Retractable gripping apparatus for walking assistance devices

Abstract

A safety device provides a retractable gripping device for use in conjunction with walking assistance devices such that a user may safely navigate on slippery surfaces. An activating mechanism is provided for user convenience. A locking mechanism moves into a locked position. To deactivate the gripping device, the user again activates a deactivating device to return the gripping device back to its retracted, deactivated position. The gripping device is configured such that it may be used in conjunction with existing walking assistance devices. The retractable gripping mechanism and locking device are preferably controlled by the user with minimal effort, with the control mechanism positioned at or near where the users hands are positioned during use.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application relates to and claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 526,924 filed Aug. 24, 2011 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 637,667 filed Mar. 24, 2012, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein fully by reference.FIGURE FOR PUBLICATION[0002]FIG. 9ABACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1. Field of the Invention[0004]The present invention relates to a safety apparatus and method for preventing slipping of walking assistance devices such as crutches, canes, walkers, and / or other similar walking support devices. More particularly, the present invention provides a retractable gripping device for use in conjunction with a walking assistance device such that a user may safely navigate on wet, icy or otherwise slippery surfaces. A corresponding method of preventing slipping of a walking support device is also provided.[0005]2. Description of the Related Art[0006]Walking assis...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a retractable gripping device for use in conjunction with a crutch such that a user may safely navigate on wet, icy or otherwise slippery surfaces.

[0014]It is an object of the present invention to provide a retractable gripping device that is adaptable for use in conjunction with existing crutches, with only minor adjustments or modifications without altering the basic design of the crutches, such that a user may safely navigate on wet, icy or otherwise slippery surfaces.

[0015]It is an object of the present invention to provide a retractable gripping device for use in conjunction with a crutch such that the retractable gripping mechanism and locking device may be controlled or activated by the user with minimal effort, as well as be easily controlled or deactivated in a similar manner. In such an embodiment, the activating mechanism is preferably positioned such that the user may control or activate it while continuing to utilize the crutches (e.g., without having to turn over the crutches).

[0016]It is an object of the present invention to provide a retractable gripping device that is adaptable for use as a replacement kit for use in conjunction with existing canes, walkers, and other walking assistance devices.

Problems solved by technology

A user of these walking assistance devices faces his or her greatest challenge when walking on wet, icy, or otherwise slippery surfaces.

However, such natural rubber tips typically provide insufficient traction on smooth wet or otherwise slippery surfaces.

Other material did not prove to be suitable replacements for natural rubber.

However, none of the known tips have adequately alleviated this slipping problem.

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