GB2545253A

GB2545253A - A mobility aid ferrule

Info

Publication number: GB2545253A
Application number: GB1521829.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Akorley Benjamin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-12-11
Filing date: 2015-12-11
Publication date: 2017-06-14
Also published as: GB201521829D0

Abstract

A ferrule, foot or tip for a walking aid such as a crutch or walking stick. The ferrule comprises a foot 94, a deforming suspension member 6, and an aid attachment mechanism 2. The resilient member 6 may be a spring, which allows the lower surface to move along the axis of the rail 74. The attachment mechanism may comprise two hinged 13 portions 1, 2, which lock shut to clamp the crutch end 100. A deformable tab 11 then clips the segments 1, 2 into place.

Description

A MOBILITY AID FERRULE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to mobility aids, in particular ground contacting mobility aids, such as crutches, poles or other sticks for walking; more particularly but not exclusively a device for improvement of contact with the ground for aids such as crutches.

Background

Increasing numbers of users in today’s society are of advancing years or reduced ability; given an ageing population.

Fortunately there are also increasing numbers of aids available for such users.

In particular where users suffer reduced mobility, there are numerous ways for mobility to be enhanced and walking to be aided.

Some of such aids are very traditional such as walking sticks. Walking sticks have changed little over centuries, improving notably as crutches with respect to the ferrules that comprise the ground contacting surface of the aid in use. These ferrules include resiliently deformable material to aid comfort and absorb impacts. However such material also requires updating and replacing more frequently, every 3 to 6 months.

Users of reduced mobility can find it very difficult to accomplish the steps necessary for removing, replacing and attaching ferrules to walking aids such as crutches.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a mobility aid ferrule, comprising a ground contacting surface, a body, and an aid attachment mechanism; wherein the ferrule comprises a resiliently deformable member, and the attachment mechanism comprises a displaceable part.

Preferably the body is situated between the surface and mechanism, and may comprise a number of parts.

Preferably the member is internally situated in the body or longitudinally intermediate parts of the ferrule, so as to allow the body or ferrule to flex and/or deform; advantageously so as to absorb impacts of the aid on the ground between the surface and attachment mechanism. In some embodiments the deformation is multiaxial wherein the ferrule absorbs varying subordinate surfaces and provides an articulated interface with the ground. In others the deformation occurs solely along an axis defined by the aid, wherein the deformation absorbs linear impact forces of the aid.

Preferably the aid consists of a crutch, although embodiments of the invention may be envisaged in use on other elongate ground contacting aids such as walkers or sticks.

The ferrule is used at the lowermost point of the aid and replaces a foot, end or stud on such as walking sticks or crutches. In some embodiments such existing foot may be utilised as standard, for example wherein the body and/or ground contacting surface is formed from a standard foot. In this way the ferrule may comprise an adaptor for use between the foot and aid.

The member may comprise a spring such as a torsion spring, arranged so as to allow rotation, pitch and yaw of the body or surface about the mechanism and consequently of the aid with reference to the surface. The member may comprise a torsion spring wherein the spring surrounds a sliding part intermediate the ferrule and allowing the body and the attachment mechanism to slide with respect to each other, under bias of the member.

The tension in the spring may be adjustable, for example by screw thread tightening or loosening, and consequently variation in the spring’s length.

In some embodiments the member allows rotation of the body with reference to the mechanism, for example wherein the surface may form contact with the ground and the aid may be rotated, with the member configured to allow and/or absorb rotation or twisting force. Advantageously therefore any twisting forces inherent in a user’s walking patterns will be accommodated by the ferrule, and potential damage minimised to the user or the user’s body.

In other embodiments rotation of the surface with reference to the aid may be accommodated by the mechanism, and/or body; for example wherein the mechanism and/or body may include bearings or attachment mechanism permitting or arranged for mutual rotation.

In some embodiments the ferrule is arranged to allow movement about more than one axis, with said movement wholly contained within the ferrule itself. In other embodiments the ferrule is arranged to allow rotation of the ferrule, body or surface about the aid. In other embodiments only linear movement is possible, along the axis of the aid.

Preferably the part is resiliently deformable or comprises resiliently deformable portions wherein preferably the attachment mechanism is at least bipartite and the displaceable part is used to open and close and typically consolidate the attachment. In some embodiments further steps may be necessary to consolidate the attachment, for example a locking means. Such deformation or steps ideally absorb any irregularities in diameter of the aid.

In preferred embodiments a displaceable part of the attachment mechanism is comprised by a displaceable resiliently deformable section or plug, which plug is configured to contact the aid, close any outstanding gaps and/or deform to absorb diameter variation. The plug is typically arranged in use in a bevelled depression and may be formed in rubber or silicone or other elastomer. Further embodiments may have a grub screw in place of this plug.

Ideally and advantageously part or parts allow(s) easy clip on and clip off functionality on the attachment mechanism. For example the mechanism may fully surrounds the aid’s distal end, and a resiliently deformable part of the mechanism is deformed in order to clip the ferrule onto the end and to detach from the end. Advantageously this means that users of limited mobility are enabled to change or update their aids easily and regularly.

The mechanism may comprise two main portions joined in use by a part to make the mechanism attach, preferably wherein the part deforms to join the portions.

Preferably the portions are hinged together so as to pivot at a hinge which hinge is distal from the part on the portions.

Advantageously these portions are configured to attach effectively to the aid by simple closure at the part. In some embodiments for example the part may comprise an overcentre sprung closure, so as to pull the portions onto the aid after displacement.

In some embodiments in addition or the alternative the portions and/or part may comprise texture, ratchet teeth or raised and lowered portions arranged to discourage displacement from the aid or spinning or turning about the aid in one or both directions. A grub screw may comprise a mechanism for securing the ferrule so as to prevent spinning and/or a ratchet teeth mechanism.

The surface is liable to be a lowermost surface of the body wherein preferably the surface and the body are comprised in a single element, which element is formed of a block or formation of resiliently deformable material such as rubber, silicone, plastics or other elastomer. In some embodiments the surface comprises stepped annular sections, with a convex sectional profile, so as to allow for wear and minimal ground contact area for comfort of a user.

In some embodiments the formation of the body comprises a closed cellular structure material, wherein deformation of the cells allows deformation of the body in use.

Deformation of the body advantageously cooperates with deformation of the member in use to allow multiple directions and planes and axes of deformation in use, so as to advantageously accommodate walking patterns of the user and varying ground approaches of the aid, effectively and adaptively.

For example the surface advantageously accommodates locally uneven terrain, for example small raised and lowered areas smaller than the surface, and/or texture; and the member accommodates uneven terrain such as with reference to slopes or raised and lowered areas larger than the surface.

Preferably in some embodiments the member may be encased or surrounded by a shield, skirt, or cover. Said cover may be resiliently deformable and arranged so as to accommodate movement of the member or mutual movement of elements ferrule, and prevent ingress of matter past the cover. Said cover may comprise flexible and deformable material such as thin rubber, silicone or elastomer, which allows movement but prevents ingress of water, solids or fluid.

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows an isometric exploded view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figures 3 show side views of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figures 4 show end views of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figures 5 show a reverse isometric view of the exploded embodiment shown in Figure 1, and reverse isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1; with spring displaced;

Figure 6 shows an isometric view of an attachment mechanism portion of a second embodiment of the invention;

Figures 7 show isometric views of an attachment mechanism portion of a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 8 shows an isometric sectional view of the body and attachment mechanism of the second embodiment shown in Figure 6;

Figure 9 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment of an attachment mechanism as shown in Figure 6;

Figure 10 shows an isometric exploded view of the second embodiment as shown in Figure 6;

Figures 11 show side views of the embodiment shown in Figure 6;

Figures 12 show end views of the embodiment shown in Figure 6;

And

Figure 13 shows a side view of an exploded embodiment as shown in Figure 6. Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to both embodiments the device comprises a ground contacting surface 10 on a lower body section 9 spaced apart from an upper body section 5 by a central resiliently deformable spring member 6 joining the body sections.

In some embodiments the upper section extends asymmetrically away from the lower section, for example so as to aid in rotational placement of the ferrule.

The upper section of the body comprises a collar for the attachment mechanism, which mechanism comprises a bipartite collar 1,2 with securing displaceable part formed by a tab 11 on a resiliently deformable arm 4, which arm interacts with the other collar part 1 at a notch 12, wherein the tab has a corresponding rib 121, and an end 8 wherein the arm has a corresponding gutter 81 so as to form an interference fit.

The collar may comprise internal ribbing or other mechanism configured to prevent the collar and ferrule turning about the mobility aid in use, and consequently risking the user twisting accidentally.

The collar portions 1,2 are hinged together at castellations 13, with a through-pin 3. This pin is bonded into a hole 51 in the upper body section 5. In other embodiments the pin comprises a enlarged end, larger than the hole 51, wherein the hole passes through the upper body section entirely.

The lower section forms the ground contacting surface and accordingly is constructed of a resiliently deformable material for absorption of irregularities in the ground; such as soft compound rubber. The lower section in some embodiments may be divided into a surface section attached to a holder section for the member, as per the first embodiment. In such embodiments the surface may be displaceable, or replaceable.

The upper section comprises a relatively rigid material such as a harder compound rubber or plastics.

The intermediate spring member 6 comprises a steel torsion spring bonded, adhered or formed into contact with the sections centrally, and forming a flexible joint therebetween.

With reference to the first embodiment the lower body section comprises a shallow holder 93A for the spring member with a channel and central island 95, which island extends upwards to allow passage and follow a central bolt or rail 74.

This holder and surface configuration comprises the lower section of the body and moves towards the upper section of the body along a rail 74, and acting against the spring member. The rail has a square section to prevent mutual spinning in the body, so as to aid in attachment of the attachment mechanism to the aid. The rail has a washer end 73 in a slot 76, to prevent further movement apart of the body under the spring and provide a vertical stop.

With reference to the second embodiment the lower body section includes a channel formed between the rim 93 and a central island 91, with an enlarged cylinder 92 providing the surface. The island includes a through lacuna for receipt of a central bore 7, which is used to hold the body sections and spring together in use, including a nut 72 screwed through and maintained in place by a lacuna and collar 56, and distal bolt end 71.

The attachment mechanism comprises two portions with a central hinge, allowing the portions to be opened for displacement from or to the aid’s end. The portions comprise ends 131 arranged for clean rotation. The displaceable part is configured to tightly close the portions together by virtue of the rounding of the nub 121 and slot 12, and maintain in place over the aid end. With reference to the first embodiment a lip fits into a rim 52 to further consolidate the closure.

The attachment mechanism comprises a portion 2 comprising a section of the body, wherein the spring is inserted into a channel 57 therein.

With reference to the second embodiment there is also included an island 55 creating a channel 54 for close-fitting insertion of the aid or crutch end, wherein the other portion 1 includes a resiliently deformable bung 111, such as rubber, wherein the bung comprises a space restriction mechanism for accommodation of different diameter aid ends wherein the bung 11 is squeezed into a bevel 113. In some further embodiments a hole 112 allows adjustment, for example with a grub screw.

The ground contacting surface 10 may be formed of raised surface portions, interspersed with channels 101, allowing the surface to be provided flexibly. The surface may comprise concentric annular steps, with a convex sectional profile; and a central solid foot 102, and is a separate part 92A.

The lower section of the body has recesses to aid grip during attachment of the ferrule to the aid, and prevent rotation thereof as the attachment mechanism portion is pulled across.

The rail 74 has a collar sleeve 75 to prevent egress from the collar 555.

In some views the attachment mechanism is in use on a crutch end 100.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention. Firstly it will be understood that any features described in relation to any particular embodiment may be featured in combinations with other embodiments.

With respect to the specification therefore, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention, with variation and implementation obvious and clear on the basis of either common general knowledge or of expert knowledge in the field concerned. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention as set out in the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A mobility aid ferrule, comprising a ground contacting surface, a body, and an aid attachment mechanism; wherein the body comprises a resiliently deformable member, and the attachment mechanism comprises a displaceable part.

2. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 1 wherein the member is situated between the surface and mechanism,

3. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the body comprises a number of parts.

4. A mobility aid ferrule member according to claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the member is internally situated in the body, so as to allow the body to flex and/or deform; advantageously so as to absorb impacts of the aid on the ground

5. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the aid consists of a crutch.

6. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims comprising an adaptor for use between an aid and an independent foot.

7. A mobility aid ferrule according to any preceding claim wherein the member comprises a spring such as a torsion spring

8. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims arranged to allow movement of the ground contacting surface about more than one axis, with said movement wholly contained within the ferrule itself.

9. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims arranged to allow rotation of the ferrule about the aid.

10. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body and attachment mechanism are arranged to prevent mutual rotation.

11. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the attachment mechanism is bipartite and the displaceable part is used to open, close and consolidate attachment.

12. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 11 comprising a hinge.

13. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the displaceable part is resiliently deformable or comprises a resiliently deformable section.

14. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the attachment mechanism includes locking means.

15. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 14 wherein the means comprises a locking pin.

16. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 14 wherein the means comprises a deformable plug.

17. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the attachment mechanism comprises two main portions and a displaceable part.

18. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 17 wherein the portions are hinged together at a hinge.

19. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims 17 or 18 wherein the portions are configured to attach effectively to the aid by placement of the part.

20. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims 17 or 18 wherein the part comprises an overcentre mechanism about the hinge.

21. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the surface is a lowermost surface of the body.

22. A mobility aid ferrule according to claim 21 wherein the surface has a convex sectional profile.

23. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body comprises rubber, silicone, plastics or other elastomer.

24. A mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims wherein the member is surrounded by a shield, skirt, or cover.

25. A mobility aid ferrule substantially as described herein with reference to the figures.

26. A mobility incorporating a ferrule according to any of the preceding claims.

27. A mechanism for attaching a mobility aid ferrule according to any of the preceding claims, as illustrated in figures 6 and 7.