Portable toilet assistance device

Abstract

A portable toilet assistance device is disclosed for supporting a user’s feet while the user is seated on a toilet. The device includes first and second legs pivotably coupled by a hinge and first and second panels that cooperate to form a third support member when unfolded to an expanded configuration. The device is collapsible to a compact profile for storage and transport. Inlets or recessed cavities may house a fastening device, such as a disc-shaped magnet, and / or a fastening mate to assist retention of a device in a collapsed state and / or to couple together the two devices of a paired set while collapsed. Non-slip material may be provided on one or more foot-contacting and / or floor-contacting surfaces to reduce slipping during use.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 18 / 100,341, filed January 23, 2023, titled “PORTABLE TOILET ASSISTANCE DEVICE” (the “Parent Application”). The disclosure of the Parent Application is incorporated herein by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the disclosure of this application. This continuation-in-part application further includes additional subject matter directed to improved retention and coupling features while the device is in a collapsed state, and related structural refinements.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.FIELD

[0003] This disclosure relates to toilet assistance devices. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a portable, foldable toilet assistance device configured to improve user posture during toileting and to be compact for storage and transport.BACKGROUND

[0004] Toilet assistance devices are known in the art, including stools and foot supports that may be used to elevate a user’s feet while seated on a toilet. Conventional devices may be bulky, unstable, difficult to sanitize, or inconvenient to carry when traveling or using public restroom facilities.

[0005] By way of example, the prior art includes, without limitation, U.S. Patent No. 6,889,393; U.S. Publication No. 2013 / 0086737; U.S. Publication No. 2016 / 0309970; and U.S. Publication No. 2020 / 0245829.

[0006] Accordingly, there remains a need for a portable toilet assistance device that is compact, foldable, stable in use, and convenient for storage and transport, including in a pocket or small bag.SUMMARY

[0007] A collapsible toilet stool is disclosed, which may take the form of a portable toilet assistance device. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device comprises two collapsible, generally triangular elements configured to be used as a pair, one under each foot, to assist with a more ergonomic posture during use of a toilet.

[0008] In some embodiments, each portable toilet assistance device includes a first leg, a second leg, and first and second panels that cooperate to form a third support member (or “third leg”) when unfolded. The device may transition between an expanded configuration for use and a collapsed configuration for storage.

[0009] In some embodiments, an inlet or recessed cavity houses a fastening device (e.g., a magnet) and / or a corresponding fastening mate (e.g., a ferromagnetic disc). The fastening device may (i) assist retention of a device in the collapsed configuration and / or (ii) releasably couple together the two collapsible, generally triangular devices of the paired set (i.e., one for each foot) while collapsed for storage and transport. For example, the fastening device may be provided on a first device and the fastening mate may be provided on a second device to fasten the pair together.

[0010] In some embodiments, non-slip material (e.g., rubber strips, elastomeric pads, or grip tape) may be provided on one or more foot-contacting and / or floor-contacting surfaces of the legs and / or panels to reduce slipping in use and improve stability.

[0011] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following specification and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments and, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a top / perspective view of a portable toilet assistance device in an expanded configuration.

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a top / perspective view of an alternative portable toilet assistance device embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom / perspective view of an example portable toilet assistance device.

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates an example pair of portable toilet assistance devices coupled together in a collapsed configuration.

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates an example method of using a portable toilet assistance device.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting; rather, they illustrate principles of the invention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0019] In general, the disclosed portable toilet assistance device is a compact, foldable structure configured to support a user’s foot while the user is seated on a toilet. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device is provided as a paired set of two substantially identical devices, with a first device positioned beneath a first foot and a second device positioned beneath a second foot.

[0020] Structural overview (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, a first portable toilet assistance device 100 includes a first leg 101 and a second leg 102 pivotably coupled by a hinge 103 (e.g., a bi-folding hinge). The device 100 further includes a first panel 104 and a second panel 105 coupled by a panel hinge 106. The first panel 104 is pivotably coupled to the first leg 101 by a hinge 107, and the second panel 105 is pivotably coupled to the second leg 102 by a hinge 108.

[0021] Expanded configuration. In an expanded configuration, the panels 104, 105 are unfolded and cooperate to form a third support member (or “third leg”) 105a such that the device 100 forms a generally triangular support structure for receiving a user’s foot. A top surface of the first leg 101, a top surface of the second leg 102, and a top surface of the third support member 105a may collectively define a foot-support platform.

[0022] Collapsed configuration. In a collapsed configuration, the panels 104, 105 may fold inwardly about the hinges 107, 108 and panel hinge 106 such that the device 100 assumes a compact, generally rectangular profile (FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the collapsed profile is sized to fit in a pocket of a user’s clothing or a small bag.

[0023] Fastening device / inlet. In some embodiments, one or more inlets, recesses, apertures, or cavities (collectively, “inlets”) are provided on one or more surfaces of the device 100. For example, a first inlet 109 may be disposed on a surface of the first leg 101 and / or on a surface of one of the panels 104, 105. A corresponding metal inlet, disc, or fastening mate may be provided (e.g., adjacent a hinge location such as at 108), such that a fastening device housed by the inlet 109 may magnetically couple to the fastening mate.

[0024] In one implementation, the fastening device comprises a disc-shaped magnet configured to couple to a ferromagnetic disc or plate. In a paired set (e.g., the two collapsible devices used under a user’s left and right feet), a first device may house the disc-shaped magnet and a second device may house the ferromagnetic disc or plate such that the first device and the second device are configured to magnetically couple together while collapsed (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4), thereby fastening the pair together for storage and transport. The magnet and / or the ferromagnetic disc may be seated in a recessed cavity such that an outer face of the magnet / disc is flush or substantially flush with an outer surface of the leg and / or panel. This configuration can reduce snagging and can improve comfort and handling during pocket storage.

[0025] Collapsed-state assist. In some embodiments, the fastening device is configured to assist a device while in the collapsed configuration. For example, the fastening device may help retain the device 100 in the collapsed configuration by resisting unintended unfolding. In addition or alternatively, the fastening device may couple a first device to a second device of the paired set while both devices are in the collapsed configuration, thereby fastening the pair together and forming a combined compact package for storage and transport.

[0026] Non-slip material. In some embodiments, non-slip material (e.g., rubber, elastomeric strips, or grip tape) may be disposed on one or more surfaces configured to contact the floor and / or configured to support a user’s foot. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, non-slip strips 110 and / or 111 may be disposed on the third support member 105a and / or on one or more portions of the first leg 101 and / or second leg 102 to increase traction and reduce slipping during use. The non-slip material may also provide improved stability on smooth flooring surfaces.

[0027] Dimensions. In some embodiments, each device has an overall length in a collapsed state of approximately 6 inches and an overall width of approximately 3 inches (e.g., about 1.5 inches per folded panel), although other dimensions may be used.

[0028] Method of use (FIG. 5). A method of using a portable toilet assistance device may include providing at least two devices as a paired set, unfolding the devices from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration, placing the devices on a floor adjacent a toilet, and positioning a user’s feet on the respective devices while the user is seated on the toilet. After use, the user may collapse the devices and couple together the two devices of the paired set while collapsed (e.g., via a magnetic fastening device and fastening mate) for storage.

[0029] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting; rather, they illustrate principles of the invention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0019]In general, the disclosed portable toilet assistance device is a compact, foldable structure configured to support a user’s foot while the user is seated on a toilet. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device is provided as a paired set of two substantially identical devices, with a first device positioned beneath a first foot and a second device positioned beneath a second foot.

[0020]Structural overview (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, a first portable toilet assistance device 100 includes a first leg 101 and a second leg 102 pivotably coupled by a hinge 103 (e.g., a bi-folding hinge). The device 100 further includes ...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 18 / 100,341, filed January 23, 2023, titled “PORTABLE TOILET ASSISTANCE DEVICE” (the “Parent Application”). The disclosure of the Parent Application is incorporated herein by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the disclosure of this application. This continuation-in-part application further includes additional subject matter directed to improved retention and coupling features while the device is in a collapsed state, and related structural refinements.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.FIELD

[0003] This disclosure relates to toilet assistance devices. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a portable, foldable toilet assistance device configured to improve user posture during toileting and to be compact for storage and transport.BACKGROUND

[0004] Toilet assistance devices are known in the art, including stools and foot supports that may be used to elevate a user’s feet while seated on a toilet. Conventional devices may be bulky, unstable, difficult to sanitize, or inconvenient to carry when traveling or using public restroom facilities.

[0005] By way of example, the prior art includes, without limitation, U.S. Patent No. 6,889,393; U.S. Publication No. 2013 / 0086737; U.S. Publication No. 2016 / 0309970; and U.S. Publication No. 2020 / 0245829.

[0006] Accordingly, there remains a need for a portable toilet assistance device that is compact, foldable, stable in use, and convenient for storage and transport, including in a pocket or small bag.SUMMARY

[0007] A collapsible toilet stool is disclosed, which may take the form of a portable toilet assistance device. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device comprises two collapsible, generally triangular elements configured to be used as a pair, one under each foot, to assist with a more ergonomic posture during use of a toilet.

[0008] In some embodiments, each portable toilet assistance device includes a first leg, a second leg, and first and second panels that cooperate to form a third support member (or “third leg”) when unfolded. The device may transition between an expanded configuration for use and a collapsed configuration for storage.

[0009] In some embodiments, an inlet or recessed cavity houses a fastening device (e.g., a magnet) and / or a corresponding fastening mate (e.g., a ferromagnetic disc). The fastening device may (i) assist retention of a device in the collapsed configuration and / or (ii) releasably couple together the two collapsible, generally triangular devices of the paired set (i.e., one for each foot) while collapsed for storage and transport. For example, the fastening device may be provided on a first device and the fastening mate may be provided on a second device to fasten the pair together.

[0010] In some embodiments, non-slip material (e.g., rubber strips, elastomeric pads, or grip tape) may be provided on one or more foot-contacting and / or floor-contacting surfaces of the legs and / or panels to reduce slipping in use and improve stability.

[0011] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following specification and claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments and, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a top / perspective view of a portable toilet assistance device in an expanded configuration.

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a top / perspective view of an alternative portable toilet assistance device embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom / perspective view of an example portable toilet assistance device.

[0016] FIG. 4 illustrates an example pair of portable toilet assistance devices coupled together in a collapsed configuration.

[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates an example method of using a portable toilet assistance device.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting; rather, they illustrate principles of the invention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0019] In general, the disclosed portable toilet assistance device is a compact, foldable structure configured to support a user’s foot while the user is seated on a toilet. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device is provided as a paired set of two substantially identical devices, with a first device positioned beneath a first foot and a second device positioned beneath a second foot.

[0020] Structural overview (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, a first portable toilet assistance device 100 includes a first leg 101 and a second leg 102 pivotably coupled by a hinge 103 (e.g., a bi-folding hinge). The device 100 further includes a first panel 104 and a second panel 105 coupled by a panel hinge 106. The first panel 104 is pivotably coupled to the first leg 101 by a hinge 107, and the second panel 105 is pivotably coupled to the second leg 102 by a hinge 108.

[0021] Expanded configuration. In an expanded configuration, the panels 104, 105 are unfolded and cooperate to form a third support member (or “third leg”) 105a such that the device 100 forms a generally triangular support structure for receiving a user’s foot. A top surface of the first leg 101, a top surface of the second leg 102, and a top surface of the third support member 105a may collectively define a foot-support platform.

[0022] Collapsed configuration. In a collapsed configuration, the panels 104, 105 may fold inwardly about the hinges 107, 108 and panel hinge 106 such that the device 100 assumes a compact, generally rectangular profile (FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the collapsed profile is sized to fit in a pocket of a user’s clothing or a small bag.

[0023] Fastening device / inlet. In some embodiments, one or more inlets, recesses, apertures, or cavities (collectively, “inlets”) are provided on one or more surfaces of the device 100. For example, a first inlet 109 may be disposed on a surface of the first leg 101 and / or on a surface of one of the panels 104, 105. A corresponding metal inlet, disc, or fastening mate may be provided (e.g., adjacent a hinge location such as at 108), such that a fastening device housed by the inlet 109 may magnetically couple to the fastening mate.

[0024] In one implementation, the fastening device comprises a disc-shaped magnet configured to couple to a ferromagnetic disc or plate. In a paired set (e.g., the two collapsible devices used under a user’s left and right feet), a first device may house the disc-shaped magnet and a second device may house the ferromagnetic disc or plate such that the first device and the second device are configured to magnetically couple together while collapsed (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4), thereby fastening the pair together for storage and transport. The magnet and / or the ferromagnetic disc may be seated in a recessed cavity such that an outer face of the magnet / disc is flush or substantially flush with an outer surface of the leg and / or panel. This configuration can reduce snagging and can improve comfort and handling during pocket storage.

[0025] Collapsed-state assist. In some embodiments, the fastening device is configured to assist a device while in the collapsed configuration. For example, the fastening device may help retain the device 100 in the collapsed configuration by resisting unintended unfolding. In addition or alternatively, the fastening device may couple a first device to a second device of the paired set while both devices are in the collapsed configuration, thereby fastening the pair together and forming a combined compact package for storage and transport.

[0026] Non-slip material. In some embodiments, non-slip material (e.g., rubber, elastomeric strips, or grip tape) may be disposed on one or more surfaces configured to contact the floor and / or configured to support a user’s foot. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, non-slip strips 110 and / or 111 may be disposed on the third support member 105a and / or on one or more portions of the first leg 101 and / or second leg 102 to increase traction and reduce slipping during use. The non-slip material may also provide improved stability on smooth flooring surfaces.

[0027] Dimensions. In some embodiments, each device has an overall length in a collapsed state of approximately 6 inches and an overall width of approximately 3 inches (e.g., about 1.5 inches per folded panel), although other dimensions may be used.

[0028] Method of use (FIG. 5). A method of using a portable toilet assistance device may include providing at least two devices as a paired set, unfolding the devices from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration, placing the devices on a floor adjacent a toilet, and positioning a user’s feet on the respective devices while the user is seated on the toilet. After use, the user may collapse the devices and couple together the two devices of the paired set while collapsed (e.g., via a magnetic fastening device and fastening mate) for storage.

[0029] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0018]Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting; rather, they illustrate principles of the invention. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0019]In general, the disclosed portable toilet assistance device is a compact, foldable structure configured to support a user’s foot while the user is seated on a toilet. In some embodiments, the portable toilet assistance device is provided as a paired set of two substantially identical devices, with a first device positioned beneath a first foot and a second device positioned beneath a second foot.

[0020]Structural overview (FIG. 1). In one embodiment, a first portable toilet assistance device 100 includes a first leg 101 and a second leg 102 pivotably coupled by a hinge 103 (e.g., a bi-folding hinge). The device 100 further includes ...

Claims

1. A portable toilet assistance device for supporting feet of a user seated on a toilet, comprising: a first leg; a second leg; a leg hinge pivotably coupling the first leg to the second leg; a first panel; a second panel; a first leg-panel hinge pivotably coupling the first leg to the first panel; a second leg-panel hinge pivotably coupling the second leg to the second panel; a panel hinge pivotably coupling the first panel to the second panel; and at least one inlet positioned on a surface of at least one of the first leg, the second leg, the first panel, or the second panel, the at least one inlet configured to house a fastening device; wherein the first panel and the second panel are unfolded from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration such that the first panel and the second panel cooperate to form a third support member; and wherein the fastening device is configured to releasably engage a fastening mate to assist retention of the portable toilet assistance device in the collapsed configuration, and wherein the fastening mate is disposed on the portable toilet assistance device or on a second portable toilet assistance device.

2. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the fastening device comprises a magnet.

3. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein a first inlet is positioned on a surface of the first leg and a second inlet is positioned on a surface of the second leg.

4. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 2, wherein the magnet is disc-shaped and seated within a recessed cavity such that an outer face of the magnet is flush or substantially flush with an outer surface of the portable toilet assistance device.

5. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, further comprising a non-slip material disposed upon (i) a surface configured to receive a user’s foot and / or (ii) a surface configured to contact a floor, wherein the non-slip material prevents movement of the portable toilet assistance device when set on the floor.

6. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 5, wherein the non-slip material is a rubber material.

7. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the first panel and the second panel are configured to fold up inwardly via the pivotable hinge against the first leg and the second leg, respectively.

8. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the portable toilet assistance device is configured to allow a user to place one foot upon a surface of the first leg and a surface of the second leg of the portable toilet assistance device and a second foot upon a surface of a first leg and a surface of a second leg of the second portable toilet assistance device.

9. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the portable toilet assistance device is configured to form a triangular shape when in the expanded configuration.

10. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the portable toilet assistance device is configured to fit within a pocket of a user’s clothing when in the collapsed state.

11. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the fastening device is configured to assist retention of the portable toilet assistance device while in the collapsed state by resisting unintended unfolding.

12. The portable toilet assistance device of claim 1, wherein the fastening device is configured to magnetically couple the portable toilet assistance device to the second portable toilet assistance device while both devices are in the collapsed state.

13. A method of using portable toilet assistance devices, the method comprising: providing at least two portable toilet assistance devices, each comprising collapsible legs, a collapsible first panel, and a collapsible second panel, each portable toilet assistance device configured as a triangular shape when placed on a floor in an expanded configuration; unfolding the at least two portable toilet assistance devices from a collapsed configuration to the expanded configuration by pivoting the collapsible legs, the collapsible first panel, and the collapsible second panel; placing, by a user, the user’s feet on the at least two portable toilet assistance devices while the user is seated on a toilet; and collapsing the collapsible legs, the collapsible first panel, and the collapsible second panel of the at least two portable toilet assistance devices when the user is finished using the toilet.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising magnetically coupling the at least two portable toilet assistance devices together after collapsing.

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