U.S. patent application number 17/282416 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-09 for seat riser apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is VERSUS ARTHRITIS. Invention is credited to Nathan Lyell, Martin Riddiford, Dominic TOOZE.
Application Number | 20210378465 17/282416 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005841018 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210378465 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TOOZE; Dominic ; et
al. |
December 9, 2021 |
SEAT RISER APPARATUS
Abstract
The present invention provides a riser apparatus which is
configured to rise the height of a seat, such as a toilet seat. The
present invention also provides a kit comprising a riser apparatus
of the invention and a seat arrangement and provides for the use of
the riser apparatus and kit in order to assist a mobility impaired
subject to use a seat.
Inventors: |
TOOZE; Dominic; (London,
GB) ; Riddiford; Martin; (London, GB) ; Lyell;
Nathan; (London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
VERSUS ARTHRITIS |
Chesterfield Derbyshire |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005841018 |
Appl. No.: |
17/282416 |
Filed: |
October 17, 2019 |
PCT Filed: |
October 17, 2019 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2019/052974 |
371 Date: |
April 2, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 13/28 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47K 13/28 20060101
A47K013/28 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 19, 2018 |
GB |
1817068.8 |
Claims
1. A seat riser apparatus for coupling to a seat arrangement,
comprising a riser member rotatably coupled to a seat component
and, at an opposing end, the riser member comprising a coupling
arrangement for rotatably coupling the riser member to a support
component.
2. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a
support component rotatably coupled to the riser member.
3. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, configured for use with a
toilet.
4. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the riser member is
provided by a hinged rod.
5. The seat riser apparatus of claim 4, wherein the apparatus
comprises two riser members.
6. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein the support
component comprises one or more engagement portions configured to
engage a portion of the seat component.
7. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the riser member
comprises one or more engagement portions configured to engage a
portion of the seat component.
8. The seat riser apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more
engagement portions comprise one or more grooves, protrusions,
and/or pins.
9. The seat riser apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more
engagement portions comprise one or more rods rotatably coupled to
the seat component at one end and comprising a coupling arrangement
for rotatably coupling the engagement portion to the support
component at the opposing end.
10. The seat riser apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more
engagement portions are configured to prevent over-rotation of the
seat component relative to the support component.
11. The seat riser apparatus of claim 6, wherein the one or more
engagement portions prevent an edge of the seat component from
being displaced by more than a maximum distance from the support
component.
12. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the riser member
coupling to the seat component is positioned away from the edge of
the seat component configured to engage the one or more engagement
portions.
13. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the seat riser
apparatus comprises a second seat component, wherein the second
seat component is coupled to the support component and/or first
seat component by a single hinge mechanism configured to enable
rotational movement of the second seat relative to the support
component and/or first seat component without simultaneous linear
movement.
14. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first seat
component comprises one or more movable support elements.
15. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein the support
component is configured to be capable of housing the first seat
component.
16. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein the seat riser
apparatus comprising a further coupling means for releasably
coupling a portion of the first seat component to the support
component to enable simultaneous rotation of the support component
and seat component without linear movement.
17. The seat riser apparatus of claim 15, wherein the further
coupling means comprises one or more magnets.
18. The seat riser apparatus of claim 15, wherein the apparatus
comprises an externally mounted release mechanism configured to
release the further coupling to automatically deploy the seat
component, wherein the release mechanism comprises a push
button.
19. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein rotation of the
first seat component relative to the support component, results in
a linear movement of the seat component relative to the lid of 5-30
cm.
20. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first seat
component comprises a graspable element configured to enable a user
to move the first seat component relative to the support
component.
21. The seat riser apparatus of claim 2, wherein the support
component comprises a back support element.
22. The seat riser apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first seat
component comprise at least one portion formed of a resiliently
deformable material.
23. A kit, comprising a seat arrangement and the seat riser
apparatus of claim 1.
24. The kit of claim 23, wherein the seat arrangement comprises a
toilet.
25. A seat arrangement, comprising the seat riser apparatus of
claim 1.
26. The seat arrangement of claim 25, wherein the seat arrangement
comprises a toilet.
27. A toilet of claim 26, wherein the seat riser apparatus is
configured to be rotatable between a first position substantially
parallel with a rim of the toilet and a second generally upright
position, transverse to the rim of the toilet.
28. A method of using the seat riser apparatus of claim 1.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to riser apparatus for a seat,
the riser configured to raise the height of the seat. The present
invention also relates to a kit comprising a seat arrangement and
riser apparatus, to a seat arrangement having such a riser
apparatus and to the use of such riser apparatus. In particular,
but not exclusively, to riser apparatus for a toilet or toilet
seat.
[0002] Conventionally, toilets comprise a base unit, which may be
fixed to a wall and/or floor surface, and which comprises a toilet
basin surrounded by a rim and a toilet seat and lid hingedly
mounted to the top of the base unit to provide a more comfortable
and hygienic product than would be the case without a seat and lid.
The toilet seat is movable between a first position in which it
forms a seat providing a support platform for a user's buttocks
when seated on the toilet seat and generally rests on the rim of
the toilet basin; and a second generally upright position,
extending in a direction transverse to the plane of the rim of the
toilet seat, such that there is access by a user to the toilet
basin and rim without obstruction by the seat. In such an
arrangement, the toilet seat height is determined by the height of
the toilet rim upon which it is supported when the seat is in the
first position, this height being fixed for any given toilet. The
seat height is thus understood to be the combined height of the
toilet rim, the thickness of the toilet seat and the height of any
intermediate support member or members. Where a toilet seat is not
present, as is the custom in some countries, the seat height may be
considered to be the height of the rim alone.
[0003] Various users, including the elderly, infirm, injured or
otherwise facing mobility or health challenges, such as arthritis,
may have difficulty in lowering themselves down to sit on a
conventional toilet and/or in standing up from a seated position on
a toilet. This may be due to the low seat height of conventional
toilets but such difficulty may also exist for furniture such as
chairs or the like. Such users may therefore find themselves
needing assistance from either another person or support object in
order to enable them to use existing toilet facilities. For many
people, the reliance on another person may be felt to be
embarrassing, demoralising, inconvenient and/or degrading, while a
support object, such as a booster seat, may be unstable, degrading,
timely and difficult to position before use and/or remove after use
as necessary for the toilet to be used by a user who is not
elderly, infirm, injured or otherwise disabled. Supports such as a
cane, walking stick, grab rail or the like may also be unhygienic,
especially after using a toilet, before an opportunity may be
afforded the user to wash their hands. Furthermore, the use of such
supports may require greater upper body or arm strength than the
user may possess.
[0004] There is therefore a need to provide a support that may be
utilised by a user to aid them in easily and effectively being able
to use a conventional toilet.
[0005] It may also be the case, that an injured, elderly and/or
otherwise infirm or mobility or health challenged person may often
feel embarrassed, ashamed or otherwise resentful of medical
apparatus and disability support devices. In particular, there may
be a reluctance to utilise devices such as grab rails and
conventional toilet booster seats which may be required to be
permanently fixed to a wall or toilet, which stand out from usual
bathroom fittings and which may be readily recognised as a support
device, marking the household out as having a user as being
injured, elderly and/or otherwise infirm or mobility or health
challenged. Moreover, the use of non-fixed devices such as canes,
or such fixed grips, may be dropped by a user after sitting and may
fall out of reach, thereby preventing the user from getting up from
the toilet.
[0006] Known devices, such as booster seat type devices may be
placed on a toilet to raise the height of the toilet to reduce the
height through which a user must lower and raise themselves to
utilise the toilet. However, such devices are bulky, cumbersome
devices, easily identified as a medical apparatus, and are thus
undignified. Furthermore, such devices are required to be removed
by a toilet user who does not require a raised height toilet, and
must then be stored, which may result in hygiene issues and/or be
an over medicalised-eyesore in a bathroom setting. The repeated
removal and re-instatement of a device between different toilet
users may also be impractical and time consuming. Furthermore,
depending on the ailment affecting the user, it may not be possible
for the user to attend to the removal or fixing of the device to or
from the toilet without help.
[0007] Alternatively, there exist specialised toilets configured to
be used by mobility and/or health challenged people. Such toilets
may have motorised components, obtrusive support rails and/or
harnesses which enable them to be used by an injured, elderly
and/or otherwise infirm or mobility or health challenged person.
However, such devices generally cannot be retrofitted to an
existing toilet, cannot be removed between users (which may be
desired where a toilet is to be used by more than one person, for
example in a family dwelling, hospital, care home, hotel or the
like), are clearly identifiable as a medical or disability support
device and are overly large and complex and are thus expensive.
[0008] The following has been devised with the foregoing in
mind.
SUMMARY
[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a seat riser apparatus for coupling to a seat
arrangement, said seat riser apparatus comprising a riser member
rotatably coupled to a seat component and, at an opposing end, the
riser member comprising a coupling arrangement for rotatably
coupling the riser member to a support component.
[0010] The riser member may take the form of a plate or other
surface configured to extend across any width of the seat
component. Preferably, the plate or surface may be configured to
extend across the whole width of the seat component or a
substantial portion thereof. For example, the riser member may
extend across at least 50% percent of the width of the seat
component, preferably at least 70% of the width of the seat
component, and particularly preferably, across at least 95% of the
width of the seat component. The plate or surface may be affixed to
the seat component and configured to couple to the support
component at one more discrete points or along an extended portion
of the plate or surface.
[0011] Alternatively, the riser member may take the form of a rod
or bar rotatably coupled to a seat component at one end and
comprising a coupling arrangement for rotatably coupling the riser
member to a support component at the other end. Optionally, more
than one such riser member may be utilised. For example, two or
three riser members may be utilised with a single seat, preferably
two. The provision of multiple riser members may improve the
reliability, stability and/or robustness of the device. In
addition, the maximum load which the apparatus can be subjected to
by a user without resulting in device failure may be increased.
Further, the use of multiple riser members may result in improved
aesthetics, for example by enabling a symmetric apparatus to be
produced. The provision of one or more a seat risers may enable
simultaneous linear and rotational movement of the seat component
relative to the support component.
[0012] Optionally, the one or more riser members, or any part or
component therefore may be provided with a cleanable cover for
hygiene purposes, such as a wipe clean cover. Such a cover may
optionally be removable.
[0013] In some embodiments, the seat riser apparatus further
comprises a support component rotatably coupled to the riser
member. The support component may be coupled to the riser member by
the coupling arrangement. Any suitable coupling arrangement may be
utilized, including but not limited to the use of screw fixings,
nails, bolts, glue, welding, pins, clips and the like.
[0014] In some embodiments, the seat riser apparatus may be
configured for use with a toilet. In such cases, the seat riser
apparatus may be a toilet seat wherein the support component may
form the lid of the toilet seat, or a part thereof, and the seat
component may form the toilet seat, or a part thereof. Thus, the
seat riser apparatus may provide a raiseable toilet seat. When
mounted on a toilet, the one or more seat risers may enable the
seat component to move linearly away from the rim of the toilet
while undergoing a rotational movement relative to the support
component. By linearly it shall be understood that the movement may
be resolved to have a linear component.
[0015] According to some embodiments, the riser member and/or
support component comprise one or more engagement portions
configured to engage a portion of the seat component. The
engagement portion may utilise direct or indirect engagement means.
Optionally, the one or engagement means may form part of the first
and/or second rotatable hinge portions.
[0016] In some embodiments the one or more engagement portions may
take the form of an additional rod and/or surface rotatably coupled
to the seat component at one end and comprising a coupling
arrangement for rotatably coupling the engagement portion to the
support component at the opposing end. Such engagement portions may
preferably be formed of a rigid non-deformable material in order to
maintain a maximum distance between the rearward edge of the seat
component and a portion of the support member.
[0017] According to some embodiments, the one or more engagement
portions may comprise one or more grooves, protrusions, pins or the
like. However, any known engagement means may be used, for example,
means utilizing magnets, flexible and/or stretchable materials or
the like.
[0018] According to some embodiments, the one or more engagement
portions may be configured to prevent over-rotation of the seat
component relative to the support component. Alternatively or in
addition, in some embodiments, the engagement portion may be
configured to prevent the displacement between the edge of the seat
component which rotates closest to the support component during
rotation from varying beyond a fixed parameter. Optionally, one
engagement element may be active in both preventing over-rotation
and undesirable displacements. However, in other options, multiple
engagement elements may be utilised to carry out the two tasks
separately.
[0019] Optionally, the displacement between the rearward edge of
the seat component, i.e. the edge which rotates closest to the
support component during rotation, is maintained within a range
from 0 cm to 10 cm throughout the achievable angle of rotation. The
achievable angle of rotation may be limited by the one or more
engagement portions and/or by the mounting of the device in
proximity to surfaces, walls and/or other fixtures and fittings.
Where the engagement portion comprises one or more rods and/or a
surface rotatably coupled to the seat component at one end and
comprising a coupling arrangement for rotatably coupling the
engagement portion to the support component at the opposing end,
the maximum displacement may be defined by the length of the rod
and/or surface measured between the two rotatable couplings.
[0020] Preferably, the variance in the displacement, may be less
than about 10 cm, less than about 5 cm, less than about 2 cm, less
than about 1 cm, less than about 0.5 cm or less than about 0.1 cm.
Particularly, preferably, the engagement member may enable the edge
of the seat component which rotates closest to the support
component during rotation to be maintained at the same distance
from the surface of the support component throughout the achievable
angle of rotation, within standard working tolerances of the
manufacturing process and the materials used, for example within a
tolerance of 0-3 mm. In some options the rearward edge may be
maintained within 1 cm, preferably within 0.5 cm of the support
component at all times during throughout the achievable angle of
rotation. For example, the rearward edge may maintain contact with
the support component throughout the achievable angle of rotation.
As such, the optimal position of the seat component may be ensured
when in the lowered position. For example, where the seat riser
apparatus is configured for use with a toilet, the seat component
may be optimally positioned directly atop, but vertically displaced
from the rim of the toilet.
[0021] By preventing over-rotation of the seat component, the one
or more engagement portions may enable the seat component to be
positioned substantially level. As such, the user may be provided
with a seat component which may be stably sat on without a risk of
sliding due to gravity. In this context, "substantially level" may
be understood encompass any slope from -5 degrees to +5 degrees
calculated relative to horizontal.
[0022] Alternatively and/or additionally, it may be desirable to
fix the seat component at an elevated height while maintaining a
gradient to the horizontal. For example, where a user has
difficulty moving from a fully seated to a standing position,
and/or for a user of short stature, it may be preferable to provide
a seat component which is elevated towards the rear of the seat
component (i.e. towards the support component), with the front of
the seat component tilted downwards. In such embodiments, an
additional fixing point may be provided to stabilise the seat
component at a desired angle prior to use and to prevent the
lowered front portion of seat component from continuing to rotate
when the force of a user sitting or resting thereupon is
applied.
[0023] Such an embodiment may provide a seat component which is
raised towards the rear of the seat component, thereby reducing the
need for the user to lower themselves fully to the height of a
standard toilet, while remaining accessible to users of a wide
variety of heights and mobilities.
[0024] The seat component may be releasably fixable at a single
gradient to the rim of the toilet. Any suitable fixing may be
utilised, including but not limited to the use of pins and/or
protrusions configured to prevent over-rotation of the seat
component, springs or the like. Alternatively, the fixing means may
enable the user to select a desired angle. Optionally, this may be
achieved by the use of multiple such fixing points or by a
ratchet-type system.
[0025] Optionally, the user may be able to select a seat angle from
+10 to -30 degrees from the plane of the toilet rim. Preferably,
the user may be able to select one or more seat angles from 0 to
-20 degrees from the plane of the toilet rim. For example, the user
may be able to select one or more angles from 0.degree., 5.degree.,
10.degree., 15.degree. and 20.degree.. Optionally, the one or more
engagement portions may enable the seat component to be rotated
relative to the support component through an angle of 0-90 degrees.
Alternatively, the one or more engagement portions may enable the
seat element to be rotated relative to the support component
through an angle greater than 90 degrees, for example, through an
angle of 0-100 degrees, 0-110 degrees or 0-120 degrees. Optionally,
the maximum angle of rotation enabled by the one or more engagement
portions may be optimised for the particular toilet design. For
example, a greater degree of rotation may be desired where the seat
riser apparatus is configured for use with a toilet having a
cistern hidden within a wall compared to a toilet having a cistern
mounted on a wall.
[0026] The provision of one or more engagement portions which are
configured to prevent over-rotation of the seat component relative
to the support member may negate the requirement for any further
components to support the seat component in the lowered position
when sat on by a user.
[0027] According to some embodiments, the riser member coupling to
the seat component may be positioned away from the edge of the seat
component configured to engage the one or more engagement
portions.
[0028] By off-setting the point of rotation of the seat element
from its rearward edge, the edge of the seat component is not
directly fixed to the support component, and is therefore free to
move linearly along an axis of the support component during
rotation. The distance through which this edge may travel during
rotation is limited by the distance between this edge of the seat
component and the coupling arrangement coupled to the seat
component. Optionally, this distance of travel may be from 1-30 cm,
and the distance between the rearward edge of the seat component
and the second hinge element may be from 1-20 cm. Preferably, the
distance between the rearward edge of the seat component and the
second hinge element may be from 5 to 10 cm.
[0029] According to some embodiments, the seat riser apparatus
comprises a second seat component, wherein the second seat
component is coupled to the support component and/or first seat
component by a single hinge mechanism configured to enable
rotational movement of the second seat relative to the support
component and/or first seat component without simultaneous linear
movement.
[0030] As such, when affixed to a toilet, a user is provided with
the choice of utilising the device to sit on a toilet seat at a
conventional height above the toilet using the second seat
component, or at a raised height using the first seat component,
without necessitating the removal of the device.
[0031] The second seat component may be a conventional toilet seat.
In additional, the second seat component may be rotatable away from
the rim of the toilet towards the support component and/or toilet
seat lid. This may aid in maintaining hygiene. For example, the
second seat component may be movable by a user in a conventional
manner to gain access to the toilet bowl either to clean the toilet
bowl or by male users who are able to stand while urinating and
thus do not require use of any seat component.
[0032] Accordingly to some embodiments, the first seat component
comprises one or more movable support elements. When such a seat
riser apparatus is affixed to a toilet, the one or more support
elements may be configured to contact the rim of a toilet and/or a
portion of the second seat component.
[0033] The provision of one or more support elements may prevent
over-rotation of the first seat component relative to the support
component and/or remove some of the strain from the double hinge
and/or one or more engagement portions which arises when a user is
sat upon the raised first seat component. As such, the device may
be more stable and/or sturdy. The provision of one or more supports
may therefore enable the device to be used by more heavyset users
and/or increase the usable lifetime of the device.
[0034] Optionally, the moveable support elements may be provided
with a means for varying their height. For example, the one or more
movable support elements may comprise a sprung or telescopic foot
component. The provision of a variable height movable support
element may be advantageous in maintaining the seat component at a
desired gradient. In particular, the provision of such a movable
support element may enable the seat component to be maintained in a
substantially horizontal position where the rim of the toilet may
not be horizontal, for example due to an uneven ground surface.
[0035] The provision of such a movable support element may also be
advantageous in embodiments in which the seat component is
configured to be positioned at a gradient to the horizontal or
where the gradient is selectable by a user.
[0036] The one or more support elements may have any suitable form.
Furthermore, they may be foldable or otherwise extendable and/or
retractable from a portion of the seat riser apparatus. As such,
the one or more support elements may be housed in an unobtrusive
and/or otherwise practical position when not in use, and
manipulated to a suitable position when required.
[0037] Optionally, the one or more support elements may be linked
to the first seat component such that rotation of the first seat
component relative to the support component, along with the
simultaneous linear movement of the first seat component relative
to the support component, also results in the extension and/or
positioning of the one or more support members ready for supportive
use. Alternatively or in addition, the user may be able to
manipulate the position of the one or more support members to
simultaneously deploy the first seat component from the support
component of the toilet seat. For example, unfolding or pulling on
the one or more support elements so as to place them in a support
position may simultaneously cause the first seat element to be
rotated away from the support component, whereby it may easily be
positioned for use by a user.
[0038] Accordingly to some embodiments, the seat riser apparatus
comprises a further coupling means for releasably coupling a
portion of the first seat component to the support component to
enable simultaneous rotation of the support component and seat
component without linear movement. Where the seat riser apparatus
is affixed to a toilet, the provision of such a coupling may allow
the first seat component and support component, i.e. lid, to be
simultaneously lifted to open the toilet to provide access to the
basin or second seat component. Preferably, the second seat
component may not be similarly coupled to the first seat component
and lid.
[0039] Such an arrangement may enable a user to lift the lid of the
toilet seat of the present invention in an analogous manner to a
conventional toilet, and be presented with a standard toilet seat
positioned across the basin ready for use. As such, the existence
of a further (first) seat component coupled to the lid may not be
immediately apparent to the user, preventing the toilet as a whole
from appearing over-medicalised.
[0040] Accordingly to some embodiments, the further coupling means
may comprise one or more magnets. However, it shall be understood
that clasps, clips and other known releasable coupling means may
also be used. Optionally, the further coupling means may comprise
an external clip, push button or the like. In such embodiments, the
user may be able to release the further coupling mechanism prior to
or during the lifting of the lid of the toilet seat so as to be
presented with the seat component in the raised position upon the
opening of the toilet lid. This may negate the need for the user to
perform additional actions to position the raised seat component
ready for use.
[0041] Optionally, the configuration of the one or more engagement
portions may maintain the seat component at a suitable distance
from the support component at all times so as to enable the seat
component to be lowered by the rotation of the support component
towards to the second seat component, thereby collapsing the seat
riser apparatus. This may enable the seat raiser apparatus to be
closed away upon the closing of the toilet lid without the need for
the user to first touch or the seat component and/or perform any
additional actions. In such embodiments, the collapsing of the seat
riser apparatus in this manner may result in the re-fastening of
the further coupling means.
[0042] Thus, the seat riser apparatus may be positioned for use
and/or put away by the simple action of opening and/or closing a
toilet seat in a conventional manner. This provides a convenient,
easy to use apparatus. In addition, by removing the need to touch
any component other than the lid, a hygienic apparatus may be
provided.
[0043] Optionally, the seat riser apparatus may be comprise a
dampening mechanism configured to provide a "soft-closure" to one
or more aspects of the apparatus. For example, where the seat riser
apparatus comprises a support component, optionally in the form of
a lid, the support component or lid may comprise a dampening
mechanism configured to impede the rotation of the support element
towards the seat component. This may enable the seat riser to be
collapsed and/or stowed in a controlled manner which may reduce the
risk of injury to a user. The use of such a dampener may also
reduce the volume of any sounds associated with the collapsing of
the seat component, especially where the closure of the support
component and/or lid may be accelerated due to gravity. This may
aid in the user in being able to use the apparatus discretely.
[0044] Where the seat riser apparatus comprises a further second
seat component, the apparatus may alternatively or additionally
comprise a dampening mechanism configured to impede the rotation of
the support element and/or first seat component towards the second
seat component. This may provide similar safety and noise
advantages.
[0045] Any suitable dampening mechanism may be used including
automatic hinge closure mechanisms, sprung dampeners, viscous
and/or oil based dampeners, and other conventional soft-close
dampeners.
[0046] Accordingly to some embodiments, the first seat component
may comprise a graspable element configured to enable a user to
move the first seat component relative to the support component.
Such a graspable element may optionally form part of the one or
more support elements. The provision of a graspable element may
enable the user to pull the first seat component from the support
component, overcoming any releasable coupling means. Once the first
seat component has been positioned for use, the graspable element
may be positioned away from interior of the seat component. This
may be particularly beneficial when the seat riser apparatus is
configured for use with a toilet to reduce the risk of the
graspable element becoming contaminated with bodily fluids during
use. The provision of such a graspable element may therefore
provide a hygienic way for a use to manipulate the movement of the
first seat component.
[0047] Accordingly to some embodiments, the support component may
be configured to be capable of housing the first seat component.
For example, the support component may have a depth greater than
about 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, or 5 cm in order to enable it to
house the first seat component. Optionally, the support component
may also house one or more other components such as one or more
support elements or a second seat component. Optionally, the
support component may be configured to house all of the components
of the seat riser apparatus, apart from the support component
itself. Once housed in the support component, the components housed
therein may be unobservable to an external viewer. As such, where
the seat riser apparatus is configured for use with a toilet, the
lid may be of a suitable depth to house the first seat component,
and optionally any additional components such that the seat riser
apparatus of the present invention may provide a discreet raisable
toilet seat, which may not be immediately apparent to an observer
when not in a raised configuration.
[0048] The seat riser apparatus of the present invention can be
used to raise the height of a seat arrangement, such as a
conventional toilet, by any desirable height, i.e. the seat riser
apparatus of the present invention may provide any suitable linear
movement. Preferably, rotation of the seat component relative to
the support component through the maximum angle permitted by the
positioning of the seat riser apparatus and/or by the presence of
any engagement portions may enable the first seat element to be
raised by a height from 5-30 cm. Preferably, the height raised may
be from 5-20 cm, for example about 10 cm. In this context, the
height raised may be understood to be the height of the surface of
the first seat component configured to be sat on above the
alternative sitting surface afforded by the seat arrangement. For
example, the height of the rim of the toilet upon which the toilet
seat device is affixed or, where applicable, the height of the rim
of the toilet upon which the toilet seat device is affixed, plus
the depth of the second seat component (including any feet or
mountings thereof) upon which the first seat component may
rest.
[0049] Accordingly, in some embodiments, rotation of the first seat
component relative to the support component may result in a linear
movement of the seat component relative to the support component of
5-30 cm. Preferably, the linear movement may be from 5-20 cm, for
example about 10 cm.
[0050] According to some embodiments, the support component
comprises a back support element. The back support element may take
any form and be formed of any material. The back support element
may be positioned on a portion of the interior surface of the
support component and may provide a supportive surface to be leant
against by a user. Optionally, the support may be padded or
cushioned. Optionally, the back support may have a wipe-clean
surface so as to be hygienic.
[0051] Such supports may be of particular benefit for elderly,
infirm, injured or otherwise mobility or health challenged users
who may struggle to maintain themselves in an un-supported,
up-right sitting position.
[0052] It shall be understood the seat riser apparatus of the
present invention or parts thereof may be formed of any suitable
materials, including materials used in conventional toilet seats,
such as but not limited to, metals, plastics, wood, ceramics,
resins or the like, as well as from mixtures thereof, including,
for example but not limited to: polystyrene, polypropene
(polypropylene), acrylic polymers, melamine, maple, birch, and
bamboo. Preferably at least a portion of the seat riser apparatus
may comprise melamine.
[0053] Optionally, the seat riser apparatus of the present
invention may utilise one or more non-conventional materials, such
as one or more resiliently deformable materials such as a polymer
gel, foam or the like. Such materials may particularly be utilised
in the back support, where they may provide improved comfort,
and/or in the first (and optionally second) seat component where
they may provide a more comfortable sitting experience. Preferably,
where present in a seat component, such a resiliently deformable
material may be used only in the first seat component configured to
provide the raised sitting position. Such a material may be
particularly beneficial for users who are elderly, injured, infirm
or otherwise mobility or health challenged and who have joint pain,
such as hip pain, when sitting. Furthermore, when provided as part
of the first seat component only, the resiliently deformable
material may be unobtrusive to a user who does not utilise this
sitting surface.
[0054] Optionally, the seat riser apparatus, or parts thereof may
be at least partially covered with a non-slip surface.
[0055] Preferably, regardless of the materials used, the surface of
the seat riser apparatus may be wipe-clean. Optionally, a
wipe-clean surface may be applied to components of the seat riser
apparatus during its manufacture in the event that absorbent
materials form part of its construction. Wipe-clean surfaces may
include non-absorbent plastics, metals, ceramic and resins, as well
as varnishes and the like.
[0056] The seat riser apparatus of the present invention may be
affixed to a conventional seat, such as a toilet by any known
means. Alternatively, the seat riser apparatus may be formed
integrally with a seat arrangement.
[0057] Where the seat riser apparatus is configured for use with a
toilet, the seat riser apparatus may be screwed on to a
conventional toilet either from above or below. Optionally, the
toilet seat may be affixed by the provision of one or more sticky
pads, suction cups, clips, brackets or the like.
[0058] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a kit comprising a seat arrangement and a seat riser
apparatus according to any proceeding claim.
[0059] According to some embodiments, the seat arrangement may
comprise a toilet.
[0060] The toilet may be any toilet, including conventional 1 and 2
piece toilets wherein the cistern is mounted against or integrally
formed with the rear of the toilet basin, wall mounted toilets in
which the toilet may be mounted on a wall with a cistern hidden
inside the wall, and any other known toilet.
[0061] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a seat arrangement comprising a seat riser apparatus
according to the first aspect of the present invention.
[0062] According to some embodiments, the seat arrangement may
comprise a toilet.
[0063] Again, the toilet may be any form of toilet, including
conventional 1 and 2 piece toilets wherein the cistern is mounted
against or integrally formed with the rear of the toilet basin,
wall mounted toilets in which the toilet may be mounted on a wall
with a cistern hidden inside the wall, and any other known
toilet.
[0064] According to some embodiments, the seat riser apparatus is
configured to be rotatable between a first position substantially
parallel with a rim of the toilet and a second generally upright
position, transverse to the rim of the toilet.
[0065] It shall be understood that the rim of the toilet is
considered to be the rim of the toilet basin of a conventional
toilet, which is conventionally planar and level. As such, the
present invention provides a toilet seat which may be level in
order that the user is prevented from sliding off of the toilet
seat due to the existence of an undesired gradient.
[0066] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there
is provided the use of a seat riser apparatus according to the
first embodiment of the present invention, and/or the use of a seat
assembly, such as a toilet, comprising such a device.
[0067] For completeness, it is noted that, unless specifically
recited as the "second seat component", the term "seat component"
shall be understood as relating to the "first seat component".
LIST OF FIGURES
[0068] One or more embodiments in accordance with the present
disclosures will now be described, by way of reference only, and
with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0069] FIG. 1: depicts an illustration of a seat riser apparatus
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure configured for
use with a toilet, in which the support component and first seat
component have been simultaneously rotated away from the second
seat component.
[0070] FIG. 2: depicts an illustration the seat riser apparatus of
FIG. 1 in which the first seat component has been rotated away from
the support component towards the second seat component.
[0071] FIG. 3: depicts an illustration of the seat riser apparatus
of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration.
[0072] FIG. 4: depicts an illustration of the seat riser apparatus
of FIG. 1 positioned in an arrangement for fixing to a conventional
toilet.
[0073] FIG. 5: depicts an illustration of the seat riser apparatus
of FIGS. 1-4 in the closed position affixed to a conventional
toilet.
[0074] FIG. 6: depicts an illustration of the seat riser apparatus
of FIG. 5 in which the support component and first seat component
have been simultaneously rotated to open the toilet.
[0075] FIG. 7 depicts an illustration of an alternative embodiment
of the seat riser apparatus which utilises a rod-based actuator
configured for use with a toilet, in which seat component is
positioned in a raised state.
[0076] FIGS. 8A-E depict a series of side on illustrations of the
seat riser apparatus of FIG. 7 moving from a closed position to an
open position with the seat component simultaneously undergoing a
linear raising motion upon rotation of the support member to the
open position. It shall be understood that viewing these figures in
the reverse order may provide an illustration of stowing the same
apparatus after use.
[0077] FIG. 9 depicts an illustration of the seat riser apparatus
of FIG. 7 in which the first seat component is mounted within the
housing of the support component which has been rotated to an open
position to expose the second seat component.
[0078] FIG. 10 depicts an illustration of an embodiment of the seat
riser apparatus which utilises a rod-based actuator and which
additionally includes an actuator cover.
DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0079] FIG. 1 is an illustrative depiction of a seat riser
apparatus 1 according to the present invention, configured for use
with a toilet. The seat riser apparatus 1 comprises a support
component (lid) 2, first seat component 3, and second seat
component 4. However, it shall be understood that alternative
embodiments may be envisaged in which the second seat component 4
is omitted.
[0080] The first seat component 3 comprises a graspable tab 5 which
is configured to be gripped by the user in order to pull the first
seat component 3 away from the lid 2. The first seat component 3
also comprises two support elements 6. However, it shall be
envisaged that alternative embodiments may have any number of
support elements. Support elements 6 are integrally formed with or
connected to the graspable tab.
[0081] In use the user may grasp the graspable tab 5 to pull the
first seat component 3 from the interior of the lid 2. This causes
the first seat component 3 to be rotated relative to the lid 2, to
place the first seat component in a position for sitting on by a
user, as depicted in FIG. 2. During rotation, a simultaneous linear
movement of the seat component 3 relative to the lid 2 occurs, with
the seat component 3 rising upwards (based on the orientation
depicted) when the lid 2 and seat component 3 are rotated apart,
and moving downwards as the lid 2 and seat component are rotate
towards each other.
[0082] FIG. 2 depicts a riser member 7 which forms a double hinge
mechanism enabling the seat component 3 to simultaneously move
linearly with respect to the lid when rotating away from it. The
riser member 7 comprises a first rotatable coupling arrangement 8
connected to a portion of the lid 2 and a second rotatable coupling
arrangement 9 connected to a portion of the seat component 3. As
shown in FIG. 2, the first and second rotatable coupling
arrangements are displaced relative to each other, with the
rotatable coupling arrangement 8 being mounted distance further
removed from the edge 10 of the lid about which the lid is
configured to rotate when the toilet seat is affixed to the toilet,
than the second rotatable coupling arrangement 9. The second
rotatable coupling arrangement 9 is connected to the seat component
3 at a distance displaced from the edge 11 of the seat component
about which the seat is configured to rotate when affixed to the
toilet. This edge is housed within the lid 2 when the seat
component 3 is rotated relative to the lid, but is depicted in the
un-rotated view shown in FIG. 1.
[0083] To move the seat riser apparatus from the first conformation
depicted in FIG. 1 to the second conformation depicted in FIG. 2,
the user may grasp the graspable tab 5, pulling in an outward and
downward direction. This causes the riser member 7 to start to
rotate, with edge 11 being drawn upwards as the tab 5 is drawn
downwards. Engagement portions (not shown) may be present to
prevent the edge 11 from being pulled away from the lid to and/or
to prevent edge 11 from travelling more than a desired amount.
Support elements 6 may also prevent the edge 11 from travelling
more than a desired amount by inhibiting further rotation of the
seat component 3 once the seat component is in the desired
position. As depicted in FIG. 2, in the desired position, the seat
component 3 is substantially parallel with the second seat
component 4, and is positioned directly atop thereof but vertically
removed therefrom.
[0084] To rehouse the seat component within the lid, the user may
simply push the seat component 3 back up towards the lid.
Alternatively, the lid may be rotated downwards towards the seat
component 3. In doing so, the rotation results in a simultaneous
downwards linear motion of the seat component 3, enabling it to be
once more housed within the lid, as depicted in FIG. 3. Optionally,
the lid and/or seat component may include a further coupling means
(not shown), such as a magnet, such that when the lid is rotated
away from the second seat component 4, the first seat component 3
is simultaneously rotated away from the second seat component 4
with the lid 2. This may provide an easy way of enabling the user
to re-house the first seat component 3 within the lid 2 without
having to touch the first seat component 3, which may be
unhygienic.
[0085] The provision of such a seat riser apparatus 1, wherein the
riser member 7 comprises two rotatable couplings 8 and 9 (i.e. a
double hinge), enables the seat component to be elevated from the
rim of the toilet when in use, but to rotate downwards, relative to
the lid 2 of the toilet as the lid is rotated towards the seat
component. As such the seat component 3 is capable of being housed
within the lid 2 without protruding therefrom, and without
requiring the lid 2 to be oversized relative to the geometry of the
seat component 3, as would be required were the seat component 3 to
be mounted to the lid 2 using a convention mounting, such as a
single hinge, as a suitable position on the lid to provide an
elevated seating position.
[0086] As shown in FIG. 4, the seat riser apparatus of the present
invention is fixed to a toilet using standard connections 13.
However, it shall be envisaged that alternative connection means
may also be utilised.
[0087] FIGS. 5 and 6 depict a toilet seat of the present invention
affixed to a toilet 14. As shown in FIG. 5, when mounted on a
toilet 14 and in the closed position, the first seat component 3
may be un-observable to a user. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6,
when deployed, the first seat component may be vertically atop but
displaced therefrom the rim 12 of the toilet, with the displacement
between the second seat component 4 and the first seat component 3
being around 8-15 cm.
[0088] Accordingly, a seat riser apparatus 1 according to the first
aspect of the present invention therefore, and/or a kit or seat
arrangement according to the second and/or third aspect of the
present invention may provide a device which may be utilised by an
injured, elderly, infirm, and/or otherwise mobility or health
challenged person to aid them in being able to sit down and/or rise
from a seated position, optionally without the use of assistance
and/or other supportive aids, wherein the device may be discretely
hidden away when not in use. Advantageously, the seat arrangement
may also be able to be utilised by other users without utilising
the raised seat component without necessitating the removal of the
device from the seat arrangement.
[0089] In particular, where the seat riser apparatus is configured
to be affixed to a toilet, the toilet may be easily used either
with or without an elevated seat position. This may be of
particular benefit to multi-person households where different users
may wish to use the same toilet with and without a support aid. It
may also be of particular benefit where a toilet may be used by
guests who do not require the use of a support aid, and who might
be prompted to ask potentially awkward and/or embarrassing
questions of the household user when seeing an obvious medical or
disability support device, which may result in an infringement of
the user's privacy. Furthermore, the seat raiser apparatus
according to aspects of the invention provides a support device
which may be unobtrusively mounted on a toilet such that the toilet
may be conventionally used without having to first remove or
reposition the device, drawing adverse attention to its presence,
as depicted in FIG. 5
[0090] It will be appreciated that any of the optional features of
any of the embodiments described herein could also be provided with
one or more of any of the other embodiments described herein.
[0091] In embodiments according to FIGS. 1-6 the user may be
presented with the seat riser apparatus mounted on a toilet in a
collapsed position as depicted in FIG. 5. In use the user may lift
lid 2 in a conventional manner, with rotation about a rearward edge
11. When lifted, seat component 3 may be retained in connection
with the lid and thus simultaneously be rotated away from the
toilet and second seat component 4. This serves to expose the
second seat component to the user for conventional use of the
toilet.
[0092] To deploy the seat riser apparatus, the user grasps the
graspable tab 5 to pull the first seat component 3 from the
interior of the lid 2. As the seat component is pulled away from
the lid 2, the seat component pivots about its rearward edge 11. By
locating the rotatable coupling arrangement 9 at a location
displaced from the rearward edge of the seat component 3, movement
of the rearward edge of the seat component 3 necessarily includes a
liner component wherein the rearward edge shifts along a portion of
the lid 2 thereby raising the seat component away from the second
seat component 4. Thus, in use, rotational movement of seat
component 3 relative to the lid 2 results in an element of
simultaneous linear movement of the seat component 3 compared to
second seat component 4.
[0093] Graspable tab 5 is integrally formed with support elements
6. Thus, in use, when graspable tab 5 is pulled away from the seat
component 3, the support elements 6 are moved from a first position
against and/or at least partially recessed in or on the underside
of the seat component 3 to a second position configured to contact
the second seat component 4 and support the first seat component 3
in a raised position as shown in FIG. 2. In use, the support
members may prevent the raised seat component 3 from being brought
closer to the second seat component 4 without simultaneous
rotational movement of the lid 2 towards the first seat component
3, thereby preventing an undesired collapsing of the seat
component.
[0094] FIG. 7 depicts an alternative embodiment of the seat riser
apparatus 1 in which the riser member is a rod 27 which forms a
double hinge mechanism. The riser member 27 comprises a first
rotatable coupling arrangement 28 connected to a portion of the lid
22 which acts as the support component and a second rotatable
coupling arrangement 29 connected to a portion of the seat
component 23.
[0095] The embodiment shown comprises two units of the seat riser
apparatus, one mounted on each side of the seat around the central
void. However, it shall be appreciated that a single apparatus may
be sufficient.
[0096] As shown in FIG. 8A-8E, the lid 22 houses the seat component
23 when the seat component is in the collapsed state with the lid
22 closed. As lid 22 is raised, rotation of the riser member 27
enables the seat component 23 to simultaneously move along a linear
axis away from the second seat component 24 while moving
rotationally away from the lid 22. Further, a portion 35 of the
riser member 27 extends through seat component 23 and is rotatably
connected to a movable support element 26. This connection enables
the movable support elements to be deployed simultaneously with the
deployment of the seat component into its raised position. Thus,
the seat riser apparatus of FIG. 7 may be deployed from the first
conformation depicted in FIG. 8A to the second conformation
depicted in FIG. 7 by the raising of lid 22.
[0097] As depicted in FIG. 8E, the lid 22 may be rotated away from
the second seat component 24 by an angle greater than 90.degree. to
"lock" the engagement portion and prevent premature collapsing of
the seat and/or further rotation. However, it shall be appreciated
that the maximum angle of rotation may be varied depending on the
geometries of the raiser member 27, engagement portion 32 and/or
moveable seat components 26, with alternative maximum angles
envisaged.
[0098] In some embodiments, a further coupling (not shown) means
may be present to releasably retain the seat component 23 within or
in connection with the lid 22. The further coupling means may be a
push button or the like and may be accessible on an exterior
surface of the lid 22. When actuated, the further coupling
mechanism may release the second seat component 23 from the lid 22
to enable its deployment. In such embodiments, failure to actuate
the push button or the like may enable the lid 22 to be opened
without deployment of the seat component 23, in order that the
second seat component 24 may instead be accessible to a user.
[0099] To rehouse the seat component 23 within the lid 22, the user
may simply push the seat component 23 back up towards the lid.
Alternatively, the lid may be rotated downward towards the seat
component 23. In doing so, movable support elements 26 start to
collapse and seat component 23 is lowered until it is once more
housed within the lid 22, as depicted in FIG. 8A. This may provide
an easy way of enabling the user to re-house the first seat
component 23 within or in connection to the lid 22 without having
to touch the first seat component 23, which may be unhygienic.
[0100] Where a further coupling is present to releasably maintain
the seat component 23 within or in correction with the lid 22, this
may be automatically re-engaged upon the housing of the seat
component 23 within or in connection with the lid 22.
[0101] As shown in FIGS. 8A-E, the seat riser apparatus comprises
an engagement portion 32. The engagement portion 32 is a double
hinged rod rotatably coupled to the seat component 23 at one end 33
and rotatably coupled to the lid 22 at the opposing end 34, This
prevents movement of the rear edge 31 of the seat component 23 away
from the lid component 22 by any distance greater than that the
distance between the two rotational coupling points, and ensures
the optimal positioning of the seat component 23 when in a deployed
state ready for use. In addition, the engagement portion 32 may
prevent over rotation of the riser member by inhibiting further
rotation as depicted in FIG. 8E.
[0102] In addition, engagement portion 32 maintains seat component
23 at an optimal distance from the lid 22 to enable the seat
component 23 to be lowered when lid 22 is rotated towards the
second seat component so as to re-stow seat component 23 inside lid
22.
[0103] As shown in FIG. 9, the support members 26 are configured to
collapse when the seat component 23 is not deployed. To accommodate
the collapsed supports, the underside of seat 23 is provided with
channels configured to house the collapsed supports. As shown, when
housed the support members 26 form a flat surface level with the
remainder of the underside of the seat component 23. This may aid
in enabling efficient and effective cleaning of the apparatus for
hygiene purposes. In addition, this may improve the aesthetics of
the apparatus by making the supports and/or the seat component 23
less noticeable when the second seat component 24 is in use, along
with making the second seat component more accessible and
comfortable. It shall, however, be envisaged that the support
members 26, or parts thereof may be other than flush with the
underside of the seat component 23. For example, the support
members or parts thereof may be recessed compared to the underside
of seat 23 and/or protrude therefrom.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 10, a cover portion 33 is used to cover the
riser elements 27 when the first seat component is in use. In
addition to improving the aesthetics of the device, the provision
of such, may aid in maintaining a hygienic toilet by providing a
smooth surface for cleaning. In other embodiments, (not shown) the
cover may extend over a width other than that shown. For example,
two small covers may be provided, each extending over a single
riser element.
[0105] In use according to the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 7-10,
the user may be presented initially with the seat riser apparatus
mounted on a toilet in a collapsed position with the lid (support)
22 in a closed position so as to block access to the toilet. The
user may then elect to lift the lid 22 in a conventional manner to
expose the second seat 24.
[0106] Alternatively, the user may simultaneously deploy the first
seat component when opening lid 22. This may be achieved by the
pressing of a push release button (not shown) on an external
portion of the lid 22. When pressed, seat member 23 is free to
rotate independently from lid 22. In use, as the lid 22 is rotated
away from a released seat component 23, the rearward edge of seat
component 23 traverses a geometric path relative to a portion of
the lid 22 defined by the engagement portion 32, thereby raising
and supporting the rearward edge of the seat component, while
preventing the seat component from moving in an undesired path.
[0107] Simultaneously, in use, when lid 2 is lifted in a
conventional manner with rotational movement about the single hinge
36, the double hinge mechanism of the riser member 27
simultaneously deploys the hingedly connected support elements 26,
supporting seat component 23 in its deployed state. Thus, in use,
the support members may prevent the raised seat component 23 from
being brought closer to the second seat component 24 without
simultaneous rotational movement of the lid 22 towards the first
seat component 23, thereby preventing an undesired collapsing of
the seat component. Further, by over rotating the seat member 23
beyond a 90 degree angle to the support (lid) 22 as shown in FIG.
8E, the seat may become "locked" in use, whereby the exertion of a
downward force on the seat component 23 by a user biases the lid
away from the seat component 23.
[0108] In use, when the opened lid 22 (as depicted in FIGS. 8D and
8E) is rotated back toward the seat component 23, riser member 27
is drawn towards the lid 22 reducing the angle at the rotatable
coupling 28 until the seat component 23 is flush to the lid 22 as
depicted in FIG. 8A. At the same time, rotation of the engagement
portion 32 moves the rearward edge of seat component 23 along a set
geometric pathway which draws the rearward edge of seat component
23 closer to the single hinge 36, while the rotation at coupling 29
causes the support elements 26 to be collapsed.
[0109] As used herein any reference to "one embodiment" or "an
embodiment" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of the phrase
"in one embodiment" or the phrase "in an embodiment" in various
places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to
the same embodiment. In addition, it shall be understood that
features described in relation to one embodiment may optionally be
utilized with alternative embodiments or features thereof.
[0110] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising,"
"includes," "including," "has," "having" or any other variation
thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For
example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a
list of elements is not necessarily limited to only those elements
but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to
such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless
expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive or
and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is
satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B
is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is
true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).
[0111] In addition, use of the "a" or "an" are employed to describe
elements and components of the invention. This is done merely for
convenience and to give a general sense of the invention. This
description should be read to include one or at least one and the
singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is
meant otherwise.
[0112] In view of the foregoing description it will be evident to a
person skilled in the art that various modifications may be made
within the scope of the invention. For example, although an
embodiment has been described with reference to a toilet one or
more embodiments may be used with a chair or as part of a multiple
seating arrangement such as a sofa.
[0113] The scope of the present disclosure includes any novel
feature or combination of features disclosed therein either
explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof irrespective
of whether or not it relates to the claimed invention or mitigate
against any or all of the problems addressed by the present
invention. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be
formulated to such features during prosecution of this application
or of any such further application derived therefrom. In
particular, with reference to the appended claims, features from
dependent claims may be combined with those of the independent
claims and features from respective independent claims may be
combined in any appropriate manner and not merely in specific
combinations enumerated in the claims.
* * * * *