CN104068994A - A mobile support assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A mobile support assembly structured to facilitate an individual's mobility comprising a frame assembly structured for selective positioning between an operative orientation and a collapsed orientation and including two side assemblies each including support wheels connected thereto. Adjustable linkage movably interconnects the two side assemblies to one another in both the operative and collapsed orientations. The operative orientation comprises a maximum lateral spacing of the two side assemblies from one another concurrent to interconnection by said adjustable linkage. The collapsed orientation comprises a closer lateral spacing and substantially adjacent disposition of the two side assemblies than the maximum lateral spacing thereof when in said operative orientation.

Description

Movable support assembly

background of invention

pRIORITY CLAIM

Applied for that sequence number is 10/680,596 U.S. Patent application on October 7th, 2003, this application obtains the 7th on July 11st, 2006,073, No. 801 United States Patent (USP); Applied for that sequence number is 11/129,569 U.S. Patent application on May 13rd, 2005, this application obtains the 7th on June 27th, 2006, and 066, No. 484 United States Patent (USP), is the part continuation application of last U.S. Patent application; Having applied for that sequence number is 11/343,299 application on January 31st, 2006, is the 7th now, 540, No. 527 United States Patent (USP)s, and this application requires the priority of last U.S. Patent application; Having submitted sequence number on October 16th, 2006 is 11/581,762 application, now abandons, and this application is the part continuation application of last application; Applied for that sequence number is 11/980,340 U.S. Patent application on October 30th, 2007, this application has obtained the 7th on April 19th, 2011, and 926, No. 834 United States Patent (USP)s are continuation patent applications of last application; Applied for that sequence number is 13/090,002 U.S. Patent application on April 19th, 2011, this application has obtained the 8th on November 20th, 2012, and 313, No. 116 United States Patent (USP)s are continuation patent applications of last U.S. Patent application; The application is that the part of last U.S. Patent application continues patent application; All above-mentioned applications are all combined in this by reference.

Background technology

A lot of people are because former for want of activities such as age, medical conditions.Therefore, these people often need mechanical assistance instrument or the device of certain type, so that they can move to next place from the three unities.The known devices of easily buying on commercial market comprises " walking aid " assembly, and these " walking aid " assemblies can make individual conventionally when standing or walk, self-sustained in upright stable orientation substantially.For the not too weak individual of health, known walking aid assembly can make its safety on the indoor and outdoors stayed surfaces such as floor, footpath, street walk.And the walking aid of conventional structure may comprise, also may not comprise support wheel assembly.While having this wheel assembly, just can contribute to User Activity.Yet the existence of this wheel assembly may reduce the stability of walking aid, this depends on its architectural feature and whether has relevant safety measure.When all four lower limbs of walking aid framework all comprise while being attached to the wheel, roller of its lower end or similar structures, especially true.

Another kind comprises mobile Chair structure or " wheelchair " for helping those people that may suffer more serious physical limitation to carry out movable device.In recent years, at least partly due to the growing aged, wheelchair use amount increases.Thereby various forms of wheelchairs develop into heavier, larger chair assembly from less, the not too heavy Wheelchair structure of certain light weight construction.In addition, more senior wheelchair design is motor-driven, although somewhat expensive, but still relatively common.Obviously, compared with thering is help activity and manually apply distinct advantages very energetically without user compared with complicated and/or motor-driven wheel seat assembly greatly.In addition, to more advanced motorized wheel chair structure turn to and operate relevant Control Component can make handicap or almost completely paralysis people can substantially use independently.

Comprise the stage that the two moving support structure of walking aid and wheelchair develops into separately effective percentage more and uses reliably.Yet, seem also not possess the combinative structure of multipurpose function, so that single movable support assembly is taked different orientation by forming the structure member of this assembly, not only can be used as walking aid but also can be used as wheelchair and used.Therefore, although the movable auxiliary device of the above-mentioned type has experienced development and progress, but still need a kind of improved Mobile support device, this device all provides important support and stability as walking aid and/or wheelchair use.What propose meeting above-mentioned requirements and the movable aid of constructing, and should be able to easily be configured to rapidly operating position to use, and be configured to possibly stowed position and deposit.

Further, the Multipurpose mobile supporting component of proposition, its various structure members should configure ordinatedly, arrange and construct, thereby easily realize it is optionally positioned to a plurality of different azimuth.Thereby this Mobile support device can be converted, using and use as walking aid or wheel seat assembly.In addition, the Multipurpose mobile supporting component of this proposition also can have other supplementary functions, so that at supporting component when walking aid configures, its structure also allow user in the orientation of taking one's seat by temporary supporting at least, wherein user may need the interim of short duration time of having a rest when using wheelchair itself.If develop the Multipurpose mobile supporting component of this proposition, it should comprise framework and other functional units, and these parts are constructed ordinatedly and relatively can be operated, so that supporting component can optionally be used as walking aid or wheel seat assembly.

Technical field

The present invention is directed to a kind of movable support assembly, it is constructed as the combination of walking aid/wheelchair or as the walking aid use with armchair structure, when not using, be optionally arranged in and pack up that orientation is deposited, transported, shipment etc., and when wanting to use, be arranged in operative orientation.This assembly size when packing up orientation can reduce, and configuration when its configuration can be from operating position changes.

Summary of the invention

In at least one embodiment in a plurality of preferred embodiments, a kind of collapsible walking aid provides for helping the device of User Activity.Described collapsible walking aid comprises optionally in operative orientation and deposits the framework of locating between orientation.The described framework of walking aid assembly is at least in part by comprising the foreleg assembly of at least the first foreleg and comprising that the rear leg assemblies of at least the first back leg that is connected to described the first foreleg limits.Described the first back leg comprises having the upper member of first end and the second end and have first end and the lower member of the second end.The described first end of described upper member is connected to the described first end of described second component, and described lower member preferably can pivotable between stretching, extension use location and folded storage.

In addition, another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises: described walking aid assembly comprises the front component that is connected to described foreleg assembly, and the wheel assembly that is connected to described rear leg assemblies.Other architectural features that are associated with described front component and wheel assembly are, can optionally be arranged in when reduce the longitudinal size of described walking aid assembly and the position of whole configuration when depositing orientation.More particularly, each embodiment of walking aid assembly of the present invention comprises: described front component is fastened on described foreleg assembly removedly.Similarly, described wheel assembly can be connected at least a portion of described rear leg assemblies, so just can move to it folded storage and shift out from folded storage.Alternately, wheel assembly can disconnect with rear leg assemblies.In arbitrary structural variant, the configuration of the framework of described walking aid assembly and at least longitudinal size further reduce, so that the depositing and transporting of described walking aid assembly.

Other additional structural features comprises: Handleset can be adjustable ground and/or be fastened to removedly on the framework of one or more embodiment of described walking aid assembly.And seat is connected on described framework movably, and can be associated with storage box.Thereby described seat can optionally be arranged in and make it support the user's of described walking aid assembly position.When Support Position in such, the inlet port of described storage box is overlooked and covered at least in part to described seat.Other architectural features that are associated can comprise that backrest arranges and be configured to the back when user's supporting user when the position of taking one's seat is supported on the seat of described walking aid.The architectural feature of described seat, storage box and backrest is: for when described walking aid arrangement of components is above-mentioned while depositing orientation, further contribute to reduce compactly configuration and the size of described walking aid assembly, as desired so that the depositing and/or transporting of described walking aid assembly.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises that movable support component structure becomes to have multipurpose function, and the same with above-described embodiment, can optionally be arranged in operative orientation and deposit between orientation.More particularly, depend on and the orientation of described framework and/or one or more parts of being associated with described framework, the movable support assembly of the preferred embodiment can optionally be used as walking aid or wheelchair.And described framework comprises at least one adjustabel part or adjustable frame section, this adjustabel part or adjustable frame section are rotatable with respect to the remainder of described framework or can pivotable at least in part.Therefore, described framework generally and described adjustabel part or adjustable frame section can be optionally arranged in first orientation or second orientation particularly.Described framework and/or described adjustable frame section are arranged in described first orientation can use as walking aid described movable support assembly, and wherein said framework and/or described adjustable frame section are arranged in described second orientation can use as wheelchair described movable support assembly.

Other structures and the performance characteristic of the preferred embodiment of described movable support assembly comprise: described framework also comprises two side frame sections, and described side frame section configures, is constructed and arranged to limit a part for chair assembly at least in part.Described chair assembly comprises main support member, and when described movable support assembly is used in described second orientation and as wheelchair, this main support member is for the individual in the orientation of taking one's seat.Further, described chair assembly comprises seat and back support, and the people that described seat and back support are arranged and constructed into taking one's seat provides suitable support and at least certain comfort level.By comprising, be connected to separately the foreleg assembly of wheel assembly and the framework of rear leg assemblies, be convenient to the activity of the supporting component of the preferred embodiment.Described wheel assembly comprises a plurality of wheel that quantity is identical with lower limb, comprises front component and wheel assembly.Therefore,, when described movable support assembly is used as walking aid or wheelchair, described wheel assembly is supported on any face variously or other stayed surfaces top by described movable support assembly.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises the movable support assembly of the form that is mainly walking aid assembly, the same with above-described embodiment, and this movable support assembly comprises that be convenient to individual stablizes the framework of advancing and constructing above various different surfaces.In addition, described framework comprises foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies, and described foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies preferably include two lower limbs that separate separately.Described foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies be interconnection each other movably, and described like this framework just can optionally be arranged in operative orientation or deposit orientation.When operative orientation, described foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies be positioned to be convenient to individual on various different surfaces and above stable support and/or advance.

When depositing orientation, described foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies is folded or otherwise relatively arrange, so that alignment or jointly extend at least partly.Therefore, deposit the lateral dimension that orientation allows described framework at least to reduce.And, deposit orientation can also by the lower limb component selection with respect to being connected with one or more wheel assemblies adjust described wheel assembly, contribute to described framework to become to be the longitudinal size reducing.In addition, the orientation of depositing of described framework can also be at least in part by limiting from its respective leg assembly dismounting one or more wheel assemblies at least in part further to realize the longitudinal size reducing of described framework.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is for a kind of movable support assembly, and described movable support assembly can operate, so that individual is supported on any various different surfaces movably.When individual is when standing walking orientation, the preferred embodiment is as other preferred embodiments with described here similar " walking aid " in operation.By contrast, the preferred embodiment combines chair, and described chair comprises that wherein, when individual takes one's seat, described movable support assembly can move or keep static for supporting individual seat and the handrail in the orientation of substantially taking one's seat.

Therefore, the movable support assembly of the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises frame assembly, and described frame assembly is configured in operative orientation and packs up between orientation and optionally locate.Thereby described frame assembly comprises two side frame assemblies, each side frame assembly comprises support wheel, and described support wheel is connected on described side frame assembly, and is arranged to the surface engagement of advancing with described movable support assembly.And each side frame assembly comprises front component and wheel assembly, described front component and wheel assembly can be connected to corresponding side assemblies removedly, to be convenient to dismantle while packing up orientation and reduce size and change configuration above-mentioned.

These two side assemblies are connected to each other movably adjustably by adjustable linkage mechanism separately.More particularly, described adjustable linkage mechanism is included in its centre, opposite end pivotly or two elongated connecting rods that interconnect rotatably.Further, described in each, elongated link component comprises first-phase opposite end and second-phase opposite end, and wherein the first-phase opposite end of each elongated link component and second-phase opposite end are connected to different side member movably.When packing up orientation, great changes will take place for the size of described framework and configuration, sufficiently to reduce and/or to change, so that transport and/or advance.By contrast, at operating position, as pointed out equally above, the framework of described movable support assembly can be used as the individual that walking aid was used and/or supported the orientation of taking one's seat.

By limiting at least in part two interactions of the elongated link component of interconnection movably of adjustable linkage mechanism, realized operative orientation and packed up the selectivity layout between orientation.Therefore, described operative orientation comprises that, because two elongated link components are arranged between described side member with the orientation that extends laterally or launch, described two side assemblies are maximum lateral spacing substantially each other.Thereby the same with the side assemblies of attached described link component, the first-phase opposite end of described link component and second-phase opposite end to arrange each other maximum lateral spacing.

By contrast, described in pack up orientation comprise with when the described operative orientation described in the maximum lateral spacing of side assemblies compare, described two side assemblies are arranged with nearlyer relative spacing.Describedly pack up two elongated link components that orientation further comprises described adjustable linkage mechanism and be arranged to adjacent, longitudinal extension alignment or directed substantially.Therefore, when packing up orientation, described two side assemblies very near-earth are drawn close, thereby reduce the lateral dimension of described frame assembly.Further, described in, packing up orientation can also be disconnected and being limited by described front component and/or wheel assembly and described two side assemblies one or both of.Similarly, the outward extending handle component of each side assemblies with optionally variable distance from described two side assemblies also can be disassembled, further to reduce overall dimensions and/or the configuration of described framework when packing up orientation.

Other architectural features comprise: described chair comprises above-mentioned seat, and described seat is arranged ordinatedly with respect to backrest, to support this individual when individual takes one's seat simultaneously.Described seat and backrest can be to be formed by flexible material, and are arranged to be interconnected relationship between each side assemblies, so that in operative orientation with pack up between orientation along with side assemblies moves.Therefore,, when packing up orientation, when two side assemblies are optionally arranged to each other substantially neighbouring relations, the two will fold flexible seat and backrest, thereby effectively packs up.By contrast, seat and backrest all can be outwards and/or longitudinal extension, so just it applied to enough tension force, so that it supports the appropriate section of individual health.

Other architectural features of the preferred embodiment of described movable support assembly comprise: in supporting orientation, between laterally spaced side assemblies, also interconnection has storage box.Described storage box can be also to be made by flexible material, is optionally positioned so above-mentionedly when packing up orientation and being nearer laterally spaced relation two side assemblies, and storage box is just packed up with the size and/or the configuration that reduce.

When considering accompanying drawing and describing in detail, these and other objects of the present invention, feature and advantage will become clearer.

Accompanying drawing explanation

In order to understand more fully essence of the present invention, should be with reference to the following detailed description of carrying out by reference to the accompanying drawings, in the accompanying drawings:

Fig. 1 is that collapsible walking aid is in the front perspective view of one of them embodiment of operating position.

Fig. 2 is the back perspective view of collapsible walking aid as shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 3 is the side view of the collapsible walking aid shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 4 a and Fig. 4 b are as being used in front view and the side view on top of the embodiment of the hinge assembly on the collapsible walking aid as shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 5 a and Fig. 5 b are as being used in front view and the side view of bottom of the embodiment of the hinge assembly on the collapsible walking aid as shown in Fig. 1.

Fig. 6 a to Fig. 6 d is together used with the collapsible walking aid shown in Fig. 1, comprises the partial cut away side views of the embodiment of the hinge assembly of the upper and lower as shown in Fig. 4 a to Fig. 4 b and Fig. 5 a to Fig. 5 b respectively.

Fig. 7 is that the collapsible walking aid shown in Fig. 1 is arranged in back perspective view when partially folded while depositing orientation.

Fig. 8 is the back perspective view of the collapsible walking aid shown in Fig. 1 when completely folding when depositing orientation.

Fig. 9 is for keeping wheel assembly and respective leg assembly to be the top view of the stop connector of annexation at least one preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 10 is the partial cut front view of the corresponding connecting portion of foreleg assembly and/or rear leg assemblies and front component and/or wheel assembly.

Figure 11 is the partial cut side view of the embodiment of Figure 10.

Figure 12 is that the embodiment of Figure 10 and Figure 11 is being connected or the partial cut front view of rigging position.

Figure 13 is the partial cut front view of the embodiment of Figure 12, and wherein the stop connector shown in Fig. 9 is arranged in stop position with respect to the lower limb assembly and the wheel assembly that correspondingly connect.

Figure 14 is that Figure 13 is along the sectional view of line 14-14.

Figure 15 is the front perspective view of another supporting component that preferably can use as walking aid or wheelchair.

Figure 16 is the side perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1, and wherein movable support assembly is first orientation and can uses as walking aid.

Figure 17 is the back perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 16.

Figure 18 be wheel assembly the part being associated with movable support assembly and can pedal associated therewith or the partial cut detailed view of support member.

Figure 19 is the partial cut detailed view of a handle of adjustable handle assembly, and its position can optionally change.

Figure 20 is the perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the present invention, and it is configured to be efficiently the compact orientation that significantly reduces size, so that deposit and/or transport.

Figure 21 is the detail perspective view of the handrail that is associated with preferred embodiment and other embodiment described below of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is the partial cut detailed view of the embodiment of Figure 20, and wherein its some structure member is arranged in and packs up compact orientation.

Figure 23 is the partial cut detailed view of the connector that is associated with the packed up essence of the embodiment of Figure 22.

Figure 24 is the detailed perspective view of handrail of the embodiment of side frame section in two side frame sections that are connected with Handleset and Figure 20.

Figure 25 is the perspective view of another preferred embodiment of movable support assembly of the present invention, and it is for the form of walking aid and comprise framework and the parts that are associated, and there is no the attached wheel assembly generally including.

Figure 26 is the back perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 25.

Figure 27 is the side view of the embodiment of Figure 25 and Figure 26.

Figure 28 is the two partial cut perspective view of the foreleg assembly of embodiment of Figure 25 to Figure 27 and rear leg assemblies, and wherein corresponding wheel assembly is in position thereon to be installed.

Figure 29 is the top sectional view of another embodiment of the stop connector similar but different from the embodiment of Figure 13 and Figure 14.

Figure 30 is the partial cut front view of the foreleg assembly of Figure 25 to Figure 28 and/or the corresponding connecting portion of rear leg assemblies and front component and/or wheel assembly.

Figure 31 is the partial cut side view of the embodiment of Figure 30.

Figure 32 is that the embodiment of Figure 30 and Figure 31 is being connected or the partial cut front view of rigging position.

Figure 33 is when supporting component is during in operating position, with the foreleg assembly of embodiment and the partial cut side view of the carriage assembly that rear leg assemblies is associated of Figure 25 to Figure 29.

Figure 34 is the top end view of the embodiment of Figure 33, and wherein carriage assembly is in folding position, to the supporting component of the embodiment of Figure 25 to Figure 29 is arranged in and deposits orientation.

Figure 35 is the perspective view of another preferred embodiment of movable support assembly of the present invention.

Figure 36 is the perspective view of decomposed form of the embodiment of Fig. 1.

Figure 37 is the front view of the movable support assembly of the present invention as presented in the embodiment of Figure 35 and Figure 36.

Figure 38 means that movable support assembly navigates to the partial cut back perspective view of packing up orientation from the operative orientation of Fig. 1.

Figure 39 is the partial cut back perspective view of the movable support assembly of Figure 38, and this assembly is in packing up orientation to spaced position to limit at least in part compared with nearside.

In all these views of accompanying drawing, identical reference marker refers to identical part.

The specific embodiment

In more detail with reference to accompanying drawing, Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 shows collapsible walking aid 100 at an embodiment of operative orientation now.As shown in the figure, collapsible walking aid 100 comprises the framework being limited by foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies at least in part.More particularly, foreleg assembly comprises by least the first cross member 128 and is fastened to the first foreleg 110a and the second foreleg 110b going up each other.The first foreleg 110a and the second foreleg 110b are pivotably connected to rear leg assemblies separately, and this rear leg assemblies comprises respectively the first back leg 120a and the second back leg 120b.The first and second back leg 120a, 120b comprises upper member or top 122a separately, 122b, in at least one preferred embodiment, this upper member or top are respectively by hinge assembly 150a, 150b is attached to corresponding lower member or bottom 130a pivotly, 130b, and this will below discuss in more detail.Preferably, the first upper member 122a is connected by the second cross member 136 with the second upper member 122b, and this second cross member is positioned to the height identical with the first cross member 128 stayed surface top under collapsible walking aid 100.Can be at the first and second foreleg 110a, between 110b with the first and second upper member 122a, other cross member is set, although for example cross member 129(is not necessarily in all embodiments between 122b), to provide additional stability to collapsible walking aid 100.Preferably, the first cross member 128, the second cross member 136 and cross member 129 are soldered on support 127, described support and then be soldered on the corresponding lower limb of collapsible walking aid 100.Certainly, other syndetons are also thought within the scope of the invention.Further, the first and second foreleg 110a, 110b is preferably by folding rack 116a, and 116b is connected respectively to the first and second upper member 122a, 122b.The first and second folding rack 116a, 116b is preferably connected to each other by tie-rod 118, and is configured to only have and is deviated from stayed surface under collapsible walking aid 100 while upwards pushing away when tie-rod, folding rack 116a, 116b just packs up.

As indicated above, as shown in Fig. 2 the best, the first and second upper members or top 122a, 122b is respectively by the first and second hinge assembly 150a, and 150b can hingedly be connected to the first and second lower members or bottom 130a, 130b.For the sake of clarity, will only describe the first back leg 120a, and be interpreted as the second back leg 120b and there is structure and the performance characteristic being equal to.As shown in the figure, the second end 126a of the first upper member 122a is preferably by pivot structure, and for example pivot assembly 125a, is rotatably connected to foreleg 110a.Similarly, pivot assembly 125b is rotatably connected to the second foreleg 110b by the second end 126b.Top 152a(Fig. 4 a and Fig. 4 b of the first hinge assembly 150a) be fastened to the first end 124a of upper member 122a.Similarly, bottom 160a(Fig. 5 a and Fig. 5 b) be installed to the first end 132a of the first lower member 130a.By by axle 166 through the corresponding axis hole 159a in the 152a of top and the corresponding axis passage 166a in the 160a of bottom, upper and lower 152a, 160a can be hingedly fastened to each other and be gone up.Thereby as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3, the first lower member 130a is secured to the first member 122a.As shown in Fig. 6 a to Fig. 6 d, bottom 160a comprises biasing lock pin 170, and this biasing lock pin is by being threadably fastened on low section button 172, so that operation the first hinge assembly 150a.And lock pin 170 is setovered by spring 174.Below discuss in more detail the first and second hinge assembly 150a, the operation of 150b and collapsible walking aid 100.

Referring again to Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, when the operative orientation in as shown in the figure, the preferred embodiment of collapsible walking aid 100 can comprise seat 142, and this seat is connected to movably the first and second cross members 128,136 and supported by it.As shown in the figure, seat-assembly 142 is in Support Position, to allow user to take one's seat thereon.Be supported on the first and second foreleg 110a, the backrest 144 between 110b also can be arranged to be supporting relation with the user's that takes one's seat back, therefore can comprise mat or liner 146, so that user feels comfortable.Preferably, seat-assembly 142 is configured to rotate around the first cross member 128, like this when the framework of walking aid assembly in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 deposit orientation time, seat 142 can be to backrest 144 rotations, and are arranged to be with backrest the relation of substantially facing.

When such layout, just can enter and expose the inside of the storage box 148 being conventionally arranged under seat 142.Preferably, storage box 148 is supported by the first and second cross members 128,136, and is formed by flexible material, and this flexible material is fastened to the first and second cross members 128,136 with a plurality of snap-fasteners 149, and these snap-fasteners allow storage box 148 to be removed.In a preferred embodiment, the flexibility of storage box 148 makes when the operative orientation of framework in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, storage box is arranged in expanded position, when the deposit position of framework in Fig. 8, storage box between foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies in stowed position.Yet, can also expect that storage box 148 wherein comprises other embodiment of silk screen basket or other similar structures.

As shown in institute's drawings attached, walking aid assembly 100 preferably includes: the front component that comprises wheel construction 188, and the wheel assembly that comprises wheel construction 180.More specifically, the first and second foreleg 110a, 110b comprises the second end 114a that is arranged in each lower limb separately, a different fore wheel structure 188 of 114b.As shown in the figure, fore wheel structure 188 is preferably provided with castor, so just can be around the first and second foreleg 110a, and 110b fully rotates, thereby increases the maneuverability of collapsible walking aid assembly 100.The first and second back leg 120a, 120b is connected to one of them rear-wheel structure 180 separately, and rear-wheel structure is arranged in the first and second lower members or bottom 130a, the second end 134a of 130b, 134b.Preferably, wheel assembly 180 is not installed castor, therefore not around the first and second back leg 120a, 120b pivotable.

As shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3, at least one preferred embodiment of collapsible walking aid assembly 100 is configured to as the first and second lower members or bottom 130a, when 130b relies on the architectural feature of hinge assembly 150a and 150b to be locked in it fully to stretch use location, assisted user walking.For ease of describing, only the first hinge assembly 150a is discussed, should understand hinge assembly 150b is its copy and/or equivalent.In use, the first hinge assembly 150a is configured as shown in Figure 6 a, as watched from the front portion of walking aid 100.The core 162 of bottom 160a is arranged in the sleeve 154 of top 152a.Core 162 is fastened in place by lock pin 170, lock pin through top 152a and bottom 160a the two and extend.As shown in the figure, when core 162 suitably seat when sleeve 154 is interior, hold the locking channel 164 of the lock pin 170 of setover with in sleeve 154 formation lockhole 156 align.Locking channel 164 also holds spring 174, and this spring is by lock pin 170 biasings, and a part for lock pin 170 just stretches out and meshes with lockhole 156 from locking channel 164 like this.

When wanting transportation or depositing walking aid assembly 100, by being folded into compact arrangement, can reduce the lateral dimension of walking aid assembly 100.And, user is a folding rack 116a first therein, on 116b or tie-rod 118, upwards push away, can realize and walking aid assembly 100 is folded into the orientation of depositing of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 from the operative orientation (wherein foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies are relative to each other the orientation of angle substantially) of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3.When tie-rod 118 moves up, the first and second back leg 120a, 120b round with the first and second upper member 122a, the second end 126a of 122b, the pivoting point that 126b is adjacent, to the first and second foreleg 110a, 110b rotates.The first and second back leg 120a, 120b will inwardly rotate, until the framework of walking aid assembly configures in the mode shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, wherein foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies are along the length substantial alignment of framework or alignment at least in part.Walking aid, shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, does not have storage box 148, to more clearly represent folding operation.

In order further to reduce the longitudinal size of collapsible walking aid 100, user can be by the first and second back leg 120a, the bottom 130a of 120b, and 130b and wheel assembly associated therewith 180 are inwardly folding towards each other.When in this folding position, bottom 130a and 130b and respective wheel assembly 180 thereof are arranged to each other substantially relation in an overlapping, as shown in Figure 8.For the first lower member 130a is folded in to deposit position, first by button 172, the centrage towards collapsible walking aid 100 inwardly pulls user.In doing so, user compresses spring 174, and lock pin 170 is departed from from the lockhole 156 of top 152a, as shown in Figure 6 b.At lock pin 170 after lockhole 156 departs from, bottom 160a is around axis 166 pivotables (Fig. 6 c), thereby allow lower member 130a to be swung or pivotable, from the top with back leg 120a as shown in Figure 7, be co-axially align relation and become deposit position as mentioned above and as shown in Figure 8.The second hinge assembly 150b is carried out to similar step, make lower member 130b can swing to deposit position.

Once user's button release 172, spring 174 just makes lock pin 170 go out to wide-spread position from core 162 is pushed outwards.For wheel locking is in place to reuse, user can be by the first lower member 130a from the downward pivotable of deposit position, until lock pin 170 is encountered cam surface 158, as shown in Fig. 6 d.Along with lower member 130a is rotated further with upper member 122a, align, lock pin 170 is advanced along cam surface 158, makes subsequently spring 174 compressed, and the bottom 160a that impels button 172 to deviate from the first hinge assembly 150a moves.Finally, due to the bias effect of spring 174, lock pin 170 is encountered lockhole 156 and is extended through wherein, as shown in Figure 6 a.After lower member 130b is similarly located, impel the first and second foreleg 110a, 110b and the first and second back leg 120a, 120b outwards moves away from one another, thereby makes folding rack 116a, and 116b becomes and fully stretches.Lower member 130a, 130b locates like this, and collapsible walking aid 100 is just configured to assisted user walking.

Preferably, lock pin 170 is configured to unlikely inadvertently from lockhole 156, depart from.For example, as shown in Fig. 6 a to 6d, button 172 is shaped to the shape with low section, therefore is in use not easy to be impeded or pull.And preferably, the part that button 172 is hinged assembly 150 is blocked.As shown in Fig. 6 a the best, button 172 is hinged the partial occlusion that holds axle 166 of assembly 150a.Yet button is as shown in the figure an embodiment, also can expect a lot of other shapes.

Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown in Fig. 9 to Figure 14, can replace at least in part as described above, as hinge assembly 150A that above-mentioned accompanying drawing was shown specifically and the use of 150B.More particularly, in order to make the configuration of walking aid assembly 100 compact and reduce at least longitudinal size of its framework, and also reduce possibly its lateral dimension, can remove front component and wheel assembly from foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies.For the sake of clarity, the structure shown in Fig. 9 to Figure 14 has only presented single lower shank.Yet, need emphasize, when describing this concrete structure, each foreleg and back leg 114A, 114B, 132A, 132B is copy and/or equivalent structures each other, like this description of a lower shank is just meaned and has described each corresponding lower limb structure.Further, member 200 defines each fore wheel structure 188 and the fastening outward extending axle on it of rear-wheel structure 180.

Therefore,, as being clearly shown that in Figure 10 to Figure 13, the lateral dimension of axle 200 is at least less than the inner transversal dimension of bottom 114A of foreleg assembly and rear leg assemblies etc. on bottom line.As by by Figure 10 to Figure 11 and Figure 12 unassembled as shown in respectively and assembly structure compare and show, this relative size makes axle 200 can be inserted into the inside of bottom 114A etc. and therefrom remove.Further, axle 200 comprises that spring biasing refers to 202, these springs biasings refer to the inner surface 204 of the bottom along lower limb 114A etc. through time, the inside of regracting axle 200 at least partly.Yet, spring biasing refer to 202 align with axial hole 206 after, these refer to that 202 will stretch out, thereby axle 200 are locked removedly or remained in the inside of lower limb bottom 114A etc.By referring to that 202 to intrinsic pressure, make it from hole 206, shift out and allow to slide along inner surface 204, with regard to having realized, axle 200 is shifted out from the inside of lower limb bottom 114A etc.Yet once refer to that 202 align with hole 206 and stretch out from these holes, the hole 208 and 210 being formed at respectively in axle 200 and lower limb bottom 114A etc. will be axially aligned.This axially aligning between hole 208 and 210, can contribute to stop connector or support 220 to be connected to the stop position of expection, as shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14 the best.

More particularly, stop connector or support 220 comprise from cranking arm and 224 being connected or latch 222 with 226 inside separated centers.224 and 226 free ends separately of cranking arm are arranged as the relation of separating that is each other, so that lower shank 114A etc. are through therebetween and enter between the inside 228 and arm 224 and 226 of stop connecting-piece structure 220.Further, stop connector or support 220 preferably include the arm 224 and 226 being formed by flexible material, thereby can outwards launch, thereby further contribute to lower shank 114A etc. through among the inside 208 of stop connector 220.In the link position shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14, latch 222 is therefore through the hole 208 and 210 of axially aligning.And latch 222 preferably has sufficient length, to pass outwards through from outmost hole 210 ', as shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14.

Other architectural feature comprises the Handleset that axial scalable is removable, and it comprises that adjustable ground is connected to each foreleg 110a respectively, the first end 112a of 110b, the first and second handgrip 140a of 112b, 140b.The first and second handgrip 140a, 140b is connected to the first and second foreleg 110a, and 110b is upper, so just can the height based on user carry out axial adjustment handgrip.And, each handgrip 140a, 140b comprises bar 184, this bar is used for starting the brake 182 adjacent with wheel assembly 180.By impelling bar 184 towards corresponding handgrip 140a, 140b moves up, and pulls cable 186, this cable and then make brake 182 and wheel assembly 180 engagements, thus prevent that collapsible walking aid 100 from rolling.Further, these bars 184 can be handled, although user no longer applies power on bar 184 like this, brake 182 is still activated.

Mainly, with reference to Figure 15 to Figure 24, the present invention includes another most preferred embodiment, it comprises the general movable support assembly with 300 expressions.And, as following, will illustrate in greater detail, depend on generally at least one adjustabel part of framework or the layout of adjustable frame section 370 with 302 expressions, movable support assembly 300 is optionally used as walking aid or wheelchair and shows versatility significantly.For the sake of clarity, Figure 15 shows other structures of adjustable frame section 370 and movable support assembly 300 and the orientation of functional unit, so that use as wheelchair.By contrast, Figure 16 and Figure 17 show framework 302, comprise particularly adjustabel part or other structures of adjustable frame section 370 and movable support assembly 300 and the orientation of functional unit, so that use as walking aid.

Details comprises more specifically: framework 302 comprises two separated side frame sections 304 and 306, and each side frame section comprises substantially the configuration of oval or " eye " shape.This configuration of each side frame section limits by upper side frame section 308 and lower side frame section 310 bent outward archwises or curved configuration at least in part.As following, will illustrate in greater detail, side frame section 304 and 306, more particularly go up side frame section 308 and lower side frame section 310 can comprise syndeton 312,313,315 and 319, these syndetons contribute to movable support assembly 300(specifically to comprise the each several part of framework 302) arrange or be set to the orientation of depositing of compact, size reduction, depositing, transportation etc., this is similar to one or more embodiment of Fig. 1 to Figure 14 at least in part.By main, with reference to the movable support assembly 300 shown in Figure 20 to Figure 24, illustrate in greater detail and deposit orientation below.

Movable support assembly 300 further comprises the general Handleset with 314 expressions, this Handleset comprises two handles 316 that are the relation of being spaced from each other, so just can between them, form open space 318, so that a people places oneself in the midst of proper orientation, thereby when movable support assembly 300 is used as shown in figure 15 wheelchair or is used as walking aid as shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17, advance movable support assembly.As following, will be described more specifically and describe, when framework 302 or its at least one or more construction package are optionally arranged to be convenient to use movable support assembly 300 as walking aid, more easily enter interval 318.

Other features of Handleset 314 comprise: preferably, two handles 316 have preferably the handgrip 317 with handle formal construction separately.In addition,, referring to figs. 1 through the embodiment of Fig. 3, Handleset 314 can comprise that these brake structurals can operate for starting the bar 184 of one or more brake structurals 182, to apply brake force on wheel assembly 320.And brake structural 182 can be arranged to be operative relationship with the trailing wheel 330 of the embodiment of Figure 15 to Figure 17.Although the brake assembly of this hand starting or operation is not shown in the embodiment of Figure 15 to Figure 20, but can easily make it be adapted to connect or be arranged on movable support assembly 300, to brake assembly 182 is carried out to hands actuating, as specifically referring to figs. 1 through as described in the embodiment of Fig. 3.Thereby, bar 184, towards upwards operation of corresponding handgrip 317, is used for pulling mechanical connection cable 186, this cable and then make trailing wheel 330 engagements of brake 182 and wheel assembly 329, thereby the movement of moving-limiting supporting component 300.In the preferred embodiment of Figure 15 to Figure 20, while not using hand starting brake assembly or brake 182, can use foot to start brake assembly, wherein foot starting bar 332 is associated with the brake structural that is arranged on or is connected on each trailing wheel 330.

As also clearly described in Figure 15 to Figure 17 and Figure 20, movable support assembly 300 also comprises front component 334, and front component comprises the front-wheel 336 that is connected to foreleg, and foreleg is limited by the bottom of upper side frame section 308 at least in part.For the sake of clarity, framework 302 can also be described as comprising rear afterbody and front pilot, wherein word " rear tail " and " leading " be with reference to movable support assembly 300(no matter as walking aid or wheelchair is used) the normal or conventional direction forward of advancing.More particularly, the front pilot of framework 302 is substantially at least in part by comprising that the position of the front component 334 of front-wheel 336 limits.By contrast, the afterbody of framework 302 limits by the position of Handleset 314, wheel assembly 329 and/or back leg 333 substantially at least in part.

For the ease of handling movable support assembly 300, the castor type structure that each front-wheel 336 is shown specifically by Figure 18 is rotatably connected to framework 302, more specifically interconnects with outer end or the lower end of upper side frame section 308.More particularly, be connected to castor base portion or housing 340 that each takes turns 336 rotation axis, allow suitably rotation of wheel, thereby present desirable movable support assembly 300 forward, backward or other directions hope angle orientation of advancing.As mentioned above, the propulsive force that is applied to Handleset 314 can be thrust, pulling force or the combination of the two, to realize the direction of the selection of hope, advances.

With further reference to Figure 18, at least one preferred embodiment of movable support assembly 300 and/or constructional variant comprise the general pedal with 342 expressions or similar foot support assembly.Foot support assembly 342 comprises tread portion 344 and support arm 346.Support arm 346 is by general being rotatably connected assembly or pivot hinge rotatably or being pivotably connected to as the lower end of the upperside frame of 308 expressions with 348 expressions.Thereby shank or foot support assembly 342 can be pivoted to the operating position shown in Figure 18 or folding stowed position as shown in figure 15 (limiting at least in part the orientation of depositing of movable support assembly), or from described position pivotable out.As mentioned above, below, the orientation of depositing of movable support assembly 300 will be illustrated in greater detail.

As mentioned above, movable support assembly 300 is optionally used as the walking aid shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17 or as the wheelchair shown in Figure 15, has promoted its versatility.Therefore, mainly with reference to Figure 15, movable support assembly 300 comprises the general chair assembly with 350 expressions, and this chair assembly comprises seat 352 and back support 354.Seat 352 is supported by least a portion of framework 302, the part of more specifically being arranged by the upper end (or top) of back leg structure 333 or other cooperations of the inner (or inner) 333' and framework 302, for example one or more stulls or cross member 335 support.Seat 352 is connected to framework 302 in this way, to be supported on securely on framework 302, unless until or seat-assembly 350 from framework 302 dismounting or separated.

By contrast, preferably round lower joint or join domain 360 movably or attached pivotly, this region is positioned in each lower comer adjacent with the junction of seat 352 and back support 354 haply of back support 354 back support 354.And when adjustabel part or adjustable frame section 370 are arranged in first orientation as shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17, back support 354 can be positioned same in the orientation shown in Figure 16 and Figure 17.Thereby the first orientation of adjustable frame section 370 is conducive to or movable support assembly 300 can be used as walking aid as shown in figure.By contrast, adjustable frame section 370 can be arranged in the second orientation shown in Figure 15, wherein adjustable frame section 370 be arranged to substantially to align with Handleset 314 and the handle 316 that separates at each between interval 318 in.

Movable support assembly of the present invention comprises another structure, and this structure contributes to by adjustable frame section 370 securely but be arranged in removedly each the first and second orientation.More particularly, mainly with reference to Figure 16, Figure 21 and Figure 24, each armrest 380 comprises the general outer end with 390 expressions, and this outer end has indentation district 392, thereby forms as the outside of 394 expressions and/or to the outstanding lip of side or similar structures.As shown in Figure 16 the best, each of the handrail separating 380 of positioned opposite is inwardly arranged to be interruption relation with the relative edge of adjustable frame section 370 in outstanding end 390.Therefore, when frame section 370 is during in above-mentioned first orientation, each limit is against the extending internally or the outstanding lip 394 of outstanding end 390 of each handrail 380, and by outstanding lip stop.With further reference to Figure 16, by outward extending hook-shaped support or similar structures 396 are provided, as shown in figure 20, adjustable frame section 370 remains on second orientation.Each support 396 is attached in one of two side member that separate of adjustable frame section 370.Further, near the upper end that each support 396 is arranged to represent as 310' at it with lower side frame section 310, mesh.Therefore, when adjustable frame section 370 is during in second orientation, outward extending support 396 separately with the upper end 310 ' engagement of the relevant position of lower side frame section 310, so that adjustable frame section 370 and handle 316 are to basic alignment relation and remain between handle 316.

Also need to emphasize, the configuration of handrail 380, size and arrangement determined when above-mentioned first orientation, and for example, when movable support assembly 300 is used as walking aid, the position of adjustable frame section 370 and/or angle tilt.Further emphasize, hook-shaped support 396 can be various structural configuration, for example, have the U-shaped structure of certain intrinsic flexibility or biasing, to be effectively clipped in or be otherwise connected to removedly as mentioned above the upper end 310' of lower side frame section 310.

Therefore, the first orientation of adjustable frame section 370 limits in the following manner: adjustable frame section is towards the front pilot of framework 302, and the rear afterbody of away from frame and Handleset 314, be inwardly angle ground directed substantially.The first orientation of adjustable frame section 370 further limits in the following manner: when back support 354 is arranged to seat 352 in the face of engagement (as Figure 16 and Figure 17 clearly as shown in), adjustable frame section is substantially the relation separating of overlooking above seat 352 and back support 354.Therefore,, when movable support assembly 300 is intended as walking aid, the adjustable frame section 370 in first orientation allows to touch through super-interval 318 outer surface of back support 354.Thereby back support 354 can be used as auxiliary seat or similar Support, individual has a rest in the above at the position of can taking to take one's seat.Meanwhile, can mat or liner 372 be installed in the upper end of adjustabel part or frame section 370, when a people is supported in back support 354 with the orientation of taking one's seat, be used as backrest to this people.

Mainly with reference to Figure 15, adjustable frame section 370, when second orientation, erectly arranges substantially in interval 318, is alignment relation with Handleset 314 and the handle 316 that separates.Similarly, back support 354 is arranged in straight orientation as shown in the figure, and when in second orientation, can be supported at least in part in adjustable frame section 370 or supported by adjustable frame section.Thereby, easily touch chair assembly 350, thereby can and contribute to as described above movable support assembly to be used as wheelchair.

At least in part with the embodiment of Fig. 1 to Figure 14 similarly other structures comprise with performance characteristic: by being convenient to vertically to adjust that each handle 316 is vertical adjusts or remove Handleset 314.Thereby, the elongate portion of handle 316 can comprise a plurality of as 319 holes that represent, each hole can hold the spring biasing locking component 321 being disposed in the inner or lower side frame section 310 upper end 310' of the elongate portion 316 ' of handle 316, so that vertically adjust handle or handgrip portion 317.Figure 24 shows the constructional variant of Handleset 314 and the part that is associated of framework.As disclosed above, each handle 316 can be next-door neighbour's relation with the upper end 310 ' of lower side frame section 310 and be connected thereto, rather than axially aligns and be attached thereto as shown in Figure 16,19 and 20.In arbitrary structural change, handle 316 all can vertically or longitudinally be adjusted along its corresponding length, to be suitable for different people, makes people in can advance the position of movable support assembly 300 in any preferred orientations.Figure 16 and Figure 17 have further shown the adjustable characteristics of Handleset 314, and wherein each handle 316 is positioned at different height.Biasing locking component 321 departs from from any hole 319, allows handle 316 to remove completely from framework.

As mentioned above, the present invention constructs by its multipurpose and the structuring of various parts, so that easily, rapidly movable support assembly 300 is arranged in and deposits orientation, has shown significant versatility.Thereby, below will illustrate in greater detail various parts and can optionally from its normal operative orientation (no matter movable support assembly 300 is as walker or wheelchair use), be arranged to compact orientation, to limit and deposit orientation at least in part.

For example, back leg 333 and trailing wheel associated therewith 330 interconnects adjustably with the remainder of framework 302, more specifically, and interconnects adjustably for the frame section 333' of supporting chair 352 at least in part.This is adjustable, movably interconnection is by providing hinge type connecting-piece structure 319 to realize, described structure allows back leg 333 inwardly to fold under the part being associated with seat 352 that is located substantially on seat 352 or framework 302.

Each several part or the parts of in Figure 22 to Figure 24, further having shown framework 302 are optionally positioned the above-mentioned orientation of depositing.As shown in FIG., depositing orientation can also limit at least in part in the following manner: the upper end 308' of back support 354, adjustable frame section 70, handle 316 and upper side frame section 308 and lower side frame section 310 and 310' arrange with predetermined relationship each other respectively, and this will illustrate in greater detail below.More particularly, and with reference to Figure 24, the fixed interconnection components of framework 302 comprises and is connected to the upper end 310 ' of the upper end 308 ' of side frame section the handrail 380 being supported by described upper end and lower side frame section and the handle 316 of location correspondingly.This component set represents framework 302 " subelement ", should " subelement " can between the stowed position shown in the operative orientation shown in Figure 20 and Figure 22, collectively locate, and each portion of its middle frame 302 is the above-mentioned orientation of depositing.

In order to realize the compacted location of the subelement shown in Figure 24, arrange and constructed a plurality of connectors 313 and 315, for the subelement of Figure 24 is connected to the remainder of framework 302 movably or adjustably.More particularly, as shown in figure 23, connector 312 is separable, and comprises removable attachment 313' and 313''.Firm but the removable connection of linkage section 313' and 313'' or attached can realization by stop connector or the support 220 of the detailed disclosure and description of embodiment with as with reference to Fig. 9 to Figure 14.Thereby the central component being associated with the stop connector 220 separating or axle 222 pass and are formed at the hole 312 in linkage section 313', and in the inside of the section of extending to 313''.When in the connection shown in Figure 23 or during rigging position, cranking arm of each stop connector 220 separating 224 and 226 thereafter can be around described section of 313' and 313''.The removing of stop connector 220 can allow, and described section of 313' is separated with 313'', and wherein as Figure 22 is disclosed, section 313'' regularly or be integrally connected to the upper end 308 ' of side frame section.In addition, as Figure 22 clearly discloses, constructed hinge type connector 315, like this when back support 354 and adjustable frame section 370 are arranged to be and overlook and/or when being related to seat 352, the upper end 310' of lower side frame section 310 is with seat 352 and back support 354 and adjustable frame section 370 relation of overlooking with regard to inside pivotable.

It should be understood that Figure 22 discloses is arranged in a wherein subelement only compacted location, shown in Figure 24.Yet Figure 22 is intended to represent to be positioned at structure and the performance characteristic of subelement of two positioned opposite opposite side, shown in Figure 24 of movable support assembly 300.Thereby two subelements of Figure 24 are inside pivotable or be collapsible into compacted location all, to limit at least in part above-mentioned deposit position.

It will also be appreciated that adjustable frame section 370 conventionally or typically the inside outstanding lip 394 of the end 390 by each handrail 380 remain on its first orientation, as shown in figure 16.Yet, in order to make adjustable frame section 370 be the position shown in Figure 22, can force outwards mobile at least minimum distance of handrail 380, make like this sidepiece 370 ' of adjustable frame section 370 can cross the inside outstanding end 390 of each handrail 380, and be the folding or stowed position shown in Figure 22.

Some parts of framework 302 or part are optionally arranged in to stowed position efficiently, to limit the orientation of depositing that size significantly reduces, thereby are convenient to very much depositing or transporting of movable support assembly 300.In addition, whole configuration and the size of movable support assembly 300 reduce greatly, with allow to place it in little deposit or suitcase or container in, described case or container have and make movable support assembly 300 in the size of effectively and efficiently depositing or transporting when depositing orientation.

Another most preferred embodiment of the present invention comprise be mainly walking aid kit form, generally with the movable support assembly of 400 expressions.Movable support assembly 400 comprises generally the framework with 402 expressions, this belfry become to comprise as the other preferred embodiment of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 clearly disclosed seat 142 and be positioned at seat 142 belows depend on case 148.For the clear various parts of describing framework 402 exactly, seat 142 and case 148 are not shown in Figure 25 to Figure 27.Yet, should emphasize, as following, will become obviously, whole frame structure is clearly adapted to take in seat 142, case 148 and armrest part 146.More particularly, seat 142 is designed to the connection strap by as shown in Figure 1 to Figure 3 or is connected to or is partly supported on crossbeam 404 by other suitable syndetons.Thereby case 148 will be positioned at seat 142 belows, and and seat 142 be certain relations of dependence and between crossbeam 404.

Further, framework 402 comprises back support member 406, and back support pad 146 is arranged on back support member.Framework also comprises the general front component with 408 expressions and the general wheel assembly with 410 expressions.Identical with the embodiment of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, foreleg assembly 408 comprises two lower limbs that separate 409, and these lower limbs have different size and/or configuration with respect to the embodiment of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3.

More particularly, each lower limb 409 comprise elongated top or principal part 409' with regularly or the bottom 412 being connected integratedly.As Figure 25 to Figure 27 is shown clearly in, top 409' is angularly directed with respect to bottom 412.Further, when framework 402 is arranged in as shown in drawings upright operation orientation, bottom 412 is arranged in upright or vertical orientation at least partly substantially.By contrast, these two lower limbs that separate 411 limit rear leg assemblies 410 at least in part.Back leg 411 is that in the difference aspect size and configuration back leg has substantially linear elongated configuration, has the longitudinal size of the overall length that is greater than foreleg 409 with foreleg 409.Therefore, each back leg 411 comprises the bottom 413 being disposed aligned with its principal part or upper axial.

As mentioned above, as shown in Figure 25 to Figure 27, framework 402 does not comprise each front component 420 and wheel assembly 420 '.Specifically, with reference to Figure 28, as shown in the embodiment of Fig. 1 to Fig. 3 similarly, lower limb 409 and 411 comprises front component 420 and the wheel assembly that is connected respectively to respective lower 412 and 413 separately.Wheel assembly 420' has the wheel construction 422 of elongated connecting axle 200 ' and suitable size separately.And the foreleg 409 of foreleg assembly 408 comprises the wheel assembly 420 that is fastened to its underpart 412 separately.Similarly, back leg 411 comprises the independent wheel assembly 420' that is connected to its underpart 413 separately.Therefore, can say so, supporting component 400 has the wheel assembly that is connected to the bottom 412 of corresponding foreleg 409 and back leg 411 and front component 413, that limited by two wheel assemblies 420 and is limited by two other wheel assembly 420'.

A feature of the walking aid of movable support assembly 400 is: can, with respect to any stayed surface of the positioning framework thereon 402 as shown in Figure 25 to Figure 27, adjust efficiently the height of framework 402.Therefore, no matter user/individual stands or is sitting on seat 142 with respect to supporting component 400, and the individual of being convenient to different height and stature with respect to the height of any stayed surface change framework 402 uses.The respective lower 412 and 413 that is connected to removedly adjustably foreleg 409 and back leg 411 by front component 420 and wheel assembly 420' and each wheel construction 422 associated therewith, has realized this variable height adjustment of framework 402.

For the sake of clarity, the structure shown in Figure 30 to Figure 32 is used for describing the single lower shank in lower shank 412 and 413.Yet, should emphasize, when describing this concrete structure, at least setting up aspect adjustable interconnect with in wheel construction 422 and the axle 200 ' that is associated corresponding one, foreleg 409 and back leg 411 are all copy or equivalent structures each other.Therefore, the description of a lower shank 412 or 413 is just meaned and described each corresponding lower limb structure.

Therefore, the lateral dimension of each axle 200 ' at least minimally be less than the bottom 412 of foreleg 409 and back leg 411 and 413 inner transversal dimension.As by by Figure 30 to Figure 32 unassembled as shown in respectively and assembly structure compare and show, this relative size makes axle 200 ' can be inserted into the inside of bottom 412 and 413 and therefrom remove.Further, axle 200 ' comprises that spring biasing refers to 202 ', these springs biasings refer to the inner surface 204 ' of the bottom 412 along foreleg and back leg and 413 through time at least part of regracting axle 200 ' inside.Yet, spring biasing refer to 202 ' align with axial hole 206 ' after, these refer to that 202 ' will stretch out, thereby axle 200 ' is locked removedly or remained in the inside of bottom 412 and 413.By referring to that 202 ' to intrinsic pressure, it is shifted out from hole 206 ' and allows to slide along inner surface 204 ', with regard to having realized, axle 200 ' 412 and 413 inside is shifted out from bottom.Once refer to that 202 ' aligns with hole 206 ' and stretch out from these holes, the hole 208 ' and 210 ' being formed at respectively in axle 200 ' and bottom 412 and 413 will be axially aligned.This between hole 208 ' and 210 ' axially aligned the stop position that can contribute to stop connector or support 220 ' to be connected to expection, as shown in figure 29.

Rely on this adjustable variable connection as shown in Figure 30 to Figure 32, only by referring to that 202' is placed in different holes or paired hole 206', just can easily change or adjust for example height when the operating position in as shown in Figure 25 to 27 of framework 402, to be adapted to the user of various statures and height.For the ease of framework 402 is adjusted into different height, bottom 412 and 413 or other parts of lower limb 409 and 411 comprise a plurality of this paired hole 206'.Therefore, corresponding wheel assembly 420 and 420 ' each lower limb in can the respective leg from the lower limb 409 of foreleg assembly 408 and the lower limb 411 of rear leg assemblies 410 outwards and along its length extends.This variable stretching out schematically shows with direction arrow 430 in Figure 28.

Mainly, with reference to Figure 29, arrange and constructed stop connector or support 220 ', so reliably but kept removedly wheel assembly 420 and 420 ' with foreleg assembly 408 and the respective leg 409 and 411 of rear leg assemblies 410 between expection be connected.Therefore, stop connector 220 ' is included in the center connecting pin 222' separating on the inside of crank arm 224' and 226'.This embodiment but function class different from the stop connector shown in Fig. 9 or support 220 structures seemingly.Thereby arbitrary embodiment of connection bracket all can together be used from the one or more embodiment in different preferred embodiments as the present invention described herein.

More particularly, crank arm 224' and 226' has enough longitudinal sizes, so as around as 412,413 forelegs that represent and a part for back leg, thereby when assembled shaft 200 ' as shown in Figure 29 and 32 and shank 412,413 o'clock, connecting pin 222 ' extend through aligning at shank 412, during the hole 208' of the hole 210 ' forming in 413 and formation in axle 200 ', further contribute to connecting pin 222 ' to put into the stop position of its expection.In addition, 224' and the 226' free end separately of cranking arm comprises connector or pallet structure 415, and this connector or pallet structure make free end be connected to each other and to go up removedly.At free end, pallet structure 415 being set is further used for making stop connector or support 220 ' to remain on the operating position of its expection.And, during the operating position of latch 222 ' in Figure 29, as mentioned above, be used for preventing that axle 200 ' from inadvertently shifting out or relative localization from the expection stop position within respective leg portions 412,413.

In Figure 33 and Figure 34, shown another feature of the present invention.More particularly, movable support assembly 400 and framework 402 comprise the general carriage assembly with 450 expressions.Carriage assembly 450 is interconnected between foreleg assembly 408 and rear leg assemblies 410 removedly.In most preferred embodiment, as shown in Figure 25 to Figure 27, be provided with two this carriage assemblys 450.Yet, be mainly the movable support assembly 400 that can pack up walking aid kit form and can only comprise single carriage assembly 450, be also in the scope of spirit of the present invention.

When framework 402 is during in operating position, carriage assembly 450 presents substantially elongated linear configuration, comprises that brace sections 454 and 456 is arranged to substantially be each other linear alignment relation.Further, brace sections 454 and 456 separately contrary outer far-end be connected to movably pivotly or otherwise respectively the respective leg 409 and 411 of foreleg assembly 408 and rear leg assemblies 410.Brace sections 454 with 456 separately the relative correspondingly interior near-end of location by pivot or chain pin 459, be connected to each other and go up movably pivotly or otherwise.

And when framework 402 is arranged to deposit orientation from the operating position shown in Figure 25 to Figure 27 and Figure 33, brace sections 454 and 456 will be folding position.As direction arrow 460 schematically shows, by moving upward of carriage assembly 450, more specifically understand its folding position.Therefore, when in pack up completely deposit orientation time, foreleg assembly 408 and rear leg assemblies 410 are arranged in some alignment or at least common position of extending as clearly shown in the embodiment of Fig. 7 and Fig. 8.In this orientation of depositing, brace sections 454 and 456 is some alignment arranging with common extension each other as shown in figure 34 also.For by carriage assembly 450, more specifically brace sections 454 and 456 remains on folding position, thereby framework 402 is remained on to it, deposits orientation, is provided with generally the locked component with 452 expressions.

Locked component 452 comprises female member or recess 462, and this female member or recess comprise the flange with hole 462 ', is connected to as one of them brace sections of 454 expressions and can moves along with this brace sections.Locked component 452 further comprises protuberance or convex component 464, and this protuberance or convex component comprise and referring to or pin 464 ', are connected in two brace sections as 456 another brace sections that represent also can move along with this brace sections.When carriage assembly 450 is during in linear alignment operating position shown in Figure 33, recess 462 and protuberance 464 are arranged with spaced relation.Yet when carriage assembly 450 is configured to allow framework 402 to be to deposit orientation, brace sections 454 and 456 will be arranged in common position of extending at least partly as shown in figure 34.In such position, recess 462 can reach the degree with protuberance 464 substantial alignment, so that they can enter each other movably stop engagement.

More particularly, recess 462 comprises porose flange, and protuberance 464 comprises the retractible finger 464 ' of spring biasing.When hole 462 ' is arranged to and is connected or when stop refers to that 464' is alignment relation, as direction arrow 465 schematically shows, with reversible or retractible mode, handle protuberance 464, will play stop is referred to the 464 ' effect through hole 462 '.Thereby recess 462 and protuberance 464 will link together removedly, contribute to brace sections 454 and 456 to remain on folding position.While being held in place like this, front leg portions 408 and rear shank 410 will be " locked " is depositing orientation.For by framework 402, more specifically front leg portions 408 and rear shank 410 are redirected its operating position as shown in figure 33, can realize the protuberance 464 of manual control spring biasing, at least reach stop is referred to the degree that 464' shifts out from hole 462 ', thereby brace sections 454 and 456 is discharged each other and allow it to present operation linear configuration.

Under the condition of spirit, principle and desired extent that does not depart from these embodiment, can to folding walking aid 100 and 400 and above-described embodiment of Multipurpose mobile supporting component 300 make a lot of variations and modification.Owing to can described preferred embodiment of the present invention being made to a lot of detailed modification, variation and changes, therefore above explanation neutralization all things shown in the drawings all should be interpreted as illustrative and unrestricted meaning.Therefore, scope of the present invention should be as the criterion with appended claims and legal equivalents thereof.

Mainly, with reference to Figure 35 to Figure 39, another preferred embodiment of movable support assembly of the present invention is generally with 500 expressions.Thereby movable support assembly 500 comprises the general frame assembly with 502 expressions, this frame assembly comprises two laterally spaced side assemblies 504 and 506.Side assemblies can have the elongated frame section 508 of most of length of at least having extended corresponding side assemblies 504 and 506 separately.Lower end separately of frame section 508 or support end to comprise to be connected with bearing wheel, as the bifurcation structure of 510 expressions or structure.

More particularly, support wheel comprises the general front component with 512 expressions and the general wheel assembly with 514 expressions.Front component 512 and wheel assembly 514 are connected to the corresponding lower bifurcation 510' of portion and the 510'' of the frame section 508 of each side assemblies 504 and 506 separately.As described in more detail with reference to Figure 13 and 14, by connection bracket or similar component 220, realized the removable connection clearly representing as Figure 36 here.The preferred feature of front component 512 is the formal constructions with castor, and wherein coupling bar 513 is used for by each castor 514' movably, rotatably and/or be pivotably connected to hub 516 is installed.No matter people is usingd the orientation of standing movable support assembly 500 is used as walking aid, or usining the orientation of taking one's seat uses it as mobile chair, use castor to be all convenient to it and turn to and handle on front portion, rear portion or the front pilot of movable support assembly 500.

Especially (but non-exclusive) when a people is when standing orientation, for movable support assembly 500 is suitably turned to and/or handled, frame assembly 502 comprises a pair of handle arrangement 520.Each handle arrangement 520 is adjustable ground and may be connected to removedly correspondingly the frame section 508 of arranging.Therefore, the user of movable support assembly 500 can make that each handle 520 is mutual to raise irrelevantly or reduce.This contributes to each Handleset 520 from the remainder of frame assembly 502 enough distances that stretches out, to be especially adapted to a people's height, stature etc. when walking orientation.Further, handle arrangement 520 can comprise handle 520' and brake monitor 520'' separately, and described brake monitor can be handled by a corresponding hands of people, so that movable support assembly 500 is braked when motion.Further, by comprising elongate rod or the similar component with a plurality of holes or notch 522', can optionally change 522 handle arrangements 520 from the height of the remainder of frame assembly 502 or outside distance.Notch or hole 522' arrange or are configured to and are arranged on the spring connector of the handle 524 in each the frame section 508 being associated with each side assemblies 504 and 506 and/or adjust knob interaction.

Side direction side assemblies 504 adjustable and/or optionally location and 506 is by the interconnection each other movably of the general adjustment linkage with 540 expressions.More particularly, adjust linkage 540 and comprise two elongated link components 542 and 544, each link component comprises first-phase opposite end 546 and second-phase opposite end 548.As shown in all these accompanying drawings, each the first-phase opposite end 546 being associated from each elongated link component 542 and 544 and second-phase opposite end 548 directly or are indirectly connected on different side assemblies 504 and 506 movably.More particularly, connecting rod 542 and 544 first-phase opposite end 546 is separately directly connected to a respective side portion assembly in side assemblies 504 and 506 by the connector 549 of pivotable substantially.By contrast, link component 542 and 544 second-phase opposite end 548 separately interconnects with a respective side portion assembly in side assemblies 504 and 506 movably or pivotly by the attached connecting rod 550 of different correspondingly location.Further, the side installation portion of second-phase opposite end 548 end separately and the seat 554 being generally associated with the chair assembly of 552 expressions with framework 502 or similar portions 551 are direct supporting relation and are connected.Equally as shown in the figure, when in operative orientation, although in fact link component 542 and 544 the second end 548 separately may not mesh with corresponding side assemblies 504 and 506, enters the relation of facing with side assemblies, outwards promotes because described the second end deviates from ground each other by seat end 551.

Mainly, with reference to Figure 35, movable support assembly 500 and frame assembly 502 illustrate with operating position.By contrast, Figure 38 and Figure 39 show movable support assembly 500 and the orientation of frame assembly 502 in packing up at least partly.Therefore, packing up orientation limits at least in part in the following manner: elongated link component 542 and 544 is arranged to relative to each other substantially be adjacent to longitudinally alignment or directed.The packing up orientation and can also be described as with frame assembly 502 and compare when the operative orientation of frame assembly 502, side assemblies 504 and 506 first-phase opposite end 546 is separately arranged to the spaced or segment distance of being separated by.Similarly, in the orientation of packing up of frame assembly 502, compare when the operative orientation with frame assembly 502, side assemblies 504 and 506 second-phase opposite end 548 is separately arranged to spaced or has a segment distance of being separated by.By contrast, the operative orientation of Figure 35 and Figure 37 shows elongated link component 542 and 544 in lateral extension or launches orientation.Thereby when in operative orientation, two side assemblies 504 and 506 are arranged to be each other maximum laterally spaced relation.By contrast, packing up or packing up at least partly orientation, layout with the maximum of side assemblies 504 operative orientation in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 with 506 during laterally spaced the relation is compared, and side assemblies 504 and 506 is arranged to be each other the substantially adjacent but greatly close relation that separates.

Term used herein " maximum laterally spaced " relation is intended to describe when frame assembly 502 is during in operative orientation, link component 542 and 544 by side assemblies 504 and 506 when separated from one another the maximum distance of energy lateral extension." maximum laterally spaced " relation of the operative orientation of frame assembly 502 can also be described as with frame assembly 502 to be compared in packing up orientation, and the spaced larger distance in side assemblies 504 and 506 first-phase opposite end 546 separately or " maximum " distance ground are arranged.Similarly, " maximum laterally spaced " relation of the operative orientation of frame assembly 502 can also be described as with frame assembly 502 to be compared when packing up orientation, and side assemblies 504 and 506 second-phase opposite end 548 separately is also arranged to spaced larger distance or " maximum " distance.Thereby identical with the side assemblies 504 and 506 that is attached with adjustably link component 542 and 544, link component 542 and 544 first-phase opposite end 546 and second-phase opposite end 548 are arranged with maximum lateral spacing each other.

With reference to Figure 36, as mentioned above, front component 512 and wheel assembly 514 are connected to framework 502 separately removedly.Thereby, above-mentioned pack up orientation can also be at least in part by side assemblies 504 and 506 with substantially or at least partly adjacent laterally spaced relation close to each other limit and wheel assembly 512 and 514 and possibly Handleset 520 from the remainder of framework 502, disconnect limiting.

About chair assembly 552, seat 554 is interconnected between side assemblies 504 and 506, and is supported by elongated link component 542 and 544 second-phase opposite end 548 separately in outward extending orientation.Similarly, generally with the backrest of 555 expressions, its opposite end adjustably or be fixedly connected on the different lateral assembly in side assemblies 504 and 506.Therefore, when the elongated connecting rod 542 due to interconnection and the expansion of 544 side direction or stretching, extension, when side assemblies 504 and 506 is arranged with its maximum laterally spaced relation, can be by enough tensions on backrest 555, to support its back or other suitable parts when taking one's seat orientation a people.

Equally, generally with the storage box of 560 expressions with comprise that the adjustable linkage mechanism 540 of two elongated link components 542 and 544 is adjacent to be arranged in the front portion of framework 502.As shown equally, storage box 560 is also supporting relation ground and substantially arranges forward on side assemblies 504 and 506 furcation 510 ' separately.Further, support box 560 can have uncovered top or entrance 562.For the ease of movable support assembly 500 is optionally arranged in to stowed position, seat 554, backrest 555 and storage box 560 can form by each free flexible material.Thereby the inside adjacent nearly interval substantially between sidepiece 504 and 506, can cause seat 554, backrest 555 and storage box 560 effectively to be packed up or folding at least in part, as at least in part as shown in Figure 38 and Figure 39.

Owing to can described preferred embodiment of the present invention being made to a lot of detailed modification, variation and changes, therefore above explanation neutralization all things shown in the drawings all should be interpreted as illustrative and unrestricted meaning.Therefore, scope of the present invention should be as the criterion with appended claims and legal equivalents thereof.

The present invention will be described.

Claims (23)

1. the movable support assembly being convenient to individual activity and constructing, described movable support assembly comprises:

For the frame assembly of optionally constructing with packing up between orientation location in operative orientation,

Described frame assembly comprises two side assemblies, and each side assemblies comprises the support wheel being attached thereto,

Described operative orientation and pack up orientation all by described two side assemblies relative to each other movably interconnection adjustable linkage mechanism,

Described operative orientation comprises: described two side assemblies are maximum lateral spacing each other, by described adjustable linkage mechanism, interconnected simultaneously, and

The described orientation of packing up comprises: with when the described operative orientation described in the described maximum lateral spacing of two side assemblies compare, described two side assemblies are nearlyer lateral spacing and are substantially adjacent to arranges.

2. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said operative orientation further comprises: described adjustable linkage mechanism is arranged in lateral extension orientation, simultaneously and described two side assemblies interconnection.

3. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 2, the wherein said orientation of packing up further comprises: described adjustable linkage mechanism is arranged in extending longitudinally orientation.

4. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 1, the wherein said orientation of packing up further comprises: described adjustable linkage mechanism is arranged in extending longitudinally orientation.

5. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said adjustable linkage mechanism comprises two elongated link components, and each link component has first-phase opposite end and the second-phase opposite end that is connected to movably the different side assemblies in described two side assemblies.

6. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein said two elongated link components are connected to corresponding end in the middle of another in described first-phase opposite end and second-phase opposite end movably.

7. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein in described operative orientation with pack up between orientation, described elongated link component described first-phase opposite end is separately pivotably connected to a respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies, and can move along with this side assemblies.

8. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 7, wherein said second-phase opposite end comprises outer end separately, described outer end can move to described two side assemblies in a respective side portion assembly be in the face of relation and depart from described relation, described two side assemblies are arranged to described operative orientation and depart from described operative orientation simultaneously.

9. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein said adjustable linkage mechanism is further included in described in each between the respective side portion assembly in the second end and described two side assemblies interconnection movably and attached attached connecting rod.

10. movable support assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein said two elongated link components are connected to respective end in the middle of another in described opposite end movably.

11. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 1, wherein said support wheel comprises front component and the wheel assembly that is connected to each side assemblies in described two side assemblies.

12. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 11, wherein said front component and wheel assembly are connected to a respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies separately movably; The described orientation of packing up further comprises that at least one wheel assembly and the respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies in described front component and wheel assembly disconnect.

13. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 1, wherein said two side assemblies comprise the handle arrangement being attached thereto adjustably separately; The handle arrangement variable distance in one-stage selective ground that can the respective side portion assembly from described two side assemblies stretches out described in each.

14. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 13, wherein described in each, handle arrangement is connected to the respective side portion assembly in described side assemblies removedly; The described orientation of packing up further comprises that at least one handle arrangement and the respective side portion assembly in described side assemblies in described handle arrangement disconnect.

15. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 1, wherein said adjustable linkage mechanism comprises two elongated link components, and each link component has first-phase opposite end and the second-phase opposite end that is connected to movably the different side assemblies in described two side assemblies; The described maximum lateral spacing of described two side assemblies comprise the described first-phase opposite end of described two elongated link components and described second-phase opposite end described operative orientation than described while packing up orientation to arrange compared with large-spacing each other.

16. 1 kinds of movable support assemblies of being convenient to individual activity and constructing, described movable support assembly comprises:

For the frame assembly of optionally constructing with packing up between orientation location in operative orientation,

Described frame assembly comprises two side assemblies, and each side assemblies comprises front component and the wheel assembly being attached thereto,

Adjustable linkage mechanism, comprises two elongated link components that connect pivotly in middle opposite end each other,

Described in each, elongated link component comprises first-phase opposite end and second-phase opposite end, wherein in described operative orientation with pack up between orientation, described in each, opposite end is connected to a different side assemblies in described two side assemblies movably, and can move along with this side assemblies

Described operative orientation comprises that described two side assemblies are relative to each other maximum lateral spacing, and described adjustable linkage mechanism is arranged in and extends laterally orientation,

The described orientation of packing up comprises with described two side assemblies and comparing when the described maximum lateral spacing of described operative orientation, and described two side assemblies are adjacent to arrange with nearlyer relative spacing substantially, and

The described orientation of packing up further comprises that described two elongated link components are arranged in along its length adjacent orientation of longitudinal extension substantially.

17. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 16, wherein in described operative orientation with pack up between orientation, described elongated link component described first-phase opposite end is separately pivotably connected to a respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies, and can move along with this side assemblies.

18. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 17, wherein said second-phase opposite end comprises outer end separately, described outer end can move to described two side assemblies in a respective side portion assembly be in the face of relation and depart from describedly in the face of relation, described two side assemblies are arranged to described operative orientation and depart from described operative orientation simultaneously.

19. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 18, wherein said adjustable linkage mechanism is further included in described in each between the respective side portion assembly in the second end and described two side assemblies interconnection movably and attached attached connecting rod.

20. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 16, wherein said front component and wheel assembly are connected to a respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies separately movably; The described orientation of packing up further comprises that at least one wheel assembly and the respective side portion assembly in described two side assemblies in described front component and wheel assembly disconnect.

21. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 16, wherein said two side assemblies comprise the handle arrangement being attached thereto adjustably separately; The handle arrangement variable distance in one-stage selective ground that can the respective side portion assembly from described two side assemblies stretches out described in each.

22. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 21, wherein described in each, handle arrangement is connected to the respective side portion assembly in described side assemblies removedly; The described orientation of packing up further comprises that at least one handle arrangement and the respective side portion assembly in described side assemblies in described handle arrangement disconnect.

23. movable support assemblies as claimed in claim 16, the described maximum lateral spacing of wherein said two side assemblies comprise the described first-phase opposite end of described link component and described second-phase opposite end described operative orientation than described while packing up orientation to arrange compared with large-spacing each other.