CA2082115A1 - Cane with extendable/retractable spike - Google Patents
Cane with extendable/retractable spikeInfo
- Publication number
- CA2082115A1 CA2082115A1 CA 2082115 CA2082115A CA2082115A1 CA 2082115 A1 CA2082115 A1 CA 2082115A1 CA 2082115 CA2082115 CA 2082115 CA 2082115 A CA2082115 A CA 2082115A CA 2082115 A1 CA2082115 A1 CA 2082115A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- orthopaedic
- assistance device
- mobility assistance
- support means
- trigger
- 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
Links
Classifications
-
- 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
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B9/00—Details
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
- A45B9/00—Details
- A45B2009/005—Shafts
- A45B2009/007—Shafts of adjustable length, e.g. telescopic shafts
Landscapes
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
- Walking Sticks, Umbrellas, And Fans (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
An orthopaedic mobility assistance device, comprising first support means; handle means connected to the first support means; trigger means mounted to the handle means, the trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position; second support means connected to the first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from the ground engaging portion to contact the walking surface with increased gripping action than the ground engaging portion, and retracting within the ground engaging portion when the increased gripping action is not required; and connecting means between the trigger means and the retractable spike means for protruding the spike means from the ground engaging portion in response to the trigger means being moved to the first position and retracting the spike means into the ground engaging portion in response to the trigger means being moved to the second position.
An orthopaedic mobility assistance device, comprising first support means; handle means connected to the first support means; trigger means mounted to the handle means, the trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position; second support means connected to the first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from the ground engaging portion to contact the walking surface with increased gripping action than the ground engaging portion, and retracting within the ground engaging portion when the increased gripping action is not required; and connecting means between the trigger means and the retractable spike means for protruding the spike means from the ground engaging portion in response to the trigger means being moved to the first position and retracting the spike means into the ground engaging portion in response to the trigger means being moved to the second position.
Description
~ o ~
CANE WITH EXTENDABLE/RETRACTABLE SPIKE
Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to walking aids, and more particularly to an adjustable length walking cane with retractable spike.
Backqround of the Invention Every year, hundreds of thousands of people, including seniors and those with physical disabilities, suffer severe injuries as a result of slipping on ice, snow, wet grass, mud, leaves, etc. A large number of such accidents have been known to occur even when a person has been walking with a cane.
Prior art walking canes have been devised to address the aforenoted problems. For example, United States Patent 3,448,749 (Stark) discloses a cane with retractable spikes connected to a finger operated actuating lever via a pivot device. A similar device is disclosed in United States Patent 2,682,275 (Eyrich) wherein the spike is trigger operated and spring loaded.
In addition to the known prior art canes with retractable spikes, adjustable length canes are also known. Such canes normally are provided with a telescoping shaft with aligned holes through the inner and outer shafts and suitable fastening means such as a spring pin for securing the telescoping tubes in predetermined orientation to establish the length of the cane.
It is not believed to be known in the prior art to provide a cane with both adjustable overall length, and retractable spike or other ground engaging anti-slip mechanism.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invention, an adjustable length cane is provided in combination with a trigger-operated, internally disposed spike. The cane of the present invention is characterized by an orthopedically ; shaped handle for placing the user's hand directly over the weight supporting shaft to ensure balance and comfort. The handle incorporates a plurality of structural ribs for spreading the weight load on the g ~
handle and directing the load toward the centre of the cane shaft. An ergonomically placed trigger is provided for activating the internal spike mechanism so that when the spike is activated the trigger lies flush with the S handle. A novel internal structure is provided for accommodating both overall length adjustment of the cane in combination with the retractable spike function.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an orthopaedic mobility assistance device, comprising:
a) first support means;
b) handle means connected to said first support means;
c) trigger means mounted to said handle means, said trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position, d) second support means connected to said first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
e) retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from said ground engaging portion to contact said walking surface with increased gripping action than said ground engaging portion, and retracting within said ground engaging portion when said increased gripping action is not required; and f) connecting means between said trigger means and said retractable spike means for protruding said spike means from said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said first position and retracting said spike means into said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said second position.
Brief Description of the Drawings A detailed description of the preferred embodiment is provided herein below with reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows an adjustable length cane with ;, ~2~5 retractable spikes in accordance with the preferred embodiment;
Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view of the handle portion of the cane with trigger retracted into the handle portion;
Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of a ground engaging portion of the cane with projecting retractable spike;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cane according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures 5A and 5B are detailed schematic views showing operation of the trigger mechanism according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures ~A and 6B are detailed cross-sectional views showing a ground engaging portion of the cane and operation of the retractable spike, according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures 7A and 7B are detailed cross-sectional views showing length adjusting means according to the present invention; and Fiqure 8 is a perspective view showing the structure and operation of the retractable spike according to the preferred embodiment.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment The outward appearance of the height adjustable cane according to the present invention is shown with reference to Figures }-3. The cane comprises handle portion 1 connected to a first support member 5. A
second support member 7 is secured in telescopic : 30 arrangement with the first support member 5 and is provided with a ground engaging portion 9 at the base thereof. According to the preferred embodiment, the ground engaging portion 9 comprises a rubber boot which houses a retractable spike 11 (Figure 3). The retractable spike 11 is operated by means of a trigger mechanism 13 so that in the position shown in Figure 1, the spike 11 is retracted within the ground engaging ,' portion 9, and upon moving the trigger mechanism 13 into the position shown from Figure 2, the spike 11 is caused to project or protrude from the ground engaging portion 9. .
~ wrist strap 15 is provided for ease of carrying the cane when climbing stairs, or for hanging the cane by a coat peg, etc.
The handle portion 1 preferably comprises a first generally oblong portion 17 oriented substantially perpendicular to the first support member 5. A second portion 19 of the handle 1 extends co-axially with the first support member 5 and arcs slightly to a rounded apex 21. A reduced diameter portion 23 is provided intermediate the first generally oblong portion 17 and the second portion 19. The reduced diameter portion 23 is positioned over the first support member 5.
Turning to Figures 4 and 8, the internal structure of the cane is illustrated. Within the handle 1, a triangulated rib structure is provided for spreading weight load applied to the handle and directing the weight load to the centre of the shaft of the cane.
Specifically, the internal supporting rib structure comprises a central rib 25 extending from a distal end of the first generally oblong portion 17 centrally therethrough to a surface of the second portion 19 opposite the distal end. The second central rib 27 extends from a distal end of the second portion 19 adjacent the reduced diameter portion 23 centrally through the second portion toward the first support member 5. The first central rib 25 and the second central rib 27 intersect perpendicularly at the focus of the rounded apex 21. A plurality of additional ribs, such as ribs 29, are connected to the first central rib 25 and the second central rib 27 so as to form triangles therewith, triangular construction of supporting ribs being stronger than rectangular or other geometric structures.
, .
. .. . . . .. .
': ' '- , 2 ~ ~ a Connecting apparatus is provided between the trigger 13 and the retractable spike 11 for protruding the spike from the ground engaging portion 9 in response to the trigger 13 being moved from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure SB. According to the preferred embodiment, this connecting apparatus comprises an actuator rod 31 connected to the trigger 13 and a cylindrical member 33 connected at one end to the rod 31 via a length adjusting threaded fitting 35, and at an opposite end to the retractable spike 11.
As shown in Figures 4, SA and 5B, the trigger 13 comprises a generally C-shaped portion 36 connected at a base portion thereof to the handle 1 via a first pivot or hinge pin 37. An extension 39 projects from the base of the C-shaped portion 36 on the opposite side of the first pivot 37. A cantilever arm 41 is pivotally connected at one end to the extension 39 via spring pin 43 and at an opposite end to the actuator rod 31 via pivot 45.
As will be described in greater detail below, in order to move the spike 11 into the protruded ground engaging position of Figure 3, the C-shaped portion 36 of trigger 13 is pulled via finger action upwardly from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure 5B. Conversely, in order to retract the spike 11 : 25 within the ground engaging portion 9, the trigger 13 is pivoted from the position shown in Figure 5B to the position shown in Figure 5A by applying downward pressure on the distal end 38 of the C-shaped portion 36 of trigger 13.
CANE WITH EXTENDABLE/RETRACTABLE SPIKE
Field of the Invention This invention relates in general to walking aids, and more particularly to an adjustable length walking cane with retractable spike.
Backqround of the Invention Every year, hundreds of thousands of people, including seniors and those with physical disabilities, suffer severe injuries as a result of slipping on ice, snow, wet grass, mud, leaves, etc. A large number of such accidents have been known to occur even when a person has been walking with a cane.
Prior art walking canes have been devised to address the aforenoted problems. For example, United States Patent 3,448,749 (Stark) discloses a cane with retractable spikes connected to a finger operated actuating lever via a pivot device. A similar device is disclosed in United States Patent 2,682,275 (Eyrich) wherein the spike is trigger operated and spring loaded.
In addition to the known prior art canes with retractable spikes, adjustable length canes are also known. Such canes normally are provided with a telescoping shaft with aligned holes through the inner and outer shafts and suitable fastening means such as a spring pin for securing the telescoping tubes in predetermined orientation to establish the length of the cane.
It is not believed to be known in the prior art to provide a cane with both adjustable overall length, and retractable spike or other ground engaging anti-slip mechanism.
Summary of the Invention According to the present invention, an adjustable length cane is provided in combination with a trigger-operated, internally disposed spike. The cane of the present invention is characterized by an orthopedically ; shaped handle for placing the user's hand directly over the weight supporting shaft to ensure balance and comfort. The handle incorporates a plurality of structural ribs for spreading the weight load on the g ~
handle and directing the load toward the centre of the cane shaft. An ergonomically placed trigger is provided for activating the internal spike mechanism so that when the spike is activated the trigger lies flush with the S handle. A novel internal structure is provided for accommodating both overall length adjustment of the cane in combination with the retractable spike function.
According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an orthopaedic mobility assistance device, comprising:
a) first support means;
b) handle means connected to said first support means;
c) trigger means mounted to said handle means, said trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position, d) second support means connected to said first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
e) retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from said ground engaging portion to contact said walking surface with increased gripping action than said ground engaging portion, and retracting within said ground engaging portion when said increased gripping action is not required; and f) connecting means between said trigger means and said retractable spike means for protruding said spike means from said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said first position and retracting said spike means into said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said second position.
Brief Description of the Drawings A detailed description of the preferred embodiment is provided herein below with reference to the following drawings, in which:
Figure 1 shows an adjustable length cane with ;, ~2~5 retractable spikes in accordance with the preferred embodiment;
Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view of the handle portion of the cane with trigger retracted into the handle portion;
Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of a ground engaging portion of the cane with projecting retractable spike;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cane according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures 5A and 5B are detailed schematic views showing operation of the trigger mechanism according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures ~A and 6B are detailed cross-sectional views showing a ground engaging portion of the cane and operation of the retractable spike, according to the preferred embodiment;
Figures 7A and 7B are detailed cross-sectional views showing length adjusting means according to the present invention; and Fiqure 8 is a perspective view showing the structure and operation of the retractable spike according to the preferred embodiment.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment The outward appearance of the height adjustable cane according to the present invention is shown with reference to Figures }-3. The cane comprises handle portion 1 connected to a first support member 5. A
second support member 7 is secured in telescopic : 30 arrangement with the first support member 5 and is provided with a ground engaging portion 9 at the base thereof. According to the preferred embodiment, the ground engaging portion 9 comprises a rubber boot which houses a retractable spike 11 (Figure 3). The retractable spike 11 is operated by means of a trigger mechanism 13 so that in the position shown in Figure 1, the spike 11 is retracted within the ground engaging ,' portion 9, and upon moving the trigger mechanism 13 into the position shown from Figure 2, the spike 11 is caused to project or protrude from the ground engaging portion 9. .
~ wrist strap 15 is provided for ease of carrying the cane when climbing stairs, or for hanging the cane by a coat peg, etc.
The handle portion 1 preferably comprises a first generally oblong portion 17 oriented substantially perpendicular to the first support member 5. A second portion 19 of the handle 1 extends co-axially with the first support member 5 and arcs slightly to a rounded apex 21. A reduced diameter portion 23 is provided intermediate the first generally oblong portion 17 and the second portion 19. The reduced diameter portion 23 is positioned over the first support member 5.
Turning to Figures 4 and 8, the internal structure of the cane is illustrated. Within the handle 1, a triangulated rib structure is provided for spreading weight load applied to the handle and directing the weight load to the centre of the shaft of the cane.
Specifically, the internal supporting rib structure comprises a central rib 25 extending from a distal end of the first generally oblong portion 17 centrally therethrough to a surface of the second portion 19 opposite the distal end. The second central rib 27 extends from a distal end of the second portion 19 adjacent the reduced diameter portion 23 centrally through the second portion toward the first support member 5. The first central rib 25 and the second central rib 27 intersect perpendicularly at the focus of the rounded apex 21. A plurality of additional ribs, such as ribs 29, are connected to the first central rib 25 and the second central rib 27 so as to form triangles therewith, triangular construction of supporting ribs being stronger than rectangular or other geometric structures.
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. .. . . . .. .
': ' '- , 2 ~ ~ a Connecting apparatus is provided between the trigger 13 and the retractable spike 11 for protruding the spike from the ground engaging portion 9 in response to the trigger 13 being moved from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure SB. According to the preferred embodiment, this connecting apparatus comprises an actuator rod 31 connected to the trigger 13 and a cylindrical member 33 connected at one end to the rod 31 via a length adjusting threaded fitting 35, and at an opposite end to the retractable spike 11.
As shown in Figures 4, SA and 5B, the trigger 13 comprises a generally C-shaped portion 36 connected at a base portion thereof to the handle 1 via a first pivot or hinge pin 37. An extension 39 projects from the base of the C-shaped portion 36 on the opposite side of the first pivot 37. A cantilever arm 41 is pivotally connected at one end to the extension 39 via spring pin 43 and at an opposite end to the actuator rod 31 via pivot 45.
As will be described in greater detail below, in order to move the spike 11 into the protruded ground engaging position of Figure 3, the C-shaped portion 36 of trigger 13 is pulled via finger action upwardly from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure 5B. Conversely, in order to retract the spike 11 : 25 within the ground engaging portion 9, the trigger 13 is pivoted from the position shown in Figure 5B to the position shown in Figure 5A by applying downward pressure on the distal end 38 of the C-shaped portion 36 of trigger 13.
3~ In the position shown in Figure 5A, the trigger 13 is held in place by a resilient latch comprising a catch mechanism 47 disposed within the second portion 19 of the handle 1, and a cooperatively shaped finger projection 51 from the extension 39. The finger projection 51 is adapted to be releasably received within the catch mechanism 47.
Upon pulling the trigger 13, the trigger is caused '- ~
to rotate about pivot 37, thereby causing cantilever arm 41 to move downwardly while pivoting about spring pin 43.
This causes the actuator rod to move downwardly within the first supporting member S without any bending forces being applied thereto via the trigger mechanism. The actuator rod 31 further comprises a threaded rod 53 which is connected to the rod 31 via force-fit engagement at a lower end thereof.
The spike 11 is embedded into the lowermost portion of the connection member 33, the threaded brass fitting 35 being embedded at an opposite distal end thereof. The connecting member 33 may be fabricated from injection molded plastic or other suitable material with a hollow core running through opposite quonset-shaped molded portions 54 for receiving the threaded rod 53.
Thus, the downward movement actuator rod 31 which is responsive to moving the trigger 13 from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure 5B, causes a downward movement in connection member 33 which, in turn, causes the spike 11 to protrude from the bottom of the ground engaging portion 9.
In the spike-extended position of Figure 5B, the trigger 13 is retracted so as to be flush with the handle 1, within a recess 55 (Figures 4 and 5B).
The injection molded cylindrical member 33 includes a slot 57 for receiving an inwardly directed detent 59 in the second tubular support member 7, as shown in detail with reference to Figure 6A and 6B. In Figure 6A, the ; spike 11 is shown in the retracted position whereas in Figure 6B, the spike 11 is shown protruding from the ground engaging portion 9. In the retracted position of Figure 6A, the cylindrical member 33 is raised so that the detent 59 abuts the lower extremity of recess 57 while in Figure 6B, the cylindrical member 33 has moved downwardly so that the detent 59 rests against an upward - extremity of the slot or recess 57.
With reference to Figures 7A and 7B, the mechanism . .
~2~ ~
for adjusting the length of the cane is shown in greater detail comprising a first aperture 61 in the second support member 7, a plurality of further apertures 63 in the first support member 5 and extending along a portion 5 of the length thereof, and a pin 65 for insertion through a selected one of the plurality of apertures 63 and the aperture 61 for securing the second support member 7 to the first support member 5 against rotational and longitudinal movement in a selected one of the plurality 10 of adjustable length positions.
A protective ring 8 is provided for covering and concealing the height adjustment pin 65 (see Figure 1).
In order to adjust the length of the cane from the position shown in Figure 7A to the position shown in 15 Figure 7B, the pin 65 is removed and the support member 7 is rotated counterclockwise relative to the support member 5. The rotational movement of support member 7 is translated to the inner connecting member 33 via the detent 59 and internal recess or slot 57. The actuator 20 rod 31 and threaded rod 53 are prevented from rotating by virtue of the rigid connection of trigger 13 to handle portion 1. Therefore, counterclockwise rotation of the connecting member 33 causes threaded brass bushing 35 to advance along the threhds of stationary rod 53. Rotation 25 of the lower supporting member 7 is continued until the aperture 61 aligns with the next lower one~ of the apertures 63 in upper supporting member 5. Then, as shown in Figure 713, the pin 65 is re-inserted through the aligned holes for preventing further relative rotation 30 between the upper and lower supporting members 5 and 7.
The annular ring 71 surrounds actuator rod 31 (Figure 8) for preventing excessive flexing due to the weight load on the rod 31.
Rotation of the lower support member or tube 7 in a 35 clockwise direction shortens the length of the cane by retracting the lower supporting member 7 into the surrounding upper supporting member 5. In all other -~ 2~2~t ~ ~
respects, the procedure for shortening the length of the cane is identical to the procedure discussed above in connection with lengthening the cane.
In addition to the foregoing, according to the preferred embodiment, vibration absorbing rings 67 are provided intermediate the handle 13 and the first support means 7 (Figure 4). Furthermore, a detent 69 is provided in the upper end of lower support member 7 for maintaining proper alignment between the first support means 7 and cylindrical member 33.
In summary, a walking cane is provided with a retractable spike 11 for aiding the user in walking confidently over dry surfaces, hazardous ice, snow, wet grass, mud or other surfaces. The orthopedically shaped handle 1 provides greater user balance and fits both small and large hands, including hands which suffer from arthritis. The trigger may be easily reached and activated using only one finger while walking and even when wearing gloves. Both the handle 1 and completely retractable trigger 13 are made from light and durable material. The spike 11 may be completely retracted when not in use, to prevent harm to carpeting or wooden floors. The aluminum shaft of the cane provided by lower tube 7 and upper tube 5 is completely height adjustable to suit any person. The cane of the present invention incorporates very few moving parts resulting in higher reliability and low maintenance re~uirements.
Other variations and modifications of the invention are possible. For example, the principle of height adjustment and retractable spike as discussed herein may be applied to crutches or other orthopaedic mobility aiding devices. All such modifications or variations are ~` believed to be within the sphere and scope of the invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Upon pulling the trigger 13, the trigger is caused '- ~
to rotate about pivot 37, thereby causing cantilever arm 41 to move downwardly while pivoting about spring pin 43.
This causes the actuator rod to move downwardly within the first supporting member S without any bending forces being applied thereto via the trigger mechanism. The actuator rod 31 further comprises a threaded rod 53 which is connected to the rod 31 via force-fit engagement at a lower end thereof.
The spike 11 is embedded into the lowermost portion of the connection member 33, the threaded brass fitting 35 being embedded at an opposite distal end thereof. The connecting member 33 may be fabricated from injection molded plastic or other suitable material with a hollow core running through opposite quonset-shaped molded portions 54 for receiving the threaded rod 53.
Thus, the downward movement actuator rod 31 which is responsive to moving the trigger 13 from the position shown in Figure 5A to the position shown in Figure 5B, causes a downward movement in connection member 33 which, in turn, causes the spike 11 to protrude from the bottom of the ground engaging portion 9.
In the spike-extended position of Figure 5B, the trigger 13 is retracted so as to be flush with the handle 1, within a recess 55 (Figures 4 and 5B).
The injection molded cylindrical member 33 includes a slot 57 for receiving an inwardly directed detent 59 in the second tubular support member 7, as shown in detail with reference to Figure 6A and 6B. In Figure 6A, the ; spike 11 is shown in the retracted position whereas in Figure 6B, the spike 11 is shown protruding from the ground engaging portion 9. In the retracted position of Figure 6A, the cylindrical member 33 is raised so that the detent 59 abuts the lower extremity of recess 57 while in Figure 6B, the cylindrical member 33 has moved downwardly so that the detent 59 rests against an upward - extremity of the slot or recess 57.
With reference to Figures 7A and 7B, the mechanism . .
~2~ ~
for adjusting the length of the cane is shown in greater detail comprising a first aperture 61 in the second support member 7, a plurality of further apertures 63 in the first support member 5 and extending along a portion 5 of the length thereof, and a pin 65 for insertion through a selected one of the plurality of apertures 63 and the aperture 61 for securing the second support member 7 to the first support member 5 against rotational and longitudinal movement in a selected one of the plurality 10 of adjustable length positions.
A protective ring 8 is provided for covering and concealing the height adjustment pin 65 (see Figure 1).
In order to adjust the length of the cane from the position shown in Figure 7A to the position shown in 15 Figure 7B, the pin 65 is removed and the support member 7 is rotated counterclockwise relative to the support member 5. The rotational movement of support member 7 is translated to the inner connecting member 33 via the detent 59 and internal recess or slot 57. The actuator 20 rod 31 and threaded rod 53 are prevented from rotating by virtue of the rigid connection of trigger 13 to handle portion 1. Therefore, counterclockwise rotation of the connecting member 33 causes threaded brass bushing 35 to advance along the threhds of stationary rod 53. Rotation 25 of the lower supporting member 7 is continued until the aperture 61 aligns with the next lower one~ of the apertures 63 in upper supporting member 5. Then, as shown in Figure 713, the pin 65 is re-inserted through the aligned holes for preventing further relative rotation 30 between the upper and lower supporting members 5 and 7.
The annular ring 71 surrounds actuator rod 31 (Figure 8) for preventing excessive flexing due to the weight load on the rod 31.
Rotation of the lower support member or tube 7 in a 35 clockwise direction shortens the length of the cane by retracting the lower supporting member 7 into the surrounding upper supporting member 5. In all other -~ 2~2~t ~ ~
respects, the procedure for shortening the length of the cane is identical to the procedure discussed above in connection with lengthening the cane.
In addition to the foregoing, according to the preferred embodiment, vibration absorbing rings 67 are provided intermediate the handle 13 and the first support means 7 (Figure 4). Furthermore, a detent 69 is provided in the upper end of lower support member 7 for maintaining proper alignment between the first support means 7 and cylindrical member 33.
In summary, a walking cane is provided with a retractable spike 11 for aiding the user in walking confidently over dry surfaces, hazardous ice, snow, wet grass, mud or other surfaces. The orthopedically shaped handle 1 provides greater user balance and fits both small and large hands, including hands which suffer from arthritis. The trigger may be easily reached and activated using only one finger while walking and even when wearing gloves. Both the handle 1 and completely retractable trigger 13 are made from light and durable material. The spike 11 may be completely retracted when not in use, to prevent harm to carpeting or wooden floors. The aluminum shaft of the cane provided by lower tube 7 and upper tube 5 is completely height adjustable to suit any person. The cane of the present invention incorporates very few moving parts resulting in higher reliability and low maintenance re~uirements.
Other variations and modifications of the invention are possible. For example, the principle of height adjustment and retractable spike as discussed herein may be applied to crutches or other orthopaedic mobility aiding devices. All such modifications or variations are ~` believed to be within the sphere and scope of the invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
Claims (21)
1. An orthopaedic mobility assistance device, comprising:
a) first support means;
b) handle means connected to said first support means;
c) trigger means mounted to said handle means, said trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position;
d) second support means connected to said first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
e) retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from said ground engaging portion to contact said walking surface with increased gripping action than said ground engaging portion, and retracting within said ground engaging portion when said increased gripping action is not required; and f) connecting means between said trigger means and said retractable spike means for protruding said spike means from said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said first position and retracting said spike means into said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said second position.
a) first support means;
b) handle means connected to said first support means;
c) trigger means mounted to said handle means, said trigger means being adapted to move selectively between a first position and a second position;
d) second support means connected to said first support means at one end and having a ground engaging portion at opposite end for contacting a walking surface;
e) retractable spike means adapted for selectively protruding from said ground engaging portion to contact said walking surface with increased gripping action than said ground engaging portion, and retracting within said ground engaging portion when said increased gripping action is not required; and f) connecting means between said trigger means and said retractable spike means for protruding said spike means from said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said first position and retracting said spike means into said ground engaging portion in response to said trigger means being moved to said second position.
2. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, further including means for positioning said second support means in a plurality of adjustable length positions relative to said first support means.
3. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 2, further including means for adjusting the length of said connecting means so as to effect operation of said trigger means in each of said plurality of adjustable length positions of said second support means relative to said first support means.
4. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 2, wherein said first support means and said second support means are telescopically connected tubular members.
5. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 4, wherein said means for positioning comprises a first aperture in said second support means, a plurality of further apertures in said first support means and extending along a portion of the length thereof, and pin means for insertion through said first aperture and a selected one of said plurality of second apertures for securing said second support means to said first support means in a selected one of said plurality of adjustable length positions.
6. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 3, wherein said connecting means comprises an actuator rod connected to said trigger means and a cylindrical member connected at one end to said rod via said means for adjusting, and at an opposite end to said retractable spike means.
7. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 6, wherein said means for adjusting the length of said connecting means comprises cooperative threaded portions on said actuator rod and said cylindrical member by which said actuator rod and cylindrical member may be rotated relative to each other for adjusting the combined length thereof.
8. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 6, wherein said trigger means further comprises a generally C-shaped portion connected at a base portion thereof to said handle means via a first pivot, an extension from said base portion on the opposite side of said first pivot, and a cantilever arm pivotally connected at one end to said extension and at an opposite end to said actuator rod, whereby in response to pivoting said trigger means from said first position to said second position said extension swings within said handle means in an arc around said first pivot generally toward said first support means and said cantilever arm pivots at both ends and moves toward said first support means thereby pushing said actuator rod and said cylindrical member away from said handle means substantially without imparting bending moments thereto, thereby protruding said retractable spike means from said ground engaging portion.
9. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, further including means for absorbing vibration in said first support means and said second support means.
10. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 9, wherein said means for absorbing vibration comprises a plurality of O-rings intermediate said handle means and said first support means.
11. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, wherein said handle means comprises a first generally oblong portion oriented substantially perpendicular to said fir t support means, a second portion initially extending coaxially with said first support means and arcing slightly to a rounded apex in a direction opposite to said first generally oblong portion, and a reduced diameter portion intermediate said first generally oblong portion and said second portion, said reduced diameter portion being positioned over said first support means.
12. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 11, wherein said handle means further includes an internal supporting rib structure for directing weight load to said first support means.
13. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 12, wherein said internal supporting rib structure comprises a central rib extending from a distal end of said first generally oblong portion centrally therethrough to a surface of said second portion opposite to said distal end, a second central rib extending from a distal end of said second portion adjacent said reduced diameter portion centrally through said second portion toward said first support means, wherein said first central rib and said second central rib intersect perpendicularly at the focus of said rounded apex, and a plurality of additional ribs connected to said first central rib and said second central rib and forming triangles therewith.
14. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 13, further including a wrist strap loop connected to said distal end of said first generally oblong portion for carrying and hanging said orthopaedic mobility assistance device.
15. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, further including resilient latch means for releasable locking of said trigger means in said first position.
16. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 11, further including resilient latch means for releasable locking said trigger means in said first position, said latch means comprising a catch mechanism disposed within said second portion of said handle means and a cooperatively shaped finger projection from said trigger means adapted to be releasable received within said catch mechanism.
17. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, wherein said handle means includes a recess for receiving and releasable retaining said trigger means in said second position.
18. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 1, wherein said ground engaging portion comprises a rubber boot.
19. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 6, wherein said cylindrical member further comprises a moulded central portion into which said retractable spike means is embedded, and a threaded fitting portion for connection to said actuator rod.
20. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 19, wherein said moulded central portion is fabricated from injection moulded plastic.
21. The orthopaedic mobility assistance device of claim 19, wherein said threaded fitting portion is a threaded brass bushing embedded in said moulded central portion.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB9202724.2 | 1992-02-10 | ||
| GB929202724A GB9202724D0 (en) | 1992-02-10 | 1992-02-10 | Cane with extendable/retractable spike |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2082115A1 true CA2082115A1 (en) | 1993-08-11 |
Family
ID=10710085
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2082115 Abandoned CA2082115A1 (en) | 1992-02-10 | 1992-11-04 | Cane with extendable/retractable spike |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2082115A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB9202724D0 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1993015626A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8800578B2 (en) | 2012-07-12 | 2014-08-12 | Donald William Jackson | Ice rescue walking staff |
Families Citing this family (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE19508794C1 (en) * | 1995-03-15 | 1996-02-22 | Hans Weber | Walking stick for use by blind person |
| FI104153B (en) * | 1998-08-06 | 1999-11-30 | Exel Oy | Rod |
| EP2727489B1 (en) | 2012-11-06 | 2014-07-02 | Seppo Sellgren | Antiskid mechanism for walking aid device |
| US10092067B2 (en) | 2014-10-15 | 2018-10-09 | Michael Graves Design Group, Inc. | Walking stick |
| US9414656B1 (en) * | 2015-04-07 | 2016-08-16 | Vernon Greene | Cane with extendable spikes |
| WO2018131014A2 (en) * | 2018-04-16 | 2018-07-19 | Universidad De Panamá | Footprint making stick |
Family Cites Families (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2682275A (en) * | 1948-12-03 | 1954-06-29 | George O Eyrich | Traction attachment for canes, crutches, and the like |
| US3448749A (en) * | 1968-05-22 | 1969-06-10 | Walter Stark | Non-skid attachment for the ground-engaging end of canes,crutches,and the like |
| CA863678A (en) * | 1969-06-17 | 1971-02-16 | J. Armstrong Ewart | Crutch legs |
| DE2124824A1 (en) * | 1971-05-19 | 1972-11-30 | Aßbeck, Max, 8386 Reisbach | Mechanically insertable and removable Metellspitze in a walking stick |
| DE2140450A1 (en) * | 1971-08-12 | 1973-03-15 | Josef Wimmer | COMBINATION STICK FOR HIKING, MOUNTAIN AND SKIING FRIENDS |
| IT8123538V0 (en) * | 1981-11-16 | 1981-11-16 | Fiamma Spa | STICK, ESPECIALLY FOR DEABLED PEOPLE. |
| US4434808A (en) * | 1982-06-18 | 1984-03-06 | Burak Mark G | Anti-skid device for a cane, crutch, or the like |
| DE3713252A1 (en) * | 1987-04-18 | 1988-11-03 | Josef Kellerer | Stick, which can be collapsed into sections, in particular long stick for the blind |
| SE458580B (en) * | 1987-08-25 | 1989-04-17 | Gunvor Karlin | TELESCOPIC LENGTH ADAPTABLE CAP |
| DE3905319A1 (en) * | 1989-02-21 | 1990-08-23 | Franz Mackl | Walking aid |
| US4977914A (en) * | 1989-07-20 | 1990-12-18 | Smerker Charles W | Slip resistent apparatus for canes, crutches and walkers |
-
1992
- 1992-02-10 GB GB929202724A patent/GB9202724D0/en active Pending
- 1992-11-04 CA CA 2082115 patent/CA2082115A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
1993
- 1993-02-10 WO PCT/CA1993/000053 patent/WO1993015626A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8800578B2 (en) | 2012-07-12 | 2014-08-12 | Donald William Jackson | Ice rescue walking staff |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1993015626A1 (en) | 1993-08-19 |
| GB9202724D0 (en) | 1992-03-25 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |