Rollable user support device

Abstract

A rollable user support device comprising a rigid frame having a plurality of first legs and a plurality of second legs, each leg having a rollable and rotatable wheel, a seat having a seat folding mechanism and / or a seat steering mechanism. The seat steering mechanism is operable to move the seat on which a user is seated between a lower rearward seat position and a higher forward seat position, and the seat folding mechanism is operable to move the seat between the higher forward seat position and a folded position, at least one device is connected to a rotation prevention mechanism associated with the first wheel. The device can constitute a bi-directionally rollable user support device operable in three modes (a) a neutral mode in which the seat is in the higher forward seat position and the first wheel is prevented from rolling and rotating; (b) a first seat mode in which the seat is in the lower rearward seat position which is rollable in a first direction, a user can be accommodated on the seat and face the first direction; and (c) a second roll mode in which the seat is in the folded position and the first wheel is prevented from rotating, enabling the device to roll in a second direction opposite the first direction with a standing user facing the second direction.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention is in the field of physical aids, in particular a device configurable for various functions, such as a sitting aid and a walking aid. BACKGROUND

[0002] To assist people with physical disabilities, there are several styles of rollable chairs and wheelchairs, including those that can become rollators (walkers). Envy

[0003] US patent 7,669,863 discloses a walker with a seat assembly that assists a user in rising from a sitting position or in sitting down from a standing position. The seat assembly is mounted in a frame and includes a gas spring that deflects the seat assembly when the user rises from the seat or attenuates the deflection of the seat when the user is sitting.

[0004] US patent 9,877,175 discloses a seating and walking wheelchair with a movable seat and a frame. The movable seat is configured to move from a sitting position to a standing position. The movable seat includes a seat back having an upper end and a lower end, and a seat bottom having a front end and a rear end. The rear end of the seat bottom is rotatable about a movable pivot.

[0005] US patent 8,973,997 discloses a chair operated by a pair of screw shaft type linear actuators extending from a frame, which can have a split seat with a drop-away front portion. One or more electric motors operate the screw shafts to raise the rear seat portion without changing its angular orientation. A connector connects the frame and the front seat portion to lower it downward from under the user's thighs, while the rear seat portion is raised to assist the user in standing.

[0006] US patent US 6,619,681 discloses a seating and walking wheelchair device that also functions as a stander and a hands-free walker. The device lifts a user from a sitting position to a standing position, allowing the user to propel the device by legs and feet. When the seat is raised, the seat swings from a generally horizontal first position to a generally vertical second position, and vice versa.

[0007] US Patent Application 2006 / 022517 discloses a mobility-assistance apparatus comprising a wheelchair having a seat and a frame and a walker connected and integrated into the wheelchair. The walker has a seat lifting device.

[0008] US Patent Application 2007 / 278761 discloses a wheelchair having a frame, a seat and a device for moving the seat between lowered and raised positions. A translation mechanism is connected to the frame and the seat and provides a forward and upward translation movement of the seat. An assistance device generates a force to move the seat from the lowered position to the raised position. The seat supports the user in a sitting position; while in the raised position, the occupant is in a fixed standing position with the occupant's major body weight supported.

[0009] US Patent Application 2005 / 236812 discloses a device for moving a wheelchair seat between lowered and raised positions by a translation mechanism that moves the seat forward and upward.

[0010] The teachings of the above publications are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. SUMMARY

[0011] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a rollable user support apparatus configured to be rollable on a ground surface, the apparatus comprising:

[0012] a rigid frame having a pair of first legs and a pair of second legs, each of the first legs having a first leg distal end and at least one first wheel attached thereto, thereby being rollable and rotatable; each of the second legs having a rear leg distal end and at least one second wheel attached thereto;

[0013] a seat operably connected to the frame and positionable in at least two of the following positions relative to the frame by a seat manipulation and / or folding mechanism: a lowered rear seat position, a raised front seat position and a folded seat position; and

[0014] at least one wheel steering mechanism, said at least one wheel steering mechanism being activatable, at least indirectly, by mechanical elements, said mechanical elements being optionally positioned at least partially within said frame by said seat steering and / or folding mechanism and consisting of at least one (optionally two) of: a roll prevention mechanism, operable to prevent rolling of the first wheels on the ground when said seat is placed in its elevated bench position in front of said seat; at least one first rotation prevention mechanism, operable to prevent rotation of the first wheels when said seat is brought to its elevated front seat position, and at least one second rotation prevention mechanism, operable to prevent rotation of the first wheels when said seat is brought to its folded position.

[0015] The above characteristics enable the device to be used as a bidirectional rollable user support device, operable in at least two of the following three modes:

[0016] a neutral mode, in which said seat is in its elevated front seat position, and the first wheels are prevented from rolling and rotating;

[0017] a first chair mode, in which said seat is in its lowered rear seat position, and the first wheels are allowed to roll and rotate, thus constituting the front wheels of a chair, enabling said device to roll in a first direction, with a user seated on said seat and facing said first direction; and

[0018] a second roll wheel mode, in which said seat is in its folded position, the first wheels are prevented from rotating, and the second wheels constitute the front wheels of a roll wheel, enabling said device to roll in a second direction, opposite to said first direction, with a standing user facing said second direction.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is thus provided a rollable user support device configured to be rollable on the ground, said device comprising:

[0020] a rigid frame, said rigid frame having a pair of first legs and a pair of second legs, each of said first legs having a first leg distal end and attached thereto at least one first wheel, thus being rollable and rotatable; each of said second legs having a rear leg distal end and attached thereto at least one second wheel, thus being rollable and rotatable;

[0021] a seat, said seat being operatively connected to said frame and being positionable in a lowered rear seat position; in an elevated front seat position and in a folded position;

[0022] a seat folding mechanism, said seat folding mechanism being operable to steer said seat between said folded position and an unfolded position, said unfolded position being said elevated front seat position, said seat being oriented in a plane transversely in said folded position, said plane thus in said lowered rear seat position;

[0023] a seat steering mechanism, said seat steering mechanism being operable to move said seat between said lower rear seat position and said higher front seat position, with a user seated on said seat;

[0024] at least one roll prevention mechanism, said at least one roll prevention mechanism being indirectly activated by said seat steering mechanism and being operable to prevent said first wheels from rolling on said ground when said seat is brought to its said higher front seat position;

[0025] at least one first rotation prevention mechanism, said at least one first rotation prevention mechanism being indirectly activatable by said seat steering mechanism and being operable to prevent rolling of said first wheels, at least when in said higher front seat position of said seat, and said device further comprising at least one second rotation prevention mechanism, said at least one second rotation prevention mechanism being activatable by said seat folding mechanism and being operable to prevent rotation of said first wheels when said seat is in said folded position;

[0026] said device is a bidirectional rollable user support device, operable in three modes:

[0027] a neutral mode, wherein in said neutral mode said seat is in said higher front position and said first wheels are prevented from rolling and rotating;

[0028] a first chair mode, wherein in said first chair mode said seat is in said lower rear position and said first wheels are allowed to roll and rotate, thereby constituting chair front wheels, enabling said device to roll in a first direction, with a user seated on said seat and facing said first direction; and

[0029] a second trolley mode, wherein in said second trolley mode said seat is in said folded position, said first wheels are prevented from rotating, and said second wheels constitute trolley front wheels, enabling said device to roll in a second direction, opposite said first direction, with a standing user facing said second direction.

[0030] According to a third aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a user support device, configured to be rollable on a ground, said device comprising:

[0031] a frame, said frame having a pair of front legs and a pair of rear legs, each front leg having a front leg distal end and at least one rollable and rotatable front wheel attached thereto, each rear leg having a rear leg distal end and at least one rear wheel attached thereto, said rear wheel being at least rollable;

[0032] a seat operatively connected to the frame and positionable in a lower rear seat position and a higher front seat position;

[0033] a seat manipulation mechanism operable to move the seat between the lower rear seat position and the higher front seat position with a user seated on the seat;

[0034] at least one roll prevention mechanism operable to prevent the front wheels from rolling on the ground when the seat is in its higher front seat position; and

[0035] at least one first rotation prevention mechanism operable to prevent rotation of the front wheels, at least after their rolling has been prevented.

[0036] According to a fourth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a user support device configured to be rollable on a ground surface, the device comprising:

[0037] a frame having a pair of front legs each having a front leg distal end with at least one front wheel attached thereto so as to be rollable and rotatable, and a pair of rear legs each having a rear leg distal end with at least one rear wheel attached thereto;

[0038] a seat operatively connected to the frame and positionable in a lower rear seat position and a higher front seat position;

[0039] a safety arrangement in the device performing the following three steps in any order: (a) positioning the seat in the higher front seat position, which can also reduce a seat length of the seat; (b) preventing the front wheels from rolling on the ground at least when the seat is in the higher front seat position; (c) preventing the front wheels from rotating at least when the front wheels are prevented from rolling; providing the safety arrangement includes performing at least any two of the above three steps while allowing a mechanism to perform the remaining third step.

[0040] In the device of this aspect, the safety arrangement can include a seat manipulation mechanism operable to move the seat with a user seated on it between the lower rear seat position and the higher front seat position, wherein the seat length of the seat in a front region thereof is shorter than the seat length in the lower rear seat position to facilitate the user standing up from the seat position. Alternatively or in addition, the safety arrangement can include one or both of: at least one roll prevention mechanism operable to prevent the front wheels from rolling on the ground, and at least one rotation prevention mechanism operable to prevent the front wheels from rotating, when the seat is in the higher front seat position.

[0041] The apparatuses of the aspects described above can be bidirectional rollable user support apparatuses having front and rear wheels that are rollable and rotatable.

[0042] The seats of the apparatuses of the aspects described above are capable of moving from a forwardly elevated seat position to a folded position in which at least a portion of the seat is oriented differently than in the forwardly elevated seat position and in a rearwardly lower seat position.

[0043] The apparatuses of the aspects described above can therefore have a seat folding mechanism that secures the seat to the frame and is operable to move the seat between a seat folded position and an unfolded position, i.e. a higher front seat position.

[0044] The apparatuses of the aspects described above can include a second rotation prevention mechanism that is indirectly activated by the seat folding mechanism and is operable to prevent rotation of the first wheels when the seat folding apparatus is in the folded position.

[0045] The apparatuses of the aspects described above can therefore be operable in three modes:

[0046] a neutral mode in which the seat is in a forwardly elevated position and the front wheels are prevented from rolling and rotating;

[0047] a first chair mode in which the seat is in a rearwardly lower position and the front wheels are allowed to roll and rotate, enabling the apparatus to roll in a first direction, while a user seated on the seat faces the first direction; and

[0048] a second roll mode in which the seat is in a folded position, the front wheels are prevented from rotating and act as rear wheels of a roll, while the rear wheels act as front wheels of the roll, enabling the apparatus to roll in a second direction opposite the first direction, while a standing user faces the second direction.

[0049] According to a fifth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a bidirectional user support apparatus, characterized by being operable and maneuverable between a first chair mode in which the apparatus is rollable in a first direction with a user seated thereon, and a second roll mode in which the apparatus is rollable in a second direction opposite the first direction with a standing user facing the second direction, the apparatus comprising:

[0050] a frame having a pair of first legs and a pair of second legs connected thereto, the first legs constituting front legs when the apparatus is in the first mode and the second legs constituting the front legs when the apparatus is in the second mode;

[0051] at least one first wheel attached to a distal end of each of the first legs and being rollable and rotatable;

[0052] at least one second wheel attached to a distal end of each of the second legs and capable of rolling and rotating;

[0053] a seat capable of being placed in a deployed position in which it can at least partially accommodate a seated user facing in the first direction and in a folded position in which at least a portion of the seat has an orientation different from that of the seat in the deployed position;

[0054] a seat folding mechanism securing the seat to the frame and operable to move the seat to the folded position when bringing the device from the first mode to the second mode and to move the seat to the deployed position when bringing the device from the second mode to the first mode; and

[0055] a rotation prevention mechanism operable to prevent rotation of the first wheels when the seat is brought to the folded position.

[0056] In the device of the above aspects, the seat length of the front region of the seat can be shorter when the seat is in the higher front position relative to when the seat is in the lower back position.

[0057] More specifically, the seat can have a main back seat portion and an auxiliary front seat portion and be operable between:

[0058] a lower back seat position in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion are adjacent to each other and aligned along a horizontal plane to provide a predetermined seat length;

[0059] a higher seat position in which the main seat portion maintains its orientation when moved from the lower back seat state and at least a substantial portion of the auxiliary seat portion is lower relative to the main seat portion and oriented transversely thereto, thereby reducing the seat length of the seat; and

[0060] a folded position in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion change their orientation relative to the lower seat state and their total projection on the horizontal plane is less than the reduced seat length of the seat in the raised state.

[0061] In the device of the above aspects, the seat steering mechanism and the seat folding mechanism can be considered as a single seat steering and folding mechanism operable to move the seat between the lower seat state and the higher seat state and between the higher seat state and the foldable seat state.

[0062] According to a sixth aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a foldable user support device configurable to be placed on the ground, comprising:

[0063] A seat having a main rear seat portion and an auxiliary front seat portion and being operable between:

[0064] a lower rear seat state in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion are disposed adjacent to each other and aligned to a lower rear seat position in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion are disposed adjacent to each other and aligned, providing a predetermined seat length along a horizontal plane;

[0065] a higher seat position in which the main seat portion maintains its orientation upon moving from a lower rear seat state and at least a substantial portion of the auxiliary seat portion is lower and transversely oriented relative to the main seat portion, thereby reducing the seat length of the seat; and

[0066] a folded position in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion change their orientation relative to the lower seat state and their total projected length on the horizontal plane is less than the reduced seat length of the seat in the higher state; and

[0067] a seat operating and folding mechanism configured for moving the seat between the lower seat state and the higher seat state and between the higher seat state and the folded state.

[0068] The apparatus of each of the above aspects can further have each of the features described below.

[0069] The main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion have a juxtaposed configuration when the seat is in the lower rear position, allowing both portions to accommodate a seated user in the lower rear position of the seat, wherein the auxiliary portion is indirectly operable by the seat operating mechanism to change its orientation to reduce the seat length of the seat, allowing only the main portion to accommodate a seated user in the higher front seat position when the seat is moved to the higher front seat position.

[0070] The main seat portion can have the same orientation in the higher and lower positions, enabling it to support a user in both positions.

[0071] The seat is in the higher front position, the auxiliary seat portion is positionable lower and transversely oriented relative to the main seat portion.

[0072] The seat actuation mechanism can include at least one piston configured to store energy when the seat is moved to the lower rear position and release its stored energy when the seat is moved to its higher front position.

[0073] The at least one roll prevention mechanism includes a roll prevention member associated with each of the first wheels and actuatable between a rollable state in which the front wheels are rollable and a roll arrest state in which the front wheels are prevented from rolling; is indirectly activated at least by the seat actuation mechanism when the seat is thus brought to the higher front seat position and is operable to bring the roll prevention trigger member into the roll arrest state.

[0074] At least one rotation prevention mechanism is operable to change the state of the first wheels from a rotatable state when the seat is in the lower rear seat position to a rotation arrest state in which the first wheels are prevented from rotating when the seat is in the higher front seat position.

[0075] At least one first rotation prevention mechanism can include a rotation arrest mechanism associated with the first wheels and actuatable between a rotatable state allowing the rotatable state of the first wheels and a rotation arrest member preventing the first wheels from rotating. At least one first rotation prevention mechanism can include a rotation prevention trigger member indirectly activated at least when the roll prevention trigger member brings the roll prevention member into the roll prevention state and the rotation prevention trigger member is operable to bring the rotation arrest member into the rotation arrest state.

[0076] The frame can be rigid, at least its legs can be optional, the entire frame can be non-foldable.

[0077] The seat actuation mechanism can be connected to the first leg of the frame.

[0078] The roll prevention mechanism and the rotation prevention mechanism can include a number of activation elements extending into the front legs, the mechanisms being connected to the seat actuation mechanism by the number of activation elements.

[0079] The lower portion includes the first leg and the second leg and a reinforcement bar connecting between the number of second legs.

[0080] The frame includes a right frame member and a left frame member, each having a frame member lower portion having a first and second leg and a frame member upper portion.

[0081] The device further comprises a pair of extendable user support arms connected to the upper portions of the frame members and being transformable between a lower arm position in which a portion of the arms extends above the frame upper portions for use when the device is in the first mode and an extended arm position for use at least when the device is in the second mode.

[0082] All mechanisms of the device can be free of electrical connections and power supply.

[0083] In the folded state of the seat, at least a substantial portion of the seat can extend along the frame on the sides of the device.

[0084] The at least one roll prevention mechanism and the at least one first rotation prevention mechanism can be simultaneously active.

[0085] The device can comprise a backrest which maintains its orientation when the seat is in the lower backrest position and in the higher front seat position, wherein the seat is placed further from the backrest in the lower backrest position.

[0086] The backrest is operatively connected to the frame for movement between a backrest placed position in which the backrest is spaced rearwardly from the seat, at least a substantial portion of which is located above a plane defined by the seat, the seat being oriented transversely to said plane when the seat is in the lower back position, and a backrest folded state in which the backrest is placed alongside the seat and extends along the seat when the seat is in the folded position.

[0087] The device can further comprise a backrest folding mechanism operable to move the backrest between an unfolded state and a folded state. The backrest folding mechanism can be operatively connected to the seat folding mechanism such that activation of the seat folding mechanism is effected upon actuation of the backrest folding mechanism.

[0088] When the frame comprises frame members having upper and lower portions as described above, the backrest can be connected to at least the upper portions of the frame members.

[0089] The backrest and the backrest folding mechanism can be such that the backrest forms a first acute angle with a plane defined by the seat when in the unfolded position, the first acute angle being the angle formed between the backrest and the plane when the seat is in the lower back position, and a second acute angle with the plane when in the folded state, the second acute angle being smaller than the first acute angle. In the folded position of the backrest, a substantial portion thereof can extend along the frame in a side view of the device.

[0090] According to a seventh aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a bidirectional user support device, which is maneuverable between a first chair mode, in which the device is rollable in a first direction with a user seated thereon, and a second rollator mode, in which the device is rollable in a second direction opposite the first direction by a standing user facing the second direction, the device comprising:

[0091] a frame having an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein a pair of first legs constitutes front legs of the device when in the first mode, and a pair of second legs constitutes the front legs of the device when in the second mode, the legs having the wheels at their distal ends, respectively, and extending downwardly from the upper portion;

[0092] a seat attached to the frame and being positionable in an unfolded position, in which it at least partially accommodates a seated user facing the first direction, and a folded position, in which at least a portion of the seat has an orientation different from the unfolded position of the seat;

[0093] a backrest operatively connected to the frame separately from the seat, so as to enable the backrest to be brought into an unfolded backrest position, in which at least a substantial portion of the backrest is located above the frame and the seat, and a folded backrest position, in which at least a substantial portion of the backrest extends along the frame in a side view of the device; and

[0094] a backrest folding mechanism operable to fold the backrest between the unfolded position, in which the device is brought into the first mode, and the folded position, in which the device is brought into the second mode; and

[0095] a seat folding mechanism attaching the seat to the frame and being indirectly activated at least by the backrest folding mechanism, and being operable to move the seat to the folded position when the backrest is placed in its folded position, and to move the seat to the unfolded position when the backrest is placed in its unfolded position.

[0096] When the backrest of the device of the sixth aspect is in the unfolded position, it can form a first angle with a plane defined by the seat, and when the backrest is in the lower backrest position, in the folded state, the backrest forms a second acute angle with said plane, the second acute angle being smaller than the first angle. When the backrest is in the folded position, at least a substantial portion thereof can extend along the frame.

[0097] In the device of the sixth aspect, the first wheels of the first and second legs can roll and rotate.

[0098] The device of this aspect can further comprise a seat manipulation mechanism operable to move the seat, on which a user is seated, between a higher front seat position and a lower rear seat position, the higher front seat position constituting the unfolded position of the seat, which can be unfolded.

[0099] The device of this aspect can further comprise at least one rolling prevention mechanism operable to prevent the first wheels from rolling on the ground when the seat is in its higher front seat position. Alternatively or additionally, the device can comprise at least one first rotation prevention mechanism operable to prevent the rotation of the first wheels when the seat is in the higher front seat position. In both cases

[0100] In the device of this aspect, the orientation of the seat in the folded position is different from the orientation of the seat in the higher front seat position and in the lower rear seat position.

[0101] In the device of this aspect, the seat folding mechanism is operable to activate the second rotation prevention mechanism to prevent the rotation of the first wheels when the seat folding device is in the folded position.

[0102] The device of this aspect can thus be operated in three modes:

[0103] a neutral mode, in which the seat is in the higher rear position, the backrest is in the unfolded position, and the front wheels are prevented from rolling and rotating;

[0104] a first chair mode, in which the seat is in the lower rear position, the backrest is in the unfolded position as in the neutral mode, and the front wheels are allowed to roll and rotate, so that the device can roll in a first direction, while a user is seated on the seat and faces the first direction; and

[0105] a second rolling mode, in which the seat and the backrest are in the folded position, the front wheels act as rear wheels of a rolling device and are prevented from rotating, while the rear wheels act as front wheels of the rolling device, so that the device can roll in a second direction opposite to the first direction, while a user is standing and faces the second direction.

[0106] In the device of this aspect, the seat length of the seat can be shorter in the front region thereof when the seat is in the higher front seat position than when the seat is in the lower rear seat position. More specifically, the seat can have a main rear seat portion and an auxiliary front seat portion and can be operable between:

[0107] a lower rear seat position, in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion are adjacent to each other and aligned along a horizontal plane to provide a predetermined seat length;

[0108] a higher seating position, in which the main seat portion maintains its orientation when moved from the lower rearward seating position, and in which at least a substantial part of the auxiliary seat portion is lower and oriented transversely to the main seat portion, thereby reducing the seat length of the seat; and

[0109] a folded position, in which the main seat portion and the auxiliary seat portion change their orientation relative to the lower seating position, and in which their total projection on a horizontal plane is less than the reduced seat length of the seat in the elevated position.

[0110] In the device of this aspect, the seat steering mechanism and the seat folding mechanism can be considered as a single seat steering and folding mechanism operable to move the seat between the lower seating position and the higher seating position, and between the higher seating position and the foldable seating position.

[0111] As mentioned above, in each of the above aspects, the mechanisms can be connected to each other, either individually or at least predominantly, by mechanical connections, so that each mechanism is mechanically activated by, or is mechanically activated by, or is at least indirectly simultaneously mechanically activated by, at least one other mechanism of the device, thereby rendering the device easy to use. Namely, the user does not need to coordinate / control the operation of the mechanisms in different operating modes of the device. In particular, the backrest folding mechanism can be operable to mechanically activate the seat folding mechanism in order to bring the seat from its higher forward seating position to its folded position, or vice versa, for use of the device in the trolley mode. One of these two mechanisms is activated first to bring the device into the folded position, either manually, e.g. by the user pulling the backrest or pushing the seat, or using a control button. The backrest folding mechanism or the seat folding mechanism, being operable, mechanically activates the corresponding anti-rotation mechanism to prevent rotation of the first / front leg of the device when in the folded position, facilitating its use as a trolley. The seat steering mechanism, which the user activates by lifting himself with the arms of the device or by pressing a control button, is operable to mechanically activate the rolling prevention mechanism and the corresponding anti-rotation mechanism to brake / lock the first / front wheel when the seat is in the higher forward seating position, thereby providing the user with safe support of the device when sitting high or standing.

[0112] As mentioned above, in each of the above aspects, at least a part of the mechanical elements connecting the different mechanisms, such as the elements involved in the rolling prevention and rotation prevention, can be configured within the frame.

[0113] In the above aspects, each first wheel of the device, i.e. the wheels which can operate as front wheels when the device is in the neutral or first chair mode, can be associated with a caster assembly comprising a swivel caster support wheel and are operable to allow the swivel of the wheel; the assembly comprises at least one swivel prevention mechanism configured to prevent the swivel of the wheel and at least one swivel prevention mechanism different from the swivel prevention mechanism operable to prevent the swivel of the wheel.

[0114] In the above caster assembly, the at least one swivel prevention mechanism can be a first swivel prevention mechanism and the assembly can further comprise at least one second swivel prevention mechanism, which is independently operable from the first swivel prevention mechanism.

[0115] Each of the first and second swivel prevention mechanisms can be operable to lock the caster in the rolling direction after a portion of the swivel thereof to a first and second predetermined angle, respectively, the first and second angles being different.

[0116] Accordingly, in accordance with a further aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a caster assembly for securing a wheel assembly comprised of a swivel caster configured to connect a wheel and operable to allow the swivel of the wheel; the assembly comprises at least one swivel prevention mechanism configured to prevent the swivel of the wheel and at least one swivel prevention mechanism different from the swivel prevention mechanism operable to prevent the swivel of the wheel.

[0117] The at least one swivel prevention mechanism can be a first swivel prevention mechanism and the assembly can further comprise at least one second swivel prevention mechanism, which is independently operable from the first swivel prevention mechanism.

[0118] Each of the first and second swivel prevention mechanisms can be operable to lock the caster in the rolling direction after a portion of the swivel thereof to a first and second predetermined angle, respectively, the first and second angles being different.

[0119] The at least one swivel prevention mechanism and the at least one first swivel prevention mechanism can be simultaneously operable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0120] For a better understanding of the subject matter which is disclosed herein, and to show more clearly how it can be carried into practice, a number of embodiments will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0121] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a rollable user support device according to several exemplary embodiments of the present invention, in a lower seating position.

[0122] Figure 2 is a view as Figure 1 shown, wherein the device is in an upper seating position.

[0123] Figure 3 is a view as shown in Figure 2 wherein the device comprises a backrest and an armrest.

[0124] Figure 4 is a side view of Figure 3 .

[0125] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the device in a roller mode.

[0126] Figure 6 is a side view of Figure 5 .

[0127] Figures 7-9 is a side / interior view of an embodiment of the device in three modes thereof; the three modes being a low chair mode, a high chair mode, and a roller mode.

[0128] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the device showing an intermediate folded position.

[0129] Figure 11 is a side view of Figure 10 .

[0130] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the device in a roller mode as shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 .

[0131] Figures 13-15 is a side / interior view of an embodiment of the device in three modes thereof; the three modes being a low chair mode, a high chair mode, and a roller mode.

[0132] Figure 16A and Figure 16B are perspective and side views of an embodiment of a caster of the device in an enabled rolling and an enabled rotation state, respectively.

[0133] Figure 17A and Figure 17B are perspective and side views of Figure 18A and Figure 18B in an enabled rolling and a prevented rotation state, respectively, wherein the caster is configured to align with a rolling direction of the device.

[0134] Figure 18A and Figure 18B are perspective and side views of Figure 18A and Figure 18B in a rolling prevention and a prevented rotation prevention state, respectively.

[0135] Figures 19-21 is a side / interior view showing a number of folding mechanisms of an embodiment of the device.

[0136] The following detailed description of several embodiments of the application refers to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates the same or similar components. The sizes of the components shown in the figures are chosen for convenience or clarity rather than accuracy. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0137] Illustrative embodiments of the application are described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, not all features of an actual implementation are described.

[0138] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A rollable user support device is shown, which can be designed to support a user in a ("lower") chair seating position Figure 1 or an elevated sitting position Figure 2 . The lower chair seating position can be used in a variety of implementations, including as a rollable and rotatable chair, including for office chairs and for chairs that facilitate ease of movement, for use in compact locations such as bathrooms, which can be useful for positioning a disabled or mobility-challenged person for access to a toilet or car seat. The elevated sitting position helps to provide support for a user who wishes to be in a relatively higher position, such as when conversing with a standing person, or when facing a kitchen or bathroom sink or adjacent person. The elevated position also helps to assist the user in standing.

[0139] Alternatively or additionally, the rollable user support device can be designed to allow for specific control of the wheels, front wheels and / or rear wheels. In particular, the user support device can be configured to allow for a combination of rolling and / or rotating options, particularly through one or more mechanisms that control the wheels, in certain designs in combination with a specific seating position.

[0140] The rollable user support device includes a rigid frame 20 comprising left and right frame members fixedly connected to each other (e.g., by frame reinforcing bars), having an upper portion and a lower portion, the lower portion consisting of front legs 22 and rear legs 24. Each front leg has a distal end 26, wherein at least one front wheel 28 is disposed at these distal ends. Each rear leg 24 has a distal end 26, wherein at least one rear wheel 32 is disposed at these distal ends. These wheels are described as single wheels; however, they may consist of a set of wheels, such as a pair of wheels. At least the front wheels 28 may be configured to be both rollable and rotatable, as will be described in further detail below, referring to Figures 18-21. For example, the front legs 22 and rear legs 24 may include swivel casters 34 to provide both rolling and swivel functionality, as is well known; however, at least one particular caster design will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 18-21.

[0141] The frame 20 has a seat 36 operably connected thereto. The seat 36 can be a single seat or a multi-part seat, such as the two-part seat illustrated. The seat 36 can be configured to be positioned in a lower rear seat position. Figure 1 ) and a higher front seat position ( Figure 2 In this design, the device includes a seat operating mechanism 100 configured to adjust the seat between a lower rear seat position and a higher front seat position. The seat operating mechanism 100 can be electrically operated; however, in certain designs, it can be operated entirely mechanically. The initial position of the device (specifically seat 36) is a higher seat position, ready for the device to be seated in a lower seat position (chair mode) and ready to fold into a folded state (roller mode). The initial position can be lowered to the lower seat position via the seat operating mechanism 100, and once the user is seated, it can be actuated by the user's weight / force.

[0142] In the case of a two-part seat 36, the seat includes a rear seat portion 38 (which may be alternately referred to as the main seat portion 38 in this specification and claims) for supporting the user's hips; and a forward seat portion 40 (which may be alternately referred to as the auxiliary seat portion 40 in this specification and claims) designed to provide support for the user's thighs in a lower sitting position. In this two-part configuration, in the higher position ( Figure 2 The forward-facing seat section 40 is designed to fold downwards. As can be seen, the rear seat section 38 maintains its orientation relative to the ground while moving from its lower position to its higher position (and vice versa) – typically horizontal. In a special design, the seat operating mechanism 100 is configured to fold down the two sections of the seat, as described below, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 7-9 .

[0143] The device can also include at least one rotation prevention mechanism 300 configured to allow the front wheels 28 to be unable to rotate (in some designs independently, in some designs in conjunction with the position of the seat 36, particularly when the seat is in the raised position, as described below). The rotation prevention mechanism 300 can be comprised of known methods, or can use a specific design, as described below, see Figs. 16-18.

[0144] The device can also include at least one roll prevention mechanism 200 configured to prevent the front wheels 28 from rolling when the seat is in the raised position. Such a configuration can be advantageous in providing a stable base for a user in a higher position, for example when adjacent to a sink in a kitchen / bathroom or the like. The roll prevention mechanism 200 can be comprised of known methods, or can use a specific design that is entirely mechanical, as described below, see Figs. 16-18.

[0145] In some designs, the rollable user support device is configured to include the seat manipulation mechanism 100 and the rotation prevention mechanism 300. In some designs, the rollable user support device is configured to include the seat manipulation mechanism 100 and the roll prevention mechanism 200. In some designs, the rollable user support device is configured to include the rotation prevention mechanism 300 and the roll prevention mechanism 200. In some designs, the rollable user support device is configured to include the seat manipulation mechanism 100; the rotation prevention mechanism 300; and the roll prevention mechanism 200.

[0146] Any or all three of the above mechanisms can be operated electrically. However, in certain specific designs, at least one of the three mechanisms described above is comprised entirely of mechanical means; in certain specific designs, at least two of the three mechanisms described above are comprised entirely of mechanical means; in certain specific designs, all three of the mechanisms described above are comprised entirely of mechanical means.

[0147] In one particular example, the seat manipulation mechanism 100 is operable by a user, while the roll prevention mechanism 200 and the anti-rotation mechanism 300 are directly or indirectly operable by the seat manipulation mechanism 100, such that a change in seat position triggers a change in the state of the front wheels 28. Thus, when the device is in an initial state ("high chair", neutral / ready-to-use mode), with the seat 36 in an elevated forward position, at least the front wheels 28 are non-rollable and non-rotatable until the seat is lowered to a lowered position (as a normal rollable seat), in which the front wheels are rollable and rotatable (released from their roll and rotation prevention state). When the user (e.g. by moving the center of gravity forward and up) causes the seat manipulation mechanism 100 to start lifting the seat 36, the seat manipulation mechanism at least indirectly causes the roll prevention mechanism 200 and the anti-rotation mechanism 300 to prevent the device from rolling and rotating. The seat manipulation mechanism 100 can be controlled by the user's center of gravity and / or a control system.

[0148] As Figure 2 and 7 As shown in Fig. 9, the seat manipulation mechanism 100 includes a pair of seat portion accessory brackets 102 connected between the rear seat portion 38 and the forward seat portion 40. The seat portion accessory brackets 102 are rotatably attached at a forward position relative to the rear seat portion 38. The seat manipulation mechanism 100 also includes a pair of rotation prevention trigger members (104) in the form of a pair of forward seating portion-to-frame connection brackets 104 rotatably attached at their upper ends to the front or sides of the forward seat portion 40, e.g. to the pivot points of the seat portion accessory brackets 102, respectively. At their lower ends, the brackets 104 are rotatably attached to the frame 20.

[0149] The seat manipulation mechanism 100 also includes a pair of frame-to-rear seating linkages 106 rotatably connecting the frame 20 to the rear seat portion 38 at a position rearward of the seat portion accessory brackets 102. The linkages 106 can include a set of pivotally connected linkage segments (three in number are shown), including a lower linkage portion 110; an intermediate linkage 112; and an upper linkage 114, wherein the intermediate linkage is pivotally connected at its respective ends to the lower and upper linkages.

[0150] The seat portion accessory brackets 102 can be selected to be of a suitable length, in combination with the forward seating portion-to-frame connection brackets 104 and the frame-to-rear seating linkages 106, to ensure that the rear seat portion 38 remains in a generally horizontal orientation when the seat 36 is being manipulated, as described above, from a rearward lowered position to a forward elevated position (and vice versa).

[0151] The seat steering mechanism 100 can be driven manually, for example by a crank or similar device; or can be driven mechanically, for example using a spring.

[0152] However, in some special designs, the seat steering mechanism 100 includes a pneumatic seat movement assist mechanism, which includes at least one piston 108 Figure 3 ), typically a pair of pistons 108. The pistons 108 can store energy in a retracted state, which can be used to lift the seat 36, thereby assisting the user in rising from the seat or reaching their seat position. Conversely, relatively elongate pistons 108 can also be useful in assisting the user to sit in a lower position, as the pistons can be configured to compress slowly, thereby alleviating the user's need to support their body weight with their legs and / or arms when entering a lower (conventional) sitting position.

[0153] The pistons 108 are rotatably attached at a lower end of the frame 20 and at an upper end of the side or bottom of the rear seat portion 38, typically at the relatively rearward portion of the rear seat portion.

[0154] The above-described arrangement, by enabling the front wheels of the chair to function as the rear wheels in the caster mode, enables the chair to be converted from a chair to a caster / walker. This is functionally operatively linked to the foldability of the seat. In particular, the arrangement can include a seat folding mechanism operable to cause the seat, in particular the rear seat portion thereof, to change from a higher state to a folded state when the front wheels are stopped, in which the seat, or at least the rear seat portion thereof, is folded in a position substantially parallel to the upper portion of the frame. The seat folding mechanism can be at least indirectly linked to the wheel steering mechanism to prevent the caster wheels, now acting as rear wheels, from rotating when the seat is brought into the folded state. In particular, the rear wheels of the caster are aligned with the frame when the caster is rolling. Figure 1 Figure 2 The above-described arrangement, by enabling the front wheels of the chair to function as the rear wheels in the caster mode, enables the chair to be converted from a chair to a caster / walker. This is functionally operatively linked to the foldability of the seat. In particular, the arrangement can include a seat folding mechanism operable to cause the seat, in particular the rear seat portion thereof, to change from a higher state to a folded state when the front wheels are stopped, in which the seat, or at least the rear seat portion thereof, is folded in a position substantially parallel to the upper portion of the frame. The seat folding mechanism can be at least indirectly linked to the wheel steering mechanism to prevent the caster wheels, now acting as rear wheels, from rotating when the seat is brought into the folded state. In particular, the rear wheels of the caster are aligned with the frame when the caster is rolling.

[0155] Figures 3-6 A bidirectional rollable user support arrangement is shown, which is adjustable between a raised seat position (configured to face a user in a first direction 42) (see Figure 2 ) and a caster / walker mode (configured to enable the user to walk upright and be supported, while facing a second direction 44 opposite the first direction). In other words, the bidirectional user support arrangement is operable and steerable in a first mode (chair) and a second mode (caster / walker). The first mode (chair) allows the user to sit in their seat, or at a higher position, Figure 2 in which the wheels are fixed; or at a lower sitting position, Figure 1 ​wherein the bidirectionally rollable user support device is rollable on the ground in a first direction 42 by a user sitting thereon. In the second mode (rollator / walker), the bidirectionally rollable user support device is rollable on the ground in a second direction 44 by a user standing thereon.

[0156] The bidirectionally rollable user support device is configured to be operable and maneuverable between a first mode (chair) in which the device is rollable on the ground in a first direction 42 by a user sitting thereon, and a second mode (rollator / walker) in which the device is rollable on the ground in a second direction 44 by a user standing thereon, said second direction 44 being opposite to the first direction.

[0157] The bidirectionally rollable user support device comprises the components described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , namely: a frame 20; front legs 22; rear legs 24; swivel casters 34 having a rollable and rotatable front wheel 28 and a rollable rear wheel 32 (which is also rotatable in this case); and a seat 36.

[0158] Since the device is bidirectional, the "front wheel" will be referred to as "first wheel" 28a; the "rear wheel" will be referred to as "second wheel" 32a.

[0159] When the bidirectionally rollable user support device is in the first mode (chair or high chair; Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), the "first wheel" 28a functions as a "front wheel" and is configured to roll and rotate with the user sitting and facing in the first direction 42.

[0160] When the bidirectionally rollable user support device is in the second mode (rollator / walker; Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), now the "second wheel" 32a functions as a "front wheel" and is configured to roll and rotate with the user standing and facing in the second direction 44.

[0161] While the frame 20 can be designed to provide support to the user when standing (e.g. a relatively short user using a rollator; Figure 12 or where the frame is relatively tall), for rollator / walker configuration convenience, the bidirectionally rollable user support device typically comprises a pair of upwardly extending user support arms 46 having handles 48. In one particular design, the frame 20 comprises a pair of elongated arm receiving grooves 50 Figure 6 configured to receive the arms 46 and a mechanism allowing extension of the arms and locking of the arms in selected arm extension positions. Such arm locking mechanisms are well known and will not be described here.

[0162] The bidirectional rollable user support device comprises a seat steering and folding mechanism 400 operatively attaching the seat 36 to the frame 20. The mechanism 400 is configured to move the seat 36 between a first (unfolded) state ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ) and a second (folded) state ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), the first (unfolded) state being the first mode of the device when the seat is in the raised position, the second (folded) state being the second mode of the device (rollator / walker).

[0163] The seat steering and folding mechanism 400 can be composed in a known manner, including electrically or by a specific fully mechanical design. In such a mechanical design (where there is no backrest) can be composed by the same seat steering mechanism 100. To complete the folding, the user can press the forward seat portion 40 ( Figure 8 ) backwards in the direction of the arrow 402, so the rearward seat portion 38 will fold like a book, with both the forward ( Figure 9 ) and rearward seat portions moving to a non-horizontal orientation.

[0164] The bidirectional rollable user support device further comprises a wheel steering mechanism 300 configured to rotate at least the first wheel 28a when the device is in the initial mode ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ) and to rotate the second wheel 32a while preventing the rotation of the first wheel when the device is in the rollator / walker mode ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The wheel steering mechanism 300 can be composed in a known manner, including electrically or by a specific fully mechanical design, as described below, with reference to Figures 21-2 3. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The device shown has a backrest 52 and armrests 54, which can or can not be part of the device, can or can not be folded with the seat folding.

[0165] Figures 7-13 A bidirectional rollable user support device is shown, where the backrest 52 is foldable with the seat folding. The bidirectional rollable user support device is configured to operate and steerable between a first mode (chair), in which the device is configured to accommodate a seated user facing in a first direction, and a second mode (rollator), in which the device is rollable in a second direction opposite the first direction and configured to support a standing user; in particular to control the position of the seat 36 and backrest 52 relative to the frame 20. Such positioning of the seat and backrest can be advantageous for the user, for example, but not limited to any practical implementation, providing a better view and / or a more compact folding, which can be useful for storage and / or transportation of the device.

[0166] The bidirectionally rollable user support device comprises a frame 20 having front legs 22 and rear legs 24 connected thereto. At least one first wheel 28a is attached to the distal end 26 of each front leg 22, wherein the at least one first wheel is configured to roll and optionally rotate. At least one second wheel 32a is attached to the distal end 26 of each rear leg 24, wherein the second wheel is configured to roll and rotate. A seat 36 is operably attached to the frame 20. A backrest 52 is operably connected to the frame 20, either directly (i.e. the frame can be suitably configured) or by means of an armrest 54 or other means.

[0167] The bidirectionally rollable seat folding user support device further comprises a seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 configured to fold and unfold the seat 36 and the backrest 52 and to operably attach the seat 36 and the backrest 52 to the frame 20. The backrest 52 is configured to be at least indirectly connected to the seat and backrest folding mechanism 600, which is operable to move the backrest 52 between a first (unfolded, user backrest support) position in a first mode (chair) of the device, wherein the backrest is at least partially positioned above the frame 20 (see Figure 7 and 8 ) and a second (folded) position in a second mode (walker) of the device, wherein at least a portion of the frame 20 is above the backrest (see Figure 9 ).

[0168] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 is shown in an intermediate state between the elevated seat position and its folded position of the bidirectionally rollable seat folding user support device. It can be observed that with the transition of the seat 36, the backrest 52 is lowered, also moved to a position substantially parallel to the seat and to the upper portion of the frame 20, as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 .

[0169] The seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 can be operated in an electrically powered manner; however, in a particular design, the mechanism 600 is completely mechanical. In such a mechanical design, the seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 can comprise a seat steering mechanism 100 and a component configured to arrange the backrest position 52.

[0170] Referring to Figures 19-21 , which illustrates the seat and backrest folding mechanism 600, comprising the seat steering mechanism 100, wherein the seat steering mechanism 100 is part of the mechanism 600.

[0171] Figure 19 illustrates the initial state of the seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 before folding, with the seat 36 in its elevated position and the backrest 52 in the user backrest support position. The backrest 52 is rotationally connected to the armrest 54, which is rotationally connected to the frame 20. In this state, the seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 is in theFigure 20 In the middle, seat 36 and backrest 52 are in the early stages of folding and conversion. Figure 21 In the middle, the seat 36 and backrest 52 are fully folded and are placed side by side in a substantially parallel manner (at a 20-degree angle in some designs), and are also substantially parallel (at a 20-degree angle in some designs) to the upward extension 21 of the upper part of the frame 20. Figures 7-9 A similar folding position is illustrated. In designs without a backrest 52 or armrests 54, the folding position of the device is as follows: Figure 12 As shown.

[0172] The seat and backrest folding mechanism 600 includes multiple linkages, such as three linkages, including an upper linkage 602 rotatably connected at its upper end to the frame 20 and fixedly connected to the armrest 54. An intermediate linkage 604 rotatably connects at its upper end to the lower end of the upper linkage 602. The upper end of a lower linkage 606 is rotatably connected to the lower end of the intermediate linkage 604, and its lower end is connected to a connecting bracket 104 of the seat operating mechanism 100. The intermediate linkage 604 has an elongated slot 608 that receives a pivot pin 610, which is fixed to an upwardly extending portion 21 of the frame 20.

[0173] The connecting bracket 104 has a folding mechanism pin 612 ( Figure 19 The pin 612 is configured to slide along the upper edge of the lower link portion 110 between the bend or curve of the lower link portion 110 and the pin receiving groove 614 at the upper end of the lower link portion 110. In the elevated seat position, the pin 612 is located near the bend / curve of the lower link portion 110, and in the folded state (roller) of the device, the pin 612 is positioned in the groove 614.

[0174] For the folding mechanism, namely the folding seat 36 and backrest 52 (and armrests 54), the user pulls the backrest upwards in the normal direction 601 ( Figure 19 Therefore, the upper link 602 moves clockwise 603, causing the upper end of the middle link 604 to move in a direction similar to 601, thereby rotating clockwise about the rotating pin 610. Consequently, the lower end of the middle link 604 moves in the opposite direction (to the left in the figure), thereby pulling the lower link 606. Since the lower link 606 is connected to the connecting bracket 104, which is rotatably connected to the frame 20 at its lower end, the bracket 104 turns towards the backrest 52. When in the fully folded state, the pin 612 is received in the groove 614, thereby reversibly securing the folded state, and the device is ready for use as a roller.

[0175] Figures 13-15A collapsible user support device is shown comprising a frame 20; a front leg 22; a rear leg 24; and a seat 36 operatively connected to the frame. The seat 36 has a rear seat portion 38 and a front seat portion 40 and is configured to be maneuverable between three states: (a) a lower seat state ( Figure 13 ), in which the rear seat portion 38 and the front seat portion 40 are substantially aligned; (b) a raised seat state ( Figure 14 ), in which the rear seat portion 38 and the front seat portion 40 are angled at a first angle 56 relative to each other; and (c) a collapsed state ( Figure 15 ), in which the rear seat portion 38 and the front seat portion 40 are angled at a second angle 58 relative to each other, the second angle 58 being less than the first angle 56.

[0176] The collapsible user support device further comprises a seat collapsing mechanism 700 configured to move the seat 36 between the lower seat state ( Figure 13 ) and the raised seat state ( Figure 14 ) and also between the raised seat state and the collapsed seat state ( Figure 15 ).

[0177] Figures 16-18 show a caster assembly comprising a swivel caster 34 having a caster axle 62, wherein the caster assembly is configured to allow the wheel to swivel. The caster assembly comprises a swivel and roll control mechanism 800 configured to allow the wheel 28 to roll and prevent it from swiveling. In a particular design, the swivel control mechanism 800 is configured to prevent both the rolling and swiveling of the wheel 28.

[0178] The swivel control mechanism 800 can be constructed from an electrically controlled mechanism; however, in a particular design, it is a fully mechanical mechanism, as shown in Figures 16A-16B , Figures 17a-17b; and Figures 18a-18b. The swivel and roll control mechanism 800 comprises a roll prevention mechanism 200 and a swivel prevention mechanism 300. Further, the fully mechanical swivel control mechanism 300 can be comprised of a mechanism configured to immediately prevent the wheel from swiveling, such as by a clamp or other such means.

[0179] The roll prevention mechanism 200 is integrated with and / or associated with the swivel caster 34 and the caster axle 62. The caster axle 62 has a longitudinal tunnel 202 therethrough and is configured to receive a roll stop bar 204, which can appear to be a wooden dowel with pegs on either end. At its lower end, the roll stop bar 204 is attached to the proximal end of a roll stop member 206 in the form of a roll stop bar 206. At its upper end, the roll stop bar 204 is connected to a roll stop actuation mechanism 208.

[0180] An example of a roll brake lever 206 is a seesaw lever that is pivotally attached to the swivel caster 34, for example at about the midpoint of the lever, and has a brake pad 210 at the free end of the lever 206. At its upper end, the roll brake actuator 208 is attached to one end of a roll brake actuation cable 212 (the right end of the cable 212 in the drawings). The lower portion of the roll brake actuator 208 is pivotally attached to the frame 20.

[0181] The roll prevention mechanism 200 also includes a roll brake spring 214 (described below) between the roll brake actuator 208 and a swivel pin insertion lever 310 that is designed to actuate a mechanism that limits wheel rotation, as described below. The cable 212 can pass through (coil around) the spring 214.

[0182] In Figure 16B and 17B , the roll brake spring 214 urges the roll brake actuator 208 to rotate downward (clockwise in the drawings), thereby lowering the roll brake lever 204. As a result, the roll brake lever 206 swings (counterclockwise in the drawings) to create a gap between the brake pad 210 and the wheel 28. As a result, the wheel 28 can roll.

[0183] Conversely, when the cable 212 pulls the swivel roll brake actuator 208 to rotate the roll brake actuator (counterclockwise in the drawings) and raise the top of the roll brake actuator (the spring 214 is compressed), the wheel 28 is prevented from rolling. This causes the roll brake lever 204 to move upward, and as a result, the brake lever 206 swings (clockwise in the drawings) to force the brake pad 210 downward to prevent the wheel 28 from rolling.

[0184] The cable 212 is attached at its distal end (left end in the drawings) to a roll prevention trigger member 218 (in the form of a roll prevention actuation member 218) that is fixed at a predetermined angle relative to the link portion 110 of the seat actuation mechanism 100.

[0185] Referring to Figures 7-9 The relationship between the height of the seat 36 and the rolling of the wheel 28 will now be described. When the seat 36 (particularly the seat rear portion 38) is moved from its lower rear position Figure 7 to its higher front position Figure 8 , the roll prevention mechanism 200 is activated and the wheel 28 is prevented from rolling.

[0186] Moving to the higher seat position, i.e. when the user rises from a fully seated position to a semi-seated position, the link 106 moves from the position in Figure 7 to the position in Figure 8the position of the seat 36. This movement rotates the link portion 110 clockwise and pulls the cable 212, preventing the rolling of the wheel 28 Figure 18B When moving from the higher seat position to the lower seat position, the link portion 110 moves partially counterclockwise, thus allowing the rolling of the wheel 28 Figure 18B and 19 B).

[0187] Referring to Figs. 16-18, the rotation prevention mechanism 300 will now be described. In a particular design, the rotation prevention mechanism 300 can be configured to provide two levels of rotation prevention, a first level of rotation prevention provided by a first rotation prevention mechanism 300a in which the caster wheel 34 can only rotate a relatively limited amount, for example up to 30 degrees, and then be blocked, and a second level of rotation prevention provided by a second rotation prevention mechanism 300b in which the caster wheel can be rotated to align with the rolling direction and then be prevented from further rotation. Limited rotation can be useful for safety purposes, as it limits the movement of the front end of the device when the seat 36 is raised, so that the device stably supports the user.

[0188] The rotation prevention mechanism 300a will first be described, in which the caster wheel shaft 62 has a plurality, for example 12, rotation limiting grooves 302 equally spaced around the shaft. For this purpose, the caster wheel shaft 62 can include a larger diameter portion 304 in which the rotation limiting grooves 302 are disposed in a substantially horizontal plane. The rotation limiting grooves 302 are dimensioned to receive a rotation prevention member 306 in the form of a rotation limiting pin 306, the distal end of which is adapted to the grooves. The rotation limiting pin 306 is slidably secured by a pin holder 308 in the same plane as the grooves 302.

[0189] At its proximal end, the rotation limiting pin 306 interfaces with a lower end of a rotation limiting pin insertion lever 310 so that the insertion lever can push the limiting pin into any one of the grooves 302 when aligned therewith. The rotation pin insertion lever 310 is pivotally connected to the pin holder 308 in a seesaw fashion. The upper end of the rotation pin insertion lever 310 interfaces with the caster wheel brake spring 214.

[0190] As mentioned above, when the seat 36 is raised, the cable 212 is pulled up. In addition to driving the roll prevention mechanism 200, pulling in the cable 212 also drives the limited rotation assembly. The cable 212 pulls up the roll brake actuator 208, which compresses the spring 214 to force the rotation pin to insert into the upper end of the lever 310 outward (left in the figures). The rotation pin inserted into the lever 310 thus rotates (counterclockwise in the figures), causing the rotation limit pin 306 to enter the rotation limit groove 302. If the swivel caster 34 is rotated to 30 degrees, one of the rotation limit notches will align with the rotation limit pin 306, and the pin will enter the aligned notch. Thus, rotation will be prevented beyond a limit, for example, 30 degrees in the exemplary design, where the caster axle 62 has 12 equally spaced grooves 302. Thus, the user will have a stable elevated seat position.

[0191] In this context, the term "swivel prevention" and its derivatives, as used in the specification and claims, as well as other similar terms, will be understood to mean swivel arresting after a predetermined swivel limit (spinning of the wheel 28). This predetermined swivel limit is a function of the number of grooves 302.

[0192] A second swivel prevention mechanism 300b will now be described, in which the swivel caster 34 can be rotated up to alignment with the direction of rolling by the second swivel prevention mechanism 300b. Here, the swivel prevention mechanism 300 includes a swivel prevention cable 350 connected to the upper end of a swivel alignment lever 352. The swivel alignment lever 352 is pivotally connected to the pin seat 308, for example, at the same pivot point as the lever 310. The lower end of the swivel alignment lever 352 interfaces with a swivel alignment and prevention pin 354, which is generally horizontal. The swivel alignment and prevention pin 354 is configured in the same plane as a single pin receiving groove 356, which is configured in the larger diameter portion 304. The single pin receiving groove 356 is located in the portion 304 so that when aligned with the swivel alignment and prevention pin 354, the wheel 28 trails the axle 62. Thus, in the rolling configuration, the wheel 28 rolls in parallel (aligned) with the forward motion of the device and is prevented from swiveling through a 180 degree range of wheel rotation.

[0193] In this context, the term "swivel prevention" and its derivatives, used in other terms or similar terms, will be understood in the present description and claims as swivel arresting after a predetermined swivel limit (of the wheel 28) has been reached. This predetermined swivel limit is no more than 180 degrees, particularly before the caster 34 of the first wheel 28a is aligned with the frame 20.

[0194] In summary, Figure 16A and 16B The swivel and roll control mechanism 800 is illustrated in the case of swivel and roll activation, i.e. neither the swivel prevention mechanism 300 nor the roll prevention mechanism 200 is activated. Figure 17A and 17B The swivel and roll control mechanism 800 is illustrated in the case of roll only (swivel arresting / locking), i.e. when the swivel prevention mechanism 300 is activated. Figure 18A and 18B The swivel and roll control mechanism 800 is illustrated in the case of locking / arresting (swivel and roll arresting / locking), i.e. when both the swivel prevention mechanism 300 and the roll prevention mechanism 200 are activated.

[0195] The bidirectional rollable user support device with all the mechanisms described above will now be described with reference to the above figures.

[0196] In the "all-inclusive" design of this bidirectional rollable device, there are:

[0197] Three possible seat states: (a) rear lower seat (chair); (b) front high chair (high chair); and (c) folded seat and backrest 52 (trolley); these states are controlled by the mechanism 600 and the mechanism 100; and

[0198] Three possible front wheel states: (a) roll and full swivel (when the seat 36 is in the lower, reclined position); (b) full stop of the front wheel rotation after the first wheel 28a has swiveled to a predetermined extent (no roll and no swivel; in the raised seat state); and (c) when the first wheel 28a is aligned with the frame 20, when the first wheel initially rolls in the second direction, i.e. the first wheel swivels no more than 180 degrees, until the first wheel is prevented from swiveling; the first three wheel states are controlled by the mechanism 200 and the mechanism 300.

[0199] Movement between the three possible seat states operatively affects the three possible first wheel states, i.e. (a) the step of moving the seat 36 from its lower rearward position to its higher forward position drives the mechanism 100, causing the first wheel state to change from a rollable and rotatable state to a rotation-prevention state (and vice versa when the seat is moved from the higher forward position to the lower rearward position); (b) the step of moving the backrest 52 from its user backrest position to its folded position (tumbler) drives the mechanism 600, causing the first wheels 28 to change from an unrollable and unrotatable state to an unrollable and rotatable state, the first wheels acting as rear wheels. Conversely, moving the backrest 52 from its folded position (tumbler) to its non-folded rearward support state causes the first wheels 28 to revert to their function as front wheels, which are in a rotation-prevention state.

[0200] In particular, there is provided a rollable user support device, said device comprising all the mechanisms described above, with reference to the above figures.

[0201] In particular, the rollable user support device is configured to be rollable on the ground and comprises a rigid frame 20 having a pair of first legs 22 and a pair of second legs 24 (as described above). Each first leg 22 has a first leg distal end 26, on which at least one first wheel 28a is attached, and these wheels are rollable and rotatable (as described above). Each second leg 24 has a rear leg distal end 26, on which at least one second wheel 32a is attached, and these wheels are rollable and rotatable (as described above).

[0202] The rollable user support device comprises a seat 36 (as described above), operatively attached to the frame 20 and positionable in three positions: a lower rearward seat position; a forwardly raised seat position; and a folded position. A seat folding mechanism (as described above with reference to the mechanism 600) is operable to manipulate the seat 36 (in the forward raised seat position) between a folded position and an unfolded position. A seat manipulation mechanism 100 (as described above) is operable to move the seat 36, on which a user is seated, between the lower rearward seat position and the higher forward seat position.

[0203] The at least one roll prevention mechanism 200 (as described above) is activatable, at least indirectly, by the seat manipulation mechanism 100 and is operable to prevent the first wheel 28a from rolling on the ground when the seat 36 is raised to the forward elevated seat position. The at least one first rotation prevention mechanism 300a (as described above) is activatable, at least indirectly, by the seat manipulation mechanism 100 and is operable to prevent rotation of the first wheel 28a, at least after the seat's forward elevated position is raised and the first wheel's rolling is prevented. The at least one second rotation prevention mechanism 300b (as described above) is drivable by the seat manipulation mechanism 100 in the mechanism 600 and is operable to prevent rotation of the first wheel 28a when the seat 36 is brought to the folded position.

[0204] The rollable user support device is a bidirectional rollable user support device, operable in three modes:

[0205] (a) a neutral mode, in which the seat 36 is in a forward elevated position, the first wheel 28a is prevented from rolling and rotating;

[0206] (b) a first mode (chair mode), in which the seat 36 is in a downward rearward position, the first wheel 28a is allowed to roll and rotate (thus constituting a chair front wheel 28), enabling the device to roll in a first direction 42, with the user accommodated in the seat 36 facing the first direction; and

[0207] (c) a second mode (roller mode), in which the seat 36 is in a folded position, the first wheel 28a is prevented from rotating, and the second wheel 32a serves as a roller front wheel, enabling the device to roll in a second direction 44 opposite the first direction 42, with the user standing facing the second direction.

[0208] In some designs, the backrest 52 (as described above) is operatively connected to the frame 20 for movement between (a) an unfolded position of the backrest, in which the backrest is spaced rearwardly from the seat 36 and at least most of the backrest is disposed above a plane defined by the seat, the backrest being transversely oriented toward said plane when the seat is lowered rearwardly, and (b) a folded state of the backrest, in which the backrest is disposed alongside the seat, the backrest extending along the plane of the seat when the seat is in the folded position. A backrest folding mechanism 600 is operable to move the backrest 52 between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0209] In some designs, the backrest folding mechanism (as described above in the mechanism 600) is operatively connected with the seat folding mechanism (as described above in the mechanism 100) for driving the seat folding mechanism when the backrest folding mechanism is driven. The backrest folding mechanism can be operatively connected with the seat folding mechanism such that the backrest folding mechanism drives folding of the backrest 52 and the seat 36.

[0210] The seat 36 can be arranged in a raised position in front of the seat back 52, rather than in a lowered position behind the seat back 52. The seat length of the seat 36 can be shorter when the seat is in the lowered rear position than when the seat is in the raised front position. The seat 36 can have a main seat portion 38 (as described above) and an auxiliary seat portion 40 (as described above) that is operable to change its orientation relative to the main seat portion 38 as the seat 36 moves between the lowered rear position and the raised front position.

[0211] The main seat portion 38 and the auxiliary seat portion 40 can have a side-by-side configuration when the seat 36 is in the lowered rear position, allowing both portions to accommodate a seated user in the lowered rear seat position of the seat 36, wherein the auxiliary seat portion 40 is indirectly changeable in orientation by the seat manipulation mechanism 100 to reduce the seat length of the seat 36. Only the main seat portion 38 is allowed to accommodate a seated user in the raised front seat position of the seat 36 when the seat 36 is moved to the raised front position.

[0212] The main seat portion 38 can have the same orientation in the raised and lowered positions, allowing it to support a user in both positions. The auxiliary seat portion 40 can be mounted in a lower position than the main seat portion 38 and positioned laterally to the main seat portion 38 when the seat 36 is in the raised front position.

[0213] The seat manipulation mechanism 100 can include at least one piston 108 (as described above) configured to store energy when the seat 36 is moved to the lowered rear position and release the stored energy when the seat 36 is moved to the raised front position.

[0214] The roll prevention mechanism 200 can include a roll prevention member 206 (as described above) associated with each first wheel 28a and operable between a rollable state, in which the front wheels 28 are rollable, and a roll brake state, in which the front wheels are prevented from rolling. A roll prevention trigger member 218 (as described above) can be indirectly activated by the seat manipulation mechanism 100 when the seat 36 is pulled to the raised front seat position and operable to cause the roll prevention trigger member 206 to enter the roll brake state.

[0215] The rotation prevention mechanism 300 (as described above) can change the state of the first wheels 28a from a rotatable state (when the seat 36 is in the lowered rear seat position) to a rotation brake state (when the seat 36 is in the raised front seat position, in which the first wheels 28a are not rotatable).

[0216] The rotation prevention mechanism 300 can include a rotation brake member 306 (as described above) associated with the front wheels 28 and operable between a rotationally enabled state allowing rotation of the front wheels and a rotation brake state in which the rotation brake member 306 prevents rotation of the front wheels 28. The rotation prevention trigger member 104 (as described above) can be activated and operable to cause the rotation brake member 306 to enter the rotation brake state when the rotation prevention trigger member 104 causes the rotation prevention member 206 to enter the rotation brake state.

[0217] Each first wheel 28a can take the form of a caster 34 (as described above) attached to the first leg 22 by a caster axle 62 (as described above), the second rotation prevention mechanism 300b being operable to prevent rotation of the caster 34 about the caster axle 62 beyond 180 degrees in the roll only state.

[0218] The roll prevention mechanism 200 and the rotation prevention mechanism 300 can include activation members extending into the front leg 28, the mechanisms being connected to the seat manipulation mechanism 100 by the activation members.

[0219] The frame 20 can be rigid, its legs 28, 32 being non-collapsible. The seat manipulation mechanism 100 can be connected to the first leg 28a of the frame 20. The frame 20 can include a lower portion and an upper portion extending upwardly therefrom. The lower portion can include the first leg 22, the second leg 24 and a frame stiffening bar connected between the second legs 24.

[0220] The frame 20 can include a right frame member and a left frame member, each member having a lower portion of the frame member having a first leg 22, a second leg 24 and an upper portion of the frame member. The backrest 52 can be connected to the upper portion of the frame member.

[0221] The device can include a pair of expandable user support arms 46 connected to the upper portion of the frame member. The arms 46 are operable to transition between a lowered arm position and an expanded arm position. In the lowered arm position, a portion of the arms is located above the upper portion of the frame for use when the device is in the first mode. The expanded arm position is for use at least when the device is in its second mode.

[0222] It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are merely exemplary, that various embodiments of the application can be designed as necessary, and that features described in the above embodiments and features not described in the application can be used alone or in any suitable combination; and that the application can be designed according to the above embodiments not necessarily described.

Claims

1. A foldable user support device, characterized in that, It can be installed on the ground, including: A seat having a main rear seat portion and an auxiliary front seat portion, and operable between three positions: A lower rear seat position, wherein the main rear seat portion and the auxiliary front seat portion are arranged adjacent to each other and aligned to provide a predetermined seat length along a horizontal plane; A higher front seat position, wherein the main rear seat portion maintains its orientation when moved from the lower rear seat position; and at least a majority of the auxiliary front seat portion is lower relative to the main rear seat portion and laterally oriented thereto, thereby reducing the seat length of the seats; and In a folded position, wherein the main rear seat portion and the auxiliary front seat portion change their orientation relative to the lower rear seat position, and their total projected length on the horizontal plane is less than the reduced seat length of the seat in the higher front seat position; and A seat operating and folding mechanism configured to move the seat between the lower rear seat position and the higher front seat position, and between the higher front seat position and the folded position.

2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The device further includes: A backrest, which is movable between the following positions: A backrest extended position, wherein the backrest is rearwardly spaced from the seat, at least a majority of the backrest is positioned on a plane defined by the seat, and when the seat is in the lower rear seat position, the backrest is laterally oriented to the plane. A backrest folded position, wherein the backrest is located near the seat, and when the seat is in the folded position, the backrest extends along the seat; and A backrest folding mechanism, the backrest folding mechanism being operable to move the backrest between the backrest unfolded position and the backrest folded position.

3. The apparatus as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The backrest folding mechanism is operatively connected to the seat operating and folding mechanism so as to activate the seat operating and folding mechanism when the backrest folding mechanism is driven.

4. The apparatus as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The seat is positioned further from the backrest than in the higher front seat position compared to the lower rear seat position.

5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, When the seat is in the higher front seat position, the seat length in its front region is shorter than the seat length when it is in the lower rear seat position.

6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary front seat portion is operable to change its orientation relative to the main rear seat portion when the seat moves between the lower rear seat position and the higher front seat position.

7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The main rear seat portion and the auxiliary front seat portion are arranged side-by-side when the seat is in its lower rear seat position, allowing both portions to accommodate a seated user in the lower rear seat position of the seat. The auxiliary front seat portion can be indirectly operated, at least via the seat operation and folding mechanism, to change its orientation to reduce the seat length. When the seat is moved to its higher front seat position, only the main rear seat portion is allowed to accommodate a seated user in the higher front seat position.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The main rear seat portion is oriented in both the higher front seat position and the lower rear seat position, enabling it to support a user in both positions.

9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, When the seat is in the higher front seat position, the auxiliary front seat portion is positioned lower than the main rear seat portion and oriented laterally thereto.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The seat operating and folding mechanism includes at least one piston configured to store energy when the seat is moved to the lower rear seat position and to release the stored energy when the seat is moved to its higher front seat position.

11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes at least one front wheel and at least one roll-off prevention mechanism, wherein the at least one roll-off prevention mechanism includes: A roll-off prevention member, associated with each of the front wheels and operable between a rolling state in which the front wheels are capable of rolling and a roll-off braking state that prevents the front wheels from rolling; and A roll-off prevention triggering member is provided, which can be indirectly activated at least by the seat operation and folding mechanism when the seat is thus brought to the higher front seat position, and is operable to put the roll-off prevention triggering member into the roll braking state.

12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The device includes at least one first rotation prevention mechanism operable to change the state of the front wheel from a rotatable state to a rotation braking state, wherein the seat is in the lower rear seat position in the rotatable state and the seat is in the higher front seat position in the rotation braking state, thereby preventing the front wheel from rotating.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one first rotation prevention mechanism comprises: A rotational braking member, the rotational braking member being associated with and operable to be manipulated between a rotatable state that allows the front wheel to rotate and a rotational braking state that prevents the front wheel from rotating. as well as A rotation prevention triggering member is provided, which at least indirectly activates the rotation prevention triggering member when the rolling prevention triggering member brings the rolling prevention member into the rolling braking state, and the rotation prevention triggering member is operable to bring the rotation braking member into its rotation braking state.

14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The device includes at least one front wheel, which is in the form of a caster assembly attached to a front leg, and the caster assembly includes a swivel caster having a wheel and configured to allow rotation of the wheel; the caster assembly also includes at least one of the following functions: At least one rolling prevention mechanism may be at least indirectly executed by any one of the seat operation and folding mechanism and a rolling and rotation control mechanism; or At least one first rotation prevention mechanism and at least one second rotation prevention mechanism are operable to lock the rotating caster after partially rotating it to a first predetermined angle and a second predetermined angle in the rolling direction, wherein the first predetermined angle and the second predetermined angle are different. The at least one rolling prevention mechanism and the at least one first rotation prevention mechanism can be executed simultaneously.

15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The device includes a frame having a plurality of legs; wherein the frame is rigid and at least a plurality of its legs are non-foldable.

16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The seat operating and folding mechanism is connected to several of the front legs of the frame.

17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The device includes a frame having a plurality of front legs, and the at least one rolling prevention mechanism and the at least one first rotation prevention mechanism include a plurality of activation elements extending into the plurality of front legs, the mechanisms being connected to the seat operation and folding mechanism via the plurality of activation elements.

18. The device of claim 15, wherein the frame comprises a lower portion and an upwardly extending upper portion, wherein the lower portion comprises a plurality of front legs and a plurality of rear legs and a reinforcing rod connecting the plurality of rear legs.

19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18, characterized in that, The frame includes a right frame member and a left frame member, each having a lower frame member portion and an upper frame member portion, the lower frame member portion having a first leg and a second leg.

20. The apparatus as claimed in claim 19, characterized in that, The device also includes a pair of expandable user support arms connected to the upper portion of the plurality of frame members and switchable between a lower arm position and an extended arm position, wherein a portion of the expandable user support arms is located on the upper portion of the plurality of frames for use when the device is in a first mode, and in the extended arm position for use at least when the device is in a second mode.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, None of the mechanisms of the device have electrical connections or power sources.

22. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, In the backrest extended position, the backrest forms a first angle with the plane defined by the seat located in the lower rear seat position; in the backrest folded position, the backrest forms a second acute angle with the plane, the second acute angle being smaller than the first angle.

23. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, In the folded position of the backrest, at least a majority of the backrest extends along the frame in a side view of the device.

24. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, When the seat is in the folded position, at least most of the seat extends along the frame in a side view of the device.

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