Wheeled commode chair and base frame assembly therefor

Abstract

A base frame assembly for a selectively adjustable wheeled commode having: a front end portion, a rear end portion and connecting side portions, each of the portions being adjustable to allow selection of a predetermined width and depth; seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear end portions for receiving a seat thereon; a pair of mounting plates located on opposite sides of the base frame assembly adjacent seat receiving mounts adjacent the rear end portion; the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame; wherein the end portions and the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly and arm rests are selectively adjustable to suit a range of users.

Description

WHEELED COMMODE CHAIR AND BASE FRAME ASSEMBLY THEREFORField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a wheeled commode chair and base frame assembly therefor, for facilitating use of toilet facilities or chamber pots asrequired by disabled, aged, injured or infirm users.

[0002] The invention relates particularly to a mobile shower commode that is adjustable to suit a range of users of differing heights, weights and capabilities, for aiding transport and improving lifestyle and quality of life and independence of the users. However, it is not limited to that use.

[0003] The invention has been developed primarily for use in / with a wheeled commode chair enabling multiple uses for a range of users to allow improved independence and ability to perform complex procedures and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.Background of the Invention

[0004] Commodes are traditionally understood as heavy chairs having a seated arrangement incorporating a built-in toileting bowl. In one condition, the commode can be used as a conventional seat and in another condition the commode can operate as a toileting facility.

[0005] Commodes, in general, are used to assist persons who are, for example, elderly, infirm, have a disability, or are in rehabilitation in meeting basic toiletry needs. Following toileting use of the commode, assistance is required to remove the toileting bowl, dispose of contents and clean and replace for ongoing use.

[0006] More recently there has been an emphasis placed on portability and improving user independence. This has led to lighter commode frames which can be more readily lifted and relocated so that it can be for example placed either near a bed to assist transfer of a user, or over an existing toilet. Such commodes have been fabricated from light-weight hollow or tubular material such as steel, aluminium, etc., and act as a safetyframe keeping a user from falling to either side when placed over a conventional toilet. Conventional commode designs have four legs in contact with the ground to provide stability, and yet are sufficiently light weight for ease of use and portability. It is usual to mount rubber tips to the ends of the legs to resist slipping and undesired movement.

[0007] Improvements in portability have also included collapsible or foldable frames which can be easily stored for transport, and addition of castor wheels to allow a degree of freedom of movement for a user to improve independence.

[0008] Some attempts have been made to introduce relatively larger rear wheels in a commode to improve control and movement by a user. However, such attempts do not easily allow for (a) placement over a conventional toilet, (b) collapsibility or foldability for easy transport or storage, and (c) tailoring for different users.

[0009] A major problem confronted by aged care facilities and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) providers, is that a single commode is generally only suitable for a person of particular size, weight and incapacity. In essence, an aged care facility needs to provide multiple commodes at a time, with commensurate expense, to accommodate a range of users of varying sizes. Traditionally therefore, mobile shower commodes often become obsolete and are discarded when no longer suitable for a user, leading to unnecessary waste.

[0010] In addition to the foregoing problems, users of mobile shower commodes, particularly those with complex needs (due to injury, spinal conditions, acquired brain injury, etc.), require specific depth and width configurations to provide adequate support.

[0011] A mobile shower commode poses a unique set of challenges compared to a wheelchair for example. Some of these challenges include:• providing sufficient space so that care tasks can be performed;• ability to easily position over a conventional toilet;• adjustability to suit a range of users while ensuring stability, durability, and ease of use;allowing ready emptying of a toilet panContribution to the Circular Economy and Sustainable Medical EquipmentPractices enabling reusability without compromising functionality

[0012] The present invention seeks to provide an improved commode, which will overcome or ameliorate at least one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0013] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.Summary of Invention

[0014] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a base frame assembly for a selectively adjustable wheeled commode having: a front end portion, a rear end portion and connecting side portions, each of the portions being adjustable to allow selection of a predetermined width and depth; seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear ends for receiving a seat thereon; a pair of mounting plates located on opposite sides of the base frame assembly adjacent the seat receiving mounts adjacent the rear end portion; the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame or the seat receiving mounts; wherein the front and rear end portions and the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly and arm rests are selectively adjustable to suit a range of users.

[0015] The present invention represents a significant improvement over the prior art by offering a universally adjustable commode chair assembly capable of accommodating users of varying sizes, shapes, and functional needs. This innovative high level of adaptability means that a single base frame assembly can be reconfigured to suit a broad spectrum of users, effectively eliminating the need for multiple, size-specific commodes. For aged care facilities, NDIS providers, and other funding bodies, this translates into a cost-effective and resource-conscious solution that improves operational efficiency and equipment utilisation.

[0016] The base frame assembly can further include an axle mounting sleeve on the connecting side portions thereof at or near the rear end portion, the axle mounting sleeve adapted to receive an axle mounting plate in a select location on either side ofthe base frame assembly.

[0017] The axle mounting sleeve(s) can include a plurality of locating mounting positions spaced apart therealong for selectively receiving the respective axle mounting plate in a location so as to mount rear wheels on the base frame to position the wheels along the connecting side portions of the base frame to suit a user of a given size. The axle mounting sleeves gives the base frame assembly additional degrees of freedom to further improve selective adjustability including effective range of positioning of large rear wheels along the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly.

[0018] The axle mounting plates can include multiple vertically spaced apart location mounts for selectively receiving a large rear wheel at a desired height relative to the base frame. The location mounts on the axle mounting plates allow relative raising or lowering of the seat support mounts. In essence, a seat received on the seat receiving (support) mounts can be raised or lowered relative to the ground by altering the location of the wheel on the axle mounting plate by using a select location mount.

[0019] In addition, the axle mounting plate can be selectively adjusted horizontally along the axle mounting sleeve so the positioning of the seat and wheels can be adjusted to suit the physical size of a particular user. The axle mounting plates can also be mounted on the side portion aft of the rear end portion. This ability to mount a large rear wheel behind the rear portion of the frame assembly is advantageous for amputees.

[0020] The connecting side portions of the base frame assembly can each include a rear post and a front upright member; the post and upright member being interconnected by spaced apart horizontally extending parallel members. The spaced apart horizontally extending parallel members can be adjustable to enable selecting a predetermined depth of the base frame assembly. In one embodiment the axle mounting sleeve(s) for receiving enlarged rear wheels is located on one of the spaced parallel horizontally extending members, preferably a lower one of the spaced apart members.

[0021] In one embodiment the front end portion and the rear end portion of the base frame assembly can include a cross member interconnecting the oppositely disposed connecting side portions, wherein the rear cross member and front cross member are offset such that the rear cross member is located higher than the front cross member.This offset relation between the front and rear ends of the base frame assembly allows reversing over a conventional toilet and improved access from the front end. The cross members are adjustable to alter the width of the base frame assembly.

[0022] The rear post of each of the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly can include a back frame receiving mount for receiving a back frame for supporting the user and a handle to allow pushing operating by a third person. The back frame can be adjustably received by the back frame receiving mounts to selectively adjust height of the back frame relative to the base frame assembly. The back frame can be telescopically received by the back frame receiving mounts. The back frame can further include one or more joints which allows for angular adjustment of the back frame relative to the rear of the base frame assembly to suit a person pushing the wheeled commode and disassembly of the back frame and handle.

[0023] The base frame assembly can further include a toilet pivot mount assembly including a toilet pivot mount which can be pivotally mounted on a connecting side portion or rear portion of the base frame assembly. The toilet pivot mount is preferably pivotally mounted to a rear seat receiving mount (support) near the rear end portion of the base frame assembly, wherein the toilet pivot mount provides pivotable movement between a toileting pan in use condition and toileting pan removal condition.

[0024] The toilet pivot mount can include a locating mount having a plurality of locating positions for receiving a toileting pan holder in a predetermined position. The toileting pan holder can include a toilet pan receiving structure supported by a swing arm. Preferably the swing arm is adapted to be received at one end, distal to the toilet pan receiving structure, in a select one of the locating positions of the locating mount, and the toilet pan receiving structure is configured to receive a toilet pan whereby the toilet pan can be suspended beneath the seat receiving mounts (supports) in an in-use condition and moved by combined action of the swing arm and pivot mount from an in use position through the rear end portion for removal and replacement.

[0025] The toileting pan receiving structure and the toilet pan can include releasable complimentary engagement means. The toileting pan receiving structure can include a substantially rigid collar adapted to engage an annular recess provided in the toilet pan to support the toilet pan in a suspended condition beneath the seat supports and fordisposal by removal therefrom.

[0026] The toilet pivot mount can pivotally move the toilet pan by the toileting pan holder from an in-use position underneath the seat receiving mounts, through the open rear end portion of the base frame assembly to a location external of the base frame assembly. In the external location, the toilet pan can be removed from the toilet pan holder, emptied and replaced and readily repositioned beneath the seat receiving mounts for use. This represents an improvement over the prior art wheeled commodes because the toilet pan adjustment is needed when the base frame assembly is reconfigured for multiple users.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the pivot mount 33 can include a two-part structure having a first part mounted to the rear seat receiving mount, and a second part interconnected to the first part and the second part biased to a first position relative to the first part by a biasing structure such as a spring, wherein the second part is configured to dislocate from the first part in a vertical direction against the bias when the toileting pan holder moves between in-use and removal positions relative to the base frame assembly. In this embodiment the locating mount can be mounted on the second part of the two part structure and when dislocation occurs the second part is raised and lowered and consequently the toilet pan holder moves up and down as the toilet pan holder pivotally moves between an in use position and an external position for removal and replacement.

[0028] During pivoting movement of the two-part pivot mount structure, dislocation causes vertical movement of one part against the bias structure and during this motion the swinging arm is also displaced vertically with displacement of the locating mount so that the swing arm and toileting pan move upwardly and outwardly for easy removal and when pivoting back to a suspended position in use within the frame assembly and under the seat supports, the two part structure relocates as the pan returns to the in use position.

[0029] The base frame assembly can further include a fifth wheel mounted to a locating portion of the mounting plate, wherein the fifth wheel is adapted to move between a storage position and an in-use position to stabilise the frame assembly and substantially prevent from tipping over.

[0030] The base frame assembly can further include a brake mechanism slidably mounted on one of the pair of spaced parallel horizontally extending members, preferably the upper, wherein the brake mechanism includes a brake arm which can be moved into or away from a braking position by slidable movement along the horizontal cross member.

[0031] The base frame assembly can further include footplate supports. In particular, the base frame assembly can include foot support mounts on front uprights of opposing side portions to allow swingable mounting attachment of the foot support plates. The foot plates can also be pivotally mounted on footplate supports.

[0032] In a related embodiment, there is provided a base frame assembly for a selectively adjustable wheeled commode having: a front end portion, a rear end portion and connecting side portions, each of the end portions and side portions being adjustable to allow selection of a predetermined width and depth; seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear end portions for receiving a seat thereon; a pair of mounting plates located on side portions of the base frame assembly adjacent seat receiving mounts located at the rear end portion; the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame; an axle mounting sleeve on opposite side portions adjacent the rear end portion for selectively laterally locating an axle mounting plate therealong, wherein the axle mounting plate(s) includes vertically spaced apart location mounts for selectively receiving a large rear wheel at a desired height relative to the base frame, wherein the location mounts on the axle mounting plate(s) allow select fitting of large rear wheels and relative raising or lowering of the seat support mounts to suit a range of users.

[0033] In a further related embodiment, there is provided a wheeled commode chair including: a base frame assembly comprising: a front end, a rear end and connecting side portions, the end portions and side portions being collectively adjustable in three dimensions; seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear ends; a pair of mounting plates located on opposite sides of the base frame assembly adjacent seat receiving mounts at the rear end; the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame; wherein the base frame assembly and arm rests areselectively adjustable to a predetermined dimension to suit a user; wheels on the front end and rear end; a toilet pivot mount located on a rear portion of the frame assembly including a locating mount having a plurality of select locating positions for receiving a toileting pan holder, wherein the toileting pan holder is adapted to receive a toilet pan and wherein the toilet pan is moveable between an in use position within the frame and assembly beneath the seat supports and a removal / disposal position external of the rear end portion; wherein the base frame assembly is adjustable to suit a range of users.

[0034] The wheeled commode can include castor wheels or large rear wheels.

[0035] Benefits of the wheeled commode and frame assembly include:

[0036] Improved degrees of freedom to adjust and select a predetermined size arrangement for a user;

[0037] The base frame assembly can be adjusted to suit a range of users so that an Aged Care facility for example can purchase a single chair that can be selectively adjusted;

[0038] The ability to reassign and repurpose the same commode unit for different users not only supports longevity of use but also contributes to a more sustainable model of care by aligning with circular economy principles — minimising waste, extending product life cycles, and reducing the environmental footprint of healthcare equipment.

[0039] The base frame assembly allows a wheeled commode to reverse over a conventional toilet;

[0040] The toilet pan can be easily transferred from under the seat to a location external of the rear end of the base frame assembly for removal, disposal and replacement and return;

[0041] The location of the toilet pan can be adjusted by select location of the toilet pan holder to the toilet pan pivot mount.

[0042] The open rear end of the base frame assembly allows improved access to toileting pan beneath the seat;

[0043] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed with reference to accompanying drawings and examples.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0044] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0045] Fig. 1 is a photograph of a wheeled commode chair in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Fig. 2 is a photograph of a base frame assembly used in the device of figure 1 in operation, in an overhead plan view;

[0047] Fig. 3 is a photograph of the base frame assembly of figure 2, in an angled overhead view;

[0048] Fig. 4 is a photograph of the base frame assembly of figure 2 from a rear view;

[0049] Fig. 5 is a photograph of the base frame assembly of figure 2 from a first side;

[0050] Fig. 6 is a photograph of the base frame assembly of figure 2 from a second side;

[0051] Fig. 7 is a photograph of the back frame of the base frame assembly of figure 2 in a folded condition;

[0052] Fig. 8 is a photograph of assembly of the back frame and base frame;

[0053] Fig. 9 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with back frame, handle and toileting facility;

[0054] Fig. 10 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with close up view of toileting facility of the base frame assembly in a side elevation;

[0055] Fig. 11 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with close up view of toileting facility according to Fig. 10 from a first side view;

[0056] Fig. 12 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with close up view of toileting facility according to Fig. 10 from a front view;

[0057] Fig. 13 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with close up view of toileting facility according to Fig. 10 from a rear view;

[0058] Fig. 14 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with close up view of toiletingfacility according to Fig. 11 from the opposite side view;

[0059] Fig. 15 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with view of toileting facility in operation - the toilet pan being inserted within the frame assembly beneath the seat mounts by pivoting toileting pan mounts;

[0060] Fig. 16 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with view of toileting facility in operation as per Fig. 15 being further inserted;

[0061] Fig. 17 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with view of toileting facility in operation as per Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 fully inserted suspended beneath the seat supports;

[0062] Fig. 18 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with view of toileting facility in operation being moved away from the suspended position in Fig. 16 to the rear end of the base frame assembly;

[0063] Fig. 19 is a photograph of the base frame assembly with view of toileting facility in operation being external of the rear end of the base frame assembly and toilet pan being removed;

[0064] Fig. 20 is a close-up photographic view of a toileting pan pivot mount structure;

[0065] Fig. 21 is a close-up photographic view of the toileting pan pivot mount structure of Fig. 20 in operation;

[0066] Fig. 22 is a close-up photographic view of the toileting pan pivot mount structure of Fig. 21 in operation moving the toileting support to a position where the toilet pan is moving away from an in-use condition to a removal / disposal condition;

[0067] Fig. 23 is a close-up photographic view of the toileting pan pivot mount structure of Fig. 21 in operation moving the toileting support from an external position towards an in use condition;

[0068] Fig. 24 is a close-up photographic view of the toileting pan pivot mount structure of Fig. 23 in operation moved to a suspended in use position within the base frame assembly;

[0069] Fig. 25 is a close-up photographic view of an axle mounting sleeve and an axle mount of the base frame assembly;

[0070] Fig. 26 is a close up photographic view of a sliding brake mechanism mounted on a side portion for braking the wheel;

[0071] Fig. 27 is a close-up photographic view of the mounting plate of the base frame assembly with arm rest;

[0072] Fig. 28 is a fuller photographic view of the mounting plate of the base frame assembly with arm rest of Fig. 27.Detailed Described of the Preferred Embodiments

[0073] The present description is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments of the disclosure herein.

[0074] Figure 1 shows a selectively adjustable wheeled commode chair 1 including a base frame assembly 5 in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. The base frame assembly of the invention provides the wheeled commode with improved degrees of freedom to adjust and select a predetermined size arrangement to suit a range of users.

[0075] Referring to figures 2 to 6, the base frame assembly 5 of the invention comprises a front end 6 and a rear end 7 adjustable laterally for width, and connecting side portions 8, 9 adjustable longitudinally for depth. The base frame assembly 5 further includes seat receiving mounts 10, 11, 12, 13 extending from and located adjacent to the front and rear ends, and a pair of mounting plates 14, 15 located on opposite sides of the base frame assembly adjacent the seat receiving mounts 12 and 13 at the rear end 7. As shown in figures 5, 9 and 11 , the mounting plates include multiple locating portions being holes 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, formed in the mounting plates, which in combination with the side portions and front and rear portions, allow selective adjustment of the frame assembly in three dimensions.

[0076] In one embodiment shown (best seen in figures 1 and 28), the base frame assembly can further include height adjustable armrests 40 of generally inverted u-shape having a cushioned upper 40a with one end suspended and one end connected to the mounting plates 14, 15. The armrests are provided in the wheeled commode byattachment of one end to a select one of the locating portions 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, in the mounting plates to allow positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame. In this way, the base frame assembly can be selectively adjustable in multiple degrees of freedom to suit a range of users. In one embodiment, the height of the armrests can be finely adjusted relative to the locating portions.

[0077] Referring to figures 2, 4, 13 and 14, the side portions 8, 9 of the base frame assembly comprise rear posts 17a, 17b, and front upright members 17c, 17d; the posts and uprights are interconnected by spaced apart horizontally extending parallel bars 18 (upper) and 19 (lower). The rear posts 17a and 17b are interconnected at the rear end of the base frame assembly by a single cross-member 20, and the front uprights are interconnected at the front end of the base frame assembly by a single cross-member 21. Figures 4 to 6 show the cross-members 20 and 21 are offset to each other where the rear cross-member 20 is higher than front cross-member 21. This arrangement allows for the rear end to be reversed over a conventional toileting facility and greater access to the frame assembly.

[0078] As shown in at least figures 5 to 13, the parallel bars 18 and 19 of the side portions 8 and 9, and the cross-members 20 and 21 at front and rear end respectively, are adapted to be adjustable so that the depth and width of the base frame assembly can be arranged to accommodate a particular size user. In the figures, adjustability of depth and width is achieved by telescopic means 22a, 22b and 23a, 23b respectively.

[0079] The rear posts 17a, 17b include a back frame receiving mount 28 for receiving a back frame 25 including a handle 26. The back frame further includes one or more knuckle joints 27a, 27b which allows for angular adjustment of the back frame relative to the rear of the base frame assembly to suit a person pushing the wheeled commode and disassembly of the back frame and handle. As seen in figures 1 and 8 the handle 26 includes telescopic adjustment 250 so that the width of the handle can be adjusted to accommodate variable select width of the frame. In one embodiment (not shown), the back frame can include a plurality of vertically spaced apart back straps which can be adjusted with adjustment of the width of the handle.

[0080] The back frame 25 can adjust in width and depth, ensuring continuous postural support regardless of the frame's settings. As the frame is adjusted to suit a particularuser, both the backrest straps and back frame are adapted to extend and retract to maintain consistent support, adapting to different configurations if required to ensure comfort and stability.

[0081] As best shown in figures 18, 19 and 25, the base frame assembly can further include an axle mounting sleeve 24a, 24b on opposite side portions of the frame assembly towards the rear end portion. As shown, the axle mounting sleeve(s) include a plurality of locating mounting positions 29 spaced apart therealong for selectively receiving the respective axle mounting plates 30. The axle mounting sleeves give the base frame assembly additional degrees of freedom to further improve selective adjustability including effective range of positioning of large rear wheels along the side portions of the base frame.

[0082] The axle mounting plates 30 also include multiple spaced apart location mounts 31a-31d for selectively receiving a large rear wheel at a desired height relative to the base frame. The location mounts on the axle mounting plates allow raising or lowering of the seat support mounts. As the height of the wheel axle increases between 31 a / 31 d and 31b and 31c, the level of the seat is lowered accordingly. The location of the axle mounting plate can if desired be reversed so effectively the seat height can be raised.

[0083] The plurality of mounting locations 29 on the mounting sleeve 24a, 24b means that the axle mounting plate can be laterally adjusted along the mounting sleeve. This structure allows for depth adjustment of the wheel locations as well as height adjustment of the seat. The base frame assembly can therefore be selectively adjusted in depth, in width, and in height allowing adjustments to suit the physical size of a particular user. As also shown in figure 25, the mounting sleeves in one embodiment extend along the side portion beyond (aft) the rear end portion. This allows for select positioning of the axle mounting plate in location 29a. This ability to mount a large rear wheel behind the rear portion of the frame assembly is advantageous for amputees.

[0084] Referring to figures 9 to 24, the base frame assembly further includes a toilet pivot mount assembly 32. The toilet pivot mount assembly includes a toilet pivot mount 33 pivotally mounted to a rear seat support near the rear end portion of the base frame assembly which is pivotable between a toileting pan in use condition (see fig. 14) and toileting pan removal condition (see fig. 15).

[0085] As shown, the toilet pivot assembly further includes a toilet pivot locating mount 34 attached to the toilet pivot mount 33. The toilet pivot locating mount 34 has multiple locating positions 34a to 34e, offering a selection of locations to receive a toilet pan holder 36.

[0086] The toilet pan holder 36 includes a toileting pan receiving structure 36a attached to one end of a swing arm 35 so that the toileting pan receiving structure is suspended on one end of the swing arm. The other end of the swing arm 35 is received in a select locating position (any of 34a to 34e) on the locating mount and the swing arm can swing between an in-use position suspending the toilet pan beneath the seat supports and a removal position where the toilet pan 37 is accessible external of the rear end portion of the base frame assembly, by the toilet pivot mount 33. The toileting pan receiving structure 36a in this embodiment is substantially circular and shaped to hold and support the corresponding circular toilet pan 37.

[0087] In one embodiment as shown, the toileting pan receiving structure 36a includes a substantially rigid collar adapted to engage an annular recess provided in the toilet pan 37 to support the toilet pan in a suspended condition beneath the seat supports and for disposal by removal therefrom.

[0088] In an operating condition of the toilet pivot assembly 32, the toilet pivot mount 33 pivots about its mounting attachment on the frame assembly. When pivoting action occurs, the swinging arm 35 is caused to move between an in-use position suspended within the frame assembly and beneath the seat supports to a removal / disposal position through the open rear end portion and external of the base frame assembly. Figures 14 to 19 show the transition between these positions. In a disposal condition (see figures 15 and 19), the toilet pan 37 can be removed, emptied and replaced and readily repositioned beneath the seat supports for use.

[0089] Figures 20 to 24 show further vertical transitional movement of the pivot mount 33 during pivoting motion starting from an in-use position. Referring to figure 21, the pivot mount assembly 32 comprises a static mount 32a mounted on seat receiving mount 13 at a rear end portion of the base frame assembly. Pivot mount 33 is shown as a two part structure comprising a first part 33a and a second part 33b; the static mount 32a and the first and second parts 33a and 33b are interconnected by a centrallylocated pin 32c and the first and second parts 33a and 33b of the pivot mount 33 are biased by a spring 32b to a closed position. The toilet pivot locating mount 34 is fixedly attached to the first part 33a of the pivot mount and in turn swing arm 35 of the toilet pan holder 36 is removably received in a select locating position (any of 34a to 34e) of the toilet pivot locating mount 34. In this embodiment, the first 33a pivots relative to the second part 33b and the first and second parts of the pivot mount 33 include a protuberance (not seen) and a mating shaped recess 33c respectively. As the first part 33a of the pivot mount pivots about the second part 33b, the first and second parts dislocate in one pivot movement and the first part 33a is caused to move upwards against the spring. This in turn causes the upward movement of the locating mount 34 and swing arm and toilet pan holder during pivoting action. In a second pivoting movement, the protuberance (not seen) and a mating shaped recess 33c progressively engage causing downward movement of the locating mount 34 by the spring and corresponding downward movement of the swing arm and toilet pan holder during the second pivoting action.

[0090] As shown, as pivoting movement progresses, the pivot mount 33 dislocates in a vertical movement against the bias of a spring 32b. During this motion, the toilet pivot locating mount 34 and consequently the swinging arm 35 of the toilet pan holder is displaced upwardly by the dislocation and outwardly of the rear frame end portion by pivot movement so that the toileting pan 37 can be easily accessed, removed and replaced back and returned to a suspended position in use within the frame assembly and under the seat supports. On return to an in-use position the pivot mount 33 is urged back to a normal position by the spring bias.

[0091] The toilet pivot mount 33 allows secure select positioning of the toilet pan in an in-use condition, and a mechanism to swing the toilet pan away from the in-use position to a disposal position through the open rear end portion of the frame. The toilet pivot locating mount 34 on the toilet pivot mount 33 allows selective positioning of the pan regardless of the width of the frame. The toilet pivot assembly ensures toilet pan clearance while allowing smooth integration of a removable toilet pan without needing additional adjustments. The pivoting movement allows positioning of the toilet pan to any frame width, offering seamless integration without compromising stability or ease of use, making it easier for caregivers to position and remove the toilet pan. When thepan is pivoted to a disposal position rearward of the frame assembly, this improves caregiver efficiency by providing unobstructed access for maintenance and hygiene procedures.

[0092] Referring to figures 1 and 26 to 28, the base frame assembly further includes a brake mechanism 38 slidably mounted on one of the pair of spaced parallel horizontally extending members, preferably the upper, wherein the brake mechanism includes a brake arm 39 which can be moved into or away from a braking position by slidable movement along the horizontal cross member 18 of the side portion.

[0093] Referring to figures 1 and 26 to 28, the base frame assembly further includes a fifth wheel 42 mounted to a locating portion 43 or 44 of the mounting plate 14 (see figure 11), wherein the fifth wheel is adapted to move between a storage position and an in-use position to stabilise the frame assembly and substantially prevent from tipping over.

[0094] The base frame assembly can further include footplate supports 45. In particular, the base frame assembly include foot support mounts 46 on front uprights of opposing side portions to allow swingable mounting attachment of the foot support plates 47. The foot plates can also be pivotally mounted on footplate supports.

[0095] The commode chair of the present invention offers clear advantages to equipment distributors and suppliers, as fewer variations in product sizes are required. This leads to reduced inventory levels, simplified stock management, and increased responsiveness to urgent or variable client needs.

[0096] The ability to reassign and repurpose the same commode unit for different users not only supports longevity of use but also contributes to a more sustainable model of care by aligning with circular economy principles — minimising waste, extending product life cycles, and reducing the environmental footprint of healthcare equipment.

[0097] Benefits of the system include that:a. Improved degrees of freedom to adjust and select a predetermined size arrangement for a user;b. armrests are adjustable in length, allowing for depth adjustment on the shower commode;c. The base frame assembly can be adjusted to suit a range of users so that an Aged Care facility for example can purchase a single chair that can be selectively adjusted;d. The base frame assembly allows a wheeled commode to reverse over and clear a conventional toilet;e. The toilet pan can be easily transferred from under the seat to a location external of the rear end of the base frame assembly for removal, disposal and replacement and return;f. The location of the toilet pan can be adjusted by select location of the toilet pan holder to the toilet pan pivot mount.g. The open rear end of the base frame assembly allows improved access to toileting pan beneath the seat;h. The bedpan is removable and does not compromise stability or functionality, and provides adjustments as the commode adjusts in width and depth;i. front, back and side openings ensure that care tasks are able to be performed, without compromising on the stability of the configuration or the weight bearing capacity of the commode;j. The back frame push handle is adjustable, allowing for width adjustment on the shower commode and backstraps also adjustable with width changes.Interpretation

[0098] Embodiments:

[0099] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment but may. Furthermore, the particular features,structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0100] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0101] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0102] Different Instances of Objects

[0103] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

[0104] Specific Details

[0105] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth.However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0106] Terminology

[0107] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0108] Comprising and Including

[0109] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0110] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

[0111] Scope of Invention

[0112] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be thepreferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0113] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

[0114] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments / applications only and is not intending to be limiting the invention or its application. The use of the terms ‘component’, 'contains',

[0115] 'containing', ‘comprise’ or ‘comprising’ specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations or components, but do not preclude the minor modification of individual components of the device to fulfil the same purpose, nor does it preclude the addition of features, steps, operations or components to enhance the application of this device in managing positive margins / inoperable tumours.

[0116] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those having ordinary skill in the area in which this invention belongs. Terms should be interpreted as having a meaning which is consistent to their dictionary definition, or as understood by a reasonable qualified person having an understanding of such concepts within the field of invention.Industrial Applicability

[0117] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the field of commode chairs for Aged Care.

Claims

Claims:The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A base frame assembly for a selectively adjustable wheeled commode having: a front end portion, a rear end portion and connecting side portions, each of the portions being adjustable to allow selection of a predetermined width and depth;seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear end portions for receiving a seat thereon;a pair of mounting plates located on opposite sides of the base frame assembly adjacent seat receiving mounts adjacent the rear end portion;the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame;wherein the end portions and the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly and arm rests are selectively adjustable to suit a range of users.

2. The base frame assembly of claim 1 further including an axle mounting sleeve on the connecting side portions at or near the rear end portion, wherein the axle mounting sleeve is adapted to receive an axle mounting plate in a predetermined location on either side of the base frame assembly for receiving rear wheels.

3. The base frame assembly of claim 2, wherein the axle mounting sleeve(s) includes a plurality of locating mounting positions spaced apart therealong for selectively receiving the respective axle mounting plate in a predetermined location to mount the rear wheels on the base frame and position the wheels along the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly to suit a user of a given size.

4. The base frame assembly of claim 2, wherein the axle mounting plates include multiple vertically spaced apart location mounts for selectively receiving a large rear wheel at a desired height relative to the base frame to allow relative raising or lowering of the seat support mounts.

5. The base frame assembly of claim 1 , wherein the connecting side portions of the base frame assembly each include a rear post and a front upright member; the rearpost and front upright member being interconnected by spaced apart horizontally extending parallel members.

6. The base frame assembly of claim 5, wherein the spaced apart horizontally extending parallel members are adjustable to enable selecting a predetermined depth of the base frame assembly.

7. The base frame assembly of claim 5, wherein the front-end portion and the rear- end portion of the base frame assembly include an adjustable cross member interconnecting with the connecting side portions, wherein the rear cross member and front cross member are offset such that the rear cross member is located higher than the front cross member.

8. The base frame assembly of claim 5, wherein the rear post of each side portion of the base frame assembly includes a back frame receiving mount for receiving a back frame for supporting the user and a handle to allow pushing operating by a third person.

9. The base frame assembly of claim 8, wherein the back frame is adjustably received by the back frame receiving mounts to selectively adjust height of the back frame relative to the base frame assembly.

10. The base frame assembly of claim 9, wherein the back frame is telescopically received by the back frame receiving mounts, and wherein the back frame further includes one or more joints which allows for angular adjustment of the back frame relative to the rear of the base frame assembly to suit a person pushing the wheeled commode and disassembly of the back frame and handle.

11. The base frame assembly of any one of the preceding claims further including a toilet pivot mount located on a rear portion of the base frame assembly which is pivotable between a toileting pan in use condition and toileting pan removal condition.

12. The base frame assembly of claim 11, wherein the toilet pivot mount includes a locating mount having a plurality of locating positions for receiving a toileting pan holder in a predetermined position.

13. The base frame assembly of claim 12, wherein the toileting pan holder is configured to receive a toilet pan whereby the toilet pan can be suspended beneath the seatsupports in an in use condition.

14. The base frame assembly of claim 13, wherein the toileting pan holder, and the toilet pan include releasable complimentary engagement means.

15. The base frame assembly of claim 14, wherein the toileting pan holder includes a substantially rigid collar adapted to engage an annular recess provided in the toilet pan to support the toilet pan in a suspended condition beneath the seat supports and for disposal by removal therefrom.

16. The base frame assembly of any one of the preceding claims further including a fifth wheel mounted to a locating portion of the mounting plate, wherein the fifth wheel is adapted to move between a storage position and an in use position to stabilise the frame assembly and substantially prevent from tipping over.

17. The base frame assembly of any one of the preceding claims further including a brake mechanism slidably mounted on one of the pair of spaced parallel horizontally extending members, preferably the upper, wherein the brake mechanism includes a brake arm which can be moved into or away from a braking position by slidable movement along the horizontal cross member.

18. The base frame assembly of any one of the preceding claims further including foot support mounts on front uprights of opposing side portions to allow swingable mounting attachment of foot support plates.

19. A base frame assembly for a selectively adjustable wheeled commode having: a front end portion, a rear end portion and connecting side portions, each of the end portions and side portions being adjustable to allow selection of a predetermined width and depth;seat receiving mounts adjacent front and rear end portions for receiving a seat thereon;a pair of mounting plates located on side portions of the base frame assembly adjacent seat receiving mounts located at the rear end portion;the mounting plates including multiple locating portions adapted to allow at least selective positioning of arm rests at a predetermined height for a user relative to the base frame;an axle mounting sleeve on opposite side portions adjacent the rear end portion for selectively laterally locating an axle mounting plate therealong, wherein the axle mounting plate(s) includes vertically spaced apart location mounts for selectively receiving a large rear wheel at a desired height relative to the base frame, wherein the location mounts on the axle mounting plate(s) allow select fitting of large rear wheels and relative raising or lowering of the seat support mounts to suit a range of users.

20. An adjustable base frame assembly of claim 19 further including a toilet pan pivot mount on a rear portion of the base frame assembly and a toileting pan holder attached to the pivot mount, the toileting pan holder being movable between an in use condition beneath the seat and a disposal position by the pivot mount rearwardly of the rear end of the base frame assembly.

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