Assist apparatus and method
US7395764B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jul 8, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 23, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/7507
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus for assisting an elderly or physically limited individual in walking or carrying items up or down a stairway includes a guide rail assembly fixedly positioned along the wall of a stairway. A handle is connected to a support bar assembly, and the support bar assembly attaches to the guide rail assembly. The guide rail assembly typically has a tubular inner rail fixedly housed within a tubular outer rail, the outer rail typically includes a guide track along its length, and the inner rail typically includes a pin slot which aligns with the guide track. To operate the apparatus, the user grasps the handle while supporting the upper body on the support bar and moves the support bar assembly along the guide track while walking along the stairway. The handle and support bar assembly can be placed into a braking position as needed while moving along the stairway. The apparatus is adaptable to any home, can help stabilize someone who has difficulty walking, and can provide assistance for carrying items such as laundry or groceries up or down the stairs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.