WO2017156581A1

WO2017156581A1 - Hand grab

Info

Publication number: WO2017156581A1
Application number: PCT/AU2017/050229
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nicholas Gibbs
Original assignee: Engee Pty Limited
Priority date: 2016-03-15
Filing date: 2017-03-15
Publication date: 2017-09-21
Also published as: AU2017234379B2; AU2017234379A1

Abstract

A portable hand grab including: one or more suction cups for attaching the portable hand grab to one or more respective attachment surfaces; at least one handle connected to the suction cups for gripping by hand; at least one electrical vacuum pump for at least partially evacuating at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces; at least one vacuum sensor for detecting a vacuum level in the suction volume; and at least one electronic controller configured to control the electrical vacuum pump to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level.

Description

HAND GRAB

TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present invention generally relates to hand grabs for attachment to surfaces for assisting personal balance and safety or for manipulating objects.

BACKGROUND

[002] People with physical disability, people whose general health has diminished, and people recovering from injury or illness may have problems maintaining their balance. Permanently fixed safety devices, including fixed grab bars, hand rails and fixed handholds, have been designed and widely used to enable or assist a person to maintain balance. These devices comprise rigid members permanently connected to a fixed stable body such as a wall or floor.

[003] Fixed safety devices are commonly used in public locations such as aged care homes, hospitals, and public toilets. In environments that people with difficulties in maintaining their personal balance frequent less, such as hotels and home environments, fixed safety devices are often not provided, which may lead to injuries to people who cannot maintain their balance.

[004] Movable supporting tools, including walking sticks and roller walkers, have also been used to assist a user's personal balance by providing a reactive force principally in the vertical direction. However, a user may sometimes need assistance in different directions, for which these types of supporting tools are unsatisfactory. Further, due to their movable nature, these supporting tools themselves often only have limited stability, and may sometimes be insufficient for assisting a user to maintain personal balance.

[005] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more disadvantages or limitations associated with the prior art, or to at least provide a useful alternative. SUMMARY

[006] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a portable hand grab including:

one or more suction cups for attaching the portable hand grab to one or more respective attachment surfaces;

at least one handle connected to the suction cups for gripping by hand;

at least one electrical vacuum pump for at least partially evacuating at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces;

at least one vacuum sensor for detecting a vacuum level in the suction volume; and

at least one electronic controller configured to control the electrical vacuum pump to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level.

[007] The at least one vacuum sensor can be a pressure sensor, or a pressure transducer. The vacuum level is a negative pressure level, and the preselected minimum vacuum level is a preselected / predefined minimum negative pressure level.

[008] The portable hand grab can include a check valve, separate from the electrical vacuum pump, to resist or to block air leaking into the suction volume. The separate check valve can improve vacuum retention, and maintenance of the vacuum level need not rely on pump seals in the electrical vacuum pump, a motor controller of the electrical vacuum pump, or stored energy in the hand grab.

[009] The one or more suction cups can include two or more suction cups, and the hand grab can include a flexible linkage that connects the suction cups. The flexible linkage can include one or more hinges. The flexible linkage can include pliable and resilient portions of the suction cups. The flexible linkage can assist the suction cups attach when the attachment surfaces are non-coplanar. [010] The suction cups can include seal mounts for attaching respective seals that contact the attachment surfaces to define the suction volume, wherein the seals extend around respective vacuum-facing faces of the suction cups. The seals have respective central apertures that expose central portions of the vacuum-facing faces. The seals can be ring-shaped or circular. The seal mounts include one or more engaging recesses in the suction cups. The seals include mounting portions for connecting to the seal mounts. The mounting portions are in the form of one or more flanges for engaging with the engaging recesses.

[Oil] The seals can be stressed by attachment to the seal mounts. A diametral dimension of the mounting portion of each seal (each flange) can be smaller than a diametral dimension of each corresponding seal mount (each corresponding engaging recess). The seals can therefore be stretched to fit the seal mounts. Stretching the mounting portions of the seals over, to and/or into the seal mounts can be done manually. The seals can be flexible (having natural resilience), allowing them to be manually stretched over the mounts. As the seals are flexible, when they are stretched over the seal mounts they are stressed by tension along their lengths, and pressure against the seal mounts, i.e., the seals are stretched and strained, and distorted from their natural configurations. The stress causes the seals to rotate inward towards the respective vacuum-facing faces. The pressure against the seal mounts holds the seals in place on the suction cups and allows generation of a vacuum seal, and allows them to be manually removed for cleaning or repair.

[012] The portable hand grab can include an attach indicator, wherein the electronic controller is configured to activate the attach indicator when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being greater than a preselected safe vacuum level. Thus the portable hand grab can tell a user when it is safe to use. The attach indicator, e.g., a green light, can be active when the portable hand grab is safe to use, and off when the portable hand grab is not safe to use, either due to the vacuum level being too low, or the battery being too low to power the portable hand grab. The portable hand grab can include a release indicator, e.g., a red light, which is active when the vacuum release valve is releasing suction from the suction volume. The indicators can be visible indicators and/or audible indicators. The indicators can be water proof. The electronic controller activates the indicators by controlling them using electronic signals.

[013] The portable hand grab can include:

an attach control that activates closed-loop operation of the electronic controller to control the electrical vacuum pump based on the vacuum sensor to establish and maintain the vacuum level above the preselected minimum vacuum level; and

a release control, which is separate from the attach control, that deactivates the closed-loop operation and releases air into the suction volume.

[014] The attach control can be an attach button providing one-touch attachment, and the release control can be a release button providing one-touch release. The release control can control the electronic controller to release the air by opening a release valve of the hand grab. The release valve can be separate from the vacuum pump.

[015] The portable hand grab can include an ON/OFF control located in a portion of the portable hand grab that lies within the suction volume when in use. The ON/OFF control can therefore be inaccessible when the portable hand grab is in use. The ON/OFF control can be water proof and vacuum proof. The ON/OFF control can be a button.

[016] The controls (including the attach control, the release control and the ON/OFF control) can be manually operated control devices, e.g., push buttons, which are separate and discrete from each other, e.g., separate buttons, which have discrete and separate electronic connections to the electronic controller and can be operated separately by hand. Discrete separated buttons may be easier to water proof and protect from impacts, and may make it easier for a user to avoid activating an unintended control. The controls can be combined with the respective indicators, e.g., the buttons can have integrated lights. The suction cups can include respective tactile indicators for the controls.

[017] The handle can include a grip that is elastic. The grip can therefore

spontaneously resume its normal shape after being compressed, e.g., by hand. The grip can be textured to make it less slippery to hold, e.g., when wet. The handle can include a rigid body that is substantially less elastic than the grip. The grip may be a casing formed over the rigid body, e.g., an overmoulded casing.

[018] The suction cups can include concave recesses that are adjacent to the handle to receive the hand. The concave recesses can receive the fingers of the hand when gripping. When the portable hand grab is attached to the attachment surfaces, the concave recesses can be between the handle and the attachment surfaces, and can curve towards the attachment surfaces, allowing the handle to be close to the attachment surfaces so that the portable hand grab can resist force components or torques applied to the handle that are not perpendicular to the attachment surfaces, e.g., that tend to twist the portable hand grab away from the attachment surfaces.

[019] The portable hand grab can include one or more finger recesses for gripping by fingers. The finger recesses can be respective concave indentations in exterior surfaces of the suction cups that are sized to receive the fingers, forming elliptical bowls. The exterior surfaces are water proof. The finger recesses are textured. The finger recesses are distributed symmetrically around the suction cups to be gripped by left-hand fingers and by right-hand fingers.

[020] The portable hand grab can include a resilient cover that protects the electrical vacuum pump and the power storage unit. The suction cups can include the resilient cover to protect the internal components, e.g., if dropped. The resilient cover is water proof. The resilient cover may be formed of resilient and water-proof material, e.g., ABS plastic.

[021] The portable hand grab can include an air filter for filtering air flowing into the portable hand grab, the air filter being manually removable from the portable hand grab. The air filter can be retained by an openable fitting on the exterior of the portable hand grab. The air filter can be accessible from a portion of the portable hand grab that lies within the suction volume when in use. The air filter can filter air that flows into the electronic vacuum pump and other internal portions of the hand grab.

[022] The portable hand grab can include a power storage unit for storing electrical energy and supplying the electrical energy to the electrical vacuum pump. The power storage unit can be in a first one of the suction cups and the electrical vacuum pump can be in a second one of the suction cup such that the portable hand grab is balanced at the handle. The first suction cup can also include a printed circuit board (PCB) and an audio speaker. The second suction cup can also include one or more vacuum valves. The portable hand grab can include a recharge port for recharging the power storage unit. The recharge port can be in a portion of the portable hand grab that lies within the suction volume when in use, and the recharge port can be vacuum proof. The power storage unit can include one battery cell or a plurality of battery cells. Alternatively, the power storage unit can receive a removable battery pack that connects electrically to the power storage unit to supply the electrical power, and can be manually removed for recharging and replacement with another equivalent removable battery pack, e.g., from a remote battery charger.

[023] The present invention also provides a kit including:

the portable hand grab and a transport shield for fitting over and shielding the ON/OFF control; or

the portable hand grab and a key to open the openable fitting of the air filter.

[024] The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing a portable hand grab including:

providing one or more suction cups for attaching the portable hand grab to one or more respective attachment surfaces;

providing at least one handle connected to the suction cups for gripping by hand;

providing at least one electrical vacuum pump for at least partially evacuating at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces;

providing at least one vacuum sensor for detecting a vacuum level in the suction volume; and

providing at least one electronic controller configured to control the electrical vacuum pump to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level. [025] The method can include:

injection moulding the suction cup and a grip body of the handle; assembling the suction cup and the grip body;

overmoulding a grip on the grip body to form the handle after assembling the suction cup and grip body;

installing internal components to the suction cup; and

securing a cup base to a main body to form the suction cup.

[026] The present invention also provides a method of operating a portable hand grab including:

gripping the portable hand grab by hand;

attaching the portable hand grab to one or more respective attachment surfaces; electronically detecting a vacuum level in at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces; and

at least partially evacuating at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces when the vacuum level is less than a preselected minimum vacuum level.

[027] The method can include activating an attach indicator when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being greater than a preselected safe vacuum level.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[028] Some embodiments of the present invention are hereinafter further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[029] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the hand grab;

[030] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of components of the hand grab;

[031] Fig. 3 is a front view of the hand grab;

[032] Fig. 4 is a side view of the hand grab, from the attachment control side; [033] Fig. 5 is a top view of the hand grab;

[034] Fig. 6 is a bottom view of the hand grab;

[035] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the hand grab along the plane X-X in Fig.

5;

[036] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the hand grab along the plane Y-Y in Fig.

5;

[037] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the hand grab along the plane Z-Z in Fig.

5;

[038] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the hand grab;

[039] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the hand grab from another perspective;

[040] Fig 12A is a cross-sectional view of the hand grab along the plane Y-Y in

Fig. 5 in an unloaded condition;

[041] Fig. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the hand grab along the plane Y-Y in

Fig. 5 in a deflected condition;

[042] Fig. 13A is a radial cross-sectional view of a suction seal of the hand grab in an undeformed condition;

[043] Fig. 13B is a radial cross-sectional view of the suction seal in a seal mount of the hand grab;

[044] Fig. 13C is a cross-sectional view of the suction seal on the seal mount in an initial contact condition with an attachment surface;

[045] Fig. 13D is a radial cross-sectional view of the suction seal on the seal mount in a full contact condition with the stable surface; [046] Fig. 14A is a diametral cross-sectional view of a suction cup of the hand grab with a control protector in an engaged condition;

[047] Fig. 14B is a diametral cross-sectional view of the suction cup with the control protector in a disengaged condition;

[048] Figs. 15A to 15E are isometric and angle views of a multitool for the hand grab

[049] Fig. 16A is a side elevation view of a grip of a handle of the hand grab;

[050] Fig. 16B is a plan view of the grip;

[051] Fig. 16C is a cross-sectional view of the grip along the plane Y-Y in Fig.

16A; and

[052] Fig. 16D is a cross-sectional view of the grip along the plane X-X in Fig.

16B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[053] Described herein is a portable and securable hand grab that may be referred to as a "hand grab device", a "hand grab apparatus", a "safety bar", a "safety rail", or a "grab bar", or a "vacuum lifter". The hand grab may be used in many situations, including in public and private environments (e.g., bathrooms, hospitals, etc.) that are not equipped to suit people with difficulties maintaining their balance or standing, including disabled, elderly or otherwise physically impaired people.

[054] The hand grab includes at least one suction cup operated by at least one electrical vacuum pump that creates a contact negative pressure onto a corresponding fixed, stable attachment surface (i.e., between the attachment surface and the suction cup). The negative pressure is created in a negative pressure volume (or "suction volume") formed between the attachment surface and the suction cup, i.e., the at least one electrical vacuum pump at least partially evacuates at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces. An area of this negative pressure volume in a plane generally parallel to the attachment surface may be referred to as a "negative pressure area". The negative pressure volume is a partially evacuated volume at a negative fluid pressure. The negative fluid pressure may be referred to as a "partial vacuum". Frictional forces are developed between the at least one suction cup and the corresponding attachment surface due to the negative pressure, and these frictional forces resist loads applied to the hand grab by a user, i.e., a person using the hand grab for safety to maintain personal balance, or to assist with standing up or sitting down, or for lifting/manipulating an article or object, e.g., a substantially planar object. The hand grab 100 is operated by electrical energy stored in an internal power storage unit, which may include a battery unit.

[055] The attachment surfaces are relatively impermeable to the (partial) vacuum, i.e., can sustain the vacuum generated by the suction cups. The surfaces can be smooth, or generally smooth, e.g., tiles, glass, plasterboard walls, some timber surfaces, etc.

Outer Structure

[056] As shown in Fig. 1, a hand grab 100 includes at least one suction cup 101 and a handle 20. In embodiments, the hand grab 100 includes two suction cups 101A, 101B.

[057] As shown in Fig. 2, when the hand grab 100 is being used, the suction cup 101 A, lOlB is attached to a corresponding attachment surface 15 A, 15B.

[058] As shown in Fig. 2, each attachment surface 15A, 15B is an exposed surface of a fixed stable body 15, such as a wall or floor, e.g., a tiled wall or floor in a bathroom; or an exposed surface of an article 15 to be manipulated or moved, e.g., a plate of glass. The attachment surfaces 15A, 15B may be mutually continuous (i.e., part of a larger surface, e.g., a glass wall), or mutually discontinuous (e.g., separate tiles, separated by grout). The attachment surfaces 15A, 15B may be mutually co-planar (i.e., aligned both in the same plane), or mutually non-planar (i.e., in different planes). [059] In some other embodiments, the hand grab 100 may only include one suction cup. In some other embodiments, the hand grab 100 may include more than two suction cups.

[060] When the hand grab 100 includes a plurality of the suction cups 101A, 101B, these are mechanically connected by a flexible linkage that connects the suction cups 101 A, lOlB. As shown in Fig. 1, in these embodiments, the linkage supports and includes the handle 20. The linkage may be referred to as a "linkage member" or "connecting member". Having a plurality of the suction cups 101A and 101B, i.e., two or more, connected by the linkage improves torsional stability of the hand grab 100 in the plane of the surfaces 15 A, 15B relative to the negative pressure area.

[061] As shown in Fig. 1, each of the two suction cups 101A, 101B includes: a main body 21, a flexible suction seal 14A, 14B, and a cup base 13A, 13B. The cup base 13A, 13B connects the main body 21 to the corresponding suction seal 14A, 14B.

[062] Each suction seal 14A, 14B has a suction footprint, i.e., an area surrounded by that suction seal 14 A, 14B on the corresponding attachment surface 15 A, 15B. When in use, this footprint area corresponds to, and is typically the same as, the negative pressure area.

[063] In some embodiments, the hand grab 100 may be configured so that each suction seal is sized and positioned to be used on a surface with 150 x 150 mm or larger tiles by each suction seal 14 A, 14B having a suction footprint smaller than the tile area.

[064] In some other embodiments, the hand grab 100 may have a 300 x 140 mm suction footprint on the attachment surface. In some further implementations, the hand grab 100 may have a 200 x 95 mm suction footprint on the attachment surface. The dimensions and the overall size of the hand grab 100 may be adjusted to any suitable values that suit the use.

[065] In embodiments, the hand grab 100 is sufficiently light-weight and small to be manually portable by people, including people who are physically weaker than average. A total weight of embodiments of the hand grab 100 may be 500 grams to 1200 grams, including 800 grams to lOOOgrams, e.g., 930 grams.

[066] In embodiments, the hand grab 100 is balanced by ends of the handle 20 having similar weights, by the suction cups 101A, 101B having approximately equal weight. The internal components are divided between the suction cups 101A, 101B as described hereinafter.

Main Body 21

[067] The main body 21 is a substantially rigid casing, which houses and supports the other components of the or each suction cup 101 A, 101B. The main body 21 of each suction cup 101A, 101B, the handle 20, and the cup base 13A, 13B, can be formed of resilient materials (described hereinafter), and sealed together, such that they provide a resilient water-proof cover that protects the internal components described hereinafter, e.g., if the hand grab 100 is dropped or splashed with water.

[068] As shown in Fig. 2, the internal components housed or supported by the main body 21 may include: a vacuum pump 1, valves (including but not restricted to a check valve 6, a vacuum release valve 3 and a vacuum pump unload valve 2), at least one vacuum sensor 4 for detecting (and/or monitoring) a vacuum level in the suction volume, an electronic control unit 7, a power storage unit 8, controls for activating and releasing suction pressure 9A and 10A, visual status indicators 9B and 10B, wiring, pneumatic lines, hardware and other suitable internal parts. Some of these components will be described in detail hereinafter.

[069] As shown in Fig. 1, the main body 21 of each suction cup 101 A, 101B may have a substantially hemispherical shape.

[070] In some other embodiments, the main body 21 of each suction cup may have any other suitable shape, including ellipsoid, semi-ellipsoid, cube, rectangular prism, any other prism, and pyramid. The base of each suction cup 101A, 101B has a corresponding two-dimensional shape, including an ellipse, a semi-ellipse, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, or another closed shape. [071] The main body 21 may be made of any suitable material, e.g., any material that is sufficiently rigid, strong, water resistant, stable, able to be formed into shape and sufficiently light, including plastic and rust-resistant alloy, e.g., thermoplastics, including: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic; ABS/poly-carbonate; poly-carbonate; and acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) plastic. The material of the main body 21 can have material properties with the following example values: an impact strength of 200 J/m +/- 10%, an elongation to fail of 30% +/- 10%, a flexural strength of 72 MPa +/- 10%, and a flexural modulus of 2500 MPa +/- 10%. The material of the main body 21 resists water ingress and absorbs collisions, e.g., due to inadvertent drops and knocks in rooms with hard surfaces, e.g., tiled walls and floors in bathrooms.

Cup bases 13A and 13B

[072] Each cup base 13A or 13B connects the main body 21 of the suction cup 101A or 101B to the suction seal 14A or 14B. Each cup base 13A, 13B, as shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 9, includes a bottom surface that faces the attachment surface. A generally central portion of the bottom surface that is exposed to the vacuum, because it is surrounded by the suction seal 14A, 14B, may be referred to as a "negative pressure surface" because it is exposed to the negative pressure in use. The negative pressure surface may be referred to as a "vacuum-facing face", "vacuum-facing surface", or an "evacuatable surface".

[073] The bottom surface of each cup base 13 A, 13B may be substantially flat, generally flat, curved, or substantially conic, e.g., a conic bottom surface with a 3-degree angle. Having a more conic bottom surface may allow the cup bases to better resist the vacuum load when the hand grab 100 is in use.

[074] As shown in Fig. 6, the cup bases 13A, 13B may support some components of the hand grab 100, which may include an ON/OFF control 11 and a battery charging port 12, as will be described in detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, the cup bases 13A, 13B may also support other internal parts of the hand grab 100, e.g., the valves, the vacuum pump 1. [075] The cup bases 13A, 13B are rigid pieces that can resist the vacuum pressure generated by the vacuum pump 1. They may be made of any suitable material that is resilient and water proof, e.g., any material that is sufficiently rigid, strong, water resistant, stable, able to be formed into shape, and sufficiently light, including plastic and rust- resistant alloy, e.g., the same material as the main body 21. The material of the cup bases 13A, 13B resists water ingress and absorb collisions, e.g., due to inadvertent drops and knocks in rooms with hard surfaces, e.g., tiled walls and floors in bathrooms.

Suction Seals 14A and 14B

[076] When the hand grab 100 is being used, the suction cup 101 is mounted on a attachment surface, such that the suction seals 14A and 14B touch the attachment surface.

[077] The suction seals 14A, 14B are flexible (i.e., pliable) such that they can be manually stretched. The suction seals 14A and 14B are made of flexible and elastomeric material, such as polymer or rubber (e.g., silicone rubber post-cured or thermoplastic elastomer, e.g., with a hardness of 74 Shore A, an elongation of over 400%, and a tensile strength greater than 11 MPa). As shown in Figs, 13 A to 13D, due to their pliability, the suction seals 14A and 14B are able to conform to the rigid attachment surface and have a base 1306 that maintains an air-tight seal under the partial vacuum.

[078] The suction seals 14A and 14B may also be able to conform to misaligned or roughened surfaces. When pulled towards the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B by the negative pressure, the suction seals 14A and 14B have a high coefficient of static friction against these surfaces, and resist lateral steadying forces imposed by the user while maintaining an air-tight seal.

[079] The suction seals 14A, 14B are attached to the cup bases 13A, 13B on radially outer portions of the respective cup bases 13A, 13B, so the suction seals 14A, 14B can be referred to as "skirts", and the cup bases 13 A, 13B may be referred to as "suction housings". The suction seals 14A, 14B extend around the respective bottom surfaces of the cup bases 13A, 13B. The suction seals 14A, 14B have respective central apertures that expose the respective negative pressure surfaces, i.e., the central portions of the bottom surfaces.

[080] As shown in Fig. 6 to Fig. 8, each of the suction seals 14A and 14B may have an annular shape (i.e., ring-shaped or circular), such that when they are assembled with the respective cup bases 13A, 13B, the bottom surface of each cup base 13A/13B is exposed and configured for facing the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B.

[081] Further, each of the suction seals 14A and 14B includes a mounting portion for connecting to the seal mounts. The mounting portion may be in the form of at least one flange. Correspondingly, the suction cups 101A, 101B include seal mounts for connecting to the mounting portions of the suction seals 14 A, 14B, thereby attaching the respective suction seals 14A, 14B to the suction cups 101A, 101B. Each of the cup bases 13A and 13B may include the seal mounts in the form of at least one corresponding engaging recess, such that the or each flange inserts into and engages with the or each corresponding engaging recess in use.

[082] These flanges sealingly connect the suction seals 14 A, 14B to the respective cup bases 13 A, 13B, so that the vacuum-induced frictional contact forces (from the partial vacuum) are transferred from each suction seal 14 A, 14B, through the corresponding cup base 13A, 13B and the main body 21 of the suction cup 101A, 101B, to the handle 20 of the hand grab 100, and then to the user who is holding the handle 20.

[083] Further, when not in use, a diametral dimension of each mounting portion of each suction seal 14A, 14B, e.g., each flange on each suction seal 14A, 14B, can be smaller than a diametral dimension of the corresponding seal mount of the suction cup 101A, 101B, e.g., the engaging recess of the cup base 13A, 13B into which the flange inserts. The diametral dimension is the average diameter of the flange or suction seal 14 A, 14B.

[084] As shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 9, in some embodiments, each of the cup bases 13A, 13B includes two engaging recesses 13A_m and 13A_n, and each of the suction seals 14A, 14B includes two respective flanges 14A_m and 14A_n. The engaging recesses 13A_m and 13A_n and the respective flanges 14A_m and 14A_n are continuous around an exposed central portion of the bottom surface.

[085] As shown in Fig. 13A, when not in use (i.e., when the flanges 14A_m and 14A_n are separate from the respective engaging recesses 13A_m and 13A_n), the suction seals 14A, 14B are unstressed.

[086] The diametral dimension of each of the flanges 14A_m and 14A_n on the suction seal 14A in Fig. 7 is smaller than the diametral dimension of the engaging recess 13A_m and 13A_n of the cup base 13A. Similarly, when not in use, the diametral dimension of each of the flanges 14B_m and 14B_n on the suction seal 14B in Fig. 9 is smaller than the diametral dimension of the engaging recess 13B_m and 13B_n of the cup base 13B.

[087] These differences in diameters generally require the suction seals 14 A, 14B to be radially stretched (i.e., in the radial direction) in order to engage with the respective engaging recesses. As the seals are flexible, when they are stretched over the mounts they are stressed by tension along their lengths, and pressure against the mounts. This provides a contact surface stress (which may be referred to as "contact pressure") between the flange of the suction seal and the recess of the corresponding cup base. When installed into the seal mounts of the cup bases 13A, 13B, the suction seals 14A, 14B can therefore be referred to as "stressed" or "pre-stressed". This contact stress seals the suction seal and the corresponding cup base together, thereby eliminating or mitigating leakage of air through this interface (for the operating pressures of the hand grab 100) and allowing the partial pressure to be established by suction. Additionally, this contact stress caused by the radial stretching of the suction seals 14A, 14B may allow the seal to be removed manually (i.e., by hand) by the user, e.g., for cleaning or replacement without a specialized tool.

Stretching the suction seals 14A, 14B over the mounts can be done manually.

[088] Further, as shown in Fig. 13B, by having the diametral dimension of the or each flange smaller than the diametral dimension of the or each corresponding engaging recess, the suction seals 14A, 14B may be stretched such that the rim 1304 of the or each suction seal 14 A, 14B makes a circumferential rotation towards the bottom surface of the corresponding cup base 14A, 14B, as shown by the arrow B' in Fig. 7, and by the rotated shape of the seal 14A, 14B relative to an un-rotated outline 1302 in Fig. 13B. This causes the or each suction seal 14A, 14B to "pucker" towards the corresponding attachment surface 15A, 15B, i.e., the stress causes the suction seals 14A, 14B to rotate inward towards the respective negative pressure surfaces.

[089] As shown in Fig. 13C, this rotation may readily be reversed when the user brings the or each suction seal 14A, 14B of the hand grab 100 into contact with the or each attachment surface 15 A, 15B. This contact with the attachment surface 15 A, 15B causes the rim 1304 of the suction seal 14A, 14B to deform away from the attachment surface 15 A, 15B, and this deformation may accommodate misalignments on or between the support surfaces 15 A, 15B with the application of very little initial contact force (or "contact pressure") by the user. This may assist with the creation of an initial seal so that creation of an initial partial vacuum can be created by the operation of the vacuum pump 1 even if the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B are not perfectly smooth, planar or mutually planar.

[090] As shown in Fig. 13D, when the vacuum continues to be drawn after the initial partial vacuum, the circumferential rotation may be reversed, and the hand grab 100 may be drawn closer to the attachment surface 15A, 15B, and the corresponding seal 14A, 14B may be pulled flat against the attachment surface 15 A, 15B when fully drawn down.

When fully drawn down, the base 1306 thus forms a sealing surface with a radial cross- sectional width, i.e., the contact width shown in Fig. 13D, which may be about 2 cm across +/-10%, and this cross- sectional width of the drawn-down seal 14A, 14B is much wider than the width of the rim 1304 when it first contacts the attachment surface, i.e., the contact width shown in Fig. 13C, which may be about 1 mm across +/-10%. Thus the fully drawn-down contact width of the seal 14 A, 14B can be about one order of magnitude larger (e.g., 10 - 50 times) than the initial contact width of the seal 14A, 14B. When fully drawn down, the inner boundaries of the suction seals 14 A, 14B define the negative pressure area, and thus the sides of the suction volume.

[091] The or each suction seal 14A, 14B— by way of the rim 1304 being more flexible than the base 1306 that forms the seal when fully drawn down— provides a two- stage attachment process including: a first stage in which initial contact is made manually and easily (i.e., when the hand grab 100 is in an initial contact condition, as shown in Fig. 13C); and a second stage in which attachment is made by the vacuum pump 1 more strongly (i.e., when the hand grab 100 is in a full contact condition, as shown in Fig. 13D).

[092] In addition, the outer recesses 13A_m or 13B_m may be slightly wider than the respective outer flanges 14A_m or 14B_mi so that the outer flanges 14A_m or 14B_m can freely move into the outer recesses 13A_m or 13B_m without resistance.

[093] Alternatively or additionally, the suction seal 14A, 14B and the corresponding cup base 13A, 13B may be sealed by other suitable methods, which may include using sealants/glues.

Body Seals 26, 27

[094] As shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 9, each of the two suction cups 101A and 101B may further include a body seal 26 or 27, which provides isolation between the inside of the suction cup and the outside environment in order to protect the hand grab's internal working components from potential damage, e.g., from water or moisture in the external environment. The body seals may be a ring-shaped packing or sealing device, including an O-ring or any other suitable type of seal.

Linkage & Handle 20

[095] The handle 20 is the principal place where the user holds the hand grab 100 when it is being positioned relative to and on the attachment surfaces prior to activation, when it is activated, and when it is being released.

[096] When the hand grab 100 is activated, by the user holding the handle 20, the hand grab 100 provides a stabilizing force for the user, and thereby assists the user to maintain balance, to stand, and to sit, etc.

[097] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 8, the handle 20 includes an elongated rigid grip body having two ends, each end connecting to one of the two suction cups 101A and 101B. [098] In some embodiments, the rigid grip body of the handle 20 may be integrated with the main body 21 of each suction cup. The main body 21 of each of the suction cups 101 A and 10 IB, and the rigid grip body of the handle 20 may be integrated and formed by a mating pair of rigid mouldings (e.g., plastic mouldings) permanently connected to each other during assembly of the hand grab 100. The line of juncture may be sealed to prevent or mitigate ingress of moisture or other contaminants that could damage or impair the correct operation of the parts therein, as shown in Fig. 8, Fig. 10 and Fig. 11.

[099] In some embodiments, the rigid grip body of the handle 20 and the main body 21 of each suction cup may be separate components assembled together, e.g., by engaging mechanisms such as a screw-in connection or a plug-in connection.

[100] Further, in some embodiments, where the hand grab 100 includes only one suction cup 101, the handle 20 may include an elongated rigid grip body having two ends, each end connecting to one side of the suction cup 101.

[101] In some embodiments, where the hand grab 100 includes more than two suction cups 101, the handle 20 may include more than one of the linkage, each being an elongated member, each linkage (which may include a grip body part) having two ends and each linkage (and grip body part) connecting to two of the suction cups.

[102] As shown in Fig. 12A, the handle 20 is curved such that the handle 20 joins each suction cup 101 along a line C-C, D-D that is at an angle ai, a₂ to a central axis A-A, B-B of each suction cup 101A, 101B, where the angle ai, a₂ is between 0 degrees and 90 degrees, between 45 degrees and 90 degrees, and/or between 60 degrees and 85 degrees.

[103] The handle 20 connects to the sides of the suction cups 101A, 101B so that the handle 20 is held close to the surfaces 15 A, 15B to have a smaller lever arm between the surfaces 15 A, 15B and the handle 20 which increases the weight-bearing capacity of the hand grab 100. A recessed portion 30A, 30B of the respective suction cups 101A, 101B, described hereinafter, allows the handle 20 to be closer to the surfaces 15 A, 15B in use.

[104] The handle 20 may also include a grip enhancing member (also referred to as a "grip") that is: elastic for making the handle 20 more comfortable for the user; and adhesive or textured for enhancing the friction between the user's hand and the handle 20 and to make it less slippery to hold, e.g., when wet. As the grip enhancing member is elastic, it spontaneously resumes its normal shape after being compressed, e.g., by hand. The grip enhancing member is substantially more elastic than the rigid grip body.

[105] In some embodiments, the grip enhancing member may include a casing outside the rigid grip body, which resists slip of the user's hand and thereby provides a secure grip for the user. The casing may be an overmoulded casing.

[106] In some other embodiments, the grip enhancing member may include at least one grip enhancing strip on at least one side of the handle 20. The grip enhancing strip may be elongated along the handle 20.

[107] The casing or the grip enhancing strip may be made of a material with a larger coefficient of friction than the material of the rigid grip body. The material of the casing or the grip enhancing strip may be pliable, resilient material to further increase the friction between the user's hand and the handle 20 and/or to allow a comfortable grip, e.g. an elastomer, e.g., with a hardness of 70 to 90 Shore A, or 80 Shore A.

[108] With reference to Figs. 16A to 16D, the grip 1600 can have a compound shape that: a. provides comfort and grip, especially in wet slippery/soapy conditions; b. complies with the relevant government standard for grab rails, e.g., Clause 17 of Australian Standard (AS) 1428; c. provides spacing for the suction cups 101A, 101B to attach to tiles as small as 150-mm square laid conventionally, i.e., in straight lines without offset edges / "stack bond"; d. minimizes the distance between the handle 20 and the fixed body or article 15 to reduce a bending moment length that down-rates the supportable load; and/or e. is able to be manufactured using conventional plastic injection moulding and elastomeric over-moulding techniques.

[109] As shown in Figs. 16A to 16D, the grip 1600 can include: a. a radially thickened central section 1602 (compared to adjacent reduced- diameter sections 1616) to reduce a tendency of the gripping hand to slide lengthwise along the grip 1600, e.g., when wet / soapy; b. pommels 1604, 1606 (i.e., radially thickened sections) at the longitudinal ends that reduce a tendency of the gripping hand to slide off the grip longitudinally, and provide tactile feedback that the gripping hand is correctly placed; c. when viewed in sectional elevation, a substantially flat straight undersection 1608 (having a radius of around 1000mm) that suits the fingers of the gripping hand; d. when viewed in sectional elevation, a convex upper section 1610 (having a radius of around 150mm) that conforms with the palm of the gripping hand (which is concave); e. in the transverse plane, larger radius side sections 1612 combined with smaller radius top & bottom sections 1614 to assist in resisting torque applied by the gripping hand— if the transverse cross-section were to be circular, then all resistance to user torque would have to be generated by friction, which in turn would require the user to exert a greater contact (or gripping) pressure; and/or f. a compliant, textured elastomeric covering to improve friction, increase comfort and reduce user fatigue.

[110] The outside diameter of the grip 1600 (and thus the handle 20) can be 30 to 40mm. For example, the diameters of the central thickening 1602 and the pommels 1604, 1606 can be 35mm; and the reduced-diameter sections 1616 that lie between the central thickening 1602 and the pommels 1604, 1606 can have diameters of 27 to 32 mm.

[Ill] As shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 5, the main body 21 of each suction cup 101A, 101B may include the recessed portion 30A, 30B under the handle 20. The recessed portions 30A, 30B are concave. This may enlarge the room under the handle 20 for the user's fingers to stay during gripping, and make the handle 20 easier and more comfortable for the user. This may also allow the two suction cups 101A, 101B to be located closer to each other, therefore reducing the overall size of the hand grab 100. Each recessed portion 30A, 30B forms a concavity in the main body 21 of the corresponding suction cup 101A, 101B such that the main body 21— which is otherwise generally convex in its upper portion (i.e., excluding the bottom surface)— does not protrude into the space around (and perpendicular to) the handle 20, i.e., where the user's fingers are placed. This

perpendicular space extends from the handle 20 by a thickness of at least a typical person's finger or thumb. When the hand grab 100 is attached to the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B, the concave recessed portions 30A, 30B are between the handle 20 and the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B, and curve towards the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B, allowing the handle 20 to be close to the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B so that the hand grab 100 can resist force components or torques applied to the handle 20 that are not perpendicular to the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B, e.g., that tend to twist the hand grab 100 away from the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B (i.e., the above-mentioned bending moment length that down-rates the supportable load).

[112] In embodiments where the linkage is formed by the handle 20 connected to the suction cups 101A, 101B, the linkage has a rigidity such that the hand grab can be deflected by at least 20° in a plane bisecting the hand grab 100 along the line Y-Y in Fig. 5 (i.e., the plane bisecting the suction cups 101A, 101B and the handle 20), i.e., as shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, and/or such that the stiffness is about 5 to 10, or 6, Newtons per millimetre when deformed as shown in Fig. 12B (i.e., when one suction cup 101A, 101B is held, and the other suction cup 101 A, lOlB is deflected in the bisecting plane). [113] As shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, the flexibility of the hand grab 100 can be provided by the pliable, resilient portions of the suction cups 101A, 101B in the form of recessed portions 30A, 30B, which have no reinforcing ribs, and are not based on a surface of revolution, but are derived from a flat section drawn into a curve, and so are far less stiff than the handle 20 or other portions of the main body 21. As shown in Figs. 12A and 12B, the recessed portions 30A, 30B include respective flexibility zones 1202A, 1202B which have the greatest flexibility in the bisecting plane of the hand grab 100, and thus are where the greatest deformation occurs when the hand grab 100 is deformed under loading, e.g., when the surfaces 15 A, 15B are non-planar. Each recessed portion 30A, 30B is formed of a curved flat plate which is a two dimensional (2D) structure, in contrast to the generally conical shape of the rest of the upper portion of each suction cup 101 A, 101B.

[114] The linkage and the handle 20 may be made of any suitable material that is resilient and water proof, e.g., any material that is sufficiently rigid, strong, water-resistant, stable, able to be formed into shape, and sufficiently light, including plastic and rust- resistant alloy, e.g., ABS plastic. As with the material of suction cups 101A, 101B, the material of the handle 20 resists water ingress and absorbs collisions, e.g., due to inadvertent drops and knocks in rooms with hard surfaces, e.g., tiled walls and floors in bathrooms.

[115] In alternative embodiments, where the linkage includes the handle 20 and a hinged joint (or hinge) between the handle 20 and one or each of the suction cups 101A, 10 IB, the handle may have a higher rigidity, and the flexibility of the linkage may be provided by the or each joint. The or each joint may have one or more degrees of freedom, and may include a knuckle or hinge joint. Having a more flexible joint between the handle 20 and the suction cups 101A, 101B may improve adherence to less co-planar attachment surfaces 15A, 15B (i.e., attachment surfaces that are substantially non-coplanar).

Finger Grips - Finger Recesses 22

[116] As shown in Fig. 1, each suction cup 101 A, 101B includes at least one finger grip in the form of a finger recess or holding recess for gripping by fingers. The at least one finger recess or holding recess may be formed on the main body 21. The at least one finger recess or holding recess may include a plurality of finger recesses, e.g., at least two or four per suction cup 101 A, 101B.

[117] While the handle 20 is the principal means of holding the hand grab 100 and using it to enhance the user's stability, in some embodiments, the main body 21 may have at least one finger recess, also referred to as a "finger-grip recess", a "grip recess" or "finger pocket", in the form of a recessed portion for manual holding. The finger recesses provide additional places where the user may grip, and derive support from, the hand grab 100.

[118] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 5, the main body 21 of each suction cup may have a plurality of finger recesses 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, 22E, 22F, 22G and 22H. The finger recesses are on the external, outer, upper portion of each suction cup.

[119] Further, as shown in Fig. 1, the upper portion of each of the suction cups 101A, 101B may have a substantially hemispherical shape; and each of the plurality of finger recesses may elongate longitudinally and radially on the hemisphere.

[120] The finger recesses are formed by respective concave indentations in the upper portions of the suction cups 101A, 101B. The concave indentations are in the form of elliptical bowls. The exterior surfaces of the finger recesses are water proof.

[121] The finger recesses are sized to partially receive a typical adult finger, such as the tip of the finger or up to the first joint of the finger. Each finger recess can be, e.g., 10- 25 mm wide, 3-4 mm deep and approximately 60 mm long. In some other

implementations, each finger recess 22 may be 10-30 mm wide, 5-10 mm deep, and up to 100 mm long. The finger recesses 22A to 22H can have the following dimensions: (1) the width at the large end (including blend radius into the main body) is 25mm; (2) the width at the small end (including blend radius into the main body) is 12mm; (3) the overall length (including blend radius into the main body) is 66mm; and (4) their depth ranges gradually from around 1mm to 4.5mm. [122] Having the plurality of finger recesses 22A to 22H provides a multitude of grip points and positions in addition to the handle 20, which may improve the safety of the user using the hand grab 100.

[123] As shown in Fig. 5, on each suction cup, the plurality of finger recesses are scattered, arranged, and/or spaced in a latitudinal direction around the hemisphere. This may ensure the hand grab 100 provides suitable hand holds to the user, regardless of the position on the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B where the hand grab 100 is attached, and regardless of the attachment direction, and regardless of the user's location and posture.

[124] Further, as shown in Fig. 5, these finger recesses 22A to 22H may be configured substantially symmetrical about a plane A' -A' which bisects the handle 20, so that the hand grab 100 is equally suited to use with either the left hand or the right hand: i.e., the finger recesses are distributed symmetrically around the suction cups 101A, 101B to be gripped by left-hand fingers and by right-hand fingers.

[125] The finger recesses 22A to 22H may be arranged in digitally graspable pairs on each suction cup 101A, 101B such that the user can grasp two of the finger recesses 22A to 22H with a thumb and corresponding finger (e.g., index finger) with a natural pincer grip. As shown in Fig. 5, the finger recesses 22 A & 22C, 22B & 22H, 22D & 22F and 22E & 22G in each graspable pair are oriented at about 135 to 145 degrees to each other

(longitudinally around the hemisphere), between 120 degrees and 150 degrees, or between 100 degrees and 170 degrees.

[126] In embodiments, each finger recess 22A to 22H can be uniform in shape, and in other embodiments some of the finger recesses 22A to 22H can have different shapes. These shapes can be confined by the moulding process, which can be injection moulding described hereinafter, such that the finger recesses are open in a plane parallel to the bisecting plane to avoid or mitigate undercuts in an open-and-shut moulding process.

[127] In embodiments, perpendicular finger recesses 22H, 22C, 22D, 22G can be deeper than the non-perpendicular, side recesses 22A, 22B, 22E, 22F, whilst still avoiding undercuts. [128] In embodiments, the finger recesses are textured to improve grip. The finger recesses 22A to 22H include a non-slip texture surface, e.g., formed by etching the exposed polished surface of the injection moulding tooling that forms each finger recess on each suction cup 101 A, 101B within the finger recesses 22A to 22H, which may improve grip-ability.

Pneumatic System (vacuum pump, control system and power supply)

[129] As shown in Fig. 2, the internal components housed by the main body 21 include the vacuum pump 1, the valves (including but not restricted to the check valve 6, the vacuum release valve 3 and the vacuum pump unload valve 2), the vacuum sensor 4, the electronic control unit 7, and the power storage unit 8.

Vacuum Pump 1

[130] The vacuum pump 1 is housed by the main body 21 of one of the suction cups 101A, 101B, e.g., the suction cup 101A, as shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 11. Operation of the vacuum pump 1 is controlled by electronic signals from the electronic control unit 7.

[131] The vacuum pump 1 creates the suction force between the suction cups 101A, 101B and the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B by moving air trapped by the cup bases 13A and 13B to the outside of the hand grab 100. This suction force can provide the frictional resistive force that can resist loads, i.e., loads applied to the main body 21 and handle 20. The vacuum pump 1 includes an air entrance 1A and an air exit IB.

[132] The vacuum pump 1 is an electrical vacuum pump, which may be a positive displacement device driven by an electrical motor, including a diaphragm pump, a bellows pump or any other suitable type of positive displacement device. In some other embodiments, this vacuum pump 1 may rely on a hydrodynamic mechanism, e.g., an ejector, instead of positive displacement.

[133] In some embodiments, the vacuum pump 1 may be a diaphragm pump with a plastic housing driven by a DC motor, including a low voltage DC motor. [134] As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 6, a suction port 25 is formed on the cup base 13A, allowing air to be drawn by the vacuum pump 1 from the suction cup 101 A in order to generate a partial vacuum between the cup base 13 A and the corresponding attachment surface 15 A.

[135] In addition, as described hereinafter, the suction port 25 may connect with a filter 5. Further, as described hereinafter, in some embodiments, the suction port 25 may further include a pressure transducer.

[136] A suction port 24 is formed on the cup base 13 A, and a suction port 23 is formed on the cup base 13B, with an air communication channel formed between the suction port 24 and the suction port 23.

[137] The air communication channel allows air to be drawn from the suction cup 10 IB to the suction cup 101 A, so that when the vacuum pump 1 is operating, a vacuum can be generated in both the suction cup 101 A and the suction cup 10 IB.

[138] As shown in Fig. 6, the suction ports 23, 24 and 25 are formed on the bottom surfaces of the cup bases 13 A, 13B. The suction port 23 is formed on the bottom surface of the cup base 13B, while the suction ports 24 and 25 are formed on the bottom surface of the cup base 13 A.

[139] Further, as shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, a vent 16 is formed on the main body 21 of the same suction cup 101A in which the vacuum pump 1 is located. The vent 16 connects to the air exit IB of the vacuum pump 1, allows air flow out of the hand grab 100 during operation in the case of activating the vacuum pump 1, and (as described

hereinafter) allows air flow into the hand grab 100 in the case of opening the vacuum release valve 3. The vent 16 may be located at any convenient place on the hand grab 100 so long as it is not within a cup base.

[140] The vacuum pump 1 can be a single-direction pump.

Check Valve 6 [141] As shown in Fig. 2, a check valve 6 connects to the air entrance 1A of the vacuum pump 1 to resist or to block air leaking into the suction volume. The check valve 6 allows air flow in a single direction, that being from the cup bases 13A and 13B towards the vacuum pump 1. As a result, when the vacuum pump 1 is operating, air flows through the hand grab 100; when the vacuum pump 1 stops operating, the air that would otherwise be drawn backwards into the cup bases 13 A and 13B is stopped by the check valve 6, and a degree of vacuum is maintained between the cup bases 13A and 13B and the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B even with the vacuum pump 1 turned off, thereby allowing the hand grab 100 to continue to adhere to the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B. The check valve 6 can be a spring-loaded wafer-type valve.

[142] The check valve 6 is separate from the vacuum pump 1, can improve vacuum retention, and reduces or eliminates reliance on seals within the vacuum pump 1, control of the vacuum pump 1, and/or use of electrical energy. Thus maintenance of the vacuum level need not rely on pump seals in the electrical vacuum pump 1, an electronic control unit 7, or stored energy in the hand grab 100.

Filter 5

[143] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may further include an air filter 5 between the suction port 25 and the check valve 6 for filtering the incoming air. The filter 5 is retained by an openable fitting on the exterior of the hand grab 100.

[144] The filter 5 may ensure that particulate matter greater than a certain average size is unable to enter the vacuum pump 1 and valves of the hand grab 100. As the vacuum pump 1 and valves are susceptible to blockage and wear through ingress of foreign bodies and material from the operating environment, the filter 5 may protect the valves and pump (which could be damaged should this material become lodged within or pass through them), and thereby improve the long-term reliability of the hand grab 100. The vacuum pump 1 and valves may be smaller than average pumps and valves in order to reduce the size and weight of the hand grab 100, and may therefore be particularly susceptible to blockage and wear from ingress of foreign bodies and/or moisture. [145] Further, the filter 5 may be removable from the hand grab 100 by the user by hand, i.e., by manually operating the openable fitting (e.g., a screw fitting, or a press-fit fitting). The openable fitting can include a threaded plug that screws into a boss, where both the plug and the boss have a central opening or air channel. The filter 5 is retained at a base of the boss due to compression by the plug when screwed into the boss. When the plug is unscrewed, the filter 5 is released, and may be removed and replaced. The plug is accessible from the exterior of the hand grab 100, and is manually attachable and removable by screwing the plug into or out of the boss.

[146] If the filter were not accessible to the user and it became blocked, the hand grab 100 may have to be returned for professional service. Further, if the filter were not readily removable, the suction cup may have to be opened to access the filter and then re- sealed, which may affect the unit's long-term resistance to water ingress.

[147] A readily user-removable air filter may protect the internal components of the hand grab, reducing operating and maintenance costs, and maximizing the life of the hand grab 100.

[148] As shown in Fig. 6, the openable fitting for the filter 5 may be located on the bottom surface of the cup base 13 A, around the suction port 25.

[149] Having the filter 5 located on the bottom surface of the cup base 13 A (i.e., exposed to the vacuum area) may ensure the filter 5 is readily removable by the user without disassembling the suction cup 101A. It may also protect the filter 5 from potential scratch hazards and/or direct exposure to water or moisture, e.g., when used in a bathroom or any other wet or moist environment. This may reduce potential damage to the filter 5 and thereby improve the long-term reliability of the hand grab 100.

[150] In some other embodiments, the hand grab 100 may further include a separate filter located on the main body 21 or the cup base 13B, around the suction port 23, for filtering the air incoming through the suction port 23. [151] In some embodiments, the filter 5 has a disc form. It may be made from sintered metal or any other suitable material. The filter 5 may generate a small pressure drop.

Vacuum Pump Unload Valve 2

[152] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may further include a vacuum pump unload valve 2, two ends of which are connected to the air entrance 1A and the air exit IB of the vacuum pump 1, respectively. Operation of the unload valve 2 is controlled by electronic signals from the electronic control unit 7.

[153] As will be described in detail hereinafter, when the vacuum pump 1 has been running and achieved the desired degree of vacuum within the suction cup 101 A and 10 IB (i.e., the preselected safe vacuum level), it is automatically stopped by the vacuum sensor 4 and the electronic control unit 7.

[154] In some embodiments, when the vacuum pump 1 is of a positive displacement type, valves are part of the pump and have the effect of restricting backwards flow, i.e., flow from outlet to inlet. Consequently, when the vacuum pump 1 stops, there may be a degree of vacuum retained on the inlet side of the vacuum pump 1.

[155] Thus, when the vacuum pump 1 starts again, it would be operating against any such retained suction pressure. This has the effect of increasing starting torque, such that the vacuum pump 1 may be unable to start, or may start and run causing self-damage and wear by use of excessive current and the generation of associated heat.

[156] The vacuum pump unload valve 2 may avoid this problem. The vacuum pump unload valve 2 opens briefly and then re-closes prior to the vacuum pump 1 restarting, allowing air flow from the vent into the vacuum pump 1, so that any vacuum retained in the vacuum pump 1 may be dissipated.

[157] In some embodiments, the vacuum pump unload valve 2 may also be opened briefly, controlled by electronic signals from the electronic control unit 7, while the vacuum pump 1 is being started. Then the vacuum pump 1 may be started slowly, controlled by electronic signals from the electronic control unit 7, to reduce its starting current requirements and thereby reduce contactor brush wear and reduce voltage drop in the electrical supply.

Vacuum Release Valve 3

[158] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 includes a vacuum release valve 3, between the cup bases 13A and 13B and the vent 16.

[159] The vacuum release valve 3 may be an electrically operated, normally closed valve. It is opened by the electronic control unit 7 when the user provides an input to release the hand grab 100 from the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B. Operation of the vacuum release valve 3 is controlled by electronic signals from the electronic control unit 7.

[160] When the vacuum release valve 3 and the vacuum pump unload valve 2 are closed, this allows the vacuum pump 1 to move air from the cup bases 13 A and 13B to the vent 16, creating a partial vacuum / negative pressure between the cup bases 13A and 13B and the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B.

[161] When the vacuum pump 1 is not operating, and the vacuum release valve 3 opens, atmospheric air is able to flow through the vent 16 through the cup bases 13 A and 13B, and into the partially evacuated volume, thereby reducing the partial vacuum pressure until equilibrium with atmospheric pressure is substantially achieved. When this happens, the suction force and the corresponding fnctional force are lost, and the hand grab 100 may be removed by the user from the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B.

Vacuum Sensor 4

[162] As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 11, the hand grab 100 may further include the vacuum sensor 4, which monitors the vacuum pressures between the cup bases 13A and 13B and the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B. The vacuum sensor 4 can be a pressure sensor. [163] In some embodiments, the vacuum sensor 4 may be an electrically normally open, binary- state (ON/OFF) device that changes state at pre-determined vacuum pressures.

[164] The vacuum sensor 4 may have a degree of hysteresis, so that it changes state at differing vacuum levels depending on whether the partial vacuum is increasing or decreasing. By this arrangement, this may allow the negative pressure between the cup bases 13A and 13B and the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B to be maintained within a predetermined range (between the preselected minimum vacuum level and a preselected maximum vacuum level, the latter being referred to as the "preselected safe vacuum level"), so that the hand grab 100 can generate sufficient fnctional forces to operate safely for a long period of time.

[165] In some implementations, the vacuum sensor 4 may also be a pressure transducer that generates an electrical output with a known relationship to the negative pressure between the cup bases 13A, 13B and the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B. This electrical output may be sent to the electronic control unit 7, where its value is used to control the vacuum pump 1, thereby eliminating the need for the hysteresis of the vacuum sensor 4.

[166] The vacuum sensor 4 can be a surface-mount component affixed and electrically connected to the electronic control unit 7.

Electronic Control Unit 7

[167] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may include at least one electronic controller in the form of the electronic control unit 7 configured to control the electrical vacuum pump 1 to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor 4 detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level (i.e., a preselected / predefined minimum negative pressure level).

[168] The electronic control unit 7 responds to the user's inputs and sends signals to the vacuum pump 1, and the valves (e.g., vacuum pump unload valve 2 and vacuum release valve 3) to control their operations accordingly. [169] Further, the electronic control unit 7 may receive the electrical signal from the vacuum sensor 4, and convert this into meaningful information (i.e., electronically readable data) representing the vacuum level between the cup bases 13 A and 13B and the attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B, and use this information to control the vacuum pump 1 and the valves based on data-processing routines or functions in the electronic control unit 7.

[170] In this way, the electronic control unit 7 may control the operation of the vacuum pump 1 and the valves in an autonomous manner, and may ensure that the hand grab 100 maintains the vacuum pressure within the desired range (i.e., between the selected minimum and a selected maximum (referred to as the "preselected safe vacuum level") stored in the electronic control unit 7), hence stabilizing the frictional force between the hand grab 100 and the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B for a long period of time.

[171] The electronic control unit 7 may also monitor the battery unit's charge level, and may warn the user when the battery unit's charge level gets too low for safe use and/or requires re-charging.

[172] In addition, when the external power supply is connected to the battery charging port 12 (to charge the hand grab 100), the electronic control unit 7 may control the rate and duration of the battery recharging process. This may allow the battery unit to be charged using a specific known process to maximize its operating life.

[173] As will be described hereinafter, the electronic control unit 7 may also produce electrical outputs to control a loudspeaker 28 and/or visual indicators 9B and 10B).

[174] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit 7 may include discrete, functional elements which together perform the controlling functions as described hereinbefore. The electronic control unit 7 may include a microprocessor-based system, e.g., a purpose-built, microprocessor-based system.

[175] In some other embodiments, the electronic control unit 7 may include a controller which by itself performs the controlling functions as described hereinbefore, e.g., a commercially available single-board microcontroller that has been configured to operated as described herein, e.g., an Arduino microcontroller or 8-bit microprocessor. [176] In summary, the electronic control unit 7 includes a device to maintain the operating voltage (charge pump), perform battery charging, drive the vacuum pump 1, drive the valves 2, 3, drive the indicators 9B, 10B, drive the loudspeaker 28, and drive the other internal components.

Power Storage Unit 8

[177] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 further includes the battery unit in the form of a power storage unit 8, which stores electrical energy that is used to operate the internal components, including the vacuum pump 1, vacuum release valve 3, and vacuum pump unload valve 2. As will be described hereinafter, it may also supply electrical energy to other components of the hand grab 100, which may include the loudspeaker 28 and the visual indicators 9B and 10B.

[178] The power storage unit 8 includes a battery, which may be a single battery cell or a plurality of battery cells. For example, the battery may be a re-chargeable battery that does not need to be removed by the user for recharging. In some other embodiments, the battery may be one or more dry battery cells, which can be removed and replaced by the user when out of power or with little power left. In some further embodiments, the battery may be a removable battery pack that allows charging offline, and thereby allows almost continuous use of the hand grab 100 by using a spare battery or second battery. The removable battery pack connects electrically to the power storage unit 8 to supply the electrical power. The removable battery pack can be manually removed for recharging and replaced with another equivalent removable battery pack, e.g., from a remote battery charger.

Battery Charging Port 12

[179] In some embodiments, when the power storage unit 8 includes at least one rechargeable battery, the hand grab 100 further includes a battery charging port 12, as shown in Fig. 2, for using an external power supply to charge the rechargeable battery in the power storage unit 8. The battery charging port 12 may be located on one of the cup bases, e.g., on the cup base 13B. [180] The external power supply may be connected to the battery charging port 12 when the hand grab 100 is not in use and the internal battery has insufficient charge. This serves to replenish the electrical charge level in the battery.

[181] The battery charging port 12 may be water-proof, and be vacuum proof, i.e., vacuum sealed, e.g., moisture rated to Ingress Protection (IP) 66 and including a conformal coating on the inside to resist the negative pressure, e.g., of 60 kPa. The IP66 enclosure may be referred to as "dust tight" and protected against heavy seas or powerful jets of water. It may allow the hand grab 100 to be charged by a range of external power supply devices, including fixed output power supplies and portable chargers.

[182] The battery charging port 12 may be formed on the bottom surface of the cup base 13B, which faces the attachment surface 15B. In some embodiments, it may be formed at the center of the bottom surface, as shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 9.

[183] Having the battery charging port 12 located on the bottom surface of the cup base 13B may protect the battery charging port 12 from potential scratch hazards and/or direct exposure to water or moisture, e.g., when used in a bathroom or any other wet or moist environment. This may reduce potential damage to the battery charging port 12, and thereby improve the long-term reliability of the hand grab 100.

Other Components

[184] As shown in Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may further include some other components, including controls through which the user can control the operation of the hand grab 100, and indicators which inform the user of the operation status of the hand grab 100.

ON/OFF Control 11

[185] The hand grab 100 may include an ON/OFF control 11, used by the user to activate and deactivate the electronic components of the hand grab 100, e.g., the vacuum sensor 4 and the electronic control unit 7. The ON/OFF control 11 may be a button or a switch. [186] As shown in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the ON/OFF control 11 may be located on the bottom surface of a cup base, e.g., the cup base 13A, i.e., in a portion of the hand grab 100 that lies within the suction volume when in use. In some embodiments, it may be located in the centre of the bottom surface of the cup base 13 A, 13B.

[187] Having the ON/OFF control 11 located on the bottom surface of a cup base may reduce the probability of the hand grab 100 being accidentally or inadvertently operated while the hand grab 100 is being used.

[188] It may also protect the ON/OFF control 11 from potential scratch hazard and/or direct exposure to water or moisture, e.g., when used in a bathroom or any other wet or moist environment. This may reduce potential damage to the ON/OFF control 11 and thereby improve the long-term reliability of the hand grab 100.

[189] In some other embodiments, the ON/OFF control 11 may be located on the main body 21 of one of the suction cups 101 A and 10 IB.

[190] The ON/OFF control may be water proof and vacuum proof. The ON/OFF control 11 may be a robust, water-sealed button. In addition, the ON/OFF control 11 may be fitted with a static seal where it mounts onto the cup base, which allows the ON/OFF control 11 to be vacuum sealed, e.g., moisture rated to IP65 and including a conformal coating on the inside to resist the negative pressure, e.g., of 60 kPa. The IP65 enclosure may be referred to as "dust tight" and protected against water projected from a nozzle. The static seal includes an O-ring, or any other suitable type of seal.

Attach Control 9A

[191] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may include an attach control 9A, for the user to activate suction in the hand grab 100 and enable it to attach strongly to the rigid attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B. The attach control 9 A can be connected to the electronic control unit 7, where the electronic control unit 7 receives the input from the attach control 9A and activates and controls the vacuum pump 1 accordingly. The attach control 9A activates closed-loop operation of the electronic controller to control the vacuum pump 1 based on the vacuum sensor 4 to establish and maintain the vacuum level above the preselected minimum vacuum level. The closed-loop operation of the electrical vacuum pump based on the vacuum sensor is also referred to as "closed-loop control". For example, suction may be activated by the user pressing the attach control 9A. The attach control 9A may be a button, e.g., a push button, or a switch. The attach control 9A can be an attach button that provides one-touch attachment, i.e., need only be pressed once to enter the closed-loop operation.

[192] In some embodiments, the attach control 9A may be a robust, water-sealed button, e.g., moisture rated to IP65 and including a conformal coating on the inside to resist environmental ingress, i.e., ingress of water or other material that could damage the internal components. The attach control 9A may normally be open and close momentarily only when pressed.

[193] In some embodiments, the attach control 9A may have a raised section that is easy to locate for the user, e.g., for people with reduced fine motor skills or reduced vision.

[194] Further, the attach control 9A may be operated by only a very slight finger pressure, e.g., a 400 gram force or a force less than 6N, e.g., around 4N, which may make it suitable to people with reduced strength. Further, the attach control 9 A may be operated by only a small movement of the user's finger, e.g., a movement less than 2mm, e.g., about 1.5mm, which may make it easier to be used by people with reduced fine motor skills.

[195] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 9, the attach control 9A may be located on the main body 21 of a suction cup, e.g. suction cup 101B.

[196] In addition, the attach control 9A may be fitted with a static seal where it is mounted onto the main body 21 of the suction cup.

Release Control 10A

[197] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, the hand grab 100 may include a release control 10A, for the user to release suction from the hand grab 100 and enable it to be removed from the rigid attachment surfaces 15 A, 15B. For example, suction may be released by the user pressing the release control 10A. The release control 10A may be connected to the electronic control unit 7, where the electronic control unit 7 receives the input from the release control 10A, and ensures that the vacuum pump 1 is turned off and that the vacuum release valve 3 opens and remains open, until the suction pressure is near atmospheric and the hand grab 100 can be removed. The release control 10A deactivates the closed-loop operation and releases air into the suction volume. The release control 10A may be a button, e.g., a push button, or a switch. The release control 10A can be a release button that provides one-touch release, i.e., need only be pressed once to exit the closed-loop operation and open the vacuum release valve 3.

[198] In some embodiments, the release control 10A may be a robust, water-sealed button, e.g., moisture rated to IP65 and including a conformal coating on the inside to resist environmental ingress. The release control 10A may normally be open and close momentarily only when pressed.

[199] In some embodiments, the release control 10A may have a raised section that is easy to locate for the user, e.g., for people with reduced fine motor skills or reduced vision.

[200] Further, the release control 10A may be operated by only a very slight finger pressure, e.g., a force the same as for the attach control 9A, which may make it suitable to people with reduced strength. Further, the release control 10A may be operated by only a small movement of the user's finger, e.g., a movement less than 2mm, e.g., about 1.5mm, which may make it easier to be used by people with reduced fine motor skill.

[201] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 7, the release control 10A may be located on the main body 21 of a suction cup, e.g., a suction cup different from the suction cup where the attach control 9A is located.

[202] In addition, the release control 10A may be fitted with a static seal where it is mounted onto the main body 21 of the suction cup.

[203] In some other embodiments, the attach control 9 A and the release control 10A may be integrated into one component, which allows the user to activate or release suction by different operations, e.g., to activate suction by pressing the button for a relatively short period of time, and to release suction by pressing the button for a relatively long period of time.

[204] In some other embodiments, the ON/OFF control 11, the attach control 9 A and the release control 10A may be integrated into one component, which allows the user to turn the hand grab on or off, or to activate or release suction, by different operations. For example, the integrated component may be a ternary- state switch or dial that controls the electronic control unit 7 to select one of the following three states: (i) power off, (ii) activate suction (i.e., apply suction), and (iii) release suction.

[205] In some other embodiments, the hand grab 100 may be turned on or off by operating the attach control 9 A and/or the release control 10A in a pre-determined way, including combination of operations to the attach control 9A and the release control 10A. In this way, function of the ON/OFF control 11 may be achieved without having a separate ON/OFF control 11.

[206] However, having the ON/OFF control 11, the attach control 9 A and the release control 10A separate may reduce the probability of the hand grab 100 being operated wrongly or unintentionally by accident or mistake.

Attach Indicator 9B

[207] As shown in Fig.2, the hand grab 100 may include an attach indicator 9B.

[208] The attach indicator 9B may be a visual indicator, which may be driven (i.e., electronically controlled using electronic signals) by the electronic control unit 7. The attach indicator 9B can be water proof. In some embodiments, the attach indicator 9B may include one or more LED lights, e.g., an annular- shaped green-coloured LED light. The attach indicator 9B can be adjacent to the attach control 9A, e.g., combined with the attach control 9A, e.g., an integrated light surrounding the attach control 9A, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 5. In some other embodiments, the attach indicator 9B may have any other suitable shape and any other suitable colour. In some other embodiments, the attach indicator 9B may include a digital displaying device, e.g., a LED display. [209] The attach indicator 9B may have a plurality of different lighting or displaying statuses for indicating different respective statuses of the hand grab 100.

[210] In some embodiments, for example, the attach indicator 9B may include one or more lights arranged and driven to have at least some of the following lighting statuses (or "states"), each indicating a different operation status or power status of the hand grab 100: a. When the hand grab 100 is turned on, but no vacuum is being applied, the attach indicator 9B flashes a series of pulses followed by a set duration pause, and then repeats the series and the pause. This shows the user that the hand grab 100 is ready for use, and which button to press in order to activate the hand grab 100. Further, the number of flashes shown in each cycle may be indicative of, e.g., proportional to, the battery charge level determined by the electronic control unit 7. In this manner the user may be made aware of the hand grab 100' s suitability for use and when re-charging may be required (this is the "ready-to-use" state). b. When the hand grab 100 is turned on and the vacuum pump 1 is operating (i.e., the hand grab 100 is in a vacuum-application state) and the vacuum sensor 4 measures that the vacuum is increasing, the attach indicator 9B flashes quickly and continuously (i.e., indicating that the hand grab 100 is attempting to generate a partial vacuum), which is the "evacuating state". c. When the hand grab 100 is turned on and the measured partial vacuum is more than the selected minimum vacuum pressure (as determined by the electronic control unit 7), the attach indicator 9B is steadily or solidly on, indicating that sufficient partial vacuum has been attained so the hand grab 100 can act as a support device. The electronic control unit 7 is configured to activate the attach indicator 9B when the vacuum sensor 4 detects the vacuum level being greater than the preselected safe vacuum level. Thus the hand grab 100 tells a user when it is safe to use. The attach indicator 9B, e.g., the green light, is active when the hand grab 100 is safe to use (i.e., in the "safe state"), and off when the hand grab 100 is not safe to use, either due to the vacuum level being too low, or the battery being too low to power the hand grab 100.

[211] These lighting statuses may allow the user to quickly and easily see if the hand grab 100 is safe to use, and whether sufficient vacuum has been attained. If the attach indicator 9B (green) is in the safe state (e.g., solidly on), the hand grab 100 is safe— if it is not on, it is not safe.

[212] If the vacuum pump 1 is turned on and at least some detectable level of sealing of the seals 14A and 14B is achieved with the respective surfaces 15A and 15B (i.e., the detectable level is measurable by the vacuum sensor 4), but the minimum partial vacuum cannot be reached (e.g., because the attachment surface 15A, 15B is too porous), the user can easily tell because the attach indicator 9B continues to flash because the hand grab 100 remains in the vacuum-application state. The user can also determine that a vacuum seal has not been created between the seals 14 A, 14B and respective surfaces 15 A, 15B (which causes the detectable vacuum level to be zero) because the attach indicator 9B does not flash and the loudspeaker 28 does not make its characteristic "attaching" sound. In this way, the user can be directed to manipulate the hand grab 100 in an attempt to effect a better seal so that the vacuum can be increased by operation of the pump 1, i.e., guided by indications from the attach indicator 9B and the loudspeaker 28.

[213] In some other embodiments, the attach indicator 9B may have other suitable lighting or displaying statuses, indicating the above or other operation status of the hand grab 100.

Release Indicator 10B

[214] As shown in Fig.2, the hand grab 100 may include a release indicator 10B.

[215] The release indicator 10B may be a visual indicator, which may be driven by the electronic control unit 7. The release indicator 10B can be water proof.

[216] In some embodiments, the release indicator 10B may include one or more LED lights, e.g., an annular- shaped red-coloured LED light. The release indicator 10B can be adjacent to the release control 10A, e.g., combined with the release control 10A, e.g., an integrated light surrounding the release control 10A, as shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 5. In some other embodiments, the attach indicator 10B may have any other suitable shape and any other suitable colour. In some other embodiments, the attach indicator 10B may include a digital displaying device, e.g., a LED display.

[217] The release indicator 10B may have a plurality of different lighting or displaying statuses for indicating respective different statuses (or "states") of the hand grab 100.

[218] In some embodiments, the release indicator 10B may include one or more lights arranged and driven to have at least some of the following lighting statuses, each indicating a different operation status or power status (or "state") of the hand grab 100: a. When the hand grab 100 is turned on, and there is very little charge remaining in the battery, the release indicator 10B turns on solidly and steadily to show that the battery requires charging and that the hand grab 100 is not ready for further use, this occurs both when the negative pressure has been established, and prior to the establishment thereof (this is the "charging required state"). b. When the release control 10A has been pressed/activated (i.e., the hand grab 100 is in a releasing state) and the vacuum release valve 3 is open, the release indicator 10B turns on solidly and steadily until the partial pressure has been released— when the partial vacuum/pressure has been released, the vacuum release valve 3 is then closed (this is the "releasing state"). c. When the battery unit is being charged, the release indicator 10B turns on by progressively increasing in luminosity until it is fully illuminated, and then turns off by progressively decreasing in luminosity until it is fully off, and repeats this cycle (this is the "charging state").

[219] Having the release indicator 10B indicate clearly that release control 10A has been pressed/activated (i.e., that the hand grab 100 is in the releasing state) alerts the user to not use the hand grab 100 to assist balance, and to support the hand grab 100 before it loosens from the body or article 15.

[220] These lighting statuses may allow the user to quickly and easily see if the hand grab 100 is safe to use, and whether the hand grab 100 is ready to be removed from the attachment surfaces 15A, 15B after use.

[221] In some other embodiments, the release indicator 10B may have other suitable lighting or displaying statuses, indicating the above or other operation status of the hand grab 100.

[222] Further, in some other embodiments, the attach indicator 9B and the release indicator 10B may be integrated into one indicating component, which has different lighting or displaying statuses to indicate different operation status of the hand grab 100.

Tactile Indicators 18 and 19

[223] In some embodiments, the hand grab 100 may further include a tactile indicator 18 and a tactile indicator 19, for indicating the location of the attach control 9A and release control 10A respectively with tactile features.

[224] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 5, the tactile indicator 18 may include a raised surface feature on the outside of the main body 21 surrounding or adjacent to the attach indicator 9B and the attach control 9A. It may have a characteristic shape resembling a vertical line, or vertical stroke ( I ). The tactile indicator 19 may include a raised surface feature on the outside of the main body 21 surrounding or adjacent to the release indicator 10B and the release control 10A. It may have a characteristic shape resembling a circle (O).

[225] In embodiments, both tactile indicators 18, 19 can include a tactile top surface that is perpendicular to the bisecting plane of the hand grab 100 (i.e., along the line Y-Y in Fig. 5). The tactile indicators 18, 19 can include sides that project from the curved surface of the main body 21, and that connect the curved surface of the main body 21 to the respective upper surfaces of the tactile indicators 18, 19, thus forming the respective raised surface features. Having the upper surfaces of the tactile indicators 18, 19 perpendicular to the bisecting plane allows each half of the hand grab 100 on opposite sides of the bisecting plane to be formed in a mould, which can be an injection mould, and then separated from the mould along a line perpendicular to the bisecting plane. The sides of the tactile indicators 18, 19 can be perpendicular to the bisecting plane for similar reasons. The tactile indicators 18, 19 can have different shapes based on the spacing between parallel sides of each tactile indicator 18, 19 perpendicular to the bisecting plane, and/or by differing lengths of the tactile indicators 18, 19 in the direction perpendicular to the bisecting plane, or by having only one of the tactile indicators 18, 19 (thus the absence of a tactile indicator 18, 19 indicating of the difference).

[226] In some other embodiments, the tactile indicators 18 and 19 may have any other suitable shape.

[227] Further, the tactile indicator 18 and the tactile indicator 19 may have different tactile statuses for indicating to the user different operation statuses of the hand grab 100, e.g., different vibrating / static statuses or patterns.

[228] In this manner, vision-impaired users may be assisted in operating the hand grab 100 and knowing the status of the hand grab.

Loudspeaker 28 and Loudspeaker Port 17

[229] As shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 10, the hand grab 100 may further include a loudspeaker 28, which may be driven by the electronic control unit 7.

[230] The loudspeaker 28 may emit a range of audible tones, the pitch and sequence of these tones each corresponding with a particular operation or status of the hand grab 100.

[231] As shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, a loudspeaker port 17 may be formed on the main body 21 of a suction cup, e.g., the suction cup 101B. The loudspeaker port 17 allows sound waves from the loudspeaker 28 to escape the main body 21 and be heard by the user. [232] In this manner, vision-impaired users may be assisted in knowing the status of the hand grab 100.

[233] When the hand grab 100 is in the vacuum- application state, the loudspeaker 28 is driven to generate a tonal sequence that is specific to that state (i.e., that only occurs when the suction is increasing), which can indicate to the user that the attach control 9A has been pressed, but the suction cup(s) 101A, 101B (and thus the seals 14A, 14B) are not properly placed to create a vacuum seal.

[234] The loudspeaker 28 can be driven by the control unit 7 with equivalent signals to those described hereinbefore for the attach indicator 9B and the release indicator 10B such that the attach indicator and the release indicator can effectively be provided by the loudspeaker 28, thus providing equivalent audible indicators instead of, or in addition, to the visual indicators the attach indicator 9B and the release indicator 10B.

Operation

[235] As will be described in detail hereinafter, a method of using the hand grab 100 includes the following steps:

(a) preparation, including confirming the level of electrical charge;

(b) attachment of the hand grab 100 to at least one attachment surface 15 A, 15B; and

(c) release of the hand grab 100 from the attachment surface 15 A, 15B.

[236] The or each attachment surface 15 A, 15B is a rigid, non-porous (i.e., able to support the vacuum), fixed entity to which the hand grab 100 is attached. The or each attachment surface 15A, 15B is the exposed surface of the body or article 15, as shown in Fig. 2.

Step (a): preparation [237] Before attaching the hand grab 100 to the attachment surface(s) 15A, 15B, the user may first switch the hand grab 100 on using the ON/OFF control 11, and assess the level of electrical charge by observing the attach / release indicators 9B and 10B.

[238] If the visual status of the attach / release indicators 9B and 10B indicate that the charge level is adequate, the hand grab 100 may be used immediately.

[239] If the visual status of the attach and release indicators 9B and 10B indicate that the charge level is inadequate, the user may connect the hand grab 100 to a suitable external electrical charger and wait until the indicators indicate that the hand grab 100 is sufficiently charged and ready for use.

[240] In some embodiments, the user may refer to alternative indicators to ascertain the status of the hand grab 100 in preparation for its use. Such indicators may include tactile indicators (e.g. vibrating) or audible indicators from the loudspeaker 28.

Step (b): attachment/ use of hand grab 100

[241] If the attach / release indicators 9B and 10B indicate that the hand grab 100 is ready for use, the user may then select a suitable place on the body or article 15 for the hand grab 100 to be attached and then position it accordingly.

[242] The user may then press the attach control 9A while still holding the hand grab 100 in place. The user may hold the hand grab 100 by holding the handle 20.

[243] Once the input from the attach control 9A has been received, the electronic control unit 7 briefly opens and then closes the vacuum pump unload valve to ensure that the vacuum pump starts under no load. Then the electronic control unit 7 ensures that the vacuum release valve 3 is closed and activates the vacuum pump 1. The electronic control unit 7 can drive the vacuum pump 1 using pulse- width modulation (PWM) to reduce starting current and brush wear of the vacuum pump 1.

[244] During the operation of the vacuum pump 1, the electronic control unit 7 receives input from the vacuum sensor 4 and monitors the level of vacuum created. [245] When the correct level of vacuum is achieved (detected and determined by the electronic control unit 7), the electronic control unit 7 turns the vacuum pump 1 off, and controls the attach indicator 9 A to show that the hand grab 100 is safely attached and ready for use. The user may then use the attached hand grab 100 to assist maintaining personal balance, by holding the handle 20 and/or the finger recess(es) 22.

[246] If the partial vacuum level reduces (the negative pressure increases), the vacuum sensor 4 detects this change, and this information can be monitored by the electronic control unit 7. In some implementations, the vacuum sensor 4 is a transducer. The electronic control unit 7 continuously reads this transducer and controls the vacuum pump 1 accordingly. When the electronic control unit 7 determines that the monitored vacuum level (i.e., the measured partial vacuum) is less than the selected minimum vacuum pressure, the electronic control unit 7 re-starts the vacuum pump 1, attempting to re-establish the correct minimum level of vacuum. The change of status may also be shown by the indicators, to inform the user whether the hand grab 100 is safely attached and ready to be used, as described hereinbefore. Further, when the vacuum is being generated or increased, the electronic control unit 7 may also control the loudspeaker 28 to make an audible message, e.g., an ascending tonal sequence, to inform the user, as described hereinbefore.

[247] If the hand grab 100 is unable to re-establish a suitable suction pressure (i.e., above the selected minimum), an enunciator message may be used to indicate to the user that the hand grab 100 is unable to be used, e.g., through the indicators or the loudspeaker 28.

Step (c): release of hand grab 100

[248] When the user has finished using the hand grab 100 to assist maintaining personal balance, the user may release the hand grab 100 from the attachment surface(s) 15A, 15B.

[249] The user may release the hand grab 100 by firstly holding the hand grab 100, e.g., holding the handle 20, not relying on the hand grab 100 to maintain balance. The user may then press the release control 10A which opens the vacuum release valve 3 and ensures that the vacuum pump 1 is off.

[250] Atmospheric air then flows in through the vent 16 into the cup bases 13 A and 13B, which reduces the level of vacuum between the cup bases and the attachment surfaces.

[251] When the level of pressure between the cup bases and the attachment surfaces substantially equals atmospheric pressure, the hand grab 100 loses the attachment to the attachment surface and may be safely removed.

Manufacturing

[252] The hand grab 100 may be manufactured using a method, including: a. injection moulding the suction cup 101A, 101B and the grip body of the handle 20; b. assembling the suction cup 101A, 101B and the grip body of the handle 20; c. overmoulding the grip 1600 on the grip body to form the handle 20 after assembling the suction cup 101A, 101B and the grip body; d. installing the internal components to (i.e., onto or into) the suction cup 101 A, 101B (which can include onto/into the main body 21 and/or the cup base 13A, 13B); and e. securing the cup base 13 A, 13B to the corresponding main body 21 to form each suction cup 101 A, 101B.

[253] The main body 21 and the cup bases 13A and 13B may be made by injection moulding. In some implementations, the main body 21 is formed by two halves on opposite sides of the bisecting plane (along line Y-Y in Fig. 5). This can avoid or mitigate undercuts in an open-and-shut moulding process. [254] Each of the two halves can have the exterior, curved surface entirely exposed in a direction perpendicular to the bisecting plane to enable removal of the half from the mould in the direction perpendicular to the bisecting plane.

[255] When the main body 21 is formed in two halves, the two halves of the main body 21 may be assembled together, e.g., by gluing or welding or any other appropriate means.

[256] This assembly may then be placed in an injection moulding tool comprising a cavity that is the shape of the finished grip enhancing member of the handle 20.

[257] An elastomeric thermoplastic material may then be injected into the cavity to overmould the casing for enhancing grip.

[258] The electrical and pneumatic subassemblies may be assembled and installed into the hand grab 100 after the overmoulding to mitigate potential damage of the electrical and pneumatic subassemblies by high temperatures and pressures involved with the overmoulding process.

[259] The cup bases 13 A, 13B can be secured to the respective main bodies 21 of each suction cup 101A, 101B by screws.

Transport Shield

[260] As shown in Figs. 14A and 14B, the hand grab 100 may include a transport shield 1402 that fits over the ON/OFF control 11 to stop the ON/OFF control 11 being activated while the transport shield 1402 is in place. The transport shield 1402 is releasably held by its pliable resilient sides 1404, which can form a circle, that fit into an aperture 1406 (also referred to as a "recess") around the ON/OFF control 11 in the bottom surface of the cup base 13A, 13B. As shown in Figs. 7A, 14A and 14B, the recess 1406 for the ON/OFF control 11 allows the transport shield to be held in place (i.e., in an engaged condition shown in Fig. 14 A) by the natural resilience of the sides 1404 of the transport shield 1402 pressing against the surrounding walls of the recess 1406. The recess 1406 also distances/lifts the ON/OFF control 11 away from the surface 15A, 15B (i.e., into a disengaged condition shown in Fig. 14B) when the hand grab 100 is pressed against the surfaces 15A, 15B. A kit may also include the hand grab 100 and the transport shield 1402. The transport shield may be referred to as a "switch protector", "travel shield", "shield" or "cap".

Combination Tool

[261] As shown in Figs. 15A to 15E, the hand grab 100 can include a combination tool 1500 that includes: a filter-removal key 1502, a vacuum breaker 1504, a shield lift 1506 for lifting the transport shield 1402, and an attachment aperture 1508 for hanging the combination tool 1500 on a string, rope or necklace, etc. The combination tool 1500 can be referred to as a "multitool" or a "key". The filter-removal key 1502 includes a rotationally engaging portion, e.g., a hexagonal head, that engages with a cooperative engaging portion of the openable fitting that retains the filter 5, e.g., the threaded plug. The engaging portion of the openable fitting can be a hexagonal socket. As shown in Figs. 15A to 15E, the combination tool 1500 includes a lever arm, in the form of the vacuum breaker 1504, that extends from a rotational axis of the filter-removal key 1502, and this provides a lever for manual rotation of the filter-removal key 1502. The filter-removal key 1502 includes a blade that tapers to a thin distal end that can be slid under the suction seals 14 A, 14B to break the negative pressure. As shown in Fig. 15E, the vacuum breaker 1504 includes longitudinal ribs on at least one face of the blade, i.e., the face that lies adjacent to the surface 15A, 15B when slid under the suction seal 14A, 14B, that allow air to travel longitudinally under the blade of the vacuum breaker 1504, i.e., between the surface 15A, 15B and the vacuum breaker 1504, while the vacuum breaker 1504 is held against the surface 15A, 15B and is pushed between the surface 15A, 15B and the suction seal 14A, 14B. As shown in Figs. 15A and 15E, the lifter 1506 tapers to a broad thin edge for lifting the transport shield from ON/OFF control 11, e.g., engaging with an exposed ledge of the transport shield 1402. A kit may include the hand grab 100 and the combination tool 1500.

Interpretation

[262] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

[263] Many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A portable hand grab including:

at least one handle connected to the suction cups for gripping by hand;

at least one vacuum sensor for detecting a vacuum level in the suction volume; and at least one electronic controller configured to control the electrical vacuum pump to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level.

2. The portable hand grab of claim 1, including a check valve, separate from the electrical vacuum pump, to resist or to block air leaking into the suction volume.

3. The portable hand grab of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more suction cups include two or more suction cups, and the hand grab includes a flexible linkage that connects the suction cups.

4. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the suction cups include seal mounts for attaching respective seals that contact the attachment surfaces to define the suction volume, wherein the seals extend around respective vacuum-facing faces of the suction cups.

5. The portable hand grab of claim 4, wherein the seals are stressed by attachment to the seal mounts.

6. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 5, including an attach indicator, wherein the electronic controller is configured to activate the attach indicator when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being greater than a preselected safe vacuum level.

7. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 6, including:

8. The portable hand grab of claim 7, wherein the attach control is an attach button providing one-touch attachment, and the release control is a release button providing one- touch release.

9. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 8, including an ON/OFF control located in a portion of the portable hand grab that lies within the suction volume when in use.

10. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the handle includes a grip that is elastic.

11. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the suction cups include concave recesses that are adjacent to the handle to receive the hand.

12. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 11, including one or more finger recesses for gripping by fingers.

13. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 12, including a resilient cover that protects the electrical vacuum pump and the power storage unit.

14. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 13, including an air filter for filtering air flowing into the hand grab, the air filter being manually removable from the portable hand grab.

15. The portable hand grab of any one of claims 1 to 14, including a power storage unit for storing electrical energy and supplying the electrical energy to the electrical vacuum pump.

16. A kit including:

the portable hand grab of claim 9, and a transport shield for fitting over and shielding the ON/OFF control; or

the portable hand grab of claim 14, and a key to open the openable fitting of the air filter.

17. A method of manufacturing a portable hand grab including:

providing at least one handle connected to the suction cups for gripping by hand; providing at least one electrical vacuum pump for at least partially evacuating at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces; providing at least one vacuum sensor for detecting a vacuum level in the suction volume; and

providing at least one electronic controller configured to control the electrical vacuum pump to at least partially evacuate the suction volume when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being less than a preselected minimum vacuum level.

18. The method of claim 17, including:

injection moulding the suction cup and the grip body of the handle; assembling the suction cup and grip body;

overmoulding a grip on the grip body to form the handle after assembling the suction cup and the grip body; installing internal components to the suction cup; and

securing a cup base to a main body to form the suction cup.

19. A method of operating a portable hand grab including:

gripping the portable hand grab by hand;

attaching the portable hand grab to one or more respective attachment surfaces;; electronically detecting a vacuum level in at least one suction volume between the suction cups and the respective attachment surfaces; and

20. The method of claim 19, including activating an attach indicator when the vacuum sensor detects the vacuum level being greater than a preselected safe vacuum level.