US20110073146A1 - Removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid - Google Patents
Removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110073146A1 US20110073146A1 US12/567,882 US56788209A US2011073146A1 US 20110073146 A1 US20110073146 A1 US 20110073146A1 US 56788209 A US56788209 A US 56788209A US 2011073146 A1 US2011073146 A1 US 2011073146A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- biasing
- outer shell
- tip
- walking aid
- shaft
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B9/00—Details
- A45B9/04—Ferrules or tips
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
- A61H3/0277—Shock absorbers therefor
- A61H2003/0283—Shock absorbers therefor using elastomeric material
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
- A61H3/0277—Shock absorbers therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
- A61H3/02—Crutches
- A61H3/0288—Ferrules or tips therefor
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to walking aids. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to walking aids such as canes, crutches, and walkers having removable shock absorbing tips configured to permit a shock absorbing biasing member of the tip to be visible to a user.
- FIG. 1A is a partially cut-away side elevation view of one embodiment of a walking aid, specifically a cane, having a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material.
- FIG. 1B is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a walking aid, specifically a crutch, having a removable shock absorbing tip with a window to view a biasing member such as a spring.
- FIG. 1C is a partially cut-away side elevation view of a portion of another embodiment of a walking aid, such as a walker, having a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material.
- FIG. 2A is a side elevation view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material permitting a biasing member such as a spring to be visible, the tip attached to a shaft of a walking aid.
- FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side-elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 2A .
- FIG. 2C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material permitting a biasing member such as a spring to be visible, the tip attached to a shaft of a walking aid.
- FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side-elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 2C .
- FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a spring as a biasing member.
- FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a spring as a biasing member.
- FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an elastomeric material as a biasing member.
- FIG. 3D is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a threaded shaft engaging member coupled to a biasing member made of an elastomeric material.
- FIG. 3E is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a threaded shaft engaging member, a fluid-filled cushion biasing member, and a window in the outer shell member.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a window in the outer shell through which to view a spring biasing member.
- FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 4A .
- FIG. 4C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent material to allow the spring biasing member to be visible.
- FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 4C .
- FIG. 4E is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a window in the outer shell through which to view a fluid-filled cushion biasing member.
- FIG. 4F is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 4E .
- FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an exposed spring biasing element.
- FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 5A .
- Certain individuals may require the assistance of a walking aid. Because these individuals rely on their walking aid to be able to walk, they may be motivated to customize the walking aid according to their individual preferences. For example, a hand grip of a walking aid may be exchanged with a customized grip, or a grip more to the user's liking. Similarly, the tip(s) of a walking aid may be exchanged to match the preferences of the user. For example, a user may prefer a hard or soft tip, a tip with a certain type of tread to provide traction and minimize slipping, a tip designed for icy or slippery conditions, or a tip designed for shock absorption. Moreover a user may prefer a different type of shock absorbing tips depending on the conditions.
- Tips for walking aids are not always readily distinguishable and it may be difficult to easily identify a desired tip when choosing among several options having subtly different features.
- the present disclosure addresses some of these issues by enabling a user to view the biasing member of a shock absorbing tip and thereby distinguish the tip from other tips.
- phrases “connected to,” “coupled to” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interaction.
- Two components may be coupled to each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other.
- two components may be coupled to each other through an intermediate component.
- FIG. 1A shows a partially cut-away side elevation view of a walking aid 100 , specifically a cane, coupled to a removable biasing tip 110 , a portion of which is made of transparent or translucent material, according to one embodiment.
- the biasing tip 110 may be configured for shock absorption to soften the impact of the tip and the walking aid with the ground.
- the walking aid 100 may comprise a handle 102 for grasping the walking aid and a shaft 104 coupled to the handle 102 and extending from the handle 102 toward the ground.
- Transparent material designates material that allows objects to be seen clearly through it.
- Translucent material designates material that allows light to pass through, but diffusing it so that objects beyond are not distinctly seen.
- Transparent or translucent material may be examples of a means for viewing a biasing means from the exterior of the outer shell member 116 . Other examples of means for viewing may include a window, a slit, a hole, a notch, or any opening in the outer shell member.
- the removable biasing tip 110 may comprise a biasing member 114 , an outer shell member 116 , and a slidably moveable member 115 .
- the outer shell 116 may further comprise a shaft engaging member 112 configured to engage the shaft 104 of the walking aid 100 , thereby coupling the removable biasing tip 110 to the shaft 104 .
- the shaft engaging member 112 may engage the shaft 104 through friction.
- engagement of the shaft may be accomplished by a coupling mechanism, such as a clip, a clamp, a detent, a button, or complementary threads. As illustrated in FIG.
- the outer shell member 116 may surround the biasing member so as to secure one end of the biasing member 114 against movement and also to secure the biasing member 114 in a position abutting with the slidably moveable member 115 .
- the outer shell member 116 may be wholly or partially formed of transparent or translucent material to permit the biasing member 114 to be visible.
- the biasing member 114 may be positioned within the outer shell member 116 around the shaft engaging member 112 .
- the slidably moveable member 115 may be adapted to be received within the outer shell member 116 , but outside of the shaft engaging member 112 , to abut against one end of the biasing member.
- the slidably moveable member 115 may be slidably moveable with respect to the outer shell member 116 and the shaft 104 to compress the biasing member.
- biasing member refers to a resilient or elastic component.
- a biasing member may be capable of providing a force in a particular direction and/or may be capable of returning to an original shape or position after having been compressed.
- a biasing member may be means for biasing a tip end of a walking aid against a force applied down a shaft of the walking aid.
- Exemplary biasing members, and biasing means include a coil spring or other spring, a compressible gas, a compressible liquid, a compressible solid, a compressible gel, a cushion filled with compressible gas, liquid or gel, an elastomeric material, etc.
- the biasing member 114 may be a spring.
- the outer shell member 116 is partially cut-away to more prominently show the spring biasing member 114 .
- the biasing member 114 may be a fluid-filled cushion or may be formed of an elastomeric material.
- the term fluid is intended to have its scientific meaning, and thus includes gas and liquid. Accordingly, a fluid-filled cushion can be filled with gas and/or liquid.
- Some elastomeric materials that may be used include but are not limited to rubber, resilient plastic, and gels.
- the slidably moveable member 115 may slide relative to the outer shell member 116 in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the shaft 104 of the walking aid. As a user applies force down the shaft 104 , the slidably moveable member 115 may slide within the outer shell member 116 , around the shaft engaging member 112 , to compress the biasing member 114 and thereby allow the biasing member to soften the impact of the tip 110 and walking aid 100 with the ground. Also, as illustrated, the slidably moveable member 115 may be configured to be received within the interior 120 of the hollow shaft 104 , such that a portion of the slidably moveable member 115 slides within the shaft 104 when compressing the biasing member 115 . The slidably moveable member 115 may further comprise a tread member 117 to provide the tip 110 with traction on the ground.
- the outer shell member 116 may be an example of means for covering the biasing means, which substantially encloses the biasing means.
- the slidably moveable member 115 may be an example of means for compressing the biasing means.
- FIG. 1B shows a side elevation view of another embodiment of a walking aid 100 B, specifically a crutch, coupled to a removable biasing tip 110 B that has a window 118 B through which to view a biasing member 114 B such as a spring.
- the walking aid of FIG. 1B comprises one or more handles 102 B, and a shaft 104 B, or one or more shafts coupled together to form a shaft 104 B, that extends from the one or more handles 102 B substantially toward the ground.
- the removable biasing tip 110 B may comprise a biasing member 114 B and an outer shell member 116 B.
- the outer shell member may be coupled to an inner shaft-engaging member 112 B that is slidably moveable within the outer shell member 116 B and configured to engage the shaft 104 B of the walking aid 100 B.
- the outer shell 116 B may surround the biasing member 114 B and couple the shaft engaging member 112 B and the biasing member 114 B. Because the shaft engaging member 112 B is slidably moveable within the outer shell member 116 B, the outer shell member 116 B can move with respect to the shaft 104 B when force is applied down the shaft 104 B.
- the outer shell member 116 B compresses the biasing member 114 B, thereby enabling the biasing member 114 B to absorb the force of impact of tip 110 B.
- the outer shell member 116 may be an example of means for compressing the biasing means.
- the outer shell member 116 B may include a window 118 B to permit the biasing member 114 B to be visible through the outer shell member 116 B.
- the biasing member 114 B may be a spring.
- the biasing member 114 B may be a fluid-filled cushion or may be formed of an elastomeric material.
- FIG. 1C shows a side elevation view of a portion of still another embodiment of a walking aid 100 C, such as a walker, coupled to a removable biasing tip 110 C made of transparent or translucent material.
- the walking aid of FIG. 1C may comprise one or more handles and a shaft 104 C, or one or more shafts coupled together to form a shaft 104 C, extending from the one or more handles toward the ground.
- the removable biasing tip 110 C may comprise a biasing member 114 C, and an outer shell member 116 C. The outer shell may surround the biasing member 114 C and couple together the tip end of shaft 104 C and the biasing member 114 C.
- the outer shell member 116 C may be formed of transparent or translucent material to permit the biasing member 114 C to be visible through the outer shell member 116 C. Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1B , the outer shell 116 C of the removable biasing tip 110 may move with respect to the shaft 104 C to enable the biasing member 114 C to absorb and soften the shock of impact.
- FIG. 2A is a side view of a removable shock absorbing tip 210 coupled to a shaft 204 of a walking aid, according to one embodiment.
- the shock absorbing tip 210 comprises an outer shell member 216 formed of transparent or translucent material, a biasing member 214 viewable through the outer shell member 216 , and a slidably moveable member 215 .
- the slidably moveable member 215 may further comprise a tread member 217 to provide the tip 210 with traction on the ground.
- FIG. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view of the removable shock absorbing tip 210 of FIG. 2A attached to the shaft 204 of a walking aid.
- the cross section is taken along plane A-A as indicated in FIG. 2A .
- the outer shell member 216 may further comprise a shaft engaging member 212 to engage the shaft 204 of a walking aid.
- the cross-sectional view illustrates the slidably moveable member 215 being received, and slidably moveable, within the outer shell member 216 and abutting with the biasing member 214 .
- the slidably moveable member 215 moves with respect to the outer shell member 216 to compress the biasing member 214 and thereby enable the biasing member 214 to absorb and soften force of impact of the tip 210 with the ground or other surface.
- a slidably moveable member 215 can be slidably moveable within the outer shell member 216 and thereby move with respect to the outer shell member 216 and the shaft 204 to compress the biasing member 214 when pressure is applied down the shaft.
- the compression of the biasing member 214 enables absorption of the shock of impact of the tip 210 with the ground or other surface.
- FIG. 2C depicts a perspective view of a removable shock absorbing tip 210 C coupled to a shaft 204 C of a walking aid, according to another embodiment.
- the shock absorbing tip 210 C may comprise a shaft engaging member 212 C, an outer shell member 216 C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasing member 214 C viewable through the outer shell member 216 C.
- the shaft engaging member 212 C is slidably moveable within the outer shell member 216 C.
- the outer shell member 216 C can move with respect to the shaft engaging member to compress the biasing member 214 C and thereby enable the biasing member 214 C to absorb and soften the force of impact of the tip 210 C with the ground or other surface.
- FIG. 2D depicts a cross-sectional view of the removable shock absorbing tip 210 C of FIG. 2C attached to a shaft 204 C of a walking aid.
- the cross section is taken along the plane B-B as indicated in FIG. 2C .
- the cross-sectional view illustrates that the embodiment may comprise a shaft engaging member 212 C, an outer shell member 216 C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasing member 214 C.
- the biasing member 214 C may be a spring.
- FIG. 2D also portrays the outer shell member 216 C coupling the shaft engaging member 212 C in abutment with the biasing member 214 C.
- the shaft engaging member 212 C may be slidably moveable within the outer shell member 216 , thereby compressing the biasing member 214 C when pressure is applied and allowing the biasing member 214 C to absorb the shock of impact.
- the shaft engaging member 212 C may not be slidably moveable with respect to the outer shell member 216 C. There may be not be any slidably moveable member. Rather, the outer shell member 216 C may be formed of a flexible material that collapses when pressure is applied. The outer shell member 216 C may collapse when force is applied down the shaft 204 C, such as when the user of a waking aid applies pressure to the walking aid for stability and support. When the outer shell member 216 C collapses, the biasing member 214 C may compress to absorb a portion of the shock of impact and the force applied.
- FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a removable shock absorbing tip 310 having a spring as a biasing member, according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 3A depicts the different components of the removable shock absorbing tip 310 , including but not limited to an outer shell member 316 , a biasing member 314 , a slidably moveable member 315 and a tread member 317 .
- a shaft 304 of a walking aid is also depicted.
- the outer shell member 316 may further comprise a shaft engaging member 312 configured to engage the shaft 304 to attach the removable shock absorbing tip to the walking aid.
- the shaft engaging member 312 may be integrally coupled to the outer shell 316 , as depicted in FIG. 3A .
- the outer shell member 316 is configured to secure one end of the biasing member 314 and also secure the slidably moveable member 315 in abutment with the biasing member 314 .
- the outer shell member 316 may be formed of a transparent or translucent material so as to permit the biasing member 314 to be visible through the outer shell member 316 .
- the slidably moveable member 315 is configured to be positioned within the outer shell member 316 and slidably movable with respect to the outer shell member 316 .
- the slidably moveable member 315 may be positioned to slidably move around the shaft engaging member 312 .
- the slidably moveable member 315 may move with respect to the outer shell 316 so as to compress the biasing member 315 .
- the biasing member 314 may be a spring.
- FIG. 3B is an exploded view of a removable shock absorbing tip 310 B having a spring as a biasing member, according to one embodiment.
- FIG. 3B depicts the different components of the shock absorbing tip 310 B including but not limited to an outer shell member 316 B, a biasing member 314 B, and a shaft engaging member 312 B.
- a shaft 304 B of a walking aid is depicted.
- the shaft engaging member 312 B may be configured to engage the shaft 304 B to attach the removable shock absorbing tip to the walking aid.
- the outer shell member 316 B is configured to hold the shaft engaging member 312 B in abutment with the biasing member 314 B.
- the shaft engaging member may be configured to function like a piston, such that it is partially received by, and slidably moveable within, the outer shell member 316 B and can compress the biasing member 314 B.
- the outer shell member 316 B may be formed of a transparent or translucent material so as to permit the biasing member 314 B to be visible through the outer shell member 316 B. As depicted in FIG. 3A , the biasing member 314 B may be a spring.
- FIG. 3C is an exploded view of another embodiment of a shock absorbing tip 310 C having a biasing member comprising a compressible piece of material.
- the embodiment is similar to that of FIG. 3B , comprising an outer shell member 316 C, a biasing member 314 C, and a shaft engaging member 312 C that is slidably moveable within the outer shell member 316 C. Also depicted is a shaft 304 C of a walking aid.
- the biasing member 314 C of the present embodiment may be formed of an elastomeric material, such as rubber, resilient plastic, or gel.
- FIG. 3D is an exploded view of still another embodiment of a shock absorbing tip 310 D with a threaded shaft engaging member coupled to a biasing member made of an elastomeric material.
- the shaft engaging member 312 D of the illustrated embodiment may comprise threads 317 D.
- the shaft engaging member 312 may be formed together with a biasing member 314 D, the two permanently connected or integrated, and slidably moveable within outer shell member 316 D.
- Threads 317 D are an example of a means for engaging a shaft of a walking aid.
- Other examples of means for engaging a shaft of a walking aid may include an elastomeric material configured to tightly grip the shaft, a detent, hooks and loops, a button, or other fastener.
- FIG. 3E is an exploded view of still another embodiment of a shock absorbing tip 310 E comprising a threaded shaft engaging member 312 E, a fluid-filled cushion as a biasing member 314 E, and a window 318 E in the outer shell member 316 E through which to view the biasing member 314 E.
- the fluid-filled cushion biasing member 314 E may be filled with air.
- the fluid-filled cushion biasing member 314 E may be filled with a gel or other liquid.
- the biasing member may be a spring or elastomeric material.
- the shock absorbing tip 310 E of FIG. 3E may comprise a shaft engaging member 312 E that may be formed as an integrated part of the outer shell member 316 E. Because the shaft engaging member 312 E is integrated with the outer shell member 316 E, the shaft engaging member 312 E is not slidably moveable with respect to the outer shell member 316 E. No slidably moveable component is present. Rather, the outer shell member 316 E may be formed of a flexible material that gives way when pressure is applied. The outer shell member 316 E may give way when force is applied down the shaft, such as when the user of a walking aid applies pressure to the walking aid for stability and support. As the outer shell member 316 E gives way under the applied force, the biasing member 314 E may compress to absorb a portion of the shock of impact from and force being applied.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip 410 with a window to permit the spring to be visible.
- the embodiment may comprise an outer shell member 416 that may be at least partially formed of transparent or translucent material, a window 418 in the outer shell member, a biasing member 414 viewable through the window 418 of the outer shell member 416 , a slidably moveable member 415 , and a tread member 417 .
- FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the same embodiment of a shock absorbing tip 410 shown in FIG. 4A .
- the cross-section is taken along the plane C-C as indicated in FIG. 4A .
- the cross-sectional view illustrates that the outer shell member 416 is adapted to engage a shaft of a walking aid.
- the outer shell member 416 may further comprise a shaft engaging member 412 to accomplish that objective.
- the biasing member 414 may be disposed within the outer shell member 414 around the inner shaft engaging member 412 .
- a slidably moveable member 415 is adapted to be received around the inner shaft engaging member, but within the outer shell member 416 , so as to abut with the biasing member.
- the slidably moveable member may further comprise a tread member 417 .
- the slidably moveable member 415 moves with respect to the shaft engaging member 412 of the outer shell member 416 to compress the biasing member 414 and thereby absorb the force of impact.
- the biasing member 414 may be a spring.
- FIG. 4C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip 410 C made of transparent material to make the spring visible.
- the removable shock absorbing tip 410 C may comprise an outer shell member 416 C at least partially formed of transparent or translucent material and a biasing member 414 C viewable through the outer shell member 416 C, and a shaft engaging member 412 C that is slidably moveable within outer shell member 416 C.
- FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the shock absorbing tip 410 C shown in FIG. 4C .
- the cross-sectional view is taken along the plane D-D as indicated in FIG. 4C .
- the cross-sectional view reveals that the shock absorbing tip 410 C comprises a shaft engaging member 412 C, an outer shell member 416 C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasing member 414 C.
- the biasing member 414 C may be a spring.
- FIG. 4D also illustrates the outer shell member 416 coupling the shaft engaging member 412 in abutment with the biasing member 414 .
- FIG. 4E is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip 410 E having an outer shell member with a window to permit the fluid-filled cushion biasing member to be visible through the outer shell.
- the removable shock absorbing tip 410 E is shown not attached to any walking aid.
- the removable shock absorbing tip 410 E may comprise a shaft engaging member 412 E, and a biasing member 414 E, an outer shell member 416 E, and a window 418 E to permit the biasing member 414 E to be viewable through the outer shell member 416 E.
- the window 418 E in the outer shell member 416 E may be formed of transparent or translucent material.
- the outer shell member 416 E may be formed of an opaque material.
- the window 418 E allows a user to view the biasing element 414 E and more readily distinguish the embodiment from other removable tips for walking aids.
- FIG. 4F is a cut-away side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip 410 E of FIG. 4E .
- the cross-sectional view is taken along the plane E-E as shown in FIG. 4E .
- the removable shock absorbing tip 410 E comprises a shaft engaging member 412 E, an outer shell member 416 E, and a biasing member 414 E formed of elastomeric material.
- the biasing member 414 F may be a fluid-filled cushion.
- the removable shock absorbing tip 410 E may have, in addition to the window 418 E, an outer shell member 416 E made of transparent material to make the biasing member visible.
- FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an exposed spring biasing element.
- FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable shock absorbing tip of FIG. 5A . The cross-section is taken along plane F-F as indicated in FIG. 5A .
- the removable shock absorbing tip 510 comprises a shaft engaging member 512 , an outer shell member 516 , and a biasing member 514 .
- the biasing member 514 is a spring coiled around the shaft engaging member 512 and positioned above the outer shell member 516 .
- the biasing member 514 is in abutment at one end with a top rim 518 of the outer shell member 516 and in abutment at another end with a collar 520 positioned at or near the top of the shaft engaging member 512 . Until a force is applied to the shaft engaging member 512 , the spring biasing member 514 may be in an uncompressed state. The spring biasing member 514 biases the collar 520 of the shaft engaging member away from the top rim 518 of the outer shell member 516 .
- the shaft engaging member 512 is at least partially received by and slidably moveable within a cavity of the outer shell 516 .
- the shaft engaging member 512 moves relative to the outer shell 516 in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of a shaft to which the shaft engaging member 512 may be coupled.
- the shaft engaging member 512 may slide along a one or more tracks 522 formed along the inside of the cavity of the outer shell member 516 , as shown in FIG. 5B .
- the one or more tracks 522 may comprise a combination of one or more grooves and/or protrusions that mate with a combination of one or more corresponding protrusions and/or grooves respectively formed on an outer surface of the shaft engaging member 512 .
- the tracks 522 may be configured to prevent the outer shell member 516 from rotating about the shaft engaging member 512 .
- the tracks 522 may be further configured to engage the outer shell member 516 to the shaft engaging member 512 to prevent the shaft engaging member 512 from fully withdrawing from the cavity of the outer shell member 516 .
- a stop 524 may also be positioned within the cavity of the outer shell 516 to prevent the shaft engaging member 512 from being pushed too far into the cavity of the outer shell 516 . The stop 524 may ensure that the spring biasing element is not over-compressed, or otherwise damaged.
- the stop 524 may also serve to ensure that the spring biasing element 514 remains properly positioned around the shaft engaging member 512 and between the collar 518 of the shaft engaging member 512 and the top rim 518 of the outer shell member 512 .
- the shaft engaging member 512 slides further into the outer shell member 516 .
- the collar 520 of the shaft engaging member 512 also moves closer to the top rim 518 of the outer shell member 516 , thereby compressing the spring biasing member 514 .
- the spring biasing member 514 can absorb the shock of impact of the tip 510 and the walking aid with the ground.
- the impact of the tip 510 with the ground is softened.
- the spring biasing member 514 biases the collar 520 of the shaft engaging member 512 away from the outer shell member 516 and into position to soften the shock of a subsequent impact of the tip 510 with the ground.
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Abstract
A removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid. The tip may be comprised of a shaft engaging member for connecting the tip to the shaft of a walking aid, an outer shell, and a biasing member. The biasing member may disposed within the outer shell in abutment with the shaft engaging member. The biasing member may also be disposed around the shaft engaging member and in abutment with the outer shell. The biasing member may be a spring, a fluid-filled cushion, or a member formed of elastomeric material. The outer shell may be formed of transparent or translucent material to permit the biasing member to be visible to a user for ease of identification.
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to walking aids. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to walking aids such as canes, crutches, and walkers having removable shock absorbing tips configured to permit a shock absorbing biasing member of the tip to be visible to a user.
- The embodiments disclosed herein will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only typical embodiments, which will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1A is a partially cut-away side elevation view of one embodiment of a walking aid, specifically a cane, having a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material. -
FIG. 1B is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a walking aid, specifically a crutch, having a removable shock absorbing tip with a window to view a biasing member such as a spring. -
FIG. 1C is a partially cut-away side elevation view of a portion of another embodiment of a walking aid, such as a walker, having a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material. -
FIG. 2A is a side elevation view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material permitting a biasing member such as a spring to be visible, the tip attached to a shaft of a walking aid. -
FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side-elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 2A . -
FIG. 2C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent or translucent material permitting a biasing member such as a spring to be visible, the tip attached to a shaft of a walking aid. -
FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side-elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 2C . -
FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a spring as a biasing member. -
FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a spring as a biasing member. -
FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an elastomeric material as a biasing member. -
FIG. 3D is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a threaded shaft engaging member coupled to a biasing member made of an elastomeric material. -
FIG. 3E is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a threaded shaft engaging member, a fluid-filled cushion biasing member, and a window in the outer shell member. -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a window in the outer shell through which to view a spring biasing member. -
FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 4A . -
FIG. 4C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip made of transparent material to allow the spring biasing member to be visible. -
FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 4C . -
FIG. 4E is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having a window in the outer shell through which to view a fluid-filled cushion biasing member. -
FIG. 4F is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 4E . -
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an exposed spring biasing element. -
FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 5A . - Certain individuals may require the assistance of a walking aid. Because these individuals rely on their walking aid to be able to walk, they may be motivated to customize the walking aid according to their individual preferences. For example, a hand grip of a walking aid may be exchanged with a customized grip, or a grip more to the user's liking. Similarly, the tip(s) of a walking aid may be exchanged to match the preferences of the user. For example, a user may prefer a hard or soft tip, a tip with a certain type of tread to provide traction and minimize slipping, a tip designed for icy or slippery conditions, or a tip designed for shock absorption. Moreover a user may prefer a different type of shock absorbing tips depending on the conditions. Tips for walking aids, however, are not always readily distinguishable and it may be difficult to easily identify a desired tip when choosing among several options having subtly different features. The present disclosure addresses some of these issues by enabling a user to view the biasing member of a shock absorbing tip and thereby distinguish the tip from other tips.
- It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described and illustrated in the Figures herein could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, as represented in the Figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of various embodiments. While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.
- The phrases “connected to,” “coupled to” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interaction. Two components may be coupled to each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other. For example, two components may be coupled to each other through an intermediate component.
-
FIG. 1A shows a partially cut-away side elevation view of a walkingaid 100, specifically a cane, coupled to aremovable biasing tip 110, a portion of which is made of transparent or translucent material, according to one embodiment. The biasingtip 110 may be configured for shock absorption to soften the impact of the tip and the walking aid with the ground. The walkingaid 100 may comprise ahandle 102 for grasping the walking aid and ashaft 104 coupled to thehandle 102 and extending from thehandle 102 toward the ground. - “Transparent material,” as used herein, designates material that allows objects to be seen clearly through it. “Translucent material,” as used herein, designates material that allows light to pass through, but diffusing it so that objects beyond are not distinctly seen. Transparent or translucent material may be examples of a means for viewing a biasing means from the exterior of the
outer shell member 116. Other examples of means for viewing may include a window, a slit, a hole, a notch, or any opening in the outer shell member. - In one embodiment, the
removable biasing tip 110 may comprise a biasingmember 114, anouter shell member 116, and a slidablymoveable member 115. Theouter shell 116 may further comprise ashaft engaging member 112 configured to engage theshaft 104 of the walkingaid 100, thereby coupling theremovable biasing tip 110 to theshaft 104. As depicted inFIG. 1A , theshaft engaging member 112 may engage theshaft 104 through friction. In another embodiment, engagement of the shaft may be accomplished by a coupling mechanism, such as a clip, a clamp, a detent, a button, or complementary threads. As illustrated inFIG. 1A , theouter shell member 116 may surround the biasing member so as to secure one end of the biasingmember 114 against movement and also to secure the biasingmember 114 in a position abutting with the slidablymoveable member 115. Theouter shell member 116 may be wholly or partially formed of transparent or translucent material to permit the biasingmember 114 to be visible. - The biasing
member 114 may be positioned within theouter shell member 116 around theshaft engaging member 112. The slidablymoveable member 115 may be adapted to be received within theouter shell member 116, but outside of theshaft engaging member 112, to abut against one end of the biasing member. The slidablymoveable member 115 may be slidably moveable with respect to theouter shell member 116 and theshaft 104 to compress the biasing member. - A “biasing member” refers to a resilient or elastic component. A biasing member may be capable of providing a force in a particular direction and/or may be capable of returning to an original shape or position after having been compressed. A biasing member may be means for biasing a tip end of a walking aid against a force applied down a shaft of the walking aid. Exemplary biasing members, and biasing means, include a coil spring or other spring, a compressible gas, a compressible liquid, a compressible solid, a compressible gel, a cushion filled with compressible gas, liquid or gel, an elastomeric material, etc.
- As depicted in
FIG. 1A , the biasingmember 114 may be a spring. InFIG. 1A , theouter shell member 116 is partially cut-away to more prominently show thespring biasing member 114. In other embodiments, the biasingmember 114 may be a fluid-filled cushion or may be formed of an elastomeric material. As used herein, the term fluid is intended to have its scientific meaning, and thus includes gas and liquid. Accordingly, a fluid-filled cushion can be filled with gas and/or liquid. Some elastomeric materials that may be used include but are not limited to rubber, resilient plastic, and gels. - The slidably
moveable member 115 may slide relative to theouter shell member 116 in a direction along a longitudinal axis of theshaft 104 of the walking aid. As a user applies force down theshaft 104, the slidablymoveable member 115 may slide within theouter shell member 116, around theshaft engaging member 112, to compress the biasingmember 114 and thereby allow the biasing member to soften the impact of thetip 110 and walkingaid 100 with the ground. Also, as illustrated, the slidablymoveable member 115 may be configured to be received within theinterior 120 of thehollow shaft 104, such that a portion of the slidablymoveable member 115 slides within theshaft 104 when compressing the biasingmember 115. The slidablymoveable member 115 may further comprise atread member 117 to provide thetip 110 with traction on the ground. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 1A , theouter shell member 116 may be an example of means for covering the biasing means, which substantially encloses the biasing means. The slidablymoveable member 115 may be an example of means for compressing the biasing means. -
FIG. 1B shows a side elevation view of another embodiment of a walkingaid 100B, specifically a crutch, coupled to aremovable biasing tip 110B that has awindow 118B through which to view a biasingmember 114B such as a spring. The walking aid ofFIG. 1B comprises one ormore handles 102B, and ashaft 104B, or one or more shafts coupled together to form ashaft 104B, that extends from the one ormore handles 102B substantially toward the ground. - The
removable biasing tip 110B may comprise a biasingmember 114B and anouter shell member 116B. The outer shell member may be coupled to an inner shaft-engagingmember 112B that is slidably moveable within theouter shell member 116B and configured to engage theshaft 104B of the walkingaid 100B. Theouter shell 116B may surround the biasingmember 114B and couple theshaft engaging member 112B and the biasingmember 114B. Because theshaft engaging member 112B is slidably moveable within theouter shell member 116B, theouter shell member 116B can move with respect to theshaft 104B when force is applied down theshaft 104B. Theouter shell member 116B compresses the biasingmember 114B, thereby enabling the biasingmember 114B to absorb the force of impact oftip 110B. Thus, in this embodiment, theouter shell member 116 may be an example of means for compressing the biasing means. - The
outer shell member 116B may include awindow 118B to permit the biasingmember 114B to be visible through theouter shell member 116B. As depicted inFIG. 1B , the biasingmember 114B may be a spring. In other embodiments, the biasingmember 114B may be a fluid-filled cushion or may be formed of an elastomeric material. -
FIG. 1C shows a side elevation view of a portion of still another embodiment of a walkingaid 100C, such as a walker, coupled to aremovable biasing tip 110C made of transparent or translucent material. The walking aid ofFIG. 1C may comprise one or more handles and ashaft 104C, or one or more shafts coupled together to form ashaft 104C, extending from the one or more handles toward the ground. Theremovable biasing tip 110C may comprise a biasingmember 114C, and an outer shell member 116C. The outer shell may surround the biasingmember 114C and couple together the tip end ofshaft 104C and the biasingmember 114C. The outer shell member 116C may be formed of transparent or translucent material to permit the biasingmember 114C to be visible through the outer shell member 116C. Similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 1B , the outer shell 116C of theremovable biasing tip 110 may move with respect to theshaft 104C to enable the biasingmember 114C to absorb and soften the shock of impact. -
FIG. 2A is a side view of a removableshock absorbing tip 210 coupled to ashaft 204 of a walking aid, according to one embodiment. Theshock absorbing tip 210 comprises anouter shell member 216 formed of transparent or translucent material, a biasingmember 214 viewable through theouter shell member 216, and a slidablymoveable member 215. The slidablymoveable member 215 may further comprise atread member 217 to provide thetip 210 with traction on the ground. -
FIG. 2B depicts a cross-sectional view of the removableshock absorbing tip 210 ofFIG. 2A attached to theshaft 204 of a walking aid. The cross section is taken along plane A-A as indicated inFIG. 2A . As illustrated by the cross-section, theouter shell member 216 may further comprise ashaft engaging member 212 to engage theshaft 204 of a walking aid. The cross-sectional view illustrates the slidablymoveable member 215 being received, and slidably moveable, within theouter shell member 216 and abutting with the biasingmember 214. When a force is exerted down theshaft 204, the slidablymoveable member 215 moves with respect to theouter shell member 216 to compress the biasingmember 214 and thereby enable the biasingmember 214 to absorb and soften force of impact of thetip 210 with the ground or other surface. - As depicted by
FIGS. 2A and 2B , in one embodiment, a slidablymoveable member 215 can be slidably moveable within theouter shell member 216 and thereby move with respect to theouter shell member 216 and theshaft 204 to compress the biasingmember 214 when pressure is applied down the shaft. The compression of the biasingmember 214 enables absorption of the shock of impact of thetip 210 with the ground or other surface. -
FIG. 2C depicts a perspective view of a removableshock absorbing tip 210C coupled to ashaft 204C of a walking aid, according to another embodiment. Theshock absorbing tip 210C may comprise ashaft engaging member 212C, anouter shell member 216C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasingmember 214C viewable through theouter shell member 216C. Theshaft engaging member 212C is slidably moveable within theouter shell member 216C. Thus, theouter shell member 216C can move with respect to the shaft engaging member to compress the biasingmember 214C and thereby enable the biasingmember 214C to absorb and soften the force of impact of thetip 210C with the ground or other surface. -
FIG. 2D depicts a cross-sectional view of the removableshock absorbing tip 210C ofFIG. 2C attached to ashaft 204C of a walking aid. The cross section is taken along the plane B-B as indicated inFIG. 2C . The cross-sectional view illustrates that the embodiment may comprise ashaft engaging member 212C, anouter shell member 216C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasingmember 214C. As depicted inFIG. 2D , the biasingmember 214C may be a spring.FIG. 2D also portrays theouter shell member 216C coupling theshaft engaging member 212C in abutment with the biasingmember 214C. - As depicted by
FIGS. 2C and 2D , in one embodiment theshaft engaging member 212C may be slidably moveable within theouter shell member 216, thereby compressing the biasingmember 214C when pressure is applied and allowing the biasingmember 214C to absorb the shock of impact. - In another embodiment, the
shaft engaging member 212C may not be slidably moveable with respect to theouter shell member 216C. There may be not be any slidably moveable member. Rather, theouter shell member 216C may be formed of a flexible material that collapses when pressure is applied. Theouter shell member 216C may collapse when force is applied down theshaft 204C, such as when the user of a waking aid applies pressure to the walking aid for stability and support. When theouter shell member 216C collapses, the biasingmember 214C may compress to absorb a portion of the shock of impact and the force applied. -
FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a removable shock absorbing tip 310 having a spring as a biasing member, according to one embodiment.FIG. 3A depicts the different components of the removable shock absorbing tip 310, including but not limited to an outer shell member 316, a biasing member 314, a slidably moveable member 315 and a tread member 317. Also depicted is a shaft 304 of a walking aid. The outer shell member 316 may further comprise a shaft engaging member 312 configured to engage the shaft 304 to attach the removable shock absorbing tip to the walking aid. The shaft engaging member 312 may be integrally coupled to the outer shell 316, as depicted inFIG. 3A . Furthermore, in one embodiment, the outer shell member 316 is configured to secure one end of the biasing member 314 and also secure the slidably moveable member 315 in abutment with the biasing member 314. The outer shell member 316 may be formed of a transparent or translucent material so as to permit the biasing member 314 to be visible through the outer shell member 316. The slidably moveable member 315 is configured to be positioned within the outer shell member 316 and slidably movable with respect to the outer shell member 316. The slidably moveable member 315 may be positioned to slidably move around the shaft engaging member 312. When a force is applied down the shaft 304, the slidably moveable member 315 may move with respect to the outer shell 316 so as to compress the biasing member 315. As depicted inFIG. 3A , the biasing member 314 may be a spring. -
FIG. 3B is an exploded view of a removable shock absorbing tip 310B having a spring as a biasing member, according to one embodiment.FIG. 3B depicts the different components of the shock absorbing tip 310B including but not limited to an outer shell member 316B, a biasing member 314B, and a shaft engaging member 312B. Also depicted is a shaft 304B of a walking aid. The shaft engaging member 312B may be configured to engage the shaft 304B to attach the removable shock absorbing tip to the walking aid. Furthermore, in the depicted embodiment the outer shell member 316B is configured to hold the shaft engaging member 312B in abutment with the biasing member 314B. The shaft engaging member may be configured to function like a piston, such that it is partially received by, and slidably moveable within, the outer shell member 316B and can compress the biasing member 314B. The outer shell member 316B may be formed of a transparent or translucent material so as to permit the biasing member 314B to be visible through the outer shell member 316B. As depicted inFIG. 3A , the biasing member 314B may be a spring. -
FIG. 3C is an exploded view of another embodiment of ashock absorbing tip 310C having a biasing member comprising a compressible piece of material. The embodiment is similar to that ofFIG. 3B , comprising anouter shell member 316C, a biasingmember 314C, and ashaft engaging member 312C that is slidably moveable within theouter shell member 316C. Also depicted is ashaft 304C of a walking aid. The biasingmember 314C of the present embodiment may be formed of an elastomeric material, such as rubber, resilient plastic, or gel. -
FIG. 3D is an exploded view of still another embodiment of ashock absorbing tip 310D with a threaded shaft engaging member coupled to a biasing member made of an elastomeric material. Theshaft engaging member 312D of the illustrated embodiment may comprisethreads 317D. The shaft engaging member 312 may be formed together with a biasingmember 314D, the two permanently connected or integrated, and slidably moveable withinouter shell member 316D.Threads 317D are an example of a means for engaging a shaft of a walking aid. Other examples of means for engaging a shaft of a walking aid may include an elastomeric material configured to tightly grip the shaft, a detent, hooks and loops, a button, or other fastener. -
FIG. 3E is an exploded view of still another embodiment of ashock absorbing tip 310E comprising a threadedshaft engaging member 312E, a fluid-filled cushion as a biasingmember 314E, and awindow 318E in theouter shell member 316E through which to view the biasingmember 314E. In one embodiment, the fluid-filledcushion biasing member 314E may be filled with air. In another embodiment, the fluid-filledcushion biasing member 314E may be filled with a gel or other liquid. In other embodiments, the biasing member may be a spring or elastomeric material. - The
shock absorbing tip 310E ofFIG. 3E may comprise ashaft engaging member 312E that may be formed as an integrated part of theouter shell member 316E. Because theshaft engaging member 312E is integrated with theouter shell member 316E, theshaft engaging member 312E is not slidably moveable with respect to theouter shell member 316E. No slidably moveable component is present. Rather, theouter shell member 316E may be formed of a flexible material that gives way when pressure is applied. Theouter shell member 316E may give way when force is applied down the shaft, such as when the user of a walking aid applies pressure to the walking aid for stability and support. As theouter shell member 316E gives way under the applied force, the biasingmember 314E may compress to absorb a portion of the shock of impact from and force being applied. -
FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a removableshock absorbing tip 410 with a window to permit the spring to be visible. The embodiment may comprise anouter shell member 416 that may be at least partially formed of transparent or translucent material, awindow 418 in the outer shell member, a biasingmember 414 viewable through thewindow 418 of theouter shell member 416, a slidablymoveable member 415, and atread member 417. -
FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the same embodiment of ashock absorbing tip 410 shown inFIG. 4A . The cross-section is taken along the plane C-C as indicated inFIG. 4A . The cross-sectional view illustrates that theouter shell member 416 is adapted to engage a shaft of a walking aid. Theouter shell member 416 may further comprise ashaft engaging member 412 to accomplish that objective. The biasingmember 414 may be disposed within theouter shell member 414 around the innershaft engaging member 412. A slidablymoveable member 415 is adapted to be received around the inner shaft engaging member, but within theouter shell member 416, so as to abut with the biasing member. The slidably moveable member may further comprise atread member 417. As depicted inFIG. 4B , the slidablymoveable member 415 moves with respect to theshaft engaging member 412 of theouter shell member 416 to compress the biasingmember 414 and thereby absorb the force of impact. The biasingmember 414 may be a spring. -
FIG. 4C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removableshock absorbing tip 410C made of transparent material to make the spring visible. The removableshock absorbing tip 410C may comprise anouter shell member 416C at least partially formed of transparent or translucent material and a biasingmember 414C viewable through theouter shell member 416C, and ashaft engaging member 412C that is slidably moveable withinouter shell member 416C. -
FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side elevation view of theshock absorbing tip 410C shown inFIG. 4C . The cross-sectional view is taken along the plane D-D as indicated inFIG. 4C . The cross-sectional view reveals that theshock absorbing tip 410C comprises ashaft engaging member 412C, anouter shell member 416C formed of transparent or translucent material, and a biasingmember 414C. As depicted inFIG. 4D , the biasingmember 414C may be a spring.FIG. 4D also illustrates theouter shell member 416 coupling theshaft engaging member 412 in abutment with the biasingmember 414. -
FIG. 4E is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removableshock absorbing tip 410E having an outer shell member with a window to permit the fluid-filled cushion biasing member to be visible through the outer shell. The removableshock absorbing tip 410E is shown not attached to any walking aid. The removableshock absorbing tip 410E may comprise ashaft engaging member 412E, and a biasingmember 414E, anouter shell member 416E, and awindow 418E to permit the biasingmember 414E to be viewable through theouter shell member 416E. Thewindow 418E in theouter shell member 416E may be formed of transparent or translucent material. Theouter shell member 416E may be formed of an opaque material. Thewindow 418E allows a user to view thebiasing element 414E and more readily distinguish the embodiment from other removable tips for walking aids. -
FIG. 4F is a cut-away side elevation view of the removableshock absorbing tip 410E ofFIG. 4E . The cross-sectional view is taken along the plane E-E as shown inFIG. 4E . The removableshock absorbing tip 410E comprises ashaft engaging member 412E, anouter shell member 416E, and a biasingmember 414E formed of elastomeric material. In another embodiment, the biasing member 414F may be a fluid-filled cushion. In still another embodiment, the removableshock absorbing tip 410E may have, in addition to thewindow 418E, anouter shell member 416E made of transparent material to make the biasing member visible. -
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a removable shock absorbing tip having an exposed spring biasing element.FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional perspective view of the removable shock absorbing tip ofFIG. 5A . The cross-section is taken along plane F-F as indicated inFIG. 5A . The removableshock absorbing tip 510 comprises ashaft engaging member 512, anouter shell member 516, and a biasingmember 514. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasingmember 514 is a spring coiled around theshaft engaging member 512 and positioned above theouter shell member 516. The biasingmember 514 is in abutment at one end with atop rim 518 of theouter shell member 516 and in abutment at another end with acollar 520 positioned at or near the top of theshaft engaging member 512. Until a force is applied to theshaft engaging member 512, thespring biasing member 514 may be in an uncompressed state. Thespring biasing member 514 biases thecollar 520 of the shaft engaging member away from thetop rim 518 of theouter shell member 516. - The
shaft engaging member 512 is at least partially received by and slidably moveable within a cavity of theouter shell 516. Theshaft engaging member 512 moves relative to theouter shell 516 in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of a shaft to which theshaft engaging member 512 may be coupled. Theshaft engaging member 512 may slide along a one ormore tracks 522 formed along the inside of the cavity of theouter shell member 516, as shown inFIG. 5B . The one ormore tracks 522 may comprise a combination of one or more grooves and/or protrusions that mate with a combination of one or more corresponding protrusions and/or grooves respectively formed on an outer surface of theshaft engaging member 512. Thetracks 522 may be configured to prevent theouter shell member 516 from rotating about theshaft engaging member 512. Thetracks 522 may be further configured to engage theouter shell member 516 to theshaft engaging member 512 to prevent theshaft engaging member 512 from fully withdrawing from the cavity of theouter shell member 516. Astop 524 may also be positioned within the cavity of theouter shell 516 to prevent theshaft engaging member 512 from being pushed too far into the cavity of theouter shell 516. Thestop 524 may ensure that the spring biasing element is not over-compressed, or otherwise damaged. Furthermore, by preventing over insertion of theshaft engaging member 512 into the cavity of theouter shell member 516, thestop 524 may also serve to ensure that thespring biasing element 514 remains properly positioned around theshaft engaging member 512 and between thecollar 518 of theshaft engaging member 512 and thetop rim 518 of theouter shell member 512. - As a force is applied down a shaft of a walking aid and is transferred to the
shaft engaging member 512, theshaft engaging member 512 slides further into theouter shell member 516. Thecollar 520 of theshaft engaging member 512 also moves closer to thetop rim 518 of theouter shell member 516, thereby compressing thespring biasing member 514. In this manner, thespring biasing member 514 can absorb the shock of impact of thetip 510 and the walking aid with the ground. The impact of thetip 510 with the ground is softened. When the force down the shaft is removed, thespring biasing member 514 biases thecollar 520 of theshaft engaging member 512 away from theouter shell member 516 and into position to soften the shock of a subsequent impact of thetip 510 with the ground. - While specific embodiments of walking aids and removable tips for walking aids have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the invention claimed hereinafter is not limited to the precise configuration and components disclosed. Various modifications, changes, and variations apparent to those of skill in the art may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the apparatus disclosed.
- Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can use the preceding description to utilize the present disclosure to its fullest extent. The examples and embodiments disclosed herein are to be construed as merely illustrative and exemplary and not a limitation of the scope of the present disclosure in any way. It will be apparent to those having skill in the art that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the invention as claimed hereinafter. In other words, various modifications and improvements of the embodiments specifically disclosed in the description above are within the scope of the appended claims. Note that elements recited in means-plus-function format are intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. §112 ¶6.
Claims (22)
1. A walking aid apparatus comprising:
a walking aid configured to provide support to a user who applies pressure thereon, the walking aid comprising:
a handle by which a user can grasp the walking aid; and
a shaft extending from the handle toward the ground, the shaft having a handle end and a tip end;
a biasing tip removably coupled to the tip end of the shaft of the walking aid, the biasing tip comprising:
a biasing member to provide shock-absorption for the walking aid; and
an outer shell member configured to abut with the biasing member, to couple the biasing member to the shaft of the walking aid, the outer shell member cooperating with the biasing member, such that the biasing member is visible to a user.
2. The walking aid apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the biasing tip further comprises a slidably moveable member configured to be partially received and slidably moveable within the outer shell member, wherein the slidably moveable member abuts against one end of the biasing member and moves with respect to the outer shell as the biasing member compresses.
3. The walking aid apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the outer shell member of the biasing tip secures the biasing member in abutment with the slidably moveable member.
4. The walking aid apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the slidably moveable member moves with respect to the shaft of the walking aid.
5. The walking aid apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the slidably moveable member comprises a shaft engaging member and remains stationary with respect to the shaft of the walking aid.
6. The walking aid apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the shaft engaging member comprises a collar positioned at a first end of the shaft engaging member and a second end of the shaft engaging member is slidably received within the outer shell member, and
wherein the biasing member is disposed around a portion of the shaft engaging member and in abutment with the collar of the shaft engaging member and in abutment with a top rim of the outer shell member.
7. The walking aid apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the slidably moveable member comprises a piston configured to be partially received by, and slidably moveable within, the outer shell member.
8. The walking aid apparatus of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the outer shell member is made of transparent or translucent material.
9. The walking aid apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the biasing member of the biasing tip is selected from: a spring, an elastomeric material or a fluid-filled cushion.
10. A biasing tip for a walking aid comprising:
a shaft engaging member configured to removably couple the biasing tip to a shaft of a walking aid;
a biasing member to provide shock-absorption for the walking aid, wherein one end of the biasing member abuts a portion of the shaft engaging member; and
an outer shell member abutting the biasing member and engaging the shaft engaging member, the outer shell member configured secure the biasing member in abutment with the shaft engaging member and to permit the biasing member to be visible.
11. The biasing tip of claim 10 , wherein the shaft engaging member comprises a collar positioned at a first end of the shaft engaging member and a second end of the shaft engaging member is slidably received within the outer shell member, and
wherein the biasing member is disposed around a portion of the shaft engaging member and in abutment with the collar of the shaft engaging member and in abutment with a top rim of the outer shell member.
12. The biasing tip of claim 11 , further comprising a slidably moveable member configured to be partially received and slidably moveable within the outer shell member, wherein the slidably moveable member abuts against the biasing member and moves with respect to the outer shell as the biasing member compresses.
13. The biasing tip of claim 11 , wherein the biasing member is disposed within the biasing tip, and wherein the outer shell member surrounds the biasing member.
14. The biasing tip of claim 13 , wherein a portion of the outer shell member is made of transparent or translucent material.
15. The biasing tip of claim 11 , wherein a portion of the outer shell member further comprises a window configured to permit the biasing member to be visible from the exterior of the outer shell member.
16. The biasing tip of claim 11 , wherein the biasing member is selected from: a spring, an elastomeric material, or a fluid-filled cushion.
17. A biasing tip for a walking aid comprising:
a biasing member to provide shock-absorption for the walking aid;
an outer shell member configured to abut and secure one end of the biasing member; and
a slidably moveable member configured to be partially received and slidably moveable within the outer shell member, wherein the slidably moveable member abuts against one end of the biasing member and moves with respect to the outer shell as the biasing member compresses to absorb shock and soften a force of impact caused by the biasing tip contacting a surface;
wherein the biasing tip is configured to be removable from the shaft of the walking aid.
18. The biasing tip of claim 17 , wherein the slidably moveable member comprises a piston configured to be partially received within the outer shell member.
19. The biasing tip of claim 18 , wherein the slidably moveable member is integrated with a shaft engaging member configured to couple the biasing tip to a shaft of a walking aid.
20. The biasing tip of claim 17 , wherein the biasing member is disposed within the biasing tip, the outer shell member substantially enclosing the biasing member and configured to permit the biasing member to be visible from the exterior of the outer shell member.
21. The biasing tip of claim 17 , wherein the biasing member is disposed around a portion of the slidably moveable member and in abutment with a portion of the slidably moveable member.
22. A biasing tip for a walking aid comprising:
an outer shell member;
means for biasing a tip end of a walking aid against a force applied down a shaft of a walking aid to provide shock-absorption for the walking aid;
means for compressing the biasing means, wherein the compressing means is slidably moveable with respect to the outer shell member, and wherein the compressing means abuts against the biasing means to compress it against the outer shell member and thereby soften the force of impact,
wherein the biasing tip is configured removable from the shaft of the walking aid.
Priority Applications (1)
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US12/567,882 US20110073146A1 (en) | 2009-09-28 | 2009-09-28 | Removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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US12/567,882 US20110073146A1 (en) | 2009-09-28 | 2009-09-28 | Removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid |
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US20110073146A1 true US20110073146A1 (en) | 2011-03-31 |
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US12/567,882 Abandoned US20110073146A1 (en) | 2009-09-28 | 2009-09-28 | Removable shock absorbing tip for a walking aid |
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Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN103202756A (en) * | 2013-04-03 | 2013-07-17 | 昆山千寻金属制品有限公司 | Shock-absorbing crutch |
US20150059816A1 (en) * | 2012-04-26 | 2015-03-05 | Kyung-Won Kim | Hiking Stick |
WO2016128229A1 (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2016-08-18 | Lekisport Ag | Pole having a tip spring mechanism |
US9737121B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2017-08-22 | 3C Automation, Inc. | Adaptive pivoting and impact reduction tip assembly for walking aids |
US9955760B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2018-05-01 | 3C Automation, Inc. | Adaptive pivoting and impact reduction tip assembly for walking aids |
US10898406B2 (en) | 2019-03-01 | 2021-01-26 | John McAteer | Collapsable safety cane with shock absorbing feature |
IT202100007946A1 (en) * | 2021-03-31 | 2022-10-01 | Tompoma S R L | CUSHIONED WALKING ASSISTANCE DEVICE |
US11832693B2 (en) | 2021-11-30 | 2023-12-05 | Jornal Kevin Miller | Shock-absorbing cane tip apparatus |
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US5810038A (en) * | 1996-08-28 | 1998-09-22 | Carpin Manufacturing, Inc. | Medical walker foot with collapsible tip |
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US1817829A (en) * | 1930-03-07 | 1931-08-04 | William H Lanning | Crutch attachment |
US2116730A (en) * | 1936-06-12 | 1938-05-10 | Ernest L Menton | Crutch |
US2528706A (en) * | 1946-08-13 | 1950-11-07 | George E Osborn | Extensible crutch |
US2449509A (en) * | 1947-02-24 | 1948-09-14 | Sidney H Richards | Nonskid device for crutches and the like |
US2569739A (en) * | 1947-08-26 | 1951-10-02 | Knute G A Thunberg | Swiveling rocker crutch |
US2675014A (en) * | 1952-07-03 | 1954-04-13 | William H Powers | Shock absorbing crutch tip |
US3825275A (en) * | 1971-11-03 | 1974-07-23 | E Klemm | Ski pole |
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Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20150059816A1 (en) * | 2012-04-26 | 2015-03-05 | Kyung-Won Kim | Hiking Stick |
CN103202756A (en) * | 2013-04-03 | 2013-07-17 | 昆山千寻金属制品有限公司 | Shock-absorbing crutch |
US10646012B2 (en) | 2015-02-13 | 2020-05-12 | Lekisport Ag | Pole having a tip spring mechanism |
CN107223028A (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2017-09-29 | 雷克体育公众有限公司 | Walking stick with tip spring assembly |
KR20170116053A (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2017-10-18 | 레키스포르트 아게 | Pole with tip spring mechanism |
JP2018511357A (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2018-04-26 | レキスポルト アーゲー | Pole with tip spring mechanism |
RU2692331C2 (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2019-06-24 | Лекиспорт Аг | Stick equipped with tip with spring mechanism |
WO2016128229A1 (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2016-08-18 | Lekisport Ag | Pole having a tip spring mechanism |
KR102599905B1 (en) * | 2015-02-13 | 2023-11-07 | 레키스포르트 아게 | Pole with tip spring mechanism |
US9737121B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2017-08-22 | 3C Automation, Inc. | Adaptive pivoting and impact reduction tip assembly for walking aids |
US9955760B2 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2018-05-01 | 3C Automation, Inc. | Adaptive pivoting and impact reduction tip assembly for walking aids |
US10898406B2 (en) | 2019-03-01 | 2021-01-26 | John McAteer | Collapsable safety cane with shock absorbing feature |
IT202100007946A1 (en) * | 2021-03-31 | 2022-10-01 | Tompoma S R L | CUSHIONED WALKING ASSISTANCE DEVICE |
US11832693B2 (en) | 2021-11-30 | 2023-12-05 | Jornal Kevin Miller | Shock-absorbing cane tip apparatus |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: STANDER, INC., UTAH Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MILLER, F. TROY;REEL/FRAME:023777/0453 Effective date: 20100112 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |