Self-retracting tread

Abstract

A self-retracting step for assisting a user in lifting themselves above a floor is disclosed. The self-retracting step includes a self-retracting foot member and a cylindrical assembly coupled to the self-retracting foot member. The foot member is configured to move from one position to another. The cylindrical assembly includes a rotating member, one or more spring members, and a raised member. The rotating member is configured to move the foot member to a predetermined position. Further, the spring member coupled to the rotating member is configured to self-retract the foot member from the predetermined position. The raised member disposed on the cylindrical assembly is configured to act as a stop to hold the foot member in place when retracted by the spring member. The self-retracting step further includes a load-bearing member at a base portion of the foot member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 750,858, filed Oct. 26, 2018, the specification of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] A. Technical Field This application generally relates to retractable steps attached to a floor. More specifically, this application relates to a self-retracting step for assisting a user in lifting themselves above the floor, particularly for accessing a sink.

Background Art

[0003] B. Description of Related Art Handwashing contributes significantly to public health. However, in almost all public restrooms, people of short stature cannot access the sink. This is because there are few public restrooms equipped with elevating devices or low sinks. People of short stature include small people and small children. When a parent wants their children to wash their hands in a public restroom, the parent has to lift the children and sandwich them between themselves and the countertop in order to raise the children to an appropriate height. This uncomfortable arrangement is very strenuous for the child being held in an unnatural position and for the parent who has to lift the child. In many cases, small people are not accompanied by taller people who can lift them, so there is no way for them to use the sink in a public restroom. A few prior art references addressing the aforementioned problems are considered below.

[0004] US 9,611,691 by John Scott Hunter et al. discloses a cabinet-integrated step stool. The cabinet-integrated step stool for use in a cabinet defines an interior area and includes a framework having a pair of upright sidewalls, each sidewall having a rear section and a front section extending forwardly and downwardly from the rear section. The upper steps extend between the upper edges of the respective rear sections. The lower steps extend between the upper edges of the respective lower sections. Each includes a rounded rear foot such that the rear foot rests on the bottom wall of the cabinet and the framework is pivotally movable between an extended configuration where the front section extends forwardly through the opening of the cabinet and a stored configuration where the rear foot rests on the bottom wall of the cabinet and the front section is inside the interior area of the cabinet. The cabinet-integrated step stool is necessarily designed to be installed inside a cabinet under a sink, and the bottom wall of the cabinet is higher than the floor in front of the sink. As shown in FIG. 5 of US 9,611,691, in this configuration, since the front feet reach the floor and the rear feet are disposed on the bottom wall of the cabinet, the required height of the step stool increases. As a result, the step stool is bulky. Further, the step stool is pulled out from the cabinet and returned to the cabinet using a manual mechanism. This forces the user to touch the surface of the sink, which may not be hygienic.

[0005] US Patent No. 2,881,040 to Hartridge Virginia Masden discloses a retractable, slidable step chair for use in cabinets and the like. A combination of a retractable step ladder and a chair is provided that is adapted to slide along the front of a kitchen counter on a guide track for access to any one of a plurality of upper cabinets and to pivot about said track to be retracted into one of the counter cabinets for storage. These prior art references provide a function to assist the user in lifting themselves above the floor, but they are unable to provide an optimal function for the user, and the user is required to manually move the device to the storage position. Further, they are installed within the cabinet.

[0006] There is a need for a self-retracting step that includes an economical design to assist the user in lifting themselves above the floor. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] This application discloses a self-retracting step for assisting a person in lifting themselves above the floor, particularly for accessing a sink.

[0008] According to the present application, the self-retracting step includes a self-retracting foot member and a cylindrical assembly coupled to the self-retracting foot member. The foot member is configured to move from one position to another position. In one embodiment, the foot member is configured to move between a vertical or rest position and a horizontal or deployed position. The cylindrical assembly includes a rotating member, one or more spring members, and a raised member. The rotating member is configured to move the foot member to a predetermined position. In one embodiment, the rotating member is configured to move the foot member to the horizontal position.

[0009] Furthermore, the spring member coupled to the rotating member is configured to self-retract the foot member from a predetermined position. In one embodiment, the spring member is configured to self-retract the foot member from a horizontal position to a vertical position. The raised member disposed in the cylindrical assembly is configured to function as a stopper for holding the foot member in a predetermined position during the retraction by the spring member. In one embodiment, the raised member is configured to function as a stopper for holding the foot member in a vertical position during the retraction by the spring member. The self-retracting step further includes a load-bearing member at the base portion of the foot member. In one embodiment, the load-bearing member is configured to hold the foot member above the ground in the horizontal position. In one embodiment, the foot member is a staircase member having at least two steps.

[0010] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a self-retracting step that may include a foot member and a cylindrical assembly. The foot member may include at least two steps and a load-bearing member disposed at the base portion of the foot member. The cylindrical assembly may be coupled to the foot member and may be attachable to the floor and may include a rotating member configured to move the foot member between a horizontal position and a vertical position.

[0011] The self-retracting assembly of the present disclosure may include any one or any combination of the following features. The cylindrical assembly may include one or more spring members configured to retract the foot member, and the one or more spring members can be attached to the rotating member. One or more wheels can be provided between the spring member and the cylindrical assembly, each of the wheels may have one or more holes, and the wheels are configured to change the strength of the spring member. The spring member can be configured to retract the foot member from a horizontal position to a vertical position. The cylindrical assembly may include a raised member configured to function as a stopper for holding the foot member in a predetermined position. The self-retracting step can be configured such that the foot is placed on at least one step and the deployment of the foot member is performed by pushing at least one step downward. At least two steps of the foot member may include an upper step and a lower step, and the depth of the lower step is smaller than the depth of the upper step. The load-bearing member can be retracted from the front edge of the foot member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a self-retracting step that may include a foot member and a rotating assembly. The foot member may include at least a first step and a second step, and a load-bearing member disposed on a base portion of the foot member. The rotating assembly may be coupled to the foot member and configured to be attached to a fixed horizontal plane. The rotating assembly may include a rotating member configured to allow the foot member to rotate from a use position to a rest position relative to the fixed surface.

[0013] The self-retracting assembly of the present disclosure may independently or in any combination include any of the following features. The rotating assembly may include a retraction mechanism configured to retract the foot member from the use position to the rest position. The retraction mechanism may include one or more biasing members and / or motors. The rotating assembly may include one or more dampers attached to the biasing member. The cylindrical assembly may be configured to support the load applied through the foot member. The height of the first step may be 10 inches and the depth may be 6 inches, and the height of the second step may be 5 inches and the depth may be 4 inches. The rotating assembly may include a stopper for holding the foot member in the rest position. The rotating assembly may have a curved upper surface, and the foot member may have a curved surface that engages the curved upper surface of the rotating assembly. The depth of the first step may be between 50% and 80% of the depth of the second step. The load-bearing member may be disposed away from the front edge of the foot member and away from the two side edges of the foot member. The foot member may include an angled front edge that is angled such that when the foot member is in the rest position, the user can read an indication displayed on the angled front edge.

[0014] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a system including a floor, a countertop, and a self-retracting step floor, wherein the foot member of the self-retracting step is fully disposed at least 3 inches behind the front edge of the countertop in the rest position. The self-retracting step may have any of the above features.

[0015] Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, it should be understood that various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description, and that the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only while showing specific embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, exemplary configurations of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific methods and structures disclosed herein. The description of a method step or structure referenced by a number in the drawings is applicable to the description of that method step or structure indicated by the same number in subsequent drawings of this specification.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0017]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 6C

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 7C

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Here, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It is expected that the present invention can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments should be considered as illustrative only in all respects and should not be regarded as restrictive.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the present invention discloses a self-retracting step 100 for assisting a user in lifting himself / herself above the floor. Referring to FIG. 2, according to the present invention, the self-retracting step 100 includes a self-retracting foot member 102 and a cylindrical assembly 104 coupled to the foot member 102. In one embodiment, the self-retracting foot member 102 is configured to move from one position to another position. In one embodiment, the foot member 102 is configured to move to a predetermined position via a rotating member of the cylindrical assembly 104. Further, the foot member 102 is configured to self-retract from a predetermined position via one or more spring members 112 of the cylindrical assembly 104.

[0020] In another embodiment, the foot member 102 is configured to move between a vertical position and a horizontal position. In one embodiment, the foot member 102 is configured to move to the horizontal position via a rotating member of the cylindrical assembly 104. Further, the foot member 102 is configured to self-retract from a predetermined position via the spring member 112 of the cylindrical assembly 104.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 2, the foot member 102 is a stepped member including at least two steps 106. In one embodiment, the foot member 102 is displaced from a vertical position to a horizontal position by placing a foot on at least one step 106 of the stepped member. Referring to FIG. 3, a cylindrical assembly 104 coupled to the self-retracting foot member 102 is shown.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 4, the cylindrical assembly 104 of the foot member 102 is shown. The cylindrical assembly 104 includes a raised member 110, a rotating member, and a spring member 112. In one embodiment, the rotating member is configured to move the foot member 102 to a horizontal position. In one embodiment, the spring member 112 coupled to the rotating member is configured to self-retract the foot member 102 from the horizontal position to the vertical position. In one embodiment, the raised member 110 is disposed in the cylindrical assembly 104 and is configured to function as a stopper for holding the step in a vertical position during retraction by the spring member 112.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 5A, the base portion of the foot member 102 further includes at least one load-bearing member 108 adapted to hold the foot member 102 above the ground while in the horizontal position. In one embodiment, the dimensions of the self-retracting step 100 can vary. In one embodiment, a wheel having one or more holes is provided between the cylindrical assembly 104 and the spring member 112 to vary the strength of the spring member 112. In one embodiment, the cylindrical assembly 104 is made of a material including, but not limited to, molded plastic. The foot member 102 can be manufactured from various materials. For example, the main body can be made of plastic by rotational molding with the anti-slip members 106a and 106b adhered or attached. Injection molding of plastic parts may also be suitable for assembly to form the member 102.

[0024] During operation of the present invention, the deployment of the foot member 102 is performed by placing the foot on at least one step 106 and pressing downward. The rotating member moves the foot member 102 from the rest position to the horizontal position by the force applied by the user's foot. Further, when the foot is removed from the step 106, the spring member 112 of the cylindrical assembly 104 is adapted to self-retract the foot member 102 to the rest position.

[0025] Advantageously, the present invention assists the user in lifting themselves above the floor to access the sink. Further, the step member including at least two steps 106 facilitates easy access to the self-retracting step 100 for users such as children or small people. According to the present invention, the self-retracting function enables an automatic transition to the storage position or the vertical position of the self-retracting step 100.

[0026] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the present invention. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0027] The foregoing description includes exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Although the exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described thus, those skilled in the art should realize that within the disclosure it is merely illustrative and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a particular order does not constitute a limitation on the order of those method steps. Many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention will come to mind to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description. Specific terms may be used herein, but they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown herein.

[0028] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed above are described below with reference to FIGS. 1-5. Generally, the present disclosure relates to a step that can be used by a child to reach a sink. The step may include a mechanism that automatically retracts to a rest position when not in use. The step 100 may include a foot member 102 configured for a user to stand on and a rotation assembly 104 configured for the foot member to rotate between a rest position and a use position. In some embodiments, the foot member 102 may include a first step 106a and a second step 106b. In some embodiments, the rotation assembly 104 may be a cylindrical assembly as described above.

[0029] As discussed above, the foot member 102 may include two or more steps 106a, 106b and a load-bearing member 108. The steps 106a, 106b may be covered with a non-slip material or may be textured during the manufacturing process to have a non-slip surface. The foot member 102 may have an inclined rear surface 118, which may allow the second step 106b to be in a forward position relative to the point where the foot member 102 connects to the rotation assembly 104.

[0030] The load-bearing member 108 is clearly shown in FIGS. 5A-5B. The load-bearing member 108 can extend from the base / bottom surface of the foot member 102. The load-bearing member 108 can be disposed at the center of the foot member 102 with respect to the width of the foot member 102, as shown in FIG. 5A. Accordingly, the load-bearing member 108 can be disposed at a distance of 1 inch to 5 inches from each side edge of the foot member 102. The load-bearing member 108 can be offset from the front edge of the foot member 102, as shown in FIG. 5B. Accordingly, the load-bearing member 108 can be disposed at a distance of 1 inch to 5 inches from the front edge of the foot member 102. In some embodiments, the load-bearing member 108 can be disposed several inches or more away from all edges of the foot member 102. This arrangement prevents the user's foot from being caught / pinched under the load-bearing member 108 when the foot member 102 is moved to the use position. In some embodiments, the load-bearing member 108 can be disposed on the base of the foot member 102 based on manufacturing considerations. For example, the load-bearing member 108 can be disposed under both the first tread 106a and the second tread 106b. This position of the load-bearing member 108 can support the weight applied through either of the treads 106a, 106b and can enable the foot member 102 to be manufactured as a partially or substantially hollow unit.

[0031] The rotation assembly 104 can be attached to a fixed surface such as a floor and can enable the foot member 102 to rotate with respect to the fixed surface. The rotation assembly 104 can enable the foot member 102 to move between a use position and a rest position. In some embodiments, the use position can be substantially vertical such that the load-bearing member 108 of the foot member 102 rests on the floor. In some embodiments, the rest position can be substantially horizontal such that the foot member 102 extends upwardly from the rotation assembly. For example, FIG. 1B shows the first tread 100 (front) in the use position and the second tread 100 (rear) between the use position and the rest position.

[0032] When the step 100 is not in use, the rotation assembly 104 can self-retract the foot member 102 from the use position to the rest position. When the step 100 is not in use, the foot member 102 can be maintained in the rest position. By the user pulling down the first step 106a with the foot, the foot assembly 102 can be moved to the use position. Next, the user can maintain the foot assembly 102 in the use position by standing on the foot assembly 102. When the user gets off the foot assembly 102, the rotation assembly can retract the foot assembly 102 to the rest position. In this case, the "user" can include a plurality of people. For example, an adult can move the foot member 102 to the use position, and then a child can use the step 100. The above mechanism can improve the hygiene of the step 100 by preventing the user's hand from contacting the step 100. It can also improve convenience and safety by self-moving the step 100 to an inconspicuous rest position when not in use.

[0033] As discussed above, the rotation assembly 104 can include a rotating member 120. The rotating member 120 can be configured to enable the foot member 102 to rotate relative to the fixed surface to which the rotation assembly 104 is attached. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the rotating member 120 can be a shaft. One or more biasing members 112, or spring members, can be attached to the rotating member 120 to self-retract the step member 102 when the user is not standing on the step member 102. In some embodiments, the biasing member 112 can be a torsion spring, as shown in FIG. 3. The biasing member 112 can also be a torsion rod, a pneumatic mechanism, or any other biasing means known in the art. In some embodiments, a damper can be attached to the biasing member to modulate the movement of the step member 102. In some embodiments, a motor can be used to self-retract the step member 102. The motor can be actuated by a motion or weight sensor.

[0034] The rotating assembly 104 may also include a housing. The housing may comprise a plate 122, an upper surface 124, and one or more end plates 132. The plate 122 may be configured to be attached to a fixed surface such as a floor. As shown in FIG. 3, the plate 122 can be attached to the floor using one or more bolts 126 and nuts 128. The plate 122 can also be attached to the floor using any other means known in the art. The plate 122 may include a vertically extending portion 130 that is attached to other components of the rotating assembly 104.

[0035] The upper surface 124 may include an overall curved or cylindrical surface. The upper surface 124 may be coupled to a curved extension (not shown) disposed on the back side of the step member. As shown in FIG. 2, the upper surface 124 of the rotating member 204 fits snugly with the foot member 102 but can be formed to still allow smooth rotation between the foot member 102 and the rotating assembly 102. By fitting snugly, objects such as shoelaces or a child's finger can be prevented from catching on the step 100. It can also improve the ease and completeness when cleaning the step 100.

[0036] The upper surface 124 may be connected to the end plate 132 and / or may be formed integrally with the end plate 132. As shown in FIG. 3, the end plate 132 can be connected to the plate 122 via one or more bolts and nuts or any other means known in the art. This can provide the necessary connection between the plate 122, the remaining components of the rotating assembly 104, and the foot member 102. The upper surface and the end plate 132 can form a continuous curved surface that is easy to clean and has no potentially dangerous sharp edges.

[0037] Figures 1 - 5 show exemplary dimensions of the step 100 and the environments in which it can be installed. Generally, the dimensions of the step 100 can be selected such that it can be easily used by a child to reach the bathroom sink. The dimensions can also be selected so that the step 100 does not interfere with adults using the sink or cleaning around the sink when not in use.

[0038] Figures 1 - 5 show the following nine dimensions of the step 100: the overall length, L, of the step 100 in the use position; the overall height, H, of the step 100 in the rest position; the width, W1, of the foot member 102; the width, W2, of the rotation assembly 104; the height, H1, of the first step 106a of the foot member 102; the height, H2, of the second step 106b of the foot member 102; the height, H3, of the load-bearing member 108 of the foot member 102; the depth, D1, of the first step 106a of the foot member 102; and the depth of the second step 106b of the foot member 102.

[0039] W1 can be selected such that the foot member 102 is stable when a child stands on it, and W2 can be selected such that the rotation assembly 104 provides the necessary support to the foot member 102. In some embodiments, W1 can be between 9 inches and 20 inches, between 10 inches and 18 inches, or between 12 inches and 14 inches. In some embodiments, W2 can be approximately 2 inches to 6 inches larger than W1, or approximately 3 inches to 5 inches larger than W1.

[0040] H1 and H2 can be selected such that the foot member 102 can be easily used by a child to reach the sink. In other words, H1 and H2 are low enough that a child can easily climb them and high enough that a child can use them to reach the sink. H3 can be selected such that the foot member 102 is high enough from the ground so as not to pinch the user's feet underneath. In some embodiments, H2 can be between 6 inches and 15 inches, between 9 inches and 12 inches, or about 10 inches. In some embodiments, H1 can be between 25% and 75% of H2, between 40% and 60% of H2, or about 50% of H2. In some embodiments, H1 can be about 5 inches. In some embodiments, H3 can be between 0 and 4 inches, or about 2 inches.

[0041] D2 can be selected such that a child can stand stably on the second step 106b of the foot member 102. D1 can be selected such that a child can easily step from the first step 106a to the second step 106b and may or may not be able to stand stably on the first step 106a. In other words, D1 may be small enough that a small child can use the first step 106a as a step but not stand on it. A child with feet that are too large to use the first step 106a as a step may be tall enough to step directly onto the second step 106b. In some embodiments, D2 can be between 4 inches and 15 inches, between 6 inches and 12 inches, or about 8 inches. In some embodiments, D1 can be between 25% and 100% of D2, between 50% and 80% of D2, or about 65% of D2. In some embodiments, D1 can be about 2 inches. By making D1 smaller than D2, the force of the biasing mechanism required to lift the step 100 can be reduced, and similarly, the position of the load-bearing member 108 can be arranged closer to the axis of rotation.

[0042] D1 and D2 contribute to the overall length L / vertical height H of the step 100. Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, it can be seen that the length L of the step 100 measured when the step 100 is in the use position is approximately equal to the vertical height H of the step 100 measured when the step 100 is in the rest position. Minimizing the length L / vertical height H of the step 100 makes the step 100 more compact and thus functions more easily in a public washroom. This can improve the ease with which the area around the step 100 can be cleaned. It can also prevent the foot member 102 of the step 100 from contacting the sink on which the step 100 is placed when the step 100 is in the rest position. The vertical height H can be selected such that the step 100 does not interfere with the sink or pipes under the sink. For example, the vertical height H may be substantially lower than the height of the sink on which it is installed. Minimizing the length L / vertical height H of the step 100 can also reduce the overall weight of the foot member 102, thereby reducing the force that the rotational assembly 104 must apply to retract the foot member 102.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the step 100 can also be positioned relative to the sink 114 on which it is installed in a manner that minimizes interference with the person using the sink. In particular, the front edge 116 of the rotational assembly 104 (see FIG. 5) can be positioned at a distance behind the front edge of the sink 114. That distance can be selected such that an adult using the sink does not contact the step 100 with their foot or leg when the step 100 is in the rest position. The step 100 can be configured such that when it is in the rest position, the entire foot member is in a straight line perpendicular to or behind the front edge 116 of the rotational assembly 104. In some embodiments, a portion of the foot member 102, such as the load-bearing member 108, can extend in front of the front edge 116 of the rotational assembly. In some embodiments, the front edge 116 of the rotational assembly 104 can be installed 0 inches to 12 inches behind the front edge of the sink 114, 2 inches to 8 inches behind the front edge of the sink 114, or 3 inches to 4 inches behind the front edge of the sink 114.

[0044] The step 100 can be installed using any means known in the art. As discussed above, it can be installed in a washroom near a sink, particularly a public washroom. Exemplary methods of installing the step are described below with reference to FIGS. 1-5. The installation location can be selected based on the above parameters. For example, the installation location can be arranged 3-4 inches behind the front edge of the sink relative to the front edge of the rotating assembly. The plate 122 of the rotating assembly 104 can be attached to the installation location using nuts and bolts or any attachment means known in the art. The step member 102 and the components of the rotating assembly 104 except the plate 122 can be assembled with each other. The assembly can be carried out before the installation of the step 100 or as part of the same process as the installation. The end plate 132 may or may not be assembled with the other components discussed above. The assembled components can be arranged on the installed plate 122 such that the components of the rotating member 120 and the other components of the rotating assembly 104 are coupled to the vertical extension 130 of the plate 122. In some embodiments, the rotating member 120 and / or the spring member 112 can be connected to the vertical extension 130. If the end plate 132 is not pre-assembled with the other components, they can be arranged at the ends of the upper surface 122. The end plate 132 can be fixed to the plate 122 using nuts and bolts or any other means known in the art.

[0045] FIGS. 6-7 show additional embodiments of the self-retracting step 100. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the features shown in different figures and discussed in different embodiments can be combined with each other without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figures 6A - 6C show a self - retracting step 100 including a foot member 102 and a rotation assembly 104. The foot member 102 can be similar to the above - described foot member 102. The foot member 102 can include an angled front edge 140, which can be angled so that when the foot member 102 is in the rest position, a user can read an instruction 142 displayed thereon. The foot member 108 can also include a load - bearing member 108 disposed on the bottom surface. The load - bearing member 108 has a rounded edge, which can facilitate the cleaning of the self - retracting step 100. The load - bearing member 108 can include an extension formed on the bottom surface and configured to contact the ground, as shown in FIG. 6A.

[0047] The foot member can include a curved surface 144 and a rotating extension 150 at the rear position. The curved surface 144 can be configured to engage with a complementary curved portion of the rotation assembly 104, which will be detailed below. The rotating extension 150 can generally be cylindrical as shown in FIGS. 6A - 6C, or can have any other shape that allows rotation.

[0048] The foot member 102 can be manufactured by any means known in the art. Such means can include blow molding, injection molding, rotational molding, 3D printing, and conventional machining. In some embodiments, the foot member 102 can be substantially hollow. The foot member 102 can include an outer wall and can have an inner wall, as a result of which an internal cavity is formed within the foot member. In some embodiments, the outer wall of the foot member 102 can be about 1 / 16 inch thick. The structure and material of the foot member 102 can make it possible to be lightweight.

[0049] The rotation assembly 104 can include a housing containing internal components. The housing of the rotation assembly 104 can include a plate 146 and two end pieces 148. These components are shown in more detail in FIGS. 7A - 7C.

[0050] The internal components may include one or more biasing members 112 and one or more rotating members 120. The biasing member 112 may include a torsion spring as shown in FIGS. 6A - 6C, or other optional biasing means such as an elastic member, a pneumatic member, or a motor. The biasing member 112 can be attached at one end to the rotational extension 150 of the foot member 102. The other end of the biasing member 112 may engage with the end piece 148 of the housing. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6C, the rotational extension 150 may include a plurality of holes to which the biasing member 112 can be attached. Attaching the biasing member 112 to different holes can change the force applied by the biasing member 112 to retract the foot member 102.

[0051] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6A - 6C, the rotating member 120 may be rigidly attached to the rotational extension 150 of the foot member 102 and rotatably connected to the end piece 148 via a bearing 154. In some embodiments, the rotating member 120 may be rigidly attached to the end piece 148 and rotatably connected to the foot member 102.

[0052] FIGS. 7A - 7C show the housing of the rotating assembly 104. As discussed above, the housing may include a plate 146 and two end pieces 148. The plate 146 may be configured to be attached to a bathroom floor or other horizontal surface. In some embodiments, the plate can be attached to the surface via bolts and nuts as shown in FIG. 6B, or any other means known in the art. The plate 146 may include a vertically extending portion 152 configured to be attached to the end piece 148 via bolts or any other means known in the art. The vertically extending portion 152 may include a curved or angled corner and may have a straight upper edge. The straight upper edge can engage closely enough with the rotational extension 150 to prevent an item from being caught between the rotational extension 150 and the vertically extending portion 152.

[0053] The end piece 148 may include a surface 156 configured to couple with the following: the plate 146 (surface 156a), the rotational extension 150 of the foot member 102 (surface 156b), and the bearing 154 (surface 156c). The surface 156a that couples with the plate 146 may include a recess such that the outer surface of the plate is coplanar with the outer surface of the end piece 148. The surface 156a may include one or more coupling structures, such as bolt holes, so that the plate 148 can be rigidly attached to the end piece 148. The end piece 148 may also include an internal notch 158 configured to engage with the biasing member 112. The biasing member 112 may be a torsion spring, and the internal notch 158 may hold the end of the biasing member 112.

[0054] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the shape of the end piece 148 is determined based on the other components of the self-retracting step 100. Thus, if the other components are changed from those shown in FIGS. 6-7, the end piece 148 may be different from that shown. For example, if the biasing member 112 is an elastic member rather than a torsion spring, the end piece 148 may include an attachment point for the elastic member instead of, or in addition to, the internal notch 158. One of ordinary skill in the art will be able to readily envision other such modifications.

[0055] The end piece 148 and the rotational extension 150 may be configured to prevent rotation of the foot member 102 beyond a certain point. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6C, the rotational extension 150 may include a stopper 160. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, the end piece 148 may include a complementary surface 162 that engages the stopper 160. In some embodiments, the engagement of the stopper 160 and the complementary surface 162 may hold the foot member 102 in a rest position.

[0056] The rotating assembly 104 can be manufactured by any means known in the art. In some embodiments, the plate 146 can include machined sheet metal and the end piece 148 can include plastic. The end piece 148 can be formed by rotational molding, injection molding, or any other means known in the art. Some portions of the end piece 148 can be reinforced using metal or another material. The rotating assembly 104 can generally be manufactured to be robust and lightweight. For example, the end piece 148 can be substantially hollow, as shown in FIG. 7C. In some embodiments, the end piece 148 can include an outer wall that is approximately 1 / 16 inch thick. The outer surface of the rotating assembly 104, i.e., the housing, can be manufactured to have mostly or entirely curved surfaces. This can facilitate cleaning of the housing and can prevent fingers, feet, clothing, or other objects from catching on the self-retracting step.

[0057] The step 100 can be installed using any means known in the art. As discussed above, it can be installed in a washroom near a sink, particularly a public washroom. Exemplary methods of installing the step are described below with reference to FIGS. 6-7. The installation location can be selected based on the above parameters. For example, the installation location can be arranged such that the front edge of the rotating assembly is 3-4 inches behind the front edge of the sink. The plate 146 of the rotating assembly 104 can be attached to the installation location using nuts and bolts or any attachment means known in the art. The step member 102 and the components of the rotating assembly 104 except for the plate 122 can be assembled together. The biasing member 112 can be connected to a specific hole in the rotating extension 150 to provide appropriate rigidity in some embodiments. The assembly can be carried out before the installation of the step 100 or as part of the same process as the installation. The assembled components can be placed on the attached plate 146 such that the end piece 148 is coupled to the vertical extension 152 of the plate 146. The end piece 148 can be fixed to the plate 146 using nuts and bolts or any other means known in the art.

[0058] The advantages of the self-retracting step disclosed herein have been described throughout this disclosure. For convenience, they are summarized here. This step has the potential to improve the convenience of the washroom by enabling children to access a normal sink. It also has the potential to improve safety and hygiene by allowing the step to be positioned in the use position using only the user's foot and by self-retracting the step when not in use. It may have a relatively small installation area and be easy to clean and maintain. This step can also be configured such that feet and clothing do not get caught in or under it.

Claims

**Claim 1** A self - retracting step for assisting a user in lifting themselves above the floor, comprising a self - retracting foot member configured to move from one position to another position, and a cylindrical assembly coupled to the self - retracting foot member, the cylindrical assembly comprising a rotating member configured to move the foot member to a predetermined position, and one or more spring members coupled to the rotating member and configured to self - retract the foot member from the predetermined position, and a raised member disposed in the cylindrical assembly and configured to act as a stopper for holding the foot member in a predetermined position during the retraction by the spring member ; The self - retracting step further comprises one or more wheels provided between the spring member and the cylindrical assembly, each of the wheels comprising one or more holes, and the wheels are configured to change the strength of the spring member, the self - retracting step. **Claim 2** The self - retracting step according to claim 1, wherein the foot member is a staircase member comprising at least two steps. **Claim 3** The self - retracting step according to claim 1, further comprising a load - bearing member at a base portion of the foot member. **Claim 4** A self - retracting step, comprising a foot member comprising at least two steps, and a load - bearing member at a base portion of the foot member, a foot member; and a cylindrical assembly coupled to the foot member and attachable to the floor, the cylindrical assembly comprising a rotating member configured to move the foot member between a horizontal position and a vertical position ; The self - retracting step, wherein the cylindrical assembly further comprises a raised member configured to act as a stopper for holding the foot member in a predetermined position. **Claim 5** The self - retracting step according to claim 4, wherein the cylindrical assembly further comprises one or more spring members configured to retract the foot member. **Claim 6** The self - retracting step according to claim 5, wherein the one or more spring members are attached to the rotating member. **Claim 7** Further comprising one or more wheels provided between the spring member and the cylindrical assembly, each of the wheels comprising one or more holes, the wheels being configured to change the strength of the spring member, the self-retracting step according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The self-retracting step according to claim 7, wherein the spring member is configured to retract the foot member from the horizontal position to the vertical position.

9. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the deployment of the foot member is configured to be performed by placing a foot on at least one step and pressing downward.

10. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the at least two steps comprise an upper step and a lower step, and the depth of the lower step is smaller than the depth of the upper step.

11. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the load-bearing member is recessed from the front edge of the foot member.

12. A self-retracting step, A foot member, Comprising at least a first step and a second step, And a load-bearing member disposed at the base of the foot member A foot member, and A rotary assembly coupled to the foot member and configured to be attached to a fixed horizontal plane, the rotary assembly comprising a rotary member configured to allow the foot member to rotate from a use position to a rest position with respect to the fixed surface. Comprising The self-retracting step, wherein the rotary assembly further comprises a stopper for holding the foot member in the rest position.

13. The self-retracting step according to claim 12, wherein the rotary assembly comprises a retraction mechanism configured to retract the foot member from the use position to the rest position.

14. The self-retracting step according to claim 13, wherein the retraction mechanism comprises one or more biasing members.

15. The self-retracting step according to claim 14, wherein the rotary assembly further comprises one or more dampers attached to the biasing member.

16. The self-retracting step according to claim 13, wherein the retraction mechanism comprises a motor.

17. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the rotating assembly is configured to support a load applied through the foot member.

18. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the first step has a height of 10 inches and a depth of 6 inches, and the second step has a height of 5 inches and a depth of 4 inches.

19. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the rotating assembly comprises a curved upper surface, and the foot member comprises a curved surface that engages with the curved upper surface of the rotating assembly.

20. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the depth of the first step is 50% to 80% of the depth of the second step.

21. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein the load-bearing member is disposed away from the front edge of the foot member and away from two side edges of the foot member.

22. The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 12 to 21, wherein the foot member comprises an angled front edge that is angled such that a user can read an indication displayed on the angled front edge when the foot member is in the rest position.

23. Floor, Sink, and The self-retracting step according to any one of claims 1 to 22, attached to the floor, A system comprising: wherein the foot member is completely disposed at least 3 inches behind the front edge of the sink in the rest position.

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