated that each connector projection 64
can comprise multiple fingers or sections that are spaced apart
relative to a transverse axis. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, it is
contemplated that the connector projections 64 can extend radially
outwardly from the connector body 62. However, it is contemplated
that the connector projections 64 can extend in other directions,
including downwardly. Each secondary leg 40 of the at least two
secondary legs can be pivotably connected to a respective connector
projection 64 of the at least two connector projections.
Optionally, in exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 3-5, the
connector body 62 can further comprise at least two stop elements
65. In these aspects, each of the at least two stop elements 65 can
overlie a respective connector projection 64. In one configuration,
each stop element 65 can be an extension of the connector body 62
that extends radially beyond, and at an angle relative to, the
connector projection 64. In use, it is contemplated each of the at
least two stop elements 65 can be configured to limit pivotal
movement of a respective secondary leg 40 relative to the connector
projection 64. More particularly, as the pivotal movement of the
secondary leg 40 relative to the connector projection 64 increases,
the stop element 65 can be configured to engage a portion of the
proximal end 42 of the secondary leg 40 to prevent further pivotal
movement. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the stop
element 65 can be oriented to set a maximum amount of pivotal
movement of the secondary leg 40 relative to the retracted
position, which can optionally correspond to a vertical
orientation. In these aspects, the maximum amount of pivotal
movement can be a change in angular orientation (relative to the
retracted (e.g., vertical) orientation) ranging from approximately
30 degrees to approximately 60 degrees. Optionally, the maximum
permitted change in angular orientation can be 60 degrees. In
further exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the angular
orientation of the stop elements 65 can be selectively adjusted to
modify the maximum permitted change in angular orientation of the
secondary legs.
[0045] Optionally, in some aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 3-5
and 7-10B, the connector body 62 can be fixedly secured to the
primary leg 20 such that the position of the connector body
(relative to the primary leg) is not adjustable (i.e., the
connector body is not axially translatable along a length of the
primary leg). Alternatively, in other exemplary aspects, and with
reference to FIGS. 1-2, the connector body 62 can be selectively
axially translatable along a length of the primary leg 20 to effect
movement of the at least two secondary legs about and between the
retracted position and the deployed position. More particularly,
when starting from the retracted position, it is contemplated that
a user of the cane can selectively advance the connector body 62 in
a downward direction, thereby causing increasing outward pivotal
motion of the secondary legs 40 until a desired orientation of the
secondary legs is reached. In these aspects, it is contemplated
that the primary leg 20 can comprise a quick release mechanism
(e.g., a button clip or other releasable fastener) that releasably
secures the connector body 62 to the primary leg. Upon sufficient
disengagement between the quick release mechanism and the connector
body 62, the connector body can be selectively advanced in a
downward direction relative to the primary leg 20, thereby causing
deployment of the secondary legs, which provide lateral support to
the primary leg. Optionally, the disengagement can occur by inward
displacement of the release mechanism by the user and/or
application of downward force to the connector body to overcome the
retention force applied by the release mechanism.
[0046] It is further contemplated that the primary leg 20 can
comprise at least one stop element 26 that is positioned downwardly
of the quick release mechanism and configured to engage the
connector body to limit axial translation of the connector body 62
along the primary leg. For example, it is contemplated that the at
least one stop element 26 can comprise at least one button clip.
Optionally, the at least one stop element 26 can comprise a
plurality of stop elements (e.g., a plurality of button clips) that
are axially spaced along a portion of the length of the primary leg
to allow the user to select the ideal configuration of the
secondary legs. In these aspects, it is contemplated that some of
the stop elements can optionally be bypassed to permit further
downward movement of the connector body 62. In further aspects, at
least one of the stop elements (e.g., the lowest of the stop
elements) can provide a hard stop that cannot be bypassed. For
example, in these aspects, the hard stop can be provided by a
safety collar (not shown) that defines a radially projecting lip
that is configured to engage a bottom surface of the connector body
to prevent further axial movement toward the bottom end of the
primary leg, thereby preventing the secondary legs from
slipping.
[0047] In exemplary aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 7-9, the
cane 10 can comprise at least two sleeves 90 that each receive and
are secured to a proximal end 42 of a respective secondary leg 40
of the at least two secondary legs. In these aspects, it is
contemplated that each of the at least two sleeves 90 can be
pivotably coupled to a respective connector projection 64 of the at
least two connector projections of the connector assembly 60. As
shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 7-9, each sleeve 90 can comprise a
respective projection 92 that is configured for pivotable coupling
to a respective connector projection 64. Optionally, it is
contemplated that each sleeve projection 92 can comprise multiple
fingers or sections that are spaced apart relative to a transverse
axis. More generally, it is contemplated that the sleeve
projections 92 and the connector projections 64 can have
complementary shapes that cooperate to define an opening for
receiving a pin that defines an axis for pivotal motion as
disclosed herein.
[0048] In further aspects, the cane 10 can comprise a guide
assembly 70 having a center coupling 72 that defines an opening 74
that receives the primary leg 20. The center coupling 72 can be
secured to the primary leg 20 between the proximal ends 42 of the
at least two secondary legs and the bottom end 24 of the primary
leg. The guide assembly 70 can further comprise at least two
extension arms 76 extending radially outwardly from the center
coupling 72. Each extension arm 76 of the at least two extension
arms can be pivotably coupled to the center coupling 72 and a
respective secondary leg 40 of the at least two secondary legs.
Optionally, in additional aspects, and as shown in FIGS. 1-2, the
guide assembly 70 can further comprise at least two outer couplings
78. In these aspects, each outer coupling 78 of the at least two
outer couplings can be secured to a respective secondary leg 40 of
the at least two secondary legs between the proximal and distal
ends 42, 44 of the secondary leg. Each extension arm 76 of the at
least two extension arms can be pivotably coupled to the center
coupling 72 and a respective outer coupling 78 of the at least two
outer couplings. Thus, during movement of the secondary legs 40
about and between the retracted and deployed positions, the guide
assembly 70 can smoothly guide and control the motion of the
respective secondary legs. Additionally, the extension arms 76 can
provide further stability to the secondary legs.
[0049] In still further aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 1-2
and 6, the cane 10 can comprise a retention assembly 80 comprising
a center body 82 that defines an opening 84 that receives a portion
of the primary leg 20. The retention assembly 80 can be secured to
the primary leg 20 between the proximal ends 42 of the at least two
secondary legs 40 and the bottom end 24 of the primary leg 20. The
retention assembly 80 can further comprise at least two retention
elements 86 extending radially outwardly from the center body 82.
As shown in FIG. 2, each retention element 86 can be configured to
engage a respective secondary leg 40 of the at least two secondary
legs when the at least two secondary legs are in the retracted
position. In exemplary aspects, each retention element 86 can
comprise a mounting clip that is configured to receive a portion of
a respective secondary leg 40 of the at least two secondary legs.
However, it is contemplated that any clip, clamp, clasp,
hook-and-loop fastener, or other fastener that is capable of
retaining the secondary legs in a retracted position as disclosed
herein can be used.
[0050] In the exemplary configuration depicted in FIGS. 3-5, the at
least two secondary legs 40 can consist of two secondary legs. As
shown, the at least two connector projections 64 of the connector
assembly can consist of two connector projections. As shown, the
connector projections 64 can extend radially outwardly from the
connector body 62. Optionally, the connector body can have two stop
elements 65. The guide assembly and retention assembly can
optionally be omitted.
[0051] In the exemplary configuration depicted in FIGS. 7-10B, the
connector body 62 can define first and second receiving spaces 66a,
66b. As shown, first and second connector projections 64a, 64b can
extend, respectively, within the first and second receiving spaces
66a, 66b. Optionally, a first sleeve 90a (associated with a first
secondary leg) can be at least partially received within the first
receiving space 66a, and a second sleeve (associated with a second
secondary leg) can be at least partially received within the second
receiving space 66b, with the projections 92 of the sleeves being
pivotably coupled to the connector projections (e.g., in the manner
of a hinge). In exemplary aspects, the connector body 62 can have a
structure as depicted in FIGS. 10A-10B. As shown, the first
receiving space 66a can be defined by a first outer wall 67a, a
first inner wall 68a, and a first upper wall 69a, while the second
receiving space 66b can be defined by a second outer wall 67b, a
second inner wall 68b, and a second upper wall 69b. Optionally, as
shown, the first and second receiving spaces 66a, 66b can connect
to one another. It is contemplated that the first connector
projection 64a can extend downwardly into the first receiving space
66a, while the second connector projection 64b can extend
downwardly into the second receiving space 66b. In this
configuration, it is contemplated that the upper walls 69a, 69b can
function as stop elements 65 to restrict movement of the first and
second secondary legs. Optionally, in some aspects, the distal ends
44 and/or feet 46 of the two secondary legs 40 can be coupled
together and stabilized by an extension arm 100. In these aspects,
the extension arm 100 can comprise a first section that is
pivotably coupled to the distal end 44 of a first secondary leg and
a second section that is pivotably coupled to the distal end 44 of
a second secondary leg, with the first and second sections being
pivotably coupled to one another. In use, as shown in FIG. 7, when
the first and second secondary legs are moved to the deployed
position, the first and second sections of the extension arm 100
can form an approximately horizontal support structure. In the
retracted position, as shown in FIG. 9, the first and second
sections can pivot relative to the first and the second secondary
legs and to one another to produce a minimal horizontal profile
that permits retraction of the first and second secondary legs.
[0052] In use, the configurations depicted in FIGS. 3-6 and 7-10B
permit a user to easily move the secondary legs between a retracted
configuration and a deployed configuration by angling the primary
leg 20 from a vertical orientation (in which the secondary legs are
likewise vertically oriented) to an angled orientation as shown in
FIGS. 3 and 7. When the primary leg 20 is angled, the angular
orientation of the connector projections 64 (and the pivotably
coupled secondary legs) cause the secondary legs 40 to pivot
outwardly to produce a tripod structure. In this configuration, it
is understood that the length of the secondary legs will be less
than the length of the primary leg 20 so that in a standard
(vertical) cane configuration, only the primary leg will contact
the ground/floor. Optionally, in some aspects, it is contemplated
that the connector projections 64 can be angularly offset by
approximately 120 degrees relative to one another, with the primary
leg positioned in between the two connector projections. In these
aspects, it is contemplated that when the primary leg is angled
downwardly as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the primary leg and the two
secondary legs can form an approximately symmetrical tripod
structure.
[0053] As further disclosed herein, the connector assembly can hold
the secondary legs, and lock the secondary legs in place with
screws and/or pins. The collar can fit directly on top of the
connector body, and the connector body itself can be suitable for
grasping, thereby providing users with a stable weight bearing
component to plant their hands and hoist themselves up to standing
position. To deploy the secondary legs, the user can apply pressure
down onto the connector body, which shifts the secondary legs and
the connector body downward, thereby deploying the secondary legs.
A rubber foot can be disposed at the bottom of each secondary leg
to prevent the device from slipping on smooth terrain and allow the
device to be used in various environments.
[0054] When the secondary legs are deployed, the button clips (or
other stop elements) can be engaged, thereby preventing the
secondary legs from moving toward their respective retracted
positions. The user can depress the button clips to release the
secondary legs. The user can then lift the connector body upward to
close the secondary legs, thereby reverting the device into the
traditional cane position, with only the primary leg in contact
with the ground/floor. As the device is reverted into the
traditional cane position, the secondary legs can be moved medially
toward the primary leg, and the connector body is shifted upward
toward the handle.
[0055] In exemplary aspects, the primary leg of the cane can be
adjusted to the user's preferred cane height in the walking
position. The primary leg can comprise aluminum or other similar
lightweight metal materials.
[0056] It is contemplated that the collar, the connector assembly,
the guide assembly, the retention assembly, and/or various other
components disclosed herein can be 3-D printed, injection molded,
or manufactured by any other method known to those skilled in the
art.
[0057] Optionally, foam bumpers or other dampening material can be
attached to portions (e.g., the bottom) of each extension arm to
allow for simple deployment of the secondary legs and minimize
damaging mechanical engagement with other device components.
[0058] In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the disclosed
connector assembly 60 (and, optionally, the disclosed guide
assembly 70 and/or retention assembly 80) can be attached to an
existing cane to produce a retrofitted cane that operates as
disclosed herein.
[0059] Optionally, the connector body can comprise a corner swivel
socket-type pipe joint (e.g., model no. C52-555) that is modified
to restrict pivotal movement of the joint using stop elements as
disclosed herein.
[0060] Although referred to herein as a deployable cane having two
or three secondary legs, in further embodiments, the deployable
cane can have four, five, six, or more deployable secondary
legs.
Exemplary Aspects
[0061] In view of the described products, systems, and methods and
variations thereof, herein below are described certain more
particularly described aspects of the invention. These particularly
recited aspects should not however be interpreted to have any
limiting effect on any different claims containing different or
more general teachings described herein, or that the "particular"
aspects are somehow limited in some way other than the inherent
meanings of the language literally used therein.
[0062] Aspect 1: A cane comprising: a primary leg having a top end
and an opposed bottom end; a handle coupled to the top end of the
primary leg; and at least two secondary legs that are each
pivotably coupled to the primary leg between the top and bottom
ends of the primary leg, wherein each of the at least two secondary
legs is pivotably between a first, retracted position and a second,
deployed position.
[0063] Aspect 2: The cane of aspect 1, wherein each of the at least
two secondary legs comprises a proximal end that is pivotably
coupled to the primary leg and an opposed distal end, wherein when
the at least two secondary legs are in the deployed position, the
distal end of each secondary leg and the bottom end of the primary
leg are configured to concurrently engage a surface upon which a
user of the cane is walking or standing.
[0064] Aspect 3: The cane of aspect 2, wherein the at least two
secondary legs consists of two secondary legs, and wherein when the
two secondary legs are in the deployed position, the distal ends of
the two secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg
provide three points of contact with the surface.
[0065] Aspect 4: The cane of aspect 2, wherein the at least two
secondary legs consists of three secondary legs, and wherein when
the three secondary legs are in the deployed position, the distal
ends of the three secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary
leg provide four points of contact with the surface.
[0066] Aspect 5: The cane of any one of aspects 2-4, wherein the
handle is selectively removable and replaceable.
[0067] Aspect 6: The cane of any one of aspects 2-5, further
comprising a collar that defines an opening that receives the
primary leg, wherein the collar is secured to the primary leg
between the handle and the proximal ends of the at least two
secondary legs.
[0068] Aspect 7: The cane of aspect 6, wherein the collar has a
sleeve portion and a flange portion that extends radially outwardly
from the sleeve portion to define a support surface.
[0069] Aspect 8: The cane of any one of aspects 2-7, further
comprising a connector assembly having: a connector body that
defines an opening that receives the primary leg; and at least two
connector projections extending from the connector body, wherein
each secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs is pivotably
connected to a respective connector projection of the at least two
connector projections.
[0070] Aspect 9: The cane of aspect 8, wherein the connector body
is selectively axially translatable along a length of the primary
leg to effect movement of the at least two secondary legs about and
between the retracted position and the deployed position.
[0071] Aspect 10: The cane of aspect 9, wherein the primary leg
comprises at least one stop element configured to engage the
connector body to limit axial translation of the connector body
along the primary leg.
[0072] Aspect 11: The cane of aspect 10, wherein the at least one
stop element comprises at least one button clip.
[0073] Aspect 12: The cane of any one of aspects 2-11, further
comprising a guide assembly having: a center coupling that defines
an opening that receives the primary leg and is secured to the
primary leg between the proximal ends of the at least two secondary
legs and the bottom end of the primary leg; and at least two
extension arms extending radially outwardly from the center
coupling, wherein each extension arm of the at least two extension
arms is pivotably coupled to the center coupling and a respective
secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs.
[0074] Aspect 13: The cane of aspect 12, wherein the guide assembly
further comprises at least two outer couplings, wherein each outer
coupling of the at least two outer couplings is secured to a
respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary legs between
the proximal and distal ends of the secondary leg, and wherein each
extension arm of the at least two extension arms is pivotably
coupled to the center coupling and a respective outer coupling of
the at least two outer couplings.
[0075] Aspect 14: The cane of any one of aspects 2-13, further
comprising a retention assembly comprising: a center body that
defines an opening that receives the primary leg and is secured to
the primary leg between the proximal ends of the at least two
secondary legs and the bottom end of the primary leg; and at least
two retention elements extending radially outwardly from the center
body and configured to engage a respective secondary leg of the at
least two secondary legs when the at least two secondary legs are
in the retracted position.
[0076] Aspect 15: The cane of aspect 14, wherein each retention
element comprises a mounting clip that is configured to receive a
portion of a respective secondary leg of the at least two secondary
legs.
[0077] Aspect 16: The cane of aspect 3, further comprising: a
connector assembly having: a connector body that defines an opening
that receives the primary leg; and at least two connector
projections extending from the connector body; and two sleeves that
each receive and are secured to a proximal end of a respective
secondary leg of the two secondary legs, wherein each of the two
sleeves is pivotably coupled to a respective connector projection
of the two connector projections.
[0078] Aspect 17: The cane of aspect 16, wherein the connector body
is not axially translatable relative to a length of the primary
leg.
[0079] Aspect 18: The cane of aspect 16 or aspect 17, wherein the
connector body further comprises two stop elements, wherein each of
the two stop elements overlies a respective connector projection
and is configured to limit pivotal movement of a respective
secondary leg relative to the connector projection.
[0080] Aspect 19: The cane of any one of aspects 16-18, wherein the
two connector projections extend radially outwardly from the
connector body.
[0081] Aspect 20: The cane of aspect 18, wherein the connector body
further defines first and second receiving spaces, wherein a first
connector projection of the two connector projections extends
downwardly into the first receiving space, wherein a second
connector projection of the two connector projections extends
downwardly into the second receiving space, wherein a first sleeve
of the two sleeves is at least partially received within the first
receiving space, and wherein a second sleeve of the two sleeves is
at least partially received within the second receiving space.
[0082] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some
detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity
of understanding, certain changes and modifications may be
practiced within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *